bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-Resonant Fibre-Optic Ultrasound Sensors
Authors: Shagroun Fadwa , Colchester Richard , Alles Erwin
Published: March 2024

The small size, high sensitivity, broad detection bandwidth and immunity to electromagnetic interference of fibre-optic ultrasound sensors make them highly attractive for applications in biomedical imaging, metrology, non-destructive testing and structural health monitoring. Typically, such sensors derive their sensitivity from optically resonant structures, such as Fabry-Pérot cavities, which require specialist equipment for accurate fabrication. Here, a fibre-optic ultrasound sensor is presented that does not contain an optically or mechanically resonant sensing element, but instead comprises a simple deformable and reflective structure at its tip. This structure, which was fabricated manually using simple dip-coating methods, was interrogated by a fibre-coupled laser Doppler vibrometer that measured the absolute velocity of the reflective surface. This approach achieved a sensitivity, signal-to-noise ratio and noise-equivalent pressure approaching those obtained with Fabry-Pérot sensors, and substantially higher than those typically observed for piezoelectric hydrophones, whilst offering turn-key operation.
Novel rpsK / rpsD primer-probe assay improves detection of Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli in human stool
Authors: Schiaffino Francesca , Parker Craig T. , Garcia Bardales Paul F. , Huynh Steven , Manzanares Villanueva Katia , Mourkas Evangelos , Pascoe Ben , Peñataro Yori Pablo , Paredes Olortegui Maribel , Houpt Eric R. , Liu Jie , Cooper Kerry K. , Kosek Margaret N.
Published: March 2024

Campylobacter causes bacterial enteritis, dysentery, and growth faltering in children in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Campylobacter spp. are fastidious organisms, and their detection often relies on culture independent diagnostic technologies, especially in LMICs. Campylobacter jejuni and Campylobacter coli are most often the infectious agents and in high income settings together account for 95% of Campylobacter infections. Several other Campylobacter species have been detected in LMIC children at an increased prevalence relative to high income settings. After doing extensive whole genome sequencing of isolates of C. jejuni and C. coli in Peru, we observed heterogeneity in the binding sites for the main species-specific PCR assay (cadF) and designed an alternative rpsKD-based qPCR assay to detect both C. jejuni and C. coli. The rpsKD-based qPCR assay identified 23% more C.jejuni/ C.coli samples than the cadF assay among 47 Campylobacter genus positive cadF negative samples verified to have C. jejuni and or C. coli with shotgun metagenomics. This assay can be expected to be useful in diagnostic studies of enteric infectious diseases and be useful in revising the attribution estimates of Campylobacter in LMICs.
Under-five mortality before and after implementation of the Liberia National Community Health Assistant (NCHA) program: A study protocol
Authors: Jockers Dominik , Ngafuan Richard , Baernighausen Till , Kessley Albert , White Emily E. , Kenny Avi , Kraemer John , Geedeh John , Rozelle Jeffrey , Holmes Leah , Obaje Hawa , Wheh Sylvester , Pedersen Jon , Siedner Mark J. , Mendin Savior , Subah Marion , Hirschhorn Lisa R.
Published: March 2024

Between 2018 and 2022 the Liberian Government implemented the National Community Health Assistant (NCHA) program to improve provision of maternal and child health care to underserved rural areas of the country. Whereas the contributions of this and similar community health worker (CHW) based healthcare programs have been associated with improved process measures, the impact of a governmental CHW program at scale on child mortality has not been fully established. We will conduct a cluster sampled, community-based survey with landmark event calendars to retrospectively assess child births and deaths among all children born to women in the Grand Bassa District of Liberia. We will use a mixed effects Cox proportional hazards model, taking advantage of the staggered program implementation in Grand Bassa districts over a period of 4 years to compare rates of under-5 child mortality between the pre- and post-NCHA program implementation periods. This study will be the first to estimate the impact of the Liberian NCHA program on under-5 mortality.
White blood cells and type 2 diabetes: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Bi Yaru , Gao Yuan , Xie Yao , Zhou Meng , Liu Zhiyuan , Tian Suyan , Sun Chenglin
Published: March 2024

Background

Observational studies have demonstrated an association between white blood cells (WBC) subtypes and type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk. However, it is unknown whether this relationship is causal. We used Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the causal effect of WBC subtypes on T2D and glycemic traits.

Methods

The summary data for neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte, eosinophil, and basophil counts were extracted from a recent genome-wide association study (n = 173,480). The DIAGRAM and MAGIC consortia offered summary data pertaining to T2D and glycemic characteristics, including fasting glucose (FG) (n = 133,010), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (n = 46,368), and homeostatic model assessment-estimated insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (n = 37,037). A series of MR analyses (univariable MR, multivariable MR, and reverse MR) were used to investigate the causal association of different WBC subtypes with T2D and glycemic traits.

Results

Using the inverse-variance weighted method, we found one standard deviation increases in genetically determined neutrophil [odd ratio (OR): 1.086, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.877–1.345], lymphocyte [0.878 (0.766–1.006)], monocyte [1.010 (0.906–1.127)], eosinophil [0.995 (0.867–1.142)], and basophil [0.960 (0.763–1.207)] were not causally associated with T2D risk. These findings were consistent with the results of three pleiotropy robust methods (MR-Egger, weighted median, and mode-based estimator) and multivariable MR analyses. Reverse MR analysis provided no evidence for the reverse causation of T2D on WBC subtypes. The null causal effects of WBC subtypes on FG, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR were also identified.

Conclusions

WBCs play no causal role in the development of insulin resistance and T2D. The observed association between these factors may be explained by residual confounding.
Proteomic changes in the hippocampus of large mammals after total-body low dose radiation
Authors: Iacono Diego , Hatch Kathleen , Murphy Erin K. , Post Jeremy , Cole Robert N. , Perl Daniel P. , Day Regina M.
Published: March 2024

There is a growing interest in low dose radiation (LDR) to counteract neurodegeneration. However, LDR effects on normal brain have not been completely explored yet. Recent analyses showed that LDR exposure to normal brain tissue causes expression level changes of different proteins including neurodegeneration-associated proteins. We assessed the proteomic changes occurring in radiated vs. sham normal swine brains. Due to its involvement in various neurodegenerative processes, including those associated with cognitive changes after high dose radiation exposure, we focused on the hippocampus first. We observed significant proteomic changes in the hippocampus of radiated vs. sham swine after LDR (1.79Gy). Mass spectrometry results showed 190 up-regulated and 120 down-regulated proteins after LDR. Western blotting analyses confirmed increased levels of TPM1, TPM4, PCP4 and NPY (all proteins decreased in various neurodegenerative processes, with NPY and PCP4 known to be neuroprotective) in radiated vs. sham swine. These data support the use of LDR as a potential beneficial tool to interfere with neurodegenerative processes and perhaps other brain-related disorders, including behavioral disorders.
Hepatitis B vaccine uptake and associated factors among adults of Gulu city in Northern Uganda: A community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Aber Janet Okello , Bongomin Felix , Opio Stephen Lawoko , Ochola Emmanuel
Published: March 2024

Background

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is a global public health problem against which vaccination is recommended for all high-risk adults. HBV is highly endemic in Northern Uganda, however, there is a paucity of literature regarding HBV vaccine uptake and associated factors within the community in the region. In this study, we aimed to determine the level of HBV vaccine uptake and associated factors among adults in Gulu city, Uganda.

Methods

We conducted a community-based, cross-sectional study in Gulu city among eligible adults between March and May 2022. Data on HBV vaccination status and sociodemographic characteristics were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Full uptake of HBV vaccine was defined as receipt of all 3 recommended doses, and partial uptake for 1 or 2 doses. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed using STATA 16.0 to determine factors independently associated with HBV vaccine uptake. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

In total, 360 participants were enrolled, of whom 212 (58.9%) were female, 183 (50.8%) were aged 30 years or younger, and 143 (39.7%) had attained tertiary education. Overall, 96 (26.7%) participants had full uptake of HBV vaccine and 73 (20.3%) had partial uptake. Factors that were statistically significantly associated with full uptake of HBV vaccine were good knowledge regarding HBV transmission (aOR = 1.9, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 1.03–3.46, p = 0.040) and receiving health education on HBV vaccination (aOR = 4.4, 95% CI = 2.3–8.4, p<0.001).

Conclusions

There is a low uptake of HBV vaccine in Gulu city, Uganda. The Uganda Ministry of Health should correct misconceptions, create awareness of the severity of HBV infection through health education regarding HBV infection within the community in Gulu City; and set mechanisms to follow-up clients due for next HBV vaccination.
Regional differences and dynamic evolution of high-quality development in service industry: A case study of the Chengdu-Chongqing economic circle
Authors: Wu Zhixia , Zheng Xiazhong , Chen Yijun , Huang Shan , Duan Chenfei , Hu Wenli
Published: March 2024

The high-quality development of service industry has become an important engine for promoting sustainable economic development. This paper first constructed the evaluation index system of high-quality development of service industry, based on panel data from 2005 to 2020. Second, Kernel density, Markov chain and Dagum Gini coefficient were used to represent the regional differences and dynamic evolution of service industry, and the Koo method was used to explore the characteristics of spatial agglomeration. Finally, social network analysis was used to identify core indicators. The study found that: (1) From 2005 to 2020, the overall level of service industry first decreases and then increases, with Chengdu and Chongqing leading other cities. (2) The development of service industry in the CCEC has large spatial differences, mainly due to inter-regional differences. (3) The level of spatial agglomeration is less variable, with high agglomeration mainly in Chengdu. (4) Indicators such as the level of human capital are the core factors of its high-quality development. This study is of great theoretical and practical significance for the optimization and upgrading of service industry in the CCEC and the synergetic development of the region.
Effect of cryopreservation on CD4+ T cell subsets in foreskin tissue
Authors: Almomani Omar , Nnamutete James , Shao Zhongtian , Biribawa Victoria Menya , Ssemunywa HenryRoger , Namuniina Annemarie , Okech Brenda , Ulanova Sofya , Zuanazzi David , Liu Cindy M. , Tobian Aaron A. R. , Galiwango Ronald M. , Kaul Rupert , Prodger Jessica L.
Published: March 2024

Voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) reduces HIV acquisition by at least 60%, but the determinants of HIV susceptibility in foreskin tissues are incompletely understood. Flow cytometry is a powerful tool that helps us understand tissue immune defenses in mucosal tissue like the inner foreskin, but foreskin flow cytometry has only been validated using fresh tissue samples. This restricts immune analyses to timepoints immediately after surgical acquisition and hinders research in this area. We compared fresh analysis with whole tissue cryopreservation and later thawing and digestion to analyze CD4+ T cell populations relevant to HIV susceptibility (CCR5, CD25, CD127, CCR4, CXCR3, CCR6, CCR10, HLA-DR, and CD38). Eight foreskin samples from HIV-negative males aged >18 years were collected after VMMC. For each sample, half the foreskin was immediately cryopreserved for later digestion and flow cytometry analysis, while the remaining tissues were analyzed fresh. We demonstrate no significant impact of cryopreservation on CD4+ T cell expression of CD25, CCR4, CCR6, HLA-DR, CCR10, or CD127. Although expression levels of CCR5, CD38, and CXCR3 were increased after cryopreservation, the relative ranking of participants was retained. In conclusion, cryopreserved foreskin tissues may be suitable for subsequent digestion and flow cytometry phenotyping of HIV-susceptible T cell populations.
Modeling of free vibrations and resonant frequencies of simply-supported submerged horizontal plate
Authors: Slawinska-Budzich Justyna , Sulisz Wojciech , Przewlocki Jaroslaw
Published: March 2024

A theoretical approach was applied to study the vibration of simple-supported submerged horizontal plate. The derived analytical solution was used to determine natural frequencies for a horizontal plate vibrating in fluid. The investigations were conducted for a very wide range of material density and elasticity modulus covering all materials used in engineering practice. Analysis shows that plate vibration frequency decreases with increasing plate width and draft, and decreases with decreasing plate thickness. Moreover, the results show that a substantial effect on vibration of submerged plate has mass of water above plate. The results also show that plate vibration frequency decreases with increasing plate material density and decreases with decreasing elasticity modulus. The dominant factors affecting the vibration of the submerged plate are the plate width, the plate thickness, and elasticity modulus. For moderate and low values of elasticity modulus, vibration frequency is becoming lower than frequency of water waves. This is very important because wave frequencies overlap with the natural plate vibration frequencies, which may lead to resonance and failure of a structure. The problem is that the overlap of plate vibration frequencies and wave frequencies occurs for very wide range of wave and plate parameters. Laboratory experiments confirm theoretical results.
An enterprise composite blockchain construction method for business environment
Authors: Li Su , Wang Junlu , Song Baoyan
Published: March 2024

In order to foster a modern economic system and facilitate high-quality economic development, it is crucial to establish a conducive business environment. Undoubtedly, the evaluation of the business environment for enterprises constitutes a prominent area of research. Nevertheless, ensuring the authenticity and security of the raw data sources provided by participating enterprises poses a challenge, thereby compromising the accuracy of the evaluation. To tackle this issue, an enterprise composite blockchain construction method for business environment is proposed in this paper, which stores the raw data of enterprises by the means of hybrid on-chain and off-chain. Initially, the enhanced hash function SHA256 is introduced to encrypt the raw data of enterprises. The encrypted data is subsequently stored in an off-chain Level DB database, which is based on non-volatile memory. This approach effectively alleviates the burden on communication and storage. Secondly, a composite storage strategy on-chain is adopted: the key values from the Level DB are stored in the DAG-based Conflux public blockchain, while the enterprise state data is stored in the consortium blockchain, so as to provide trusted evidence of business environment evaluation data. Finally, it is demonstrated through a large number of experimental comparisons that the enterprise composite blockchain construction method proposed in this paper exhibits better read and write performance, lower storage efficiency and storage overhead, and outperforms both the before-improved Level DB database and existing blockchain storage models.
Preventing zoonotic and zooanthroponotic disease transmission at wild great ape sites: Recommendations from qualitative research at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Authors: Homsy King Maya , Nahabwe Haven , Ssebide Benard , Kwong Laura H. , Gilardi Kirsten
Published: March 2024

Employees at wild great ape sites are at high risk of transmitting infectious diseases to endangered great apes. Because of the significant amount of time employees spend near great apes, they are a priority population for the prevention and treatment of zoonotic and zooanthroponotic spillover and need adequate preventive and curative healthcare. Qualitative, semi-structured interviews with 46 staff (rangers and porters) at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda (BINP) and key informants from five other wild great ape sites around the world were performed. The objectives of the study were to 1) evaluate health-seeking behavior and health resources used by staff in contact with great apes at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park; 2) evaluate existing occupational health programs for employees working with great apes in other parts of the world; and 3) make recommendations for improvement of occupational health at BINP. Results show that BINP employees do not frequently access preventive healthcare measures, nor do they have easy access to diagnostic testing for infectious diseases of spillover concern. Recommendations include assigning a dedicated healthcare provider for great ape site staff, providing free annual physical exams, and stocking rapid malaria tests and deworming medication in first aid kits at each site.
Deep EEG source localization via EMD-based fMRI high spatial frequency
Authors: Moradi Narges , Goodyear Bradley G. , Sotero Roberto C.
Published: March 2024

Brain imaging with a high-spatiotemporal resolution is crucial for accurate brain-function mapping. Electroencephalography (EEG) and functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) are two popular neuroimaging modalities with complementary features that record brain function with high temporal and spatial resolution, respectively. One popular non-invasive way to obtain data with both high spatial and temporal resolutions is to combine the fMRI activation map and EEG data to improve the spatial resolution of the EEG source localization. However, using the whole fMRI map may cause spurious results for the EEG source localization, especially for deep brain regions. Considering the head’s conductivity, deep regions’ sources with low activity are unlikely to be detected by the EEG electrodes at the scalp. In this study, we use fMRI’s high spatial-frequency component to identify the local high-intensity activations that are most likely to be captured by the EEG. The 3D Empirical Mode Decomposition (3D-EMD), a data-driven method, is used to decompose the fMRI map into its spatial-frequency components. Different validation measurements for EEG source localization show improved performance for the EEG inverse-modeling informed by the fMRI’s high-frequency spatial component compared to the fMRI-informed EEG source-localization methods. The level of improvement varies depending on the voxels’ intensity and their distribution. Our experimental results also support this conclusion.
Behavioral sensitization and tolerance induced by repeated treatment with ketamine enantiomers in male Wistar rats
Authors: Elersič Kristian , Banjac Anamarija , Živin Marko , Zorović Maja
Published: March 2024

Ketamine has gained significant attention as a fast-acting antidepressant. However, ketamine is also associated with undesirable side effects. In our preclinical study, we explored the behavioral effects of ketamine enantiomers at subanesthetic doses. During repeated intermittent treatment, we examined locomotor stimulation and sensitization, ataxia, and expression of natural behaviors (grooming and rearing). Male Wistar rats were subcutaneously treated repeatedly with either 5 mg/kg of R-ketamine or S-ketamine, 15 mg/kg of R-ketamine, S-ketamine or racemic ketamine, 30 mg/kg of racemic ketamine or saline every third day for three weeks (seven treatments overall). After the first treatment, only 15 mg/kg of S-ketamine induced locomotor stimulation, and both 15 mg/kg of S-ketamine and 30 mg/kg of racemic ketamine induced ataxia. Upon repeated administration, doses of 15 mg/kg of R-ketamine, S-ketamine, and racemic ketamine, as well as 30 mg/kg of racemic ketamine, stimulated locomotion. 15 mg/kg of R-ketamine, S-ketamine, and racemic ketamine additionally resulted in locomotor sensitization. The last administration of 15 mg/kg of S-ketamine, 15 mg/kg of racemic ketamine, and 30 mg/kg of racemic ketamine resulted in ataxia. In the case of 15 mg/kg of S-ketamine, ataxic effects were significantly weaker in comparison to the effects from the first administration, indicating tolerance. Natural behaviors were attenuated after 5 and 15 mg/kg of S-ketamine and 15 and 30 mg/kg of racemic ketamine. Neither of the R-ketamine doses produced such an effect. We conclude that S-ketamine has a stronger behavioral effect than R-ketamine.
Candida albicans translocation through the intestinal epithelial barrier is promoted by fungal zinc acquisition and limited by NFκB-mediated barrier protection
Authors: Sprague Jakob L. , Schille Tim B. , Allert Stefanie , Trümper Verena , Lier Adrian , Großmann Peter , Priest Emily L. , Tsavou Antzela , Panagiotou Gianni , Naglik Julian R. , Wilson Duncan , Schäuble Sascha , Kasper Lydia , Hube Bernhard
Published: March 2024

The opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans thrives on human mucosal surfaces as a harmless commensal, but frequently causes infections under certain predisposing conditions. Translocation across the intestinal barrier into the bloodstream by intestine-colonizing C. albicans cells serves as the main source of disseminated candidiasis. However, the host and microbial mechanisms behind this process remain unclear. In this study we identified fungal and host factors specifically involved in infection of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) using dual-RNA sequencing. Our data suggest that host-cell damage mediated by the peptide toxin candidalysin-encoding gene ECE1 facilitates fungal zinc acquisition. This in turn is crucial for the full virulence potential of C. albicans during infection. IECs in turn exhibit a filamentation- and damage-specific response to C. albicans infection, including NFκB, MAPK, and TNF signaling. NFκB activation by IECs limits candidalysin-mediated host-cell damage and mediates maintenance of the intestinal barrier and cell-cell junctions to further restrict fungal translocation. This is the first study to show that candidalysin-mediated damage is necessary for C. albicans nutrient acquisition during infection and to explain how IECs counteract damage and limit fungal translocation via NFκB-mediated maintenance of the intestinal barrier.
Democracy, audiences and challenges for independent journalism in Colombia, Peru and Venezuela: A systemic proposal
Authors: Marino-Jiménez Mauro , Rojas-Noa Fany , Hernández-Sánchez Kelly , Ramírez-Durand Inés Liliana
Published: March 2024

Democracy is a complex political model. It is constituted through criteria such as the existence of solid institutions, the development of transparent electoral processes, dissemination of political culture, free citizen expression, among others. For this reason, the existence of a wide spectrum of countries with full, deficient, hybrid or authoritarian democratic qualities is plausible. Such is the case of Latin America, a region in which several countries have fallen in the last two groups. For this reason, this article will offer an overview of the situation in three Latin American countries (Colombia, Peru and Venezuela), considering the role of independent journalism, the situation they are going through and their strategies in deficit democracy, hybrid regime and dictatorial situation. For this purpose, system thinking will be used as a way of representing the role with audiences, the plurality of approaches and the credibility of the journalistic function.
Arquivo Sameiro: recuperação da memória familiar
Authors: Sameiro João Caetano
Published: March 2024

O Arquivo Sameiro é um arquivo de família privado com documentação dos séculos XVI até aos nossos dias. O seu actual proprietário procurou conservar e recuperar a memória da sua família através da reunião de documentação original manuscrita, dispersa por vários ramos da família Sameiro, e da reprodução de documentação de origens diversas, que se encontravam na mão de privados ou em arquivos públicos. Esta acção de construção de um arquivo é também um reflexo da acção dinamizadora do seu proprietário e do modo como procurou organizar arquivisticamente a documentação que fez convergir em si.
Fontes documentais sobre o(s) Cartório(s) Notarial(ais) no Arquivo Municipal de Vila Franca de Xira
Authors: Oliveira Lénia
Published: March 2024

A carência de estudos sobre o tabelionado no território de Vila Franca de Xira encorajou-nos a desenvolver uma simbólica investigação no âmbito da Pós-graduação em Arquivística Histórica (2021/2022). Porém, localizámos a seguinte documentação notarial: o fundo “Cartório Notarial de Vila Franca de Xira”, existente no Arquivo Nacional da Torre do Tombo (1661-05-27 – 1979-06-22), e vários documentos notariais à guarda do Arquivo Municipal de Vila Franca de Xira (1776-11-07 - 1929-01-16).  A descrição arquivística, que incidiu sobretudo sobre a documentação notarial encontrada no AMVFX, revelou-nos que para além do ofício de tabelião ter existido em Vila Franca de Xira, também teve lugar em Alhandra, Alverca e Povos, concelhos extintos durante o séc. XIX, no decorrer das Reformas Liberais, as quais deram origem a um novo desenho administrativo do país. A identificação dos tabeliães pertencentes a esses territórios e a perceção de como estes registavam e conservavam a documentação que produziam, permitiram-nos um olhar atento sobre essa realidade perdida no tempo: os tabeliães eram obrigados a respeitar a circunscrição geográfica a que estavam adstritos, e tinham uma rede clientelar diversificada, ficando evidente a correlação entre o local de residência dos outorgantes e o local das propriedades contratualizadas. Para além disso, a documentação à guarda do AMVFX é complementar à que existe no ANTT.
Para efeitos de recuperação da informação estes são fatores a ter em conta em futuras descrições arquivísticas, pois a probabilidade de um determinado ato notarial ser encontrado aumenta, quando associado à localidade onde o notário exerceu o seu ofício.
El banquete humano. A propósito de Hannibal Lecter y el canibalismo. El silencio de los corderos (1991) de Jonathan Demme
Authors: Abad-Vila Miguel
Published: March 2024

El dragón rojo (1981) de Thomas Harris es la carta de presentación del perverso psiquiatra Hannibal Lecter, un psicópata asesino que brilla singularmente en el firmamento de los homicidas más abyectos de la historia del cine. Esta colección se completó con la publicación de El silencio de los corderos (1988), Hannibal (1999) y Hannibal: El origen del mal (2006), hasta ahora su última secuela. Fuente de inspiración cinematográfica, la saga se inició con la galardonada El silencio de los corderos (1991) de Jonathan Demme, continuada por Hannibal (2001) de Ridley Scott, El dragón rojo (2002) de Brett Ratner y Hannibal: El origen del mal (2007) de Peter Webber, si bien además existe una primera adaptación de la novela El dragón rojo titulada Hunter/Cazador de hombres (1986) de Michael Mann, donde los agentes del FBI se enfrentan con el temible asesino en serie Dr. Hannibal Lecktor (Brian Cox). Asimismo, el escritor y productor estadounidense Bryan Fuller creó la serie televisiva Hannibal (2013-2015), 39 episodios en los que el actor danés Mads Mikkelsen encarna al perverso antropófago. Independiente de sus connotaciones antropológicas, morales y culturales, la mayor parte de las conductas de canibalismo están relacionadas con trastornos psicóticos, como por ejemplo la esquizofrenia paranoica, cuando estos enfermos asesinan y se comen parte de los cuerpos de sus víctimas dentro de sus cuadros delirantes patológicos.
Intercropping lettuce and radish as strategy for efficient water use: determination of water demand and crop coefficient
Authors: Menezes Cláudia Salim Lozano , Rezende Roberto , Wenneck Gustavo Soares , Saath Reni , Terassi Daniele de Souza , Freitas Paulo Sérgio Lourenço de , Gonçalves Antônio Carlos Andrade , Andrean André Felipe Barion Alves
Published: March 2024

Determining the need for water, as well as crop coefficients, is essential information for the management of irrigation and consequently efficiency in the use of water resources. The study aimed to determine the evapotranspiration and the culture coefficients of lettuce and radish in a monoculture system and consortium in a protected environment. The lettuce cultivar used was Vanda and for radish hybrid 19 was used. The reference evapotranspiration was estimated by the Penman-Monteith method using data from the automatic weather station and the evapotranspiration of the cultures was determined by the direct method using lysimeters of constant water table. The water demand for lettuce and radish in the intercropping system was 170 mm, being less than the lettuce monoculture which was 190 mm and higher than the radish monoculture which was 121 mm. The recommended average values of culture coefficient for conditions were 0.96, 1.85, and 1.50 for lettuce and 0.85, 1.28, and 1.10 for the radish in the initial, intermediate and final stages, respectively. The intercropped cultivation showed lower water consumption than the lettuce monoculture. The coefficient values of lettuce and radish in a monoculture system were higher than the standard values recommended by FAO, emphasizing the importance of conducting regional studies.
Agronomic performance and fruit sensory and quality analyses of pineapple cultivars
Authors: Freitas Angélica Padilha de , Krause Willian , Arantes Debora Sarana Ortolan , Silva Dayane Castro , Santos Eileen Azevedo , Campos Renê Arnoux da Silva
Published: March 2024

The objective of this study was to assess the agronomic performance and fruit sensory and quality characteristics in traditional and modern pineapple cultivars grown in Tangara da Serra, MT, Brazil. The experiment was conducted in a randomized block design, with five replications and 20 plants per plot. Planting was carried out in double rows with spacing of 1.2×0.4×0.4 m, in May 2018. The evaluated cultivars were BRS-Ajuba, BRS-Imperial, BRS-Vitoria, Gigante-de-Tarauaca, IAC-Fantastico, Jupi, Perola, and Smooth-Cayenne. Gigante-de-Tarauaca exhibited the highest fruit weight but presented low soluble solids content and soluble solids to titratable acidity ratio (SS/TA); thus, it is not recommended for fresh fruit market. Jupi exhibited fruit weights (>1500 g) suitable for the market and soluble solids above 12 °Brix, but SS/TA below 20. Considering the modern cultivars, BRS-Ajuba presented the highest fruit weight, but BRS-Imperial and IAC-Fantastico were the most attractive to consumers, as well as the traditional cultivar Perola. However, BRS-Imperial and IAC-Fantastico yield small fruits, which reduces their per-unit value in the market, as pineapples are typically valued based on their sizes.
Response of Jabuticaba [Plinia cauliflora (Mart) Kausel] seedlings to herbicides
Authors: Zimbro Edna , Bernardi Caliandra , Da Rosa Viviane , Alamino Douglas Alvarez , Stefeni Alberto Ricardo , Wagner Júnior Américo , Moraes PedroValério Dutra de
Published: March 2024

Jabuticaba (Plinia sp.) is one of the most important fruit species in the Brazilian flora; it is appreciated for fresh consumption or products produced from its fruits. The establishing of orchards requires the determination of management methods that favor the development and productivity of this species. The objective of this work was to evaluate the response of jabuticaba seedlings to application of herbicides and determine possible phytotoxicity. The experiment was conducted at the Federal Technological University of Paraná, in Dois Vizinhos, PR, Brazil. A randomized block experimental design with four replications was used, with 5 plants per experimental unit. The treatments consisted of applications of pre-emergence herbicides (Dual Gold® and Spider®) and post-emergence herbicides (2,4-D, Ally®, Enlist®, Primatop®, Fusilade®, Imazetapyr, Flex®, Plenum®, and Volcane®). The applied herbicide rates were equivalent to 50% of their commercial recommendation. A spray volume equivalent to 250 L ha-1 was applied, using water as diluent. The following parameters were evaluated 45 days after applications: stem diameter at 1 cm above ground (cm); plant height (cm); numbers of necrotic, chlorotic, shriveled, and healthy leaves; number and length of shoots (cm); survival rate (%); and chlorophyll contents (a, b, and total). The application of the herbicides Ally®, Enlist®, and Flex® resulted in less harmful effects on jabuticaba seedlings. The lowest survival rates were found in plants in the treatments with the herbicides Dual Gold®, Volcane®, and Primatop®.
La purificación del deseo en el Purgatorio dantesco
Authors: Messa Gaya Patricia
Published: March 2024

¿Está suficientemente presente el deseo en la Divina Comedia para tomarlo en consideración? ¿Es realmente la purificación del deseo el núcleo del Purgatorio dantesco? Con estas dos preguntas queremos iluminar el tema del deseo en el poema dantesco. La disertación se enmarcará en el sentido de desiderium aportado por santo Tomás en su Tratado de las pasiones (S. Th., I-II, q.22-48) y en las cuestiones relativas a las potencias del alma (S. Th., I, q.78-80). Con el marco tomista como referencia, estudiaremos la purificación del deseo, especialmente del racional, y la entenderemos como el proceso de ordenación y desvelamiento del deseo último del hombre: contemplar a Dios cara a cara. Para ello, destacaremos la ayuda de la virtud y de la educación de la mirada como dos factores fundamentales para culminar el ascenso por la montaña de la purificación y permitir al alma alcanzar la cumbre de sus deseos en el Paraíso. Como conclusión, señalaremos que la purificación del deseo ilumina nuestra naturaleza y permite lograr la unión real entre Dios y su criatura.
Impact of E Resources Consortium on Research Productivity of Centrally Funded Technical Institutes in India
Authors: Chavan Shankar B , Keshava Prof.
Published: March 2024

The main objective of the study is to find the impact of the e-resources consortium on the research output of the publications of Centrally Funded Technical Institutes in India (CFTIs) using the scientometric analysis. A total of fifty-seven institutes were taken for analysis for the period of three decades from 1991 to 2020. A total of 401171 publication records were extracted from the Scopus bibliographic database using the affiliations search. The research publications of CFTIs increased 14 times in 2015-2020 compared to 1991-1995, and the trend continuously increases. In a decade-wise comparison of the publications per institute in 1991-2000 versus 2011-2020, it grew 4.72 times. The correlation of research publications and research output analysis using the compound annual growth rate of CFTIs in 1991-2001 was 4.38 %, whereas 11.82 % in 2002-2020. The preferred publication sources are largely journals 71.61 %, and conference proceedings 22.08 %. Positive correlation was found between the accessibility of scholarly journals and the research output of CFTIs after the INDEST-AICTE Consortium. The increase in publications of IISc, IITs and NITs are 2.63 times, 8.09 times, and 55.57 times respectively.
La Atención Primaria en Salud, un camino inconcluso en Colombia: Lecciones aprendidas de la Primera Ola de la Pandemia por COVID-19
Authors: Martínez Herrera Eliana , Tuesca Molina Rafael de Jesùs , Hernández Rincón Erwin Hernando , Guerrero Espinel Juan Eduardo
Published: March 2024

Introducción: En 2020, Colombia adoptó diferentes medidas para mitigar el impacto de la pandemia por Covid-19, principalmente medidas de aislamiento social y fortalecimiento en la prestación de servicios hospitalarios. Sin embargo, el país no contempló acciones para abordar los otros problemas en salud, como tampoco consideró la relevancia de la Atención Primaria en Salud (APS) para responder a la pandemia. Por lo cual se realizó una investigación para indagar por la oferta y posicionamiento de la APS entre los tomadores de decisiones para atender la emergencia de Covid-19 durante la primera ola de la pandemia y los aprendizajes para las siguientes. Metodología: De abril a junio de 2020 se realizó un estudio descriptivo exploratorio mixto en 2 fases: (1) Encuesta a tomadores de decisiones, prestadores y académicos, y (2) Grupo focal a informantes clave. Resultados: La encuesta fue respondida por 227 participantes, 41% académicos, 34.8 % prestadores y 17.6 % funcionarios de direcciones locales de salud; el 28.2 % consideró que la APS estuvo adaptada en los territorios para diferentes programas de salud por ciclo vital y entre el 80 al 98 % que la APS debía instaurarse en el territorio para vigilancia de casos, atención ambulatoria, manejo de pacientes crónicos, atención de otros programas y educación sanitaria. En el grupo focal participaron 12 informantes claves, quienes concluyeron que desde la autoridad sanitaria se debía promover la integración de la APS de forma urgente en los territorios, y garantizar una gobernanza eficaz para lograrlo; igualmente, recomendaron intensificar la alfabetización en salud y el empoderamiento de la población para la adopción de medidas individuales y colectivas. Conclusiones: Se concluye que la APS era una oportunidad para responder a la primera ola de la pandemia, como también para subsanar los problemas actuales y anticiparse a problemas futuros. Por lo cual, la APS debe convertirse en una política de Estado.
Matrix Metalloproteinase-2 and -9, Lactate, and Malate Dehydrogenase and Lipid Peroxides in Sera of Patients with Colorectal Carcinoma
Authors: Gopcevic Kristina , Rovcanin B. , Kekic D. , Krivokapic Z. , Dragutinovic V.
Published: March 2024

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are involved in tumour invasion and metastasis of colorectal carcinoma. Oxidative stress represents one of the possible mechanisms that activate inactive MMPs. Oxidative stress increases lipid peroxidation, which causes impaired membrane permeability and leakage of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and malate dehydrogenase (MDH) into circulation. Our aim was to assess the activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 and its relation to the parameters of oxidative stress and membrane damage markers in patients with different TNM (tumour, lymph nodes, metastasis) stages of colorectal carcinoma. MMP-2 and -9 activities were evaluated by gelatin zymography. Oxidative stress was examined by quantifying serum malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration. LDH and MDH activities were determined spectrophotometrically. The activities of MMP-2 and -9 were significantly higher in the sera of colorectal carcinoma patients when compared to healthy subjects. There was a stage-dependent increase in relative MMP-2 activity compared to the overall serum gelatinolytic activity. The activity of MMP-9 was the highest in TNM III. The MDA concentration and the LDH and MDH activities were significantly higher in colorectal carcinoma patients than in controls, while LDH and MDH activities were stage dependent. There was significant correlation between serum MMP-2 and LDH activity in TNM II, III and IV patients. A stage-dependent increase of LDH and MDH activity was observed. We highlight here that MMP-9 could be a 100% sensitive marker of TNM stage III of colorectal carcinogenesis. In this study it was shown for the first time that gelatinolytic activity in colorectal carcinoma is associated with redox imbalance.
Comparison of Subtypes of Hepatocellular Adenoma to Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Non-Neoplastic Liver Tissue in Terms of PTEN Expression
Authors: Szparecki Grzegorz , Ilczuk T. , Gabzdyl N. , Górnicka B.
Published: March 2024

PTEN is a tumour suppressor gene whose loss of function has been found to be present in a variety of neoplasms, both benign and malignant. In hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), loss of PTEN is associated with poorly differentiated cancer, advanced clinical stage and tendency to recur. The extent and meaning of PTEN loss in hepatocellular adenoma (HA), one of the precursor lesions for HCC, has not yet been analysed. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible loss of PTEN expression in HA in the wider context of hepatocarcinogenesis. Immunohistochemical analysis of PTEN expression was performed in non-neoplastic liver tissue, HAs and HCCs. It has been found that the loss of PTEN was markedly present in poorly differentiated HCC, whereas well to moderately differentiated HCC showed similar levels of PTEN expression to nonneoplastic liver. HAs presented as a heterogeneous group, with loss of PTEN observed in the inflammatory and HNF1A-mutated subtype and relatively intact PTEN expression in HA with nuclear β-catenin overexpression. This suggests that the loss of PTEN might occur both in HA and HCC, constituting different outcomes of the same molecular lesion in the various contexts of malignant or benign neoplasms.
The Level of Satisfaction of the Residents on the Public Healthcare Services in the Isolated Mountain Barangays of Cebu City: A Research as Basis for Crafting an Action Plan
Authors: Tulaytay Donna Mae E. , Fonte Allain D. , Basallo Ma. Leslie B.
Published: March 2024

This research study aims to investigate the level of satisfaction among residents of isolated mountain barangays in Cebu City regarding healthcare services. The identified barangays for this study are Bonbon, Sudlon 1, Sudlon 2, and Sinsin. By distributing survey questionnaires to randomly selected participants from each barangay, the study sought to assess residents' satisfaction levels with respect to healthcare services provided within their respective communities. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques. The questionnaires were designed to measure various aspects of healthcare services, including accessibility, quality of care, healthcare personnel, facilities, and overall satisfaction. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics to examine the quantitative data. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns in participants' responses. The preliminary findings of the study indicated that residents' satisfaction levels with healthcare services in these isolated mountain barangays varied across different aspects. While some residents expressed overall satisfaction, others identified specific areas that required improvement. Accessibility, availability of healthcare personnel, quality of care, and the adequacy of healthcare facilities emerged as critical factors influencing residents' satisfaction. The research findings have important implications for policymakers, healthcare providers, and local government units in improving healthcare services in isolated mountain barangays. The study provides valuable insights into residents' perceptions, allowing for targeted interventions and the development of strategies to address the identified areas of concern.
Are Effects of COVID-19 Understated? Gender-Based Implications on Income, Coping Strategies and Time Allocation in Ethiopia
Authors: Kebede Sindu W. , Maruta Admasu A , Geda Nigatu R
Published: March 2024

This study investigates impacts of COVID-19 on household income, coping strategies, and time allocation challenges using gender-differentiated approach. Data from two rounds of phone surveys conducted in Ethiopia were used. The findings reveal significant impacts of COVID-19 and its containment measures on the income of both male-headed (50 percent) and female-headed households (44 percent). In response to income decline, majority of male (70 percent) and female (64 percent) respondents resorted to saving as a coping strategy. This outcome underscores the prevalent gender disparity in financial inclusion within Ethiopia. A comparative analysis of time allocation for reproductive and domestic activities before and during the pandemic indicates that women allocated more hours than men to these tasks. It is, therefore, crucial to acknowledge and assign value to women's contributions, given their predominant role in reproductive and domestic activities. These activities are essential components of daily life within households and contribute significantly to the overall economy.
Perturbation compactness and uniqueness for a class of conformally compact Einstein manifolds
Authors: Chang Sun-Yung Alice , Ge Yuxin , Jin Xiaoshang , Qing Jie
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we establish compactness results for some classes of conformally compact Einstein metrics defined on manifolds of dimension d ≥ 4. In the special case when the manifold is the Euclidean ball with the unit sphere as the conformal infinity, the existence of such class of metrics has been established in the earlier work of C. R. Graham and J. Lee (“Einstein metrics with prescribed conformal infinity on the ball,” Adv. Math., vol. 87, no. 2, pp. 186–225, 1991). As an application of our compactness result, we derive the uniqueness of the Graham–Lee metrics. As a second application, we also derive some gap theorem, or equivalently, some results of non-existence CCE fill-ins.
Controversy of Copyright Application and the China Plan of Metaverse Products
Authors: Tian Xiaochu , Zhang Nan
Published: March 2024

The controversy over copyright theory in the metaverse scenario mainly arises from the issue of copyrightability of metaverse products. Metaverse products have initially reached the standard of originality and formally conform to the dichotomy of thought and expression, however, the incompatibility of object types has led to controversy over its copyright theory. In addition, the three types of disputes and difficulties based on the “behavior” element: original acquisition and derivative acquisition, original products and derivative products, and public domain and private domain, are not just copyright disputes in the metaverse scene, but also a difficult problem that the copyright system cannot reconcile. In this regard, this article draws on overseas experience, introduces the theory of copyright expansion, and combines the needs of China’s judicial practice and China’s national conditions, trying to solve the copyright legal issues in the metaverse scenario one by one through the “source of communication” theory, behavior restriction theory and interest game theory, and propose China’s response to the problems caused by the generalization of digital technology from the three dimensions of originality standard identification, object classification, and rights restriction rules.