bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal structure and composition of the microbial communities in hypersaline Lake Magadi, Kenya
Authors: Kipnyargis Alex , Kenya Eucharia , Khamis Fathiya , Mwirichia Romano
Published: May 2024

Background Soda lakes are habitats characterized by haloalkaline conditions also known to host unique microbial communities. The water chemistry changes with seasons due to evaporative concentration or floods from the surrounding grounds. However, it is not yet clear if the change in physiochemical changes influences the spatiotemporal diversity and structure of microbial communities in these ecosystems. Methods Using 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing, we investigated the diversity and structure of microbial communities in water and brine samples taken from Lake Magadi between June and September 2018. Additionally, physicochemical parameters were also analyzed for every sampling site. Additionally, physicochemical parameters were also analyzed for every sampling site. Results The abundant bacterial phyla were Proteobacteria, Cyanobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Verrumicrobia, Deinococcus-Thermus, Spirochaetes, and Chloroflexi. The Archaeal diversity was represented by phyla Euryachaeota, Crenarchaeota, Euryarchaeota, and Thaumarchaeota. The dominant bacterial species were: Euhalothece sp. (10.3%), Rhodobaca sp. (9.6%), Idiomarina sp. (5.8%), Rhodothermus sp. (3.0%), Roseinatronobacter sp. (2.4%), Nocardioides sp. (2.3%), Gracilimonas sp. (2.2%), and Halomonas sp. (2%). The dominant archaeal species included Halorubrum sp. (18.3%), Salinarchaeum sp. (5.3%), and Haloterrigena sp. (1.3%). The composition of bacteria was higher than that of archaea, while their richness and diversity varied widely across the sampling seasons. The α-diversity indices showed that high diversity was recorded in August, followed by September, June, and July in that order. The findings demonstrated that temperature, pH, P+, K+, NO3 -, and total dissolved solids (TDS) contributed majorly to the diversity observed in the microbial community. Multivariate analysis revealed significant spatial and temporal effects on β-diversity and salinity and alkalinity were the major drivers of microbial composition in Lake Magadi. Conclusions We provide insights into the relationships between microbial structure and geochemistry across various sampling sites in Lake Magadi.
Development and validation of a structured questionnaire to assess the Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) regarding the effect of yoga on periodontal health among Indian adults.
Authors: N. Kedlaya Madhurya , Puzhankara Lakshmi , Mahendra Mansi , K. Vineetha , Sinha Suraj Prasad , Singh Anupam , Karmakar Shaswata
Published: May 2024

Background Periodontal disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of structures surrounding the teeth. Its etiology is multifactorial. The primary etiological factor is the microbial component; the other factors are systemic, behavioral, environmental, and psychological. Conventional management includes routine periodontal therapy involving prophylactic and surgical management. In developing countries like India, complementary medicine and alternative medicines like yoga are gaining popularity for improving systemic health. Hence this pilot study was designed to assess the psychometric properties of a structured questionnaire that can assess knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding the impact of yoga on oral and periodontal health in Indian population. Methods The KAP questionnaire was developed (Stage One) using a deductive approach, and a psychometric evaluation of the questionnaire was performed to evaluate it’s reliability and validity (Stage Two). Initial content validation and test re-test reliability were assessed using kappa statistics with binary responses. An intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to assess the questions in the practice and attitude category with categorical variables. Further assessment of psychometric properties of the questionnaire was done using item response theory. The developed questionnaire had four principal sections: demography of participants; knowledge regarding yoga and oral health; attitude towards yoga and oral health; and practice towards implementing yoga for oral health. Results The ICC for all the assessed questions was greater than 0.60 suggesting satisfactory stability. Internal consistency measured using Cronbach’s alpha for knowledge, attitude, and practice items were reported to be 0.632, 0.923, and 0.591 respectively and that of the KAP total was 0.632. Conclusions The findings of this study showed that the questionnaire had an acceptable psychometric property for measuring KAP regarding yoga and it’s role in oral and periodontal health among Indian adults. The analysis of participant responses revealed that they had a medium level of knowledge regarding yoga and periodontal disease.
Association between infertility and risk of cardiovascular diseases in young women
Authors: Ganjare Roshani , Mangalaram Anjali
Published: May 2024

Scientists and medical experts are beginning to understand the significant role that a woman’s past reproductive experiences play in her potential risk of developing heart disease. Reproductive history is seldom considered when assessing the cardiovascular risk. Infertility, high blood pressure, and hypertension are risk factors for heart disease. Additional analyses were conducted to determine whether the apparent increase in risk could be influenced by other risk factors associated with infertility such as irregular menstruation, thyroid conditions, and waist circumference. This study aimed to investigate the association between cardiovascular risk and infertility in women and those who are fertile. The objectives of this study were to estimate the levels of serum creatinine kinase (MB) in both infertile and fertile control groups, as well as to estimate the LDL and HDL levels in the same groups. The study group comprised 78 participants, of which 39 were fertile and 39 were infertile. CK (MB), HDL, LDL, Uric acid, and high sensitivity C reactive Protein (hs-CRP) levels were analyzed. In this study, we discuss how infertility may share common pathways with cardiovascular diseases. Numerous mechanisms may be involved in mediating infertility, including ovulatory abnormalities, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids. For example, in addition to having lower HDL levels, women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are more likely to have higher levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL. PCOS patients typically exhibit elevated UA levels and hyperuricemia, which are commonly associated with increased androgen levels.
Leveraging Quadratic Polynomials in Python for Advanced Data Analysis
Authors: Sipakov Rostyslav , Voloshkina Olena , Kovalova Anastasiia
Published: May 2024

Objectives This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the role of quadratic polynomials in data modeling and analysis, particularly in representing the curvature of natural phenomena. Methods We begin with a fundamental explanation of quadratic polynomials and describe their general forms and theoretical significance. We then explored the application of these polynomials in regression analysis, detailing the process of fitting quadratic models to the data using Python libraries NumPy and Matplotlib. The methodology also included calculation of the coefficient of determination (R-squared) to evaluate the polynomial model fit. This study utilizes illustratively generated data to demonstrate the application of quadratic polynomials in Python for robust data analysis. Results Using practical examples accompanied by Python scripts, this study demonstrated the application of quadratic polynomials to analyze data patterns. These examples illustrate the utility of quadratic models in applied analytics. Conclusions This study bridges the gap between theoretical mathematical concepts and practical data analysis, thereby enhancing the understanding and interpretation of the data patterns. Furthermore, its implementation in Python, released under MIT’s license, offers an accessible tool for public use.
A Scoping Review of Existing Policy Instruments to Tackle Overweight and Obesity in India: Recommendations for a Social and Behaviour Change Communication Strategy
Authors: Thapliyal Nishibha , Bassi Shalini , Bahl Deepika , Chauhan Kavita , Backholer Kathryn , Bhatia Neena , Ghosh-Jerath Suparna , Tripathy Lopamudra , Mishra Preetu , Chandra Seema , Arora Monika
Published: May 2024

Background The Indian government is committed to address various manifestations of malnutrition, including overweight and obesity, inorder to improve individual health and well-being. The scoping review aims to map existing national policy instruments (programmes, schemes, regulations and guidelines) addressing overweight and obesity in India and analysing them for Social and Behaviour Change Communication (SBCC) strategies. Methods Systematic identification and selection of policy instruments using ‘Arksey and O’Malley’ framework was conducted from central government ministry websites, between March and June 2023. These instruments focused on nutrition and/or physical activity, targeting specific demographic groups like pregnant women, lactating mothers, children (0-5 years and 5-9 years), or adolescents (10-19 years); excluding those focusing on specific diseases like micronutrient deficiencies, wasting, and stunting. Based on search strategy six policy instruments were included and analysed for SBCC strategies. Results While many policy instruments incorporated SBCC plans; the ‘National Programme for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD)’ stands out as a significant policy initiative specifically targeting the prevention of overweight and obesity within the broader context of Non-Communicable Diseases. It adopts a comprehensive approach addressing key drivers contributing to overweight/obesity across multiple levels of behavioural influence i.e., individual, interpersonal, community and organisation for health promotion. However, there’s need to strengthen SBCC strategies related to prevention and management of obesity, especially screening and counselling, to cover all age groups with a particular focus on adolescents and youth. SBCC strategies can also be incorporated into India’s Integrated Nutrition Support Programme (POSHAN 2.0) and/or Reproductive, Maternal, New-born, Child, Adolescent Health and Nutrition (RMNCAH+N) under the National Health Mission. Conclusion This paper underscores the necessity for comprehensive strategies to address multifaceted origin of overweight and obesity. The NP-NCD stands out as a noteworthy initiative, and there is considerable potential for other programmes to emulate it SBCC strategies to bolster their overall effectiveness. Note : *Policy instrument’s throughout the paper has been used to cover programmes, schemes, regulations and guidelines.
I'm sick? I don't train!" – Relation between training during upper respiratory infection and myocarditis
Authors: Żuchowski Michał , Mańdziuk Dominika , Niewinna Patrycja , Zaroda Przemysław , Dąda Paweł , Pawlik Paweł , Kołodziej Wojciech , Kołodziej Klaudia , Wawrzkowicz Jakub , Korga Monika
Published: May 2024

IntrocudtionMyocarditis is one of the leading causes of sudden cardiac deaths among athletes. One of the factors increasing the risk of this disease is engaging in sports training during an infection. Many athletes, regardless of their level of advancement, are not aware of the risks associated with training during an infection, and those who are aware often ignore them and continue training.
Purpose
Assessment of behaviors and awareness among runners in Poland regarding the risk of developing myocarditis as a result of training during respiratory tract infections.
Material and method
In December 2023, a voluntary and anonymous online survey was conducted among a group of 399 adult runners from Poland. The survey included 13 questions, consisting of 11 single-choice questions and 2 multiple-choice questions.
Results
The percentage of individuals who do not associate training during an infection with an increased risk of myocarditis amounts to as much as 44.4% (n=177), while a staggering 86.7% (n=346) of respondents declare that they undertake training during respiratory infections.
Conslusion
After analyzing the survey, it's evident that while the Polish running community recognizes the risks of training during infections, many still exercise despite symptoms. Although most understand that intense training and early return to sports can harm health, awareness of myocarditis risks from exertion during infection is lacking. Despite protocols for post-illness return to sports, there's a need for campaigns to educate the running community on infection-related training risks.
Significance of the Gut-Brain Axis in the Development of Overweight and Obesity
Authors: Kuśmierska Martyna , Kuśmierski Jakub , Janik Izabela , Martyka Anna , Ujma Przemysław
Published: May 2024

Introduction: The global obesity crisis results from inactive lifestyles and poor diets, increasing the risk of metabolic disorders. Emerging research links obesity with gut microbiome changes influenced by factors like age, genetics, and diet. Gut-brain communication via neural, endocrine, and inflammatory pathways, influenced by microbial compounds, affects nervous system function.
Materials and Methods of Research: A thorough literature review was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar, employing keywords related to the gut-brain axis and obesity.
Results: Obesity shifts gut microbiota composition due to factors like childbirth method, diet, antibiotics, and environment. This imbalance impacts metabolism, appetite, and insulin sensitivity. Gut microbes influence the brain, regulating energy balance and inflammation. Dysregulated tryptophan metabolism leads to insulin resistance. Gut-brain communication via the vagal nerve affects nutrient metabolism. Hormones like insulin and leptin, along with microbial metabolites, affect lipid metabolism and appetite. Gut microbiota abundance correlates with leptin signaling, and changes in ghrelin levels relate to microbiota composition. Microbial presence affects food cravings. Inflammation in obesity is linked to gut microbiota changes, mediated by bile acids and microbial metabolites. Interventions like probiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation offer potential for managing obesity. Emerging therapies like peptide D3 hold promise but require further study.
Conclusion: The microbiome-gut-brain axis is vital in obesity, affecting metabolism, inflammation, and appetite. Utilizing interventions such as dietary adjustments and probiotics targeting gut-brain signaling shows promise in managing obesity. Personalized approaches are crucial due to microbiome complexity. Further research is needed to develop effective therapies for the obesity epidemic.
Relevo generacional y gestión del conocimiento en empresas de artesanía de la provincia de Sugamuxi, en el departamento de Boyacá (Colombia)
Authors: Guzmán Sanabria Leonardo , Saldarriaga Juan Guillermo
Published: May 2024

En la provincia de Sugamuxi, Boyacá, Colombia, se identifica la amenaza de extinción de los artesanos locales por la ausencia de gestión del conocimiento y el bajo relevo generacional. A través de un enfoque cualitativo y constructivista se recopiló información de diez artesanos utilizando observación participante y entrevistas semiestructuradas. Los resultados evidencian dos desafíos principales: inestabilidad económica y disminución de jóvenes interesados en continuar con la tradición debido a sus expectativas de vida. Se destaca la necesidad de construir políticas específicas con enfoques diferenciales para fortalecer la identidad territorial y el sentido de comunidad. Además, se resalta el papel vital de las mujeres como transmisoras del conocimiento artesanal y la importancia de incluir a los jóvenes en decisiones empresariales. A pesar de las iniciativas de adaptación e innovación por parte de algunas empresas artesanales, el conocimiento tradicional, especialmente de los artesanos mayores, está en peligro debido a un proceso socioestructural que privilegia lo moderno sobre lo tradicional. El estudio concluye enfatizando el desafío de equilibrar la preservación de prácticas tradicionales como parte de la riqueza patrimonial y cultural de la región y la implementación de prácticasmodernas de administración y gestión.
Industry Peer Information and the Equity Valuation Accuracy of Firms Emerging from Chapter 11
Authors: Fang Bingxu , Saiy Sasan , Vyas Dushyantkumar
Published: May 2024

Valuation plays a central role in determining Chapter 11 reorganization outcomes. However, obtaining accurate valuation estimates of reorganized firms is challenging because of limited firm-specific market-based information and the oft-conflicting incentives of claimholders. We examine the role of industry peer information in reducing misvaluations and its implications for unintended interclaimant wealth transfers and postreorganization performance. First, we find that the availability of relevant industry peer information is negatively associated with equity valuation errors for firms emerging from Chapter 11. Cross-sectional results suggest that the relation between industry peer information and valuation errors varies substantially with debtors’ information environment and case characteristics. Second, we find that industry peer information quality is associated with better ex post financial performance of emerged firms because of lower overvaluation. Finally, we document the role of industry peer information in substantially reducing the frequency and magnitude of unintended wealth transfers between claimants arising from equity valuation errors.

This paper was accepted by Suraj Srinivasan, accounting.

Funding: The authors appreciate financial support from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada [Grant 435-2020-0583] and the Canadian Academic Accounting Association. B. Fang acknowledges financial support from the Della Suantio Fellowship.

Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.01233 .
An Iterative Adaptive Dynamic Programming Approach for Macroscopic Fundamental Diagram-Based Perimeter Control and Route Guidance
Authors: Chen Can , Geroliminis Nikolas , Zhong Renxin
Published: May 2024

Macroscopic fundamental diagrams (MFDs) have been widely adopted to model the traffic flow of large-scale urban networks. Coupling perimeter control and regional route guidance (PCRG) is a promising strategy to decrease congestion heterogeneity and reduce delays in large-scale MFD-based urban networks. For MFD-based PCRG, one needs to distinguish between the dynamics of (a) the plant that represents reality and is used as the simulation tool and (b) the model that contains easier-to-measure states than the plant and is used for devising controllers, that is, the model-plant mismatch should be considered. Traditional model-based methods (e.g., model predictive control (MPC)) require an accurate representation of the plant dynamics as the prediction model. However, because of the inherent network uncertainties, such as uncertain dynamics of heterogeneity and demand disturbance, MFD parameters could be time-varying and uncertain. Conversely, existing data-driven methods (e.g., reinforcement learning) do not consider the model-plant mismatch and the limited access to plant-generated data, for example, subregional OD-specific accumulations. Therefore, we develop an iterative adaptive dynamic programming (IADP)-based method to address the limited data source induced by the model-plant mismatch. An actor-critic neural network structure is developed to circumvent the requirement of complete information on plant dynamics. Performance comparisons with other PCRG schemes under various scenarios are carried out. The numerical results indicate that the IADP controller trained with a limited data source can achieve comparable performance with the “benchmark” MPC approach using perfect measurements from the plant. The results also validate the IADP’s robustness against various uncertainties (e.g., demand noise, MFD error, and trip distance heterogeneity) when minimizing the total time spent in the urban network. These results demonstrate the great potential of the proposed scheme in improving the efficiency of multiregion MFD systems.

Funding: The work was jointly funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China under [Grant 72071214] (R. Zhong), the Dit4Tram project from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme under [Grant 953783] (N. Geroliminis), and the Research Student Attachment Programme of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (C. Chen).

Supplemental Material: The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/trsc.2023.0091 .
Comparative Study of Groundwater Quality for Drinking and Irrigation Purposes in Selected Villages of Manipur, India
Authors: Devi Ngangbam Premala , Singh Laishram Nandababu
Published: May 2024

A comparative study was done to monitor the groundwater qualities, both for drinking as well as irrigation purposes in some villages of Imphal East district, Manipur, in the period of pre-monsoon and monsoon of 2021. Totally, fifteen (15) groundwater samples were collected and examined for some important parameters like temperature, pH, TDS, TH, TA, Mg2+, K+, HCO3-, Ca2+, CO32-, Na+, Cl-, NO3- and SO42-. The results revealed that all the groundwaters were slightly alkaline in nature and fall under freshwater category. In both the seasons, majority of the parameters for various groundwaters have found their values/ concentrations below its acceptable limits, as given by BIS and WHO. In pre-monsoon, 73.33% of groundwaters were found as ‘moderately hard water’ and 26.67% (hard water) whereas in monsoon, 60% (moderately hard water) and 40% (hard water). Dominant ions in both seasons were Na+ (sodium) and HCO3- (bicarbonate) for cations and anions respectively. In most of the samples of monsoon, values and concentrations of the studied parameters were observed to be greater/higher as compared to that of pre-monsoon. It was mainly due to the leaching out of the soluble salts in the earth’s crust by rainwaters and finally mingled with the groundwater bodies in the aquifers in monsoon season. WQI values showed that in pre-monsoon, 26.67% of groundwaters were found as excellent water, 66.67% (good) and 6.66% (poor) while in monsoon, 60% (good) and 40% (poor). For irrigation water qualities, the indices (RSC, SAR, %Na, PI and KR) were examined. In the overall, all the samples can be utilized for irrigation (agriculture) purposes in both seasons. Correlation co-efficient (r) values showed that in both the seasons, the TH of various groundwaters was mainly because of dissolved sulphates of Ca2+ along with Mg2+.
Heavy Metal Phytoremediation by Crop Species at Hebbal Industrial Area, Mysuru, India
Authors: Sosale Santhosh M , N S Raju
Published: May 2024

Heavy metals are frequently added to the soil in the area of study as a result of industrialization. Removing this heavy metal from the soil is a difficult procedure, and phytoremediation is an essential and effective method for remediation. Heavy metals present in the study area include Fe, Cu, Cd, Pb, and Zn. Two plants namely Brassica juncea L. and Rapanus sativus L. were successfully grown on the polluted areas soil samples for phytoremediation. Brassica juncea L remediates the heavy metals Cu, Zn, Pb, and Cd, while Rapanus sativus L remediates Cd, Cu, Pb, and Fe. These two plants can uptake metal from roots to shoots, which means metal concentration is transferred from roots to shoots of the plant, indirectly decreasing concentration in the soil. Brassica juncea L was remediated for heavy metals Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn at a rate of 25.47%, 38.74%, 31.60%, and 26.75%, respectively. The remediation percentages for Rapanus sativus L of Cd, Cu, Pb, and Fe were 21.01%, 37.08%, 23.77%, and 47.19%, respectively. Brassica juncea L remediate in the order of Cu>Pb>Zn>Cd, and Rapanus sativus L Fe>Cu>Pb>Cd were in decreasing order. Shoots of Brassica juncea L had a higher bioconcentration than the roots of Rapanus sativus L, which clearly explains the metal uptake capacity of the plant. This paper investigated the uptake of heavy metals from roots to shoots, as well as their bioconcentration.
A Study on Urban Heat Island (UHI): Challenges and Opportunities for Mitigation
Authors: Yadav Anita , Singh Jaswant
Published: May 2024

Urban Heat Island (UHI) is a significant issue in metropolitan regions in India, where cities are experiencing increasing temperatures ranging from 1 to 5 °C. Although UHI is a global phenomenon, it particularly impacts major cities in India, and there is a need for more research in this field. This review compares the latest global developments in UHI research with the current research in India, highlighting areas where India may lag. The review notes that there is a lack of research on UHI in numerical modeling in India, which is a limitation. Because of this, finding a solution to UHI and putting it into law requires more focus and effort. Urgent measures are required to lessen the effects of UHI in urban areas of India. Parameter outputs such as Land Surface Temperatures (LST), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Land Use/Land Cover (LULC), and Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) were also compared with the results of prior research and modules in the review. Using correlations from three prior studies, the analysis demonstrated that the temperature deviation approximation was 0.157 °C better than last year's manuals. Consequently, additional research is needed to address urban heat islands (UHI) in Indian cities, focusing on numerical modeling. Prompt legislative and policy responses are also necessary. The review emphasizes the importance of ongoing research into UHI in India and measures to mitigate its effects.
Land Use-Land Cover Changes and Associated Drivers: A Case of Salooni Block of Chamba
Authors: Vaid Twinkle , Pathania Sanjay Singh
Published: May 2024

Land Use-Land Cover (LULC) changes are the anthropogenic alteration of the natural landscape. The LULC changes have been generated by a variety of factors, including natural, demographic, and economic ones, which put pressure on the land and had a variety of environmental effects. The transformation in Landscape is affecting the livelihoods of people in numerous ways. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the patterns in land use in order to determine how land should be developed, managed, and planned in order to understand the way it will be utilised in the future. In the present study, Salooni Block of Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh was subjected to a first-ever attempt at land-use change detection for the years 2002 and 2022. Satellite imageries of Landsat-7 Enhanced Thematic Mapper (ETM+) Landsat-8 Operational Land Imager (OLI) were used for landuse maps of 2002 and 2022 respectively. The classification was completed using a supervised classification technique and the USGS Land use Classification Scheme at Level I classes, including Agricultural Land, Barren Land, Built-up, Forest, Pasture Land, Snow Cover and Waterbody. Furthermore, fifty people aged 50 and above were interviewed to understand the local factors responsible for LU/LC change. The result indicates a rise in the forest cover, which now accounts for 48.2% of the total area. Since 2002, there has been a 2.3-fold rise in built-up land, which is a glaring indication of the pressure on land. The total area of agricultural and pasture land is decreasing, while the percentage of barren land has increased by 2%. To preserve the sustainability and food security of the ecologically vulnerable environment, stringent land use planning needs to be enforced in the mountainous region. The results of the LU/LC dynamics discussed above can be used to establish policies and strategies for restoring and enhancing the sustainability of the environment as well as the carrying capacity of the land.
Contamination Status of Residential and Farmland Surface Soils Within the Sunyani Municipality of Ghana
Authors: Asamoah Benjamin Darko , Danyi Paul , Otoo Bernice Araba , Adusu Daniel , Ankudze Bright
Published: May 2024

Exposure to heavy metals poses serious human health and ecological threats, especially in developing countries where ecological risk assessment and remediation are often ignored. While many studies have reported heavy metal toxicities in rapidly urbanizing cities with increased anthropogenic activities, limited information exists on metal toxicities and their ecological risks in soils within the Sunyani Municipality. Top soils were sampled from residential and farmland surface soils and analyzed for the concentration and potential risks for nine heavy metals within Sunyani Municipality. Apart from As and Mn, the two study sites generally recorded elevated levels of all metals than the pristine soil samples from the University of Energy and Natural Resources botanical garden. Levels of chromium, copper, lead, and zinc were however marginally higher in residential surface soils than in the farmlands. The soil contamination factor and geoaccumulation index both revealed moderate As, Hg, and Mn contamination at the two study locations. Furthermore, the soil enrichment factor showed significant enrichment for arsenic and moderate enrichment for cadmium in residential soils, while the farmland soils revealed moderate enrichment of As, Hg, and Mn. The potential ecological risk indices also showed considerable risk at both study locations, while the pollution load index revealed higher cumulative pollution in residential areas (PLI = 0.48) compared to the farmland surface soil (PLI = 0.40). The study therefore recommends the regulation of human activities and the use of chemicals that are possible sources of metal contamination to maintain the metals’ baseline levels in the soil, and reduce their health and environmental impacts.
Stečena koagulopatija u trogodišnjegdječaka s makrohematurijom– prikaz bolesnika
Authors: Malić Tudor Karolina , Armanda Višnja
Published: May 2024

Acquired coagulopathy is a rare, potentially life-threatening disorder which should be suspected if acute bleeding in patients with a negative previous hemorrhagic diathesis is encountered. This disease arises due to the formation of antibodies against clotting factors in a previously healthy child or adult, which specifically partially or completely neutralize the procoagulant activity of clotting factors or accelerate their removal from the circulating blood, reducing their plasma concentrations and increasing the bleeding tendency. The aforementioned disorder should be confirmed by determining global coagulation times, concentrations of individual clotting factors, and determining the presence of specific or non-specific antibodies. Timely treatment aimed at prompt stopping of bleeding and eradicating the resulting inhibitors will prevent the unfavorable outcome. It is recommended to continue monitoring patients in the outpatient setting with determination of PT and APTT for a year, because in 20% of cases a relapse of the disease occurs, although more often in adults. In this paper, we presented a three-year-old boy in whom we determined prolonged global coagulation times and the presence of non-specific inhibitors of the coagulation factors F II, F IX, F XI and F XII through the diagnostic workup of macrohematuria. The treatment with fresh frozen plasma and corticosteroids resulted in clinical improvement and disease remission. Acquired coagulopathy is a very rare disorder in childhood with scarce literature data. The aim of this paper is to demonstrate the possible causes, clinical course and treatment of this life-threatening disorder in children.
A comparative analysis of senior civil servants’ involvement in media management
Authors: Salomonsen Heidi Houlberg , Flinders Matthew , Hustedt Thurid
Published: May 2024

This article offers results of a comparative case study into how pressures from the media translate into the involvement of senior civil servants (SCSs) in media management and how this is reflected in differentiated ways in politico-administrative relationships. It offers tentative explanations for these differences through the lens of ‘public service bargains’. Based upon a qualitative analysis of documents and 62 interviews with SCSs and advisers in Denmark, Sweden and the UK, the research found that: (i) media management, in some countries, generates an extension and an amplification of the normative expectations towards SCSs’ involvement in media management; (ii) this is accompanied by a revitalisation of the reflections from SCSs to balance their responsiveness to the minister with anonymity and neutrality when involved in media management; (iii) an extensive formal politicisation seems to curb pressures on SCSs’ anonymity and neutrality and their involvement in media management. These findings improve our knowledge of SCSs’ involvement in media management by raising crucial questions about the political neutrality of administrators, tendencies towards politicised governance and (more) interventionist political staffers – amid intensified pressures from the media on governments.
Daniel Defoe, Island Geology, and the Erosion of the Historical Present
Authors: Juengel Scott J.
Published: May 2024

Abstract: This essay explores how Daniel Defoe's A Tour Through the Whole Island of Great Britain (1724–27) fashions a concept of the historical present out of the island's geomorphology, and especially the ongoing history of coastal erosion. Notably, Defoe's sense of islandness partakes of the world-ruination found in Thomas Burnet's The Sacred Theory of the Earth (1681), save that Defoe sees a "kind of divinity" in global trade, and the deep time of capital that can explain—if not mend—a broken planet. The result is an elongated and catastrophic present that yokes together anthropocentric forces with theological geologies to capture life amidst its wreckage.
The Northanger Unconformity: Biblio-Stratigraphy and Modalities of Change
Authors: MacKenzie Scott R.
Published: May 2024

Abstract: Jane Austen's Advertisement to Northanger Abbey (1817) observes that "places, manners, books, and opinions have undergone considerable changes" between 1803 and 1816 but does not say what those changes were. The volcano-disrupted summer of 1816 suggests the possibility of very large-scale change. Comparing the novel's measures of transformation with those introduced by the emergent discipline of geo-stratigraphy reveals a parallel between the historicism of sedimentary accumulation and Catherine Moreland's bildung . Both imply a transition from homeostatic cyclicity to irreversible progression. The unvarying routines of Catherine's home life become intolerable to her after Bath and Northanger. What the rise of capitalism forecloses from literary and nonliterary representation is not, as Amitav Ghosh proposes, change at a planetary scale but sameness sustained across any accumulation of time. The ceaseless dynamism of progress helps to keep economic reckonings with scarcity and finitude provisional: there is no stationary state, much less return to prior conditions. Systemic crisis is likewise hard to diagnose when all baselines and norms are subject to continual transformation.
Cultural Narratives of Charles V and Spanish Imaginaries in West Germany during the Franco Dictatorship
Authors: Fuentes Vega Alicia
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT: This article aims to contribute to research on the international relations between the Federal Republic of Germany and Spain after World War II, when the Franco dictatorship experienced a process of rehabilitation. In order to gain a better understanding of this phenomenon, we need to complement existing studies on the history of diplomatic relations with approaches to the sphere of cultural imaginaries. This article, intended as a particular case study, analyzes the resignification of Francoism in the Federal Republic of Germany (FRG) via the heritage and tourist narratives associated with one historical figure shared by both nations: Charles V.
Enhancing endoscopic scene reconstruction with color-aware inverse rendering through neural SDF and radiance fields
Authors: Qin Zhibao , Chen Qi , Qian Kai , Zheng Qinhong , Shi Junsheng , Tai Yonghang
Published: May 2024

Virtual surgical training is crucial for enhancing minimally invasive surgical skills. Traditional geometric reconstruction methods based on medical CT/MRI images often fall short in providing color information, which is typically generated through pseudo-coloring or artistic rendering. To simultaneously reconstruct both the geometric shape and appearance information of organs, we propose a novel organ model reconstruction network called Endoscope-NeSRF. This network jointly leverages neural radiance fields and Signed Distance Function (SDF) to reconstruct a textured geometric model of the organ of interest from multi-view photometric images acquired by an endoscope. The prior knowledge of the inverse correlation between the distance from the light source to the object and the radiance improves the real physical properties of the organ. The dilated mask further refines the appearance and geometry at the organ's edges. We also proposed a highlight adaptive optimization strategy to remove highlights caused by the light source during the acquisition process, thereby preventing the reconstruction results in areas previously affected by highlights from turning white. Finally, the real-time realistic rendering of the organ model is achieved by combining the inverse rendering and Bidirectional Reflectance Distribution Function (BRDF) rendering methods. Experimental results show that our method closely matches the Instant-NGP method in appearance reconstruction, outperforming other state-of-the-art methods, and stands as the superior method in terms of geometric reconstruction. Our method obtained a detailed geometric model and realistic appearance, providing a realistic visual sense for virtual surgical simulation, which is important for medical training.
Optimization of a fiber Fabry–Perot resonator for low-threshold modulation instability Kerr frequency combs
Authors: Bourcier Germain , Ousaid Safia Mohand , Balac Stephane , Lumeau Julien , Moreau Antonin , Bunel Thomas , Mussot Arnaud , Conforti Matteo , Llopis Olivier , Fernandez Arnaud
Published: May 2024

We report a theoretical and experimental investigation of fiber Fabry–Perot cavities aimed at enhancing Kerr frequency comb generation. The modulation instability (MI) power threshold is derived from the linear stability analysis of a generalized Lugiato–Lefever equation. By combining this analysis with the concepts of power enhancement factor (PEF) and optimal coupling, we predict the ideal manufacturing parameters of fiber Fabry–Perot (FFP) cavities for the MI Kerr frequency comb generation. Our findings reveal a distinction between the optimal coupling for modulation instability and that of the cold cavity. Consequently, mirror reflectivity must be adjusted to suit the specific application. We verified the predictions of our theory by measuring the MI power threshold as a function of detuning for three different cavities.
The mediating effect of post-traumatic growth on the relationship between personality traits and resilience among a sample of Lebanese adults
Authors: Bitar Zeinab , Fekih-Romdhane Feten , Mahfoud Daniella , Fawaz Mirna , Hallit Souheil , Obeid Sahar
Published: May 2024

Background

Resilience plays a crucial role in mental health promotion and prevention, and was shown to be more represented in individuals who exhibit high levels of extraversion, openness, agreeableness, and conscientiousness. However, there is a lack of studies that comprehensively investigate the association between personality traits and resilience in Lebanon and Arab countries more broadly. The purpose of the present study was to complement the literature by investigating the direct and indirect effects between the five personality traits and resilience among a sample of Lebanese adults through the intermediary role of posttraumatic growth.

Methodology

A cross-sectional study was carried out between May and July 2022, and enrolled 387 participants, all aged above 18 years old and recruited from all Lebanon governorates. The questionnaire used included socio-demographic questions, and the following scales: Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) to assess resilience, post traumatic growth (PTG), and Big Five Inventory (BFI-2). The SPSS software v.25 was used for the statistical analysis.

Results

Post-traumatic growth mediated the association between extraversion / agreeableness / conscientiousness and resilience. Higher extraversion / agreeableness / conscientiousness was significantly associated with more post-traumatic growth. Higher post-traumatic growth was significantly associated with more resilience. Extraversion, but not agreeableness and conscientiousness, was significantly and directly associated with more resilience.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that fostering PTG in individuals who experience adversity can help promote their resilience. Hence, it could be beneficial to design and apply programs aiming at supporting PTG among people who experience stressful and traumatizing situations, to consequently help them increase their sense of resilience.
Effects of neuraxial anesthesia in sitting and lateral positions on maternal hemodynamics in cesarean section: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wen Cui , Xiang Ying-ying , Pang Qian-yun , Liu Hong-liang
Published: May 2024

Study objective

During cesarean section, hypotension is a frequent side effect of spinal anesthesia. As a sitting or lateral position is required for spinal anesthesia performance, which of these two positions is more likely to cause intraoperative nausea, vomiting, and hypotension is still unknown. This meta-analysis compared the effects of these two positions on maternal hemodynamics and intraoperative nausea and vomiting.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis

Setting

Operating room

Patients

This study included 803 patients from 12 randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Interventions

Neuraxial anesthesia in sitting position vs. lateral position.

Measurements

We chose RCTs comparing the effects of spinal anesthesia in the sitting and lateral positions on maternal hemodynamics by thoroughly searching PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and the Web of Science for articles published from database inception until October 31, 2022. The Cochrane Handbook was used to assess the methodological quality of each RCT; the results were analyzed using RevMan 5.4 software; and the Egger test was used to assess publication bias.

Main results

12 randomised controlled trials with 803 participants were ultimately included in the final analysis. No significant differences were observed between the two positions in terms of the incidence of hypotension(RR, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.58–1.16; P = 0.26; I2 = 66%), lowest systolic blood pressure(MD, -0.81; 95% CI, -7.38–5.75; P = 0.81; I2 = 86%), the dose of ephedrine(MD, -1.19; 95% CI, -4.91–2.52; P = 0.53; I2 = 83%), and number of parturients requiring ephedrine(RR, 0.97; 95% CI, 0.64–1.46; P = 0.88; I2 = 74%). For the incidence of intraoperative nausea and vomiting, there was no statistical difference between the two positions.

Conclusion

Parturients undergoing elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia in the sitting or lateral position experienced similar incidence of hypotension, and there were no significant differences between these two positions in terms of the amount of ephedrine administered or the number of patients needing ephedrine. In both positions, the frequency of nausea and vomiting was comparable. The ideal position for anesthesia can be chosen based on the preferences and individual circumstances of the parturient and anesthesiologist.
Exploring the nexus between banking stability and market value: Evidence from the Iraqi banking sector
Authors: Abbas Ali Abdulhassan , Hassouni Anwar Abdul Kareem
Published: May 2024

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the relationship between banking stability and market value in the Iraqi banking sector, exploring how the stability of banks impacts their market capitalization. Methodology: The study employs a quantitative approach, utilizing financial ratios such as return on assets, equity/assets, and the z-score index to quantify banking stability. Market value is measured using banks' share prices and outstanding shares. A sample of 17 Iraqi banks is analyzed over a four-year period, employing statistical analysis to examine the relationship between banking stability and market value. Results: The findings reveal a positive relationship between banking stability and market value. Banks with strong risk management practices, adequate capital buffers, and effective regulatory oversight inspire greater confidence among depositors and investors, translating into higher market valuations. Conversely, banks facing poor governance, high non-performing loans, and thin capital cushions struggle to achieve stability, eroding their market value. Theoretical Contribution: The study contributes to the existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the crucial role of banking stability in shaping market valuations. It highlights the importance of sound banking practices, regulatory frameworks, and risk management in enhancing investor confidence and, ultimately, the market value of banks. Practical Implications: The findings offer insights for policymakers, regulators, and financial institutions in Iraq and other regions. Promoting banking stability through enhanced prudential oversight, governance practices, risk management capabilities, and financial inclusion can favorably impact the market valuation and development of the banking system.
Does air pollution motivate organisations to adopt environmental management accounting practices? Evidence from South Africa
Authors: Nyahuna Thomas , Doorasamy Mishelle , Baldavoo Kiran
Published: May 2024

This paper identifies the extent of air pollution in motivating companies to implement environmental management accounting (EMA) practices in 67 mining and cement companies listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE), South Africa, from 2012 to 2021. Pooled ordinary least squares regression is applied to analyse the data. EMA is proxied by environmental training, environmental audits and energy efficiency, while air pollution is measured based on the air quality index (AQI). The results show that air pollution is essential for companies to adopt EMA practices. This means that when air quality declines within a company’s locality, a company proactively adopts EMA practices. This suggests that air pollution is a key basis of companies' adoption of EMA, as predicted by the legitimacy theory. The study includes three control variables: size, return on assets (ROA) and number of years listed on JSE. Two control variables, namely Size and ROA, portray a positive and significant effect on adopting EMA from air pollution. This portrays that a financially stable company tends to submit to air pollution and use EMA to counter the pollution. In contrast, as the number of years increases for companies listed on JSE, EMA will likely be adopted less to reduce air pollution.