bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19: LOS PRIMEROS 40 DÍAS DE UNA PANDEMIA
Authors: Hernández Celsy , Garcés María Fátima , Hernández Elizabeth
Published: December 2024

De acuerdo con la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS), una pandemia es la propagación mundial de una nueva enfermedad, que se produce cuando surge un nuevo agente infeccioso, que se propaga por el mundo y la mayoría de las personas no tienen inmunidad contra él. Desde la constitución de la OMS, como agencia de la Organización de las Naciones Unidas (ONU), encargada de velar por la salud en el mundo, el 7 de abril de 1948; hasta nuestros días, han sido declaradas tres pandemias en el mundo; la pandemia del VIH-SIDA (desde 1981 hasta nuestros días), la pandemia de la gripe A H1N1 (2009-2010) y la pandemia COVID-19. En esta revisión documental retrospectiva se expone una cronología de los hechos más relevantes ocurridos en el mundo, desde el surgimiento de la Enfermedad por Coronavirus 2019, hasta cumplirse los primeros cuarenta días “una cuarentena”; luego que la COVID-19 fuera declarada por la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS), como una pandemia el 11 de marzo de 2020.
PANDEMIA DE COVID-19 EN VENEZUELA: LA PRIMERA CUARENTENA
Authors: Hernández Celsy , Garcés María Fátima , Hernández Elizabeth
Published: December 2024

El 11 de marzo de 2020, la OMS declara el COVID-19 como una pandemia, hasta la fecha se reportan 118.319 casos confirmados y 4.292 fallecidos, en 114 países. Para ese momento en el mundo, 81 países no han notificado ningún caso, entre ellos Venezuela. En esta revisión documental retrospectiva, se expone una breve cronología de los hechos más resaltantes ocurridos en nuestro país, entre la declaración de la pandemia de COVID-19 por la OMS, y el 13 de abril de 2020, día en que se cumplen los 30 del decreto del “Estado de Alarma” dictado por el Ejecutivo Nacional, y publicado en Gaceta Oficial Extraordinaria N° 6.519; es decir, culminó la “Primera cuarentena” en Venezuela.
Does Convergence of Law and Morality Exist? Polemics of H. L. A. Hart with R. Dworkin
Authors: Andrzejewski Maciej
Published: December 2024

This article addresses the relationship between law and morality, questioning whether there is
a convergence of the two. An analysis of H. L. A. Hart’s critical positivism in the context of the
neoliberal philosophy of law R. Dworkin was made, in view of the possibility someone has to live
in complete separation of law from morality. The above considerations must be accompanied by
reflection on the so-called hard cases, as well as reflections on the contemporary implications of
law and morality.
Acquisition and Loss of the Right of Patronage according to the 1917 Code of Canon Law
Authors: Pankiewicz Ryszard
Published: December 2024

The present article is a brief analysis of the acquisition and loss of the right of patronage as described in the provisions of the 1917 Code of Canon Law. The author brings to the readers’ attention the specific nature of the institution of patronage, which was not only ecclesiastical, due to the fact that it was regulated by canon law, but also civil, since the right of patronage to a large extent concerned lay believers and was also regulated by secular law. As founders of churches and benefices, patrons, or church protectors, along with those who acquired the right of patronage later on, occupied an important position in the system of church financing in the period described, even though the ecclesiastical legislators had intended to remove this institution from the legal order altogether. For this reason, it is important to explain how the members of the Catholic Church could acquire this right or be deprived of it.
The Status of Churches under Public Law in the Czech Republic and their Transition to Financial Self-Sustainability
Authors: PŘIBYL Stanislav
Published: December 2024

Determining whether churches and religious societies in the Czech Republic are subjects of public or private law is a challenging question in confessional law. The privileged status under public law by no means implies a uniform legal regime for the various public corporations. In the Czech Republic, churches enter the arena of public law; the state, for example, guarantees the right to teach religion in public schools, co-finances the operation of church schools, recognizes the civil validity of marriage, respects the seal of the confessional, pays the salaries of hospital chaplains, and allows and pays for the activities of military and prison chaplains. However, especially the Catholic Church was long burdened with the struggle for the restitution of church property seized by the communist regime. The issue was settled with the adoption of the Act on Property Settlement with Churches and Religious Societies. Since 2013, the law has no longer funded the operation of church headquarters as well as all clerical salaries. The churches also recovered their lost properities and obtained financial compensation for those properties that could no longer be reclaimed. In addition, churches are still subsidised by decreasing amounts each year to allow for a smooth transition to financial self-sustainability. This, however, has led to a situation in which churches are partially losing their public law character. The article also identifies the challenges the Catholic Church in particular has to overcome in order to stabilise its new system of financing.
Rehabilitation and Reuse Planning of Mine Abandoned Land
Authors:   Shaanxi Land Engineering Construction Group Co., Ltd., Qu Shaodong
Published: December 2024

The rational use of land resources and the protection of ecological environment are problems that cannot be ignored in the development of human society, and the ecological environment is the development foundation on which human beings depend. In recent years, with the intensification of industrialization, the scale of exploitation of mineral resources has gradually expanded, which inevitably leads to the destruction of land resources and ecosystems. Therefore, it is particularly important for the restoration and reuse of land resources. This paper discusses many problems of geological environment in the process of mine development, puts forward the response measures of land restoration, and analyzes the extension of land function, land transformation and improvement of ecological environment, so as to provide reference for the restoration and reuse of land resources.
Faste tværfaglige teams i ældreplejen: En minual til realisering af tværfaglige teams
Authors: Møller Troels , de Haas Henning , Dueholm Trine , Møller Hanne , Juul-Olsen Randi , Seeberg Kirsten Baggesgaard
Published: December 2024

Den 30. januar 2024 bekendtgjorde statsministeren, at “Ældrereform skal sikre den største "frisættelse af den offentlige sektor i velfærdssamfundets historie". Det lyder forjættende med frisættelse, men på det praktiske niveau rejser det en række spørgsmål: Hvad er formålet med at frisætte? Hvem er det, der sættes fri? Hvordan vil vi frisætte? Er der dilemmaer ved at frisætte? Ældrereformen handler om frisættelse til at skabe en endnu bedre ældrepleje, hvor fokus blandt andet er helhedspleje. Helhedsplejen betyder, at hjælp og pleje til borgerne tilpasses den enkelte borger udbudt i forløb. Dette sker i dialog mellem borger, medarbejder og pårørende. Der kan beskrives forskellige frisættelsesniveauer fra den centrale ambition ud til den enkelte medarbejder: Kommunen, som forvaltning, der frisættes for lovkrav. Institutionen og organisation, der frisættes for kommunens stramme regler og retningslinjer. Det enkelte team frisættes fx som selvorganiserende team. Den enkelte medarbejder frisættes fra procedurer og retningslinjer.

Denne publikation, som vi har valgt at kalde en minual, fokuserer på realiseringen af faste tværfaglige teams i ældreplejen. Faste tværfaglige teams er valgt som et nøglebegreb i omlægningen til frisættelse og helhedspleje. Målgruppen for minualen er teamledere og medarbejdere indenfor sundhed og omsorg, der i praksis står med opgaven, om at flytte organiseringen over i faste tværfaglige teams. I publikationen vil vi forsøge at give bud på, hvordan man kunne gribe processen an og praktiske svar på de mange spørgsmål, der kan opstå undervejs.
Lancashire Trade, University Work: The University of Manchester and the Regional Economy, c.1930–39
Authors: Godden Chris
Published: December 2024

This article explores some overlooked aspects of the University of Manchester’s efforts in the 1930s to support Lancashire’s industry and commerce. Two examples are considered: ‘realistic economic research’ conducted by the Economics Research Section into Lancashire’s post-war economic problems, and the reintroduction of Chinese studies aimed at supporting Lancashire cotton merchants. While the successes of both endeavours were limited, the article concludes by briefly considering the legacy of such efforts on the university’s research philosophy, particularly through the introduction of the Simon Fund in 1944.
Establishment and Application of Passenger Flow Safety Management Evaluation Model with Entropy Weight and TOPSIS for Metro Stations
Authors: YU Heng
Published: December 2024

As a critical component of urban transportation, metro systems demand rigorous passenger flow safety management. This study proposes a comprehensive decision-making analysis method for metro station passenger flow safety management by integrating the entropy weight and TOPSIS methods. It aims to develop an evaluation model that accurately assesses and ranks the safety management practices of metro stations. To achieve this, 17 indicators related to station scale, safety management equipment, safety or security measures, investment in safety management and the effects of passenger flow management are selected to form an evaluation indicator system. The entropy weight method is employed to allocate weights to these indicators, reflecting their interrelatedness and importance. Subsequently, the TOPSIS method is used to establish a decision model that calculates the closeness of each station’s management practice to an optimal plan, allowing for the ranking of different stations’ safety management practices. The algorithms are developed and optimised using MATLAB, enabling efficient calculation and analysis. A case study involving real metro stations is conducted to validate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed evaluation method. The results demonstrate that this model provides an accurate assessment of metro station passenger safety management and offers decision-makers clear directions for improvement.
Mapping mitochondrial aging
Authors: Bitto Alessandro
Published: December 2024

Measuring mitochondrial respiration in frozen tissue samples provides the first comprehensive atlas of how aging affects mitochondrial function in mice.
Characterization of the cellular components of mouse collecting lymphatic vessels reveals that lymphatic muscle cells are the innate pacemaker cells regulating lymphatic contractions
Authors: Zawieja SD , Pea GA , Broyhill SE , Patro A , Bromert KH , Norton CE , Kim HJ , Sivasankaran SK , Li M , Castorena-Gonzalez JA , Drumm BT , Davis MJ
Published: December 2024

Collecting lymphatic vessels (cLVs) exhibit spontaneous contractions with a pressure-dependent frequency, but the identity of the lymphatic pacemaker cell is still debated. By analogy to pacemakers in the GI and lower urinary tracts, proposed cLV pacemaker cells include interstitial cells of Cajal like cells (ICLC) or the lymphatic muscle (LMCs) cells themselves. Here we combined immunofluorescence and scRNAseq analyses with electrophysiological methods to examine the cellular constituents of the mouse cLV wall and assess whether any cell type exhibited morphological and functional processes characteristic of pacemaker cells: a continuous if not contiguous network integrated into the electrical syncytium; spontaneous Ca
2+
transients; and depolarization-induced propagated contractions. We employed inducible Cre (iCre) mouse models routinely used to target these specific cell populations including: c-kitCreER

T2

to target ICLC;

PdgfrβCreER
T2

to target pericyte-like cells;

PdgfrαCreER
TM

to target CD34
+
adventitial cells and ICLC; and

Myh11CreER
T2

to target LMCs directly. These specific inducible Cre lines were crossed to the fluorescent reporter ROSA26mT/mG, the genetically encoded Ca
2+
sensor GCaMP6f, and the light-activated cation channel rhodopsin2 (ChR2). c-KitCreER

T2

labeled both a sparse population of LECs and round adventitial cells that responded to the mast cell activator compound 48-80.

PdgfrβCreER
T2

drove recombination in both adventitial cells and LMCs, limiting its power to discriminate a pericyte-specific population.

PdgfrαCreER
TM

labeled a large population of interconnected, oak leaf-shaped cells primarily along the adventitial surface of the vessel. Of these cells, only LMCs consistently, but heterogeneously, displayed spontaneous Ca
2+
events during the diastolic period of the contraction cycle, and whose frequency was modulated in a pressure-dependent manner. Optogenetic depolarization through the expression of ChR2 under control of

Myh11CreER
T2

, but not

PdgfrαCreER
TM

or c-KitCreER

T2

, resulted in propagated contractions upon photo-stimulation. Membrane potential recordings in LMCs demonstrated that the rate of diastolic depolarization significantly correlated with contraction frequency. These findings support the conclusion that LMCs, or a subset of LMCs, are responsible for mouse cLV pacemaking.
Distribution and habitat use of deep-diving cetaceans in the central and north-eastern North Atlantic
Authors: Ramirez-Martinez Nadya C. , Víkingsson Gísli A. , Øien Nils I. , Mikkelsen Bjarni , Gunnlaugsson Thorvaldur , Hammond Philip S.
Published: December 2024

Major changes in the distribution of some cetaceans have been observed coincident with changing oceanography of the North Atlantic in the last 30 years. This study aimed to improve understanding of the underlying ecological drivers of any changes in deep-diving cetacean distribution. We used data from two series of summer surveys (in Iceland-Faroes and Norway) to model density of sperm (Physeter macrocephalus), long-finned pilot (Globicephala melas) and northern bottlenose (Hyperoodon ampullatus) whales as a function of static (relief), physical, and biological oceanographic covariates using GAMs. The best models, based on a robust model selection framework, were used to predict distribution. The study period was divided into two periods, 1987‑1989 and 1998-2015, based on environmental changes in the area and data availability. The common covariates that best explained these three species’ distributions (in both periods) were bathymetric variables and SST. The selected dynamic temperature-related covariates for sperm and pilot whales were for spring, but for bottlenose whales were for summer. Summer relationships were also found for the three species for the other dynamic variables, except spring chlorophyll-a for bottlenose whales. The difference in seasonal relationships for bottlenose whales may be related to a previously suggested north-south summer migration. As expected, the predicted high-use areas for all three species were deep waters, with some overlap among them in the central Norwegian Sea, and the Central North Atlantic, including the Irminger Sea. Differences in distribution likely reflect differences in prey. Changes in distribution between the two periods appear more as a range expansion than a shift, which could result from an increase in suitable habitat due to warming waters. This new knowledge will help improve understanding of how these species may respond over this wide area to a changing environment and inform their conservation.
Hög diversitet i styrningen av marin biodiversitet i Finland
Authors: Grönberg Carolina , Henriksson Linnéa , Tynkkynen Nina
Published: December 2024

Denna artikel undersöker styrningen av marin biodiversitet i Finland, med särskilt fokus på ekosystemansatsen. Trots att Finland har fastställt flera nationella biodiversitetsstrategier och varit en föregångare i europeisk miljöpolitik, kvarstår utmaningar för att stoppa biodiversitetsförlusten i havet. Hållbar styrning av marina naturresurser är av väsentlig betydelse pga. naturresursernas stora ekonomiska värde, de viktiga ekosystemtjänster som marin biodiversitet möjliggör och för att inte glömma havets egenvärde. Genom en dokumentstudie kartlägger artikeln lagar, direktiv och policyverktyg som styr förvaltningen av marin biodiversitet i Finland och diskuterar styrningens effekter och utmaningar. Därtill identifieras de aktörer som är delaktiga i förvaltningen av marin biodiversitet. Resultaten visar att styrningen av marin biodiversitet är centrerad till statsförvaltningens nationella och regionala förvaltningsenheter medan ett ökat samarbete med den lokala nivån skulle kunna vara en positiv utveckling i enlighet med ekosystemansatsens andra princip. Vidare illustrerar resultaten förvaltningens komplexitet i form av ett flertal rättsakter på både internationell och nationell nivå samt tiotals offentliga, främst statliga, aktörer som deltar i marin biodiversitetsstyrning. Slutsatserna antyder att det finns brist på lagstadgat ansvar för marin biodiversitet på den lokala förvaltningsnivån, brist på mekanismer för att inkludera intressenter och slutligen att styrkan och svagheten i förvaltningen av marin biodiversitet grundar sig i styrningens höga diversitet.
Reformen av lagen om domstolsavgifter i Finland – förvaltningsdomstolarnas samhällsfunktioner fullgörs inte längre på avsett sätt
Authors: Launiala Mika , Tammenlehto Laura
Published: December 2024

I Finland trädde den nya lagen om domstolsavgifter (1455/2015) i kraft i början av 2016. Domstolsavgifterna minst fördubblades och vissa förfaranden som tidigare varit avgiftsfria blev avgiftsbelagda. Syftet med reformen var att främja tillgången till rättslig prövning, förbättra avgifternas kostnadseffektivitet, minska uppenbart omotiverad användning av domstolstjänster, säkerställa ett rimligt förhållande mellan domstolsavgifterna och kostnaderna för olika domstolsförfaranden samt uppnå ett enkelt och tydligt avgiftssystem. En konsekvensbedömning av reformen genomfördes mellan 2022 och 2023 och visade att målen i stort sett hade uppnåtts. Reformen har emellertid en oförutsedd negativ inverkan: domstolarnas samhällsfunktioner uppfylls inte längre på ett tillfredsställande sätt. Nedan analyseras mer i detalj hur detta återspeglas i förvaltningsprocessen vid de regionala förvaltningsdomstolarna och Högsta förvaltningsdomstolen. Artikeln är en rättsvetenskapligt riktad analys som kompletteras med empiriska data. Som samhällspåverkan syftar artikeln att få de tjänstemän som ansvarar för lagberedningen att uppmärksamma och erkänna det problem som lyfts fram i artikeln och att vidta nödvändiga åtgärder för att eliminera det. Som en åtgärd föreslogs att avgifterna i vissa kategorier av mål ska reduceras avsevärt för att domstolarna ska få en tillräcklig täckning av alla typer av mål för att kunna fullgöra sina samhällsfunktioner på ett ändamålsenligt sätt.
Modeling the effects of water temperature on the population dynamics of Galba viatrix and infection by Fasciola hepatica: a two-year survey in Andean Patagonia, Argentina
Authors: Soler Paula , Gurevitz Juan Manuel , Morales Juan Manuel , Larroza Marcela
Published: December 2024

Background

The trematode parasite Fasciola hepatica (liver fluke) can infect livestock, wild mammals, and humans, generating serious economic losses worldwide. Aquatic or amphibious snails of the Lymnaeidae family are the intermediate host of this parasite. Both snail population dynamics and parasite development are closely associated with temperature, although most field studies have recorded air temperature rather than water temperature. Our aim was to statistically model the population dynamics of lymnaeid snails and their infection by F. hepatica under natural environmental conditions in Northwest Andean Patagonia.

Methods

For two years, we sampled snails monthly in four bodies of water, while registering water and air temperature hourly, and assessing F. hepatica infection in snails. Hierarchical Bayesian modeling allowed us to estimate the functional relationship between water temperature and population growth, the probability of detecting snails, and infection by F. hepatica.

Results

A total of 1,411 Galba viatrix snails were collected, identified, and analyzed for F. hepatica infection. All sites showed seasonal variation in the number of snails collected and in water temperature as well as sharp variations in snail counts between surveys adjacent in time. The hierarchical model revealed that water temperature acts, at least, at two different time scales: water temperature at the time of sampling determines snail detection probability, whereas the average water temperature between sampling dates affects lymnaeid population growth. We found maximum F. hepatica prevalences in snails of 40% (2/5 and 4/10), followed by 33% (65/197). These are the highest prevalences recorded in G. viatrix populations in Argentina to date. Our modeling evidenced that the positive effects of water temperature on infection probability increases with snail size and prevalence on the previous survey, while previous prevalence strongly enhances the effects of snail size.

Conclusions

Our results underscore the high temporal and spatial variability in the population of snails and the prevalence of F. hepatica, as well as the major impact temperature has on detecting snails. Our models provide quantifications of the effects of water temperature on the population growth of G. viatrix, its detection, and infection under natural field conditions. These are crucial steps towards generating mechanistic models of F. hepatica transmission that would facilitate the design and simulation of potential interventions based on treatments and on environmental and livestock management, taking into account the specific characteristics of each region.
Exploring the potential role of ENPP2 in polycystic ovary syndrome and endometrial cancer through bioinformatic analysis
Authors: Zhang Xumin , Liu Jianrong , Bai Chunmei , Li Yang , Fan Yanxin
Published: December 2024

Background

Growing evidence indicates a significant correlation between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometrial carcinoma (EC); nevertheless, the fundamental molecular mechanisms involved continue to be unclear.

Methods

Initially, differential analysis, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, and support vector machine-recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) algorithms were employed to identify candidate genes associated with ferroptosis in PCOS. Subsequently, the TCGA-UCEC data were utilized to pinpoint the core gene. Then, the expression of ENPP2 in granulosa cells and endometrium of PCOS was validated using real-time PCR (RT-qPCR). Additionally, we investigated the role of ENPP2 in the progression from PCOS to EC through western blotting (WB), colony formation assay, cell scratch assay, transwell assay, and immunofluorescence (IF). Subsequently, ENPP2 gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) analyses were conducted to identify common pathways involved in PCOS and EC, which were then verified by RT-qPCR. Finally, immune infiltration and the tumor microenvironment (TME) were explored to examine the involvement of ENPP2 in EC progression.

Results

The datasets TCGA-UCEC (pertaining to EC), GSE34526, GSE137684, and GSE6798 (related to PCOS) were procured and subjected to analysis. The gene ENPP2 has been recognized as the shared element connecting PCOS and EC. Next, we observed a significant downregulation of ENPP2 expression in the granulosa cells in PCOS compared to the normal patients, while an upregulation of ENPP2 expression was observed in the endometrium of hyperandrogenic PCOS patients relative to the normal. In vitro, the WB revealed that 5-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) upregulated ENPP2 expression in Ishikawa and HEC-1-A cells. Additionally, we found that ENPP2 promoted the proliferation, migration, and invasion of Ishikawa and HEC-1-A cells. Subsequently, we discovered that overexpressed ENPP2 may lead to an increase in CYP19A1 (aromatase) and AR mRNA level. IF demonstrated that ENPP2 increased the expression of AR, suggesting a regulatory role for ENPP2 in hormonal response within PCOS and EC. Our findings indicated a significant correlation between ENPP2 expression and the modulation of immune responses.
Optimización de productividad en construcción con madera: edificio en altura de uso mixto con vivienda de interés social en Curicó
Authors:   , Urrutia Garcés Vicente
Published: December 2024

En el contexto actual, la industria de la construcción enfrenta un doble desafío: la creciente preocupación por el medioambiente y la persistente crisis de déficit habitacional. Esta investigación aborda estas problemáticas entrelazadas mediante la optimización de un edificio de viviendas de carácter social en altura a través del empleo de elementos industrializados de madera.Mediante el estudio de la gestión de la construcción se desarrolla una metodología que da paso al diseño de una edificación en altura, cuya densidad y uso mixto permite dar cabida a una heterogeneidad de usuarios e integración social.A través de examinar la viabilidad técnica y ambiental de esta propuesta, con el objetivo de fomentar un enfoque más sostenible y eficiente en la construcción de viviendas, se propone una optimización de la productividad en la industria mediante la comprensión de variables del dimensionamiento de los elementos constructivos, la estructura que componen y la logística que conllevan.
Comparison of Analytical Performance of Dry Chemistry Analysers Vitros 5600 and Vitros 250: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Sindhu Edakkadath Raghavan , Zacharias Emilin , Mini Keezhpally Soman , Bindu Therayangalath , Padippurayil  , Ajith Thekkoottuparambil Ananthanarayanan
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Maintaining the reliability of clinical laboratory results is essential for accurate diagnosis and monitoring treatment outcomes. Due to poor awareness regarding the statistical evaluation of Internal Quality Control (IQC) results from two analysers, most laboratories in tertiary care centres do not conduct comparative studies, which may lead to erroneous results.

Aim: To compare the performance of two analysers Vitros 5600 and Vitros 250 (which utilise the same techniques and methods of estimation), within the same clinical chemistry laboratory, rather than relying solely on daily monitoring of each analyser. Additionally, it emphasises the importance of periodic statistical analysis of Bio-Rad Independent Quality Control (IQC) samples.

Materials and Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted at the Division of Biochemistry, Malabar Cancer Centre, Kannur, Kerala, India from July 2022 to October 2022. Two levels of IQC samples were run daily on the Vitros 5600 (reference equipment) and Vitros 250 (test equipment), both of which are integrated dry chemistry fully automated analyser using the same batch of reagents. After each run, the acceptability of the control values was verified against the laboratory control limits according to Westgard multiple rules. If results from an analyser fell outside the acceptable range, the analyser was calibrated and the IQC procedure was performed again. Acceptable values were recorded for comparison.

Results: The superiority of the reference analyser in terms of analytical performance was evidenced by consistently lower Coefficient of Variation (CV%) values across multiple analytes. However, a negative correlation was observed for phosphorus at level two in Analyser 2, indicating potential systematic bias in measurements for this specific analyte. Phosphorus at Level 1 showed a correlation coefficient of 0.576 (p-value=0.008), while phosphorus at Level 2 had a correlation coefficient of -0.758 (p-value <0.0001). Bland-Altman analysis indicated minimal mean differences between the analysers.

Conclusion: The Vitros 5600 (reference equipment) performed well, with minimal deviations in results, underscoring its potential for accurate clinical testing. The present study highlights the importance of periodic statistical analysis to compare the performance of two analysers in a clinical chemistry laboratory, rather than relying solely on daily quality checks.
Yield and Economic Analysis of Mothbean under Rainfed Condition of Villupuram District, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Ganapathy S. , Shibi S. , Jayakumar J. , Murugan P. P.
Published: December 2024

Field demonstrations were conducted on drought tolerant short duration moth bean variety with improved production technologies by Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), Villupuram, Tamil Nadu for increase the productivity and sustainability. A total of 15 field demonstrations were conducted out at farmer’s field by introducing short duration drought tolerant moth bean variety TMV 1during Rabi2023-24. The farmers are using local variety for their cultivation used as the check variety (farmer’s practice) for comparison. An average yield of 1060kgs/ha was recorded from TMV 1 demonstrations which showed 12.67 % increase over the farmers practice (941.12 kg/ha). The farmershave obtained additional revenue of Rs. 14,110 /ha from varietal demonstrations with improved production practices, which may motivate the farmers to adopt TMV 1 variety with the improved pulse production technologies. These type field demonstrations on introduction of short drought tolerant variety effectively influenced the attitudes, skills, and knowledge related to improved practices in pulses cultivation, fostering adoption. It also enhances the productivity and farmers income and improves the relationship between farmers and scientists.
Enhancing Reading Fluency of Seventh Grade Students: An Action Research
Authors: Kelzang
Published: December 2024

This action research study investigates the effectiveness of implementing choral reading pedagogy to improve reading fluency among seventh-grade students. Over a 12-week period, 28 students (13 female and 15 male) from a seven-grade class participated in the research in a middle school setting. The study employed action research, utilising both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Researcher used pre- and post-intervention assessments, observations, to measure the impact of choral reading on students’ reading fluency and engagement. Results indicated a significant improvement in reading fluency scores, with students demonstrating increased confidence and enthusiasm for reading activities. This study contributes to the growing body of literature supporting the use of choral reading as an effective strategy for enhancing reading fluency in middle school students.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Presenting with Cardiomyopathy and Neurological Decline: A Case Report
Authors: Sireesha Vankodoth , Nikitha Sunkari , Ramya Kaluvala , Nikshitha Manne , Rao T. Rama
Published: December 2024

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is a lethal, X-linked neuromuscular disorder caused by the absence of dystrophin protein, which is essential for muscle fiber integrity. It is one of the most severe types of inherited muscular dystrophies affecting approximately 1 in every 3,500 male births worldwide. The estimated prevalence rates of the most common forms of muscular dystrophy are 1 in 5,000 live male births for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). Being the most common and most severe type of muscular dystrophy, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) is caused by mutations in the X-linked dystrophin gene. Loss of dystrophin protein leads to recurrent myofiber damage, chronic inflammation, progressive fibrosis and dysfunction of muscle stem cells. The risk factors associated with DMD include family history, gender, muscle weakness, low BMI, poor lung function and genetic variation. Based on ambulation, the DMD Care Consideration working Group created a classification system for DMD patients. In most cases, there is a delay in motor development, resulting in wheelchair confinement after 3 years of disease and ultimately an early death from respiratory or cardiac issues. It is quite complicated to diagnose DMD due to the limited facilities of genetic testing and its high-cost. The accurate and early diagnosis of DMD plays an important role in effective patient management. In areas with limited facilities, the clinician should conform the DMD not only by anamnesis and clinical features, but also by taking a patient's history, testing for genes and detecting elevated creatine kinase and other transaminases in the lab, progressive motor weakness, myopathies on EMG is still the most significant finding of the illness. Although new treatments continue to strive for a cure for this life-threatening condition, treatment approaches include corticosteroid therapy, intermittent positive pressure breathing have improved function, ambulation, quality of life, and life expectancy. Here, we report a case of a 27 year’s male patient, who has DMD and exhibits notable cardiac, neurological and clinical symptoms.
Efficacy of Diatomaceous Earth and Silicic Acid on Leaf Quality and Biochemical Properties in Mulberry
Authors: Sapna J. S. , Banuprakash K. G. , Vinoda K. S. , Prakash N. B. , Naika Ramakrishna , Naveen D. V.
Published: December 2024

A study on ‘Diatomaceous earth (DE) and silicic acid as a source of silicon on mulberry leaf quality and biochemical attributes’ was conducted during 2022-24. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with thirteen treatment combinations and three replications. Diatomaceous earth (DE) was applied to soil in five split doses at 18 days after pruning (DAP) along with RDF and foliar silicic acid (FSA) spray was given at 28 DAP for five crops at varied levels. Observations were recorded at 30th, 45th and 60th DAP and pooled data of five crops were analysed. Among different treatments, combined application of 450 kg ha-1 DE + 4ml L−1 FSA (T10) recorded highest moisture content (73.45 ± 3.01 %), highest moisture retention capacity (77.62 ± 5.28 %), crude protein (22.50 ± 1.28 %), crude fibre (12.59 ± 0.42 %) and crude fat (4.76 ± 0.17 %) content whereas, T11 (600 kg ha-1 DE + 4ml L−1 FSA) exhibited maximum carbohydrate (19.87 ± 0.19 %), total phenols (15.46 ± 0.51 mg GAE g-1 dw), chlorophyll ‘a’ (1.58 ± 0.05 mg g-1), chlorophyll ‘b’ (0.98 ± 0.03 mg g-1), total chlorophyll (2.56 ± 0.02 mg g-1) and ash content (9.57 ± 0.21 %) in mulberry leaves. Further, T11 (600 kg ha-1 DE + 4ml L−1 FSA) and T8 (600 kg ha-1 DE + 2ml L−1 FSA) exhibited on par results with T10 for all the leaf biochemical attributes of mulberry.
Morphogenotyping of Cyclosa bifida (Arachnida: Araneidae) from Odisha, India
Authors: Panigrahi Subrat Kumar , Behera Binayak , Agasti Amisha , Kapat Kamalakanta , Buddhia Ankita , Parida Smruti Ranjan , Behera Raj Kumar , Nayak Nihar Ranjan
Published: December 2024

Morphogenotyping involves analyzing an individual's morphology and DNA sequences to identify structural and genetic differences. Among the arthropod group, the spider is the most diversified, primarily female, and solely predatory. The surveys were carried out in the morning, from 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM, and in evening from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM, well before darkness. With the help of identification keys and based on morphological features, all collected spiders were identified and made taxonomical positions. Then DNA was isolated from the single female captured C. bifida species. Quality was evaluated on 0.8 % Agarose Gel; a single band of high-molecular weight DNA has been observed. Isolated DNA was amplified with cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) gene Specific Primer (LCO 1490 and Chelicerate Reverse 2). The consensus sequence was generated   for each sample using BioEdit version 6.0.7 and were searched over the GenBank database using Basic Local Alignment Search Tool (BLAST) against the spider genomes previously presentin GenBank. The complete sequences were deposited in GenBank with accession no. PQ478048.1. This morphogenotyping investigation will demonstrate the need for additional research on several unidentified or perplexed spiders. Thus, research suggests that the bifida species found in West Bengal and Odisha are more genetically similar and closer to one another than those found in Kerala. These discrepancies would result from two distinct evolutionary pathways.
Correlational Effect between Orotracheal Intubation and Dental Changes: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Hirata Francielle Carneiro , Bottesini Victor Cavallaro , Calone Iris Sawazaki , Imparato José Carlos Pettorossi , Duarte Danilo Antonio
Published: December 2024

Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between prolonged orotracheal intubation and the onset of oral abnormalities, such as dental enamel defects, in preterm infants.
Study Design:  This was a cohort study. Therefore, it was conducted as a correlational, observational and prospective study.
Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit of University Hospital of Western Paraná (HUOP). The study was performed between December 2022 and July 2024.
Methodology: This was a prospective observational cohort study of 26 preterm infants, of whom 61.5% were boys and 38.5% were girls. The mean gestational age was 30.4 weeks, and the mean birth weight was 1,420.2 g. The infants were clinically monitored until eruption of the deciduous teeth, and data on neonatal factors, such as the time of intubation, and maternal factors, such as the type of delivery, were collected.
Results: Statistical analysis revealed that 26.9% of the babies had enamel defects, which affected mainly the maxillary incisors. There was a significant correlation between lower birth weight and longer duration of intubation, suggesting that lower birth weight babies tend to require longer ventilatory support, increasing the risk of enamel defects.
Conclusion: Prolonged intubation is a relevant factor for the development of dental abnormalities in preterm infants, highlighting the importance of early dental follow-up to prevent complications. Despite these limitations, such as the small sample size and the lack of standardized diagnostic criteria for these defects, further studies are suggested to deepen the understanding and improve preventive strategies for these children.
Advance Research under Modern Techniques and Agricultural Practices in Agronomy: A Review
Authors: Hemu Y Durga Venkat , Kumar Satish , Gangele Priyanka , Sravani Arem , Yadav Shipra , Ahirwar Shiv Kumar , Tandle Shivani Sunil
Published: December 2024

This study offered readers a chance to learn more about the changing landscape of Indian agronomy research by highlighting important advancements in soil science, plant breeding, crop management, and sustainable practices. However, it is difficult to escape the effects of resource scarcity, global warming, and the difficulties associated with assimilating new technologies. In addition to precision planting, the essay explores ideas like agroforestry, organic farming, and water conservation to support sustainable agriculture. The significance of soil science is demonstrated by digital soil mapping, nutrient management, and soil health evaluation. The shift from conventional to biotechnology approaches and how they have been implemented to preserve plant variety are discussed in the section on crop breeding. Reducing the environmental impact of agricultural methods, supporting agroecological systems, and encouraging biodiversity conservation are other priorities of advanced agronomic research. Translating these advances into efficient practices that benefit producers and the environment requires cooperation between scientists, farmers, and politicians.
Assessing Natural Ventilation Performance of a Lecture Hall
Authors: ALABI Oluwaseyi O. , AFOROLAGBA –BALOGUN Oyeyemi T. , FASINA Ayotunde O. , SALISU Saidat A. , LADIGBOLU Temitope A. , OYEDEJI Olufemi
Published: December 2024

The building industry faces growing challenges in improving energy efficiency and achieving environmental sustainability. This study explores the integration of natural ventilation with HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems as a promising solution for sustainable building design. The primary objective is to evaluate how this integration can balance energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and occupant comfort. Through a review of existing research, real-world applications, and case studies, the study identifies key design strategies—such as building orientation, façade optimization, and intelligent control systems—that enhance the performance of integrated systems. Additionally, the research analyzes the benefits, such as reduced energy consumption and improved occupant well-being, alongside challenges like design complexity and climate adaptability. The findings demonstrate that integrating natural ventilation and HVAC systems can significantly reduce a building’s energy use and environmental footprint while promoting healthier indoor environments. This work provides actionable insights for architects, engineers, and building professionals aiming to design high-performance, sustainable structures that align with environmental and human needs.
Harnessing the Power of Nutraceuticals: A New Approach to Obesity Treatment
Authors: D. Monisha , D.N. Swathi , Deveswaran R. , Basavaraj B V
Published: December 2024

The increasing prevalence of obesity highlights the urgent need for effective and sustainable management solutions. This review explores how nutraceuticals derived from various sources can play a key role in addressing obesity and its related health issues. Compounds like curcumin, green tea extract, psyllium fibre and omega-3 fatty acids have shown promising effects in weight management by regulating appetite, enhancing metabolism, reducing inflammation and improving insulin sensitivity. Obesity is a complex condition influenced by genetic, environmental and behavioural factors, making it difficult to treat. Nutraceuticals help by targeting specific pathways involved in inflammation, lipid metabolism and hormonal regulation, providing a safer, more natural alternative to traditional treatments. However, challenges like poor absorption, inconsistent results and the potential side effects still exist. Further advancements in exploring opportunities to enhance the effectiveness and accessibility of obesity management through nutraceuticals are yet to be undertaken. This review emphasizes the importance of rigorous clinical testing, regulatory oversight and better consumer education to enhance the benefits of nutraceuticals in obesity management. By integrating these natural compounds with comprehensive lifestyle changes, including improved diet, regular exercise and behavioural therapy, sustainable weight loss and improved overall health can be achieved.
Fasting impairs type 2 helper T cell infiltration in the lung of an eosinophilic asthma mouse model
Authors: Suzuki Yusuke , Hayashi Tomoya , Yokoyama Ryoma , Nakagawa Fumika , Inoue Joe , Higashi Taishi , Onodera Risako , Motoyama Keiichi
Published: August 2021

Eosinophilic asthma is a form of bronchial asthma that is caused by the pulmonary infiltration of eosinophils and accounts for approximately half of the patients with severe asthma. Several cell types of the immune system in synergy with the epithelial cells of the lung provoke an inflammatory response in patients with asthma. Recently, the effect of fasting on immune cells and inflammation has attracted considerable attention. Therefore, we examined whether fasting may serve as novel preventive strategy in patients with asthma. In our study, we employed a previously established mouse model of eosinophilic asthma. C57BL/6 mice were inoculated intranasally with interleukin‐33 and ovalbumin (OVA) in order to induce eosinophil infiltration in the lung and subjected to a 48‐h long fasting period directly after or 7 days postinoculation. We used flow cytometry to characterise infiltrated immune cells in the lung and measured the quantity of inflammatory cytokines as well as antigen‐specific immunoglobins (Ig) by ELISA. Our results indicated that fasting lowered the number of eosinophilic pulmonary infiltrates in the eosinophilic asthma model mice. Furthermore, fasting suppressed anti‐OVA IgG1 production. Fasting suppressed Th2 cytokine production by impairing Th2 accumulation in the lung. The findings suggest that fasting may be a novel preventive strategy for eosinophilic asthma.
Mutual relationship between taboo of faith and house space: A case study of “licit architecture” in 70 Rai, Khlong Toei, slum improvement project area, Bangkok, Thailand
Authors: Abe Takuya , Shimizu Ikuro
Published: August 2021

This paper aims at understanding the mutual relationship between the taboo of faith and a house space in the “licit architecture” in 70 Rai, Khlong Toei, a slum improvement project area in Bangkok, Thailand. In another paper, we defined a house in this area as “licit architecture,” which is built by architectural practices of people, such as deviating from official laws, customary laws, and customs within an acceptable level. This concept works not only for understanding the actual practices of the people in this area but also provides a deeper understanding of how they can survive in the serious living and spatial conditions in the slum. In this paper, we focus on various taboos relating to Buddhism and the spiritual faith and practices seen in house spaces with such licit architectures. Through a detailed description of these points, we show how a taboo relationship influences the layout, orientation, elevation, and removal of a house space. We point out that the “licit architecture” concept can be expanded broadly if we consider the architectural practices of the people, particularly various taboos of the removal, layout, orientation, and elevation, and how the people face these taboos.
High‐Intensity Interval Training for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Golightly Yvonne M. , Smith‐Ryan Abbie E. , Blue Malia N.M. , Alvarez Carolina , Allen Kelli D. , Nelson Amanda E.
Published: August 2021

Objective

To assess the feasibility and changes in outcomes of a 12‐week high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) program in individuals with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

The single‐arm trial included 29 participants (mean ± SD age 63 ± 7 years; 66% women; 66% obese). Measures of participant flow, adherence, and tolerability were collected. Pain, function, and balance were assessed at baseline, 6 weeks, and 12 weeks using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, 20‐m fast‐paced walk test, 30‐second chair‐stand test, stair‐climb test, timed up and go test, and single leg stance. Cardiorespiratory fitness, strength, and body composition were evaluated using peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak), isometric knee extensor/flexor strength, and dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry, respectively. HIIT was completed two times/week (cycling or treadmill) and consisted of 10 repetitions of 1‐minute bouts at 90% VO2peak, with 1‐minute rest periods. Separate multivariable‐adjusted linear mixed models were fit for each outcome with fixed effects of time, age, sex, body mass index, and random effects of baseline values to estimate mean changes and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) between baseline and 12‐week assessments.

Results

Recruitment aligned with the anticipated enrollment rate, adherence was 70%, and no adverse events were reported. At 12 weeks, improvements were observed for most outcomes, with notable mean changes for the 20‐m fast‐paced walk (−1.13 [95% CI −1.61 to −0.64] seconds), 30‐second chair‐stand (2.6 [1.8‐3.4] stands), and VO2peak (0.14 [0.03‐0.24] liters/minute).

Conclusion

In this 12‐week pilot study, HIIT improved multiple aspects of health in individuals with knee OA; larger studies are needed.