bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Damas de blanco: Emily Dickinson y Blanca Varela conversan
Authors: Muñoz Carrasco Olga
Published: April 2024

Blanca Varela read Emily Dickinson, admired her, and dedicated to her “Dama de blanco”, a poem from her last published book, El falso teclado (2001). From this explicit presence we propose here a dialogue between both voices, not so much to search traces of the Amherst writer's work in the Peruvian poet as to linger on the possible areas of contact between their poetics: a first coincidence more anecdotally vital, a certain deep and common harmony in the compositional consciousness of the poem, the always extremely significant mention of color ―especially white in relation to black―, and the nebulous and ghostly condition that is established between their work.

Blanca Varela leyó a Emily Dickinson, la admiró y le dedicó “Dama de blanco”, un poema perteneciente a su último libro publicado, El falso teclado (2001). A partir de esta presencia explícita se propone aquí un diálogo entre ambas voces, no tanto para rastrear en la peruana trazas de la obra de la escritora de Amherst como para demorarnos en las posibles zonas de contacto entre sus poéticas: una primera coincidencia más anecdóticamente vital; cierta sintonía profunda y común en la conciencia compositiva del poema; la mención siempre extremadamente significativa del color ―en especial del blanco en relación con el negro―, y la condición nebulosa y fantasmal que se establece entre la palabra de ambas.
Formas del fin del mundo en la literatura y la cultura latinoamericanas
Authors: Ruiz Pérez Nieves
Published: April 2024

Reseña de Formas del fin del mundo: crisis, ecología y distopías en la literatura y la cultura latinoamericanas (2023), Ángel Esteban (ed.), editorial Peter Lang. ISBN: 978-2-8076-1930-2.
Electronic Procurement Practices and Performance of Logistics Firms in Nairobi City County,Kenya
Authors: Hassan Amina Abdullahi , Nyang’au Samson Paul
Published: April 2024

The general objective of this study was to   examine the relationship between e-procurement practices and performance of logistic firms in Nairobi County. The study was guided by the following specific objectives: to ascertain how E-tendering affects performance of logistics firms in Nairobi County, to determine the effect of E-invoicing in the performance of logistics firms in Nairobi County, to what extent E-Payment affect performance of logistics firms in Nairobi County and finally to establish how E-sourcing affect performance of logistics firms in Nairobi County. The study used descriptive design because it enhanced systematic description that is as accurate, valid and reliable as possible regarding the responses. The study was limited to 8 selected logistic firms in Nairobi County. Being an academic study, the period to be covered was 6 months. This study utilized a sample size of 54 respondents. The use of 54 respondents in the study was justified as it was in line with the recommendations of Mugenda and Mugenda who indicated that a descriptive study should include at least 30% of the total population. Since the sample size of 54 represented 30% of the population it was deemed appropriate. The researcher used questionnaires and secondary data as the research instrument to gather the relevant information needed related to the study. The study involved use of professionals and experts to test the validity of questionnaire by trying to assess what concept the instrument is trying to measure and the accuracy of representation of the concept under research. The quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. In addition, the study used multiple regression analysis to analyze the data. Regarding E-tendering, the study established that E-tendering had a significant and positive effect on the performance of logistic firms in Nairobi County. The study also established that E-invoicing had a significant and positive effect on the performance of logistic firms in Nairobi County. The study further established that E-Payment had significant and a positive effect on the performance of logistic firms in Nairobi County. The study finally established that E-sourcing had significant and a positive effect on the performance of logistic firms in Nairobi County.
Globalization with Economic Security and “Glocalization”
Authors: Papava Vladimer Papava
Published: April 2024

The Covid–19 pandemic and Russia’s war in Ukraine, as well as the economic sanctions imposed by the West against Russia, have radically changed the decades-old, established world system of globalization.
Potential Effects of Anthocyanin on Depression: A Review
Authors: Kurtbeyoglu Emine , Akduman Gül , Yüksel Fatma , Usta Heybet Seher , Dinçoğlu Ahmet Hulusi
Published: April 2024

Nutrition is helpful in preventing depression and reducing its symptoms in depressed patients. This is because when the pathophysiology of depression is examined, deficiencies in certain nutrients are observed. Oxidative stress is also known to cause inflammation, which can contribute to the pathophysiology of the disease. We examined the effectiveness of anthocyanin, which is known to be an antioxidant, on depression. Related articles were searched in the Web of Science database. The combinations of the following terms were used for the search: “Anthocyanidin” OR “Anthocyanidins” OR “Anthocyanin” OR “Leucoanthocyanidins” AND “depression”. 71 abstracts were reviewed, 55 full-text articles were examined, and 7 papers met all of the inclusion criteria. According to these studies, anthocyanin may offer protection against depression and can alleviate its symptoms. Oxidative stress and deterioration in neurogenesis are the mechanisms behind inflammation. Various human, animal, and in vitro studies demonstrate that anthocyanins possess strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Comparison of Total Intravenous Anesthesia with Inhaler Anesthesia in Children Intubated with Remifentanil without Muscle Relaxant
Authors: Gökçe Recep , Hakimoğlu Sedat
Published: April 2024

Objective: The effects of remifentanil and muscle relaxant-free intubation as well as total intravenous anesthesia and inhaled anesthesia for tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy in children were compared.

Materials and Methods: The study was conducted on 80 patients who were to undergo tonsillectomy and/or adenoidectomy between December 2014 and June 2015. Patients were randomized and divided into two groups. In the total intravenous anaesthesia group, 2.5 mg/kg propofol and 2 mcg/kg remifentanil were administered as induction within 90 seconds. In this group, 3 mg/kg/h propofol and 0.5 mcg/kg/min remifentanil were used for maintenance of anesthesia. In the sevoflurane group, 8% sevoflurane and 2 mcg/kg remifentanil were administered as induction within 90 seconds. In this group, 2.5% sevoflurane, 50% nitrogen protoxide and 50% oxygen were used at 6 l/min for maintenance of anesthesia.

Results: Peak heart rate and systolic arterial pressure were significantly higher in Group I. Diastolic arterial pressure was significantly higher in Group T at 1 and 2 minutes after intubation and in Group 2 at 10 minutes postoperatively. Mean arterial pressure was higher in Group T at 2 minutes after intubation. In addition, Wong-Baker pain scale and agitation score were significantly higher in Group I. Spontaneous respiration and extubation time were significantly shorter in Group I. There was no difference between the groups in terms of side effects.

Conclusion: Group total intravenous anaesthesia was thought to be a better choice in children because it had less impact on postoperative pain, agitation and recovery.
Larinks Skuamöz Hücreli Karsinomlarının Nüks ve Sağkalımında p16 Ekspresyonunun Rolü
Authors: Özkavruk Eliyatkın Nuket , Bayrak Asuman Feda , Kılıç Hacer Sena , İşlek Akif
Published: April 2024

Amaç: Larinks karsinomlarında en sık görülen histolojik tip skuamöz hücreli karsinomdur. Son yıllarda temel nedensel faktörler arasında insan papilloma virüsü (Human Papilloma Virüs, HPV)’nün de etkili olabileceği bildirilmektedir. HPV enfeksiyonunu tanımlamada immunohistokimyasal olarak p16 proteini değerlendirilmektedir. Bu çalışmanın amacı, laringeal skuamöz hücreli karsinom hastalarında uzun süreli genel sağkalım, hastalıksız sağkalım ve hastalığa özgü hastalıksız sağkalım üzerindeki p16 ekspresyonunun prognostik rolünü değerlendirmektir.

Gereç ve Yöntem: Bu çalışmada 2013-2015 yılları arasında larinks skuamöz hücreli karsinom tanısı alan hastalar elektronik ortam verilerinden kayıt edildi ve arşiv preparatları yeniden değerlendirildi. Yeterli tümör dokusu içeren ve parafin bloklarına ulaşılan hastalar çalışmaya dahil edildi. Demografik veriler, histopatolojik bulgular, tümör nüksü, sağkalım takipleri değerlendirildi. Tanıtıcı tümör alanlarını içeren doku örneklerinde p16 immunohistokimyasal boyaması yapıldı. p16 boyama yoğunluğu negatif (0), zayıf (1), orta (2) veya güçlü (3) olarak değerlendirildi. Tüm klinikopatolojik parametreler ile p16 arasındaki ilişki değerlendirildi.

Bulgular: Evre T4 kanseri olan hastaların oranı T3 evresine göre anlamlı olarak daha sık p16 negatif olarak saptandı. Hastalıksız sağkalım ve toplam sağkalım p16 durumundan (4 grup) etkilenmedi. Ancak p16 durumu pozitif ve negatif olarak ele alındığında, p16 durumunun hastalıksız sağkalıma etkisi için saptanan p değeri anlamlılık sınırında saptandı.

Sonuç: p16 ekspresyonu ile ilgili olarak literatürde çok farklı sonuçlar vardır. Biz tam sağkalım ile p16 ekspresyonu arasında bir ilişki bulduk. Yeni büyük seriler ile yapılacak çalışmalara ihtiyaç vardır.
Probiyotiklerin Türleri, Etki Mekanizmaları ve Metabolik Etkileri: Güncel Bir Bakış
Authors: İduğ Tuğba , Hızlı Güldemir Hilal
Published: April 2024

Probiyotikler insanlarda özellikle bağırsak mikrobiyal dengesini düzenleyerek sağlık üzerine olumlu etkiler gösterir. Probiyotikler, yeterli miktarda tüketildiğinde konakçıya sağlık açısından fayda sağlayan canlı mikroorganizmalardır. Probiyotik olarak kullanılan mikroorganizmalar çeşitlilik gösterse de en önemli grubunu Lactobacillus ve Bifidobacterium türleri oluşturur. Probiyotikler patojen bakterilerin sayısını azaltmak için epitel yüzeye tutunma, kolonizasyon, bağışıklığı düzenleme, mikrobiyom modülasyonu, bağırsak epitel bariyer fonksiyonun iyileştirilmesi ve antimikrobiyal etki gösterme gibi mekanizmalar üzerinden etkilerini gösterir. Beklenen etki bir veya birkaç mekanizmanın birlikte çalışmasıyla ortaya çıkar. Probiyotik mikroorganizmaların patojen özellik göstermeme, safra tuzlarına direnç, epitel yüzeye tutunma ve gastrointestinal sistemde kolonize olabilme, immünmodülasyon, metabolik etki kabiliyeti ve teknolojik süreçlere dayanıklılık gibi özelliklere sahip olmaları gerekir. Probiyotiklerin etki mekanizmalarından bazıları aydınlatılmış olsa da gösterdikleri birçok biyolojik aktivitenin mekanizmaları tam olarak anlaşılamamıştır. Bu nedenle daha kapsamlı çalışmalar yapılarak araştırılmaların artırılmasına ihtiyaç duyulmaktadır.
کیهان وارونه
Authors: طاهری محمدعلی
Published: April 2024

مدل بیگ‏‏ بنگ در کیهان شناسی رایج پذیرفته شده ترین مدل در مورد تولد جهان می باشد که بر دو فرض اساسی استوار است. یکی نظریۀ نسبیت عام انیشتین که تعامل گرانشی ماده با فضا-زمان را توصیف می کند و دیگری اصل کیهان شناسی است که بیان می کند، ناظری که جهان را مشاهده می کند با همگنی و همسانگردی آن مواجه خواهد شد؛ به این معنا که جهان هیچ لبه ای ندارد. مطابق این مدل، نباید در یک نقطۀ خاص به دنبال منشأ انفجار بزرگ بود، بلکه این انفجار در سراسر کیهان به طور همزمان به وقوع پیوسته است. طی تحول مدل های مختلف کیهان شناختی، مدل استاندارد کیهان شناسی Lambda-CDM)a) نیز فرض می کند که جهان شامل سه جزء اصلی است: 1- ثابت کیهانی مرتبط با انرژی تاریک، 2-ماده تاریک سرد، 3-ماده معمولی، از دیدگاه کیهانشناسان، این مدل تفسیر کلی برای طیف وسیعی از پدیده های مشاهده شده از جمله فراوانی عناصر سبک، تابش پس زمینۀ کیهانی و ساختارهای بزرگ مقیاس در کیهان را ارائه می دهد. با این حال، همچنان جنبه هایی از جهان مشاهده شده وجود دارد که در حال حاضر چالش هایی را سبب شده که توسط مدل بیگ بنگ توضیح داده نشده است. در راستای پاسخ به این چالش ها، «کیها ن شناسی شعوری » با ارائه فرضیات متعدد، نه تنها زاویۀ تفسیری جدیدی را نسبت به رفتار و عملکرد اجزاءِ کیهان ارائه می دهد، بلکه اظهار می دارد که آخرین مدل های کیهان شناسی دارای پارادوکس هایی نسبت به رصدهای انجام شده می باشند. کیهان شناسی شعوری اظهار می دارد که اگر مدل های رایج کیهان شناسی را بپذیریم، بنابراین با تظاهرات غیرمنطقیِ کیهانِ در حالِ انبساط مواجه هستیم. در این مبحث، از دیدگاه کیهان شناسی شعوری دلایل متعددی تحت عنوان «کیهان وارونه » مطرح می شود که با سوالهایی همچون افقِ ابهامِ تراکمِ ماده و انرژی، افق ابهام حرارتی، افق بی زمانی و غیره...، برخی از تفاسیر مدل استاندارد کیهان شناسی رایج یا آخرین مدل بیگ بنگ در مورد منشاء جهان، شکل هندسی آن و مراحلی که برای انبساط کیهان مورد پذیرش عموم کیهان شناسان قرار گرفته است را به چالش می کشد.
a - Lambda-Cold Dark Matter
Role of Specific Playing Position on Various Anthropometric, Body Composition and Physical Fitness Parameters of Indian Male Sepak Takraw Players
Authors: Sarkar Surojit , Dasgupta Suvam , Chatterjee Subhra , Meitei K Kosana , Bandyopadhyay Amit , Dey Swapan Kumar
Published: April 2024

Background: Anthropometric and physiologic properties have influence on exercise performance in sepak takraw and physiological profiles of athletes differ between sports and playing positions. Objectives: Present study was aimed to determine the effect of playing position on anthropometric, body composition and physical fitness parameters in young male sepak takraw players. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted on three positional groups of total 44 male Indian sepak takraw players (spiker/killer, n = 14; tekong, n = 14; and feeder, n = 16) of national level. Anthropometric parameters, body composition profile, physical fitness variables including 30m flying, 6X10m shuttle run, vertical jump, sit up, endurance and anaerobic power were assessed by following standard protocols. Results: Significant differences were observed in height, weight and leg length among the positional groups. Almost all body composition parameters were significantly (P < 0.01) higher among ‘tekong’ position except fat mass. Handgrip strength, back strength, vertical jump, sit up, VO2max, explosive leg power and maximum anaerobic power were found to be significantly differed among the three positional groups of sepak takraw. Regression prediction model identified back strength (P = 0.034), peak explosive power (P < 0.001) and leg length (P < 0.001) as the significant predictor of vertical jump (R2 = 0.930 and P < 0.001). Conclusions: Players of ‘tekong’ position were better in anthropometric and body composition profiles than ‘spiker and feeder’. Whereas, ‘spiker’ position was found to have higher back strength, explosive power, vertical jump and sit up abilities. Regression model identifies back strength, peak explosive power and leg length as the significant predictors of performance in sepak takraw.
Effects of Melatonin on Neurological Function and Maintenance of Physical and Motor Fitness in Collegiate Student-Athletes Following Sleep Deprivation
Authors: Paryab Nesa , Taheri Morteza , Irandoust Kahdijeh , Mirmoezzi Masoud
Published: April 2024

Background: Melatonin is one of the Supplements used to treat sleep problems such as insomnia and jet lag. Objectives: Since sleep deprivation may affect athletic performance, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of melatonin on neurological function and maintenance of physical and motor fitness in collegiate student-athletes following sleep deprivation. Methods: Ten collegiate student-athletes participated in randomized, double‐blind crossover trial with placebo control. Subjects were divided into six experimental groups: without sleep deprivation (WSD), 4 hours sleep deprivation (4HSD) and 24 hours sleep deprivation (24HSD) with melatonin (MEL) or placebo (PLA). WSD were allowed to sleep eight hours per night. Six milligrams of melatonin was administered 30 min before the training protocols. Training protocols included the Wingate Anaerobic test, Good Balance test, Vienna reaction time with the Stroop test. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Significant difference was set at P ≤ 0.05. Results: Six mg/day of MEL 30 min before training had no significant effect on anaerobic power, balance and reaction time in collegiate student-athletes WSD (P > 0.05). Although, 4HSD and 24HSD negatively affected balance function, MEL reduced its negative effects. Furthermore, 24HSD decrease neurological and physical performance in collegiate student-athletes and MEL improved anaerobic power and reaction time in collegiate student-athletes (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Pre-training MEL supplementation would alleviate neurological, physical and motor performance impairment in collegiate student-athletes following sleep deprivation. MEL appears to be more effective in athletes with longer sleep deprivation.
Is Mental Toughness Related with Motor Learning in Wrestling?
Authors: Ranjbar Sadegh , Akbarnejad Ali , Alizadeh Ashkan , Fadakar Ali
Published: April 2024

Background: In sport context learning a skill, and performing it flawlessly is of great importance. There is a unanimous consensus among sport scientists, coaches, and athletes, that along with physical, technical and tactical skills, psychological skills are also necessary for an optimal sport performance. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of mental toughness in motor learning and sport performance in wrestling. Methods: This study was semi-experimental and its population were physical education students of the University of Tehran in 2018. Using intensive sampling method, 28 student-athletes, who never had any past wrestling skill practices, were selected. Subsequently, using Mental Toughness-48 questionnaires, they were divided into two equal groups of high and low in mental toughness. After that, all participants were randomly assigned into two groups of equal size and 30 wrestling skills were taught to them twice a week for 3 months by two professional wrestling coaches. Their motor learning was assessed by three other professional coaches in the last week of training and one week after the last session. Motor learning score was obtained by calculating the mean scores of acquisition and retention stages. Then, two groups with high and low levels of mental toughness were compared regarding their motor learning scores. Tools used in this study included demographic consent form, wrestling skills test and The Mental Toughness Questionnaire-48 (MTQ 48). Results: The results suggested that mentally tough student-athletes demonstrated significantly higher motor learning scores compared with their counterparts who had lower levels of mental toughness (P ≤ 0/05). This advantage was persistent both in the acquisition and retention stages (P ≤ 0/05). Conclusions: It was concluded that mental toughness could be considered as a key factor in motor learning. Therefore, it is recommended to coaches and athletes to develop mental toughness in order to enhance motor learning and achieve successful performance.
Effect of 12-Week Aerobic Exercise Training on Chemokine Ligands and Their Relative Receptors in Balb/C Mice with Breast Cancer
Authors: Esmailiyan Mehrnoosh , Nobari Hadi , Kargarfard Mehdi , Amerizadeh Atefeh , Esfarjani Fahimeh , Vaseghi Golnaz , Badicu Georgian , Prieto González Pablo , Ardigo Luca Paolo
Published: April 2024

Background: Some chemokines like C C motif chemokine ligand (CCL) 2 and 5 and their receptors (CCR) 2 and 5 are mediators of chronic inflammation and cancer development. Moreover, physical exercise can increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes. However, its effect on cancer cells has not been reported at present. Objectives: Therefore, the present study aimed to ascertain the effect of 12-week aerobic exercise training (AET) on CCL2, CCR2, CCL5, and CCR5 in mice with breast cancer. Methods: Sixteen Balb/c mice aged 4 - 5 weeks (n = 16; approximate weight: 18 ± 2 g) were divided into two groups: AET group (AETG) and control group (CG) (n = 8 per group). The AETG performed 12-week treadmill running at 18 m/min for 40 min and five times a week. Plasma levels of CCL2 and CCL5 were measured by ELISA, and the CCR2 and CCR5 were evaluated by Western blotting. Two independent sample t-test was applied to compare the differences between AETG and CG. Results: The analysis displayed after 12 weeks showed a significant reduction in AETG compared to CG in CCL2 (3.94 ± 1.12 vs. 15.40 ± 3.29 pg/mL; P = 0.001), CCR2 (0.56 ± 0.19 vs. 1.00 ± 0.001; P = 0.002), CCL5 (138.59 ± 15.72 vs. 267.57 ± 49.06 ng/mL; P = 0.001) and CCR5 (0.36 ± 0.12 vs. 1.00 ± 0.001; P = 0.001), respectively. Conclusions: We concluded that one of the main mechanisms of a positive effect of exercise on breast cancer is reducing the inflammation via CCL2 and CCL5 and their related receptors CCR2 and CCR5, respectively. Since these molecules can be triggered off oxidative stress and tumorigenesis, these results can pave the way for further studies in this field.
Anthropometric and Physical Profile Among the Different Age Groups of Tunisian Tennis Players
Authors: Meflah Alshahrani Saeed , Salem Atef , Zribi Anis , Trabelsi Khaled , Ammar Achraf , Chtourou Hamdi
Published: April 2024

Background: The popularity of Tunisian tennis is on the rise, due to emerging players gaining global recognition, leading to growth and evolution in the sport. In order to optimize training and performance, coaches need valuable information on physical fitness and player profiling. Objectives: The study aimed to investigate the physical profile of Tunisian tennis players in different age groups ranging from 7 to 17 years. Methods: One hundred and one tennis players from the same team were assigned to six age groups (U9-U18); U9 (7.89 ± 0.32), U10 (8.88 ± 0.34), U11 (9.78 ± 0.43), U12 (10.81 ± 0.4), U14 (12.3 ± 0.73), and U18 (14.69 ± 0.95) and were assessed for standing long jump (SLJ), countermovement jump, medicine ball throw (MBT), various sprint distances, agility drills, 20m Shuttle run (20mSRT), and Sit and reach tests. Results: The results showed that U14 and U18 age groups demonstrated better performance than U9 and U10 in jump tests, while U18 and U14 outperformed only U9 in the MBT test. U11 showed better performance than U9 and U10 in sprints, sideways shuffle, and spider drill tests. U9 and U10 had lower performance than U12 in SLJ, 20m sprint, sideways shuffle, and zigzag tests, and U11 outperformed U9 in the SLJ test. U18 and U14 had higher VO2max than U10 and U11, while U12 was higher than U11 only. No difference in flexibility was reported. The centile estimates of physical performances among Tunisian tennis players provide a means to compare individual player test results with the standard performance levels of the group. Conclusions: In conclusion, this study found that 11–17-year-old players exhibited greater physical performance than 7–10-year-old players. However, no age effect was found for flexibility.
The Impact of Different Attentional Focus Strategies During Modeling on the Acquisition and Retention of Free Throws in Basketball
Authors: Rezaei Marjansadat , Hatami Farzaneh , Lotfi Gholamreza
Published: April 2024

Background: In recent years, coaches and athletes have increasingly used observation as a tool for teaching and learning sports skills. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of modeling, using internal and external attentional focus strategies, on the acquisition and retention of free throw shooting in basketball. Methods: Forty-five female beginner basketball players (aged 21.62 ± 3.08 years, with a BMI of 23.48 ± 0.99 kg/m2) voluntarily participated in this study. Based on their pre-test scores using the ABBA method, they were divided into three groups: One group received modeling with an internal attention focus strategy, another group received modeling with an external attention focus strategy, and a control group. A video demonstrating the correct throwing technique was used to teach the attention-focusing strategies, and the groups did not receive any physical training. After watching the video, participants performed their own throwing attempts. Following group allocation, the participants entered the acquisition phase, which consisted of six sessions, with each session including two sets of ten attempts and a 2-minute rest period between sets. One-way analysis of variance was used for both immediate and delayed recall tests, and data analysis was conducted using SPSS 20 software.” Results: The study found a significant difference in free throw performance between the three modeling groups (internal attention focus, external attention focus, and control) during both the acquisition and delayed retention stages (P ≤ 0.05). Additionally, there was a significant difference in basketball free throw performance between the three modeling groups during the recall test (P ≤ 0.05). Conclusions: Overall, the results suggest that observational learning, combined with attentional focus strategies, is an effective method for improving skill acquisition and retention in basketball.
The Impact of Resistance Training on IL-6, TNF-a, and CRP Levels in the Elderly: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Study
Authors: Rahman Rahimi Mohammad , Mehrwand Zanyar
Published: April 2024

Background: Inflammatory markers have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases including atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, and heart failure in the elderly individuals. Resistance exercises are one effective method to manage inflammation in this population. Objectives: This meta-analysis aimed to explore the impact of resistance training on inflammatory markers in the elderly. Methods: All randomized controlled clinical trials (from 2004 to 2023) that examined the effect of resistance training on tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and C-reactive protein (CRP) in individuals over 50 years old were selected through a systematic search of PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science and SID databases, that out of 600 studies identified, 31 met the inclusion criteria for our analysis. Random and fixed effects models, along with the I2 heterogeneity test, Egger test, and funnel plot, were used to determine publication bias using CMA2 software. The effect size (ES) was reported in terms of the standard mean difference (SMD) and a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: The meta-analysis results indicated that resistance training significantly reduced CRP (ES = -0.49, 95% CI = -0.34 to -0.64, P = 0.001) and IL-6 (ES = -0.27, 95% CI = -0.41 to -0.13, P = 0.001) levels. However, it did not have a significant effect on TNF-α levels (ES = -0.22, 95% CI = 0.02 to -0.47, P = 0.075). Subgroup analyses revealed that resistance training for more than 16 weeks and a training frequency of three times a week led to a greater decrease in CRP and IL-6 levels in the elderly. Conclusions: The findings of this meta-analysis suggest a significant decrease in CRP and IL-6 levels in the elderly due to resistance training. Furthermore, the subgroup analysis indicated that higher training volumes (training duration and frequency) result in a greater reduction in these markers' levels. Based on these findings, it is advisable for elderly individuals to consider incorporating resistance training into their regular exercise routines.
The Impact of Aerobic Exercise on Athletic Performance in Recovered and Uninfected COVID-19 Athletes during Post-COVID-19 Period
Authors: Shaabani Ezdini Ebrahim , Rahmani Ahmad , Esmaeilniya Mahboobeh , Gholizadeh Elham , Dergaa Ismail , Lebaron Tyler W
Published: April 2024

Background: The global COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced athletes worldwide. Objectives: This research aims to investigate the effects of a 4-week aerobic exercise program on athletic performance in both recovered and uninfected COVID-19 athletes during the post-COVID-19 period. Methods: Fourteen male student-athletes aged 18 - 25 years from Imam Khomeini International University participated in this study. The participants comprised 7 recovered COVID-19 athletes and 7 athletes with no prior COVID-19 infection. The study employed a pre-test/post-test design conducted in 2 phases. During the pre and post-test phases, participants underwent baseline assessments of athletic performance, including maximum oxygen consumption (VO2 max) and anaerobic power. Subsequently, the participants engaged in a 4-week aerobic exercise intervention. Pre- and post-intervention outcomes within groups were compared using paired t-tests, while independent t-tests were utilized for comparisons between the recovered COVID-19 athlete group and the uninfected athlete group. Results: Independent t-tests demonstrated significant increases in VO2 max and peak power after 4 weeks of aerobic exercise in both the recovered COVID-19 group (P = 0.001, P = 0.0001) and the uninfected COVID-19 group (P = 0.012, P = 0.001). However, dependent t-tests revealed a significant difference between the recovered COVID-19 group and the uninfected COVID-19 group in the post-test of VO2 max (P = 0.044) and peak power (P = 0.001). Conclusions: This study indicates that a 4-week aerobic exercise regimen can improve athletic performance in both recovered and uninfected COVID-19 athletes. However, recovered COVID-19 athletes exhibited a notably slower rate of improvement compared to their uninfected counterparts. Therefore, it is recommended that, in addition to aerobic exercise, recovered athletes integrate supplementary strategies to optimize their return-to-sport timeline and maximize performance recovery.
Do Different Times of The Day Affect Dart Throwing Performance?
Authors: Nurullah Kadi Mustafa , Orhan Ozlem , Yüksel Yılmaz
Published: April 2024

ackground: Dart sport has become a sport that has recently become widespread among sports branches and its popularity is increasing rapidly day by day. With this popularization, research on darts is increasing. It is stated that athletes can do the training they do at any time of the day with a much better performance at a different time, as in many changing conditions. In addition, at a different time of day, fatigue may be reached later or recovery may occur more quickly. For these reasons, knowing the effect of training at different times of the day is important for both the coach and the athlete. Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different times of the day on throwing performance in darts, an indoor skill in which focus, attention, concentration are at the forefront and environmental factors are less effective than outdoor skill. Methods: In this study, 16 dart athletes (8 boys, 8 girls) with a sport age of 2 - 3 years and an age of 12 - 14 years, who did not have any health problems in Mardin province, participated voluntarily: 2 m and 2.37 m from two different distances at 8.00 and 17.00, 1 day apart. Before the dart throws, the Daily Rhythm Determination Scale for Children was administered to the participants. The center of the dartboard was placed at eye level for each subject. After the throws, the Perceived Difficulty Scale was applied. In the analysis examining the relationship between perceived degree of difficulty, morningness-eveningness and throwing, the subjects’ evening throwing scores and evening perceived degree of difficulty scores were examined; a negative and significant relationship was observed in the eveningist group (r = -1, P = 0.01). No significant relationship was observed in the morning group. Results: In the study, a statistically significant difference was found between the subjects’ morning and evening throws at 2 m and 2.37 cm. In both morning and evening groups, it was determined that the throwing performance increased in the evening measurements. Conclusions: As a result, this study concluded that there is an effect of time of day in dart sport and that dart throws made in the evening give better results than dart throws made in the morning. Based on these results, it is recommended that a program should be made by the coaches considering the school programs and daily routines to reduce the effect of time of day. It is thought that this study will be important for chronobiological researches to reveal the factors affecting performance as well as the effect of time of day in darts sport.
Effects of Plyometric Training on Lower Limb Strength and Power in Young Postpubertal High Level Basketball Players
Authors: Gadea Uribarri Hector , Mainer Pardos Elena , Villanueva Guerrero Oscar , Caro Serrano Alvaro , Gonzalo Skok Oliver , Roso-Moliner Alberto , Lozano Demetrio
Published: April 2024

Background: Currently, the scientific evidence available on plyometric training in young basketball players is limited. Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the effects produced by plyometric training over a period of 8 weeks, with a frequency of two weekly training sessions, combining vertical and horizontal force vectors. Methods: The study involved 28 young men (14.54 ± 0.6 years, a height of 182.76 ± 7.1 cm and a body weight of 68.05 ± 9.8 kg) high-level basketball players and aimed to investigate the effects of this training program on athletes at different maturational states, specifically based on their peak height velocity (PHV) and post-pubertal (post-PHV) stages. Results: Substantial improvements were achieved in the subjects who have carried out this type of plyometric training in all the parameters evaluated related to the improvement of the jump, linear speed and change of direction. Conclusions: Therefore, it is crucial to provide valuable information to trainers and physical trainers, enabling them to improve and individualize the conditioning work for optimal performance of their athletes.
Tendency to Consume Anabolic Steroids and Body-Building Supplements in the General Population: An Ecological Study
Authors: Rabiee Mohammadreza , Mousavi Masoumeh Sadat
Published: April 2024

Background: Anabolic steroids and bodybuilding supplements are products that are readily available in the market and are increasingly being used by young people and athletes. This trend has become a social issue worldwide. Objectives: The purpose of this study is to examine and determine the changes in the prevalence and trends of anabolic steroid usage in Iran. Methods: This ecological study utilized the Google Trends database as its primary source. Initially, we searched for specific keywords related to "anabolic steroids (AS)", "Body-building supplements (BBS)", and "COVID-19" among all searches conducted using GTs from January 2017 to December 2022. Subsequently, Spearman's correlation coefficient was employed to assess the association between the keywords "AS" and "BBS" with the term "COVID-19" during various years. Results: The preference for consuming protein (58.19 ± 15.24) was highest among BBS, while recovery (12.14 ± 17.09) was the lowest. In the case of AS, the highest search frequency was related to Testosterone (56.64 ± 9.57), while the lowest was related to Primobolan (13.72 ± 8.21). In early 2020, we observed a significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the inclination to use BBS and AS, leading to a substantial decrease in willingness to use. However, we did not observe a statistically significant correlation between keyword searches for COVID-19 and AS & BBS. Conclusions: The trend of AS and BBS usage in Iran is on the rise. The indiscriminate use of supplements is a cause for concern and calls for educational interventions.
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE BEHAVIOR OF CONDUCTING BREAST SELF-EXAMINATION ON WOMEN OF CHILDBEARING AGE IN THE BANDUNG HEALTH CENTER AREA SERANG REGENCY IN 2023
Authors: Sri Nani Indriyani  , Prihayati  , Lukman Waris
Published: April 2024

Global Buren of Cancer data shows data on cancer patients in the world as many as 19.3 million cases. The highest number is in breast cancer patients totaling 2.261 million cases (Globocan, 2020). Data from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) in 2020, the number of new cases of breast cancer has increased and become the highest incidence of cancer in women, namely breast cancer with 665,339 new cases and 131,252 deaths from breast cancer worldwide (Globocan, 2020). The low desire of women to do BSE examination can be influenced by internal and external factors. Internal factors include knowledge, attitudes and family history of cancer. As for external factors, namely sources of information and parental support. This type of research is quantitative research with a research design using a cross sectional approach. The purpose of this study is to determine the factors that influence the behavior of conducting breast self-examination in women of childbearing age in the Bandung Health Center area, Serang Regency in 2023. By using the total sampling technique, the determination of the sample obtained was as many as 120 mothers who met the inclusion criteria. Chi Square test results show a significant relationship between knowledge, education, the role of health workers, and information media with breast self-examination behavior (P−value 0.000).
THE EFFECT OF FINANCIAL RATIOS AND COMPANY SIZE ON COMPANY VALUE (CASE STUDY ON MANUFACTURING COMPANIES LISTED ON IDX FOR THE 2021-2022 PERIOD)
Authors: Rita Novita  , Aminah
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the study is to determine how company size, profitability, leverage, and liquidity affect the value of mining subsector manufacturing companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) in 2021–2022. IBM SPSS Statistics 23 was used to test the data in this quantitative research design. Using purposive sampling techniques, the research sample consisted of 27 companies that met the main criteria of being listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2021–2022. Multiple linear regression, classical assumption testing, descriptive statistical analysis, and hypothesis testing are the analytical techniques used. Research findings show that in mining subsector manufacturing companies in 2021–2022, profitability, leverage, liquidity, and company size have a considerable positive influence on company value.
Time-varying Relationship between Oil Prices, Stock Market Performance, and Covid-19 in United States of America, China, and Malaysia: Evidence from Wavelet Approach
Authors: Ai Kok Yu
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this paper is to have a better understanding of the reactions to the oil price and stock market performance over a different period of the Covid-19 pandemic from January 2019 to August 2022 (Pre Covid, During Covid, and Post Covid) in the United States of America, China, and Malaysia. In the study, various approaches such as line graphs, descriptive statistics, correlation, wavelet correlation, continuous wavelet transform, and wavelet coherence analysis were used to analyse the decomposition of time series oil and stock market data in different time period. The study provides evidence of positive linear relationships between crude oil prices with the 3 countries’ stock markets in pre-covid, during-Covid and post-covid. In addition, both oil price and stock prices have evidence of a lead-lag relationship with each other, which differs in the period of time. The research results will benefit investors for better prediction during future pandemic situations and economic crises.
Two-dimensional silicon-based dielectric column photonic crystal point defect microcavity Neural network modelling
Authors: Zhang Tingshuang
Published: April 2024

In order to solve the problem that it is difficult to predict the microcavity photonic energy bands of point defects in two-dimensional silicon-based dielectric column photonic crystals, this paper proposes a method to predict the microcavity photonic energy bands of point defects in two-dimensional silicon-based photonic crystals by using an artificial neural network model. In this paper, the energy band structure of triangular lattice point defects at different radii is calculated using MPB, and a neural network model is established based on this data and the accuracy of the established model is verified.
Preparation of biochar materials and their research progress in supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Mengqian , Zhang Yalin , Li Tianwang , Jin Yinyin , Cai Yanqing
Published: April 2024

With the depletion of fossil fuels causing a series of energy and environmental problems, accelerating the development of green and clean energy is urgent. Supercapacitors are favored by researchers due to their excellent performance such as high specific energy and good stability. Biochar is obtained from biomass materials after pre-carbonization and activation treatment, with developed pore size, high active specific surface area, and abundant resources. It has good application prospects as a supercapacitor material. This article provides a brief introduction to biomass charcoal materials and introduces the preparation methods of biomass charcoal and its research progress in the field of supercapacitors. Finally, it looks forward to the development trend of biomass charcoal materials, providing a reference for further improving the research application of biomass charcoal materials in the field of supercapacitors in the future.
Treatment for bipolar disorder
Authors: Li Yantong
Published: April 2024

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness with a high incidence in recent years, and its clinical manifestations are mainly characterized by manic episodes and depressive episodes. With the development of society, the age of onset of the disease is gradually younger, which seriously affects the mental health and study and life of adolescents. There are many methods for the treatment of this disease, but not all of them are used in adolescents. Therefore, this paper mainly refers to various literatures and data to find out the more suitable treatment methods for adolescents. The final result of the study is that psychotherapy for mild to moderate adolescent patients will not cause adverse effects on their body due to adverse reactions. Moderate to severe adolescent patients will be treated with a combination of psychological and medical treatment, to the greatest extent possible to heal them. In order to consider the mental health of adolescents more comprehensively, this part of the problem is usually ignored by everyone. With the development of science and technology, more attention should be paid to the mental health of adolescents.
Effect of quantitative brine process and curdlan gel on texture quality of spiced beef
Authors: Wang Jie , Liu Wendong , Xing Yanxia , Liu Sheng , Chang Guifang , Yu Yang , Cao Zhenling , Zhou Ying , Li Bo , Song Yue , Hou Wenbo , Zhu He , Zhu Mengliu
Published: April 2024

In order to solve the problems of loose texture and low quality of brined beef in the actual production process, this study took beef tendon as raw material, firstly, carried out the study of quantitative brining process to determine the optimal brining process; then, used the brine injection technique to add curdlan gel, and then used texture profile analysis (TPA) to study the effect of different types and amounts of curdlan gel (0%, 1%, 2%, 3% and 4%) on the textural properties of the brined beef. (TPA) was used to study the effects of different types and amounts of curdlan gel (0%, 1%, 2%, 3% and 4%) on the textural properties of brined beef. The optimum quantitative brining conditions for brined beef were determined by one-way and orthogonal tests: marinating time of 6 hours, brining time of 40 minutes and simmering time of 20 minutes, which gave the highest overall acceptability score. The results of the test calculations showed that the content of curdlan gel No. 1 was 71% and the content of curdlan gel No. 2 was 45%. The results of texture analysis showed that the hardness, stickiness and chewiness of the brined beef in the group added with curdlan gel gum No.1 decreased significantly (P<0.05), while the changes of elasticity, cohesiveness and reactivity were not significant (P>0.05); the hardness of the brined beef in the group added with curdlan gel gum No.2 increased slightly, and the changes of stickiness, chewiness, elasticity, cohesiveness and reactivity were not significant (P>0.05), indicating that the hardness of meat products did not necessarily just show a decreasing trend with the increase of the content of curdlan gel gum. After comprehensive analysis, it was concluded that, since the content of the available natural gum No.1 was significantly higher than that of No.2, the effect on the texture was also significantly higher than that of No.2, among which the effects on hardness, viscosity and chewiness were significant (P>0.05). Moreover, regardless of the curdlan gel No.1 or No.2, the overall analysis revealed that the effect on the texture of marinated beef was the greatest when the added amount of curdlan gel gum was 2%. Therefore, the addition of appropriate amount of curdlan gel gum during the processing of marinated meat products can effectively improve the quality of meat and prolong its shelf-life.
Sarcoid-Induced Uveitis: A Tattooed Journey
Authors: Panchal Simmy
Published: April 2024

When a patient presents with an anterior uveitis that is suspicious for a systemic etiology, it is important to explore all areas of clinical care to determine the cause. Traditionally, the initial approach is to perform an appropriate lab work-up. Beyond this, areas of specialty that are typically considered include rheumatology, radiology, and infectious disease. However, this case report will present a patient that required intervention from dermatology to confirm the source of ocular inflammation.
What Evidence Based Medicine is Not: Part 2
Authors: Klute Kyle
Published: April 2024

How do we, as busy clinicians in the trenches of patient care, appraise and apply EBM to our practice? If you've read all that I've written on this topic...
PHOTO ESSAY: “New” Red Eye - A Case of Conjunctival Intraepithelial Neoplasia
Authors: Njeru Steve
Published: April 2024

Ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) covers a wide range of ocular diseases that affect the squamous epithelial cells on the surface of the eye. This includes conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia, corneal epithelial dysplasia, squamous cell carcinoma, and mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Anterior segment OCT can be used to differentiate between CIN and other benign conjunctival lesions, by evaluating for epithelial activity, stromal invasion, and corneal involvement.
Relationship Between Perceived Parenting Style, Perceived Stress and Emotional Competence Among Young Adults
Authors: - Nishtha Kandhari , - Monu Lal Sharma
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the study is to investigate the relationship between Perceived Parenting Style, Perceived Stress, and Emotional Competence among young adults age ranging between 18-25 years. Parenting style refers to the behaviour of the parents towards their children, it can differ as every parent has a different way of interacting and guiding their children. The perception of children about the parenting style they experienced is referred to as Perceived Parenting Style. Parenting styles play a significant role in a child's emotional, physical, and psychological development. Stress is a bodily reaction to a threatening situation. Emotional competence refers to an individual’s ability to manage and express their emotions in a healthy way. This study attempts to determine the correlation between perceived parenting style, perceived stress and emotional competence. The scales utilised to collect the sample were The Perceived parenting style scale (PPSS) by Divya and Manikandan, The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) developed by Sheldon Cohen and the Emotional Competence Scale (EC-Scale) developed by R. Bharadwaj and H. Sharma. The methods utilised to analyse the data were descriptive statistics, Independent t-test and Pearson’s Correlation. SPSS software was utilised for the analysis. The result indicates a significant relationship between Perceived Parenting Style, Perceived Stress and Emotional Competence.