bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient wideband tunable radio frequency–optical conversion via triply resonant photonic molecules
Authors: Singh Manuj , Zhang Xinchang , Zhang Bohan , Onural Deniz , Gevorgyan Hayk , Wang Ruocheng , Stojanović Vladimir M. , Popović Miloš A.
Published: June 2024

Electro-optic (EO) transduction of weak radio frequency (RF) and millimeter-wave signals, such as those received by an antenna, onto laser sidebands for processing in the optical domain requires efficient EO modulators. Microrings offer spatial density and efficiency advantages over Mach–Zehnder modulators (MZMs), but conventional single-ring modulators suffer a fundamental trade-off between resonantly enhanced conversion efficiency and the RF carrier frequency that it can accommodate. Dual-cavity “photonic molecule” modulators resolve this trade-off, allowing high efficiency independent of the RF carrier frequency by providing separate resonant supermodes to enhance the laser local oscillator (LO) and the narrowband RF-detuned sideband. However, the RF frequency is fixed at design time by geometry, with efficiency dropping quickly for RF carriers away from the design value. We propose a novel, to the best of our knowledge, triple-cavity configuration with an off-resonant middle ring acting as an effective tunable coupler between two active modulator cavities. This configuration provides wideband tunability of the target RF carrier while maintaining efficient sideband conversion. When the middle ring is passive (high Q), this configuration provides wide RF tunability with no efficiency penalty over the fixed dual-cavity case and could become an important building block for future RF/mm-wave photonic integrated circuits (PICs).
TGF-β ligand cross-subfamily interactions in the response of Caenorhabditis elegans to a bacterial pathogen
Authors: Ciccarelli Emma Jo , Wing Zachary , Bendelstein Moshe , Johal Ramandeep Kaur , Singh Gurjot , Monas Ayelet , Savage-Dunn Cathy
Published: June 2024

The Transforming Growth Factor beta (TGF-β) family consists of numerous secreted peptide growth factors that play significant roles in cell function, tissue patterning, and organismal homeostasis, including wound repair and immunity. Typically studied as homodimers, these ligands have the potential to diversify their functions through ligand interactions that may enhance, repress, or generate novel functions. In the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, there are only five TGF-β ligands, providing an opportunity to dissect ligand interactions in fewer combinations than in vertebrates. As in vertebrates, these ligands can be divided into bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and TGF-β/Activin subfamilies that predominantly signal through discrete signaling pathways. The BMP subfamily ligand DBL-1 has been well studied for its role in the innate immune response in C. elegans. Here we show that all five TGF-β ligands play a role in survival on bacterial pathogens. We also demonstrate that multiple TGF-β ligand pairs act nonredundantly as part of this response. We show that the two BMP-like ligands–DBL-1 and TIG-2–function independently of each other in the immune response, while TIG-2/BMP and the TGF-β/Activin-like ligand TIG-3 function together. Structural modeling supports the potential for TIG-2 and TIG-3 to form heterodimers. Additionally, we identify TIG-2 and TIG-3 as members of a rare subset of TGF-β ligands lacking the conserved cysteine responsible for disulfide linking mature dimers. Finally, we show that canonical DBL-1/BMP receptor and Smad signal transducers function in the response to bacterial pathogens, while components of the DAF-7 TGF-β/Activin signaling pathway do not play a major role in survival. These results demonstrate a novel potential for BMP and TGF-β/Activin subfamily ligands to interact and may provide a mechanism for distinguishing the developmental and homeostatic functions of these ligands from an acute response such as the innate immune response to bacterial pathogens.
The effect of conversation on altruism: A comparative study with different media and generations
Authors: Maalouly Elie , Yamazaki Ryuji , Nishio Shuichi , Nørskov Marco , Kamaga Kohei , Komai Shoji , Chiba Kiyoshi , Atsumi Keiichiro , Akao Ken-Ichi
Published: June 2024

Despite the overwhelming evidence of climate change and its effects on future generations, most individuals are still hesitant to make environmental changes that would especially benefit future generations. In this study, we investigate whether dialogue can influence people’s altruistic behavior toward future generations of humans, and how it may be affected by participant age and the appearance of the conversation partner. We used a human, an android robot called Telenoid, and a speaker as representatives of future generations. Participants were split among an old age group and a young age group and were randomly assigned to converse with one of the aforementioned representatives. We asked the participants to play a round of the Dictator Game with the representative they were assigned, followed by an interactive conversation and another round of the Dictator Game in order to gauge their level of altruism. The results show that, on average, participants gave more money after having an interactive conversation, and that older adults tend to give more money than young adults. There were no significant differences between the three representatives. The results show that empathy might have been the most important factor in the increase in altruistic behavior for all participants.
Traumatic experiences and place of occurrence: An analysis of sex differences among a sample of recently arrived immigrant adults from Latin America
Authors: Vargas Laura X. , Sammel Mary D. , Richmond Therese S. , Ulrich Connie M. , Giano Zachary D. , Berkowitz Lily , Epperson C. Neill
Published: June 2024

With increasing violence, political, and economic instability in Latin America, there is a record number of migrants crossing the U.S. southern border. Latin American migrants are often exposed to traumatic events before leaving their home country and during migration. While prior studies document that sex may play a role in types of traumatic exposure, few studies compare differences in traumatic exposure by sex and place of occurrence of recently arrived immigrants. Addressing this gap, we recruited 120 adults who had recently crossed the U.S.-Mexico border. Participants completed questionnaires to characterize trauma exposures in their home country and during their migration journey. Results found that men reported higher levels of exposure to combat situations, while women were more likely to experience sexual assault. Both combat exposure and sexual traumas occurred more often in home countries than during migration. More than half of the full sample reported being threatened with a firearm. These data confirm gender differences in type of trauma and that exposures in the country of origin may provide the impetus to migrate.
NGF effects promote the maturation of rat pancreatic beta cells by regulating GLUT2 levels and distribution, and glucokinase activity
Authors: Samario-Román Jazmín , Velasco Myrian , Larqué Carlos , Cárdenas-Vázquez René , Ortiz-Huidobro Rosa Isela , Hiriart Marcia
Published: June 2024

The nerve growth factor (NGF) participates in cell survival and glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) processes in rat adult beta cells. GSIS is a complex process in which metabolic events and ionic channel activity are finely coupled. GLUT2 and glucokinase (GK) play central roles in GSIS by regulating the rate of the glycolytic pathway. The biphasic release of insulin upon glucose stimulation characterizes mature adult beta cells. On the other hand, beta cells obtained from neonatal, suckling, and weaning rats are considered immature because they secrete low levels of insulin and do not increase insulin secretion in response to high glucose. The weaning of rats (at postnatal day 20 in laboratory conditions) involves a dietary transition from maternal milk to standard chow. It is characterized by increased basal plasma glucose levels and insulin levels, which we consider physiological insulin resistance. On the other hand, we have observed that incubating rat beta cells with NGF increases GSIS by increasing calcium currents in neonatal cells. In this work, we studied the effects of NGF on the regulation of cellular distribution and activity of GLUT2 and GK to explore its potential role in the maturation of GSIS in beta cells from P20 rats. Pancreatic islet cells from both adult and P20 rats were isolated and incubated with 5.6 mM or 15.6 mM glucose with and without NGF for 4 hours. Specific immunofluorescence assays were conducted following the incubation period to detect insulin and GLUT2. Additionally, we measured glucose uptake, glucokinase activity, and insulin secretion assays at 5.6 mM or 15.6 mM glucose concentrations.

We observed an age-dependent variation in the distribution of GLUT2 in pancreatic beta cells and found that glucose plays a regulatory role in GLUT2 distribution independently of age. Moreover, NGF increases GLUT2 abundance, glucose uptake, and GSIS in P20 beta cells and GK activity in adult beta cells.

Our results suggest that besides increasing calcium currents, NGF regulates metabolic components of the GSIS, thereby contributing to the maturation process of pancreatic beta cells.
Adsorption of magnetic manganese ferrites to simulated monomeric mercury in flue gases
Authors: Sun Lei , Zhang Xiajun , Wang Zhou , Liu Min
Published: June 2024

Magnetic MnFe2O4 nanoparticles were successfully prepared by the rapid combustion method at 500 °C for 2 h with 30 mL absolute ethanol, and were characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, VSM, and XPS techniques, their average particle size and the saturation magnetization were about 25.3 nm and 79.53 A·m2/kg, respectively. The magnetic MnFe2O4 nanoparticles were employed in a fixed bed experimental system to investigate the adsorption capacity of Hg0 from air. The MnFe2O4 nanoparticles exhibited the large adsorption performance on Hg0 with the adsorption capacity of 16.27 μg/g at the adsorption temperature of 50 °C with the space velocity of 4.8×104 h-1. The VSM and EDS results illustrated that the prepared MnFe2O4 nanoparticles were stable before and after adsorption and successfully adsorbed Hg0. The TG curves demonstrated that the mercury compound formed after adsorption was HgO, and both physical and chemical adsorption processes were observed. Magnetic MnFe2O4 nanoparticles revealed excellent adsorbance of Hg0 in air, which suggested that MnFe2O4 nanoparticles be promising for the removal of Hg0.
Novel artificial intelligence assisted Landsat-8 imagery analysis for mango orchard detection and area mapping
Authors: Tanveer Muhammad Usama , Munir Kashif , Raza Ali , Almutairi Mubarak S.
Published: June 2024

The mango fruit plays a crucial role in providing essential nutrients to the human body and Pakistani mangoes are highly coveted worldwide. The escalating demand for agricultural products necessitates enhanced methods for monitoring and managing agricultural resources. Traditional field surveys are labour-intensive and time-consuming whereas remote sensing offers a comprehensive and efficient alternative. The field of remote sensing has witnessed substantial growth over time with satellite technology proving instrumental in monitoring crops on a large scale throughout their growth stages. In this study, we utilize novel data collected from a mango farm employing Landsat-8 satellite imagery and machine learning to detect mango orchards. We collected a total of 2,150 mango tree samples from a farm over six months in the province of Punjab, Pakistan. Then, we analyzed each sample using seven multispectral bands. The Landsat-8 framework provides high-resolution land surface imagery for detecting mango orchards. This research relies on independent data, offering an advantage for training more advanced machine learning models and yielding reliable findings with high accuracy. Our proposed optimized CART approach outperformed existing methods, achieving a remarkable 99% accuracy score while the k-Fold validation score also reached 99%. This research paves the way for advancements in agricultural remote sensing, offering potential benefits for crop management yield estimation and the broader field of precision agriculture.
Incorporating transportation costs into the single and multiple items newsvendor problems
Authors: Hariga Moncer
Published: June 2024

The efficiency and responsiveness of supply chains are vitally dependent on inventory replenishment and transportation decisions. In this paper, we study a supply chain consisting of a single retailer ordering seasonal products within the newsvendor framework. The primary objective of the paper is to investigate the retailer’s decision-making process, aimed at determining the optimal replenishment quantities and selecting the appropriate mix and size of the truck fleet. Initially, we formulate a mathematical model where the retailer exclusively manages a limited fleet of its own trucks for inbound transportation of a single seasonal product. In this context, we determine a lower breakeven point for the fixed transportation cost than what has been previously proposed in the literature. Subsequently, we examine a commonly encountered transportation scenario where the retailer has the opportunity to expand its fleet size by leasing trucks from the external market. The outcomes of the numerical example indicates that the flexibility resulting from the utilization of different types of trucks can lead to reduced overall costs. We also address the practical transportation problem of efficiently shipping various seasonal products solely with the retailer’s own trucks. For this complex problem, we propose an optimal solution procedure based on Lagrangian method. We show that the joint replenishment of multiple products results in cost savings and enhances utilization of the trucks’ capacities.
Integrating Embodied Social Presence Theory and Process Virtualization Theory to assess business process virtualizability: The mediating role of embodied co-presence
Authors: Yang Juan , Fang Hualong
Published: June 2024

In the digital era, the integration of technology within business processes is pivotal for organizational efficiency. This study investigates the impact of IT characteristics-specifically IT representation, IT reach, and monitoring capability-on the virtualizability of business processes, utilizing the frameworks of Embodied Social Presence Theory (ESPT) and Process Virtualization Theory (PVT). Our objective is to explore how these IT characteristics, through the mediation of embodied co-presence, enhance business process virtualizability in the context of collaborative tools. Addressing a gap in existing literature, we propose that beyond facilitating virtualization, IT characteristics deeply influence virtual processes by integrating human-centric experiences of co-presence. To examine this, we analyzed data from 311 Korean employees with remote work experience during the COVID-19 pandemic using Smart-PLS 4. Our findings indicate that IT representation and IT reach significantly contribute to business process virtualizability, mediated by embodied co-presence. Surprisingly, monitoring capability did not significantly affect either embodied co-presence or process virtualizability, challenging initial assumptions. This study bridges ESPT and PVT to offer new insights into the roles of IT characteristics in process virtualization, highlighting the importance of human-centric IT design. The results provide valuable guidance for businesses and developers of collaborative tools, underscoring the need to enhance virtual work environments through technology that fosters a sense of presence and collaboration.
A misleading tail: A long-term study of reptile responses to multiple disturbances undermined by a change in surveying techniques
Authors: Evans Maldwyn John , MacGregor Christopher , Lindenmayer David
Published: June 2024

Long-term ecological monitoring is crucial to understanding the complex dynamics of ecosystems, communities, and populations. Despite this, monitoring data are lacking or rare for the vast majority of biodiversity. Here we report the results of 19 years (2003–2022) of continuous annual monitoring of reptile species at Booderee National Park (BNP) on the east coast of south-eastern Australia. We tested the effects of time, habitat type, fire, and climate on detections of five reptile species. Our study revealed declines in detections of two skink species over time (Lampropholis delicata and Ctenotus taeniolatus), which we suspect was partly driven by weather conditions influencing activity of these species. We also identified broad vegetation type associations for two congeneric species with L. delicata being associated with forested sites, and Lampropholis guichenoti associated with more shrubby sites. Our results also demonstrated a clear association between Cryptophis nigrescens and L. delicata and fire, with the probabilities of detection of both species decreasing with time since fire in the short term. At about the midway point of our study (in 2011), we were forced to make a change in the way our data were collected. The change heavily influenced our findings, and so breached the integrity of the time series in our dataset. We acknowledge that a simple but crucial step to mitigate this breach would have been to conduct calibration that allowed subsequent analysis to control for a change in field survey methodology. Whilst improvements in the effectiveness of field survey methods might be possible through new technologies, it is crucial to maintain the integrity of long-term datasets as data collection continues.
Democracy in Aotearoa New Zealand: A Survival Guide, Geoffrey Palmer and Gwen Palmer Steeds (2022)
Authors: Wilson John F.
Published: June 2024

Review of: Democracy in Aotearoa New Zealand: A Survival Guide, Geoffrey Palmer and Gwen Palmer Steeds (2022)

Wellington: Te Herenga Waka University Press, 400 pp.,

ISBN 978 1 77692 016 7 (pbk), NZ$40
Who was Jutta Merensky? In search of a German photographer of the Pacific
Authors: Thomas Nicholas
Published: June 2024

Outlined with this report is what is known regarding a significant donation of photographs received by the Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA), Cambridge, in 2010. The photographer was Jutta Merensky, later Jutta Gethen (1911–96). Information available at present indicates that she visited the Pacific twice or more, probably in 1961 and over 1968–69. Several hundred transparencies and prints now cared for in Cambridge feature landscapes, ceremonies, people and daily activities in Aotearoa New Zealand, Samoa, French Polynesia and elsewhere and notably include a sequence of tatau (tattooing) photographs from Samoa.
SADC Multilateral Approach for Sustainable Development in Cabo Delgado
Authors: Mpshane-Nkosi Mmakoena
Published: June 2024

This article investigates the political stability of Cabo Delgado’s insurgency in Mozambique and the regional multilateral efforts of the South African Development Community (SADC) and international organisations. Since establishing the United Nations’ seventeen Sustainable Development Goals five years ago, recent studies have shown that governance sustainability is essential for peace and security. According to Meadowcroft (2007), sustainable governance refers to the socio-political governance systems established to achieve sustainable growth. Thus, sustainable governance is a foundation for ensuring the achievement of long-term governmental goals managed and operated by multiple actors within a system. Sustainable development promotes methodical and constructive planning of current and future usage of resources. Governance refers to how government manage and exercises the country’s economic and social resources for growth.   While many scholars in the last two years, such as Bosman and Gruzd (2022), Sithole (2022), and Okunade et al. (2021), have indicated the conflict vulnerability to the Southern African region, the government and bloc’s slow response, particularly in dealing with the armed conflict; this study argues that the multilaterally the region responded on time and is ensuring sustainable development and peace and security.  The article details the multilateral approach used for counterterrorism, mainly the use of military intervention and continuous discourse within political spaces. The qualitative method extrapolates how stability, safety and security were achieved and the sustainable development plans. 
Keywords: Insurgency, Cabo Delgado, SADC, Mozambique, Multilateralism, Good Governance Theory
The Effect of Managerial Ability on Firm Investment Decisions: Evidence from Egyptian Stock Market
Authors: Said Yasmeen , Eissa Ola Mohamed Shawky , Srour Heba Mohamed
Published: June 2024

The research aims to present the idea of managerial ability and how to measure it, as well as to investigate the relationship between the managerial ability of managers and its influence on investment decisions in the company in terms of the availability of opportunities, the effectiveness of choosing investments, and the change in the volume of investments. The three key assumptions that will be tested in this study are as follows: (1) No significant statistical relationship between managerial abilities and the availability of investment opportunities. (2) No statistically significant correlation between the volume of investments and managerial ability. (3) The efficacy of investment decisions does not exhibit a statistically significant correlation with managerial ability. Both inductive and deductive methods are used in this study. The statistical analysis was carried out between 2013 and 2022 using annual financial statement data from the sample companies, which included 24 companies from the EGX 30 index of the Egyptian Stock Exchange. Data envelope analysis and Tobit regression were employed to estimate the three research models and test the hypotheses because the dependent variable had a range of values from 0 to 1. The study found that managerial ability has a positive association with investment decision efficacy, investment volume, and investment opportunities.
Keywords: Managerial ability, Demirjian model, Tobit regression, Investment prospects.
Encryption of Color Images with a New Framework
Authors: Pirdawood Mardan A. , Kareem Shadman , Al-Rassam Omar
Published: June 2024

The significance of image encryption has risen due to the widespread use of images as a key means of sharing data across different applications. Encryption methods are crucial in defending the confidentiality and integrity of valuable image data. This work proposes a novel method of image encryption technique based on the Elzaki transformation and substitution process, which is made possible by the extension of the Maclaurin series coefficients. The image is encrypted using an infinite series of hyperbolic functions and the Elzaki transform; the inverse Elzaki transform is then used to decrypt the image. Using modular arithmetic, the coefficients that result from the transformation are keyed.
EFFECT OF ISO 56002 INNOVATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES ON CORPORATE PERFORMANCE COMPONENTS: RESEARCH WITHIN THE SCOPE OF R&D EMPLOYEES
Authors: Özkan Ömer
Published: June 2024

The main purpose of this research is to determine the effect of ISO 56002 innovation management system fundamental principles on corporate performance components within the scope of R&D employee perceptions. In this context, the survey form prepared for the research was applied between March 2023 and July 2023, over face-to-face and teams on 29 employees (managers and specialists) of the R&D and Innovation company which has 37 employees and was entitled to be certified by successfully passing the ISO 56002 Innovation Management System Certification audit for the first time in Turkey
Within the scope of the ISO 56002 innovation management system, nine factors (Profitability, Productivity, Productiveness, Effectiveness, Efficiency, High Quality, Customer Satisfaction, Expectation and Attitude, Strategic and Operational Success and Human Resources Behavioural Dimensions) are determined for the effect of innovation management system fundamental principles on corporate performance components. These factors are perceived as very high concern by the participants. On the other hand, very high, high and medium correlations emerged among the factors positively.
Consequently, it is observed that ISO 56002 innovation management system fundamental principles affect corporate performance components. According to the research findings, it is noteworthy that companies should have a robust innovation system as a strategic priority and main driving force, especially to achieve success in corporate performance management. It can be remarked that the internationally accepted ISO 56002 Management System standard forms a basis for establishing, implementing, and maintaining an innovation system for providing better services through innovation in their products and services, achieving customer satisfaction and continuous improvement.
Keragaman Spasial Faktor-faktor Penentu Harga Jual Rumah di Kota Depok
Authors: Fikri Arie , Pravitasari Andrea Emma , Indraprahasta Galuh Syahbana
Published: June 2024

Pembangunan kawasan perumahan menjadi primadona di Kota Depok mengingat letaknya yang strategis sebagai kota satelit Jakarta dengan fasilitas yang relatif memadai. Sebagai dampaknya, terjadi lonjakan penduduk yang terus meningkat. Hal ini kemudian berujung pada peningkatan harga jual rumah yang tidak terkendali dengan wajar. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengungkap faktor-faktor penentu harga jual rumah dan memberikan arahan spasial terkait pengendalian harga jual rumah di Kota Depok. Metode regresi Ordinary Least Square (OLS) dan Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) digunakan untuk menjawab tujuan tersebut. Hasil analisis regresi OLS mengungkapkan bahwa dimensi struktural dan atribut lokasi fasilitas memberikan pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap penentuan harga jual rumah. Selain itu, hasil analisis GWR mengungkapkan bahwa atribut lokasi fasilitas berupa jarak ke Central Business District (CBD) Jakarta dinilai dapat berperan efektif sebagai instrumen pengendali harga jual rumah demi pemanfaatan ruang berkelanjutan di Kota Depok.
Influence of hypercapnia and hypercapnic hypoxia on the heart rate response to apnea
Authors: O'Croinin Benjamin R. , Young Desmond A. , Maier Lauren E. , van Diepen Sean , Day Trevor A. , Steinback Craig D.
Published: June 2024

We aimed to determine the relative contribution of hypercapnia and hypoxia to the bradycardic response to apneas. We hypothesized that apneas with hypercapnia would cause greater bradycardia than normoxia, similar to the response seen with hypoxia, and that apneas with hypercapnic hypoxia would induce greater bradycardia than hypoxia or hypercapnia alone. Twenty‐six healthy participants (12 females; 23 ± 2 years; BMI 24 ± 3 kg/m2) underwent three gas challenges: hypercapnia (+5 torr end tidal partial pressure of CO2 [PETCO2]), hypoxia (50 torr end tidal partial pressure of O2 [PETO2]), and hypercapnic hypoxia (combined hypercapnia and hypoxia), with each condition interspersed with normocapnic normoxia. Heart rate and rhythm, blood pressure, PETCO2, PETO2, and oxygen saturation were measured continuously. Hypercapnic hypoxic apneas induced larger bradycardia (−19 ± 16 bpm) than normocapnic normoxic apneas (−11 ± 15 bpm; p = 0.002), but had a comparable response to hypoxic (−19 ± 15 bpm; p = 0.999) and hypercapnic apneas (−14 ± 14 bpm; p = 0.059). Hypercapnic apneas were not different from normocapnic normoxic apneas (p = 0.134). After removal of the normocapnic normoxic heart rate response, the change in heart rate during hypercapnic hypoxia (−11 ± 16 bpm) was similar to the summed change during hypercapnia+hypoxia (−9 ± 10 bpm; p = 0.485). Only hypoxia contributed to this bradycardic response. Under apneic conditions, the cardiac response is driven by hypoxia.
Detraining after short‐term exercise induces hyperphagia and obesity with fatty liver and brown adipose tissue whitening in young male OLETF rats
Authors: Oshima Takaya , Takaishi Kaho , Nishihira Misuzu , Nguyen Son Tien , Urakawa Susumu , Ohno Haruya , Fujita Naoto
Published: June 2024

This study examined the effects of exercise and detraining at a young age on fat accumulation in various organs. Four‐week‐old male Otsuka Long‐Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats were assigned to either the non‐exercise sedentary (OLETF Sed) or exercise groups. The exercise group was subdivided into two groups: exercise between 4 and 12 weeks of age (OLETF Ex) and exercise between 4 and 6 weeks of age followed by non‐exercise between 6 and 12 weeks of age (OLETF DT). Body weight was significantly lower in the OLETF Ex group than in the OLETF Sed group at 12 weeks of age. Fat accumulation in the epididymal white adipose tissue, liver, and brown adipose tissue was suppressed in the OLETF Ex group. During the exercise period, body weight and food intake in the OLETF DT group were significantly lower than those in the OLETF Sed group. However, food intake was significantly higher in the OLETF DT group than in the OLETF Sed group after exercise cessation, resulting in extreme obesity with fatty liver and brown adipose tissue whitening. Detraining after early‐onset exercise promotes hyperphagia, causing extreme obesity. Overeating should be avoided during detraining periods in cases of exercise cessation at a young age.
Inflammatory pathway communication with skeletal muscle—Does aging play a role? A topical review of the current evidence
Authors: Cornish Stephen M. , Cordingley Dean M.
Published: June 2024

Skeletal muscle plays an integral role in locomotion, but also as part of the integrative physiological system. Recent progress has identified crosstalk between skeletal muscle and various physiological systems, including the immune system. Both the musculoskeletal and immune systems are impacted by aging. Increased age is associated with decreased muscle mass and function, while the immune system undergoes “inflammaging” and immunosenescence. Exercise is identified as a preventative medicine that can mitigate loss of function for both systems. This review summarizes: (1) the inflammatory pathways active in skeletal muscle; and (2) the inflammatory and skeletal muscle response to unaccustomed exercise in younger and older adults. Compared to younger adults, it appears older individuals have a muted pro‐inflammatory response and elevated anti‐inflammatory response to exercise. This important difference could contribute to decreased regeneration and recovery following unaccustomed exercise in older adults, as well as in chronic disease. The current research provides specific information on the role inflammation plays in altering skeletal muscle form and function, and adaptation to exercise; however, the pursuit of more knowledge in this area will delineate specific interventions that may enhance skeletal muscle recovery and promote resiliency in this tissue particularly with aging.
All the Way from Saudi Arabia to the United States: The Inspiration of Architectural Heritage in Art
Authors: Alsuwaida Nouf
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the relationship between architectural heritage in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United States, providing insights for place-based learning (PBL). The researcher analyzes the similarities and differences between New Mexico (NM) and Saudi Arabia, such as materials, color, and motif units, to design and apply them to develop a range of modern designs. The study method used is an experiential approach based on a case study, based on the author’s living experience in NM from 2014 to 2018, visiting museums and heritage areas, taking photographs, and tasting the culture. Moreover, this study includes a literature review for PBL. In addition, the research study uses a descriptive and experimental method and practical procedure by designing, borrowing, and analyzing the inspiration of specific traditions and integrating both cultures into artworks and ornaments in weaving beads and textiles. The result of the study applied six innovative designs by creating art projects through experimental learning. The result presented three themes: (1) similarities in instructions, materials, and colors of the architectural heritage between the Santa Fe and Saudi Najd styles, (2) differences between the architectural heritage doors, windows, and roof system, and (3) drawing inspiration from architectural heritage for textile bead weaving designs.
An investigation into the impact of thermal radiation and chemical reactions on the flow through porous media of a Casson hybrid nanofluid including unstable mixed convection with stretched sheet in the presence of thermophoresis and Brownian motion
Authors: Dandu Sridevi , Chitrapu Venkata Ramana Murthy , Kodi Raghunath
Published: June 2024

This article investigates the unsteady mixed convention two-dimensional flow of magnetohydrodynamic Casson hybrid nanofluids (alumina oxide and titanium oxide nanoparticles with base fluid water) flow through porous media over a linearly stretched sheet. We analyzed the heat and mass transfer in mixed convection, thermal radiation, variable thermal conductivity, variable mass diffusivity, and chemical reaction in the presence of thermophoresis and Brownian motion. A system of partial differential equations is reduced to a solvable system of ordinary differential equations by applying a suitable similarity transformation. We used the Runga–Kutta method along with the shooting procedure to solve the flow, heat, and mass transfer equations along with boundary conditions. The results obtained from MATLAB codes are compared with previously published results of the same type in a limiting case. The results of the velocity, temperature, and concentration profile of the hybrid nanofluid for varying different flow parameters are obtained in the form of graphs, while the rate of shear stress, rate of heat, and mass transfer are expressed in tables. We noticed that velocity and temperature diminish as an unsteady parameter increases; however, the reverse trend was observed in the nanoparticle concentration profile. With an increase in the thermal radiation parameter, the resultant velocity and temperature profile improves, while the concentration of nanoparticle profiles decreases. The velocity and temperature increase with higher Brownian motion, while the velocity increases and temperature decreases with higher thermophoresis.
The Effect of Covid-19 on Business Financial Performance
Authors: Akbulut Halim , Öztel Ahmet , Öz Yaşar , Ceyhan İsmail Fatih , Zelka Ahmet
Published: June 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant negative impact on the Turkish economy and the global economy. Turkey’s economy contracted by 10.2% in 2020, recording the most significant decline since the 1950s. The effects of the epidemic could also be observed on companies which had to close or lay off staff. This study aims to examine the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the forest industry by revealing the financial performance of publicly traded forest industry companies in Turkey before and after COVID-19. For this purpose, the financial performances of 11 companies operating in the forest products industry in Turkey and registered in the BIST XKGT index in the 2017-2022 period were examined. In this context, we used the integrated Entropy-CP method. In the initial phase of analysis, criteria weights were determined using the entropy method to assess the significance levels of the financial ratios. Subsequently, financial success rankings were generated by employing the CP method. In general, it was observed that the weight values of the criteria were close to each other. As a result, it was determined that the companies showed the best average financial success in 2022 and the lowest average financial performance in 2017. Following the pandemic’s occurrence, some companies’ performance improved, while others experienced a partial decline. Therefore, no general improvement or worsening trend could be detected during the years of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the context of this study, it was concluded that the pandemic did not affect the financial performance of companies operating in the forest products sector.
Predictors of Hospital Readmission, Institutionalization, and Mortality in Geriatric Rehabilitation Following Hospitalization According to Admission Reason
Authors: Urquiza Miriam , Fernández Naiara , Arrinda Ismene , Espin Ander , García-García Julia , Rodriguez-Larrad Ana , Irazusta Jon
Published: June 2024

Background and Purpose:

Older adults following an inpatient geriatric rehabilitation (GR) program commonly experience adverse health outcomes such as hospital readmission, institutionalization, and mortality. Although several studies have explored factors related to these outcomes, the influence of admission reason on the predictive factors of adverse health outcomes in the rehabilitation process remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to identify predictive factors for adverse health outcomes in inpatients attending GR according to their admission reason.

Methods:

This retrospective study included patients with orthogeriatric (OG) conditions and patients with hospital-associated deconditioning (HAD) admitted to GR after an acute hospitalization between 2016 and 2020. Patients were evaluated by a comprehensive geriatric assessment at admission, including sociodemographic data, social resources, clinical data, cognitive, functional and nutritional status, and physical performance measurements. Adverse health outcomes were collected (hospital readmission, institutionalization, and mortality). Univariate analyses and multivariate backward binary logistic regressions were used to determine predictive factors.

Results and Discussion:

In this study, 290 patients were admitted for OG conditions, and 122 patients were admitted due to HAD. In patients with OG conditions, lower Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) predicted institutionalization and mortality. Lower Mini Nutritional Assessment-Short Form predicted institutionalization, whereas lower Barthel Index and lower Tinetti-Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment scores were associated with higher mortality. In patients with HAD, higher age-adjusted comorbidity index predicted hospital readmission and mortality, and lower Short Physical Performance Battery scores predicted institutionalization and mortality. Finally, lower MMSE scores, worse values in Older Americans Resources and Services Scale and male gender were associated with a higher risk of institutionalization.

Conclusions:

Predictive factors for hospital readmission, institutionalization, and mortality in patients with OG conditions and HAD during GR were different. Some of those predictors, such as nutritional status and physical performance, are modifiable. Understanding predictive factors for adverse outcomes, and how these factors differ by admission diagnosis, improves our ability to identify patients most at risk. Early identification of these patients could assist with prevention efforts and lead to a reduction of negative outcomes.
Effect of Local Simvastatin on the Healing of Surgically Created Critical-Sized Bone Defects: An experimental Study on sheep.
Authors:   Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, College of Dentistry, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq., Abdulsamad Rebin Azad , Omar Luqman Fawzi
Published: June 2024

Background and objective: the role of simvastatin in lowering serum cholesterol levels is well described. However, recent findings suggest they have a role in bone formation as well. The study aims to determine the effect of local simvastatin application on bone defect healing and compare the amount of new bone produced by a simvastatin-treated defect with that produced by a bone graft (biphasic calcium phosphate) and non-treated defects (left empty) histologically. Methods: Forty-five critical-size defects were created (8mm in diameter and depth) in the iliac bone of 6 sheep. For the first three sheep (5 defects/ilium), the five defects on the right ilium were left empty as a Control group, while the five defects on the left ilium were filled with biphasic calcium phosphate as Test 1 group. For the other three sheep, 5 defects were created on the right ilium, the defects were filled with 10mg crushed simvastatin tablet with gelfoam (as a carrier) as Test 2 group. The animals were sacrificed over periods of 1, 2, and 3 months. Histopathological studies were done for all the samples. SPSS version 28 was used to analyze the results. The numerical variables were checked for normality using Smirnov – Kolmogorov test, then analyzed using ANOVA and unpaired t-test (p–values ≤ 0.05 were considered statistically significant). Results: All 6 adult male sheep passed the scheduled periods uneventfully. During the wound healing period, there was no complication such as infection, excessive hematoma, or wound dehiscence. All 45 standardized iliac bone defects were included in the final analysis (n= 45). The histologic results showed that Test 2 group (defect filled with simvastatin) in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd months had significantly higher bone formation at the surface and depth of the defects than Test 1 and Control group with P values (<0.0001) at all period intervals. Conclusion: Simvastatin enhances bone formation and accelerates the healing process of the bony defect. Keywords: Bone formation, Bone graft, Bone healing, Simvastatin, Statin.
Effect of Apical Preparation on Different Needle Depth Penetration.
Authors:   Department of Conservative Dentistry, College of Dentistry, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq., Essa Samara Gurgis , Saeed Razawa Kareem , Baker Diyar Khalid
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Irrigation is a fundamental part of endodontic debridement as because it allows for cleaning beyond what might be accomplished by root canal instrumentation. The flushing action produced by the irrigant and the penetration of the irrigant is not dependent only on the anatomy of the root canal system, but also on the depth of placement, system of delivery, the volume and fluid properties of the irrigant. Aim: The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of apical preparation on the penetration depth of different types of needles. Methods: Thirty single-rooted lower premolar teeth were involved in this study. The access opening was performed by using a round diamond bur turbine (diameter 12) and Kfiles (diameter 15) were used for initial penetration in the canal. Stereo- microscope under 20 magnifications was used to determine the working length of the canal. Then the canals were prepared using protaper next in continuos rotation according to manufacture instructions with sequence files reached the WL (X1, X2, X3, X4). 4 mL of 5.25% NaOCI was used between each instrument. Three different types of endodontic needles were used. Needles size 27, 30-gauge stainless steel and IRRIFLEX endodontic irrigation needle. Each needle was inserted in the canal and its length of penetration was measured before canal preparation and after finishing files then the depth of penetration was measured. Results: ANOVA test showed that there are significant differences among all groups also results show a significant difference when comparing 27 with 30 needle gauge irriflex but there was no significant difference between the needle gauge 30 and irriflex. Conclusion: This study shows that the penetration depth of needles influences on apical preparation it appears that 27 -gauge needles show less depth penetration when compared to irriflex and 30- gauge needles. Keywords: apical, needle, penetration depth, endodontics.
The “Futility of Thrift” and the Moral Economy of Nineteenth-Century Britain
Authors: Loftus Donna
Published: June 2024

This essay seeks to understand the “moral confusion” (to use David Graeber’s term in Debt) that surrounds thrift. It argues that thrift emerged as a moral imperative in the mid-nineteenth century as urban economies centered on mass consumption expanded, provoking fears of national degeneration in a working population enslaved by their own desires for immediate gratification from the panoply of food and fashion outlets. In response, a popular political economy emerged with tips on navigating the temptations of department stores and leisure complexes and avoiding the moral hazard of indebtedness by exercising restraint. These tropes imagined national regeneration, a stable economy, and a civilized society emerging from the saved capital generated by individual thrift, which could then be invested in solid, enduring businesses. At the same time, writers on the margins of conventional economics realized that a thriving urban economy, one able to provide employment for a growing population, was built on consumption: the survival of many small businesses depended on local people spending money in local shops, bars, and restaurants. This paper discusses these visions of the economy to explore the roots of an enduring tension in performative moral economy of thrift: while thrift was (and still is) associated with a morally responsible and sustainable capitalism, an everyday economy built on mass consumption depends on shopping and spending to keep capital moving. It argues that then (as now?), this contradiction was resolved through a moralized political economy that focused blame on the consumption habits of the urban poor rather than the structural inequalities resulting from the temporalities of capital investment.
AN INTEGRATED INDICATOR FRAMEWORK TO PROMOTE CHILD WELL-BEING IN NAMIBIA
Authors: Kamuingona Rahimisa , Rabie Babette
Published: June 2024

Namibia has adopted several policies, pieces of legislation and programmes aimed at improving the well-being of children. However, the Namibian National Policy on Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) of 2004 no longer adequately reflects the contemporary problems faced by vulnerable children. Policy makers require a comprehensive and integrated set of indicators to inform policy revision to make informed choices. This article reviewed national and international child protection reports, evaluation studies and indices to identify contemporary indicators for tracking child well-being in Namibia. It found that while the available indicators reflect objective well-being measures, there is a gap in tracking the subjective experiences of children, child safety and the promotion of children’s rights. The article offers an alternative integrated indicator framework that captures multiple dimensions of child well-being. Adoption of this framework can enable policy makers to make more informed decisions to support vulnerable children. Keywords: child well-being, indicator framework, objective well-being, orphans and vulnerable children, subjective well-being
Arheološki nadzor i istraživanja u Tuđmanovoj ulici u Zadru
Authors: Jurković Pešić Filipa
Published: June 2024

Rad donosi preliminarne rezultate arheoloških istraživanja provedenih prilikom rekonstrukcije Ulice dr. Franje Tuđmana u Zadru. Unatoč tomu što spomenuta prometnica prolazi kroz srce rimskodobne zadarske nekropole, prilikom nadzora otkriven je razmjerno mali broj grobova iz tog vremena. Glavni razlog tomu je što je veći dio iskopa, dubok pretežito od 120 do 150 cm, išao kroz slojeve recentnog nasipa. Manja arheološka iskopavanja provedena su na prostoru uz samostan sv. Ivana. Unutar sonde površine 46 m2 definirano je i istraženo devet grobova inhumiranih pokojnika. Rezultati 14 C analize kostiju pokojnika datiraju pokop u vrijeme između 1634. i 1794. godine.