bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LITURGICAL INFLUENCES IN THE WESTERN PART PAINTINGS OF TBILISI CHURCHES IN 19TH AND 20TH CENTURIES
Authors: Osepashvili Lali
Published: April 2023

At end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, several churches were painted in Tbilisi, but not many of them have survived and I would like to focus on the scenes in western part of the three churches. These are: The Choir of Mtatsminda Mama-daviti Church, the paintings of gate of Holy Trinity Church and the western arm of St Nicholas of Chugureti. In western parts of these churches, artists placed illustrations of Gospel parables, so these three churches have much in common, they are influenced by liturgy, depicting scenes: “Pharisee and Publican” and “Firstborn Son”. The following research is substantial, iconographic schemes in ecclesiastical art are not randomly selected, and beyond these images both art historian and contemporary artist must seek basis for what led to selection of given scenes, as well as how they are interwoven into common idea. The research problem in this paper is the influence of the liturgy on the paintings of the churches and the connection of these scenes with other scenes of this church as well as with other churches of the mentioned period, i.e. showing relationship. Literally speaking, the illustration of Gospel parables in the western part of the church seems to be conditioned by the instruction of one who enters it, but in addition to these two themes, doctrine also has a liturgical content, namely, before Lent begins, the church celebrates the Sunday of Pentecost; and their presentation serves and presents purification of man, his spiritual, inner eye. This problem has not been stated by anyone before, it should also be noted that as I mentioned, there is no uniform opinion among scholars about paintings of churches of this period and it is less studied, which once again emphasizes the problematics of issue to be studied. On the one hand, I use method of iconographic analysis as method of research, which as a whole implies both theological understanding of forms and the judgment of artistic performance analysis, as well as comparative method.
КОНЦЕПЦІЯ WELLNESS ЯК ІННОВАЦІЙНИЙ НАПРЯМОК ОРГАНІЗАЦІЇ РОБОТИ ГОТЕЛЬНИХ ПІДПРИЄМСТВ
Authors: Парфіненко Тетяна
Published: April 2023

Стаття присвячена визначенню особливостей роботи готельних підприємств на засадах Wellness. В роботі розглянуто концепцію Wellness, як інноваційний напрям розвитку готелів. Визначено основні відмінності між Wellness-готелями і готелями з Wellness-центрами, які полягають: у функціональній значимості оздоровчої послуги (цільова, додаткова), терміні перебування у готелях та маркетинговій стратегії просування продукту. Наведено концептуальну модель Wellness-середовища готелю. З’ясовано чинники, що впливають на прибутковість оздоровчих готелів. Визначено конкурентні переваги, що надають Wellness-центри готельним підприємствам та виявлено організаційні особливості Wellness-центрів у структурі готельних підприємств. Проведене дослідження дозволило з’ясувати особливості роботи Wellness-готелів і готелів з Wellness-центрами та визначити основні характеристики Wellness-послуги, як специфічного готельного продукту.
СУЧАСНІ ПРОЯВИ ЦИФРОВОЇ ТРАНСФОРМАЦІЇ РЕГІОНІВ УКРАЇНИ (ЗА МАТЕРІАЛАМИ ЗАКАРПАТСЬКОЇ ОБЛАСТІ)
Authors: Чубарь Оксана , Русин Олександр
Published: April 2023

Стаття присвячена актуальним питанням розвитку процесів цифровізації у регіонах України з наголосом на їх особливостях у Закарпатській області. Виокремлено основні напрями діяльності створеного в 2019 р. Міністерства цифрової трансформації, наголошено на суттєвій активізації цифрової трансформації регіонів, зокрема у зв’язку із запровадженням посади заступників голів ОДА з цифровізації. Узагальнено інформацію з відкритих джерел щодо головних результатів діяльності міністерства упродовж першого року. Відображено головні підсумки цифровізації в Закарпатській області за 2021-2022 роки. Виділено цілі Регіональної програми інформатизації Закарпатської області на 2023-2025 роки, в яких зроблено наголос на заходах з удосконалення системи освіти та створення ряду застосунків, у тому числі мобільного застосунку «Моє Закарпаття».
ABDULLAH BADAWI’S FOREIGN POLICY TOWARDS CHINA: THREE-LEVEL ANALYSIS OF A PRAGMATIC AND IDEALISTIC DIPLOMACY STRATEGY IN A TWO-WAY COOPERATION
Authors: Mohamad Ridzuan Mohamad Ikhram , Ma'dan Marfunizah
Published: April 2023

During his administration from 2003 to 2009, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi chose to continue the foreign policy of Mahathir Mohamad. However, he also applied a more ‘middle-ground’ approach that was neither provocative nor aggressive. This had on occasion portrayed him as a weak leader, contributing to the loss of majority seats for Barisan Nasional (BN) in the 12th general election. Nonetheless, during his tenure, there was an increase in cooperation between Malaysia and China in the educational and sociocultural fields, as well as cooperation with government-linked companies (GLCs), which had not happened before. How far did the moderate personality of Abdullah provide a significant impact on the structuring of Malaysia’s foreign policy towards China? This research will look at a three-level analysis that was conducted in assessing the foreign policy of Malaysia towards China during the period. The three levels that were analysed were international, national, and personality factors. A neoclassical realist approach was applied to look at the changing international political landscape and its impact on Malaysian foreign policy towards China. This research applied a qualitative method of obtaining primary data through structured interviews with key informants and an analytical method based on chronology—unsupported by empirical evidence from secondary data. In conclusion, the research revealed that Malaysia’s foreign policy towards China during Abdullah Badawi’s administration was a combination of ongoing maturing of relations and an increase in bilateral cooperation which had not been explored before. The research also found that although Abdullah Badawi was seen as a relatively weak leader in domestic politics, he made a significant impact on the continuity of Malaysia’s national interest, particularly in the soft power competition between the USA and China in Southeast Asia.
Violence Against Women (VAW) as Gendered Hate Crimes
Authors: Abir Saloua , Zrizi Hassan
Published: April 2023

Violence against women (VAW) is a deeply rooted form of misogyny that has always been universally predominant. It targets women and girls from all socio-cultural backgrounds and impacts their self-fulfillment at the personal and professional levels. The utmost manifestation of gendered hatred and sexism, VAW has evolved into a pandemic phenomenon. This paper is based on two main premises. Gender is a risk factor in crimes that women are exposed to, such as rape, femicide or even domestic violence. For this reason, violence against women in all its forms should be legally dealt with under the scope of hate crimes. This article aims at defining the various types of VAW and studying their in-depth impact on the victims. It analyses some statistics based on the United Nations and the World Health Organization reports. It historicizes the concept of hate crimes scrutinizing its relationship with VAW. It argues for the legal relabeling of violence against women (more particularly, femicide and rape) as subcategories of hate crimes, hence the urgency to a legal reform that would protect women worldwide from such a social plight.
Optimizing of Discrete Time-cost Trade-off Problem in Construction Projects Using Advanced Jaya Algorithm
Authors: Albayrak Gülçağ
Published: April 2023

This paper proposes a novel algorithm to optimize the discrete time-cost trade-off problem (DTCTP) in construction projects. As DTCTP is assumed NP-hard, the new metaheuristic models are investigated to contribute for decision-making of project managers. DTCTP can be modelled as multi-mode to represent real-life problems more practical. According to the model, the project activities have at least two or more durations and cost alternative modes. For solving this problem effectively, a novel optimization metaheuristic method named Advanced Jaya Algorithm (A-JA) is proposed, which is generated from Jaya Algorithm (JA). The benchmark function tests are applied to verify the model with other well-known metaheuristic methods. The key weakness of the base algorithm JA is that, it has unstable solution accuracy and low likelihood of escaping local optimums. According to the results, A-JA considerably improves these areas. Two case studies of DTCTP are carried out after verification to demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed algorithm in comparison with JA and three well-known methods. The results of A-JA are found to be more powerful than the base algorithm JA and the benchmark algorithms. The proposed method achieves the Pareto fronts to help decision makers to make trade-off between the objectives and choose the optimum solution considering on their preference.
The Influence of Islamic Corporate Governance and Islamic Corporate Social Responsibility on Financial Performance of Islamic Commercial Banks in Indonesia
Authors:   Sriwijaya University, Palembang, Indonesia, Permatasari Alfiah , Syathiri Ahmad ,   Sriwijaya University, Palembang, Indonesia, Fuadah Luk Luk ,   Sriwijaya University, Palembang, Indonesia
Published: April 2023

Islamic banks in Indonesia must implement good corporate governance and adhere to the principles of corporate social responsibility to have good financial performance and gain customers' trust. This study aims to determine the impact of Islamic Corporate Governance (ICG) and Islamic Corporate Social Responsibility (ICSR) on financial performance based on the Islamic Performance Index of Indonesian Islamic Banks from 2015-2019. The study population included Islamic commercial banks registered with the Financial Services Authority (OJK) from 2015-2019. The sample size was determined by targeted sampling to obtain 9 Islamic banks. This study used a descriptive quantitative approach. The descriptive analysis aims to demonstrate that the ICG, ICSR and financial performance data are relevant and valid concerning the development of the Islamic banking industry from 2015-2019. Quantitative analysis to justify the proposed hypothesis uses the multiple linear regression method. The results show that (1) Islamic corporate governance (ICG) has a positive and significant impact on the financial performance of Indonesian Islamic banks; (2) Islamic Corporate Social Responsibility (ICSR) has a positive and significant impact on the financial performance of Indonesian Islamic Banks. Implementing the principles of good corporate governance, including transparency and openness, following sharia principles helps to increase the financial performance of Islamic banks in Indonesia. Sharia theory of corporations suggests that social responsibility is a form of human accountability to God. The primary goal of disclosing information to corporate stakeholders can minimize information asymmetries about the extent to which an institution is fulfilling its obligations to all stakeholders.
The Influence of Love of Money, Machiavellianism, and Injunctive Norms on Tax Evasion with Religiosity as Moderating Variable
Authors:   Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia, Mangngalla' Muliani , Alimuddin Alimuddin ,   Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia, Pontoh Grace T. ,   Hasanuddin University, Makassar, Indonesia
Published: April 2023

Taxes form 85% of Indonesia's state budget revenues. Based on the importance of tax discipline, the government has implemented various tax reforms to increase tax revenue targets. However, many taxpayers try to find loopholes to avoid paying part of their taxes. The purpose of the study is to assess the influence of love of money, machiavellianism, and injunctive norms on tax evasion with religiosity as moderating variable. The object of the study is 100 taxpayers served by the North Makassar Primary Tax Service Office and South Makassar Primary Tax Service Office. The criterion for choosing taxpayers is the size of the annual income of more than 60 million rupees. Data were collected using questionnaires with a Likert scale. Love of money variable is measured by the money ethics scale (MES) developed by Tang (2002) using 4 indicators. The machiavellianism variable is measured by the 7-item Mach IV scale, which is adapted from Christie's (1970) indicator. The variable of injunctive norms is measured by the indicators developed by Bobek et al. (2013). The religiosity variable was measured using indicators developed by Glock and Stark (1965). The tax evasion variable was measured by 5 indicators with 7 statements developed by Suminarsasi and Supriyadi (2011). The partial least square (PLS) method was used for data analysis. The study’s results showed that love of money and machiavellianism have a positive and significant influence on tax evasion. In contrast, injunctive norms negatively and significantly influence tax evasion. At the same time, religiosity moderates the impact of these factors on tax evasion. This suggests that high love of money, manipulative nature and willingness to adapt to the environment are why taxpayers cheat on their tax obligations. Still, taxpayers' religiosity can be a deterrent factor to tax evasion.
Các yếu tố ảnh hưởng đến ý định sử dụng hệ thống thông tin nông nghiệp của người nông dân khu vực trung du và miền núi phía Bắc
Authors: Phạm Hoàng Linh , Nguyễn Khánh Doanh
Published: April 2023

Nghiên cứu này đánh giá tác động của các yếu tố tới ý định sử dụng hệ thống thông tin nông nghiệp của người nông dân khu vực trung du và miền núi phía Bắc. Trên cơ sở lý thuyết chấp nhận công nghệ, nghiên cứu vận dụng phương pháp phân tích nhân tố khẳng định và mô hình cấu trúc tuyến tính với dữ liệu sơ cấp từ điều tra người nông dân tại bốn tỉnh: Thái Nguyên, Cao Bằng, Bắc Kạn và Phú Thọ. Kết quả cho thấy cả nhận thức về tính hữu ích và tính dễ sử dụng đều có tác động trực tiếp đến ý định sử dụng hệ thống thông tin nông nghiệp của người nông dân. Tuy nhiên, nhận thức về tính hữu ích có tác động lớn hơn. Do đó, nghiên cứu cho rằng cần phải tập trung nâng cao nhận thức của người nông dân về tính hữu ích của hệ thống thông tin nông nghiệp. Bên cạnh đó, phải cải thiện nhận thức của họ về tính dễ sử dụng của hệ thống thông tin, từ đó thúc đẩy họ tự nguyện sử dụng chúng trong phát triển kinh tế.
Análise dos aspectos modais do discurso de mediação em visita guiada no bosque da ciência, em Manaus/AM
Authors: Seiffert Santos Saulo Cézar , Cunha Marcia Borin da
Published: April 2023

A Divulgação Científica realizada por instituições de pesquisa é uma contribuição importante para a educação não formal dos brasileiros. Algumas dessas instituições pesquisam e divulgam a Ciência e a Tecnologia em ambientes abertos naturais, como os bosques, com configurações fixas e que valorizam o vivo, valendo-se de estratégia comunicativa associada à exposição monitorial (mediação de guia). Assim, buscamos desenvolver estratégias para compreender os elementos expositivos na sua diversidade multimodal, enfatizados no discurso do monitor/mediador para ambiente aberto. Escolhemos o Bosque da Ciência, vinculado ao Instituto Nacional de Pesquisa da Amazônia, para a investigação. Usamos como fundamento teórico-metodológico a teoria dos aspectos modais de Herman Dooyeweerd para analisar o discurso de um monitor/mediador durante a visita. Observamos o discurso expositivo do monitor/mediador sobre as estações de visitas de ambientes abertos. Atentamos ao predomínio das ênfases positivas vinculadas à ideia de conservação e educação ambiental nos aspectos estético, ético, jurídico, econômico, social, sensível e biótico.
Echocardiographic reference z scores of right ventricular dimension and systolic function of children aged 5–12 years
Authors: Oladimeji Alaba Busola , Lamina Moriam Omolola , Ubuane Peter Odion , Adekunle Motunrayo Oluwabukola , Kehinde Omolara Adeolu , Animasahun Barakat Adeola , FidelisNjokanma Olisamedua
Published: April 2023

Background: Reference values for right ventricular dimension and systolic function in Nigerian children are scarce despite their high burden of right ventricular abnormalities. Reference values from other countries may not be suitable for use in Nigerian children because of possible racial variations in cardiac size.Purpose: To develop reference values for right ventricular dimension and systolic function in healthy Nigerian children aged 5–12 years.Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study conducted between July and November 2019 included 480 healthy boys and girls aged 5–12 years. The participants were randomly selected from 6 primary schools in the Ikeja Local Government area of Lagos State and their weights and heights measured. Body mass index and body surface area were calculated. Echocardiography was performed at rest in the left lateral position.Results: The right ventricular end-diastolic basal diameter (RVD1), right ventricular end-diastolic mid-cavity diameter (RVD2), and right ventricular end-diastolic length (RVD3) were obtained. The right ventricular end-diastolic basal diameter (RVD1), right ventricular end-diastolic mid-cavity diameter (RVD2), and right ventricular end-diastolic length (RVD3) were obtained, as well as tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) and tissue Doppler-derived right ventricular systolic excursion velocity (S'). The overall mean±standard deviation (SD) values for RVD1, RVD2, RVD3, TAPSE, and S' were 32.95±4.2, 25.86±3.5, 54.57±7.5, 20.11±2.3, and 18.24±2.2, respectively. Age- and sex-specific mean and SD values of the same cardiac indices were determined. Z score charts and the mean± 2SD right ventricular dimensions and systolic function were generated. All right ventricular dimensions were positively correlated with weight, height, body surface area, and body mass index. Only height correlated consistently with TAPSE and S'.Conclusion: The observed mean right ventricular dimension indices differed from those derived elsewhere, suggesting that values from other countries may be inappropriate for Nigerian children. These reference values are applicable in daily clinical practice.
Denosumab as a Pharmacological Countermeasure Against Osteopenia in Long Duration Spaceflight
Authors: Rengel Anthony , Tran Vienna , Toh Li Shean
Published: April 2023

INTRODUCTION: Prolonged exposure to microgravity is associated with a significant reduction in bone density, exposing astronauts to renal calculi in flight and osteoporotic fractures on return to Earth. While physical countermeasures and bisphosphonates may reduce demineralization, additional therapies are needed for future interplanetary missions. This literature review aims to understand the current background pertaining to denosumab (a monoclonal antibody therapy used in osteoporosis) and its potential use for long duration spaceflight.

METHOD: A literature review was conducted using the following keywords: “osteoporosis”; “osteopaenia”; “microgravity”; “space flight”; “bed rest”; “denosumab”; “alendronate”; “bisphosphonates”; and “countermeasures”. Additional articles were identified through references. Included for discussion were 48 articles, including systemic reviews, clinical trials, practice guidelines, and textbooks.

RESULTS: No previous bed rest or in-flight studies regarding denosumab were identified. In osteoporosis, denosumab is superior to alendronate in maintaining bone density with a lower rate of side-effects. Emerging evidence in reduced biomechanical loading state suggests denosumab improves bone density and decreases fracture risk. Concerns exists over vertebral fracture risk following discontinuation. The dosing regimen of denosumab offers practical advantages over bisphosphonates. Existing spaceflight studies with alendronate serve as a template for a study with denosumab and allow for a direct comparison of efficacy and safety.

DISCUSSION: Denosumab has numerous potential advantages as a countermeasure to microgravity-induced osteopenia when compared to alendronate, including: improved efficacy; fewer side-effects: better tolerability; and a convenient dosing regimen. Two further studies are proposed to determine in-flight efficacy and the suitability of monoclonal antibody therapy in the spaceflight environment.

Rengel A, Tran V, Toh LS. Denosumab as a pharmacological countermeasure against osteopenia in long duration spaceflight. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2023; 94(5):389–395.
Management of Cervical Stenosis - Mechanical Dilatation Adjunct with Hormonal Therapy
Authors:   United Christian Hospital, 130 Hip Wo Street, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, Ying Wong Pui , Hung Yu Chun ,   United Christian Hospital, 130 Hip Wo Street, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Published: April 2023

Madam C was a 39-year-old primiparous lady having history of one IVF pregnancy delivered by Caesarean section (CS). She was found cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia (CIN) 2-3 with loop electro-excision procedure (LEEP) performed 6 months after her delivery while she was still breastfeeding. 1.8cm-thick, 2cmwide cervix was resected and diagnosed CIN 1. Two 6-monthly cervical smears were negative for CIN in the presence of transformation zone component. She presented to us 17 months after LEEP for severe lower abdominal pain which required pethidine for relief. She experienced hypomenorrhea with mainly brownish spotting, and intermenstrual spotting and dyspareunia since returning of menses 9 months after LEEP. Physical examination showed cervix was flushed with vault. Transabdominal (TAS) and transvaginal ultrasound scans (TVS) showed enlarged uterine cavity and endocervical canal filled with blood, up to 3.64cm. The clinical diagnosis was haematometra due to cervical stenosis after LEEP.
SYNTHESIS AND INVESTIGATION OF ELECTROCHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF OXIDE Li-CONDUCTIVE MATERIALS WITH SPINEL AND PEROSKITE STRUCTURES
Authors: Mas Hanna , Khomenko Oleksandr , Lisovskyi Ivan , Khomenko Volodymyr , Solopan Sergii , Belous Anatolii
Published: April 2023

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are widely used in electronic devices due to their numerous advantages, namely high energy density, high capacity, and long service life. One of the important components of a battery is the anode. In order to ensure high characteristics of LIB, the anode material must have high capacity, high ionic and electronic conductivities, and low cost. However, commonly used anode materials in lithium-ion batteries have a number of disadvantages. For example, a graphite-based anode is characterized by significant changes in volume during intercalation/deintercalation of lithium ions, high energy losses, and rapid deterioration of characteristics at high discharge/charge rates; Li4Ti5O12 have a low theoretical specific capacity, low electronic conductivity and low diffusion rate of lithium ions.

Thus, the search for anode materials with high capacity and capability rate, as well as small volume change during lithium intercalation/deintercalation, remains an urgent task. A promising way may be the use of materials with intercalation pseudocapacitive behavior of charge accumulation, which occurs due to the intercalation of ions in tunnels or layers of active materials without a crystallographic phase transition. LixLa2/3-x/3TiO3 is well known as a superionic conductor with a high ionic conductivity σ ≈ 10–3 S/cm at room temperature. It crystallizes in a perovskite-type structure that consists of a framework of TiO6 octahedra stabilized by La atoms, and has nume­rous vacancies in the unoccupied positions 18d and 6a, that could participate in the stora­ge and motion of Li ions.

Electrochemical characteristics of LixLa2/3-x/3TiO3 (x = 0.35 and 0.5) anode materials with a perovskite structure were investigated and compared with the electrochemical characteristics of Li4Ti5O12 with a layered spinel structure.
CATALYSIS BY PHOSPHORUS AND SILICON COMPOUNDS IN THE SYNTHESIS OF OXYNAPHTOIC ACID ANILIDES
Authors: Shteinberg Leon
Published: April 2023

Catalysis of the acylation of aniline with 3-­hydroxy-2-naphthoic, 1-hydroxy-2-naphthoic, 2-hydroxy-1-naphthoic and 1-hydroxy-4-naphthoic acids by phosphorus P(III) and silicon Si(IV) compounds leads to the formation anilides of the corresponding hydroxy­naphthoic acids under mild conditions (ortho-xylene, 146.5–147 °C) in almost quantitative yield.

Among P(III) phosphorus trichloride and tribromide; phosphorous, 1-hydroxyethyli­de­ne-di­phos­phonic, pyrophosphorous and me­ta­phos­phorous acids; trimethyl-, dimethyl- and diethylphosphites; phosph(III)azan proved to be active catalysts; among Si(IV) – tri­chloro-(methyl)silane, dichloro(ethyl)silane, dichloro­(dimethyl)silane, tetrachlorosilane and tet­ra­ethoxysilane are active.

The catalysts were used in an amount of only 2% mole. from hydroxynaphthoic acid, which is 15–35 times less than the conventional use of the same compounds as condensing agents in the synthesis of carboxylic acid arylamides. P(V) compounds, thionyl chloride, and sulfuryl chloride practically do not exhibit catalytic activity. The presence of catalytic activity only in P(III) compounds, capable of forming phosphorous acid in the reaction mass, does not contradict to the previously proposed mechanism of P = O-nucleophilic catalysis for the reaction of substituted benzoic acids with aniline catalyzed by PCl3.

In general, the use of P(III) and Si(IV) compounds as catalysts in the preparation of hydroxybenzoic and hydroxynaphthoic acid anilides successfully complements the range of catalysts, based on Ti(IV) compounds, previously used in the formation of substituted benzoic and naphthoic acid anilides (containing no aromatically bonded hydroxy group), allowing to create a universal method for their synthesis.
The effect of problem-based learning on mathematics problem solving ability and self-regulated learning
Authors: Fatimah Dewi , Mairing Jackson Pasini , Wahyuningrum Endang
Published: April 2023

The ability to solve problems and self-regulated learning is particularly important for students, especially in solving mathematical problem which are basic competencies in learning mathematics. The purpose of this study was to describe: (1) the effect of problem-based learning on the ability to solve mathematical problems; (2) the effect of problem-based learning on self-regulated learning. This type of research is experimental research with the research design used pretest posttest control group design. The population of this study were all class X MIPA SMAN Gunung Bintang Awai District. Sampling used multistage random sampling, namely the first stage was to determine the school, namely SMAN 2 Gunung Bintang Awai and the next stage was to determine the group, namely class X MIPA 1 as the experimental group and class X MIPA 2 as the control group. The research instrument was a problem-solving ability test in the form of a description of three items and an independence questionnaire with a Likert scale of ten statement items. Research data were analyzed using the Minitab 19.0 application. The results of the research show that: (1) problem-based learning affects the ability to solve mathematical problems; (2) problem-based learning affects the self-regulated learning.
Permission to Wonder: The Palimpsestic Interplay of H.D. & Freud
Authors: Papa Victoria
Published: April 2023

The modernist writer H.D. was Freud’s analysand in 1933 and 1934 and friend until his death in 1939. This article examines letters, biographies, memoirs, and archival material to trace the interplay between H.D.’s palimpsestic poetics in Trilogy (1973) and Freud’s writing of his last book, Moses and Monotheism (1939) – a work that he was composing throughout the duration of his friendship with the poet. In this book, Freud situates Jewish history as a survival narrative centred on the figure of Moses. Known as one of his most ‘literary’ texts, Moses and Monotheism retraces the life of Moses in a multi-layered narrative that shares in the palimpsestic impulses of H.D.’s writing. This article argues that Freud draws from the revisionist strategies so central to H.D.’s worldview and writerly ethos in order to place creativity and resilience at the heart of Moses and Monotheism.
Electrostatic quantum dark energy in a seven-dimensional universe
Authors: Kesanasetty Sasidhar
Published: April 2023

This paper explains the dark energy and acceleration of the universe by quantizing the space in the hidden dimensions which provides the basis and background for the gravitational force through the curvature of space-time. Space-time is considered to be made of a four-dimensional elastic grid in a seven-dimensional universe in which matter also expands along with the universe. Each cube of the grid is considered a quantum of hidden three-dimensional space of Planck volume containing Planck charge, which makes the universe seven-dimensional. The dark energy is explained by the electrostatic repulsion between the Planck charges in each quantum of the hidden space. Mathematically, this electrostatic repulsion is related to the Hubble constant to explain the accelerated expansion, dark energy, and the increase in cosmological potential energy of the matter.
Goodpasture's Syndrome (GPS): A Nursing Approaches
Authors: Sahaya Rani R. Golda , Swaminathan Aruna
Published: April 2023

Goodpasture syndrome (GPS), also known as anti-glomerular basement membrane disease, which is a rare autoimmune condition. Critical care and advanced practice nurses can play a major role in ensuring positive patient outcomes and eliminating problems, this uncommon autoimmune disorder results in lung haemorrhage, glomerulonephritis, and kidney failure. Circulating antibodies are directed against the collagen of the part of the kidney known as the glomerular basement membrane (GBM). Goodpasture syndrome can result in potentially fatal lung haemorrhage, it commonly does not harm the lungs permanently. Kidney failure is the most devastating side effect of Goodpasture syndrome and may required for dialysis or a kidney transplant. The patient and family need expert nursing care, psychological support, and emotional support to manage this frequently fatal illness.
Facile preparation of toluidine blue-loaded DNA nanogels for anticancer photodynamic therapy
Authors: Guo Hua , Wang Huimin , Deng Hong , Zhang Yiyi , Yang Xue , Zhang Weiqi
Published: April 2023

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) provides an effective therapeutic option for different types of cancer in addition to surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. The treatment outcome of PDT is largely determined by both the light and dark toxicity of photosensitizers (PSs), which can be technically improved with the assistance of a drug delivery system, especially the nanocarriers. Toluidine blue (TB) is a representative PS that demonstrates high PDT efficacy; however, its application is largely limited by the associated dark toxicity. Inspired by TB’s noncovalent binding with nucleic acids, in this study, we demonstrated that DNA nanogel (NG) could serve as an effective TB delivery vehicle to facilitate anticancer PDT. The DNA/TB NG was constructed by the simple self-assembly between TB and short DNA segments using cisplatin as a crosslinker. Compared with TB alone, DNA/TB NG displayed a controlled TB-releasing behavior, effective cellular uptake, and phototoxicity while reducing the dark toxicity in breast cancer cells MCF-7. This DNA/TB NG represented a promising strategy to improve TB-mediated PDT for cancer treatments.
Advanced prodrug strategies in nucleoside analogues targeting the treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies
Authors: Xu Xingxing , Li Zixuan , Yao Xueying , Sun Nannan , Chang Junbiao
Published: April 2023

Gastrointestinal malignancies are common digestive system tumor worldwide. Nucleoside analogues have been widely used as anticancer drugs for the treatment of a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal malignancies. However, low permeability, enzymatic deamination, inefficiently phosphorylation, the emergence of chemoresistance and some other issues have limited its efficacy. The prodrug strategies have been widely applied in drug design to improve pharmacokinetic properties and address safety and drug-resistance issues. This review will provide an overview of the recent developments of prodrug strategies in nucleoside analogues for the treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies.
The activity of methylene blue against asexual and sexual stages of Plasmodium vivax
Authors: Fabbri Camila , Quaresma Ramos Glenda , Clarys Baia-da-Silva Djane , Oliveira Trindade Alexandre , Carlos Salazar-Alvarez Luis , Costa Ferreira Neves Juliana , Santos Bastos Ivanildes dos , Guimarães Costa Allyson , Vinicius Guimarães Lacerda Marcus , Marcelo Monteiro Wuelton , Trindade Maranhão Costa Fabio , Costa Pinto Lopes Stefanie
Published: April 2023

Methylene blue (MB) is an alternative for combating drug-resistant malaria parasites. Its transmission-blocking potential has been demonstrated in vivo in murine models, in vitro, and in clinical trials. MB shows high efficacy against Plasmodium vivax asexual stages; however, its efficacy in sexual stages is unknown. In this study, we evaluated the potential of MB against asexual and sexual forms of P. vivax isolated from the blood of patients residing in the Brazilian Amazon. An ex vivo schizont maturation assay, zygote to ookinete transformation assay, direct membrane feed assay (DMFA), and standard membrane feed assay (SMFA) using P. vivax gametocytes with MB exposure were performed. A cytotoxicity assay was also performed on freshly collected peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and the hepatocyte carcinoma cell line HepG2. MB inhibited the P. vivax schizont maturation and demonstrated an IC50 lower than that of chloroquine (control drug). In the sexual forms, the MB demonstrated a high level of inhibition in the transformation of the zygotes into ookinetes. In the DMFA, MB did not considerably affect the infection rate and showed low inhibition, but it demonstrated a slight decrease in the infection intensity in all tested concentrations. In contrast, in the SMFA, MB was able to completely block the transmission at the highest concentration (20 µM). MB demonstrated low cytotoxicity to fresh PBMCs but demonstrated higher cytotoxicity to the hepatocyte carcinoma cell line HepG2. These results show that MB may be a potential drug for vivax malaria treatment.
The gut microbiome: A line of defense against tuberculosis development
Authors: Yu Ziqi , Shen Xiang , Wang Aiyao , Hu Chong , Chen Jianyong
Published: April 2023

The tuberculosis (TB) burden remains a significant global public health concern, especially in less developed countries. While pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB) is the most common form of the disease, extrapulmonary tuberculosis, particularly intestinal TB (ITB), which is mostly secondary to PTB, is also a significant issue. With the development of sequencing technologies, recent studies have investigated the potential role of the gut microbiome in TB development. In this review, we summarized studies investigating the gut microbiome in both PTB and ITB patients (secondary to PTB) compared with healthy controls. Both PTB and ITB patients show reduced gut microbiome diversity characterized by reduced Firmicutes and elevated opportunistic pathogens colonization; Bacteroides and Prevotella were reported with opposite alteration in PTB and ITB patients. The alteration reported in TB patients may lead to a disequilibrium in metabolites such as short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, which may recast the lung microbiome and immunity via the “gut-lung axis”. These findings may also shed light on the colonization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in the gastrointestinal tract and the development of ITB in PTB patients. The findings highlight the crucial role of the gut microbiome in TB, particularly in ITB development, and suggest that probiotics and postbiotics might be useful supplements in shaping a balanced gut microbiome during TB treatment.
Arrhythmic mitral valve prolapse in 2023: Evidence-based update
Authors: Kubala Maciej , Essayagh Benjamin , Michelena Hector I. , Enriquez-Sarano Maurice , Tribouilloy Christophe
Published: April 2023

Patients with mitral valve prolapse (MVP) may develop ventricular arrhythmias, ranging from premature ventricular contractions through more complex non-sustained ventricular tachycardia to sustained life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias. The prevalence of MVP in autopsy series of young adults who died suddenly has been estimated to be between 4% and 7%. Thus, “arrhythmic MVP” has been reported as an underappreciated cause of sudden cardiac death, leading to a renewed interest in the study of this association. The term “arrhythmic MVP” refers to a small subset of patients who have, in the absence of any other arrhythmic substrate, MVP, with or without mitral annular disjunction, and frequent or complex ventricular arrhythmias. Our understanding of their coexistence in terms of contemporary management and prognosis is still incomplete. While literature regarding the arrhythmic MVP may be contrasting despite recent consensus document, the present review summarizes the relevant evidence concerning the diagnostic approach, prognostic implications, and targeted therapies for MVP-related ventricular arrhythmias. We also summarize recent data supporting left ventricular remodeling, which complicates the coexistence of MVP with ventricular arrhythmias. As the evidence for a putative link between MVP-associated ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death is scarce and based on scant and retrospective data, risk prediction remains a challenge. Thus, we aimed at listing potential risk factors from available seminal reports for further use in a more reliable prediction model that requires additional prospective data. Finally, we summarize evidence and guidelines on targeted therapies of ventricular arrhythmias in the setting of MVP, including implantable cardioverter defibrillators and catheter ablation. Our review highlights current knowledge gaps and provides an action plan for structured research on the pathophysiological genesis, diagnosis, prognostic impact, and optimal management of patients with arrhythmic MVP.
Phospholamban R14del disease: The past, the present and the future
Authors: Vafiadaki Elizabeth , Glijnis Pieter C. , Doevendans Pieter A. , Kranias Evangelia G. , Sanoudou Despina
Published: April 2023

Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy affects significant number of patients worldwide and is characterized by life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Mutations in multiple genes with diverse functions have been reported to date including phospholamban (PLN), a key regulator of sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ homeostasis and cardiac contractility. The PLN-R14del variant in specific is recognized as the cause in an increasing number of patients worldwide, and extensive investigations have enabled rapid advances towards the delineation of PLN-R14del disease pathogenesis and discovery of an effective treatment. We provide a critical overview of current knowledge on PLN-R14del disease pathophysiology, including clinical, animal model, cellular and biochemical studies, as well as diverse therapeutic approaches that are being pursued. The milestones achieved in <20 years, since the discovery of the PLN R14del mutation (2006), serve as a paradigm of international scientific collaboration and patient involvement towards finding a cure.
Envelope extraction algorithm for magnetic resonance sounding signals based on adaptive local iterative filtering
Authors: Tian Baofeng , Sun Chao , Liu Longchang , Lin Yue-Der , Chiu Chuang-Chien , Duan Haoyu , Luan Hui
Published: April 2023

Magnetic resonance sounding (MRS) is a geophysical method that can determine groundwater content directly and quantitatively. However, as MRS uses the Earth’s magnetic field as the background field, MRS signals are weak and cannot be shielded. Reliably extracting MRS signals in a strong noise environment is difficult. In this study, a data processing scheme using the adaptive local iterative filtering (ALIF) algorithm is proposed to extract MRS signal envelopes accurately. Based on the uncertainty of the initial amplitude and relaxation time, the decomposition order and mask coefficient of the ALIF algorithm are selected via traversal. Simulation results show that in the case of Gaussian noise and power frequency harmonic noise, the ALIF algorithm can reliably extract the MRS signal envelopes, and the correlation coefficient between the extracted and noiseless envelopes is 0.97. Under various noise types, amplitudes, and relaxation times, the average SNR increases by 30 dB∼42 dB. The ALIF algorithm is also suitable for extracting multi-exponential MRS signal envelopes. A comparative analysis between harmonic modeling cancellation and ensemble empirical mode decomposition shows the superiority of the ALIF algorithm, and the processing of the field data further verifies the effectiveness and practicability of the algorithm.
Properties and environmental impact of building foundation pit backfilling materials containing iron and steel solid waste
Authors: Zhang Hongze , Qi Yang , Jing Jianlin , Wang Changlong , Zhou Yongxiang , Zhang Kaifan , Zheng Yongchao , Zhai Yuxin , Liu Feng
Published: April 2023

Introduction: In order to promote the comprehensive utilization of iron and steel solid waste, steel slag (SS), granulated blast furnace slag (GBFS), and flue gas desulfurization gypsum (FGDG) were used as raw materials to replace cement to prepare the full solid waste premixed solidified agent (PSA). Then PSA, iron ore tailings (IOTs), and water were mixed to prepare building foundation pit backfilling materials (BFPBM).

Methods: Various tests were conducted to investigate the effects of SS fineness, SS content and mixing ratio of PSA on the properties of PFPBM, including mechanical property test, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) and synthetic precipitation leaching procedure (SPLP). The stability of the BFPBM was tested and the hydration mechanism of the PSA was analyzed.

Results: The results show that when the specific surface area (SSA) of SS is 457 m2ˑkg-1, the paste mass concentration (PMC) is 79%, the mixing ratio of PSA is 20%, and the mix proportion of PSA is SS: FGDG: GBFS = 58:10:32. In this case, water-reducing agent (WRA) accounting for 0.18% of the total amount of PSA is added. The 28d compressive strength of BFPBM is greater than 0.40 MPa with the maximum value of 6.22 MPa, and the mixture slump of BFPBM is greater than 215 mm, which meets the index requirements of Chinese National Standard T/CECS 1037-2022 Technical Standard for Backfilling Project by Using Premixed Fluidized Solidified Soil.

Discussion: According to the mechanism study, the mineral phases of the PSA after hydration are: C2S, C3S, Ca (OH)2, ettringite (AFT), C-S-H gel, and RO phase. C2S, C3S, CaSO4 and other substances gradually disappeared with the hydration, while the content of AFt and C-S-H gel substances increased. BFPBM prepared from iron and steel waste has high strength and environmental friendliness, making it have good application prospects in foundation pit backfilling and mine filling.
Unraveling the relation between representational competence and conceptual knowledge across four samples from two different countries
Authors: Edelsbrunner Peter Adriaan , Hofer Sarah Isabelle
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Whereas it is commonly assumed that in learning science, representational competence is a critical prerequisite for the acquisition of conceptual knowledge, comprehensive psychometric investigations of this assumption are rare. We undertake a step in this direction by re-analyzing the data from a recent study that found a substantial correlation between the two constructs in undergraduates in the context of field representations and electromagnetism.

Methods

We re-analyze the data (N = 515 undergraduate students; Mage = 21.81, SDage = 4.04) to examine whether the relation between representational competence and conceptual knowledge, both measured with psychometrically validated test instruments, is similar or varies between four samples from two countries. To this end, we will employ correlational analysis and scatter plots. Employing these methods, we will examine whether a positive relation between representational competence and conceptual knowledge can be found and is of similar magnitude in all samples. We will also employ multiple-group latent profile analysis to examine how the more detailed association between the two constructs varies or is similar across samples. Finally, we will examine how commonalities and differences between samples relate to aspects of learners’ gender, topic-specific learning opportunities, and individual preferences for specific learning content. The aim is to unravel the generalizability of this relation and thereby derive hypotheses for potential moderating factors that can be further examined in future research.
Executive summary: Italian guidelines for diagnosis, risk stratification, and care continuity of fragility fractures 2021
Authors: Corrao Giovanni , Biffi Annalisa , Porcu Gloria , Ronco Raffaella , Adami Giovanni , Alvaro Rosaria , Bogini Riccardo , Caputi Achille Patrizio , Cianferotti Luisella , Frediani Bruno , Gatti Davide , Gonnelli Stefano , Iolascon Giovanni , Lenzi Andrea , Leone Salvatore , Michieli Raffaella , Migliaccio Silvia , Nicoletti Tiziana , Paoletta Marco , Pennini Annalisa , Piccirilli Eleonora , Rossini Maurizio , Tarantino Umberto , Brandi Maria Luisa
Published: April 2023

Background

Fragility fractures are a major public health concern owing to their worrying and growing burden and their onerous burden upon health systems. There is now a substantial body of evidence that individuals who have already suffered a fragility fracture are at a greater risk for further fractures, thus suggesting the potential for secondary prevention in this field.

Purpose

This guideline aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for recognizing, stratifying the risk, treating, and managing patients with fragility fracture. This is a summary version of the full Italian guideline.

Methods

The Italian Fragility Fracture Team appointed by the Italian National Health Institute was employed from January 2020 to February 2021 to (i) identify previously published systematic reviews and guidelines on the field, (ii) formulate relevant clinical questions, (iii) systematically review literature and summarize evidence, (iv) draft the Evidence to Decision Framework, and (v) formulate recommendations.

Results

Overall, 351 original papers were included in our systematic review to answer six clinical questions. Recommendations were categorized into issues concerning (i) frailty recognition as the cause of bone fracture, (ii) (re)fracture risk assessment, for prioritizing interventions, and (iii) treatment and management of patients experiencing fragility fractures. Six recommendations were overall developed, of which one, four, and one were of high, moderate, and low quality, respectively.

Conclusions

The current guidelines provide guidance to support individualized management of patients experiencing non-traumatic bone fracture to benefit from secondary prevention of (re)fracture. Although our recommendations are based on the best available evidence, questionable quality evidence is still available for some relevant clinical questions, so future research has the potential to reduce uncertainty about the effects of intervention and the reasons for doing so at a reasonable cost.