bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Roles of Gender and Academic Discipline in English for Specific Purposes
Authors: Lasekan Olusiji Adebola
Published: June 2024

Acknowledging the critical role of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) in shaping professional and academic success across various fields, the research delves into the nuanced interplay between gender and academic discipline in shaping the ESP needs of higher education students. The investigation investigates the impact of gender and academic discipline on Chilean dentistry and business administration students’ perceived lack, want, and need for English for Specific Purposes (ESP). Drawing on sociocultural theory and self-determination theory, a mixed-methods model that involved data collected from 94 dentistry and 121 business administration students was adopted. Findings revealed significant gender differences: males reported greater perceived lack, whereas females exhibited higher want and need for English, suggesting gender influences ESP perception and necessitates customized learning strategies. Contrarily, academic discipline did not significantly affect ESP perceptions, challenging assumptions that ESP needs are strictly discipline-dependent and highlighting a generalized demand for English proficiency across fields. The findings demonstrate the importance of gender-sensitive and flexible ESP programs that cater to diverse learner needs while considering broader educational and individual factors. The study implies that educational practitioners should develop ESP curricula that not only address specific professional terminologies and situations but also reflect an understanding of the roles gender and discipline play in language learning. This approach could foster more effective and inclusive language education tailored to the varied aspirations and requirements of students in different fields.
Island
Authors: Steinunn Knúts Önnudóttir
Published: June 2024

The exposition is a documentation and dissection of the performance Eyja/Island that was peformed in 2020. The performance is a part of the artistic PhD research "How Little is Enough?" Sustainable Methods of Performance for Transformative Encounters in Malmö Theatre Academy at Lund University.
It contains a video essay about the process of creating the work that describes both motivation and methods, a manuscript, photographs of the performance and a video interview with Gréta Kristín Ómarsdóttir a co-creator of the work.

Island
Eyja is a piece about what it means to belong; what ties a person to a community or a place and what kind of commitment it requires to be a part of something.
The challenges of the island reflect the global challenges of current times. In the performance guests are invited to critically investigate their own ideas on what it means to belong.
The guests are invited to mirror themselves in a staged journey through the life and values of the islanders. Through walks, observations, genuine exchange, symbolic gestures and structured dialogue, topics on quality of life on the ´island´ are contemplated.
Biodegrable pure Zn stent decorated with lanthanide doped cerium oxide coating toward engineering to improve corrosion resistance and antioxiant cardial patch
Authors: Li Yuemei , Li Yongmei
Published: June 2024

Zn alloy stent has become a promising implantable cardiac patch stent.
However, traditional Zn alloy stents not only easily induce neointimal
hyperplasia, but also cannot improve reperfusion ischemia after
myocardial infarction. Here, the Yb/Er/CeO coating
grow on the surface of Zn substrate, which inhibits the release of Zn
and enhances the proliferation of vascular
endothelial cells. This layer improves re-endothelialization and
avoiding restenosis. Yb/Er/CeO coating generates the
transition from the valence band to conduction band under 980 nm
excitation, which forms transfer energy of photo-induced electron-hole
pairs. This transfer energy can catalyze H O and O
to generate a chemical link group, which accelerate
the deposition rate of drug-eluting coating PLGA and increase the
corrosion resistance of Zn stents. Particularly, the Yb/Er/CeO
coating exhibits good catalytic ability for active
oxygen species (ROS), which can effectively scavenge myocardial cells
damage. Yb/Er/CeO nanoparticles layer (Nps) improve
mitochondrial function and increases oxidative phosphorylation, which
achieves anti-damage effects. Zn@Yb/Er/CeO /PLGA can
serve as an excellent myocardial patch scaffold for repairing damaged
myocardial cells, which has promising applications in the treatment of
cardiovascular diseases.
Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Over-expression Mutant IL-2 Enhance Treg Function in CIA Mice
Authors: Tang Zhicheng , Yang Fan , Shen Jingyi , Wu Haolin , Hong Huiming , Wang Yue , Yin Fanzhang , Tang Xiaojun , Zhang Huayong
Published: June 2024

Objectives: Research indicates that low doses of interleukin-2
(IL-2) can effectively mitigate RA symptoms by promoting Treg cells,
while high doses may enhance immune responses. Consequently, this study
employed mutated IL-2 to minimize its impact on CD8
T and NK cell activation while preserving its influence on Treg cells.
Methods: We constructed IL-2 mutants by overlap PCR and
assessed its impact on the proliferation and functionality of Treg cells
by flow cytometry and PCR. Furthermore, the synergistic effects of
mutated IL-2 and MSC on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in mice were
evaluated through the infusion of lentiviral-transfected mesenchymal
stromal cell (MSC) for CIA treatment and through pathological section
staining to assess inflammatory joint injury, cartilage destruction, and
osteoclast infiltration. Results: Mutant IL-2 demonstrated
targeted enhancement of both the proportion and proliferative activity
of Treg cells with a diminished capacity to stimulate the proliferation
of CD8 T cells and NK cells relative to wild-type
IL-2. Moreover, MSC-mutant IL-2 significantly augmented the proportion
of Treg cells compared to either MSC or mutant IL-2 in isolation.
Treatment with MSC-mutant IL-2 infusion in CIA mice ameliorated
arthritis symptoms and reduced inflammatory infiltration and cartilage
damage in their joints. Conclusion: Mutant IL-2 enhances Treg
function and proliferation while exerting reduced effects on CD8
and NK cell activation. MSC expressing mutant IL-2
demonstrates therapeutic benefits in CIA by increasing the proportion of
Treg cells and reducing the proportion of CD8 T
cells.
Gastrodin alleviates angiotensin Ⅱ-induced hypertension and myocardial apoptosis and PRDX2/p53 pathway activation
Authors: Xu Nanhui , Xie Qiurong , Li Jiapeng , Zhang Xiuli , Zheng Huifang , Cheng Ying , Wu Meizhu , Shen Aling , Wei Lihui , Yao Mengying , Yang Yanyan , Fang Yi , Peng Jun
Published: June 2024

Gastrodin is one of the foremost effective components of traditional
Chinese medicine Gastrodia elata Bl., which has been widely used
for anti-hypertension in China. However, the protection from myocardial
apoptosis in hypertension of gastrodin has not been systematic studied.
Our current study investigated the therapeutic effects and underlying
mechanisms of gastrodin on cardiac protection in hypertensive mice.
Treatment of gastrodin in Ang II-infused C57BL/6 mice significantly
alleviated the increase of blood pressure, cardiac dysfunction, heart
tibial ratio, and cardiac pathological changes. Kyoto Encyclopedia of
Genes and Genomes pathway analyses applied in the data of RNA-sequencing
by gastrodin treatment identified 697 up-regulated transcripts and 714
down-regulated transcripts, as well as 1105 enriched signaling pathways,
which also revealed that apoptosis and PRDX2/p53 pathway were involved
in the cardiac protection role of gastrodin. Consistently, gastrodin
treatment significantly reduced the cell apoptosis in cardiac tissues of
Ang II-infused mice and Ang II-stimulated H9c2 cells. In addition,
gastrodin treatment significantly also decreased the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio on
protein level, and down-regulated the protein levels of
cleaved-caspase3, cleaved-caspase9, PRDX2 and p53 in both cardiac
tissues and H9c2 cells stimulated with Ang II. In conclusion, gastrodin
treatment exhibits cardiac protection by reducing myocardial apoptosis
and suppressing PRDX2/p53 pathway activation in vitro and in
vivo.
Breaking down silos: The Gastroenterology Immunology Neuroscience (GIN) Discovery Program - a new model for research
Authors: Silva Juliana , Halmos Emma , Marsland Ben , Mychasiuk Richelle
Published: June 2024

The Gastroenterology Immunology Neuroscience (GIN) Discovery Program
represents a new model for research that overcomes the limitations
imposed by traditional ‘research silos’ in medical science. By adopting
a cross-disciplinary, highly-integrated approach, the GIN Program unites
the fields of gastroenterology, immunology, and neuroscience to
comprehensively address chronic health challenges. This initiative not
only bridges the gaps between basic science, clinical research, and
patient care but also emphasises the importance of diversity in ideas,
perspectives, and approaches when fostering innovation. The program’s
organic, bottom-up growth strategy has facilitated the formation of a
vibrant, interdisciplinary community, captivating attention from both
national and international institutions. With a vision to create
effective therapeutic solutions and pioneer advancements in
gut-immune-brain axis research, the GIN Program exemplifies the power of
interdisciplinary collaboration. This innovative commitment to change
the landscape of medical research aims to inspire similar models that
prioritise open communication, mutual respect, and a commitment to
groundbreaking science.
The Future of Immunology: A Lofoten Perspective
Authors: Borowicz Pawel , King Carolyn , Dustin Michael , Wherry E John , Koretzky Gary , Spurkland Anne
Published: June 2024

One major goal of immunological research is to understand fundamental
mechanisms of immune system function and translate these discoveries
into innovative approaches for diagnosing, treating, and ideally,
preventing disease. Recent years have seen dramatic progress in our
appreciation of basic immunologic principles and the pace of taking
discoveries to patients is often breath-taking. This is an amazing time
for immunologists and the future for the next generation of scientists
is bright, indeed. An international meeting held in August 2023 on the
Lofoten Islands in Norway provided a forum for discussing promising
pathways for future research in our field. This 4th Lofoten workshop was
also an opportunity to address another issue, just as important as the
future of immunologic research. The recent COVID-19 pandemic highlighted
the international phenomenon of a communication gulf between scientists
and the public. This manifested itself with both misinformation and
deliberate disinformation campaigns around the pandemic, potential
treatments for COVID-19, and tragically, the importance of vaccination
for individual and community health. The August workshop was an ideal
opportunity for scientists from around the world to discuss their
experiences in efforts at disseminating non-partisan, trustworthy
information that would be useful for their communities. This report
summarizes views on future directions in immunologic research presented
at round-table discussions at the workshop and subsequent responses to
surveys sent to meeting participants. It also summarizes some of the
conversation around the responsibility of scientists to communicate with
the non-science community and approaches we may use to meet this
obligation.
Optimization of environmental DNA-based methods: A case study for detecting brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis).
Authors: Myler Erika , Milián-García Yoamel , Loeza-Quintana Tzitziki , Bourque Danielle , Hanner Robert
Published: June 2024

The utility of eDNA for fish species and community monitoring is
well-established using targeted amplification (i.e., qPCR and ddPCR) and
passive sequencing approaches (i.e., metabarcoding). However, the lack
of optimized and standardized methods reduces the sensitivity of this
approach and precludes the reliable comparison of findings across
studies, respectively. DNA extraction is a prime target for optimization
efforts because the extraction method is highly variable across eDNA
studies despite being the most influential factor in detection
efficiency across the entire post-collection workflow. Sequence analysis
is arguably the least standardized step in the workflow, with new
bioinformatics pipelines frequently emerging in the literature and being
implemented with innumerable unique combinations of parameter values.
The current study aimed to support the optimization and standardization
of eDNA methods for fish detection by assessing two commercial DNA
extraction kits manufactured by Qiagen and Macherey-Nagel on cost, time,
and performance specifications and comparing the success of brook trout
detection by metabarcoding across three bioinformatics pipelines, qPCR,
and ddPCR. Our protocols were effective in detecting brook trout in all
20 samples analyzed. Brook trout eDNA was detected by ddPCR in nine
(90%) Qiagen extracts but only seven (70%) Macherey-Nagel extracts. In
comparison, detection success was equal across the two extraction kits
using qPCR (70%) and metabarcoding (100%). The metabarcoding pipelines
performed equally well in detecting brook trout with no significant
differences in read numbers associated with the target species. Under
our experimental conditions, the Qiagen kit was selected as the
preferred kit due to its overall good performance and considerably lower
cost despite a slightly longer extraction time.
Model predictive control with thermal constraints for fuel cell hybrid electric vehicle based on speed prediction
Authors: Fu Jiangtao , Fan Bo , Fu Zhumu , Song Shuzhong
Published: June 2024

Because of the soft dynamic performance of the fuel cell stack,
the battery is usually integrated in the power system in fuel cell
hybrid electric vehicles. In this paper, a real time energy management
strategy considering thermal constraints based on speed prediction with
neuron network is proposed. The main principle of the proposed control
strategy is to get the future power requirement with model predictive
control based on the historic speed information, and then optimize the
objective function according to the state variables. The objective
function is set to minimize the equivalent fuel consumption of the
vehicle and extend the life span of the fuel cell stack based on thermal
constraints. Contrasting with the control strategy without thermal
constraints under the WLTC driving cycle, the proposed energy management
is 0.9% higher, but the temperature of the fuel cell stack and the
battery can be limited within an appropriate range. The total equivalent
fuel consumption is 3.9% lower than dynamic programming control
strategy, which proves the availability of the proposed control strategy
can reduce the equivalent fuel consumption while prolonging the fuel
cell stack life span. Hardware in loop (HIL) experiment is implemented
to testify the real time application of the proposed control strategy.
Discrete repetition effects for visual words compared to faces and animals, but no modulation by expectation: An event-related potential study
Authors: SONG Binging , Sommer Werner , Maurer Urs
Published: June 2024

Repetition suppression (RS) refers to the reduction of neuronal
responses to repeated stimuli as compared to non-repeated stimuli. The
predictive coding account of RS proposes that its magnitude is modulated
by repetition probability (P(rep)) and that this modulation increases
with prior experience with the stimulus category. To test these
hypotheses, we examined the RS and it’s modulation by P(rep) for three
stimulus categories for which participants had different expertise,
using EEG methodology. Cantonese speakers watched paired stimuli (S1-S2)
of Asian faces, Chinese written words, and animal pictures with the S2
being the same or different from S1. Attributes of S1 (e.g., the sex of
the first face) served as a cue for repetition probability of S2.
Time-point by time-point Topographic Analyses of Variance (TANOVA) for
words showed significant repetition effects across several intervals
(92-140, 150-248, 260-488, and 502-560ms), and expectation effects
during 789-844ms. Significant repetition effects were also identified
for faces (207-358ms), and animals (324-486ms). Timing and topographies
suggest N250r effects for all three stimulus categories, but TANOVA
comparisons indicate earlier and distinct topographic distributions of
repetition effects for words versus faces (151-263, 277-445m) and
animals (148-242, 266-437ms), and for faces versus animals (209-316ms).
These results suggest that repetition effects differ between stimulus
categories, presumably depending on prior experience and stimulus
properties, such as spatial frequencies. Importantly, we did not find
any EEG evidence for effects of P(rep) potentially manipulating
expectancy. Such null findings of P(rep) effects do not support the
general predictive coding account of repetition suppression.
Steric Hindrance Induced Low Exciton Binding Energy Enables Low-Driving-Force Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Hu Tianyu , Zheng Xufan , Wang Ting , Gao Bowen , Wu Jingnan , Xiong Jingyi , Wan Ming , Cong Tingting , Li Yuda , Wang Ergang , Wang Xunchang , Yang Renqiang
Published: June 2024

Exciton binding energy ( E) has been regarded
as a critical parameter in charge separation during photovoltaic
conversion. Minimizing the E of the
photovoltaic materials can facilitate the exciton dissociation in
low-driving force organic solar cells (OSCs) and thus improve the power
conversion efficiency (PCE), nevertheless, diminishing the E with deliberate design principles remains a
significant challenge. Herein, bulky side chain as steric hindrance
structure was inserted into Y-series acceptors to minimize the E by modulating the intra- and inter-molecular
interaction. Theoretical and experimental results indicate that steric
hindrance-induced weaker intra-molecular interactions but stronger
inter-molecular interaction can strengthen the molecular polarizability,
increase the overlap of electronic orbitals between molecules and
facilitate delocalized pathway charge transfer, thereby resulting in a
low E. The conspicuously reduced E obtained in Y-ChC5 with pinpoint steric hindrance
modulation can minimize the detrimental effects on exciton dissociation
in low-driving-force OSCs, achieving a remarkable PCE of 19.1% with
over 95% internal quantum efficiency. Our study provides a new
molecular design rationale to reduce the exciton binding energy.
DELAYED CORD CLAMPING VERSUS UMBILICAL CORD MILKING IN TERM AND NEAR-TERM NEONATES- A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL
Authors: Garg Aashim , Shekhar Shashank , Gupta Neeraj , SINGH PRATIBHA , Goyal Manu , Jhirwal Manisha
Published: June 2024

Aim: To compare the effect of delayed cord clamping versus
milking of umbilical cord on initial hematocrit in term and near-term
neonates. Methods: This randomized controlled trial included
374 pregnant women of more than 34 weeks period of gestation. They were
randomized into umbilical cord milking group and delayed cord clamping
group. In umbilical cord milking group, 119 underwent vaginal delivery
and 68 underwent caesarean section. In delayed cord clamping group, 117
underwent vaginal delivery and 70 underwent caesarean section.
Results: Mean hematocrit in cord sample was 47.02±7.13% in
umbilical cord milking group and 48.04±8.36% in delayed cord clamping
group and the difference was not statistically significant (p=0.21).
Mean hematocrit at 30±6 hours was 54.48±5.84% in umbilical cord milking
group and 50.9±7.1% in delayed cord clamping group and the difference
was statistically significant(p=0.01). Requirement of phototherapy in
umbilical cord milking group was 18.18% and in delayed cord clamping
group was 19.25%(p=0.79). Rate of neonatal intensive care unit
admissions was 2.67% in umbilical cord milking group and 7.49% in
delayed cord clamping group(p=0.034). Conclusion: Umbilical
cord milking lead to significant increase in hematocrit levels without
increasing the requirement of phototherapy and neonatal intensive care
unit admissions. Hence, umbilical cord milking can be used as an
alternative to delayed cord clamping in both term and near-term
neonates.
Fractals through modified Jungck iteration scheme and analysis
Authors: Rafiq Arif
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we introduce a novel Jungck iteration scheme
characterized by second-order convergence. We verify its validity and
accuracy using polynomiography. Additionally, we establish that existing
well-known iteration schemes for approximating the fixed point of a
general mapping exhibit identical convergence rates under specific
conditions.
Diet of cisco (Coregonus spp.) in Algonquin Park region lakes: variation among forms
Authors: Reid Scott , Dextrase Avery
Published: June 2024

Efforts to conserve cisco (Coregonus spp.) diversity in Canadian lakes have been impeded by the unresolved taxonomy of North American ciscoes. When a strictly taxonomic-based approach is not possible, conservation units of infraspecific diversity can be identified using biological, morphological, ecological, and genetic evidence. Distinct cisco forms have been reported from deep oligotrophic lakes within boundaries of the historical outflow of glacial Lake Algonquin. In this study, we described the diet of three cisco forms netted from eight lakes located in or adjacent to Algonquin Provincial Park, Ontario. Opossum Shrimp (Mysis diluviana) was the dominant prey of benthic, low gill raker count forms in Trout and White Partridge Lakes, and of a large-bodied, high gill raker count form in Hogan Lake. Zooplankton was the most important prey item of small-bodied, pelagic forms in White Partridge Lake, and Cisco (Coregonus artedi) collected from five other Algonquin Park lakes. The diet of Trout Lake Cisco was a broader mix of prey items, including chironomid pupae, Opossum Shrimp, phantom midges (Chaboridae spp.), and zooplankton. Our study provides strong dietary evidence of the special ecological context occupied by cisco forms in White Partridge Lake, and moderate evidence for Trout Lake. Past reports of Shortjaw Cisco (Coregonus zenithicus) in six of the study lakes were not supported by our sampling, because low gill raker count forms were not captured.
Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) feeding on Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera) galls induced by aphids
Authors: Wishart Andrea , Jackson Morgan
Published: June 2024

Red Squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) specializes in feeding on conifer cone seeds but will feed opportunistically on a wide variety of other food items, including fungi, eggs, small vertebrates, and invertebrates. In much of their range, Red Squirrels experience fluctuations in the availability of their primary diet (conifer seeds) seasonally and annually because of variation in seed production. We document a seemingly uncommon or unreported feeding behaviour by a Red Squirrel in a year of an exceedingly low conifer cone production in Yukon, Canada: a squirrel foraging for and feeding on aphids hidden within galls formed on Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera). We searched for community-reported observations of Red Squirrels through iNaturalist and found additional evidence of apparently similar gall feeding behaviour elsewhere in Canada. We estimate that aphids can be a substantial source of caloric energy for Red Squirrels. Our observation represents another example of the diet breadth of Red Squirrels during periods of low conifer seed availability.
Canada Jay (Perisoreus canadensis) harvesting and caching fruits of Thin-leaved Snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus)
Authors: Hendricks Paul , Pagano Susan
Published: June 2024

On 17 September 2021, we observed three Canada Jay (Perisoreus canadensis) harvesting and caching Thin-leavedSnowberry (Symphoricarpos albus) fruits in a mixed conifer forest in western Montana, USA. Thin-leaved Snowberry hasnot been reported previously in their diet. During 3 min of direct observation, each jay harvested snowberries similarly and cached them on the trunks of nearby pines. In each case (11 caches), the jay flew by the snowberry shrubs twice, plucking a fruit while airborne, landing on the ground between passes, the first fruit carried in the throat, the second in the bill. The jays then landed, most often out of view on tree trunks, but, nevertheless, appeared to cache the fruits each time. One cache observed in the making contained two harvested fruits wedged in a crevice on the trunk and covered with a flake of bark. Thin-leaved Snowberry is considered a low-quality fall-ripening fruit because of the small energy gain for each fruit consumed. Nevertheless, the energy density of snowberries (16.65 kJ/g dry mass) collected at the same location in October exceeded that required by non-migratory Canada Jays for daily maintenance during winter. It is unlikely jays could cache enough fruits each day to sustain them for several winter months. Instead, snowberries could be an important and readily available autumn and winter food for Canada Jays resident in this region when used to supplement other stored foods with greater energy, fat, and protein content.
Consumerism in health care – review of Polish and world literature
Authors: Krakowiak-Burdzy Anna Barbara , Fąfara Anna
Published: June 2024

Introduction. Consumerism refers to people who adopt attitudes characterised by unnecessary consumption and excessive accumulation of material goods, which are the most important, essential in life, and are a determinant of quality. Consumerism has brought noticeable positive effects in the area of health services due to the observance of patients’ rights, the provision of ever higher quality medical services, allowing the patient to decide on certain issues concerning their life and health, and the choice of doctor or medical facility.

Aim. The aim of the work was to analyze the scientific literature on consumerism in health care.

Method. Scopus, PubMed databases and Google Scholar were searched in accordance with the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta Analyzes (PRISMA 2020).Ultimately, 14 articles that met the inclusion criteria were included for detailed analysis.

Results. Comprehensive, high-quality nursing care in a hospital, upgrading the skills of health care professionals and appropriate behaviour of medical staff contribute to the positive assessment of a particular facility, and thus attract other customers (patients) to use medical services.
Cultural intelligence and multicultural personality of novice nurses in the midst of the refugee crisis in Poland – a preliminary report
Authors: Jaworski Mariusz , Cieślak Ilona , Panczyk Mariusz , Barzykowski Krystian , Majda Anna , Theofanidis Dimitrios , Gotlib-Małkowska Joanna
Published: June 2024

Aim. The aim of the study was to analyse the level of cultural intelligence and multicultural personality profile of novice nurses in Poland in the context of the increase of migration and refugee crises.

Material and methods. A cross-sectional study of 234 novice nurses working in clinical, district or city hospitals was conducted. The Polish version of the Cultural Intelligence Scale and the Multicultural Personality Questionnaire were used. Statistica™ 13.3 software was used for analysis.

Results. The results indicate a moderate level of cultural intelligence and diversity in the levels of intensity of the multicultural personality traits. The highest levels were found in cultural empathy. A positive correlation was found between cultural intelligence and multicultural personality. The global dimension of cultural intelligence and its four domains were found to be related to three multicultural personality traits – cultural sensitivity, social initiative and open-mindedness.

Conclusions. The study highlights the importance of cultural competence in healthcare and the need to strengthen it among novice nurses, especially amidst contemporary social changes and challenges associated with migration. The implementation of systematic training programmes aimed at increasing cultural competence among nurses is recommended to enhance and develop these skills.
Dynamic Stability Of An Inclined Fluid-Conveying Pipe With A One-Sided Elastic Support
Authors: Lolov Dimitar , Lilkova-Markova Svetlana
Published: June 2024

Pipeline transport is proven to be an efficient method for conveying fluids over long distances, offering benefits such as continuous transport, significant volume capacity, lower energy costs, and substantial environmental advantages. Damage to pipelines could have detrimental effects on the economy, the environment, and pose health and safety risks for the population. The safety issues associated with pipes garner considerable attention in both scientific research and industry. The focus of the current study is on the dynamic stability of a straight fluid-conveying pipe with an elastic support. The investigation is based on the Euler-beam model and involves the use of Laplace and Fourier transformations. The paper draws attention to the stability of inclined pipes, as they haven’t received much attention.
Improvement of Bicycle Ball-Type Overrunning Clutch Operation
Authors: Malashchenko Volodymyr , Protasov Roman , Lanets Olena , Lysiak Bohdan
Published: June 2024

A comparative analysis of well-known literary sources has been conducted to identify and summarize the main shortcomings of existing freewheel ball clutches used in bicycles. The need to improve the operational characteristics of existing clutches in order to completely eliminate ball slippage during transitional modes of operation has been convincingly demonstrated. This is due to the fact that they transmit torque through the frictional forces between the jammed balls and the working surfaces of the semi-clutches.
Methodology For Measuring Forces In Motorcycle Suspension Using A System Based On Analogue Potentiometers
Authors: Míša Jiří , Tobiáš Martin , Repka Martin , Straka Martin , Gregor Lukáš
Published: June 2024

This study explores the quest for a more cost-effective and practical method of measuring forces in motorcycle suspension systems by utilizing simple potentiometers as an alternative to sophisticated strain gauges. The research delves into the feasibility of potentiometers to provide accurate and reliable force measurements, offering potential advantages in terms of affordability, accessibility, and ease of implementation. Through empirical testing and verification, this investigation aims to establish potentiometers as a viable and economical solution for enhancing motorcycle suspension performance monitoring and tuning.
Increasing the Efficiency of Mobile Robot Navigation Using Slam with Several Advanced Algorithms and Filters
Authors: Pajaziti Arbnor , Bajrami Xhevahir , Fandaj Arjanit
Published: June 2024

Several algorithms such as A*, Dijkstra, SLAM (Simultaneous Localisation and Mapping) and APF (Artificial Potential Field) were used in this study to create local maps, plan the shortest path, and localize mobile robots. In fact, when compared to the SLAM/APF method, these algorithms achieved a reduction in road length by 1.18 meters. Nevertheless, the SLAM/APF method outperformed the Dijkstra algorithm by reducing navigation time by 7.62 seconds and surpassed the A* method by reducing navigation time by 5.76 seconds.
Improving the Technology of Cleaning Cutting in Forest Areas with Double-Row Plantings
Authors: Tsarev Evgeniy M. , Rukomojnikov Konstantin P. , Anisimov Ilya S. , Anisimov Nikita S. , Makarov Vladimir E. , Gilyazova Tatiana A.
Published: June 2024

The article discusses the issues of logging in forest areas after artificial reforestation with a double-row arrangement of forest plantations. A critical review of existing methods for carrying out selective and clear cuttings of forests was carried out. The purpose of the study is to develop a method for felling trees with a double-row arrangement of growing trees, allowing felling without damaging neighboring trees and trees in nearby rows. As a result of the research, a modernization of the forestry tractor was proposed.
SAĞLIK TURİZMİ YATIRIMLARININ ETKİNLİĞİNİN ARTIRILMASINA YÖNELİK ÖNCELİKLİ STRATEJİLERİN KÜRESEL BULANIK TOP-DEMATEL YÖNTEMİYLE BELİRLENMESİ
Authors: Gökalp Yaşar
Published: June 2024

Bu çalışmanın amacı, sağlık turizmi alanına yapılan yatırımların etkinliğinin artırılmasına yönelik en optimal stratejilerin belirlenmesidir. Bu çerçevede, sağlık turizmi yatırımlarını etkileyen literatür tabanlı 6 kriter belirlenmiştir. Bu kriterler arasından en fazla önem arz edenlerin belirlenebilmesi için küresel bulanık TOP-DEMATEL yöntemi kullanılarak bir analiz gerçekleştirilmiştir. Bu bağlamda çalışmanın literatüre olan temel katkısı sağlık turizmi yatırımlarının performansı üzerinde en fazla öneme sahip olan faktörlerin tespit edilmesidir. Bu durum sağlık turizmi yatırımlarının etkinliğinin ve verimliliğinin arttırılabilmesine önemli ölçüde katkı sağlamaktadır. Öte yandan, bu çalışmadaki en önemli metodolojik özgünlük ise TOP-DEMATEL isimli yeni bir karar verme tekniğinin geliştirilmesidir. Elde edilen analiz sonuçlarına göre, sağlık turizmi yatırımlarına etki eden önemli kriter sağlık hizmetlerinin maliyetlerinin makul seviyede olması olarak bulunmuştur. Etkin devlet teşviklerinin ve politikalarının olması da bu süreci etkileyen bir diğer önemli kriter olarak bulunmuştur. Maliyetlerin makul düzeyde olması sağlandığı taktirde diğer sağlık turizmi destinasyonlarına göre rekabet avantajı elde edilmesi mümkün olacaktır. Ayrıca, karlılık oranının da artmasına olanak sağlayarak yatırımların sürekliliği de sağlanmış olacaktır. Bu bağlamda, kapsamlı bir finansal analiz yapılarak sağlık turizmi kapsamında sunulacak hizmetlerin maliyet etkinliğinin sağlanabilmesi gerekmektedir.
CITY DIPLOMACY TO TACKLE WICKED PROBLEMS: METROPOLITAN MUNICIPALITY OF IZMIR
Authors: Erdem Nisa , Ersavaş Kavanoz Suna
Published: June 2024

Municipalities/local governments are both one of the key actors in tackling wicked problems and the place where these problems are concretely experienced. One of the methods suitable for local governments in tackling wicked problems is networked service delivery. City diplomacy is an effective tool in addressing wicked problems because it brings many cities together with other cities and actors, provides a suitable platform for sharing different information, practices and resources on problems, and offers a more flexible form of governance that allows a transition from hierarchy to networks in the provision of public services. The aim of this study is to identify the impact of city diplomacy on the wicked problems faced by cities. In this context, the study analyses city diplomacy activities through content analysis and identifies their relationship with wicked problems. The study determines the relationship between city diplomacy activities and a number of areas within the scope of wicked problems, determines the impact of city diplomacy activities on local government service areas, and reveals the importance of city diplomacy activities in the management of Covid-19 outbreak, which is considered a wicked problem.
Carbon monoxide poisoning and myocardial injury in pregnancy: a case report
Authors: Safi Ebtesam , Hussain Sara , AlNajjar Firas
Published: June 2024

Background: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless and odorless gas from combustion sources causing accidental or intentional poisoning. Patients present with nonspecific symptoms such as headache and dizziness, but severe cases can lead to altered mental status. Myocardial injury is a life-threatening outcome of CO poisoning, requiring timely evaluation and management.
Case Presentation: A 33-year-old pregnant female with no prior co-morbidities presented to the emergency department with dizziness, vomiting, and syncope. She had been exposed to CO from a petrol generator, resulting in a carboxyhemoglobin level of 9.6%. The patient exhibited global hypokinesia and reduced ejection fraction. After receiving oxygen therapy, she showed improvement and was discharged in stable condition.
Conclusion: This case underscores the importance of early recognition and management of myocardial injury in CO poisoning, particularly in pregnant patients. Prompt oxygen therapy and appropriate follow-up are crucial to mitigate long-term cardiovascular and fetal complications.
A bibliometric analysis of the research outcome of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Khartoum 2019-2023
Authors: Adeel Ahmed
Published: June 2024

Using two databases, this bibliometric analysis was done for the papers published by the Faculty of Medicine, University of Khartoum (FMUK), from 2019 to 2023. Data were extracted from SCImago for all Sudan, and from PubMed for the publications by FMUK and its associated research centres, the Institute of Endemic Diseases, and the Mycetoma Research Center. The analysis of publications included the count and type of publications, the journals and national and international collaboration assessment. The publications from FMUK show improvement over time in number and quality, a growth that is significantly influenced by national and international collaboration. These partnerships have proven to be a key driver of FMUK's research output, together with valuable contributions of the specialized research institutions. However, there is room for improvement in the research output by increasing institutional capacity to supporting research and scientific communication. The Sudanese Journal of Paediatrics is an example where open access has a positive impact by allowing peripheral journals to be established despite the constraints.
Comparative Antioxidant and Phytochemical Evaluation of Selected Varieties of Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott Leaves
Authors: Varghese V Joycy , Nair Athira R. K. , Joseph Elsam
Published: June 2024

Sree Kiran, Sree Rashmi, Sree Pallavi, and Muktakeshi are the four commonly cultivated varieties of Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott. The current study aims to perform phytochemical screening and the antioxidant capacity of the leaf extracts of these varieties. Furthermore, LCMS was used to examine the polyphenolic content of Muktakeshi's ethanolic leaf extract. The phytochemical analysis of the cultivars indicated that all extracts contained beneficial phytocompounds like phenols, terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and tannins. The ethanolic leaf extract of Muktakeshi was found to have greater levels of total phenol (39.47±0.47 GAE mg/g) and flavonoid (49.672±0.15 QE mg/g) contents. All the leaf extracts exhibited a moderate antioxidant ability, whereas the ethanolic extract of Muktakeshi exhibited comparatively higher antioxidant potential in both DPPH (88.3±0.58%) and nitric oxide (84.6±0.79%) assays with the least IC50 value. The LCMS studies detected eight polyphenolic compounds like quercetin, kaempferol, gallic acid, caffeic acid, luteolin 7-rutinoside, chlorogenic acid, vitexin, and rutin in the ethanolic leaf extract of Muktakeshi. It is a good source of many potentially effective bioactive compounds and helps to prevent human oxidative stress-associated diseases. The present study found considerable variations in the phenol-flavonoid content and antioxidant properties of the Colocasia varieties studied.
A Comprehensive Review on L-carnitine: A Promising Nutraceutical
Authors: Gunjal AA , Kulkarni AV , Bairagi PK , Chavan VY
Published: June 2024

L-carnitine (LC), which is a type of quaternary amine, is an essential element for energy metabolism in mammals, plants, and specific bacteria. Originating from the amino acid methionine and lysine, it is primarily synthesized in the kidneys and liver. L-carnitine is a pharmacologically active form of carnitine that plays a vital role in energy generation and the breakdown of fatty acids via β-oxidation in metabolism. Deficiencies in organic cation transporter-2 (OCTN2) can arise due to gene mutations or in conjunction with other conditions like renal or hepatic disorders. Deficiency in carnitine regulation results in several diseases, including cardiomyopathy, cirrhosis, diabetes, endocrine disorders, malnutrition, aging, sepsis, and malnutrition. LC is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research indicates that incorporating LC into the diet can ameliorate inflammatory ailments by decreasing the presence of inflammatory agents. Supplementation with LC is particularly useful for individuals with predominant carnitine deficiencies, which can be life-threatening, as well as certain subsidiary deficiencies like organic acid disorders, muscle wasting, and weakness. Moreover, emerging evidence suggests that LC may have therapeutic benefits for various diseases, including renal diseases, liver diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancer, diabetes, cachexia, obesity, depression, and epilepsy.
Desarrollo de intervenciones digitales en salud pública: Experiencias en el contexto de la pandemia por COVID
Authors: Ortiz León María Cristina , González Fajardo Krystal Dennicé , Cabrera Mendoza Néstor Iván , Uribe Madrigal Rosa Dabinia , Rodríguez Montes Oscar Eduardo , Parissi Poumian Yessica , Parra Henao Cindy Vanessa , Zavaleta Abad Raúl Alberto , Tuxpan García Ivonne , Orozco Ortega Rubén Arturo , Álvarez Bañuelos María Teresa , Fernández Reyes Sergio , González Saldaña Karla Daniela , Gudini Acosta José Pascual , Lefort Betchaah , Martínez Cabrera Karen Rubí , Luzanía Valerio Manuel Salvador , Cubillas García Ignacio , Jiménez Prieto Perla de los Ángeles , Mundo Mateo Margarita , Sedano Ochoa Sandra Arlette , López Vázquez Julieta , Morales Mena Brito Sara Alejandra , Soto Gómez Nadia Lizeth , Ordóñez Gómez Irasema Yatzel , Mendoza Melchor Erik Fernando , García Román Rebeca , Domínguez Mora Dafne Carolina , Marín Acosta María Elena , Rangel Junquera Alejandra , Hernández Ramón Christian David , Sampieri Ramírez Clara Luz , Ortiz León María Cristina , Domínguez Domínguez Carlos Francisco , Gutiérrez Méndez Juan Manuel , Zenteno Cuevas Roberto
Published: June 2024

En este libro se presentan algunas de las experiencias vividas en la implementación de intervenciones en salud, utilizando el entorno digital. Las tecnologías de información y comunicación (TIC) se han convertido en una herramienta fundamental en muchas de las actividades que desarrollamos como sociedad. Durante el año 2020 y parte del 2021, periodo de pandemia, se llevaron a cabo intervenciones en salud, que originalmente estaban diseñadas para implementarse de manera presencial. Sin embargo, debido a las restricciones sanitarias impuestas por el Gobierno de la república, las intervenciones en salud tuvieron que adaptarse al entorno digital. En los diferentes capítulos que integran este volumen se abordan importantes temáticas en salud, tales como el saneamiento básico, el manejo higiénico de los alimentos, la promoción de la lactancia materna en mujeres en periodo de posparto, el autocuidado de la diabetes por personal de grupos de ayuda mutua, el abordaje de la compleja problemática de la tuberculosis, así como estrategias de comunicación para evitar la violencia de género.
Challenges of disaster medicine training as part of professional degree and possible solutions (literature review)
Authors: Suin P. A. , Gumenyuk S. A. , Pervukhin N. N.
Published: June 2024

Relevance. Professional healthcare workers are the main asset of disaster medicine service, enabling utmost efficiency of activities. Disaster medicine training is a must for medical university students due to complicated labor conditions, specific responsibilities, and round-the-clock preparedness to provide emergency medical care to disaster victims. New Russian legislation on advancements in medical education emphasizes the top priority and high demand for disaster medicine training of promising doctors.The objective is to analyze disaster medicine training practices in medical universities providing future healthcare professionals with a disaster medicine degree, as well as to identify specialty-related educational challenges encountered by medical universities of RussiaMethods. The analysis of relevant legal regulation in Russia was supported by open research data regarding professional degree in disaster medicine. The results were systemized; key findings and conclusions were formulated.Results and discussion. Existing degree programs neglect hands-on disaster medicine training of medical professionals. There is an urgent need for a common medical degree curriculum in disaster medicine to be developed and approved by the Russian Ministry of Healthcare. Disaster Medicine as a specialty degree is in dire need of recognition by law, followed by establishing a specialized educational standard and training program. There is critical demand for innovative and more efficient training of students, accurate assessment of knowledge and skills, improved quality of hands-on training, and extensive cooperation of university disaster medicine departments with various disaster medicine institutions.Conclusion. Today the disaster medicine degree in medical universities requires improvements. By solving the identified challenges in disaster medicine hands-on training provided to students in medical universities, the country is going to improve the quality and efficiency of public medical care for those affected by emergency situations.
Queering Distances and Disoriented Dancing Bodies: Matija Ferlin’s Relational Performances Sad Sam Revisited and The Other for One
Authors: Rafolt Leo
Published: June 2024

The paper argues spatial parameters in defining queer identity, especially in Anglo-American critical discourse, eager to employ it as a strategy for queer performance, or notable, modern, or contemporary dance hermeneutics. Leaning on traditional queer researchers, e.g., Judith Butler, Eve Kosofsky Sedgwick, and José Esteban Muñoz, to name just a few of them, as well as on materialist concepts of the body, affects, the human touch, etc., a deep analysis of two Matija Ferlin’s performance projects is offered, precisely from a perspective of queer resistance to dominant heteronormative paradigms of -’orientation’-, -’identification-’, and ’affectuality’.
Anticipating Aesthetic Transformations in the Face of Climate Change
Authors: Alcaráz León María José
Published: June 2024

Recently, within the field of Environmental Aesthetics, there has been some attention paid to how taking into consideration the environmental impact of Global Climate Change (GCC) generates new problems and issues. Among different questions that Environmental Aesthetics needs to face under the impact of GCC, we can distinguish, at least methodologically, those which address the impact of GCC in the aesthetic experience of the environment we currently inhabit and those concerned with the possible aesthetic character that future environments might possess as a result of GCC. In this article, I would like to focus on how to characterize the possible impact that the awareness of GCC may have on the aesthetic experience of current environments. In particular, I would like to clarify this issue by exploring the roles that knowledge, forward-looking emotions, and imagination play in this experience.