bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The changing discourses on Islamophobia in the UK press: A modern-diachronic corpus-assisted study
Authors: Brookes Gavin , Curry Niall
Published: May 2024

This study presents a modern-diachronic corpus-assisted analysis of the discourses surrounding Islamophobia in the UK broadsheet press across four time points: 2005, 2010, 2013, and 2021. Our analysis is driven by two approaches to keyword analysis (analysing shared keywords across years, versus generating keywords by comparing annual datasets against each other directly). The findings reveal a nuanced evolution in the discursive representation of Islamophobia, marked initially by a focus on violence against Muslims, scepticism about the extent of Islamophobia in the UK, and critiques of alleged over-reporting in 2005. By 2010, the discourse moves towards articulating more critical stances on Islamophobia, particularly in the context of right-wing extremism, and begins to equate Islamophobia with racism, suggesting a broadening societal recognition of it as a serious form of discrimination. Coverage in 2013 focuses on the aftermath of Lee Rigby's murder, highlighting intensified Islamophobia and its impacts on Muslim communities. In 2021, the discourse expands to include institutional Islamophobia, with significant attention paid to political contexts, both in the UK and elsewhere. Throughout the analysis, we identify both evidence of stability and change in the discourses on Islamophobia, with a general movement towards greater recognition and condemnation of Islamophobia, albeit with a persistent tendency for some sections of the broadsheet press to minimize or delegitimize claims about Islamophobia’s prevalence and severity in UK society. We conclude by considering the possible impacts of the identified discursive trends for Muslims experiencing Islamophobia in the UK, and by reflecting on the affordances of the two-pronged approach to keyword analysis used in the study.
The Economic Benefits of Health Education
Authors: Anton Ecaterina , Tomaziu-Todosia Mihaela , Răcoare Felicia-Cătălina  , Mihalache Iuliana Claudia , Dumitrașcu Irina
Published: May 2024

Health education is an essential topic for the contemporary society because it focuses on delivering information to enhance and sustain community health. This type of education covers issues of broad interest, such as disease prevention, promoting a healthy lifestyle, the significance of nutrition and exercise and stress reduction. Health education aims to raise awareness and build the necessary skills for a healthy behavior. This article aims to develop the concept of "health education" and highlight its importance for the society and the economy by reviewing the literature. We believe that there is a significant connection between health education, population health and the economy as the formation of healthy adults emerges from a well-balanced childhood, which is beneficial to long-term economic development.
Medical Cultural Competence. A Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Moisa Stefana Maria , Butnariu Lăcrămioara Ionela , Trandafir Laura Mihaela
Published: May 2024

Medical clinical practice worldwide requires human interaction between the doctor and the patient, which can prove to be difficult because of many types of communication barriers, including cultural ones. In this context, it is becoming increasingly clear that doctors should be aware of their patient’s cultural traits, that might influence their attitudes towards healthcare and the decision making process. This can prove to be difficult, especially in multicultural societies. This paper aims to highlight Romanian medical students’ opinion on the importance of being aware of the cultural context the patient comes from in order to offer culturally competent healthcare. We conducted a focus group moderated by a group assistant, which included 10 fifth year medical students. Data was interpreted using a phenomenological interpretative approach. Romanian medical students are aware of some particular traits of social minorities in Romania regarding healthcare. They acknowledge the importance of cultural competence in medicine and can imagine several ways to protect human dignity at the end of life.
Social Constructionism in the Educational System. New Dimensions regarding School Participation
Authors: Damaschin Alexandra
Published: May 2024

This article is an invitation for social constructionist practices in the educational system to enhance school participation. The paper represents a qualitative research, and it explores the perspectives of children that are learning in rural areas. Fifteen in-depth interviews and three focus groups with children were conducted between April and December 2020. In this research is used a constructionist approach that finds participation as a social construction. In this line, school participation is created at the level of interactions between children, teachers, and parents through a continuous negotiation. The purpose of the research is not necessarily to highlight the practices through which children are involved as being appropriated or not, but rather to explore how children experience school participation, generating new practices to flourish school participation. The importance of this qualitative research is the fact that it includes the voice of the children that often is silenced in certain issues. Finally, the paper proposes a theoretical model addressing three different levels of school participation aim to generate solutions and new ideas for improving children’s participation, considering their own perspectives.
The Relationship between Academic Stress and Dropout Intention of University Students: The Mediating Role of Teacher and Family Support
Authors: Pham Van Tuan
Published: May 2024

This study aims to evaluate the impact of teacher and family support on academic stress and students' dropout intention and the mediating role of teacher and family support in the relationship between academic stress and students' intention to leave school. The study used a descriptive cross-sectional survey method. Data were collected through a questionnaire, and a random sampling technique was used to obtain 921 respondents. SPSS 26.0 statistical software was used to analyze survey data; descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and mediate variable analysis using the bootstrapping method were calculated to prove the hypotheses. Research results show that teacher support has a significant direct effect on academic stress (β = -.155, p<0.01), family support has a significant direct effect on dropout intention (β = -.092, p< 0.01), academic stress has a significant direct effect on dropout intention with a sizable effect size (β = .388, p<0.01), there is no direct impact from family support on academic stress (β = .037, p> 0.05), and teacher support has not a significant direct effect on dropout intention (β =- .021, p>0.05). Teacher support and family support do not have a mediating role in influencing the relationship between academic stress and students' intention to leave school. The research results improve the quality of higher education by promoting family and teacher support to control students' academic stress and limit the dropout intention rate.
Analysis of the Integration Process of Vulnerable Communities in Social and Economic Development: Batwa Community of Muyange Site Two
Authors: Ndabarushimana Alexis , Ndayizeye Desire
Published: May 2024

The lack of access to food, education, housing, medical healthcare, freedom of participation, and sanitary facilities are some characteristics of vulnerability. Vulnerability can arise from an individual, community, or larger population challenges, requiring diverse policy interventions from social and economic neighborhood development, and income policies, to individual medical support. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the integration process of vulnerable communities in social and economic development, specifically focusing on the Batwa community of Muyange Site Two. The study's objectives are: (1) to identify the living conditions of the vulnerable Batwa communities in Muyange Site Two, (2) to highlight factors hindering the integration process in social and economic development, (3) to explore the role of local administration in integrating vulnerable communities, and (4) to propose practical solutions expediting the Batwa community's integration. Employing stratified random sampling, the research included 50 households from a total of 200 households. It combined qualitative and quantitative methods, using interviews and questionnaires administered directly to the Batwa community. The study revealed challenges faced by the Batwa in accessing food, land for agriculture, and education, leading to extreme poverty. It also identified strategies for the Batwa, local administration, and the government to accelerate integration, emphasizing self-reliance and government support for housing and land ownership to overcome discrimination in the social and economic integration process.
Local Practices in Sacred Groves Management in Togo: A Comparative Study in Nawda, Ifè, and Ouatchi Lands
Authors: Ekoue Akouete Gale , Sama Nankpakou , Yodo Amavi , Adjonou Kossi , Kossi-Titrikou Komi , Kokou Kouami
Published: May 2024

Local populations have ensured the sustainable management of forest resources by sanctifying areas of woodland. Despite the reduction of these sacred groves by multiple threats, including those caused by humans, they persist and demonstrate the community's desire for preservation. This paper focuses on increasing the comprehension of the management of local sacred groves within the Nawda, Ifè, and Ouatchi regions in Togo. Qualitative ethnographic analysis was employed to describe how the management practices are carried out and also to examine their underlying socio-cultural concepts. The findings of the study indicate that customary religious, family, and political authorities manage sacred groves. Management practices involve conducting ritual ceremonies and establishing rules and regulations. The socio-cultural representations that shape these management practices facilitate the definition of sacred groves as sites of shared memory, confer upon them the status of dwelling places of protective divine beings/ancestors, and identify them as sources of prosperity and abundance.
Assessing the Quality of Shellfish Harvesting Areas: The Case of the Oualidia and Sidi Moussa Lagoons in Morocco
Authors: Khbaya K. , Bouthir F-Z. , Cherkaoui R. , Kabiri E. M. , Chfiri R. , Bessa A.
Published: May 2024

Based on European regulation 91/492/EC, Morocco, very early on, established legislation with conditions for producing and marketing live bivalve mollusks. In applying this legislation, the National Institute of Fisheries Research (INRH)[1]  has set up a system for sanitary monitoring of the marine environment, through which several harvesting areas have been classified while others are in progress. In January 2020, the Oualidia and Sidi Moussa lagoons were categorized respectively in classes B and C, with 52.77% of the results falling between 230 and 4600 MPN E. coli/100 g of flesh and intravalvular liquid (FIL) and 11.11% of the results falling between 4600 and 46000 MPN E. coli/100 g FIL. Sidi Moussa Lagoon has been classified as a category C since 2006. Consequently, oyster farming activity has been suspended in this area. This incident serves as a warning sign of the significant weakness of these ecosystems in addressing multiple social and economic challenges. On the other hand, INRH has sufficient data and tools to progress toward better optimization of the marine environment and sanitary monitoring program management.
 
[1] Institut National de Recherche Halieutique.
Factores De Riesgo En La Automedicación De Adultos En Santa Rosa Jáuregui, Querétaro
Authors: Olvera Alejandra Camacho , Lira Alberto Juárez
Published: May 2024

Introducción: La automedicación es considerada como la libertad para consumir medicamentos sin prescripción médica, para el tratamiento de enfermedades o síntomas reconocidos por el paciente. Objetivo: Analizar los factores de riesgo para la automedicación en adultos que acuden al Centro de Salud de Santa Rosa Jáuregui, Querétaro. Material y métodos: Estudio transversal con enfoque cuantitativo donde el universo de estudio fueron adultos de ambos sexos, de cualquier condición de salud que acuden al centro de salud de Santa Rosa Jáuregui. Como instrumento se utilizó el “Cuestionario para los factores en la automedicación” y el “Cuestionario para la automedicación”. La muestra fue de 185 encuestados. Resultados: El 51.35 % de las personas manifiestan automedicarse por decisión propia. Los principales grupos farmacológicos usados para la práctica de automedicación son por analgésicos no esteroideos (AINES) con 86.48%, el grupo de tracto alimentario y metabolismo con igualdad de porcentaje con el grupo de antiinfecciosos para uso sistémico con el 57.29% ambos. Como principales factores de la automedicación son: factores sociodemográficos, sociales, culturales y económicos. Conclusiones: La automedicación constituye un hecho cotidiano en la mayoría de los hogares. Las personas la consideran útil debido a la mejoría de sus síntomas.
 
Introduction: Self-medication is considered as the freedom to consume medicines without a doctor's prescription, for the treatment of diseases or symptoms recognized by the patient. Objective: To analyze the risk factors for self-medication in adults attending the Santa Rosa Jáuregui Health Center, Querétaro. Material and methods: Cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach where the study universe was adults of both sexes, with any health condition who attend the Santa Rosa Jáuregui health center. The “Questionnaire for factors in self-medication”  and the “Questionnaire for self-medication” were used as instruments. The sample was 185 respondents. Results: 51.35% of the people said that they self-medicate by choice. The main pharmacological groups used for the practice of self-medication are non-steroidal analgesics (NSAIDs) with 86.48%, the group of alimentary tract and metabolism with equal percentage with the group of anti-infectives for systemic use with 57.29% both. The main factors of self-medication are: sociodemographic, social, cultural and economic factors. Conclusions: Self-medication is a daily occurrence in most households. People consider it useful because of the improvement in their symptoms.
Multiple Crises, Coping Strategies, and their Longer-Term Impacts
Authors:   Institute of Development Studies, Rohwerder Brigitte
Published: May 2024

The multiple economic shocks during the Covid-19 pandemic resulted in an estimated 1.6 million people falling into poverty in Bangladesh, especially in urban low-income areas, and for women, marginalised groups and those working in the informal sector. Four years later, recovery has been slow. This Synthesis Report gathers evidence from the Covid-19 Learning, Evidence and Research Programme in Bangladesh (CLEAR), looking at multiple crises, coping strategies, and their longer-term impacts. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods longitudinal research over the course of the pandemic and afterwards in Bangladesh illustrate the different strategies people used to try and cope with the multiple shocks they faced over time, and how depleting coping strategies affected their trajectories of poverty and recovery.
KONTEKSTUALISASI HUKUM ZAKAT DI INDONESIA (STUDI TENTANG LEGISLASI DAN KONSTITUSIONALITAS UU PENGELOLAAN ZAKAT DALAM PERSPEKTIF SIYÂSAH SYAR’IYYAH)
Authors: A Asmawi , Faizin Afwan
Published: May 2024

This article aims to discuss the enactment of Zakat ManagementLaw 23/2011. Based on the critical textual study, this study proposes an analysisshowing that the legislation of this law come out of centestation by variousinterest from different groups. Substantially, this law does not contravenethe Constitution of 1945 so that is has a very strong constitutional ground.Siyasashar’iyya is here relevant to the legislation of Islamic law, including theLaw of Zakat Management 23/2011. Therefore, this law is a real example ofthe product of the politics of Islamic law in the context of Indonesia.
Artikel ini akan menjelaskan bahwa legislasi UU 23/2011 (UUPZ)merupakan suatu proses politik yang menghadirkan kontestasi kepentingan/aspirasi berbagai pihak. UU 23/2011 (UUPZ) secara umum tidak bertentangandengan UUD 1945 sehingga memiliki daya konstitusionlitas yang relatif kokoh.Teori siyâsah syar’iyyah memiliki relevansi yang kuat dengan isu legislasi dankonstitusionalitas UU 23/2011 (UUPZ). UU 23/2011 (UUPZ) merupakanproduk dari siyâsah syar’iyyah dalam konteks keindonesiaan.
Unveiling the True Nature of Sliding Friction through Thermodynamic Principles
Authors: Sun Bohua
Published: May 2024

Friction, one of the oldest technologies harnessed by humanity, has thus far eluded a theoretical model capable of predicting kinetic friction forces across a broad range of sliding velocities. This study employs the first principle of thermodynamics to delve into sliding friction. For the first time, a general expression for the friction force has been derived, revealing that the damping of sliding friction is inversely proportional to the relative sliding velocity between the two interfaces in motion, contrary to the assumption in traditional models that it is directly proportional to the relative velocity. To simplify the general result, the concept of a friction boundary layer is introduced. An approximate expression is found to reveal the mechanism for reducing friction, which involves increasing the sliding velocity while decreasing the vibration velocity of the object perpendicular to the sliding interface.
Effectiveness of Individualized Oral Hygiene Education in Preventing Dental Diseases: A Clinical Study
Authors: Simon Fanni , Szabo Gyula , Orsos Mercedesz , Mijiritsky Eitan , Németh Orsolya
Published: May 2024

Background Gingivitis can develop without mechanical cleaning within three weeks. The first clinical sign is bleeding on positive probing. The accumulation of dental biofilm generates an inflammatory gingival response. In the past decade, attention has focused mainly on the interproximal areas and the use of customsized interproximal toothbrushes.The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of individualized oral hygiene education and its role in dental prevention among patients with dental problems. Methods Before treatment, patients were clinically and radiologically examined, full mouth plaque score (FMPS), full mouth bleeding score (FMBS), and bleeding on brushing (BOB) were recorded, and matrix-metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) was measured by using a chair-side MMP-8 measuring system. Patients in group A had gingivitis, but no periodontal damage and patients in group B had periodontal damage. Patients in both groups A and B were identified in to four subgroups based on their toothbrushing habits and the oral health education they received. The three months after initial examination, each patient was examined three more times (2, 4 and 12 weeks later). Results It was concluded that subjects in groups A1 and B1 showed significant reduction in BOB, MMP-8, FMBS and FMPS levels after two weeks. Solo Prophylaxis (A1and B1) remained as a well-constructed protocol with hte complete resolution of interdental inflammation after two weeks. Other subgroups achieved significant reductions only after 12 weeks. Conclusions BOB and MMP-8 are valuable complements in preventive dentistry, and are able to detect potential pathological processes in interproximal spaces. The clinical relevance of BOB, in addition to FMBS, FMPS and gingival inflammation can be demonstrated to patients, which may increase compliance.
Challenges and Deficiencies in Wastewater Management: An Analysis of European Legislation (Directive 91/271/EEC)
Authors: Cisneros-Aguirre Jesús , Afonso-Correa María
Published: May 2024

This article critically examines existing wastewater management legislation, highlighting its detrimental impact on environmental and public health. It emphasizes the urgent need for a mentality shift among water managers, advocating responsible stewardship of water resources. By promoting collaboration between regulatory bodies and scientific communities, the article seeks tailored solutions for complex challenges. It underscores the necessity of integrating technological innovation, rigorous monitoring, and public engagement for sustainable management. Additionally, it calls for the implementation of easy-to-adopt technological solutions, alongside rigorous monitoring and financial support. Ultimately, the article advocates for a paradigm shift in wastewater management policies towards accountability, innovation, and environmental sustainability. Directives governing wastewater management in Europe, particularly in Spain, have faced scrutiny due to significant shortcomings. Legislation has inadvertently facilitated untreated or poorly treated wastewater discharge, resulting in widespread pollution. Despite EU efforts, punitive measures have proven ineffective, with fines often borne by the public sector, although private sector responsibility. The lack of robust monitoring mechanisms and technical support exacerbates the situation, perpetuating a regressive mindset among water managers. Urgent reforms are needed to enforce strict discharge prohibitions, promote reuse, and provide financial and technical assistance. However, systemic barriers and entrenched mentalities pose formidable challenges to meaningful change.
Engineered Resistance to Tobamoviruses
Authors: Carr John Peter
Published: May 2024

Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) was the first virus to be studied in detail and for many years TMV and other tobamoviruses, particularly tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) and tobamoviruses infecting pepper (Capsicum spp.), were serious crop pathogens. By the end of the twentieth and for the first decade of the twenty-first century tobamoviruses were under some degree of control due to introgression of resistance genes into commercial tomato and pepper lines. However, tobamoviruses remained as important models for molecular biology, biotechnology and bio-nanotechnology. Recently, tobamoviruses have again become serious crop pathogens due to the advent of tomato brown rugose fruit virus, which overcomes tomato resistance against TMV and ToMV, and the slow but apparently inexorable worldwide spread of cucumber green mottle mosaic virus, which threatens all cucurbit crops. This review discusses a range of mainly molecular biology-based approaches for protecting crops against tobamoviruses. These include cross-protection (using mild tobamovirus strains to ‘immunize’ plants against severe strains), expressing viral gene products in transgenic plants to inhibit the viral infection cycle, inducing RNA silencing against tobamoviruses by expressing virus-derived RNA sequences in planta or by direct application of double-stranded RNA molecules to non-engineered plants, gene editing of host susceptibility factors, and the transfer and optimization of natural resistance genes.
Obesity Induces DNA Damage in Mammary Epithelial Cells Which Is Exacerbated by Acrylamide Treatment Through CYP2E1-Mediated Oxidative Stress
Authors: Walton Brenna , Kaplan Noah , Hrdlicka Brooke , Mehta Kavi , Arendt Lisa M.
Published: May 2024

Obesity and environmental toxins are risk factors for breast cancer, however there is limited knowledge on how these risk factors interact to promote breast cancer. Acrylamide, a probable carcinogen and obesogen, is a biproduct in foods prevalent in the obesity-inducing Western diet. Acrylamide is metabolized by cytochrome P450 2E1 (CYP2E1) to the genotoxic epoxide, glycidamide, and is associated with increased risk for breast cancer. To investigate how acrylamide and obesity interact to increase breast cancer risk, female mice were fed a low-fat (LFD) or high-fat diet (HFD) and 0.7mM acrylamide-supplemented water or control water. While HFD significantly enhanced weight gain in mice, the addition of acrylamide did not significantly alter body weights compared to respective controls. Mammary epithelial cells from obese, acrylamide-treated mice had increased DNA strand breaks and oxidative DNA damage compared to all other groups. In vitro, glycidamide-treated COMMA-D cells showed significantly increased DNA strand breaks while acrylamide-treated cells demonstrated significantly higher levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species. Knockdown of CYP2E1 rescued the acrylamide-induced oxidative stress. These studies suggest that long-term acrylamide exposure through foods common in the Western diet may enhance DNA damage and CYP2E1-induced generation of oxidative stress in mammary epithelial cells, potentially enhancing obesity-induced breast cancer risk.
Antibiotics Elution Depth in Bone Cement: Impact of Surface Area and Volume
Authors: Huang Yu-Yi , Lin Yu-Chih , Chang Chih-Hsiang , Hsieh Pang-Hsin , Tai Ching-Lung , Hsiao Wei-Lin , Lee Sheng-Hsun
Published: May 2024

Antibiotic-loaded bone cement (ALBC) plays a pivotal role in infection prevention and treatment related to musculoskeletal surgery. The release efficacy of antibiotics from ALBC is closely tied to its surface area, yet little is known about the effective release depth. To investigate the relationship between surface area, volume, and antibiotic elution, spheric ALBC specimens with consistent outer diameters but different internal metal sphere diameters were prepared. Two vancomycin doses were utilized in ALBC specimens with an outer diameter of 35 mm: high (4 g) and low (1 g). Each dosage group included five specimens containing embedded metal spheres with diameters of 15, 25, 29, 32, or 33 mm. The resulting shell-like ALBC specimens had thicknesses of 10 mm, 5 mm, 3 mm, 1.5 mm, or 1 mm, respectively. The specimens were immersed in sterile phosphate buffer solution, and antibiotic elution was measured at designated sampling times (1, 3, 6, 10, 24, 48, 72, and 168 hours). Methylene blue was employed to visualize penetration depth. Vancomycin elution did not display statistically significant differences between high- and low-dose groups. In both groups, specimens with 1 mm thickness exhibited a higher vancomycin release efficiency (high-dose group: 18560±5474 μg, 6.7%; low-dose group: 2017±419 μg, 2.6%), decreasing sharply in thicker ALBC specimens. Methylene blue penetration depth showed no apparent difference between high-dose and low-dose groups. ALBC thickness does not significantly impact antibiotic elution, while surface area and antibiotic dose exert notable effects. These in vitro findings offer potential applications in clinical treatments for musculoskeletal infections.
Effect of Support on Steam Reforming of Ethanol for H2 Production with Copper-Based Catalysts
Authors: Nippes Ramiro Picoli , Macruz Paula Derksen , Domingues Gomes Aline , Souza Marcos de , Ferreira Bruna Rodrigues , Rizzo-Domingues Roberta Carolina Pelissari , Pereira Ramos Luiz
Published: May 2024

Catalytic studies for hydrogen production via steam reforming of ethanol (SRE) are essential for process optimization. Likewise, selecting the ideal support for the active phase can be critical to achieve high conversion rates during the catalytic steam reforming. In this work, copper-based catalysts were synthesized using two different supports, NaY zeolite and Nb2O5/Al2O3 mixed oxides. The materials were prepared using wet impregnation and characterized for their physicochemical properties using different analytical techniques. Differences in catalyst morphologies were readily attributed to the characteristics of the support. The Cu/NaY catalyst showed better textural properties than Cu/Nb2O5/Al2O3, resulting in a homogeneous metal dispersion over the support surface. Both catalytic systems were active in SRE, but Cu/NaY resulted in higher ethanol conversions compared to Cu/Nb2O5/Al2O3. Hence, the performance of copper-based catalysts was influenced significantly by the textural properties of the support.
Segmentation of 3D Point Clouds of Heritage Buildings using Edge Detection and Supervoxel-Based Topology
Authors: Salamanca Santiago , Merchán Pilar , Espacio Alejandro , Pérez Emiliano , Merchán María José
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a novel segmentation algorithm specially developed for applications in 3D point clouds with high variability and noise, particularly suitable for heritage building 3D data. The method can be categorized within the segmentation procedures based on edge detection. In addition, it uses a graph-based topo-logical structure generated from the supervoxelization of the 3D point clouds, which is used to make the clo-sure of the edge points and to define the different segments. The algorithm provides a valuable tool for generating results that can be used in subsequent classification tasks and broader computer applications dealing with 3D point clouds. One of the characteristics of this segmentation method is that it is unsupervised, which makes it particularly advantageous for heritage applications where labelled data is scarce. It is also easily adaptable to different edge point detection and supervoxelization algorithms. Finally, the results show that the 3D data can be segmented into different architectural elements, which is important for further classification or recognition. Extensive testing on real data from historic buildings demonstrates the effectiveness of the method. The results show superior performance compared to three other segmentation methods, both globally and in the segmentation of planar and curved zones of historic buildings.
Green Perspectives: Future Technology Professionals' Views on Sustainability Practices
Authors: Iatrellis Omiros , Samaras Nicholas , Kokkinos Konstantinos , Chaikalis Costas
Published: May 2024

The increasing focus on sustainability and the adoption of green practices across industries underscore the necessity of equipping future professionals with competencies in implementing sustainable solutions. This study explores the perceptions of former students from two departments within the technological sector towards sustainability practices. A cross-sectional online survey was carried out among alumni from two programs at the University of Thessaly, a university recognized for its commitment to sustainability and green initiatives as a member of the INVEST European University alliance. The survey questionnaire included background inquiries and 16 statements designed to gauge alumni perspectives towards sustainability practices. Specifically, it aims to assess their views through self-assessment and compare differences between the two alumni groups. Responses were collected on a 5-point Likert scale ranging from strongly disagree to strongly agree. A total of 300 graduates from the Computer Science and Telecommunications as well as Electrical Engineering undergraduate programs were encouraged to take part in the survey, achieving a response rate of 69%. Of those who responded, 61% (n = 126) represented the Computer Science and Telecommunications group, while 39% (n = 81) were from the Electrical Engineering program. Our findings indicate a generally positive attitude towards sustainability, with statistically significant differences in perspectives on the implementation of sustainable technologies and stakeholder engagement. These results underscore the necessity of integrating sustainability education deeply within the curricula of technological programs to cultivate a workforce capable of addressing future environmental challenges. This study illuminates the critical role of educational frameworks in shaping the sustainability competencies of technology professionals.
Cardiovascular Alterations in Workers Performing at High Altitude on the Etna Volcano
Authors: Vitale Ermanno , Laterra Giulia , Filetti Veronica , Matera Serena , Malta Ginevra , Zagorianakou Nektaria , Barbanti Marco , Dounias George , Rapisarda Venerando , Marconi Andrea
Published: May 2024

Background: high-altitude work exposes individuals to reduced oxygen levels, imposing physi-ological adaptations. These conditions can induce alterations in the cardiovascular system, po-tentially exacerbating pre-existing health issues and impacting overall well-being of workers in such environments. This study has investigated the cardiovascular challenges for the high-altitude worker on Etna volcano. Methods: Through an observational study, ten healthy, non-smoking male participants underwent cardiovascular and pulmonary function tests at alti-tudes below 500m and above 3000m, simulating work conditions on the volcano. Results: signif-icant findings include elevated systemic blood pressure and heart rate, indicating an increased cardiovascular workload necessary for adaptation to hypoxia. Conclusions: the study highlights the importance of acclimatization to high altitude for minimizing cardiovascular risks among workers. It calls for the development of safety protocols, underlining the critical role of preven-tative measures and specific safety protocols for high-altitude workers.
Collaborative Marketing and Supply Chain Strategies for Enhanced Product Lifecycle Management
Authors: Mitchell Eleanor
Published: May 2024

This qualitative research explores the dynamics of collaborative marketing and supply chain strategies for enhanced product lifecycle management. Through in-depth interviews with industry stakeholders, key themes, challenges, and implications of collaboration emerge. Trust, communication, technology, strategic alignment, and sustainability are identified as critical factors driving successful collaboration. The study highlights the transformative potential of collaboration in driving innovation, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Despite challenges such as aligning objectives and ensuring data security, collaborative strategies offer significant opportunities for value creation and differentiation. The findings underscore the importance of building trust, leveraging technology, and integrating sustainability considerations in collaborative efforts. Strategic alignment and cultural fit among partners are essential for overcoming differences and achieving common goals. The implications of the research extend to practitioners seeking to enhance collaboration in their organizations and researchers exploring collaborative practices in different industries and contexts. Future research could further explore the impact of collaboration on stakeholder perspectives and outcomes. By addressing challenges and leveraging opportunities, organizations can maximize the benefits of collaborative marketing and supply chain strategies to drive sustainable growth and competitive advantage in today's dynamic business landscape.
Special Issue on World BOSAI Forum 2023 / IDRC 2023 in SENDAI
Authors: Imamura Fumihiko , Ono Yuichi , Sasaki Daisuke , Hara Yuta
Published: May 2024

The World BOSAI Forum 2023 (WBF2023), held in March 2023 in Sendai, Japan, was successfully convened as a global platform for practical discussion of disaster risk reduction issues in a free and dynamic manner, in contrast to the United Nations, where national interests collide, or academic conferences where experts gather. In particular, we aimed to disseminate the knowledge and lessons learned from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami (GEJET) to the world and share the knowledge and lessons with Japan. We would like to take this opportunity again to express our heartfelt gratitude to all those who participated in the sessions, exhibitions, posters, and flash talk presentations, as well as to the many locals who attended the event. According to the World BOSAI Forum [1], the WBF2023 was attended by 5,412 people over 3 days, including 1,335 pre-registrants from 40 countries and regions, on-site registrants, and EXPO participants. It included 30 oral sessions, 7 conferences, 50 poster sessions, 33 flash talk presentations, and 33 exhibition booths, where tangible solutions for disaster risk reduction were discussed through dialogue among international organizations, governments, academia, the private sector, NGOs, and citizens.

At the forum, Tohoku University hosted 4 sessions and co-hosted 10 sessions, which introduced the role of Tohoku University and the International Research Institute of Disaster Science as well as their contributions to the processes of recovery and reconstruction from the 2011 GEJET.

Finally, the forum came up with recommendations for a Midterm Review of the Implementation of the Sendai Framework 2015–2030 (MTR SF). In May 2023, the High-Level Meeting of the General Assembly on the MTR SF was held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York [2].

The guest editors are pleased to publish this special issue in the Journal of Disaster Research, which comprises six articles sharing the research advancements presented at the WBF2023. We hope that this special issue on the WBF2023 will contribute to the literature on disaster science and further advance disaster risk reduction.

References:

[1] World BOSAI Forum, “WBF2023 Report,” 2023. https://worldBOSAIforum.com/2023/en/report/ [Accessed May 18, 2024] [2] UNDRR, “High-Level Meeting on the Midterm Review of the Sendai Framework,” 2023. https://sendaiframework-mtr.undrr.org/high-level-meeting-midterm-review-sendai-framework-disaster-risk-reduction-2015-2030 [Accessed May 18, 2024]
Marcos visuales de la ciudad: hacia un turismo imaginado en Mexicali
Authors: Fernandez Huerta Christian , Hernández Rascón Mauricio Eduardo
Published: May 2024

En el presente artículo se busca reflexionar sobre cómo las rutas turísticas apoyan la creación o refuerzo de imaginarios turísticos, delimitando la mirada y la narrativa en la que la/el turista se ve inmersa/o al visitar una ciudad, a partir del caso de la “Ruta Centro Histórico” que se ofrece en la ciudad de Mexicali, en el estado de Baja California, México. Según el Gobierno del Estado de Baja California (2022) esta ruta turística fue diseñada para que las personas conozcan los edificios emblemáticos, construcciones, personajes y héroes que forman la identidad de las y los mexicalenses.
BARRIOS, Nuria. La impostora: Cuadernos de traducción de una escritora. Páginas de espuma, 2022, 161 pp., ISBN 978-84-8393-332-9.
Authors: Palomino Tirado Gudrun
Published: May 2024

Reseña del libro: La impostora: Cuadernos de traducción de una escritora.
Detailed protocol for the generation of polarized cortical assembloids (polCA)
Authors: Bosone Camilla , Elisabetta Barilà Sara , Krenn Veronica , Knoblich Jürgen A.
Published: May 2024

Cortical organoids capable of generating the major cortical cell types in distinct compartments are widely used to mechanistically study cortical development, evolution and related disorders. However, the lack of morphogen gradients imparting cortical positional information and topography within individual organoids hinders the solid investigation of complex phenotypes. Here, we describe a co-culture protocol of an organizer-like structure expressing the morphogen FGF8 with an organoid with an elongated shape, to generate a polarized source of FGF8 in individual organoids, referred to as polarized cortical assembloids (polCA). This protocol allows for the establishment of FGF8-dependent positional information along the longitudinal axis of individual organoids and spatially oriented populations with early transcriptional signatures relevant for a cortical protomap. This assembloid protocol can be used to combine organizer-like structures expressing various morphogens to allow for a reliable analysis of morphogens action on cortical positional identity. This protocol accompanies Bosone et al. 2024.
The minimal geoengineering problem concerning the Paris 2015 agreement
Authors: Bodai Tamas , Lembo Valerio , Aneesh Sundaresan , Lee Sun-Seon , Ishuzu Miho , Franz Matthias O.
Published: May 2024

There is a palpable shift in mainstream attitude towards geoengineering technologies, seen now as potential parts of a climate policy mix. Still, concerning solar radiation management (SRM) in particular, because of the known and unknown undesirable side-effects of various engineering implementations of theirs, it is important to know what is the minimal intervention that can achieve a certain goal. Such questions lead mathematically to inverse problems. Solving them is feasible only with lightweight models of the climate system, various types of which are nowadays often referred to as emulators – some more accurate than others. Here we develop an emulator using linear and nonlinear response theory and apply it to the minimal SRM problem concerning the Paris 2015 climate agreement, say, with the aim of constraining the global mean surface temperature below a certain limit. Our results suggest that SRM geoengineering, most commonly envisaged as sulfate aerosol injection, will likely have to be part of our climate policy mix, because realistic CO2 abatement effort to come alone cannot restrict global temperatures below the coveted 1.5 °C change or below even higher levels of change. Minimal sulfate use for the 1.5 °C limit is very likely to dictate immediate and rather abrupt deployment. However, SRM would be no use to achieve such a goal if the geoengineering- free “asymptotic” temperature is not below the target limit, as it would then need – in the absence of CDR – maintaining SRM “indefinitely”. The latter could be the case even if the temperature response to an anthropogenic CO2 emission pulse is nonmonotonic, and it would be certainly the case if it is monotonic. We show that the model that we use is near the boundary in parameter space between monotonic and nonmonotoninc temperature responses. In the unfortunate case of monotonicity concerning the real Earth system, the only use of SRM would be “buying time” to develop CDR.
Multistep allelic conversion in mouse pre-implantation embryos by AAV vectors
Authors: Nickl Petr , Jenickova Irena , Elias Jan , Kasparek Petr , Kopkanova Jana , Barinka Cyril , Sedlacek Radislav
Published: May 2024

Site-specific recombinases (SSRs) are critical for achieving precise spatiotemporal control of engineered alleles. These enzymes play a key role in facilitating the deletion or inversion of loci flanked by recombination sites, resulting in the activation or repression of endogenous genes, selection markers or reporter elements. However, multiple recombination in complex alleles can be laborious. To improve this, a new and efficient method using AAV vectors can simplify the conversion of systems based on Cre, Flpo, Dre and Vika recombinases. In this study, we present an effective method for ex vivo allele conversion using Cre, Flp (flippase), Dre, and Vika recombinases, employing adeno-associated viruses (AAV) as a delivery vector. AAVs enable efficient allele conversion with minimal toxicity in a reporter mouse line. Moreover, AAVs facilitate sequential allele conversion, essential for fully converting alleles with multiple recombination sites, typically found in conditional knockout mouse models. While simple allele conversions show a 100% efficiency rate, complex multiple conversions consistently achieve an 80% conversion rate. Overall, this strategy markedly reduces the need for animals and significantly speeds up the process of allele conversions, representing a significant improvement in genome engineering techniques.
Synthesis and Preclinical Evaluation of Novel 68Ga-Labeled Bispecific SSTR/GLP-1R Targeting Probes for Neuroendocrine Neoplasms Imaging
Authors: Ruan Chuyin , Yang Xiaoqiang , Qi Yongshuai , Chi Xiaohua , Li Guiping , Jiang Ying
Published: May 2024

Purpose
The neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) have a poor early diagnostic rate. To increase the detection rate of NENs, this project aims to build a PET probe, DOTA-exendin-4-TOC, that targets both SSTR and GLP-1R.
Procedures
The novel dual-target molecular probe DOTA-exendin-4-TOC was constructed, and radiolabeled with gallium-68 to target both SSTR and GLP-1R. In vivo and in vitro stability tests, cellular uptake tests, biodistribution, and microPET/CT studies were used to examine the PET probe properties in the tumor models including RIN-M5F, INS-1, and AR42J.
Results
The synthesis of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-exendin-4-TOC had a radiochemical purity of more than 95%. The radiolabel demonstrated better stability both in vivo (in mouse serum) and in vitro (in PBS), and it is eliminated by the urine system. RIN-M5F cells, INS-1 cells, and AR42J cells were found to have an uptake effect on [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-exendin-4-TOC in vitro cell uptake experiments. The tumor models containing RIN-M5F, INS-1, and AR42J demonstrated uptake of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-exendin-4-TOC at 60 and 120 minutes, according to microPET/CT imaging. Higher values of tumor uptake were noted for AR42J at 1.50 ± 0.10 (120 min), INS-1 at 1.57 ± 0.12 (60 min), and RIN-M5F at 0.87 ± 0.11 (60 min). All three tumor models exhibited tumor tissues' uptake of [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-exendin-4-TOC, according to in vivo metabolism studies. Furthermore, the kidneys had the highest distribution of radioactivity.
Conclusions
In this work, a new molecular probe that targets SSTR and GLP-1R was successfully constructed and radiolabeled with [68Ga]Ga, called [68Ga]Ga-DOTA-exendin-4-TOC. This novel dual-target probe could be applied as a valuable tool for improving the detection rate in patients in the future.
Sustainable Extraction Strategy for Lignin from Coconut Coir using Organosolv and Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES)
Authors: Agrawal Divykriti , Tripathi Anamika , Pal Pradipta , Hoque Moinal , Bharathi Sundaram Deepika , Jacob Samuel
Published: May 2024

Purpose
Lignocellulosic biomass serves as a potential source for the production of biomaterials and chemicals. Hence, this study focuses on utilizing a mild chemical route for lignin extraction to retain its native state thereby enhancing sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
Methods
Coconut coir, the selected biomass for lignin extraction is subjected to organosolv and Deep Eutectic Solvent (DES) treatments. Under the organosolv treatment strategy, two solvent-catalyst combinations were employed viz., ethanol and diethylene glycol (50%, v/v) along with FeCl3 and NaOH (3%, w/v) as a catalyst. Whereas, the DES treatments involve Choline Chloride (ChCl) and lactic acid (1:2), ChCl and urea (1:2) and ChCl and oxalic acid (1:1).
Results
During organosolv treatment, the maximum delignification was found to be 71.03 ± 1.90% (w/w) in ethanol + FeCl3 reflux, while DES treatment resulted in a maximum delignification of 60.93 ± 5.30% (w/w) with ChCl and urea at 120°C ± 2. The recovered lignin FTIR analysis revealed characteristic peaks comparable with the standard pure alkali/kraft lignin profile and the functional groups contained in lignin are correlated and indicated in the NMR profile as well.
Conclusion
The chosen treatments, show notable delignification while maintaining the native structure of the lignin, hence reinforcing the viability of lignin extraction sustainably and economically.
Optimization of the 5ʹ untranslated region of mRNA vaccines
Authors: 马 琦 , Zhang Xiaoguang , Yang Jing , Li Hongxia , Hao Yanzhe , Feng Xia
Published: May 2024

To investigate the impact of different 5ʹ untranslated regions (UTRs) on mRNA vaccine translation efficiency, five dual-reporter gene expression plasmids with different 5ʹUTRs were constructed. The corresponding mRNA transcripts were transcribed and capped in vitro. By comparing the expression levels of reporter genes with different 5'UTRs, we identified the 5'UTR associated with the highest expression level. Subsequently, HIVgp145 mRNA vaccines containing various 5'UTRs were constructed and verified. The results demonstrated that mRNA 3 (β-globin 5'UTR) displayed the greatest number of green fluorescence-positive cells and the highest luciferase fluorescence intensity in the reporter gene expression system. Further, among the HIVgp145 mRNA vaccines with different 5'UTRs, mRNA 7 (β-globin 5'UTR) exhibited the highest level of expression. These findings indicate that it is feasible to use the 5ʹUTR of β-globin in an mRNA vaccine, laying the foundation for animal immunogenicity testing.