bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the circulating sphingolipidome response to a single high-intensity interval training session within healthy females and males in their twenties (SphingoHIIT): Protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Carrard Justin , Angst Thomas , Weber Nadia , Bienvenue Joëlle , Infanger Denis , Streese Lukas , Hinrichs Timo , Croci Ilaria , Schmied Christian , Gallart-Ayala Hector , Höchsmann Christoph , Koehler Karsten , Hanssen Henner , Ivanisevic Julijana , Schmidt-Trucksäss Arno
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Growing scientific evidence indicates that sphingolipids predict cardiometabolic risk, independently of and beyond traditional biomarkers such as low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. To date, it remains largely unknown if and how exercise, a simple, low-cost, and patient-empowering modality to optimise cardiometabolic health, influences sphingolipid levels. The SphingoHIIT study aims to assess the response of circulating sphingolipid species to a single session of high-intensity interval training (HIIT).

Methods: This single-centre randomised controlled trial (RCT) will last 11 days per participant and aim to include 32 young and healthy individuals aged 20-29 (50% females). Participants will be randomly allocated to the HIIT (n= 16) or control groups (physical rest, n= 16). Participants will self-sample fasted dried blood spots for three consecutive days before the intervention (HIIT versus rest) to determine baseline sphingolipid levels. Dried blood spots will also be collected at five time points (2, 15, 30, 60min, and 24h) following the intervention (HIIT versus rest). To minimise the dietary influence, participants will receive a standardised diet for four days, starting 24 hours before the first dried blood sampling. For females, interventions will be timed to fall within the early follicular phase to minimise the menstrual cycle's influence on sphingolipid levels. Finally, physical activity will be monitored for the whole study duration using a wrist accelerometer.

Ethics and dissemination: The Ethics Committee of Northwest and Central Switzerland approved this protocol (ID 2022–00513). Findings will be disseminated in scientific journals and meetings.

Trial Registration The trial was registered on www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT05390866, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05390866) on May 25, 2022.
Local diagnostics of aurora presence based on intelligent analysis of geomagnetic data
Authors: Vorobev Andrey , Soloviev Anatoly , Pilipenko Vyacheslav , Vorobeva Gulnara , Gainetdinova Aliya , Lapin Aleksandr , Belahovskiy Vladimir , Roldugin Alexey
Published: June 2023

Despite the existing variety of approaches to monitoring space weather and geophysical parameters in the auroral oval region, the issue of effective prediction and diagnostics of auroras as a special state of the upper ionosphere at high latitudes remains virtually unresolved.

In this paper, we explore the possibility of local diagnostics of auroras through mining of geomagnetic data from ground-based sources. We assess the significance of indicative variables and their statistical relationship.

So, for example, the application of Bayesian inference to the data from the Lovozero geophysical station for 2012–2020 has shown that the dependence of a posteriori probability of observing auroras in the optical range on the state of geomagnetic parameters is logarithmic, and the degree of its significance is inversely proportional to the discrepancy between empirical data and approximating function.

The accuracy of the approach to diagnostics of aurora presence based on the random forest method is at least 86 % when using several local predictors and ~80 % when using several global geomagnetic activity indices characterizing the geomagnetic field disturbance in the auroral zone.

In conclusion, we discuss promising ways to improve the quality metrics of diagnostic models and their scope.
Cosmic ray fluctuations and MHD waves in the solar wind
Authors: Starodubtsev Sergei , Zverev Anton , Gololobov Peter , Grigoryev Vladislav
Published: June 2023

During large-scale solar wind disturbances, variations in galactic cosmic rays with periods from several minutes to 2–3 hours, which are called cosmic ray fluctuations in the scientific literature, often occur. Such fluctuations are not observed in the absence of disturbances. Since cosmic rays are charged particles, their modulation in the heliosphere occurs mainly under the influence of the interplanetary magnetic field, or rather its turbulent part — MHD waves. In order to adequately describe the relationship between their fluctuation spectra, it is necessary to be able to isolate a certain type of MHD waves from direct measurements of the interplanetary medium parameters. In this paper, we consider some methods for determining the contribution of three solar wind MHD turbulence branches, namely, Alfvén, fast, and slow magnetosonic waves corresponding to the turbulence spectrum inertial region frequencies 10⁻⁴<ν<10⁻¹ Hz, at which cosmic ray fluctuations are observed, to the observed power spectra of interplanetary magnetic field modulus fluctuations. To do this, we apply the methods of spectral and polarization analysis. In the absence of measurement data on SW parameters, to identify the type of MHD turbulence we use the known wave polarization properties that Alfvén and magnetosonic waves are polarized in different planes relative to the plane containing the average IMF vector and wave vector.

Our results show that with the correct determination of the spectra of three MHD wave types, their sum, within the limits of errors, agrees well with the observed spectra of the interplanetary magnetic field modulus, and a small difference can be attributed to static inhomogeneities and oscillations frozen into plasma, as well as to various discontinuities that are always inevitably present in the solar wind.
The Burden Experience of Family Caregiver of Older Adults with Chronic Illness
Authors: Yustisia Nova , Aprilatutini Titin , Utama Tuti Anggriani , Masdar Mahmasoni
Published: June 2023

Purpose: This study aims to find out further about the burden on families in undertaking caregiving for the elderly with chronic illnesses. Methods: A qualitative study was developed using in-depth interviews with 12 family caregivers selected by purposive sampling in July 2022. The thematic analysis was then carried out using the Colaizzi method, and N-Vivo 12 Qualitative Data Analysis Software was used to assist with the content analysis. Results: The result from the experience interview analysis of caregivers participating in this study were 54 codes which were categorized into thirteen categories. Then, they were derived into four themes, as follows: 1) Physical burden of the caregivers for the elderly with chronic illness, 2) Psychological burden of the caregivers for the elderly with chronic illness, 3) Obstacle of caregivers for the elderly with chronic illness, 4) The state of caregivers who perform caregiving for the elderly with chronic illness. Conclusion: The experience of caregivers in undertaking caregiving for the elderly with chronic disease has many obstacles, such as physical, psychological, and economic burdens. Caregivers often find positive aspects of their experiences while caregiving for the elderly, although their burden also constantly increases. Health facilities should pay serious attention to family caregivers and facilitate programs that can help reduce the burden on family caregivers.
Factors Related to Diabetes Self-Care among Immigrants in the United States: A Scoping Review
Authors: Kim Jung Eun
Published: June 2023

Purpose: The purpose of this scoping review was to explore related factors in diabetes self-care among immigrants in the U.S. Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing chronic illnesses, but little is known about factors in self-care among minority immigrants in the U.S. Methods: The Arksey and O’Malley (2005) methodological framework guided this review, which examined 16 articles, including qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods designs. PRISMA guidelines were used with five Databases. Search terms included: immigrants in the U.S., type 2 diabetes, self-care, and self-management. Results: Factors related to diabetes self-care among immigrants were identified: (1) changed dietary lifestyle, (2) low economic and health insurance, (3) social support and resources, (4) low English proficiency, (5) psychological contexts, and (6) gender roles. Conclusion: Given the culturally unique related factors in diabetes self-care among immigrants, healthcare professionals must be knowledgeable and responsive to the ethnic minority immigrants’ needs to promote effective diabetes self-care.
A rare case of stroke as a complication after percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy in a patient with intermediate-high risk pulmonary embolism and patent foramen ovale
Authors: López-Rubio Marina , Gómez-Tórtola Aurora , Sousa-Casasnovas Iago , García-Carreño Jorge , Vales-Montero Marta , Oblitas Crhistian Mario , Demelo-Rodríguez Pablo , Galeano-Valle Francisco
Published: June 2023

We present an extremely rare case of a patient with intermediate-high risk pulmonary embolism treated with percutaneous mechanical thrombectomy, complicated with stroke as a form of paradoxical embolism through a previously unknown patent foramen ovale. We reviewed the literature for indications, efficacy, and safety of this procedure, as well as for experience on this technique in patients with patent foramen ovale.
INTERDISCIPLINARIDADE POR MEIO DAS TECNOLOGIAS DA INFORMAÇÃO E COMUNICAÇÃO: um estudo em cursos de Administração e Ciências Contábeis em Boa Vista, Roraima
Authors: Ribeiro Janaína Aparecida Costa , Mocarzel Marcelo Siqueira Maia Vinagre
Published: June 2023

A presente pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar de que maneira as Tecnologias da Informação e Comunicação (TIC) podem contribuir para que a interdisciplinaridade ocorra no Ensino Superior, em especial nos cursos de Bacharelado em Administração e Ciências Contábeis do Centro Universitário Estácio da Amazônia, cidade de Boa Vista – Roraima (RR). Realizou-se uma pesquisa qualitativa de caráter exploratório, a partir da metodologia de estudo de caso, recorrendo aos procedimentos técnicos de revisão bibliográfica, análise documental e aplicação de questionários a estudantes e entrevistas com docentes. Concluiu-se que o uso das TIC, na visão dos alunos e professores, pode contribuir para superar as barreiras disciplinares e promover inovações nos cursos de graduação em administração e contabilidade, desde que seu uso tenham uma perspectiva crítica e formativa.
JUSTIÇA JUVENIL - DA PUNIÇÃO À RESTAURAÇÃO: CAMINHOS PARA A IMPLEMENTAÇÃO DA JUSTIÇA RESTAURATIVA A SITUAÇÕES DE ADOLESCENTES EM CONFLITO COM A LEI NO BRASIL / JUVENILE JUSTICE - FROM PUNISHMENT TO RESTORATION: WAYS TO IMPLEMENT RESTORATIVE JUSTICE IN SITUATIONS OF ADOLESCENTS IN CONFLICT WITH THE LAW IN BRAZIL
Authors: Moreira Nelson Camatta , Lorenzoni Lara Ferreira , Binda Filho Douglas Luis , Lemos Letícia Pereira
Published: June 2023

Resumo: Apesar de avanços conquistados no Sistema de Justiça Juvenil, ainda persistem marcas retributivas e compensatórias muito fortes que pouco contribuem para a efetiva ressocialização do jovem em conflito com a lei. O presente estudo, por meio de pesquisa de natureza qualitativa, com investigação bibliográfica e documental, valendo-se do método hermenêutico-fenomenológico, investiga em quais pontos a abordagem da Justiça Restaurativa pode melhorar o tratamento dado aos menores infratores no contexto brasileiro. Em um primeiro momento, são analisadas as categorias ato infracional, medidas socioeducativas e remissão. Em seguida, exploram-se as possibilidades da Justiça Restaurativa no âmbito da Justiça Juvenil brasileira, a fim de compreender em que esse sistema efetivamente influencia no tratamento de menores infratores. Conclui-se que a Justiça Restaurativa Juvenil é um campo de potencialidades para o desenvolvimento de uma solução que atenda melhor tanto as vítimas quanto os menores infratores e a comunidade.Palavras-chave: Sistema de Justiça Juvenil; Justiça Restaurativa; Adolescente em conflito com a lei. Abstract: Despite the advances achieved in the Juvenile Justice System, there are still very strong retributive and compensatory marks that contribute little to the effective resocialization of young people in conflict with the law. The present article, through qualitative research, employing bibliographical and documental investigation, and adopting the hermeneutic phenomenological method, investigates in which points the Restorative Justice approach can improve the treatment given to minor offenders in the Brazilian context. Primarily, the categories infraction, socio-educational measures and remission are analyzed. Subsequently, the possibilities of Restorative Justice within the scope of the Brazilian Juvenile Justice are explored, in order to understand how this system effectively contributes to the treatment of juvenile offenders. It is concluded that Restorative Juvenile Justice is a field of potential for the development of a solution that better serves both victims, minor offenders and the community.Keywords: Juvenile Justice System; Restorative Justice; Adolescents in conflict with the law.
The question of language criterion in narratives among ukrainian writers and ordinary Ukrainians
Authors:   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University, Hlukhovtseva Kateryna , Hlukhovtseva Iryna ,   Volodymyr Dahl East Ukrainian National University
Published: June 2023

The issue of language criteria and language choice is becoming increasingly important, although it arose long ago and worried many people. Nowadays, the choice of language is not only the choice of national identifier, but also the presentation of cultural and educational environment, evidence of respect for the language and culture of the indigenous people of Ukraine, belonging to an ethnic group that defends its independence in battle. The article analyzes the issues of language criteria and language choice in the practice of writing works of art and everyday life, actualized in the narratives of Ukrainian writers, ordinary residents of Luhansk region (mostly graduates). To do this, we use the method of describing narratives, paying attention to the theme of the narrative and the way of expressing opinions. The analysis involves mainly journalistic or, occasionally, artistic, thoughts of writers and students. Narratives about the «language criterion» in choosing the language of communication and writing works of art usually have all the marks of a journalistic style. And although they do not have a sharp plot line, as in the stories, the chain of events in the narratives are the evidence that the author selects to substantiate his opinion. Both literary and student narratives have much in common. In particular, it is the assertion of the position that language is the soul of the nation, it is a means of identifying the people, a means of communication and mastery of knowledge. Motives that refer to the native language are often related to the mother’s or father’s word, the native land. The choice of language must be conscious, then speaker feels its beauty, uniqueness, connection with culture, history. Among the motives for choosing the language of communication, students call beauty, its melodiousness; the uniqueness of the native land where the Ukrainian language is spoken. It is also important for students that language is a means and source of personal development, a means of self-identification.
Speech phonetic system of Olena Lotocka's collection of short stories «Nyni zozulia kuvala»
Authors:   Lesya Ukrainka Volyn National University, Druzhuk Iryna
Published: June 2023

Initially, the use of dialectisms in literary works was provoked by the writer's linguistic experience. In the XX – at the beginning of the XXI century spoken language acquires the status of a stylistic device in literary texts. One of such authors is Olena Lototska. Olena Lototska was born in the village of Krupove, Dubrovytsia district, Rivne region. This dialect belongs to the middle-polissian dialect of the northern dialect. The texts of the collection «Nyni zozulia kuvala» meticulously reproduces the peculiarities of vocalism and consonantism of speech, there are no inaccuracies and duplicities in the reproduction of dialectal phenomena. O. Lototska demonstrates the specifics of the reflection *о, *е, *ĕ, *ę, *и (і) and *ы in the modern Krupovets dialect. The peculiarities of the functioning of the system of consonantism are primarily related to the load of soft consonant variants.
Synonymy of general names of clothing in Ukrainian eastern steppe colloquialisms
Authors:   SHEE ", Klymenko Nataliia ,   Donetsk National Technical University"
Published: June 2023

The article focuses on the peculiarities of lexical synonymy in Eastern steppe dialects based on the material of one lexical-semantic group – common names of clothes. The source of the research is factual material recorded from dialect speakers of different age categories at the end of the 20th and beginning of the 21st centuries in the dialects of the settlements of Donetsk region. Lexical doubletness (or absolute synonyms) is defined as the most common type of synonymous relations in the segment of dialect vocabulary under analysis. The reasons for the functioning of a significant number of absolute synonyms in the speech have been established. The influence of different Ukrainian dialects on the formation of the lexical system of newly created eastern steppe dialects is analysed as the main factor in the functioning of a significant number of doublet-synonymous common names of clothes. It is found out that the occurrence of a significant number of doublets is also due to the influence of the literary language and is caused by internal dialectal modifications that occur in Eastern steppe dialects. Continuity of nominative processes in the newly created dialects of Donetsk region is manifested not only in the increase in the number of lexical doublets as a result of interdialectal contacts or the influence of the literary language, but also in the subsequent processes of semantic and stylistic differentiation of doublet names. This has led to the active functioning of semantic and stylistic synonyms in the dialects in question. Appearance of a significant number of synonymous common names of clothes is determined by significant variations in the semantic structure of the nomen in the newly created Eastern steppe dialects.
The significance of dialectal lexicography for disclosure and description of the associative word-forming potential of noun stems
Authors:   Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University, Hutsulyak Tetiana
Published: June 2023

This research reveals the important role of dialectal word-formation in realizing the associative word-formation potential of the noun stems of the Ukrainian language. The importance of dialectal dictionary materials for establishing synonymous word-formation models inherent in figurative derivation is emphasized. This approach helps to show as fully as possible the potentialities of the Ukrainian language in the formation of word-forming synonyms. Figurative derivatives, evidenced by dialectal word-formation, are an integral part of lexical units that help to most completely describe the system of figurative derivational relations and organize the derived words into word-forming paradigms or nests. A significant base of derived units (nouns, adjectives, verbs, and adverbs) enabled to reveal the important role of dialectal figurative derivatives in the formation of separate zones (substantive, adjectival, verbal, or adverbial) of lexical and word-forming figurative paradigms with nounvertices гак (hook), лопух (burdock), сітка (mesh), сокира (axe), цибуля (onion), цап (goat). It has been established that dialectal derivatives illustrate the possible emergence of various types of figurative representations (metaphorical, metonymic, figurative-paradoxical), objectified in the two-level content o language units and in the peculiarities of their formal structure.
Language-style features of modern lullabies
Authors:   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University, Bezgodova Nadiia , Kolesnykova Larysa ,   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University
Published: June 2023

The article analyzes linguistic stylistic features of lullabies. They are an integral part of culture, a condition for the formation of personality, preservation of national identity, unity of mother and child, as well as a tool for education and formation of consciousness. Lullabies are a specific cultural phenomenon that captures and reflects the system of family and generally accepted values, ethnically determined types of behavior and mood. The analysis of scientific works provides grounds for studying lullabies from the point of view of folklore, regional features, their moral, psychological and pedagogical influence, thematic and plot diversity, as well as the ability to communicate. It is noted that modern lullabies have preserved ancient traditions, magical function, emotionality, simplicity and ease of perception, but reflect the events of the tragic present in a new way. Undoubtedly, the war forced to review the subject matter and expressive possibilities of texts for children. Modern authors actively use diminutiveness and special forms of address in the texts of lullabies, which contributes to the formation of a positive mood, creates a trusting atmosphere of conversation and facilitates the perception of life's problems.
Psychometric proprieties of the Arabic Cambridge worry scale among pregnant women
Authors: Mohammad Khitam I , Hayajneh Waleed , Aldalaykeh M , Rababa Mohammad , Alafi Khaled K , Creedy DK , Gamble J , Al Bashtawy Mohammed , Abdullah Alkawaldeh , Asem Abdalrahim
Published: June 2023

Background/Aims

The reliability and validity of an Arabic version of the Cambridge worry scale have not been established among Arabic-speaking women. The aim of this study was to validate the Arabic version of the scale with a sample of pregnant women in Jordan.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with pregnant women (n=369) in their third trimester. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were conducted to explore the underlying structure of the Arabic scale.

Results

The exploratory factor analysis suggested a four-factors construct jointly accounting for 83.7% of variance. The factors were sociomedical, socioeconomic, health of the mother/others and baby, and relationships. The confirmatory factor analysis supported a four-factor model with a root mean square error of approximation of 0.073. The alpha coefficient for the Arabic subscales ranged from 0.86–0.97.

Conclusions

The Arabic version of the scale is a valid and reliable measure of common worries during pregnancy. It can provide valuable information on common concerns experienced by Jordanian women and guide psychosocial care. Understanding women's concerns will enable healthcare professionals to provide assistance and support, as well as to better meet pregnancy-related and psychosocial needs of pregnant women.
What's in a post nominal?
Authors: Silver Rebecca
Published: June 2023

Rebecca Silver highlights the importance of celebrating all qualifications.
Mapping Water Contamination
Authors: Wade Andrew
Published: June 2023

Device helping to protect people in rural Colombia
Predicting Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes based on Maternal Serum Markers in Quad Test
Authors:   Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ratchaburi Hospital, Ratchaburi, Thailand, Suwanwanich Morakot
Published: June 2023

OBJECTIVE To compare adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) between low-risk and high-risk serum quadruple test for aneuploidy screening. METHODS This cohort design study screened pregnant women who had undergone quad test serum screening in Ratchaburi province, Thailand. The sample of 400 women was divided into two groups, low-risk quad test (n=200) and high-risk quad test (n=200) using random allocation software. Participants were followed up for final outcomes and compared for APOs. The data were analyzed using binary logistic regression analysis and risk ratios. RESULTS Of a total of 1,891 pregnant women, 206 (10.8%) had APOs. Of the women with APOs, 92 (46%) had high-risk quad test results and 32 (16%) were in the low-risk quad test group. The incidence of preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and chromosome abnormality in the high-risk quad test group were all statistically significantly higher in the high-risk quad test group than in the low-risk quad test group (p = 0.013, 0.001, 0.043 respectively). The high-risk quad test group also had a higher incidence of preterm birth, abortion, gestational diabetic mellitus in high-risk quad test group, but the differences were non-statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS High-risk serum quad test results can help predict the risk of APOs such as preeclampsia, IUGR and chromosome abnormality. KEYWORDS quad test, maternal serum marker, adverse pregnancy outcome
Expression of Heat Shock Protein 30 in Talaromyces marneffei during Phase Transition and in Response to Heat and Oxidative Stresses
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Jundra Nuntawat , Kummasook Aksarakorn ,   Unit of Excellence in Infectious Disease, Department of Medical Technology, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Phayao, Payao, Thailand ABSTRACT, Pongpom Monsicha ,   Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai
Published: June 2023

OBJECTIVE Heat shock protein 30 (Hsp30) has been identified as an immunogenic, yeast phase-specific protein in Talaromyces marneffei. The purpose of this study was to investigate how the hsp30 gene and Hsp30 protein are expressed during phase transition and in response to heat and oxidative stress exposure. METHODS Several sequence analysis tools were employed to predict hsp30 control elements and to determine the subcellular localization of Hsp30. In the phase transition experiment, Talaromyces marneffei conidia were cultivated at two different temperatures, 25 °C and 37 °C. Subsequently, stress response tests were conducted by subjecting the yeast cells to heat at 42 °C and by treating them with hydrogen peroxide. The levels of the hsp30 transcript and its protein were measured using real-time RT-PCR and western immunoblot analysis, respectively. RESULTS The sequence analysis revealed the presence of heat response element (HRE), stress responsive element (STRE), and xenobiotic responsive element (XRE), which are typically involved in regulating hsp genes. A web-based tool predicted that Hsp30 protein is localized in cytoplasm, nucleus, and cell membrane. The hsp30 transcript and Hsp30 protein were highly clearly detected in both yeast cells and conidia. Furthermore, the hsp30 transcript in yeast cells was upregulated following heat shock at 42° C and exposure to hydrogen peroxide. These findings indicate that Hsp30 plays a crucial role in assisting the yeast phase of T. marneffei to cope with heat and oxidative stresses. CONCLUSIONS Hsp30 is a protein specific to the conidial and yeast phases of T. marneffei. It likely performs a conserved chaperone function during yeast growth and plays a significant role in stress response by mitigating protein aggregation issues. KEYWORDS Talaromyces marneffei, heat shock protein 30, expression
Fish Oil-Induced Elevated International Normalized Ratio in Patients Taking Warfarin: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors:   The College of Pharmacotherapy of Thailand, Nonthaburi, Tongkate Karatpetch , Boonmuang Pornwalai ,   Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Silpakorn University, Nakorn Pathom, Nulsopapon Parnrada ,   Department of Pharmacy, Phramongkutklao Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand
Published: June 2023

Warfarin is an oral anticoagulant commonly used to prevent thromboembolism. Its pharmacodynamics can be affected by interactions with other drugs and dietary supplements, although there is only limited information available on these interactions. One dietary supplement that has been associated with increased international normalized ratio (INR) levels, potentially leading to supratherapeutic levels, is fish oil. However, the data available on this interaction are not extensive. This case study focused on a sixty-nine years old Thai female who was prescribed warfarin at a weekly dose of 30 milligrams (maintaining an INR range of 2.5-3.5) to prevent thromboembolism resulting from atrial fibrillation (AF) following a mechanical valve replacement at the mitral position. The patient began taking fish oil supplements for a period of 2 months. After initiating the fish oil supplement in addition to the warfarin, the patient’s INR had increased from 2.94 to 4.13, although no bleeding symptoms were observed. When combining fish oil with warfarin, it is important for medical professionals to exercise caution and to monitor the INR levels in all cases to ensure safety and optimize efficacy. KEYWORDS warfarin, fish oil, dietary supplement
Influence of dry season on social wasp communities (Hymenoptera: Polistinae) in Deciduous Forest
Authors: Jacques Gabriel de Castro , Barbosa Leonardo Dutra , Gouvêa Taiguara P. , Simões Noéle A. , Silva Gabriel T. G. , Silveira Orlando T. , Souza Marcos Magalhães
Published: June 2023

The seasonal deciduous forest, also known as dry forest, is characterized by the deciduity of tree species and two well-defined seasons which cause drastic changes in its physiognomy, and the seasonality of rainy periods directly impacts the forest’s biological communities. Social wasps (Vespidae: Polistinae) are well documented. However, some ecosystems in which they occur, such as the deciduous forest, are still subsampled. This study aimed to assess the response of social wasp communities to the dry season in a deciduous forest in the Mata Seca State Park, in the North of the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Insects were collected over 24 days divided into four field campaigns, each with six continuous days of collection (February, May, July, and November 2021), encompassing one campaign per season. All specimens were sacrificed and stored in 70% alcohol and later dry mounted for identification. The Kruskal-Wallis (KW) H test was performed to verify the difference between species richness, number of total colonies, and number of colonies of each tribe in relation to the collection station. In total, 131 colonies of eight species were located, particularly Polybia occidentalis (Olivier, 179), with 39 colonies, Polistes versicolor (Olivier, 1791), with 33, Mischocyttarus cassununga, with 21, and Protonectarina sylveirae (Saussure, 1854), with 13. Six species, five of which were from the Epiponini tribe, were collected in the four seasons. The responses of social wasps to the periods of drought in the deciduous forest vary with tribe. While Epiponini populations can keep colonies active in the dry season, Polistini cannot. Meanwhile, P. versicolor responds positively to the onset of the rainy season, increasing its population.
COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW ON HYDROPHOBIC MODIFICATION OF CONCRETE: PROGRESS AND PERSPECTIVES
Authors:   Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur, H.P., India, Sidhu Japneet , Kumar Pardeep ,   Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur, H.P., India
Published: June 2023

The inherent nature of concrete is porous, hydrophilic, and microcracked, making it susceptible to water penetration into its matrix. This is the primary source of durability concerns. Furthermore, this type of penetration leads to considerable issues for concrete structures, resulting in significant financial burdens due to regular repairs and maintenance and a reduction in the structure's lifespan. In this study, the properties, uses, and advancements of hydrophobic concrete are investigated, focusing on durability, corrosion resistance, and sustainability. The various types and techniques for producing hydrophobic concrete are explored. Additionally, the paper presents the impacts of hydrophobic treatment on concrete properties such as compressive strength, water absorption, and permeability. Potential applications of hydrophobic concrete, including use in bridges, tunnels, and marine structures, are also discussed. The review concludes by examining the benefits, challenges and limitations of hydrophobic concrete technology, including aspects like cost-effectiveness, compatibility with other construction materials, and potential environmental repercussions. In summary, this review highlights the potential of hydrophobic concrete to transform the construction industry by offering enduring and sustainable solutions to water-related issues.
EFFECT OF WATER SATURATION ON STABILITY OF A HILL SLOPE: MALIN CASE STUDY
Authors:   College of Engineering Pune, Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Department, Shivajinagar, Pune, India, Sudani Prashant , Patil Kailas ,   College of Engineering Pune, Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Department, Shivajinagar, Pune, India
Published: June 2023

The study presents a meticulous investigation into the catastrophic landslide that impacted Malin village in Pune district of Maharashtra, India. By employing a multi-faceted approach encompassing field, laboratory, and numerical analyses, in the study, stability governing parameters were thoroughly assessed with respect to varying levels of water saturation. Field investigation provided crucial insights into the geographical profile, field density, slope strata, and representative soil sample acquired from hill slopes. Furthermore, extensive laboratory investigations were conducted to gain a comprehensive understanding of the role of stability governing parameters under different water saturation levels. The limit equilibrium method was employed for numerical simulation to rigorously evaluate slope stability. The results revealed the significant influence of increased water saturation on stability governing parameters, leading to slope instability, which was confirmed by numerical simulation. The study further established that excessive rainfall triggered the landslide, saturating the soil mass and deteriorating the stability governing parameters, ultimately leading to instability. The findings of this study offer valuable insights for mitigating landslides and can be instrumental in developing effective monitoring and warning systems.
Perspectives on and the road towards 100  Gb/s TDM PON with intensity-modulation and direct-detection
Authors: Bonk Rene , Harstead Ed , Borkowski Robert , Houtsma Vincent , Lefevre Yannick , Mahadevan Amitkumar , van Veen Dora , Verplaetse Michiel , Walklin Sheldon
Published: June 2023

We assess the status of current generation 25G and 50G time division multiplexed passive optical network (TDM PON) technologies based on leveraging the cost efficiencies of the Ethernet intra-datacenter ecosystem. As a first step towards 100G TDM PON, we predict the real-world impact of a flexible modulation enhancement to 50G PON, whereby four-level pulse amplitude modulation (PAM4) symbols can be transmitted at the same symbol rate as 50 Gb/s PAM2, but only where excess margins permit. We find that sufficient margins are likely to exist to allow for a majority of future 50G PON optical network units to operate at 100 Gb/s PAM4. Next, we look at the options for a 100G PON capable of supporting the full loss budget and reach requirements. There is no technical risk if coherent technology is adopted, but intensity-modulation and direct-detection (IM-DD) will provide lower complexity, lower cost, and lower power dissipation. We evaluate this option and conclude that by following IM-DD Ethernet optics to 100 GBd, single wavelength IM-DD will continue to be feasible for 100G PON and will be a strong contender for the next generation of PON after 50 Gb/s.
Mode-group selective photonic lanterns for multiplexing multi-order orbital angular momentum modes
Authors: Chen Liang , Guo Huiyi , Chen Siyu , Wang Zhi , Liu Yan-ge
Published: June 2023

The lack of research on photonic lanterns multiplexing multi-order orbital angular momentum (OAM) modes hinders the development of OAM space division multiplexing systems. In this paper, an annular multicore photonic lantern (AMCPL) for multiplexing several OAM mode groups is proposed and demonstrated. Comprehensive simulations are carried out to investigate the effect of the multicore arrangements on the crosstalk (XT) between different OAM mode groups. Further optimization provides an inverted multicore arrangement of the OAM AMCPL with balanced XT between high-order OAM mode groups with topological charges |l| = 2 to 5 for the first time, of which the highest XT between target mode groups does not exceed -27.20 dB at wavelengths from 1300 nm to 1600 nm, and mode conversion efficiencies of all target mode groups exceed 99.5%. Furthermore, a quantum interpretation is given to reveal the characteristics of the evolution of the supermodes along the taper of the OAM AMCPL, which has not been reported.
Method and system for simultaneously measuring six degrees of freedom motion errors of a rotary axis based on a semiconductor laser
Authors: Ma Dong , Li JiaKun , Feng Qibo , Zhao YuQiong , Cui Jianying , Wu Lihong
Published: June 2023

The rotary axis is the basis of rotational motion. The motion errors of a rotary axis have an extremely important impact on the accuracy of precision machining measuring equipment such as CNC machines, robot manipulators, and laser trackers. It is a difficult problem to realise the fast and precision simultaneous measurement of multi-degree-of-freedom motion errors of a rotary axis. Therefore, a novel method for the simultaneous measurement of six-degree-of-freedom motion errors of a rotary axis by a single-mode fiber coupled semiconductor laser is proposed in this paper. The corresponding system is developed, which has the advantages of high measurement efficiency, simple structure and low cost. A phase-solving method taking the advantages of both the eight-subdivision and the Cordic algorithm is proposed to solve the phase of interference signal, cannot only realize the high-resolution solving of the current signal phase but also quickly obtain high-precision interferometric results. A series of experiments were carried out on the developed system. An experimental system was built and a series of experiments were performed. The experimental results show that the standard deviation of stability for 1 hour of the six-degree-of-freedom measurement is 0.03 µm, 0.02 µm, 0.03 µm, 0.10′′, 0.05′′ and 0.03′′, respectively. The repeatability deviation of measuring a rotary axis is ±0.16 µm, ± 0.29 µm, ± 0.25 µm, ± 0.65′′, ± 0.62′′ and ±13.42′′, respectively. The maximum deviation of comparison with standard instruments is 0.46 µm, 1.00 µm, 0.49 µm, 1.06′′, 1.53′′ and 0.74′′, respectively. It provides a low-cost and high-precision measurement method for simultaneous measurement of six-degree-of-freedom motion errors of rotary axis of precision machining and measuring equipment.
Physics-guided neural network for channeled spectropolarimeter spectral reconstruction
Authors: Huang Chan , Liu Huanwen , Wu Su , Jiang Xiaoyun , Zhou Leiming , Hu Jigang
Published: June 2023

A reconstruction method incorporates the complete physical model into a traditional deep neural network (DNN) is proposed for channeled spectropolarimeter (CSP). Unlike traditional DNN-based methods that need to employ training datasets, the method starts from randomly initialized parameters which are constrained by the CSP physical model. It iterates through the gradient descent algorithm to obtain the estimation of the DNN parameters and then to obtain the mapping relationship. As a result, it eliminates the need for thousands of sets of ground truth data, while also leveraging the physical model to achieve high-precision reconstruction. As seen, the physical model participates in the optimization process of DNN parameters, thus achieving physical guidance for the DNN output results. Based on the characteristic of the network, we designate this method as the physics-guided neural network (PGNN). Both simulations and experiments demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed method. Our approach will further promote the practical application of CSP in a wider range of fields.
Growth of sub-10 nm fluorescent nanodiamonds
Authors: Alzahrani Yahya A. , Alkahtani Masfer H.
Published: June 2023

Small and rounded-shape fluorescent nanodiamonds (FNDs) are of special interest for many promising applications, especially in biology. It was recently shown multiple times that rounded and small nanodiamonds (NDs) with a size less than 10 nm can easily be grown using hydrothermal growth experiments. As the growth of diamond nanocrystals at mild growth conditions is still controversial, it was important to prove the real diamond growth by creation of color centers that are unique to diamond. In this work, we report a hydrothermal growth of small NDs at low temperatures (220
o
C) and the saturated vapor pressure of water using a simple and available hydrocarbon (glucose). Small and rounded NDs with a size less than 10 nm were grown and then made fluorescent by appropriate ion implantation and post-annealing. In particular nitrogen-vacancy (NV) and silicon-vacancy (SiV) color centers were created in the grown small NDs to validate that the grown crystals are in fact cubic diamond. Because of its simplicity, and ability to grow high-quality diamond, this novel growth technique holds promise for the most demanding applications to biology.
PINK1: From Parkinson’s disease to mitophagy and back again
Authors: O’Callaghan Benjamin , Hardy John , Plun-Favreau Helene
Published: June 2023

The genetics of Parkinson’s disease has been key to unravelling the PINK1-dependent mitophagy process. Here, we discuss the implications of a 2010 PLOS Biology paper that shed light on the functional importance of PINK1 in the mitophagy cascade.
Laminar specificity of the auditory perceptual awareness negativity: A biophysical modeling study
Authors: Fernandez Pujol Carolina , Blundon Elizabeth G. , Dykstra Andrew R.
Published: June 2023

How perception of sensory stimuli emerges from brain activity is a fundamental question of neuroscience. To date, two disparate lines of research have examined this question. On one hand, human neuroimaging studies have helped us understand the large-scale brain dynamics of perception. On the other hand, work in animal models (mice, typically) has led to fundamental insight into the micro-scale neural circuits underlying perception. However, translating such fundamental insight from animal models to humans has been challenging. Here, using biophysical modeling, we show that the auditory awareness negativity (AAN), an evoked response associated with perception of target sounds in noise, can be accounted for by synaptic input to the supragranular layers of auditory cortex (AC) that is present when target sounds are heard but absent when they are missed. This additional input likely arises from cortico-cortical feedback and/or non-lemniscal thalamic projections and targets the apical dendrites of layer-5 (L5) pyramidal neurons. In turn, this leads to increased local field potential activity, increased spiking activity in L5 pyramidal neurons, and the AAN. The results are consistent with current cellular models of conscious processing and help bridge the gap between the macro and micro levels of perception-related brain activity.
Dynamic recycling of extracellular ATP in human epithelial intestinal cells
Authors: Saffioti Nicolas Andres , Alvarez Cora Lilia , Bazzi Zaher , Gentilini María Virginia , Gondolesi Gabriel Eduardo , Schwarzbaum Pablo Julio , Schachter Julieta
Published: June 2023

Intestinal epithelial cells play important roles in the absorption of nutrients, secretion of electrolytes and food digestion. The function of these cells is strongly influenced by purinergic signalling activated by extracellular ATP (eATP) and other nucleotides. The activity of several ecto-enzymes determines the dynamic regulation of eATP. In pathological contexts, eATP may act as a danger signal controlling a variety of purinergic responses aimed at defending the organism from pathogens present in the intestinal lumen.

In this study, we characterized the dynamics of eATP on polarized and non-polarized Caco-2 cells. eATP was quantified by luminometry using the luciferin-luciferase reaction. Results show that non-polarized Caco-2 cells triggered a strong but transient release of intracellular ATP after hypotonic stimuli, leading to low micromolar eATP accumulation. Subsequent eATP hydrolysis mainly determined eATP decay, though this effect could be counterbalanced by eATP synthesis by ecto-kinases kinetically characterized in this study. In polarized Caco-2 cells, eATP showed a faster turnover at the apical vs the basolateral side.

To quantify the extent to which different processes contribute to eATP regulation, we created a data-driven mathematical model of the metabolism of extracellular nucleotides. Model simulations showed that eATP recycling by ecto-AK is more efficient a low micromolar eADP concentrations and is favored by the low eADPase activity of Caco-2 cells. Simulations also indicated that a transient eATP increase could be observed upon the addition of non-adenine nucleotides due the high ecto-NDPK activity in these cells. Model parameters showed that ecto-kinases are asymmetrically distributed upon polarization, with the apical side having activity levels generally greater in comparison with the basolateral side or the non-polarized cells.

Finally, experiments using human intestinal epithelial cells confirmed the presence of functional ecto-kinases promoting eATP synthesis. The adaptive value of eATP regulation and purinergic signalling in the intestine is discussed.
Spatio-temporal variability and rainfall trend affects seasonal calendar of maize production in southern central Rift Valley of Ethiopia
Authors: Markos Daniel , Worku Walelign , Mamo Girma
Published: June 2023

Understanding rainfall variability is important to establish crop calendar related agronomic decisions. To this end, we defined start and end of seasons, analyzed dry spell and evaluated conditional risks of alternative planting dates using a thirty years daily rainfall data across southern central rift valley of Ethiopia. Results showed that the probability of annual rainfall being greater than 1000 mm was 97, 24, 94, and 61%, in Dilla, Bilate, Shamana, and Hawassa clusters, respectively. The variability of annual total rainfall in the lowland areas of Dilla and Bilate was above 25%, whereas for Shamana and Hawassa was below 20%. Variability of seasonal rainfall during FMAM was 33.7%, which is higher than ONDJ (27.1%) and JJAS (27.9%), which could lead to maize plants suffering moisture stress during FMAM season. The onset of rains had variability of 29.2, 19.5, 17.5 and 26.5%, and also LGP showed variability of 22.8, 22.1, 21.2 and 20.3% in Shamana, Bilate, Hawassa, and Dilla clusters, respectively. Moreover Shamana, Bilate, Hawassa and Dilla clusters are hit by agricultural drought in one out of 2.61, 2.3, 2.5 and 2.5 years, respectively. Model based analysis of conditional risk of farmers planting dates also showed a success rate of less than 10, 7, 40 and 63% for maize variety in Shamana, Bilate, Hawassa and Dilla clusters, respectively. However, the success rate of risk taker farmers’ is higher than anticipated by the model. The farmers who take risk were encouraged in Shamana cluster by local edaphic, physiographic, socioeconomic and climatic differences. Hence, there is a need to seek real time local agro-metrological advisory and follow the necessary tactical and strategic farming decisions. Moreover, there is also a need to incorporate local factors with modern climate models to obtain synchronized calendar estimates.