bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Don Cupitt and the State of Radical Theology
Authors: Shakespeare Steven
Published: June 2024

Don Cupitt’s non-realist thought is an important part of the ongoing story of radical theology. This article surveys some of the most important recent figures and trends in that story to assess the current state of the field. It sets out ways in which Cupitt’s attack on dualistic and dogmatic thought is strongly echoed by thinkers such as John Caputo, Richard Kearney, Catherine Keller and Grace Jantzen, and how major materialist philosophers like Slavoj Žižek still show a fascination with the emancipatory potential of Christianity. The article argues that some of Cupitt’s positions need to be challenged in the light of the contemporary ecological and metaphysical concerns of radical theology today.
A Note on BKP for the Kontsevich Matrix Model with Arbitrary Potential
Authors:   Humboldt-Universit&, Borot Gaëtan ,   #228,   t zu Berlin, Germany, Wulkenhaar Raimar ,   Universität Münster, Germany
Published: June 2024

We exhibit the Kontsevich matrix model with arbitrary potential as a BKP tau-function with respect to polynomial deformations of the potential. The result can be equivalently formulated in terms of Cartan-Plücker relations of certain averages of Schur $Q$-function. The extension of a Pfaffian integration identity of de Bruijn to singular kernels is instrumental in the derivation of the result.
Deep Search for Phosphine in a Prestellar Core
Authors: Furuya Kenji , Shimonishi Takashi
Published: June 2024

Understanding in which chemical forms phosphorus exists in star- and planet-forming regions and how phosphorus is delivered to planets are of great interest from the viewpoint of the origin of life on Earth. Phosphine (PH3) is thought to be a key species to understanding phosphorus chemistry, but never has been detected in star- and planet-forming regions. We performed sensitive observations of the ortho-PH3 10 − 00 transition (266.944 GHz) toward the low-mass prestellar core L1544 with the Atacama Compact Array stand-alone mode of the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array. The line was not detected down to 3σ levels in 0.07 km s−1 channels of 18 mK. The nondetection provides the upper limit to the gas-phase PH3 abundance of 5 × 10−12 with respect to H2 in the central part of the core. Based on the gas-ice astrochemical modeling, we find the scaling relationship between the gas-phase PH3 abundance and the volatile (gas and ice with larger volatility than water) P elemental abundance for given physical conditions. This characteristic and well-constrained physical properties of L1544 allow us to constrain the upper limit to the volatile P elemental abundance of 5 × 10−9, which is a factor of 60 lower than the overall P abundance in the interstellar medium. Then the majority of P should exist in refractory forms. The volatile P elemental abundance of L1544 is smaller than that in the coma of comet 67P/C-G, implying that the conversion of refractory phosphorus to volatile phosphorus could have occurred along the trail from the presolar core to the protosolar disk through, e.g., sputtering by accretion/outflow shocks.
D5.7. Report on the use of multiple EBV data streams and derived indicators for cross-cutting assessments of biodiversity
Authors: Fernández Néstor , Álvarez-Martínez José Manuel , Brotons Lluís , Ceia-Hasse Ana , Buchhorn Marcel , Capinha César , Demars Benoît O. L. , Guerra Carlos , Jandt Ute , Jimenez-Alfaro Borja , Kissling W. Daniel , Lumbierres Maria , Marmol-Guijarro Andres , Pereira Henrique M. , Lyche Solheim Anne , Shamoun-Baranes Judy , Smets Bruno
Published: June 2024

This report discusses the potential synergies of the EBVs developed in each showcase, in conjunction with existing environmental policies, for a comprehensive assessment of European biodiversity.
Experimental study of solvent effect on the heat transfer characteristics of 4-[(4-aminophenyl)-(4-imino-1-cyclohexa-2,5-dienylidene) methyl] aniline hydrochloride – A concentration based study
Authors: Pathrose Bini P. , Nampoori V. P. N. , Mujeeb A.
Published: June 2024

The thermal diffusivity calculations of 4-[(4-aminophenyl)-(4-imino-1-cyclohexa-2,5-dienylidene) methyl] aniline hydrochloride were made for four distinct concentrations of dye dissolved in three solvents. The number of dye aggregates at higher concentrations produce more random collisions. Because of this, heat diffusion will be slower and a reduced thermal diffusivity value was observed. Due to the increased number of dye molecules, cluster formation can also occur at higher concentrations which further reduces the thermal transport through the media. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) showed the vibrational bonds of the dye in the three solvents. The dye dissolved in acetone showed higher diffusivity as compared to the other two solvents. Our studies revealed that thermal diffusivity of the dye under study is strongly solvent dependent as well as concentration dependent. The dye under study could be effectively used as insulators or heat sinks with proper choice of concentration and solvent.
Amalophyllon miraculum (Gesneriaceae), an exceptionally small lithophilous new species from the western Andean slopes of Ecuador
Authors: Clark John L. , Fernández Andrea , Zapata J. Nicolás , Restrepo-Villarroel Camilo , White Dawson M. , Pitman Nigel C. A.
Published: June 2024

Recent exploratory field expeditions to the western slopes of the Ecuadorian Andes resulted in the discovery of a new species of Amalophyllon (Gesneriaceae). Amalophyllon miraculum J.L.Clark, sp. nov. is described from two localities in the Centinela region in the Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas province. The new species is differentiated from congeners by the pendent habit, basal rosette of leaves, leaf blades with deeply serrate margins, and miniature size. Based on IUCN guidelines, a preliminary conservation status is assigned as Critically Endangered (CR).
Prototype Biodiversity Digital Twin: prioritisation of DNA metabarcoding sampling locations
Authors: Frøslev Tobias , Boyd Robin , Schigel Dmitry
Published: June 2024

Advancements in environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding have revolutionised our capacity to assess biodiversity, especially for cryptic or less-studied organisms, such as fungi, bacteria and micro-invertebrates. Despite its cost-effectiveness, the spatial selection for sampling sites remains a critical challenge due to the considerable time and resources required for processing and analysing eDNA samples. This study introduces a Biodiversity Digital Twin Prototype, aimed at optimising the selection and prioritisation of eDNA sampling locations. Leveraging available eDNA data and integrating user-defined criteria, this digital twin facilitates informed decision-making in selecting future sampling sites. Through the development of an associated data formatting tool, we also facilitate the accessibility and utility of DNA metabarcoding data for broader conservation efforts. This prototype will serve multiple end-users, from researchers and monitoring initiatives to commercial enterprises, by providing an intuitive interface for interactive exploration and prioritisation, based on estimated complementarity of future samples. The prototype offers a scalable approach to biodiversity sampling. Ultimately, this tool aims to refine our understanding of global biodiversity patterns and support targeted conservation strategies through efficient eDNA sampling.
La transition écologique à l’épreuve des sciences sociales du politique
Authors: Nicolas Frédéric , Montrieux Gabriel , Bourad Aïcha
Published: June 2024

Face à la crise climatique, l’injonction à agir urgemment n’a jamais été aussi présente, mais contraste avec la forte inertie des politiques écologiques. Ce numéro de Politix prend le parti d’adopter une approche de sociologie générale et de sciences sociales du politique qui consiste à reconnaître la dimension particulièrement agonistique de la fabrique des politiques écologiques, tant dans l’espace social en général que dans les champs politique, bureaucratique et économique ou dans l’espace des mouvements sociaux et environnementaux. L’inertie des politiques écologiques est dès lors appréhendée à la fois comme le produit de structures sociales de domination et comme le vecteur de leur reproduction. Les groupes et acteurs sociaux qui occupent au sein de ces structures des positions dominantes sont parvenus non pas à rejeter les injonctions environnementales, mais à les rendre compatibles avec la préservation de leurs positions dominantes. Participant de différentes manières à la (re)définition et à la mise en œuvre de politiques écologiques, ces acteurs participent à dessiner les contours d’une question environnementale qui s’impose sans modifier en profondeur l’état des rapports sociaux.
De nouveaux « passe-droits » aux réglementations environnementales : outils numériques et transition écologique des pratiques agricoles
Authors: Oui Jeanne
Published: June 2024

En réponse aux controverses et politiques publiques visant à réguler les pollutions environnementales provoquées par les pratiques agricoles de fertilisation sur les milieux aquatiques, différentes voies d’accompagnement à l’écologisation sont proposées par les scientifiques et les organismes de conseil aux agriculteurs et agricultrices. L’une d’entre elles est numérique : des logiciels de gestion et des outils d’aide à la décision (des services de conseil numériques) sont promus comme des intermédiaires sociotechniques de la mise en œuvre de la directive européenne sur les nitrates au niveau des exploitations. Par une enquête qualitative parmi les scientifiques, les entreprises concevant les outils et des agriculteurs céréaliers utilisant ces technologies, cet article revient sur la trajectoire technique et politique par laquelle ces outils deviennent des « objets-intermédiaires » de l’écologisation et les effets de ces technologies sur la mise en place effective de la réglementation environnementale au niveau des fermes. Au prisme de la sociologie des mondes agricoles, de la sociologie des politiques publiques environnementales et des Science and Technology Studies (STS), l’article montre que ces outils participent de processus d’inertie écologique (au niveau de leur conception technique, leurs usages et leurs futurs) et ouvrent des « passe-droits » numériques dans la réglementation environnementale, inégalement appropriés au sein des mondes agricoles.
Design of an explicit crack bridging constitutive model for engineered cementitious composites using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) or polyethylene (PE) fiber
Authors: Wang Z. , Li B. , Li L. , Zhang Z.
Published: June 2024

This paper aims to establish an explicit crack bridging model that can link engineered cementitious composites (ECC) behavior from single fiber to single crack scale, which is great of designing ECC featuring pseudo tensile strain hardening and multiple cracks expanding by tailoring microstructure and materials selection. In this study, fiber bridging stress was divided into three parts including fiber bridging stress with no rupture, fiber debonding fracture stress, and fiber pullout fracture stress. Subsequently, the fundamental crack bridging model was emerged when fiber bridging stress with no rupture subtracted from the fiber rupture stress in debonding and pullout stage. Moreover, two-way pullout and Cook-Gordon effect were also considered to establish the complete model. It was found that the two-way pullout situation of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) fiber has a significant influence on the crack opening width due to its slip hardening property, while the Cook-Gordon effect presents a faint crack width increment for PVA-ECC. However, the Cook-Gordon effect makes a significant contribution to the crack opening width of the composite produced by polyethylene (PE). This building intelligible model presents a better prediction for ECC through the comparison of experimental data or real average crack width in previous models, thus confirming the validity of this model.
Biological Individuality Is Not Necessarily an Intrinsic Property
Authors: Holzapfel Cristóbal Unwin
Published: June 2024

A significant and longstanding debate in philosophy of biology has centered around biological individuality. Although there have been numerous attempts to articulate a plausible and unifying view of what makes something a biological individual, the results are often conflicting and non-coextensive. In spite of these disputes, an open consensus around a few general ideas has surfaced (Pradeu 2016a). One common assumption that has been carried over with the consensus is that biological individuality is an intrinsic property of biological entities (Clarke 2016a). This tendency is reflected in the properties typically selected as criteria: what makes something an individual is quite often a property that biological entities themselves possess. I draw on Ellen Clarke’s (2013) evolutionary account of biological individuality, research about the evolution and maintenance of cooperation in the origins of multicellularity (Brockhurst et al. 2007; Gulli et al. 2019), and important parts of the consensus around biological individuality to argue against this trend. What makes something a biological individual is not always something about the entities in question. I show that there are environmental mechanisms capable of acting as individuation mechanisms in circumstances that resemble early transition stages, or in situations where individuality departs from paradigm cases. Therefore, biological individuality is not necessarily an intrinsic property.
Joan Brossa 1960 : poésie et quotidienneté
Authors: Audí Marc
Published: June 2024

Cet article propose d’étudier la production poétique de Joan Brossa en 1960 sous le prisme du réalisme. L’imbrication des recherches littéraires et plastiques dans son œuvre explique l’écart de sa poétique vis-à-vis du réalisme engagé catalan et espagnol, qui parvient alors à un statut quasi officiel. Brossa propose, à la fois dans ses poèmes littéraires et dans ses poèmes visuels, de nouvelles méthodes de prélèvement direct sur le réel, qui relient ses questionnements en particulier au Nouveau Réalisme parisien.
Vacances pagades de Pere Quart: una lectura dels seus títols
Authors: Güell Mònica
Published: June 2024

On offre ici une lecture du recueil Vacances pagades (1960) de Pere Quart à travers les titres de ses poèmes. Après avoir établi une typologie des titres, on analyse quelques poèmes où la voix personnelle entre en résonance avec une voix collective.
Passejades i immobilitat a Mirall trencat: entre realisme i simbolisme
Authors: Audí Marc
Published: June 2024

Dans Mirall trencat alternent deux motifs opposés : le mouvement et l'immobilité. La tension entre les deux motifs se situe à l'intérieur même des personnages, des situations, et même de l'écriture rodoredienne. À partir d'un relevé et d'une brève description de ces alternances et de leurs nombreuses variations nous proposons une lecture ouverte du roman, qui correspond à la volonté de l'auteur de briser l'univocité de la mimesis de tradition réaliste.
L'oralitat com a experimentació en la poesia catalana de finals del segle XX
Authors: Costa Lis
Published: June 2024

Cette communication recense les poètes catalans qui au cours des vingt dernières années ont choisi de faire connaître leur poésie au moyen (parfois exclusif) du récital, et s'interroge sur la nature et l'impact du phénomène de la poésie orale en Catalogne.
Jaume I fou un rei piadós?
Authors: Cingolani Stefano Maria
Published: June 2024

Les historiens médiévaux, modernes et contemporains ont toujours jugé favorablement de la religiosité du roi Jacques Ier, en laissant éventuellement de côté certains épisodes douteux. Une analyse plus attentive, et moins entachée de préjugés catholiques, permet de considérer celle-ci comme une construction historiographique demandant une nouvelle approche plus conforme à la religiosité laïque du XIIIe siècle.
La novel·la policíaca i la llengua col·loquial
Authors: Niubo François
Published: June 2024

La langue catalane est confrontée, sur son propre territoire, à la concurrence du castillan. Ses défenseurs, tout particulièrement les écrivains, ont longtemps lutté pour préserver une langue écrite à la fois viable et « authentique », c'est-à-dire sans influences du castillan. Mais cette préoccupation d’authenticité s’oppose au principe de vraisemblance dans certains genres, comme le roman policier où il peut être nécessaire, ou simplement utile, d’employer la langue parlée informelle. Or celle-ci est de plus en plus parsemée de castillanismes, tant dans le lexique que dans la syntaxe. Le but de cette étude est de mettre en évidence les problèmes rencontrés par les écrivains et les procédés employés pour résoudre, contourner ou assumer ces contradictions.
Autotraducció i creació literària. El cas de Sebastià Juan Arbó
Authors: Ramis Josep Miquel
Published: June 2024

Sebastià Juan Arbó (1902-1984) fut un écrivain exclusivement de langue catalane jusqu’à la Guerre Civile espagnole. À cause du dénouement du conflit, Arbó écrivit en langue espagnole, puis, à la fin de la prohibition de publier en catalan, il le fit dans les deux langues. Le passage d’une langue à l’autre se fit aussi par l’intermédiaire de l’auto-traduction. Cet article étudie l’auto-traduction chez Arbó, les conditions et les conséquences de ce choix dans le contexte d’une littérature catalane marginalisée dans l’après-guerre civile espagnole. On y constate aussi la reconnaissance du travail d’auto-traduction comme une partie du processus créatif de son œuvre de fiction.
Política cultural de la Generalitat de Catalunya: cap a una “normalitat” cultural? El Departament de cultura i mitjans de comunicació (1980-1984)
Authors: Llombart Huesca Maria
Published: June 2024

Après quatre décennies de dictature, la restauration des institutions catalanes fut le point de départ d'un processus de (re)construction nationale. A partir de l'analyse de la politique menée par le Département de la culture de la Generalitat de Catalogne entre 1980 et 1984, cet article a comme objectif de mettre en évidence le rôle central joué par la politique culturelle dans ce projet identitaire et la création de liens indissolubles entre langue, culture et identité. La Catalogne avançait ainsi en quête d'une normalité toujours difficile à définir et encore plus à atteindre.
Governance structure and its links with justice in the context of cooperative organizations
Authors: Cavalheiro Rafael Todescato , Kremer Andréia Maria , Gimenes Régio Márcio Toesca
Published: June 2024

Objective: Cooperative organizations have unique characteristics in their processes and control structures. Given the nature of the relationships that permeate them, justice has stood out as the basis of these relationships, given that the organizations involved seek justice when comparing the rewards and costs involved in interactions. The objective of this essay is to present a theoretical model that makes it possible to explain the links between the governance package (PGov) and the cooperative members' perception of justice and how both reflect on the relational performance of cooperative organizations.Method: This study adopts the theoretical essay method, and assumes the epistemological dimension of structuralism, which generally seeks to explore the structure of the phenomenon and, through its essence, determine its determinant links and interrelationships (Triviños, 1997).Originality/Relevance: Despite advances in understanding the role of control and governance in interorganizational relationships (Ding, Dekker, & Groot, 2013), studies that consider the perspective of justice are still scarce (Dhaundiyal & Coughlan, 2020; Su, Zhang and Guo (2020), and who strive to understand the impacts of these links on performance, which is a differential of the model presented in this essay.Results: This study proposes a model for analyzing the links between the PGov, Organizational Justice and its effects on relational performance. To do so, it was based on the governance and management control structures defended by van der Meer-Kooistra and Scapens (2008), in organizational justice, outlined in its three aspects: distributive justice, procedural justice and interactional justice, addressed by Luo (2007), as well as the notions of relational performance adopted by Su et al. (2020).Theoretical/methodological/practical contributions: The application of the model can bring practical contributions, specifically for the review of the cooperative's PGov and the governance structures to be reformulated (or not), in order to reinforce the justice perceived by the cooperative members. In this way, it is believed that the use of the model will enable the ideal channels of justice to be identified, enhancing the reach of the governance structure and the achievement of the objectives of cooperative organizations.
Integrated Phase Field and Machine Learning Study of Microstructure Evolution during Interface-Controlled Spinodal Decomposition
Authors: Ahmad Owais , Maurya Rakesh , Mukherjee Rajdip , Bhowmick Somnath
Published: June 2024

This study leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to advance materials science, focusing on microstructural evolution in binary alloys during spinodal decomposition. Following the formulation of Zhu et al., we explore the microstructure evolution during interface-controlled spinodal decomposition. A comprehensive dataset captures the dynamic microstructural changes, highlighting the model's efficiency in analyzing complex data. The innovative use of an Autoencoder- ConvLSTM model enables precise, low-error microstructural transformation predictions, demonstrating AI’s potential in materials science research. This work provides a deeper understanding of material behaviors and offers new research directions.
Tribological Properties of Spark Plasma Sintered Ti48Al48Cr2Nb2 Alloy
Authors: Mphahlele Mahlatse R. , Olubambi Peter Apata , Olevsky Eugene
Published: June 2024

Ti48Al48Cr2Nb2 intermetallic alloy was studied for its tribological properties. The as-received TiAl alloy was prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS) at 1200 °C for 5 and 7 min using 50 and 100 °C/min heating rates. Wear tests were done on the sintered TiAl under 10 N at room temperature in air. Results showed that an increase in relative density and superior microhardness led to a reduced material loss in the sample sintered for 7.5 min using a 100 °C/min heating rate. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the worn surface showed the wear widths and wear marks on the surface of TiAl alloy. The wear track width indicated the degree of wear, and the samples sintered for 7.5 min using a 100 °C/min heating rate showed improvement in wear resistance.
Effects of Sn on Corrosion Resistance of Rare-Earth-Free Mg-2Zn Alloy
Authors: Tasnim Aniqa , Kumar Roy Chanchal , Rashed H.M. Mamun Al
Published: June 2024

Alloys of Magnesium metal have attracted the attention of the automobile industries in the past two decades due to their greater specific strength as well as stiffness. However, increasing the corrosion performance of alloys of magnesium has remained a prime concern in order to attain better performance without using expensive rare-earth elements. In this study, the result of Sn addition (0%, 2%, 4%) to hot rolled binary Mg-2Zn alloy was examined in terms of their corrosion and microstructural properties. To understand microstructural features, optical micrography, and SEM-EDX study were conducted. SEM and EDX analysis confirmed the presence of Sn phase after 2% and 4% addition of Sn. The number of particles increased with the gradual increase in the addition of Sn. However, Sn lowered the melting point of Zn precipitates. Thus, the presence of Zn particles was reduced with the addition of Sn. Electrochemical analyses were conducted in order to study the corrosion performance of the selected alloys by submerging it in NaCl (3.5 wt.%) solution, supported by the SEM micrographs of the corroded surface. It was found that adding tin up to 2% increases corrosion resistance. The addition of 4% Sn, on the other hand, introduced large-size particles of Mg2Sn, leading to local corrosion initiation sites, micro galvanic in nature, and hence, reducing corrosion resistance.
Characterization of physicochemical parameters and insect composition in a reservoir in Northern Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Jonah U. E. , Akpan I. I.
Published: June 2024

This study was conducted in a reservoir located in Mbiabet Ikot Udo community, Northern Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, to assess the physicochemical status, composition and abundance of aquatic insects. Samples were collected from June 2022 to January 2023 and all the parameters were evaluated using standard methods. The results revealed that temperature ranged from 22.7 to 30.6°C, TDS (153 – 238 mgL-1), EC (153 – 238μScm-1), TDS (97.9 –152.3mgL-1), pH (6.3 – 8.1), DO (2.22 – 5.14 mgL-1), TSS (1.62 – 6.34 mgL-1), NO-3 (1.53 – 5.68 mgL-1), PO-4 (2.18 – 4.16 mgL-1), Mg2+ (3.92 – 5.36 mgL-1), Ca2+ (5.39 – 8.13 mgL-1), Na+ (0.72 – 2.37 mgL-1), K+ (0.68 – 1.48 mgL-1), BOD (1.34 – 6.46mgL-1), Ni (0.001 – 0.08 mgL-1), Fe (0.1 – 0.3 mgL-1), Pb (0.003 – 0.008 mgL-1), Cu (0.01 – 1.3 mgL-1) and Cd (0.002 – 0.008). There were significant temporal variations in some of these parameters. However, all the parameters were within the acceptable limits, except for TSS, BOD, DO, Ni, Cu and Fe. A total of 185 species of aquatic insects, in five taxonomic orders and 10 families, were recorded. Odonata had the highest percentage (40.5%), followed by Hemiptera (25.0%), and Diptera had the lowest percentage (8.6%). The dominant family was Aeshnidae (18.9%) while the least percentage was from Pleidae (1.1%). The analysis revealed that parameters such as temperature, DO, pH, Ca2+, EC, TDS and Cu negatively influenced the abundance of aquatic insects coupled with seasonal influence.
The hunting journal of Robert Briggs Struthers in the Zulu kingdom and the Tsonga regions 1852-56
Authors: Cubbin A.E.
Published: June 2024

No abstract available.
Industrialisasie, verstedeliking en gesondheid: die gesondheid van swartes in Brakpan 1919-1945
Authors: De Meillon Francois
Published: June 2024

From the town's attainment of municipal status in 1919, the Brakpan health department experienced serious difficulties in providing all aspects of proper health care due to the population growth. Within the context of the health legislation of that time and white conceptions of black inferiority, the health services offered to blacks in Brakpan had serious limitations. Blacks were excluded from formal health structures and the quality of both medical services and health facilities for blacks was distinctly lower than those for whites. However over this period blacks gradually moved away from their traditional health practices as they began to experience the advantages of western medicine.
Level of Health Literacy Predict the Self-Care Activities in Middle Age with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Rosyida Ratna W. , Sulistiyani Apri D.
Published: June 2024

Introduction:

Diabetes mellitus has increased over the years. Adequate self-care activities will improve outcomes optimally. Health literacy was the important factor that affected self-care activities. The prediction of health literacy to define the capability of self-care activities need to be identified. Health literacy among adults with T2DM can be the guidance of health worker to give the intervention in improving self-care activities. To examine the health literacy as a predictor of self-care activities among T2DM. A cross-sectional analytical study conducted in 101 patients in Primary Health Center with T2DM.

Methods:

Self-reported questionnaires were demographic and clinical characteristics questionnaire, HLS-EU-16Q and SDSCA Indonesian Version. Research was conducted after ethical clearance has been approved. Multivariate analysis with hierarchical linear regression and all the data were managed by SPSS v. 20.

Results:

Most of the respondents were in the middle age, female (68.3%), unemployed, secondary education-graduated (45.5%), having diabetes <5 years (65.3%), with no complication and history of smoking. The middle age and health literacy related to self-care activities with P = 0.03 and P = 0.02, respectively. The age and the presence of complication explained 9.8% and 2% of the self-care activities. The predictors that included age, the presence of complication and health literacy (P < 0.05) explained 15,3% of the variance in self-care activities among type 2 DM.

Conclusion:

The presence of complication, age and health literacy was significant predictors of self-care activities among people with T2DM in Indonesia.
Comparison of Bioelectrical Impedance Analyser (BIA) with Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA) Scan in Assessing the Body Composition of Adult Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Dastidar Srijoni G. , Gargari Piyas , Das Debaditya , Chowdhury Subhankar
Published: June 2024

Introduction:

Assessing the body composition is important in adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus to prevent and achieve optimum control during treatment. Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), being a more affordable method of assessing the body composition, should therefore be compared with the gold standard dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) to look for a correlation between the two and the potential of BIA to be used widely in this population. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 60 patients attending the endocrinology outpatient department (OPD) of a tertiary care centre in Kolkata, India.

Methods:

Body composition was measured by both BIA and DXA. Intra-class correlation (ICC) values were calculated between the two methods for fat mass and fat-free mass for three body mass index (BMI) groups and overall.

Results:

DXA and BIA correlated well for both fat mass and fat-free mass in the entire study population and in the non-overweight non-obese group (BMI <23) and the obese group (BMI ≥25). However, the overweight group (23 ≥BMI <25) did not correlate well with the above-mentioned parameters.

Conclusion:

We suggest interchangeable use of the two methods in the non-overweight non-obese (BM I <23) and obese (BMI ≥25) BMI groups of adult subjects with type 2 diabetes mellitus. However, the low correlation for all parameters in the overweight group points towards exercising caution when taking such measurements by BIA and planning a further study with a larger cohort of such individuals to better evaluate the said correlation.
Evaluation of eosinophil, immune-globulin E and Interleukin 6 levels in bronchial asthmatic children after management with needle and laser acupuncture
Authors: Ahmed Kamel Inas E M. , Shaaban Hala H. , Zikri Emad N
Published: June 2024

Background/aim

Bronchial asthma is a disabling disease causing interruption with the daily activities of children. Acupuncture proved to be beneficial in improving the symptoms of the disease and decreasing the dose of conventional medications that must be taken and may have serious side effects. This study aims to evaluate the variations of some inflammatory and immunity markers such as Eosinophil, immune-globulin E (IgE), and Interleukin 6 (IL6) in bronchial asthmatic children after treatment with needle and laser acupuncture.

Patients and methods

In this randomized controlled clinical trial, we included 75 patients divided into three groups. Each group has 25 children. The patients in the first group received laser sessions three times a week for 4 weeks. Those in the second group were treated by needle acupuncture during the same period of time, while the children in third group received only conventional medications and were used as control. Complete blood cell count, which reveals eosinophilic count, was determined, as well as serum IgE and IL6 were measured using Elisa techniques at baseline and after one month of treatment.

Results

All the patients in the three groups showed significant improvement concerning their symptoms and laboratory parameters number of attacks/week and night awakens/month all decrease significantly (P<0.001) also IgE (P<0.001) after 1 month of treatment with needle or laser. However, children receiving needle and laser sessions showed more significant improvement (P<0.05) than the control group, with no differences between the two groups. White blood cells, eosinophils, IgE, IL 6 were statistically decreased (P<0.05) after the end of the sessions.

Conclusion

Needle and laser acupuncture proved efficient in relieving the symptoms of the bronchial asthma in children more than conventional medications alone, as well as Eosinophil, IgE, and IL6 levels were significantly decreased after the treatment.
Antihyperlipidemic and cardiopreventive properties of Arabic gum in nicotinamide/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Ahmed Osama M. , Mosa Nermeen M. , Abou-Seif Howida S.
Published: June 2024

Background/Aim

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications have a negative impact on human health and the economy worldwide. Diabetic patients are at a high risk of dying from cardiovascular diseases. Arabic gum (AG) is a natural product that exhibits potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and hypoglycemic properties. The purpose of this study was to scrutinize the antihyperlipidemic and cardiopreventive efficacy and to assess the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory roles of AG in nicotinamide (NA)/streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DM in rats.

Material and methods

Three groups of 18 adult (6 each) male Wistar rats each were used for the experiment. The first group was the normal control group, which received 0.9% NaCl daily by oral gavage for 8 weeks. The rats in the second group were injected with 60 mg/kg b.w. STZ in citrate buffer (pH 4.5) intraperitoneally (IP), after being given intraperitoneally 120 mg/kg b.w. NA. They also received 0.9% NaCl daily by oral gavage for 8 weeks. The third group was treated with 20 mg AG/kg b.w./day suspended in 0.9% NaCl by oral gavage for 8 weeks after inducing DM in the same way as the second group.

Results

Hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia were observed in DM rats. They also had significantly higher levels (P<0.05) of serum creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase myocardial band (CK-MB), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), which indicate heart dysfunction. The diabetic heart suffered from oxidative stress, as shown by significant increases (P<0.05) of malondialdehyde (MDA) and decreased glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and superoxide dismutase values (SOD). AG treatment improved blood glucose and serum lipid levels, as well as heart function biomarkers in serum. AG also reduced oxidative stress and enhanced antioxidant defenses in the diabetic heart. Immune-inflammatory markers, such as nuclear factor-kappa B and tumor necrosis factor-α and apoptotic protein p53 expressions were elevated in diabetic rats (P<0.05) markedly, but the treatment with AG exhibited normal levels for them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study demonstrated that AG has a preventive role against heart injury in NA/STZ-induced DM in rats. AG improved the metabolic, oxidative, and inflammatory status as well as apoptosis and their cardiac function in diabetic rats. Moreover, AG improved the histological picture of cardiac myocytes and therefore, it may be a potential natural remedy for diabetic cardiomyopathy.
Monogenic diabetes in children: An underdiagnosed and poorly managed clinical dilemma
Authors: Bhattacharya Saptarshi , Pappachan Joseph M
Published: June 2024

Monogenic diabetes, constituting 1%-2% of global diabetes cases, arises from single gene defects with distinctive inheritance patterns. Despite over 50 ass-ociated genetic disorders, accurate diagnoses and management of monogenic diabetes remain inadequate, underscoring insufficient clinician awareness. The disease spectrum encompasses maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY), characterized by distinct genetic mutations affecting insulin secretion, and neonatal diabetes mellitus (NDM) – a heterogeneous group of severe hyperglycemic disorders in infants. Mitochondrial diabetes, autoimmune monogenic diabetes, genetic insulin resistance and lipodystrophy syndromes further diversify the monogenic diabetes landscape. A tailored approach based on phenotypic and biochemical factors to identify candidates for genetic screening is recommended for suspected cases of MODY. NDM diagnosis warrants immediate molecular genetic testing for infants under six months. Identifying these genetic defects presents a unique opportunity for precision medicine. Ongoing research aimed to develop cost-effective genetic testing methods and gene-based therapy can facilitate appropriate identification and optimize clinical outcomes. Identification and study of new genes offer a valuable opportunity to gain deeper insights into pancreatic cell biology and the pathogenic mechanisms underlying common forms of diabetes. The clinical review published in the recent issue of World Journal of Diabetes is such an attempt to fill-in our knowledge gap about this enigmatic disease.
Boron-containing compounds as labels, drugs, and theranostic agents for diabetes and its complications
Authors: Soriano-Ursúa Marvin A , Cordova-Chávez R Ivan , Farfan-García Eunice D , Kabalka George
Published: June 2024

Diabetes is a disease with a high global burden. Current strategies have failed to limit the advancement and impact of the disease. Successful early diagnosis and treatment will require the development of new agents. In this sense, boron-containing compounds have been reported as agents with the ability to reduce glycemia and lipidemia. They have also been used for labeling and measuring carbohydrates and other molecules linked to the initial stages of diabetes and its progression. In addition, certain boron compounds bind to molecules related to diabetes development and their biological activity in the regulation of elevated glycemia. Finally, it should be noted that some boron compounds appear to exert beneficial effects on diabetes complications such as accelerating wound healing while ameliorating pain in diabetic patients.
Atorvastatin ameliorated myocardial fibrosis by inhibiting oxidative stress and modulating macrophage polarization in diabetic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Lei Xiao-Tian , Pu Dan-Lan , Shan Geng , Wu Qi-Nan
Published: June 2024

In this editorial, we commented on the article published in the recent issue of the World Journal of Diabetes . Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is characterized by myocardial fibrosis, ventricular hypertrophy and diastolic dysfunction in diabetic patients, which can cause heart failure and threaten the life of patients. The pathogenesis of DCM has not been fully clarified, and it may involve oxidative stress, inflammatory stimulation, apoptosis, and autophagy. There is lack of effective therapies for DCM in the clinical practice. Statins have been widely used in the clinical practice for years mainly to reduce cholesterol and stabilize arterial plaques, and exhibit definite cardiovascular protective effects. Studies have shown that statins also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. We were particularly concerned about the recent findings that atorvastatin alleviated myocardial fibrosis in db/db mice by regulating the antioxidant stress and anti-inflammatory effects of macrophage polarization on diabetic myocardium, and thereby improving DCM.
New perspectives in the management of diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Psyllaki Anna , Tziomalos Konstantinos
Published: June 2024

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease and is also associated with increased risk for cardiovascular events. Until recently, strict glycemic control and blockade of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) constituted the mainstay of treatment of DN. However, randomized controlled trials showed that sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors further reduce the progression of DN. Therefore, these agents are recommended in all patients with DN regardless of DN stage and HbA1c levels. Moreover, additional blockade of the RAS with finerenone, a selective non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist, was also shown to prevent both the decline of renal function and cardiovascular events in this population. Finally, promising preliminary findings suggest that glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists might also exert reno- and cardioprotective effects in patients with DN. Hopefully, this knowledge will improve the outcomes of this high-risk group of patients.
Unraveling the biological link between diabetes mellitus and prostate cancer: Insights and implications
Authors: Li Jian , Li Zhi-Peng , Xu Si-Si , Wang Wei
Published: June 2024

This article is a comprehensive study based on research on the connection between diabetes mellitus (DM) and prostate cancer (PCa). It investigates the potential role of DM as an independent risk factor for PCa, delving into the biological links, including insulin resistance and hormonal changes. The paper critically analyzes previous studies that have shown varying results and introduces mendelian randomization as a method for establishing causality. It emphasizes the importance of early DM screening and lifestyle modifications in preventing PCa, and proposes future research directions for further under-standing the DM - PCa relationship.
Case Report: First Report of Mucocutaneous Leishmaniasis in Algeria: Observations from a Case Report
Authors: Seklaoui Nacera , Izri Arezki , Tablit Islam , Chergou Mustapha , Hamrioui Boussad , Akhoundi Mohammad
Published: June 2024

We present the first case of mucocutaneous leishmaniasis in Algeria, diagnosed in an immunocompetent 42-year-old man exhibiting an infiltrated and ulcerated plaque leading to macrocheilitis of the entire lower lip. He was a police officer who lived in a village in Ain El Hammam (Kabylie region, known as an active focus of zoonotic visceral leishmaniasis) without any history of travel for the previous 3 years. He suffered from cutaneous lesions for 22 months due to the misdiagnosis of a skin lesion resembling other diseases such as Crohn disease or sarcoidosis. A compilation of clinical, histopathological, parasitological, and molecular examinations revealed Leishmania infantum as the etiologic agent. The patient was treated with meglumine antimoniate, which resulted in the complete disappearance of the lesion 4 months after treatment.
Source identification of ultrafine particulate matter and ammonia emissions in the metropolitan area
Authors: Heo Jaeseok , Kim Pilho , Park Jongsung , Lee Jae Young
Published: June 2024

Previous studies have estimated the sources of particulate matter in the atmosphere. Among these, studying the sources of secondary aerosols harmful to human health is important. However, there is a lack of research on ammonia (NH3), a precursor to secondary aerosol formation. This study uses positive matrix factorization (PMF) model and conditional bivariate probability function (CBPF) model to estimate the sources of particulate matter and ammonia. The results showed that about 40% of the PM2.5 mass at both sites was attributable to secondary aerosol. To estimate the emission sources of ammonia that contribute to the generation of secondary aerosols, CBPF was utilized to model and compare the emission characteristics of categorized pollution sources and ammonia, and it was found that SMA had similar emission trends to industry, road dust, oil combustion, and biomass combustion, while GRA had similar emission trends to oil combustion and vehicle (diesel). Considering the results from these two regions, ammonia in the metropolitan area is more likely to be emitted from daily activities than from long distances. The study results demonstrate the major role of secondary aerosols on ambient PM2.5 concentrations and can help develop effective management strategies and policies for air pollution mitigation.
Geological setting, lead-zinc mineralization characteristics and its potential prospects in the Na Bop - Pu Sap area, Cho Don, Northeastern Vietnam
Authors: Khuong Hung The , Ngo Dac Xuan , Ta Toan Thi , Phan Duong Thuy Thi ,   Hanoi University of Mining and Geology, Hanoi, Vietnam
  The Vietnam Institute of Geosciences and Mineral Resources, Hanoi, Vietnam
Published: June 2024

The Lo Gam structural zone is recognized as a crucial area for the occurrence of lead-zinc deposits in Northeast Vietnam, encompassing the distinguished territories of Cho Dien and Cho Don. Specifically, within the Cho Don area, the Na Bop-Pu Sap area emerges as particularly noteworthy owing to the considerable scale and quality of its lead-zinc ore deposits. In order to comprehensively investigate the geological attributes and lead-zinc mineralization phenomena prevalent in Na Bop-Pu Sap, a suite of analytical techniques including petrographic analyses, mineralogical examinations, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and ICP-MS were employed. Furthermore, stable isotope investigations and single mineral sphalerite analyses were conducted to assess the origin of metal constituents and the physicochemical conditions conducive to ore genesis. The Na Bop-Pu Sap area is under the influence of the NW-SE fault system, with the ore structure predominantly manifesting as bands and veins aligned parallel to the foliations of hosted rock. This configuration suggests a close association between the formation of lead-zinc ore and the foliation processes occurring within the shear zones. The assemblage of ore minerals within the region primarily comprises galena, sphalerite, pyrite, pyrrhotite, and arsenopyrite. Integration of S and Pb isotopic analyses alongside single mineral sphalerite assessments reveals that the ore-forming solutions emanate from both magmatic activity and sedimentary sources, with lead-zinc ore deposition occurring at temperatures ranging from low to medium. Projections suggest that the Na Bop-Pu Sap mining area may exhibit relative degrees of erosion extending to depths of approximately 600 meters below the existing terrain surface. This comprehensive examination of the ore characteristics in the Na Bop-Pu Sap mine area yields invaluable insights, thereby advancing our understanding of the potential for deep-seated lead-zinc mineral resources within the Northeastern Vietnam.
Study on topsoil chemical characteristics in Bao Thang district, Lao Cai province for agricultural development
Authors: Nguyen Lien Thi , Pham Dung Thi , Tran Anh Tuan , Nguyen Qua Xuan , Pham Dang Thanh , Doan Tra Thu Thi , Dang Tuan Minh , Tran Hien Trong ,   Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
Published: June 2024

Researching some chemical characteristics of topsoil in Bao Thang district, Lao Cai province to serve the management, planning, and reasonable use of agricultural land resources is very necessary, especially for identifying areas for growing specialty crops to convert crop purposes and improving local people’s lives. Result analysis of pHsoil, organic carbon (OC), organic matter (OM), major elements and trace elements from 49 topsoil samples taken at depths from 0÷20 cm on different formations in Bao Thang district, Lao Cai province shows that topsoil in Bao Thang district has pH in the slightly acidic to neutral soil group, OM and OC in moderate concentrations. The chemical composition of soil samples shows a relationship with bedrock. The geochemical characteristics of topsoils are high Fe2O3, poor to rich K2O and rich P2O5. Some trace elements in the topsoil of different fomations have lower or equivalent concentrations with those in the world’s soil and are consistent with the safety threshold of National technical regulation on soil quality (QCVN 03:2023/BTNMT), except Cr and Zn. This issue needs to be paid attention to during cultivation and agricultural production.