bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early cost-utility analysis of hepatitis C virus testing for emergency department attendees in France
Authors: Noiriel Nicolas , Williams Jack
Published: February 2023

Testing for hepatitis C virus (HCV) is currently targeted towards those at high-risk in France. While universal screening was recently rejected, a growing body of research from other high-income countries suggests that HCV testing in emergency departments (ED) can be effective and cost-effective. In the absence of any studies on the effectiveness of HCV testing in ED attendees in France, this study aimed to perform an early economic evaluation of ED-based HCV testing. A Markov model was developed to simulate HCV testing in the ED versus no ED testing. The model captured costs from a French health service perspective, presented in 2020 euros, and outcomes, presented as quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), over a lifetime horizon. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICER) were calculated as costs per QALYs gained and compared to willingness-to-pay thresholds of €18,592 and €33,817 per QALY. Value of information analyses were also performed. ED testing for HCV was cost-effective at both thresholds when assuming ED prevalence of 1.1%, yielding an ICER of €3,800 per QALY. Testing remained cost-effective when the HCV prevalence amongst ED attendees remained higher than in the general population (0.3%). The maximum value of future research ranged from €10 to €79 million, depending on time horizons and willingness-to-pay thresholds. Our analysis suggests ED-based HCV testing may be cost-effective in France, although there is uncertainty due to the lack of empirical studies available. Further research is of high value, suggesting seroprevalence surveys and pilot studies in French ED settings are warranted.
Ethnic disparities in mortality and group-specific risk factors in the UK Biobank
Authors: Lee Kara Keun , Norris Emily T. , Rishishwar Lavanya , Conley Andrew B. , Mariño-Ramírez Leonardo , McDonald John F. , Jordan I. King
Published: February 2023

Despite a substantial overall decrease in mortality, disparities among ethnic minorities in developed countries persist. This study investigated mortality disparities and their associated risk factors for the three largest ethnic groups in the United Kingdom: Asian, Black, and White. Study participants were sampled from the UK Biobank (UKB), a prospective cohort enrolled between 2006 and 2010. Genetics, biological samples, and health information and outcomes data of UKB participants were downloaded and data-fields were prioritized based on participants with death registry records. Kaplan-Meier method was used to evaluate survival differences among ethnic groups; survival random forest feature selection followed by Cox proportional-hazard modeling was used to identify and estimate the effects of shared and ethnic group-specific mortality risk factors. The White ethnic group showed significantly worse survival probability than the Asian and Black groups. In all three ethnic groups, endoscopy and colonoscopy procedures showed significant protective effects on overall mortality. Asian and Black women show lower relative risk of mortality than men, whereas no significant effect of sex was seen for the White group. The strongest ethnic group-specific mortality associations were ischemic heart disease for Asians, COVID-19 for Blacks, and cancers of respiratory/intrathoracic organs for Whites. Mental health-related diagnoses, including substance abuse, anxiety, and depression, were a major risk factor for overall mortality in the Asian group. The effect of mental health on Asian mortality, particularly for digestive cancers, was exacerbated by an observed hesitance to answer mental health questions, possibly related to cultural stigma. C-reactive protein (CRP) serum levels were associated with both overall and cause-specific mortality due to COVID-19 and digestive cancers in the Black group, where elevated CRP has previously been linked to psychosocial stress due to discrimination. Our results point to mortality risk factors that are group-specific and modifiable, supporting targeted interventions towards greater health equity.
Chronic diseases and mortality among hospitalised COVID-19 patients at Bafoussam Regional Hospital in the West region of Cameroon
Authors: Nzinnou Mbiaketcha Imelda Sonia , Buh Nkum Collins , Tchio-Nighie Ketina Hirma , Njoudap Mfopou Iliasou , Nguegoue Tchokouaha Francois , Ateudjieu Jérôme
Published: February 2023

Reducing mortality among COVID-19 cases is a major challenge for most health systems worldwide. Estimating the risk of preexisting comorbidities on COVID-19 mortality may promote the importance of targeting at-risk populations to improve survival through primary and secondary prevention. This study was conducted to explore the contribution of exposure to some chronic diseases on the mortality of COVID-19. This was a case control study. The data were collected from the records of all patients hospitalised at Bafoussam Regional Hospital (BRH) from March 2020 to December 2021. A grid was used to extract data on patient history, case management and outcome of hospitalised patients. We estimated the frequency of each common chronic disease and assessed the association between suffering from all and each chronic disease (Diabetes or/and Hypertension, immunodeficiency condition, obesity, tuberculosis, chronic kidney disease) and fatal outcome of hospitalised patients by estimating crude and adjusted odd ratios and their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) using time to symptom onset and hospital admission up to three days, age range 65 years and above, health professional worker and married status as confounder’s factors. Of 645 included patients, 120(20.23%) deaths were recorded. Among these 645 patients, 262(40.62%) were males, 128(19.84%) aged 65 years and above. The mean length of stay was 11.07. On admission, 204 (31.62%) patients presented at least one chronic disease. The most common chronic disease were hypertension (HBP) 73(11.32%), followed by diabetes + HBP 62 (9.61%), by diabetes 55(8.53%) and Immunodeficiency condition 14(2.17%). Diabetes and Diabetes + HBP were associated with a higher risk of death respectively aOR = 2.71[95%CI = 1.19–6.18] and aOR = 2.07[95% CI = 1.01–4.23] but HBP did not significantly increased the risk of death. These results suggest that health authorities should prioritize these specific group to adopt primary and secondary preventive interventions against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Acute otitis media symptoms and symptom scales in research with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children
Authors: Abbott Penelope , Frede Caitlin , Hu Wendy C. Y. , Lujic Sanja , Trankle Steven , Campbell Letitia , Gunasekera Hasantha , Walsh Robyn , Leach Amanda J. , Morris Peter , Kong Kelvin , Reath Jennifer
Published: February 2023

Background

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children experience a high burden of otitis media. We collected data on symptoms associated with acute otitis media (AOM) in a clinical trial involving children receiving primary care at urban Aboriginal Medical Services. Two scales were employed to monitor symptoms over time: the AOM-Severity of Symptoms scale (AOM-SOS) and the AOM-Faces Scale (AOM-FS). This study took place at a mid-point of the un-blinded trial.

Methods

We examined symptoms at enrolment and day 7, and compared the scales for trends, and bivariate correlation (Spearman’s rho) over 14 days. Responsiveness of the scales to clinical change was determined by Friedman’s test of trend in two subgroups stratified by day 7 AOM status. We interviewed parents/carers and research officers regarding their experience of the scales and analysed data thematically.

Results

Data derived from 224 children (18 months to 16 years; median 3.6 years). Common symptoms associated with AOM at baseline were runny nose (40%), cough (38%) and irritability (36%). More than one third had no or minimal symptoms at baseline according to AOM-SOS (1-2/10) and AOM-FS scores (1-2/7). The scales performed similarly, and were moderately correlated, at all study points. Although scores decreased from day 0 to 14, trends and mean scores were the same whether AOM was persistent or resolved at day 7. Users preferred the simplicity of the AOM-FS but encountered challenges when interpreting it.

Conclusion

We found minimally symptomatic AOM was common among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children in urban settings. The AOM-SOS and AOM-FS functioned similarly. However, it is likely the scales measured concurrent symptoms related to upper respiratory tract infections, given they did not differentiate children with persistent or resolved AOM based on stringent diagnostic criteria. This appears to limit the research and clinical value of the scales in monitoring AOM treatment among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.
Localization diagnosis of low back pain in a population-based study of a Japanese mountain village
Authors: Takegami Norihiko , Akeda Koji , Yamada Junichi , Fujiwara Tatsuhiko , Nishimura Akinobu , Sudo Akihiro
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purposes of this study were to investigate 1) the location of low back pain (LBP) and 2) the relationships between the location of LBP and the LBP intensity or the quality of life (QoL) in a population-based study.

Methods

The location of LBP was categorized into four areas using palpation: midline of the lumbar region, paravertebral muscles, upper buttock, and sacroiliac joint. The extent of LBP in the situations/positions was assessed. The relationships between the location of LBP and the extent of LBP on the QoL were statistically analyzed.

Results

174 participants (average age: 72.3 years-old) were analyzed in this study. 93 participants (53.4% of the total) who had experienced LBP in the past three months were included in the LBP-positive group. Numerical rating scale (NRS) scores of the LBP-positive group were highest in the standing position. 51.6% of the LBP-positive group had LBP at the midline of the lumbar region, 40.9% at the paravertebral muscles, 28.0% at the upper buttock, and 15.1% at the sacroiliac joint. In the standing position, NRS scores of LBP at the upper buttock were significantly higher than those at the midline of the lumbar region and the paravertebral muscles (P<0.05). The Oswestry Disability Index scores of participants who had pain at the upper buttock were significantly higher than those at the midline of the lumbar region or paravertebral muscles (P<0.05).

Conclusion

Our study was the first report to investigate the location of LBP using palpation in a population-based study. LBP localization was significantly associated with LBP intensity and LBP-related QoL.
The invisible cloak: An olfactory experiment and tales of (re)enchantment
Authors: Stampoulou Elektra
Published: February 2023

If consciously wearing perfume is part of an identity construction process, then could a specifically designed olfactory costume affect the interactions of those wearing it with their environment or perhaps encourage performative behaviour? If so, could narrative components or patterns emerge from this olfactory experience? Perfume might often be described or advertised as enchanting, eerie, charming or alluring among others, scents however are rarely mentioned in fairy and folk tales, the realm of enchantment par excellence. In an effort to activate the human body and the surrounding air with a potential for narrative and explore the possibility of a relationship between scent, storytelling and performativity, I developed [___], an olfactory art piece that wafted through Athens, Greece over a period of four months (September–December 2021). [___] is a scent, given to twenty participants to wear, monitor and optionally document their reactions and those of their environment spontaneously. Following the experiment, discussions with the participants revealed compelling experiences and stories, performative behaviours, fictional accounts, characters and situations at the intersection of the mundane, the creative and the magical. [___], is a redolent experiment that explores potential relationships between bodies, smell, agency, costume, performance and (re)enchantment within the contemporary urban setting.
Organic-matter-rich Pennsylvanian Black Shales as a Source of Critical Minerals
Authors: Mastalerz Maria , Drobniak Agnieszka , Ames Philip
Published: February 2023

This study examines Pennsylvanian shales in Indiana as a potential source of selected critical elements: rare earth elements (REE), vanadium (V), zinc (Zn), arsenic (As), and cadmium (Cd). Widespread, organic-matter-rich marine Desmoinesian black shales are the main target, but other discontinuous shale horizons were also sampled in 11 locations. In total, 39 shale samples were analyzed in this study. The shales are early mature and represent the early oil generation window. The average concentrations of REE in the marine shales studied vary from 164.9 ppm in the Excello Shale to 338.7 ppm in the Carrier Mills Shale. REE distribution patterns show that most shales have REE values roughly representative of the upper continental crust (UCC). Only one sample of the Carrier Mills Shale was enriched compared to the upper continental crust (REE concentration/UCC>5). The shales are characterized by high uranium (U) content, with averages for marine shales from 70.8 ppm in the Excello Shale to 133.8 ppm in the Veale Shale. In contrast, non-marine shales grouped under “other shales” category had the lowest U concentration of 3.3 ppm. Molybdenum (Mo) concentrations in the marine shales are very high at places exceeding 1000 ppm. Among the shales studied, the Mecca Quarry Shale is the most enriched in Mo (average 1103.8 ppm), followed by the Veale Shale (876.7 ppm). The “other shales” category has the lowest Mo content (2.5 ppm) due to deposition under oxygenated conditions. The marine shales are highly enriched in Zn, As, and Cd. Specifically, the Mecca Quarry Shale is the most enriched in Zn, with some samples having content as high as 5480 ppm. Furthermore, the Excello Shale and the Veale Shale have Zn concentrations more than ten times higher than the UCC (~70 ppm). The As content is the highest in the Veal Shale, averaging 61.7 ppm, and some samples reach more than 200 ppm — highly enriched compared to 1.8 ppm in UCC. The Excello Shale, Mecca Quarry Shale, and Veale Shale are all strongly enriched in Cd (76.1, 74.2, and 49.2 ppm on average, respectively), and the Carrier Mills Shale has the lowest average value of 8.5 ppm. These data demonstrate that Pennsylvanian marine black shales are a potential resource of V, Zn, As, and Cd, whereas in non-marine shales, the concentrations of these elements are much lower. In turn, the REE potential needs further investigation; more data are needed to better understand REE concentrations and their associations.
Effect of Hot Glue Additive on the Rheological Properties of Asphalt Cement and Mixtures Performance
Authors: Ahmed Sheelan A.
Published: February 2023

In general, the physical and rheological properties of asphalt binder are directly affecting the resistance of asphalt mix to the permanent deformation (rutting), water damage, and thermal cracking. The degradation in these properties leads to severe distresses that appear in the pavement and, consequently, make the repair and maintenance very expensive. Since the modified-asphalt cement may help to minimize such aforementioned distresses, this research is established for this purpose. It aims to investigate the physical and rheological properties of modified-asphalt cement with silicone, dense silicone rubber, and ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber. Five contents for each type of hot glue are investigated; 0.4, 0.8, 1.2, 1.6, and 2% of the asphalt cement weight. Conventional asphalt cement tests such as penetration, softening point, dynamic viscosity, and ductility tests are conducted to evaluate the hot glue-modified asphalt cement properties. Moreover, the Marshall and indirect tensile strength tests are conducted to examine the effect of hot glue on the performance of the asphalt mixtures at concentrations of 0.8 and 1.6% of the asphalt cement weight. The results show that the hot glue-modified asphalt cement leads to an increase in the hardness and consistency, and a reduction in the temperature susceptibility of asphalt cement. These features lead to better Marshall stability and tensile strength ratio, as compared with the standard asphalt cement mixture.
Aristolochia hondurensis (Aristolochiaceae), a new species from Honduras
Authors: Jiménez José Esteban , Oyuela-Andino Olvin , Bonilla Josué H. , Blanco Mario A.
Published: February 2023

Aristolochia hondurensis, a new species of Aristolochia series Hexandrae subseries Hexandrae, endemic to Honduras, is described and illustrated. It is a species morphologically similar to Aristolochia anguicida, from which it is distinguished by its much larger flowers (in all dimensions) with an oblong, attenuate, erect perianth limb, perpendicular to the tube. Comments about its distribution, habitat, phenology, conservation status, and distinction from morphologically similar species, and a dichotomous key of the species present in Honduras belonging to the subseries Hexandrae are provided. The new species is known from only two populations and is not known to occur in any protected area; it is provisionally categorized as Critically Endangered (CR) according to IUCN Red List criteria. Previous reports of A. inflata for Honduras appear to be unsubstantiated by herbarium specimens.
KINETICS OF ADSORPTION OF HEAVY METALS (IRON) FROM TEXTILE INDUSTRY WASTE USING CALCIUM CARBIDE RESIDUE AS ADSORBENT
Authors: Karim Muhammad Arief , Herawati Netty , Juniar Henny
Published: February 2023

This research was conducted to study the efficiency of residual calcium carbide as an adsorbent using a batch process to remove iron (II) from textile industrial waste. In this study, the iron (II) content in textile industrial waste was synthetically made using . The effluent was characterized using a standard method (atomic absorption spectrometry), while the functional groups responsible for the Adsorption of iron to the surface of the calcium carbide residue were observed using SEM and Fourier Transform Infra-red (FTIR). The SEM findings revealed a highly porous morphology. FTIR revealed the presence of various functional groups (OH, CH, C=C, and C-C). Factors affecting Adsorption, eg, contact time, adsorbent dose, pH, and iron concentration, were also studied. The maximum iron (II) ion adsorption was observed to occur at pH 6. Kinetic studies showed a good correlation and best suited the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Langmuir and Freundlich's isotherm model was used to describe the Adsorption of iron (II) on calcium carbide residues. The data obtained from the adsorption process most closely matched the Langmuir model with a correlation value of R^2 = 0.9959 and q_e=1.697 mg/g. with a pseudo-second-order kinetic model with a correlation coefficient value (R2), which is 0.9962 for an adsorbent mass of 7.5 g. The Adsorption of iron ions from textile wastewater synthesis solution using calcium carbide residues shows a physisorption mechanism.
6-Phosphogluconate dehydrogenase inhibition arrests growth and induces apoptosis in gastric cancer via AMPK activation and oxidative stress
Authors: Chen Cheng , Du Pan , Zhang Zhenguo , Bao Di
Published: February 2023

Poor outcomes in advanced gastric cancer necessitate alternative therapeutic strategies. 6-Phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6-PGDH), an enzyme that catalyzes the decarboxylation step in the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway, has been identified as a promising therapeutic target in many cancers. In this study, we systematically investigated the expression and function of 6-PGDH in gastric cancer. We found that 6-PGDH expression and activity were aberrantly elevated in gastric cancer tissues compared to their adjacent normal tissues. 6-PGDH knockdown using two independent shRNAs resulted in minimal 6-PGDH levels and activity, decreased growth, and enhanced gastric cancer cell sensitivity to 5-flurorouracil. However, 6-PGDH knockdown did not affect the cancer cells. Mechanistic studies showed that 6-PGDH inhibition disrupted lipid biosynthesis and redox homeostasis in gastric cancer, inhibited growth, and induced apoptosis. Notably, the in vitro findings were validated using an in vivo gastric cancer xenograft mouse model. This study established that 6-PGDH is broadly elevated in gastric cancer patients and that 6-PGDH inhibition can sensitize gastric cancer cells in response to chemotherapy.
On implementation of some systems of elementary conjunctions in the class of separating contact circuits
Authors: Krasulina Elena G.
Published: February 2023

We show that the system of elementary conjunctions

Ω

n
,

2
k

=

K
0

,
…
,

K

2

k

−
1

$ \Omega_{n,2^k} = {K_0,\ldots,K_{2^{k} -1}} $

such that each conjunction depends essentially on n variables and corresponds to some codeword of a linear (n, k)-code can be implemented by a separating contact circuit of complexity at most 2
k+1 +4k(n − k) − 2. We also show that if a contact (1, 2
k
)-terminal network is separating and implements the system of elementary conjunctions

Ω

n
,

2
k

$ \Omega_{n,2^k} $

, then the number of contacts in it is at least 2
k+1 − 2.
Local limit theorem for the number of empty cells in a scheme of random equiprobable allocations
Authors: Orlov Oleg P.
Published: February 2023

A classical scheme of random equiprobable allocations of n particles into N cells is considered. We find an asymptotic formula for the probability that the number of empty cells is equal to k under the condition that n, N → ∞ in such a way that n/(N − k) is bounded and separated from 1 from below.
Ökumenischer Lagebericht 2022: Freikirchen
Authors: Triebel Lothar
Published: February 2023

Im Jahr 2022 beobachtbare Entwicklungen in Freikirchen werden zunächst anhand der Themen Ukrainekrieg, (Post-)Corona, Sexualethik und ÖRK-Vollversammlung dargestellt; dabei geht es unter anderem um Baptisten, Methodisten und Freie evangelische Gemeinden. Anschließend werden negativ wertende Medienerzeugnisse über Freikirchen analysiert. Zuletzt werden Ereignisse bei Mennoniten, Adventisten, Apostolischer Gemeinschaft, Neuapostolischer Kirche, Selbständig Evangelisch-Lutherischer Kirche und pfingstkirchlichen Pfadfinder*innen beleuchtet.
Ökumenischer Lagebericht 2022
Authors: Koy Dominik
Published: February 2023

Kein Thema beschäftigte die christlichen Konfessionen im vergangenen Jahr mehr als die Frage nach einer passenden Friedensethik in Anbetracht des Krieges in der Ukraine. Im Wesentlichen wurde dabei verhandelt, ob und wie in das Kriegsgeschehen eingegriffen werden könnte und wie man mit kriegslegitimierenden Aussagen Kyrills I. umgehen könne. An diesen Streitpunkten der ethischen Fragestellung zeigt sich, wie sich innerhalb einer Kirche bzw. binnenkonfessionell und überkonfessionell neue Konfliktpotentiale und Risiken sowie Chancen für die ökumenischen Dialoge entwickeln.
Intensification of bioprocesses with filamentous microorganisms
Authors: Dinius Anna , Kozanecka Zuzanna J. , Hoffmann Kevin P. , Krull Rainer
Published: February 2023

Many industrial biotechnological processes use filamentous microorganisms to produce platform chemicals, proteins, enzymes and natural products. Product formation is directly linked to their cellular morphology ranging from dispersed mycelia over loose clumps to compact pellets. Therefore, the adjustment and control of the filamentous cellular morphology pose major challenges for bioprocess engineering. Depending on the filamentous strain and desired product, optimal morphological shapes for achieving high product concentrations vary. However, there are currently no overarching strain- or product-related correlations to improve process understanding of filamentous production systems. The present book chapter summarizes the extensive work conducted in recent years in the field of improving product formation and thus intensifying biotechnological processes with filamentous microorganisms. The goal is to provide prospective scientists with an extensive overview of this scientifically diverse, highly interesting field of study. In the course of this, multiple examples and ideas shall facilitate the combination of their acquired expertise with promising areas of future research. Therefore, this overview describes the interdependence between filamentous cellular morphology and product formation. Moreover, the currently most frequently used experimental techniques for morphological structure elucidation will be discussed in detail. Developed strategies of morphology engineering to increase product formation by tailoring and controlling cellular morphology and thus to intensify processes with filamentous microorganisms will be comprehensively presented and discussed.
Pine bark crosslinked to cyclodextrin for the adsorption of 2-nitrophenol from an aqueous solution
Authors: Pholosi Agnes , Sanni Saheed O. , Akpotu Samson O. , Pakade Vusumzi E.
Published: February 2023

Adsorbents that are less expensive and more effective at removing organic micropollutants from wastewater have been developed through several approaches. Pine bark was treated with sodium hydroxide and then cross-linked to cyclodextrin using hexamethylene diisocyanate, in this study as an efficient adsorbent in the removal of 2-nitrophenol. FTIR, TGA and pHpzc analysis were used to characterize the biosorbent. The effects of pH, adsorbent mass, contact time and initial concentration on 2-nitrophenol removal was examined through batch adsorption studies. Pine bark crosslinked to cyclodextrin (PB-CD) surface functionalities was confirmed by FTIR analysis. It was discovered that solution pH, adsorbent mass, concentration and contact time all played a crucial role in the 2-nitrophenol uptake on PB-CD biosorbent and pine bark (PB) treated with sodium hydroxide. 2-Nitrophenol equilibrium was achieved with 0.05 g of adsorbents, with an initial concentration of 100–200 mg/dm3 at pH 5 after 60 min. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Langmuir isotherm model significantly fitted the adsorption process. The Langmuir maximum capacities for PB and PB-CD were 47.36 mg/g and 77.82 mg/g, respectively. Overall, in the removal of 2-nitrophenol from an aqueous solution, PB-CD biosorbent is more cost-effective and efficient, in comparison with previously reported biosorbents in literature.
A Social Constructionist Approach to Institutional Change: The Case of the Romanian Competition Council
Authors: Gavrilov Doina
Published: February 2023

Society has built institutions to face various problems in each area of our lives. Yet, institutions face considerable problems in fulfilling their objectives in a continuously changing world. With this in mind, the present study starts from the institutional resistance to change and searches for ways to improve efficiency and increase the positive impact on social welfare. For this, we start by looking at the competition authorities as new institutions and we study how they work and the role of communication, learning, and transparency in increasing institutional efficiency and receiving social legitimacy. The paper begins with a mixed theoretical approach to institutional change and focuses on the role of legitimacy in stimulating institutional change, and the type of institutional change for increasing efficiency. The research ends with the Romanian case study which shows the necessary aspects for making the institutional change real.
The work of tort law: Why nonconsensual access to the workplace matters?
Authors: Dorfman Avihay
Published: February 2023

Tort law does many things—it determines substantive rights, decides what counts as violating these rights, recognizes rights of repair, and grants rights of redress. Two non-instrumentalist conceptions of tort law appear to dominate how we are supposed to understand and discharge these tasks. One conception takes tort law to be the law of wrongs, whereas the other conception identifies tort law with the law of victim recourse. I argue that both conceptions (including a combination of both) mischaracterize what tort law does and what it should be doing. By contrast, the conception I shall defend—viz., the conflict theory of tort law—takes the basic task of tort law to be identifying the value of the conflict to which it responds (or which it shapes). In fact, there are three types of conflicts: inherently valuable, tolerably valuable, and valueless. Each type of conflict calls for a qualitatively different response by the law of torts. The conflict theory, I argue, changes the way we understand and determine the rights, duties, liabilities, and remedies that arise in and around tort law. I demonstrate this claim in connection with the tort of battery and then extend the analysis to capture the tort law of workplace and, in particular, trespass law as it applies to nonconsensual access to the workplace by organizers and by workers.
The history of job (in)security: Why private law theory may not save work law
Authors: Lee Sophia Z.
Published: February 2023

This Article uses a history of the push for job security in the United States during the late 20th century to assess New Private Law (NPL) theory. The history recounts the rise and fall of common law and statutory approaches to replacing at-will employment with termination for just cause only. Applying NPL theory to that history, the Article argues that NPL theorists’ current approach to defining their topic of study and distinguishing it from public law is inconsistent within and across theories. NPL theorists seek to carve out an area of law where interpersonal morality trumps legal economists’ goal of collective welfare maximization. That conceptual project depends on a coherent and consistent approach to distinguishing private from public law. Ultimately, the Article argues, NPL theorists face a more fundamental problem, however. Regardless of how one categorizes the events in this history, it shows that the common law-derived interpersonal morality at the heart of NPL theory may not strengthen worker protections in the ways at least some of its theorists hope.
Investigating the Role of RhodopsinF45LMutation in Mouse Rod Photoreceptor Signaling and Survival
Authors: Poria Deepak , Kolesnikov Alexander V. , Lee Tae Jun , Salom David , Palczewski Krzysztof , Kefalov Vladimir J.
Published: February 2023

Rhodopsin is the critical receptor molecule which enables vertebrate rod photoreceptor cells to detect a single photon of light and initiate a cascade of molecular events leading to visual perception. Recently, it has been suggested that the F45L mutation in the transmembrane helix of rhodopsin disrupts its dimerizationin vitro. To determine whether this mutation of rhodopsin affects its signaling propertiesin vivo, we generated knock-in mice expressing the rhodopsin F45L mutant. We then examined the function of rods in the mutant mice versus wild-type controls, usingin vivoelectroretinography and transretinal and single cell suction recordings, combined with morphologic analysis and spectrophotometry. Although we did not evaluate the effect of the F45L mutation on the state of dimerization of the rhodopsinin vivo, our results revealed that F45L-mutant mice exhibit normal retinal morphology, normal rod responses as measured bothin vivoandex vivo, and normal rod dark adaptation. We conclude that the F45L mutation does not affect the signaling properties of rhodopsin in its natural setting.
Synthetic embryos: a new venue in ethical research
Authors: Villalba Adrian , Rueda Jon , de Miguel Beriain Íñigo
Published: February 2023

In brief

Two independent groups have reported the development of ‘artificial embryos’. Those are in vitro models made of mouse embryonic stem cells, without the need for egg or sperm, and grown ex utero without requiring implantation. This system might open new venues in bioethical research if human cells show the ability to replicate this system.

The recent publications reported in 2022 reveal the possibility of obtaining mouse embryos without the need for egg or sperm. These ‘artificial embryos’ can recapitulate some stages of development ex utero – from neurulation to organogenesis – without implantation. Synthetic mouse embryos might serve as a valuable model to gain further insights into early developmental stages. Indeed, it is expected for these models to be replicated by employing human cells. This promising research raises ethical issues and expands the horizon of ethics in regard to the development of the human embryo. From this point of view, we state some of the new open venues for bioethical research.
Cattaneo–Christov heat flux impacts on MHD radiative natural convection of Al2O3-Cu-H2O hybrid nanofluid in wavy porous containers using LTNE
Authors: Ahmed Sameh E. , Mahdy A. , Mansour Mohamed A.
Published: February 2023

This paper aims to examine impacts of Cattaneo–Christov heat flux on the magnetohydrodynamic convective transport within irregular containers in the presence of the thermal radiation. Both of the magnetic field and flow domain are slant with the inclination angles Ω and γ, respectively. The worked fluid is consisting of water (H2O) and Al2O3-Cu hybrid nanoparticles. The enclosures are filled with a porous medium, and the local thermal nonequilibrium (LTNE) model between the hybrid nanofluids and the porous elements are considered. Influences of various types of the obstacles are examined, namely, horizontal cold elliptic, vertical elliptic and cross section ellipsis. The solution methodology is depending on the finite volume method with nonorthogonal grids. The major outcomes revealed that the location (0.75, 0.5) is better for the rate of the flow and temperature gradients. The higher values of H* causes that the solid phase temperature has a similar behavior of the fluid phase temperature indicating to the thermal equilibrium state. Also, the fluid-phase average Nusselt number is maximizing by increasing Cattaneo–Christov heat flux factor.
Bioenergetic characteristics of the murine Nemeth-Kellner lymphoma cells exposed to thiazole derivative in complex with polymeric nanoparticles
Authors:   Biology Faculty, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Ukraine, Ilkiv M. V. , Shalai Ya. R. ,   Biology Faculty, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Ukraine, Mazur H. M. ,   Biology Faculty, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Ukraine, Manko B. O. ,   Biology Faculty, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Ukraine, Manko B. V. ,   Biology Faculty, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Ukraine, Ostapiuk Yu. V. ,   Chemistry Faculty, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Ukraine;, Mitina N. E. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Ukraine;, Zaichenko A. S. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Ukraine;, Babsky A. M. ,   Biology Faculty, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Ukraine
Published: February 2023

The development of a new anticancer drugs targeted at energy metabolism of tumor cells is a promising­ approach for cancer treatment. The aim of our study was to investigate the action of thiazole derivative N-(5-benzyl-1,3-thiazol-2-yl)-3,5-dimethyl-1-benzofuran-2-carboxamide (BF1) and its complex with PEG based polymeric nanoparticle (PEG-PN) on respiration and mitochondrial membrane potential in murine NK/Ly tumor cells. The rate of oxygen uptake in NK/Ly cells was recorded by a polarographic method using a Clark electrode. The mitochondrial potential relative values were registered using fluorescence TMRM dye. No changes in glucose-fuelled basal respiration or maximal FCCP-stimulated respiration was detected after 15-min incubation of cells with BF1 (10 µM), PEG-PN or BF1 + PEG-PN complex Fluorescent microscopy data showed that BF1 or PEG-PN separately had no effect on the value of mitochondrial membrane potential, while BF1 + PEG-PN complex caused a significant decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, indicating­ on the decrease of NK/Ly cells viability. Keywords: cell respiration, mitochondrial membrane potential, NK/Ly tumor cells, PEG, polymeric nanoparticles, thiazole derivative
Perceived knowledge of female athletes on the influence and effects of the menstrual cycle on musculoskeletal injuries
Authors: Sefotha Christina , Beckett Caitlin , Ferreira Simoné , Smith Lynn
Published: February 2023

Background and Study Aim. The menstrual cycle (MC) has been theorized as a significant factor that contributes to musculoskeletal injuries amongst female athletes. However, the literature showing its effects are limited. Additionally, very little is known about the knowledge of the MC and its effects on the body and injury occurrence amongst competitive female athletes. The aim of the study was to investigate the knowledge levels on the effects of the MC and hormonal contraceptives amongst female athletes.

Material and Methods. An online questionnaire was utilized. The questionnaire was distributed by the researchers, sports coaches and managers of the respective sports teams to university athletes older than 18 years. The data was analyzed quantitatively using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, version 28).

Results. A total of 76 participants were recruited in this study with a mean age of 21,12±2,033. Out of the 76 respondents, 50% had no knowledge and only 2,6% had very high knowledge of the MC and its effects on musculoskeletal injuries. Majority of the respondents had “low knowledge” (n=32) on the effects of hormonal contraceptives on the body and only 5 participants had “very high knowledge”.

Conclusion. Majority of the female athletes’ knowledge ranged from no to low knowledge of the MC and its effects on the body and musculoskeletal injuries. Additionally, the knowledge levels on the effects of hormonal contraceptives on the body were predominantly low. This highlights the importance of expanding the knowledge of female athletes and stakeholders within the sports community on the effects of the MC on injury occurrence.
Effects of dance and movement therapy on physical ability, flexibility and psychological state for individuals under constant stress
Authors: Andrejeva Julija , Mockiene Asta , Strazdauskaite Dainora , Pociene Monika , Sniepiene Grazina , Malysko Elvira , Istomina Natalja , Hendrixson Vaiva
Published: February 2023

Background and Study Aim. Dance and movement therapy defined as culturally creative, unique, but at the same time and a universal phenomenon encompassing bodily movements, bodily self – expression, feelings, stories, body interactions with self and others. Aim of the Study was to evaluate the impact of dance and movement therapy on the physical capacity, flexibility and psycho – emotional state of individuals under constant stress.
Material and Methods. The study included 18 – 45 years old females (N=20) who has psycho – emotional disorders and came to this facility for rehabilitation treatment procedures.
 To assess functional physical capacity was used 6 – minute walk test. For flexibility assessment, to determine the mobility of the lumbar cross section of the spine was used Schober's sample. For psycho – emotional state assessment and for setting the symptoms of depression and anxiety in subjects was used Hospital Anxiety and Depression Symptom (HADS) Scale. The fatigue was measured by Fatigue Impact Scale.
Results. Positive statistically significant change in the psycho – emotional state of the subjects was in both groups, however in dance and movement therapy group this state improvement is twice large than in physiotherapy group. The mean values of the HADS scale decreased by 3.1 ± 3.981 points in the first group of subjects treated with physiotherapy and by 6.9 ± 4.62 points in the second group treated with dance and movement therapy. During physical capacity assessment we observe a statistically significant basic change in both groups. In the first study group the average 6 – minute test increased by 35.2 ± 24.89 meters and in the second study group by 27.5 ± 19.44 meters.
Conclusions. Dance movement therapy has a positive effect on psycho – emotional state, flexibility and physical ability of people experiencing constant stress. As observed, dance and movement therapy have a positive effect not only on flexibility or physical ability, but also on psycho – emotional state. Dance and movement therapy can be easily applied among different age population. All this makes physiotherapy a highly essential tool to improve person‘s well – being and quality of life.
The effects of Halliwick aquatic exercises on gross motor function of children aged from 3 to 5 years with spastic cerebral palsy
Authors: Hamed Somaia A. , ElMeligie Mohamed M. , Kentiba Efrem
Published: February 2023

Background and Study Aim. Cerebral palsy is a broad term for a variety of non-progressive, resulting in physical impairment, movement dysfunction, and poor posture. The purpose of the study was to compare the effectiveness in the Halliwick aquatic exercise versus conventional land-based therapy on gross motor function of children aged from 3 to 5 years with spastic cerebral palsy.
Material and Methods. In this randomized controlled trial, (n=34) children diagnosed with spastic Cerebral palsy were randomly assigned into either the Halliwick concept group (n=17) or active control (conventional exercising group) (n=17). A physiotherapist performed the sessions with participants  three times a week, 45 minutes duration over 12 weeks. An independent pediatric rehabilitation specialist assessed the children’s gross motor function using the gross motor function measures (sitting, crawling and kneeling, standing, walking, running, and jumping).
Results. After the intervention, both Halliwick concept group and conventional exercising group significantly improved activities of sitting, crawling & kneeling, standing and walking, running and jumping. Besides, the estimate of the effect of the Halliwick exercises on sitting, standing and walking, running & jumping activities was more clinically significant than conventional exercises, with sitting; MD = -0.06 [95%, CI; -0.19 to 0.32], standing; MD = 0.14 [95%, CI; -0.15-0.31], and walking, running & jumping activities; MD = -0.09 [95%, CI; -0.11 to 0.20]. None of the between-group differences for any remaining outcomes was significant.
Conclusion. Aquatic exercises based on the Halliwick concept are better than conventional exercises to improve sitting, standing and walking, running and jumping activities in children aged 3 to 5 years with spastic cerebral palsy.
Comparative analysis of psychophysiological features of taekwondo athletes of different age groups
Authors: Podrigalo Leonid , Romanenko Vyacheslav , Podrihalo Olha , Iermakov Sergii , Huba Anatolyi , Perevoznyk Volodymyr , Podavalenko Olexandr
Published: February 2023

Background and Study Aim. The importance of psychophysiological features in optimizing the functional state of athletes is beyond doubt. The aim of this study was a comparative analysis of the psychophysiological features of taekwondo athletes of different age groups.
Material and Methods. The study involved 42 taekwondo athletes, skill level 2 Gup – 1 Dan. The participants were divided into groups of 14 people. Group 1 – (7.50±0.14) years, Group 2 – (10.07±0.22) years, Group 3 – (13.36±0.27) years. A special computer program for devices with the iOS operating system was used. The Apple iPad, 4th generation with a screen diagonal of 9.7 inches was used. The following tests were used: reaction choice (RC), reaction to a moving object (RMO) and size test (ST). The results of the groups were compared using the nonparametric Rosenbaum test (Q), and the Pearson correlation coefficient (r) was determined.
Results. RMO test results in group 2 were significantly better than those in group 1 (Q=12, p<0.01). A similar correlation was determined for RC (Q=14, p<0.01) and ST (Q=15, p<0.01). When analyzing the frequency of incorrect reactions in RMO, it was found that athletes in the 1st group lagged behind more often (Q=6, p<0.05). A comparison of groups 2 and 3 confirmed that senior athletes had better results in RC (Q=11, p<0.01). For all tests used, the best results of group 3 compared with group 1 was determined: for RMO Q=16, (p<0.01), for RC Q=22, (p<0.01), for ST Q=20, (p<0.01). Senior athletes often had an anticipatory reaction in RMO, (Q=7, p<0.05). Significant correlations (p<0.05) were determined in group 1 between age and frequencies of anticipatory (r=-0.57) and lagging reactions (r=0.57), RMO and RC (r=0.63), RC and frequencies of anticipatory reactions (r=0.57) and lagging reactions (r=-0.57). In group 3, significant correlations were determined between age and RC (r=-0.59), RMO and RC (r=0.76), age and ST (r=-0.53), RMO and ST (r=0.65), RC and ST (r =0.79). 
Conclusions. A change in the speed of reaction to various stimuli of taekwondo athletes of different ages has been confirmed. An increase in age and training experience improves the reaction rate. This dependence is most pronounced when comparing junior and senior athletes. The determined correlations between all tests used also reflect the improvement in the psychophysiological state of the athletes with increasing age. The tests used are characterized by accessibility, specificity, informativeness and financial feasibility. The results obtained allow for recommending their use in monitoring the state of martial arts athletes.
Teachers’ preferences of teaching primary physical education: curriculum preferences
Authors: Adamčák Stefan , Marko Michal , Bartík Pavol
Published: February 2023

Background and Study Aim. Physical education teachers play an important role in helping students to understand the importance of physical activity. By maximizing physical activity time in physical education, physical education teachers can influence physical activity needs of students. The present study was aimed at analysing and comparing teachers’ preferences of teaching primary physical education.

Material and Methods. Survey instrument (teachers’ preferences) was carried out five months (May – September, 2022) through an intentional sampling with survey group size of 1300 physical education teachers of primary education: (i) Preschool and elementary pedagogy (50.76%, n = 660), (ii) Related pedagogy (49.24%, n = 640). Pearson correlation coefficient (r), chi-square test (χ2) (inferential) and descriptive statistics were used to analyse and compare the data.

Results. Physical education is often viewed as a marginal subject within the curriculum, however after analysing the data, on average, 63.54% (n = 826) of survey group believes that physical education is just as important as any other school subject (p ˂ .01). According to 52% (n = 676) of survey group, games are popular teaching activity in physical education (p ˂ .01). About 40.50% (n = 526) of survey group does not enjoy teaching dance in physical education (p ˂ .01). About 37.55% (n = 488) of survey group considers teaching health and fitness as demanding (p ˃ .05) and athletics and gymnastics (36.06%, n = 468) as undemanding (p ˂ .01).

Conclusions. Primary physical education is an important component of curriculum and provides unique challenges for those involved with its teaching.