bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A qualitative exploration of adoptive family practices in contemporary India: the voices of adoptees of closed adoptions
Authors: Puhan Sushri Sangita
Published: March 2024

Drawing on an empirical narrative research study, this article illuminates the lived experiences of Indian adoptees of closed adoptions, that is, those who had no contact with their birth parents in the run-up to or following adoption. The findings of five in-depth accounts comprising young adult and adult adoptees present a deep and nuanced understanding of what remains a relatively unexplored area of adoptive family lives in contemporary India practised in an environment where the intricacies of culture and notions of biological ties are privileged over social ties. This article illustrates how the way adoption stories are lived, experienced and shaped contributes to adoptees’ understandings of how to navigate the challenges to confirm their membership in their adoptive families in a situation where these relationships fall under constant suspicion, denial and disapproval. While it is accepted that this non-representative sample cannot reflect wider perspectives of adoptive lives, it nevertheless highlights the inherent complexities and provides a useful springboard for further research.
Wilde's Mime Acts: Performing Minor Mimesis
Authors: Lawtoo Nidesh
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Mimesis is not a minor literary and philosophical concept in western thought. Still, an immanent, marginalized, and in this sense minor conception of performative mimesis (from mimos , actor or performance) is currently informing the transdisciplinary field of mimetic studies. Supplementing Deleuze and Guattari's account of Kafka's "minor literature," this article focuses on Oscar Wilde's dramatizations of performative mimesis revealing that not only language is performative; human lives and bodies are also driven by "an imitative instinct." From The Picture of Dorian Gray to The Importance of Being Earnest , Wilde's dramatic impersonations of homo mimeticus allow him to do not only things with words (speech acts) but also to do things with affects and bodies (mime acts). In the process, he provides new steps to further the mimetic turn or re -turn to a minor, performative, and embodied theory of homo mimeticus .
Optimized Stokes imaging for highly resolved optical speckle fields, Part II: optimal acquisition and estimation strategies
Authors: Staes Jonathan , Fade Julien
Published: March 2024

In this second paper of a three-paper series focusing on Stokes polarimetry of optical speckle fields resolved at the individual speckle grain scale, a theoretical study based on numerical simulations is presented in order to establish the optimum sensing, estimation, and processing strategies that guarantee the best precision, accuracy, and robustness for Stokes polarimetry in this specific context. In particular, it is demonstrated that the so-called state of polarization analysis by full projection on the Poincaré space (SOPAFP) approach can be optimized in order to ensure best estimation performance. These numerical simulations also make it possible to establish that the SOPAFP approach provides better results in terms of robustness to residual experimental imperfections of the setup when compared to classical Stokes polarimetry approaches.
Tunable non-specular effects on hyperbolic crystal coated with a single layer of graphene
Authors: Iqbal Maria , Waseer Waleed Iqbal , Naqvi Qaisar Abbas
Published: March 2024

In this work, we have theoretically investigated the tunable non-specular effects, specifically Imbert-Fedorov and Goos-Hänchen shifts, on a graphene-based uniaxial hyperbolic crystal geometry. The hyperbolic crystal is made of hexagonal boron nitride and the source of excitation is a circularly polarized light beam. The influence of chemical potential and absolute temperature of the graphene on these effects is examined. Notably, the research reveals that the shifts exhibit complex and significantly varying behavior within and outside the infrared reststrahlen frequency-bands of hyperbolic crystal.
Research on spacecraft in orbit perception based on artificial neural networks and digital twin technology using grating arrays
Authors: Zhang Yunshan , Fan Li , Mu Congying , Wang Dayong
Published: March 2024

In order to improve the safety of spacecraft, the research on artificial neural network and digital twin technology based on, to our best knowledge, a novel fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensor array is proposed for intelligent sensing monitoring of spacecraft on-orbit collisions. Femtosecond FBG arrays were fabricated on the novel oxide-doped fiber by point-by-point writing technique. The femtosecond FBG is analyzed using the time-dependent perturbation theory of quantum mechanics. The FBG array can achieve high-temperature measurement of 1100 °C and large strain measurement of 15000 µε. The sensing arrays were deployed on the surface of the spacecraft. Constructed the multi-layer perceptron neural network structure and convolutional neural network structure. 1200 samples were trained. Conducted model accuracy testing. The accuracy rate is above 98%, and accuracy verification has been implemented. The digital twin model was designed based on various data such as strain and temperature of the spacecraft structure under impact monitored by FBG sensors. A precise mapping has been formed between the physical entities of spacecraft and digital twins. Empower spacecraft with functions such as self-monitoring, judgment, and response. To ensure the stable and safe operation of spacecraft.
Active feedback stabilization of super-efficient microcombs in photonic molecules
Authors: Rebolledo-Salgado Israel , Helgason Óskar B. , Durán Vicente , Girardi Marcello , Zelan Martin , Torres-Company Victor
Published: March 2024

Dissipative Kerr soliton (DKS) frequency combs, when generated within coupled cavities, exhibit exceptional performance concerning controlled initiation and power conversion efficiency. Nevertheless, to fully exploit these enhanced capabilities, it is necessary to maintain the frequency comb in a low-noise state over an extended duration. In this study, we demonstrate the control and stabilization of super-efficient microcombs in a photonic molecule. Our findings demonstrate that there is a direct relation between effective detuning and soliton power, allowing the latter to be used as a setpoint in a feedback control loop. Employing this method, we achieve the stabilization of a highly efficient microcomb indefinitely, paving the way for its practical deployment in optical communications and dual-comb spectroscopy applications.
Deep-learning empowered unique and rapid optimization of meta-absorbers for solar thermophotovoltaics
Authors: Noureen Sadia , Ijaz Sumbel , Javed Isma , Cabrera Humberto , Zennaro Marco , Zubair Muhammad , Mehmood Muhammad Qasim , Massoud Yehia
Published: March 2024

Optical nano-structure designs usually employ computationally expensive and time-intensive electromagnetic (EM) simulations that call for resorting to modern-day data-oriented methods, making design robust and quicker. A unique dataset and hybrid image processing model combining a CNN with gated recurrent units is presented to foresee the EM absorption response of photonic nano-structures. An inverse model is also discussed to predict the optimum geometry and dimensions of meta-absorbers. Mean-squared error of the order of 10−3 and an accuracy of 99% is achieved for trained models, and the average prediction time for the DL models is around 98% faster than that of simulations. This idea strengthens the proposition that efficient DL-based solutions can substitute the traditional methods for designing nano-optical structures.
Passively harmonic mode-locked erbium-doped fiber laser with a gold nanofilm saturable absorber
Authors: Lv Changjian , Meng Fanchao , Zhang Tianqi , Wang Junjie , Yan Qi , Jia Zhixu , Qin Weiping , Qin Guanshi
Published: March 2024

We demonstrate a 1.5 GHz harmonic mode-locked erbium-doped fiber
laser by incorporating gold nanofilm as a saturable absorber (SA). The
high-quality gold nanofilm SA fabricated by the physical vapor
deposition method possesses a high modulation depth of 12.9%
and a low saturation intensity of 1.69 MW/cm2 at
1.56 µm, facilitating the generation of harmonic
mode-locking. The fundamental mode-locked operation was obtained at
1564.7 nm, with a pulse duration of 586 fs and a repetition
rate of 34.235 MHz. At the pump power of 610 mW,
44th-order harmonic mode-locking with a repetition rate of
1.506 GHz was achieved, which is the highest yet reported in
mode-locked fiber lasers using gold nanomaterials as SAs. Moreover,
the gold nanofilm-based harmonic mode-locked fiber laser shows
relatively high signal-to-noise ratios, high output power, and good
stability. These results highlight the advantage of the gold
nanofilm-based SA in realizing high repetition rate laser sources.
Compact snapshot hyperspectral camera for ophthalmology
Authors: Guenot Diego , Alexander Jan , Selvander Madeleine
Published: March 2024

Hyperspectral imaging is an emerging technique that allows measurement of spectral absorption at each point of a scene, thus offering the capability to identify and characterize important biomarkers for clinical practice and therapeutic research, as well as enhancing image identification of important structures. So far, few hyperspectral cameras have been used for retinal scanning because of the need to acquire the image in a fraction of a second. Here, and to the best of our knowledge, we present a novel concept of a snapshot hyperspectral camera suited for retinal imaging. We demonstrate the technique by presenting the optical density spectrum of a healthy patient’s retina in the 450–700 nm range, together with the spectral response of several retinal features.
Computational prediction of protein interactions in single cells by proximity sequencing
Authors: Xia Junjie , Phan Hoang Van , Vistain Luke , Chen Mengjie , Khan Aly A. , Tay Savaş
Published: March 2024

Proximity sequencing (Prox-seq) simultaneously measures gene expression, protein expression and protein complexes on single cells. Using information from dual-antibody binding events, Prox-seq infers surface protein dimers at the single-cell level. Prox-seq provides multi-dimensional phenotyping of single cells in high throughput, and was recently used to track the formation of receptor complexes during cell signaling and discovered a novel interaction between CD9 and CD8 in naïve T cells. The distribution of protein abundance can affect identification of protein complexes in a complicated manner in dual-binding assays like Prox-seq. These effects are difficult to explore with experiments, yet important for accurate quantification of protein complexes. Here, we introduce a physical model of Prox-seq and computationally evaluate several different methods for reducing background noise when quantifying protein complexes. Furthermore, we developed an improved method for analysis of Prox-seq data, which resulted in more accurate and robust quantification of protein complexes. Finally, our Prox-seq model offers a simple way to investigate the behavior of Prox-seq data under various biological conditions and guide users toward selecting the best analysis method for their data.
Mathematical models of Plasmodium vivax transmission: A scoping review
Authors: Anwar Md Nurul , Smith Lauren , Devine Angela , Mehra Somya , Walker Camelia R. , Ivory Elizabeth , Conway Eamon , Mueller Ivo , McCaw James M. , Flegg Jennifer A. , Hickson Roslyn I.
Published: March 2024

Plasmodium vivax is one of the most geographically widespread malaria parasites in the world, primarily found across South-East Asia, Latin America, and parts of Africa. One of the significant characteristics of the P. vivax parasite is its ability to remain dormant in the human liver as hypnozoites and subsequently reactivate after the initial infection (i.e. relapse infections). Mathematical modelling approaches have been widely applied to understand P. vivax dynamics and predict the impact of intervention outcomes. Models that capture P. vivax dynamics differ from those that capture P. falciparum dynamics, as they must account for relapses caused by the activation of hypnozoites. In this article, we provide a scoping review of mathematical models that capture P. vivax transmission dynamics published between January 1988 and May 2023. The primary objective of this work is to provide a comprehensive summary of the mathematical models and techniques used to model P. vivax dynamics. In doing so, we aim to assist researchers working on mathematical epidemiology, disease transmission, and other aspects of P. vivax malaria by highlighting best practices in currently published models and highlighting where further model development is required. We categorise P. vivax models according to whether a deterministic or agent-based approach was used. We provide an overview of the different strategies used to incorporate the parasite’s biology, use of multiple scales (within-host and population-level), superinfection, immunity, and treatment interventions. In most of the published literature, the rationale for different modelling approaches was driven by the research question at hand. Some models focus on the parasites’ complicated biology, while others incorporate simplified assumptions to avoid model complexity. Overall, the existing literature on mathematical models for P. vivax encompasses various aspects of the parasite’s dynamics. We recommend that future research should focus on refining how key aspects of P. vivax dynamics are modelled, including spatial heterogeneity in exposure risk and heterogeneity in susceptibility to infection, the accumulation of hypnozoite variation, the interaction between P. falciparum and P. vivax, acquisition of immunity, and recovery under superinfection.
Combining machine learning with structure-based protein design to predict and engineer post-translational modifications of proteins
Authors: Ertelt Moritz , Mulligan Vikram Khipple , Maguire Jack B. , Lyskov Sergey , Moretti Rocco , Schiffner Torben , Meiler Jens , Schoeder Clara T.
Published: March 2024

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins play a vital role in their function and stability. These modifications influence protein folding, signaling, protein-protein interactions, enzyme activity, binding affinity, aggregation, degradation, and much more. To date, over 400 types of PTMs have been described, representing chemical diversity well beyond the genetically encoded amino acids. Such modifications pose a challenge to the successful design of proteins, but also represent a major opportunity to diversify the protein engineering toolbox. To this end, we first trained artificial neural networks (ANNs) to predict eighteen of the most abundant PTMs, including protein glycosylation, phosphorylation, methylation, and deamidation. In a second step, these models were implemented inside the computational protein modeling suite Rosetta, which allows flexible combination with existing protocols to model the modified sites and understand their impact on protein stability as well as function. Lastly, we developed a new design protocol that either maximizes or minimizes the predicted probability of a particular site being modified. We find that this combination of ANN prediction and structure-based design can enable the modification of existing, as well as the introduction of novel, PTMs. The potential applications of our work include, but are not limited to, glycan masking of epitopes, strengthening protein-protein interactions through phosphorylation, as well as protecting proteins from deamidation liabilities. These applications are especially important for the design of new protein therapeutics where PTMs can drastically change the therapeutic properties of a protein. Our work adds novel tools to Rosetta’s protein engineering toolbox that allow for the rational design of PTMs.
Functional labeling of individualized postsynaptic neurons using optogenetics and trans-Tango in Drosophila (FLIPSOT)
Authors: Castaneda Allison N. , Huda Ainul , Whitaker Iona B. M. , Reilly Julianne E. , Shelby Grace S. , Bai Hua , Ni Lina
Published: March 2024

A population of neurons interconnected by synapses constitutes a neural circuit, which performs specific functions upon activation. It is essential to identify both anatomical and functional entities of neural circuits to comprehend the components and processes necessary for healthy brain function and the changes that characterize brain disorders. To date, few methods are available to study these two aspects of a neural circuit simultaneously. In this study, we developed FLIPSOT, or functional labeling of individualized postsynaptic neurons using optogenetics and trans-Tango. FLIPSOT uses (1) trans-Tango to access postsynaptic neurons genetically, (2) optogenetic approaches to activate (FLIPSOTa) or inhibit (FLIPSOTi) postsynaptic neurons in a random and sparse manner, and (3) fluorescence markers tagged with optogenetic genes to visualize these neurons. Therefore, FLIPSOT allows using a presynaptic driver to identify the behavioral function of individual postsynaptic neurons. It is readily applied to identify functions of individual postsynaptic neurons and has the potential to be adapted for use in mammalian circuits.
Absence of Anti-Babesia microti antibody in commercial intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
Authors: Kostka Julia , Maharjan Anu S. , Kumar Sanjai , Hackenyos Douglas , Krause Peter J. , Dieckhaus Kevin
Published: March 2024

Background

Babesiosis is a worldwide emerging protozoan infection that is associated with a spectrum of disease severity from asymptomatic infection to severe organ damage and death. While effective treatment strategies are available, some immunocompromised patients experience severe acute and prolonged/relapsing illness due in part to an impaired host antibody response. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has been used as an adjunctive therapy in some immunocompromised babesiosis patients, but its therapeutic effect is uncertain. We evaluated the presence of Babesia microti antibodies in commercial samples of IVIG.

Methods/principle findings

The presence of B. microti antibodies in commercial samples of IVIG were tested using an immunofluorescence assay. A subset of samples was then tested for B. microti antibodies using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay.

Out of 57 commercial IVIG samples tested using IFA, and 52 samples tested using ELISA, none were positive for B. microti antibodies.

Conclusions

Commercially available IVIG may not be of therapeutic benefit for babesiosis patients. Additional sampling of IVIG for B. microti antibody and a clinical trial of babesiosis patients given IVIG compared with controls would provide further insight into the use of IVIG for the treatment of babesiosis.
Vitamin D deficiency and the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphism rs2228570 (FokI) are associated with an increased susceptibility to hypertension among the Bangladeshi population
Authors: Nabil Imrul Kayes , Mahmud Zimam , Tamanna Sonia , Rahman Md Mostafijur , Rashid Gowhar , Hossain Md. Sarowar , Asad Humaira Binte , Kamal Mohammad Amjad , Howlader Md. Zakir Hossain
Published: March 2024

Vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene is implicated in hypertension vulnerability due to its role in regulating the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and blood pressure. In this case-control study, a carefully selected cohort of 111 hypertensive individuals and 100 healthy controls underwent serum analysis using HPLC to measure 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels. Polymorphic variations in the VDR gene were detected and characterized using the PCR-RFLP method. At first, lower 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels were observed in hypertensive individuals compared to controls (p<0.001). The genotype frequency of the VDR gene TaqI showed no significant difference between cases and controls (p>0.05). Similarly, no significant difference was found in the VDR gene BsmI genotype frequency between hypertensive patients and controls (p>0.05). However, a statistically significant distinction was observed in the VDR gene FokI genotype frequency between cases and controls (p<0.01). The odds ratios for FokI genotypes (CC, CT, TT, and CT+TT) were 1.0, 0.590, 1.566, and 0.963, respectively. Furthermore, serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels were significantly higher in control subjects compared to hypertensive patients across all genotypes of VDR (p<0.001). Hypertensive patients, excluding those with the FokI VDR gene CC genotype, exhibited significantly higher systolic blood pressure levels compared to the control group (p<0.05). Similarly, hypertensive subjects displayed elevated diastolic blood pressure levels compared to the control group (p<0.001). Overall, the results suggest the presence of a potential inverse correlation between serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels and hypertension. The association analysis conducted indicated that there is no significant association between TaqI and bsmI genotypic variants and the risk of developing hypertension. However, it was observed that VDR gene polymorphisms do have a clear association with hypertension susceptibility, as evidenced by the significantly higher occurrence of FokI genotypic variants in hypertensive patients. Our study therefore introduces the possibility of utilizing 25-hydroxy vitamin D deficiency and VDR gene polymorphisms as a biomarker for hypertension.
Characterization of intestinal O-glycome in reactive oxygen species deficiency
Authors: Saldova Radka , Thomsson Kristina A. , Wilkinson Hayden , Chatterjee Maitrayee , Singh Ashish K. , Karlsson Niclas G. , Knaus Ulla G.
Published: March 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation resulting from an inappropriate inflammatory response to intestinal microbes in a genetically susceptible host. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by NADPH oxidases (NOX) provide antimicrobial defense, redox signaling and gut barrier maintenance. NADPH oxidase mutations have been identified in IBD patients, and mucus layer disruption, a critical aspect in IBD pathogenesis, was connected to NOX inactivation. To gain insight into ROS-dependent modification of epithelial glycosylation the colonic and ileal mucin O-glycome of mice with genetic NOX inactivation (Cyba mutant) was analyzed. O-glycans were released from purified murine mucins and analyzed by hydrophilic interaction ultra-performance liquid chromatography in combination with exoglycosidase digestion and mass spectrometry. We identified five novel glycans in ileum and found minor changes in O-glycans in the colon and ileum of Cyba mutant mice. Changes included an increase in glycans with terminal HexNAc and in core 2 glycans with Fuc-Gal- on C3 branch, and a decrease in core 3 glycans in the colon, while the ileum showed increased sialylation and a decrease in sulfated glycans. Our data suggest that NADPH oxidase activity alters the intestinal mucin O-glycans that may contribute to intestinal dysbiosis and chronic inflammation.
Phenolic compounds of Theobroma cacao L. show potential against dengue RdRp protease enzyme inhibition by In-silico docking, DFT study, MD simulation and MMGBSA calculation
Authors: Huq A. K. M. Moyeenul , Roney Miah , Dubey Amit , Nasir Muhammad Hassan , Tufail Aisha , Aluwi Mohd Fadhlizil Fasihi Mohd , Ishak Wan Maznah Wan , Islam Md. Rabiul , Tajuddin Saiful Nizam
Published: March 2024

Background

Currently, there is no antiviral medication for dengue, a potentially fatal tropical infectious illness spread by two mosquito species,Aedes aegyptiandAedes albopictus. The RdRp protease of dengue virus is a potential therapeutic target. This study focused on the in silico drug discovery of RdRp protease inhibitors.

Methods

To assess the potential inhibitory activity of 29 phenolic acids from Theobroma cacao L. against DENV3-NS5 RdRp, a range of computational methods were employed. These included docking, drug-likeness analysis, ADMET prediction, density functional theory (DFT) calculations, and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The aim of these studies was to confirm the stability of the ligand-protein complex and the binding pose identified during the docking experiment.

Results

Twenty-one compounds were found to have possible inhibitory activities against DENV according to the docking data, and they had a binding affinity of ≥-37.417 kcal/mol for DENV3- enzyme as compared to the reference compound panduratin A. Additionally, the drug-likeness investigation produced four hit compounds that were subjected to ADMET screening to obtain the lead compound, catechin. Based on ELUMO, EHOMO, and band energy gap, the DFT calculations showed strong electronegetivity, favouravle global softness and chemical reactivity with considerable intra-molecular charge transfer between electron-donor to electron-acceptor groups for catechin. The MD simulation result also demonstrated favourable RMSD, RMSF, SASA and H-bonds in at the binding pocket of DENV3-NS5 RdRp for catechin as compared to panduratin A.

Conclusion

According to the present findings, catechin showed high binding affinity and sufficient drug-like properties with the appropriate ADMET profiles. Moreover, DFT and MD studies further supported the drug-like action of catechin as a potential therapeutic candidate. Therefore, furtherin vitroandin vivoresearch on cocoa and its phytochemical catechin should be taken into consideration to develop as a potential DENV inhibitor.
Where have all the monsters gone?
Authors: Macfarlane Karen
Published: March 2024

Monsters have been rehabilitated in popular culture, moved from the realm of the truly monstrous to the world of neoliberal ‘sameness’. The zombies of In the Flesh and the vampires in True Blood, as only two examples of this trend, have lost their monstrous edge and have come to represent different ways of being human. While some discussions of this reimagined monster describe the weaving of monsters into mainstream culture as a way of acting out discourses of inclusion, I argue here that contemporary narratives that focus on monsters as metaphors for difference and inclusion are, ultimately, not providing a vision of a utopian world of equality. Instead, these representations are enacting a dystopian vision of a neoliberal social order that demonstrates a fear of true or radical difference.
Heroic mice and villainous rats: An analysis of heroism in children’s films
Authors: Schiffner Hannah Sophie
Published: March 2024

Mice are beloved children’s film characters. By embodying the underdog, they not only entertain but also inspire us. This article discusses the evolution of heroic mice in children’s films, thus analysing how mice have been represented as heroes and how heroic representation has changed in recent years. This article will address children’s films with mice that are sidekicks, warriors or use their wit to outsmart others against all odds. An analysis would not be complete without also addressing the representation of rats – as heroes, villains or a mix of both. The article’s findings will present three phases: first, mice as sidekicks only, but nevertheless courageous in their actions; second, mice as heroic role models, inherently good and fearless, and their counterparts, rats, as villains; and third, mice as warriors and knights, with children’s films beginning to question the clear-cut characterization of mice as heroes and rats as villains, hereby negotiating a new understanding of heroism. The representation of heroic mice thus reflects changing morals and expectations and showcases how traditional concepts of heroism are challenged in children’s films.
Host Detection and Classification using Support Vector Regression in Cloud Environment
Authors: Srivastava Vidya , Kumar Rakesh
Published: March 2024

Having the potential to provide global users with pay-per-use utility-oriented IT services across the Internet, cloud computing has become increasingly popular. These services are provided via the establishment of data centers (DCs) across the world. These data centers are growing increasingly with the growing demand for cloud, leading to massive energy consumption with energy requirement soaring by 63% and inefficient resource utilization. This paper contributes by utilizing a dynamic time series-based prediction support vector regression (SVR) model. This prediction model defines upper and lower limits, based on which the host is classified into four categories: overload, under pressure, normal, and underload. A series of migration strategies have been considered in the case of load imbalance. The proposed mechanism improves the load distribution and minimizes energy consumption and execution time by balancing the host in the data center. Also, it optimizes the execution cost and resource utilization. In the proposed framework, the energy consumption is 0.641kWh, and the execution time is 165.39sec. Experimental results show that the proposed approach outperforms other existing approaches.
Análisis de las importaciones oleícolas hispanas en la Carthago romana a partir del estudio de las marcas epigráficas sobre ánforas del tipo Dressel 20
Authors: Colom Mendoza Enric
Published: March 2024

El hallazgo de ánforas béticas del tipo Dressel 20 no es muy común en las excavaciones arqueológicas realizadas en Carthago romana. De un total de más de 500 individuos anfóricos romanos catalogados en el Musée National de Carthage, sólo 13 fragmentos de asa pertenecen al tipo Dressel 20, de los cuales sólo cuatro pueden ser atribuidos a un contexto arqueológico claro, que son los niveles de destrucción provocados sobre la necrópolis púnica de Bordj-Djedid, situada en la ladera norte de la ciudad.

Pese a esta acuciante falta de datos para esta importante ciudad africana, el análisis pormenorizado de estas evidencias, inéditas hasta día de hoy, nos permitirá añadir un eslabón en el estado del conocimiento de las relaciones comerciales con el norte de África, así como dilucidar el papel de la ciudad de Carthago en relación con la importación de productos oleícolas. Igualmente, a partir de los hallazgos documentados, podremos lanzar una serie de hipótesis sobre su posible rol en la redistribución de las ánforas Dressel 20 hasta los puertos situados en los confines del Mediterráneo oriental.
Formation and Evolution of the Tourism Milieu: A Holistic Approach to Spatial Experience
Authors: Bal Damla
Published: March 2024

This research investigates the formation and evolution of the tourism milieu through a holistic philosophical lens that integrates Kant’s focus on knowledge foundations and Merleau-Ponty’s insights into perception and embodiment. It emphasizes the significance of reasoning and critical thinking in comprehending destination complexities. The research aims to dissect the interactions among tourists, locals, and their environment, shedding light on the transformative influence of tourism. In this way it offers valuable insights into the intricate dynamics of destination evolution. The research contextualizes its inquiry within Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, a locale rich in cultural vibrancy and urban dynamism. Through a synthesis of theoretical discourse and pragmatic analyses, this study not only enhances our understanding of tourism milieu dynamics but also advocates for the adoption of sustainable development practices within the tourism industry.
Limited Sustained Remission After Nucleos(t)ide Analog Withdrawal: Results From a Large, Global, Multiethnic Cohort of Patients With Chronic Hepatitis B (RETRACT-B Study)
Authors: Hirode Grishma , Hansen Bettina E. , Chen Chien-Hung , Su Tung-Hung , Wong Grace L.H. , Seto Wai-Kay , d'Almeida Arno Furquim , Papatheodoridi Margarita , Brakenhoff Sylvia M. , Lens Sabela , Choi Hannah S.J. , Chien Rong-Nan , Feld Jordan J. , Forns Xavier , Sonneveld Milan J. , Papatheodoridis George V. , Vanwolleghem Thomas , Yuen Man-Fung , Chan Henry L.Y. , Kao Jia-Horng , Hsu Yao-Chun , Cornberg Markus , Jeng Wen-Juei , Janssen Harry L.A. ,   on behalf of the RETRACT-B study group
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Complete viral suppression with nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs) has led to a profound reduction in hepatocellular carcinoma and mortality among patients with chronic hepatitis B. Finite therapy yields higher rates of functional cure; however, initial hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) elevations are almost certain after treatment interruption. We aimed to analyze off-treatment outcomes beyond 12 months after NA cessation.

METHODS:

Patients with well-suppressed chronic hepatitis B who were hepatitis B e antigen-negative at NA cessation and remained off treatment without hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss at 12 months were included (n = 945). HBV DNA and ALT fluctuations were allowed within the first 12 months. We used Kaplan-Meier methods to analyze outcomes beyond 12 months. Sustained remission was defined as HBV DNA <2,000 IU/mL and ALT <2× upper limit of normal (ULN) and an ALT flare as ALT ≥5× ULN.

RESULTS:

Cumulative probability of sustained remission was 29.7%, virological relapse was 65.2% with a mean peak HBV DNA of 5.0 ± 1.5 log10 IU/mL, an ALT flare was 15.6% with a median peak ALT × ULN of 8.3 (5.7–11.3), HBsAg loss was 9.9% and retreatment was 34.9% at 48 months after NA cessation. A single occurrence of virological relapse or an ALT flare within the first 12 months off-treatment were associated with significantly lower rates of sustained remission beyond 12 months.

DISCUSSION:

Despite allowing for HBV DNA and ALT fluctuations within the first 12 months off-treatment, most patients without HBsAg loss did not maintain a sustained response thereafter. The best candidates for NA withdrawal are patients with low HBsAg levels at NA cessation, and those without profound or recurrent virological and biochemical relapses in the first off-treatment year.
NON-INVASIVE PPG-BASED ESTIMATION OF BLOOD GLUCOSE LEVEL
Authors: Vargová Enikö , Němcová Andrea , Nováková Zuzana
Published: March 2024

This paper focuses on non-invasive blood glucose determination using photoplethysmographic (PPG) signals, which is crucial for managing diabetes. Diabetes stands as one of the world’s major chronic diseases. Untreated diabetes frequently leads to fatalities. Current self-monitoring techniques for measuring diabetes require invasive procedures such as blood or bodily fluid sampling, which may be very uncomfortable. Hence, there is an opportunity for non-invasive blood glucose monitoring through smart devices capable of measuring PPG signals. The primary goal of this research was to propose methods for glycemic classification into two groups (low and high glycemia) and to predict specific glycemia values using machine learning techniques. Two datasets were created by measuring PPG signals from 16 individuals using two different smart devices – a smart wristband and a smartphone. Simultaneously, the reference blood glucose levels were invasively measured using a glucometer. The PPG signals were preprocessed, and 27 different features were extracted. With the use of feature selection, only 10 relevant features were chosen. Numerous machine learning models were developed. Random Forest (RF) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) with the radial basis function (RBF) kernel performed best in classifying PPG signals into two groups. These models achieved an accuracy of 76% (SVM) and 75% (RF) on the smart wristband test dataset. The functionality of the proposed models was then verified on the smartphone test dataset, where both models achieved similar accuracy: 74% (SVM) and 75% (RF). For predicting specific glycemia values, RF performed best. Mean Absolute Error (MAE) was 1.25 mmol/l on the smart wristband test dataset and 1.37 mmol/l on the smartphone test dataset.
Total vs Partial Workplace Tobacco Use Bans in Texas Behavioral Health Centers: Employees’ Perceptions Related to Best Practices Implementation
Authors: Kakarla Sriya , Shabaneh Noor , Britton Maggie , Rogova Anastasia , Carter Brian , Chen Tzuan , Leal Isabel , Kyburz Bryce , Williams Teresa , Reitzel Lorraine
Published: March 2024

Objective: Tobacco-free workplace policies (TFWPs) at behavioral health treatment centers can curb clients’ tobacco use and secondhand smoke/vape exposure. However, there is little extant observational research about how total versus partial workplace tobacco use bans are associated with employees’ perceptions of best tobacco-related practices in behavioral health centers. Little is understood about the relationship between total or partial TFWPs and other factors that influence evidence-based client care including employees’ beliefs and their tobacco treatment practices. In this study, we examined these associations within Local Mental Health Authorities (LMHAs) providing behavioral healthcare throughout Texas. Methods: Employees from 30 of 39 LMHAs (> 75% of Texas’ statewide service area) responded to a 2021 survey on their TFWP characteristics. We explored associations between the TFWP (total vs partial) and variables of interest using independent proportions tests (p < .10). Results: LMHAs with total TFWPs reported clearer signage, more consistent enforcement, and greater client, contractor, and visitor awareness (ps = .013 to .078). They were also more likely to offer tobacco screening training, promote the Quitline, and believe in the benefits of concurrent treatment of behavioral health needs and tobacco use (ps = .024 to .079). Conclusions: LMHAs with partial TFWPs had weaknesses in communication, enforcement, awareness, and greater barriers to tobacco use care. There are opportunities for collaboration between LMHAs to share policies and care-facilitation practices to reduce the research-to-practice gap and resultant tobacco use inequities statewide.
Evaluasi Kesesuaian Lahan Perairan untuk Budidaya Rumput Laut (Kappaphycus alvarezii) di Perairan Pulau Panjang, Banten
Authors: Pratiwy Essy , Handoyo Gentur , Suryoputro Agus Anugroho Dwi
Published: March 2024

Indonesia memiliki total luas wilayah laut sekitar 5,9 juta km2 dan memiliki jumlah pulau ±17.504 gugusan pulau besar dan kecil. Salah satu hasil kelautan di Indonesia yang cukup melimpah adalah rumput laut. Perairan Pulau Panjang, yang berlokasi di Kabupaten Serang, Banten terdapat lokasi pembudidayaan rumput laut, namun saat ini mengalami penurunan produksi. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui tingkat kesesuaian lahan perairan untuk budidaya rumput laut berdasarkan parameter kecepatan arus, kedalaman, kecerahan perairan, MPT, suhu, salinitas, pH, konsentrasi nitrat dan fosfat. Parameter-parameter perairan tersebut diolah dengan metode skoring dan pembobotan untuk menghasilkan tingkat kesesesuaian lahan rumput laut yang terbagi menjadi 3 (tiga) kategori: Sesuai (skor 34-45), Kurang Sesuai (skor 23-32), dan Tidak Sesuai (skor <23). Berdasarkan analisa kesesuaian lahan untuk budidaya rumput laut di perairan Pulau Panjang, Banten menunjukkan bahwa kesesuaian lahan rumput laut memiliki skor 23-30 termasuk ke dalam kategori keadaan perairan yang kurang sesuai untuk budidaya rumput laut. Kualitas perairan Pulau Panjang, Banten kurang mendukung akibat adanya reklamasi dan masukan limbah dari kegiatan industri yang ada disekitar Pulau Panjang, Banten.
Numerical Modeling of Excavated Slope Stability on Bridge Abutments on the Bogor – Ciawi – Sukabumi Toll Road
Authors: Kurnia Prana , Hamdhan Indra Noer , Tohari Adrin
Published: March 2024

The Cikereteg Bridge is one of the infrastructures on the Bogor-Ciawi-Sukabumi Toll Road. Based on drilling data, it is recognized that the groundwater level is high and that the slope under the bridge has soil with a low standard penetration tests value (N-SPT) of less than 10. Hence, the stability of the slope is called into doubt. In order to strengthen slope stability under the bridge, this research will investigate slope stability while taking seismic loads into account and offer options for efficient slope reinforcement. By using the PLAXIS 2D software, the finite element method was used to analyze slope stability. The outcomes of the modelling suggest that the slope may not be stable, since it does not fulfill the design slope criteria, which are 1.8 for static conditions and 1.5 for earthquake situations. Respectively, the safety factor value is 1.396 for static condition and 1.068 when given an earthquake load. The design reinforcement model's results highlight that the subdrain reinforcement in combination with bored piles and ground anchors can fulfill the criteria for the slope of the bridge plan.
Construction Workers' Mental Health Factor Domains
Authors: Hansen Seng
Published: March 2024

Construction industry is a labor-intensive sector that absorbs a large number of workers. Therefore, the industry must be able to pay attention to human resources which are a valuable asset. One of them is related to the mental health of construction workers. Even though the construction industry is known for its stressful environment, not much research has been conducted regarding the fulfillment of mental health aspects of construction workers, especially in Indonesia. In fact, various mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety can have an impact on the performance of construction workers and industry. This research aims to identify various factors related to mental health that influence construction workers through an integrative literature study. The results of the analysis succeeded in finding 68 factors related to mental health in the construction industry which were grouped into four domains, namely types, causes, impacts and solutions to overcome mental health disorders in the construction industry. Identification of these factors and domains is important as a means of understanding mental health aspects so that they can become a reference for stakeholders, especially the government and construction project organizations, in an effort to increase awareness on the importance of mental health in the construction work environment. In this way, the government and construction project organizations can be proactively involved in realizing the achievement of sustainable development goals, namely good health and well-being.
Strava - projev kulturní identity řecké skupiny v Praze
Authors: Čermáková Klára
Published: March 2024

The Greek community in Prague was established by members of political emigration who arrived in Czechoslovakia between 1948 and 1949. In those years Czechoslovakia was accepting children as well as adult people evacuated from the places afflicted by a civil war. In the first years there was only a handful of Greeks, mainly officials who were in charge of contact between the Greeks living outside Prague and the Czechoslovak authorities. They were gradually joined by others who were coming to Prague through a natural process of migration from smaller towns and villages. At present the Greek community in Prague is composed of four generations of Greek immigrants and their descendants: those who arrived as adults in Czechoslovakia; children who spent their childhood in children's homes and their equals in age; their children; and now also their grandchildren. In connection with political changes in the Czech Republic, the Greek community in Prague has been strengthened by Greek students and businessmen since the early 1990s. According to the latest census, taken in 1991, there were 268 people of Greek origin in Prague. Pecularities of their diet and food habits are among cultural signs with which present-day Prague Greks are building up their identity. The writer observes the structure of the food, the way of its preparation as well as dietary habits of the families belonging to the Greek community in Prague. She compares the habits in Greek and Czech-Greek families. She asks the questions of the transmission, modification and innovation of tradition. The question of the importance of Greek food in social and family, ceremonial, events as a selfidentifying event is a vital aspect. Although Prague Greeks' favourite food has been joined by dishes from the Czech as well as other world cuisines, Greek meals have maintained their indispensable place in the diet of festive, ceremonial as well as every-day occasions. Food of the Greek cuisine is perceived as a sign of Greek identity and origin also in ethnically mixed families. The fact whether the housewife is a Greek or Czech woman only has an impact on the frequency of the preparation of the food. However, they remain part of the tradition of families with Greek origin in either cases.
Rituály přijetí dítěte do lokální komunity
Authors: Jeřábková Petra
Published: March 2024

As part of a research of transition rituals in the Cypriot mountain village of Peristerona I watched the act of baptism and its formal course, content and social impact. This paper focuses on symbolical acts of acceptation of a child both into the community of the Orthodox church and the broader village community. Peristerona is an agricultural village with about 200 permanent residents. Although the village residents have a very close relationship with the nearby town, they have also very close ties with their family, insist on neighbourly relationships, and preserve a number of traditional ceremonies and rituals. Tradition supports a ritual which consists of the acceptation of a child into the closest family, the local community as well as the Orthodox church. A child is accepted into the closest family immediately after its birth and this act is an independent ritual. On the other hand, acceptation into the church and the village community is postponed to a later time, but six months after the birth of the child at the latest. Both rituals make part of a single, comprehensive ritual, which includes the selection of a godfather, a religious ritual in church with an active role played by the priest and the godfather, the ritual of acceptation by the village community connected with a feast and, last but not least, the protection and observation of a child in the transient period which lasts another three days after the baptism is made. Baptism is the most important act in the life of every individual. Without baptism one cannot undergo further vital events in life such as the church wedding or legally valid burial. Baptism is also a vital step for the inclusion of an individual into the local village community. The child is not regarded as a fully-fledged member of a village community unless it is baptised. However, baptism is not only viewed as the acceptation of a child by the Orthodox church and the village community. It also amounts to the creation of a secondary family background the child obtains in godfather's family. The whole process of the acceptation of a child into a local community is gradual and lasts several days. The child is finally included into it only after three days, after the transient period ends. After three days the child is bathed and finally included into the village community without any further acceptation rituals.
Židovská problematika v očích českých novinářů
Authors: Novotná Hedvika
Published: March 2024

Česká republika prochází v současné době stále ještě obdobím velkých přeměn. Není to v tomto století poprvé. Také vztah k Židům a židovství se v průběhu 20. století proměňoval. Zatímco začátek století byl poznamenán následky nedávné vlny pogromú, období první republiky je označováno za jedno z nejdemokratičtějších a nejtolerantnějších vůbec. Samozřejmě i tato doba měla své zápory, ale v porovnání s léty následujícími šlo o téměř marginální excesy.
Pocta Univerzity Karlovy Prof. Philipu V. Tobiasovi
Authors: Chmelová Martina
Published: March 2024

Dne 16. 9.1999 byl udělen čestný doktorát Univerzity Karlovy profesoru Philipu Valentinu Tobiasovi.
Valeria Heuberger: Unter dem Doppeladler: Die Nationalitaten der Habsburger Monarchie 1848-1918.
Authors: Kristen st. Vladimír
Published: March 2024

A review of the book by Valeria Heuberger.
Jiří Hanuš: Pozvání ke studiu církevních dějin.
Authors: Nešpor Zdeněk R.
Published: March 2024

A review of the book by Jiří Hanuš.
Hana Posseltová-Ledererová: Máma a já (Terezínský deník).
Authors: Soukupová Blanka
Published: March 2024

A review of the book by Hana Posseltová-Ledererová.