bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anesthesia-related intervention for long-term survival and cancer recurrence following breast cancer surgery: A systematic review of prospective studies
Authors: Yang Yuecheng , Zhang Yunkui , Tang Yonghong , Zhang Jun
Published: December 2023

Objective

Anesthesia is correlated with the prognosis of cancer surgery. However, evidence from prospective studies focusing on breast cancer is currently limited. This systematic review aimed to investigate the effect of anesthesia-related interventions on oncological outcomes following breast cancer surgery in prospective studies.

Methods

Literature searches were performed from inception to June. 2023 in the Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase, and ClinicalTrials databases. The main inclusion criteria comprised a minimum of one-year follow-up duration, with oncological outcomes as endpoints. Anesthesia-related interventions encompassed, but were not limited to, type of anesthesia, anesthetics, and analgesics. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool.

Results

A total of 9 studies were included. Anesthesia-related interventions included paravertebral nerve block (3), pectoral nerve block (1), sevoflurane (2), ketorolac (2), and infiltration of lidocaine (1). Cancer recurrence, metastasis, disease-free survival, or (and) overall survival were assessed. Among all included studies, only infiltration of lidocaine was found to prolong disease-free survival and overall survival.

Conclusion

Regional anesthesia and propofol did not improve oncological outcomes following breast cancer surgery. The anti-tumorigenic effect of ketorolac warrants future studies with larger sample sizes. Perioperative infiltration of lidocaine around the tumor may be a promising anti-tumorigenic intervention that can prolong overall survival in patients with early breast cancer.
Biological and behavioral features and colonization of the sylvatic mosquito Sabethes identicus (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Lima Bersot Maria Ignez , Vieira Genilton , De Moraes Jose Rodrigo , Rocha Pereira Glauber , Albuquerque Motta Monique , Lourenço-De-Oliveira Ricardo
Published: December 2023

Mosquitoes of the genus Sabethes are exclusively sylvatic species occurring in Central and South Americas, where they play a role in the transmission of arbovirus. Sabethes identicus, a common bamboo-breeder species, has been found naturally infected with yellow fever virus. Our study aimed to describe biological and behavioral features of Sa. identicus in the laboratory, as well as establish and standardize an isolated colony for experimental assays. We tested different larval densities and evaluated larval and pupal development time, oviposition behavior, egg production, and longevity. We also shot and video-documented bionomics and behavioral aspects of the mosquitoes in the field and laboratory. A colony with more than 30 generations was achieved. Embryogenesis of Sa. identicus is completed in about three days with a 79% hatch rate, while larval and pupal development takes approximately 15–17 and nine days, respectively. The mosquito’s entire life cycle lasts approximately 30 days. Adult females could survive 71 days, and each individual laid an average of 88 eggs over their lifetime; 50% of females and males survived 37 and 24 days, respectively. Hematophagy peaks as early as the first week of emergence. The net content of a bamboo internode influenced the choice for oviposition, with the average number of eggs laid in those containing rearing water with larval and pupal exuviae being significantly higher than when they had only dechlorinated water or water with yeast. We documented for the first time an ecological association of weevils and Sa. identicus, where the oviposition of the latter depends on the weevil creating a hole in the bamboo wall for egg-laying purposes. Video recordings revealed for the first time the peculiar movements of gravid females during egg-throwing into tiny bamboo holes, as well as the laborious escape of newly emerged adults from the bamboo cavity, and mating behavior.
Editors’ introduction
Authors: Loviglio Jason , Lindgren Mia
Published: December 2023

This issue brings together exciting new work that reflects the expanding scholarly remit of ‘radio studies’. The six research articles are broad in scope and geographical reach, ranging from an exploration of audio in video games, to podcasting apps, industry funding models, and emerging and historical formats. Also included are two reviews of key texts published in the past year. The editors’ introduction concludes by highlighting some of the most remarkable conferences and symposia that took place in 2023.
Shadow of the New Deal: The Victory of Public Broadcasting, Josh Shepperd (2023)
Authors: Curran Kevin J. N.
Published: December 2023

Review of: Shadow of the New Deal: The Victory of Public Broadcasting, Josh Shepperd (2023)

Urbana, IL: University of Illinois Press, 244 pp.,

ISBN 978-0-25208-725-7, p/bk, $28.00
Growth performance of Indonesian three-breed cross chicken associated with growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor 2 genes
Authors: Mariandayani Harini Nurcahya , Darwati Sri , Khaerunnisa Isyana , Prasasty Vivitri Dewi
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim: Poultry, such as chickens, is an important source of animal protein, producing eggs and meat. Local chickens are able to adapt to the hot weather and become more resistant to disease. However, it has relatively slow growth and low egg production. These problems can be overcome through holding selection and crossing. Local chicken productivity is slow and low based on chicken growth. There is a need to examine the factors that influence growth and productivity. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate crossbreed chicken growth performance, including body weight (BW), BW gain, feed intake, and feed conversion.

Materials and Methods: DNA was extracted from 40 chickens with the growth hormone (GH) gene and 40 chickens with the insulin-like growth factor 2 (IGF2) gene, followed by a polymerase chain reaction. Genotyping was performed using restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. In animal selection and phenotypic data collection, 80 chickens from Sentul, Kampung, and Kedu were used to produce the second-generation three-crossbreed chickens (F2) using the GH gene.

Results: Growth hormone is a very relevant gene in chicken performance traits. Growth hormone and IGF2 genes regulate chicken production. This study presents the second-generation growth features of three-crossbreed chickens derived from Sentul, Kampung, and Kedu, all of which are native to Indonesia (F2). A statistically significant (p = 0.05) improvement in BW, weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion over a 12-week period was observed when the animals were allowed free access to regular feed. Analysis of variance results indicated a significant (p = 0.0001) interaction between the 12-week period and GH and IGF2 gene sensitivities of different chicken breeds.

Conclusion: Crossbreed chicken growth performance increased within 12 weeks. This study highlighted the need to improve the productivity and breeding of domestic crossbred chickens to contribute to the Indonesian conservation and genetic diversity program.

Keywords: body weight, domestic chicken crossbreed, feed conversion, growth hormone gene, insulin-like growth factor 2 gene.
The native taxa of Arecaceae in India: a review
Authors: Mehmud Selim , Roy Himu
Published: December 2023

The present review study is an attempt to assemble and scrutinize major taxonomic and floristic works on the family Arecaceae and present revised information both on diversity and geography of the family in India. The study enumerates total 85 native taxa (84 species and one subspecies) belonging to 19 genera of Arecaceae in the country, where the genus Calamus is represented by 35 taxa (34 species and one subspecies), and remaining genera by less than ten species each. The present list of accepted species includes synonyms, data on their distribution, ecology (forest types, elevation) and status in the country. Among these 85 taxa, 21 species are currently considered under five different categories of IUCN, i.e. twelve species are attributed to Least Concern category, five to Vulnerable, three to Near Threatened, and one species to Endangered and Extinct in the Wild respectively. Total eleven species are endemic to India where one species is distributed in Peninsular India, one in Peninsular and Nicobar Islands, one in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Maharashtra, two in Nicobar Islands, two in Andaman Islands, two in Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and two in Western Ghats. Majority of the species were found to be confined to evergreen and rain forests. The species occur from lowlands to 2400 m elevation. Common cultivated taxa are excluded here.

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Floristic findings in the south-east of the Sverdlovsk Region, Russia
Authors: Grudanov Nikolay Yu. , Senator Stepan A. , Tretyakova Aliona S. , Philippov Dmitry A.
Published: December 2023

The article contains new information about the locations of rare and alien species of vascular plants in the Sverdlovsk Region. Four species (Achillea stepposa, Cyperus fuscus, Lycopus exaltatus, Trifolium fragiferum) are new for the Sverdlovsk Region. New locations for nine rare species and subspecies in the region (Campanula glomerata subsp. farinosa, Carex spicata subsp. spicata, Cirsium esculentum, Juncus ranarius, Lythrum intermedium, L. virgatum, Ostericum palustre, Plantago maxima, Rubus idaeus subsp. strigosus) are also reported.

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Rediscovery of Rubus sikkimensis Hook. f. from Northeast India and lectotypification of its name
Authors: Kumar Vikas
Published: December 2023

Rubus sikkimensis Hook. f. is an endemic species of eastern Himalaya, described from Sikkim by J. D. Hooker in 1849. Since then, the species was never collected from India until its rediscovery from Sikkim in 2019 after a gap of 170 years. Another collection from Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India, made by the author in 2021, is reported here as a new distributional record. A detailed description of the species with lectotype designation, photographs, and comparison with allied species are provided to facilitate its easy identification.

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Floristic findings in the flora of the Upper Yenisei basin (Krasnoyarsk Territory, Republic of Khakassia, Republic of Tuva)
Authors: Shaulo Dmitry N. , Zykova Elena Yu. , Lomonosova Maria N. , Tupitsyna Natalya N. , Shikalova Elena A. , Shmakov Alexander I.
Published: December 2023

In the course of field research, analysis of previously published works and review of materials stored in well-known collection funds of Siberia (LE, NS, HGU), information on the distribution of rare adventitious and native plant species in the Upper Yenisei basin was clarified. For the first time, Chenopodiastrum badachschanicum, Galinsoga quadriradiata, Knautia arvensis, and Polygonum rectum were noted for the flora of the Republic of Tuva. Amaranthus albus, Festuca gigantea turned out to be new for the flora of the Sayano-Shushensky Reserve. In 11 rare species, new locations were noted and range boundaries were specified: Aconogonon diffusum, Amaranthus albus, Astragalus suffruticosus, Ciminalis squarrosa, Fagopyrum esculentum, Heteropappus biennis, Lappula tuvinica, Linaria melampyroides, Platanthera fuscescens, Portulaca oleracea, Potentilla virgata, and Rosa majalis.

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Do mercado ilegal ao contrabando:
Authors: Xavier Soares Tamires
Published: December 2023

A Segunda Guerra Mundial começou em 1939 e teve amplo impacto global. O Brasil, sob o governo ditatorial de Getúlio Vargas, inicialmente adotou uma política de neutralidade até 1942, quando entrou em guerra ao lado dos Aliados. No entanto, a situação beligerante afetou o Brasil desde 1939, especialmente o setor de transporte, devido à falta de autonomia na produção de combustíveis e à dificuldade de importação. A compra de pneus também foi afetada após a criação da Comissão de Acordos de Washington, em julho de 1942, que impôs limites à quantidade de pneus a serem adquiridos pelos donos de automóveis, caminhões e ônibus. Essas medidas levaram à inserção desses insumos no mercado clandestino. Este artigo explora como as redes de contrabando e mercado ilegal de combustíveis e pneus funcionaram no Rio Grande do Sul durante esse período e a conjuntura que as moldou.
Apparel Design Inspired by Object-Based Learning
Authors: Williams Amber S. , Boschetto Lacee R. , Brown Donna M.
Published: December 2023

Slow looking is the art and practice of learning through observation. Using object-based learning strategies provides instructors with innovative opportunities to pique curiosity while providing scaffolding for creativity skills needed to generate new clothing and apparel designs. This
paper aims to identify how an FCS educator can use a slow- looking activity as an approach that integrates curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking in the apparel design classroom.
Model-Free Sliding Mode Control for a Nonlinear Teleoperation System with Actuator Dynamics
Authors: Abdelwaheb Henni Mansour , Abderrahmane Kacimi , AEK Belaidi
Published: December 2023

Teleoperation robotic systems control, which enables humans to perform activities in remote situations, has become an extremely challenging field in recent decades. In this paper, a Model Free Proportional-Derivative Sliding Mode Controller (MFPDSMC) is devoted to the synchronization problem of teleoperation systems subject to actuator dynamics, time-varying delay, model uncertainty, and input interaction forces. For the first time, the teleoperation model used in this study combines actuator dynamics and manipulator models into a single equation, which improves model accuracy and brings it closer to the actual system than in prior studies. Further, the proposed control approach, called Free, involves the simple measurement of inputs and outputs to enhance the system's performance without relying on any knowledge from the mathematical model. In addition, our strategy includes a Sliding Mode term with the MFPD term to increase system stability and attain excellent performance against external disturbances. Finally, using the Lyapunov function under specified conditions, asymptotic stability is established, and simulation results are compared and provided to demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed strategy.
A Model of Continual and Deep Learning for Aspect Based in Sentiment Analysis
Authors: López Ramos Dionis , Artigas Fuentes Fernando J.
Published: December 2023

Sentiment Analysis is a useful tool in several social and business contexts. Aspect Sentiment Classification is a subtask in Sentiment Analysis that gives information about features or aspects of people, entities, products, or services present in reviews. Different Deep Learning models have been proposed to solve Aspect Sentiment Classification focus on a specific domain such as restaurant,hotel, or laptop reviews. However, there are few proposals for creating a single model with high performance in multiple domains. The Continual Learning approach with neural networks has been used to solve aspect classification in multiple domains. However, avoid low aspect classification performance in Continual Learning is challenging. As a consequence, potential neural networkweight shifts in the learning process in different domains or datasets.In this paper, a novel Aspect Sentiment Classification approach is proposed. Our approach combines a Transformer Deep Learning technique with a Continual Learning algorithm in different domains. The input layer used is the pre‐trained model Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers. The experiments show the efficacy of our proposal with 78 .
Forging Connections and Fostering Belonging: The Role of Positive Psychology in the Virtual Classroom
Authors: Dickman Kimberly
Published: December 2023

Technology has expanded the landscape of higher education. The ability to learn almost anything from anywhere at any time has impacted educational attainment, particularly for those who lacked access in the past. Many who enter the virtual classroom, however, do not stay. Completion rates for online learning fall short, especially when compared to in-person experiences. For all its advancements, online learning has also created a chasm in human connection that influences learning. We are not made to connect through wires. Though we may espouse having multitudes of “friends” online, developing a true sense of belonging and connection must be purposefully developed when working through a screen and keyboard. This reflective essay interrogates the use of technology in higher education and encourages the inclusion of positive psychology practices to bridge the gap of human connection that is an integral part of student success.
COLLOID-CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF KAOLIN ZHURAVLINY LOG SUSPENSIONS
Authors: Filatova N. V. , Kosenko N. F. , Morozova M. V.
Published: December 2023

Dispersion characteristics of the Zhuravliny Log kaolin, zeta potential, and apparent viscosity of its suspensions were studied. Kaolin suspensions had rather high stability due to the negative charge of particle surface. Zeta potential was described as a function of pH and tripolyphosphate concentration by the electrophoresis. The additive influenced the apparent viscosity of suspensions for account of pH and zeta potential increase ability. Kaolin isoelectric point was found (3.28). Kaolin suspension had a sufficiently high casting rate that might be explained by a good mineral crystallinity (Hinkley index 1.76).
MIDDLE RANGE ORDER IN GLASSES OF La2O3–Nb2O5–B2O3 AND BaO–Nb2O5–P2O5 SYSTEMS ACCORDING TO X-RAY TOTAL SCATTERING
Authors: Avakyan L. A. , Alekseev R. O. , Firsova J. A. , Tretyakov E. A. , Vakulenko Ya. I. , Shakhgildyan G. Yu. , Bugaev L. A. , Sigaev V. N.
Published: December 2023

We have obtained the X-ray total scattering patterns at wavelength 0.20735 ? and corresponding to them radial distribution functions (RDF) of electron density for glasses in the La2O3–Nb2O5–B2O3 and BaO–Nb2O5–P2O5 systems. The RDF demonstrate separate peaks at distances below ~1 nm which points on the middle range ordering in the considered glasses. The consideration of RDF for BaO–Nb2O5–P2O5 glasses system with high concentration of BaO show that the middle range order is caused by the polyhedra chains of ideal BaO crystal, and these chains does not belong to any low-index crystal plane. For La2O3–Nb2O5–B2O3 glasses system the polyhedra chains are observed which resemble those in the LaB3O6 crystal, with polyhedra bound through borate groups. For all considered glasses the niobium polyhedra does not form extended chains.
INVESTIGATION OF THE STRUCTURE AND INFLUENCE OF ION EXCHANGE ON THE MICROHARDNESS OF LOW-ALKALI TRANSPARENT GANITE GLASS-CERAMICS
Authors: Shakhgildyan G. Yu. , Alexeev R. O. , Naumov A. S. , Zolikova A. A. , Savinkov V. I. , Sigaev V. N.
Published: December 2023

Transparent glass-ceramics are attracting more and more attention as a material for protecting the screens of electronic devices. The paper considers the possibility of carrying out ion-exchange of transparent gahnite glass-ceramics containing a small Na2O content. The structure and properties of glass-ceramics before and after ion-exchange were studied by x-ray diffraction analysis, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy, and Vickers hardness determination. It is shown that, under certain conditions, ion-strengthening of glass ceramics with a low content of alkali ions can lead to an increase in microhardness values.
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF NEW PEROVSKITE-TYPE PbNaKNb2FeO9.5 CERAMIC
Authors: Popov A. M. , Sekushin N. A. , Макееv B. A. , Sеlyutin A. A. , Zhuk N. A.
Published: December 2023

Lead-containing perovskite of complex composition PbNaKNb2FeO9.5 (sp. gr. Pnma, a = 5.654 ± 0.003 ?, b = 7.977 ± 0.001 ?, c = 5.646 ± 0.003 ?) was synthesized for the first time by the solid-phase reaction method. The sample is characterized by a non-porous microstructure formed by randomly oriented cubic crystallites. The band gap (?2.10 eV) of a complex perovskite for a direct allowed electronic transition was calculated from the data of the diffuse reflectance spectrum. The permittivity of the sample at room temperature and a frequency of 106 Hz reaches 1365, and the dielectric loss tangent is 0.1.
CHEMICAL-MINERALOGICAL STUDY OF BASALT AND SERPENTINITE FOR OBTAINING MINERAL FIBER
Authors: Kazakova M. N. , Eminov A. A. , Shokоsimov I. K.
Published: December 2023

The article presents the results of studies on the chemical-mineralogical composition, acidity and viscosity moduli of basalt and serpentinite of the Arvaten deposit. It has been established that the basalts and serpentinites of this deposit can be used as a raw material for the production of stone casting materials, in the form of mineral wool, and with corrective additives are suitable for the production of basalt fiber.
APPLICATION FEATURES OF GLASS-CERAMIC SO-115M IN MANUFACTURING OF OPTICAL PARTS FOR RING He-Ne-LASERS
Authors: Sinelnikov A. O. , Zapotylko N. R. , Zubarev Ya. A. , Katkov A. A.
Published: December 2023

The results of an investigations into the effect of filamentous striae with birefringence from 3 to 15 nm/cm in SO-115M glass-ceramic on the manufacturing quality of optical parts for ring lasers and the exact characteristics of laser gyroscopes based on them are presented. It is shown that the presence of striaes with stresses of no more than 15 nm/cm in SO-115M glass-ceramic does not depend on the speed of manufacturing the resonator optical circuit and the quality of its assembly. The presence of striaes in the output mirror additional backscattered of a ring laser may have the destination of lock-in zone. Correct adjustment of the output mirror allows to reduce scattering and reveal the growth of the lock-in zone in laser gyroscope. It is shown that the accuracy of the laser gyroscope improves by the quality mirror substrates, the geometry of the resonator body, and increases the accuracy of scattering inside the resonator.
PREPARATION, STRUCTURE AND IONIC CONDUCTIVITY OF THE M0.9Y0.1O2–?–BiScO3 (M = Zr, Ce)
Authors: Sudzhanskaya I. V. , Sotnikova V. S.
Published: December 2023

Samples of Zr0.9Y0.1O2–?–BiScO3 and Сe0.9Y0.1O2–?–BiScO3 solid solutions were obtained by solid-phase synthesis. X-ray diffraction revealed that the Zr0.9Y0.1O2–?–BiScO3 system corresponds to a tetragonal structure with space symmetry group P42/nmc. The Сe0.9Y0.1O2–?–BiScO3 ceramics is two-phase and is characterized by a cubic structure with space symmetry groups and Ia–3. Using the impedance spectroscopy method, it was found that the Сe0.9Y0.1O2–?–BiScO3 system has the highest electrical conductivity, however, the activation energy is lower in the Zr0.9Y0.1O2–?–BiScO3 ceramics, amounting to 0.3 eV in the temperature range of 300–420 ?С and 0.7 eV in the temperature range 420–680 ?С.
The activation energy of the Сe0.9Y0.1O2–?–BiScO3 solid solution is 1.0 eV.
APPLICATION OF SILICON CARBIDE SAND IN THE TECHNOLOGY OF PROCESSING THE REVERSE SIDE OF SILICON TRANSISTOR STRUCTURES
Authors: Shakhmayeva A. R. , Kazalieva E.
Published: December 2023

A method is proposed for processing the reverse side of silicon transistor structures before the metal deposition process and obtaining contact to the collector of the transistor being formed. The parameters of the surface roughness of the silicon surface treated with carbide–silicon sand are studied in order to improve the adhesive properties before spraying the contact to the collector region of the transistor.
METHODS OF FORMING COMPLEX PROFILE PRODUCTS FROM HEAT-RESISTANT CERAMIC MATERIALS BASED ON SILICON CARBIDE
Authors: Markov M. A. , Belyakov A. N. , Dyuskina D. A. , Chekuryaev A. G. , Bykova A. D. , Perevislov S. N. , Kashtanov A. D.
Published: December 2023

The possibility of obtaining complex-shaped mechanical engineering products based on reaction-sintered silicon carbide using two methods - mechanical processing of polymerized blanks before sintering and hot slip molding under pressure, has been studied. The obtained silicon carbide ceramic materials are characterized by a low density of about 3.04…3.07 g/cm3, a porosity of ? 1 % and a bending strength of 320…360 MPa. Materials based on silicon carbide modified with boron carbide have a density of 2.72 g/cm3, a porosity of about 1 % and a bending strength of 280 MPa.
Philosophical Discourses on Economic Governance: An African Perspectives
Authors: JACKSON Emerson Abraham
Published: December 2023

This paper offers a comprehensive analysis of African perspectives on economic governance from a philosophical viewpoint. The study highlights the importance of incorporating African philosophical perspectives in economic governance and provides insights into the challenges and opportunities for economic governance in Africa. It also provides policymakers with valuable insights into the key factors that influence economic governance in Africa and highlights the necessary policy interventions required to improve economic governance in the region. Additionally, the study offers directions for future research, emphasizing the need for further research on the relationship between African philosophical perspectives and economic governance, as well as comparative studies of economic governance in different regions. Overall, this study contributes to the knowledge base on economic governance in Africa and provides important insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to improve economic governance in the region.
Role of Legal Certainty in Providing Economic Security: Ukraine’s Experience
Authors: OSTAPENKO Hanna
Published: December 2023

Economic security is an element of the national security of the country. Even though regulation of economic security implies developing economic sectors or preventing threats, legal principles are not usually considered. The article analyzes how legal certainty as a principle forms a favorable environment, produces reliability, and encourages market players to realize their economic and entrepreneurial initiatives, provided that the country ensures a high level of it. A plurality of the elements of legal certainty makes the influence of the principle of legal certainty on the economic situation diverse and merely realized. It is proposed to divide these elements into two groups in the article. The first one consists of predictability, consistency, and stability. The second one incorporates the mechanisms, mostly legally provided, that prevent the violation of legal certainty. Further examples of court decisions and government acts show negative implications for economic security the violation of legal certainty can lead to. The stability that arises from legal certainty can help market players build their plans and calculate positive risks. Legal certainty contributes to the attraction of investments since profitability depends on the stability of legal regulation. Legitimate expectations are the components of the principle of legal certainty; they rely on the time an entrepreneur makes their business plans. Thus, the reliability that arises from respect to legitimate expectations plays a crucial role in long-term business planning. Immediate changes, the lack of enforcement caused by sudden changes in previously made decisions, and inconsistency in market management lead to a harmful economic effect on legitimate expectations.
Environmental Concerns, Sustainable Consumption, and COVID-19 Fear in Online Consumers: A Research Exploration
Authors: WONG Wong Ming , QU Mingjing , NUNUALVUTTIWONG Chanidapha , NGAMCHAROENMONGKHON Kobkullaya
Published: December 2023

As a conceptual paper, this study examines the nuanced relationships between consumers’ environmental orientations (egoistic, altruistic, and biospheric) and their sustainable consumption patterns, particularly emphasizing the prevailing influence of COVID-19 fear. Utilizing a targeted survey approach, responses from online Taiwanese and Thai consumers are gathered and analyzed through a Structural Equation Model, incorporating diverse analytical avenues such as path, mediation, moderation, and multi-group analyses. The study aims to describe prosocial consumers by their distinct environmental concerns and subsequent sustainable consumption behaviors. Furthermore, the study sheds light on how the COVID-19 pandemic has modulated the dynamic between environmental considerations and tangible sustainable consumption actions. In a post-pandemic setting, the study contributes to academic discourse by highlighting the confluence of environmental consciousness and sustainable consumption. It also provides pragmatic implications for businesses, directing them towards eco-centric product offerings and cultivating a deeper ecological awareness among consumers, fostering sustainable purchase intention and behaviors.
COVID-19 Pandemic and Foreign Trade Behavior in the Democratic Republic of Congo: A Non-Parametric Test Approach by Comparison of Means
Authors: LUBONGO MBILU Yannick , LOWENGA KOYAMODJA Logas , KANA KIWE Junior , MUDIANDAMBU KITADI Oscar , NGOYA KALENDA Angel , NTUNGILA NKAMA Floribert
Published: December 2023

This paper analyzes the behavior of foreign trade indicators, specifically exports and imports in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) during the COVID-19 pandemic. This health crisis was labelled a "pandemic" by the World Health Organization because it affected all mankind to varying degrees. It also examines the evolution of international reserves during the same period, while taking stock of some macroeconomic indicators for the DRC.

Non-parametric tests reveal differences in the means between the period of the COVID-19 surge and the period of the COVID-19 decline, to verify the significance of the negative or positive influence of imports and exports in the DRC. 

It was fandhat during the year most affected by the pandemic, 2020 compared to the previous year, 2019, both exports and imports fell on average annually, respectively (in millions of USD) by 1,078.6 versus 1,098.6 and by 988.8 versus 1,149.1. This can be justified by the various measures taken by the government to contain the COVID-19 pandemic. Subsequently, these same indicators (in millions of USD) will increase between 2021 and 2022, respectively from 1,742.5 to 2,368.4 for exports and from 1,520.4 to 1,920.1 for imports. This increase is the result of the urgent stimulus measures taken by the government to enable the economy to cope with the multiple economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. These observations were also verified by statistical tests: these show differences for independent and matched samples at the 0.05 threshold. There is a considerable difference in exports in millions of USD between those during the absence of COVID-19 and those during the presence of COVID-19.

These observations were also verified by statistical tests: these provide differences for independent and matched samples at the 0.05 level. There is a considerable difference in exports (in millions of USD) between those made in the period before and those made during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Interactive instructional teaching method (IITM); contribution towards students’ ability in answering unfamiliar types questions of buffer solution
Authors: Habiddin Habiddin , Ulfa Rafika , Utomo Yudhi
Published: December 2023

This paper highlights the contribution of the Interactive Instructional Teaching Method (IITM) in improving students’ ability to solve unfamiliar types of questions, adversity quotient, and learning interest in chemistry on the topic of buffer solutions. Two groups of senior high school students from a public school in East Java, Indonesia, participated in this study. One group (experimental) with 29 students experienced IITM, while another group (comparison) with 31 students experienced the Direct Instructional Teaching Model (DITM). The difference in students’ ability between the two groups was assessed using 10 unfamiliar types of questions of buffer solutions. This study uncovered only a small advantage of IITM students over DITM students in answering unfamiliar questions and their adversity quotient scores. However, regarding their learning interest, the contribution of the two teaching approaches was considered equal. Students’ adversity quotient correlated positively to their ability to answer unfamiliar questions of buffer solutions. Meanwhile, the effect of students’ learning interests and adversity quotient on students’ ability to answer unfamiliar questions was found uncorrelated.
Interleukin 33, soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2, interleukin 27, and galectin 3 as predictors for outcome in patients admitted to intensive care units
Authors: Eric Stevan , Zaric Radica Zivkovic , Jevdjic Jasna , Drakulic Svetlana Miletic , Stanojevic Ivan , Vojvodic Danilo , Arsenijevic Petar , Stojanovic Bojan , Jakovljevic Stefan , Markovic Nenad , Zaric Milan , Canovic Petar , Nesic Jelena , Zornic Nenad
Published: December 2023

Intensive care units (ICUs) are expert hospital areas that provide treatment and 24 h care for people who are very sick. Sepsis represents a serious, severe condition and it can lead to septic shock and multiple organ dysfunction syndromes and is one of the most common reasons for patients’ hospitalization in ICUs. We wanted to explore the prognostic values of interleukin (IL) 33, soluble suppression of tumorigenicity 2 (sST2), IL 27, and galectin 3 in critically-ill patients. We assumed that these parameters in combination or alone could predict mortality in ICU patients. This research represents a clinical non-randomized prospective study, performed at the Medical Military Academy, a tertiary care hospital in Belgrade, Serbia. The patients were divided in four groups: patients with sepsis (peritonitis, pancreatitis, trauma) and patients without sepsis (trauma). Total number of patients enrolled in the study was 151 and average years of patients were 56.48. The values greater than the cut-off were the predictors of mortality. The IL-33, IL-27 as well as galectin-3 can successfully predict the outcome of critically-ill patients in ICUs. The sST2, cannot predict death in critically-ill patients as a single prognostic factor. However, the combination of at least two biomarkers: IL-33, sST2, IL-27, and galectin-3, gives very significant results in predicting the outcome in patients admitted to ICUs.
Climate Characteristics of the Illyrian Phytogeographic Area
Authors: Vojniković Sead , Balić Besim , Višnjić Ćemal , Neumann Mathias
Published: December 2023

The first ecological research in the Illyrian phytogeographic area, located on the Balkan peninsula in south-eastern Europe, dates back to the early 20th century. Traditionally, the Illyrian phytogeographic area includes Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Croatia and parts of Slovenia. Due to climate change, more available data and new measurement techniques, the Illyrian phytogeographic area may have shifted northwards to the southern Alps and parts of Austria. In this study we have analysed climate as an important ecological variable for delineating the Illyrian phytogeographic area using precipitation and air temperature from 75 climatological stations in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Slovenia and Austria (Carinthia). Our statistical analysis suggests, that there are significant differences in the analysed climate parameters across the countries, suggesting that sub-sections may already exist within the extent of the Illyrian phytogeographic area.
Evaluation of serum gamma-glutamyl transferase among patients with coronary artery disease in Erbil city
Authors: Neemat Shadan , Y. Muhammad Amin Kamaran
Published: December 2023

Background and objective: The leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally is coronary artery disease (CAD). One of the recent new parameters for evaluating CAD is Serum GGT, which has been shown to be a predictor of coronary artery status irrespective of the traditional cardiovascular risk variables. This study aimed to evaluate and assess the correlation between serum GGT and other variables among patients with CAD in comparison with healthy subjects. Methods: A case-control prospective study. Subjects were grouped into Group I (CAD patients-117 individuals) and Group II (healthy Subjects-83 individuals) based on their Coronary Angiographic profile at surgical specialty Hospital-Cardiac Center-Erbil/Iraq. Parameters of S. GGT, S. total cholesterol, S.HDL-C, S.LDL-C, S. VLDL-C, and S.TG, S. (25)OH vitamin D, serum troponin T, S.CK-MB, and CRP were assessed for both groups. Results: The study population included 58% of male and 42% of female participants, with an age range of 30-77, with a mean of 56.13± 10.5 years old. The Pearson’s correlation coefficient of serum GGT with other variables showed that the relation between serum GGT with VLDL-C, CRP, and Triglyceride among CAD patients was found to be a weakly positive correlation and statistically significant (r=0.3, P = 0.004), (r=0.2, P = 0.031), and (r=0.3, P = 0.007) respectively. Conclusion: The present study showed that S.GGT as a new potential biochemical marker for preclinical atherosclerosis, would be a useful and important marker for assessing and evaluating risk factors of coronary artery disease and to further evaluations for CAD.
Alpha-Band Lateralization and Microsaccades Elicited by Exogenous Cues Do Not Track Attentional Orienting
Authors: Balestrieri Elio , Michel René , Busch Niko A.
Published: December 2023

We explore the world by constantly shifting our focus of attention toward salient stimuli and then disengaging from them in search of new ones. The alpha rhythm (8–13 Hz) has been suggested as a pivotal neural substrate of these attentional shifts, due to its local synchronization and desynchronization that suppress irrelevant cortical areas and facilitate relevant areas, a phenomenon called alpha lateralization. Whether alpha lateralization tracks the focus of attention from orienting toward a salient stimulus to disengaging from it is still an open question. We addressed it by leveraging the phenomenon of inhibition of return (IOR), consisting of an initial facilitation in response times (RTs) for stimuli appearing at an exogenously cued location, followed by a suppression of that location. Our behavioral data from human participants showed a typical IOR effect with both early facilitation and subsequent inhibition. In contrast, alpha lateralized in the cued direction after the behavioral facilitation effect and never re-lateralized compatibly with the behavioral inhibition. Furthermore, we analyzed the interaction between alpha lateralization and microsaccades: while alpha was lateralized toward the cued location, microsaccades were mostly oriented away from it. Crucially, the two phenomena showed a significant positive correlation. These results indicate that alpha lateralization reflects primarily the processing of salient stimuli, challenging the view that alpha lateralization is directly involved in exogenous attentional orienting per se. We discuss the relevance of the present findings for an oculomotor account of alpha lateralization as a modulator of cortical excitability in preparation of a saccade.
Neuroimaging Signatures of Metacognitive Improvement in Sensorimotor Timing
Authors: Bader Farah , Wiener Martin
Published: December 2023

Error monitoring is an essential human ability underlying learning and metacognition. In the time domain, humans possess a remarkable ability to learn and adapt to temporal intervals, yet the neural mechanisms underlying this are not well understood. Recently, we demonstrated that humans exhibit improvements in sensorimotor time estimates when given the chance to incorporate feedback from a previous trial (Bader and Wiener, 2021), suggesting that humans are metacognitively aware of their own timing errors. To test the neural basis of this metacognitive ability, human participants of both sexes underwent fMRI while they performed a visual temporal reproduction task with randomized suprasecond intervals (1.5-6s). Crucially, each trial was repeated following feedback, allowing a “re-do” to learn from the successes or errors in the initial trial. Behaviorally, we replicated our previous finding that subjects improve their performance on re-do trials despite the feedback being temporally uninformative (i.e. early or late). For neuroimaging, we observed a dissociation between estimating and reproducing time intervals, with the former more likely to engage regions associated with the default mode network (DMN), including the superior frontal gyri, precuneus, and posterior cingulate, whereas the latter activated regions associated traditionally with the “Timing Network” (TN), including the supplementary motor area (SMA), precentral gyrus, and right supramarginal gyrus. Notably, greater DMN involvement was observed in Re-do trials. Further, the extent of the DMN was greater on re-do trials, whereas for the TN it was more constrained. Finally, Task-based connectivity between these networks demonstrated higher inter-network correlation on initial trials, but primarily when estimating trials, whereas on re-do trials communication was higher during reproduction. Overall, these results suggest the DMN and TN work in concert to mediate subjective awareness of one’s sense of time for the purpose of improving timing performance.

Significance StatementA finely tuned sense of time perception is imperative for everyday motor actions (e.g., hitting a baseball). Timing self-regulation requires correct assessment and updating duration estimates if necessary. Using a modified version of a classical task of time measurement, we explored the neural regions involved in error detection, time awareness, and learning to time. Reinforcing the role of the SMA in measuring temporal information and providing evidence of co-activation with the DMN, this study demonstrates that the brain overlays sensorimotor timing with a metacognitive awareness of its passage.
Política de Gobierno como generador del conflicto: Criminalidad seguridad y percepción de inseguridad en las ciudades de Bogotá, Medellín y Cali 2020-2021
Authors: González Monguí Pablo Elías , Carvajal Martínez Jorge Enrique
Published: December 2023

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La caja árabe de la Catedral de Ávila: un ejemplo singular de metalistería islámica medieval
Authors: Jiménez Gadea Javier , Martínez Enamorado Virgilio
Published: December 2023

La Catedral de Ávila conserva una pequeña caja rectangular metálica, dorada y con incrustaciones de plata y esmalte negro, decorada íntegramente con motivos geométricos, vegetales, figurados y epigrá
características estilísticas del arte islámico medieval. Fue hallada circunstancialmente en el año 2020, no teniendo constancia de su procedencia ni fecha de ingreso. Es una pieza única y excepcional, que se añade con voz propia al catálogo de piezas metálicas medievales, de cobre o sus aleaciones, nieladas y damasquinadas en plata, con leyendas árabes, existente en el panorama museístico y del coleccionismo internacional.
La función originaria de la caja fue la de estuche para el cálamo y escribanía portátil (en árabe maqlama, aunque en la literatura científica se ha generalizado el nombre persa de qalamd?n). Se estudia aquí su lugar de producción, autoría, función y significado, así como las posibles vías de llegada a Ávila.
Concentración de Alumnado Migrante en Santiago (Chile) y Discursos Institucionales: Diferencias con el Caso Español
Authors: Lubián Carlos , Córdoba Claudia
Published: December 2023

En el contexto de un creciente incremento de población migrante en Chile, analizamos la desigual distribución y problemática incorporación de este alumnado en escuelas de Santiago, donde el fenómeno de la segregación escolar alcanza mayor magnitud. Mediante una metodología de análisis mixta –cuantitativa, geográfica y cualitativa– presentamos una radiografía de la concentración escolar en el “Gran Santiago”, calculada a través de indicadores de segregación, y llevamos a cabo un análisis discursivo mediante entrevistas a responsables de centros de alta concentración (CAC) sobre las razones de esta concentración. Finalmente, comparamos los resultados con un estudio de caso similar llevado a cabo en España. Los resultados apuntan, en primer lugar, a unos niveles de segregación muy elevados y heterogéneos en la capital chilena; en segundo lugar, a una localización desigual de las escuelas en el territorio, que dibuja y reproduce niveles de concentración escolar desiguales por comuna; en tercer lugar, aparecen CAC encargados de la escolarización de alumnado migrante que reproducen dinámicas de concentración escolar institucionalizada. La discusión de resultados en clave comparada sugiere diferencias en la concepción de la concentración escolar, más normativizada, funcional y aceptada en el caso chileno, probablemente como resultado de lógicas de mercado educativo más arraigadas
La diáspora saharaui en Canarias: diasporización, movilización y contestación
Authors: Cabrera Abu Nasara
Published: December 2023

La diáspora saharaui asentada en Canarias se ha ido conformando a medida que la población saharaui se asentara en el archipiélago a raíz de la salida de España del territorio saharaui en 1975. Este articulo persigue caracterizar el proceso de diasporización de la población saharaui en Canarias y su movilización y contestación ante dos momentos relevantes para la cuestión saharaui: la firma del acuerdo de pesca entre Marruecos y la Unión Europea en 2019, tras el fallo del Tribunal de Justicia de la Unión Europea en 2018; y el giro del ejecutivo español sobre el Sáhara en marzo de 2022.
Digital Mystery: Enhanced Active Citizens’ Participation Through Information Communications Technology in Community Policing
Authors: Kumwenda David , Tembo Mavuto , Mphande Chrispin , Nundwe Vincent , Chazema Thokozani Andrew
Published: December 2023

The ubiquitous proliferation of mobile phones has made digital surveillance and monitoring both accessible and desirable. Citizens have actively engaged in managing their neighborhood security.  The study aims to analyze participatory policing practices that citizens do in their neighbourhood security management and apply Information Communication Technology. To achieve the research objective, the study used mixed methods exploratory sequential design. Qualitative purposive sampling targeted four focus group discussions and one key informant guided by an interview guide. The household survey used randomly sampled 432 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS version 20. Qualitative data analysis follows transcribing, coding, and grouping into sub-themes, themes answering to research objectives. Results show citizens engage neighborhood patrols and they feel responsible and are satisfied with level of participation. Almost every person counts and this includes every gender in securing neighborhoods. Citizens use SMS seconded by WhatsApp and least Telephone calls for participatory activities, have revolutionized communication for (i) reporting and requesting transport on security information to police and CPF members, (ii) for organizing patrols and (iii) mobilizing help during participatory activities in the neighborhoods. ICTs have greatly enhanced citizens' participation in managing security within their neighbourhoods because they accorded real-time updates, real-time responses, and real-time capacity to access prompt assistance through virtual context. Virtual platform accorded wide formal and non-formal communication with authorities and increased social cohesion, collective efficacy and community guardianship improving prevention of crime and the arresting of suspects.