bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Per l’analisi lessicale e semantica di un campione di fitonimi del napoletano
Authors: Guarino Duilia Giada
Published: October 2024

Starting from the studies of Zamboni and Beccaria on popular taxonomies, this contribution investigates the main properties and motivations of popular botanical terminology, a field of study in which different disciplines meet. The central part of the article is dedicated to the presentation and lexico-semantic analysis of a group of Neapolitan phytonyms, which exemplify the properties and motivations analyzed in the first part. As regards the most important results of this study, the sampled Neapolitan phytonyms effectively demonstrate the ambiguity, variability, heterogeneity, heterotypicality of the popular botanical lexicon, but also its internal structuring.
Designing Cyberinfrastructure for Knowledge Sharing
Authors: Vela Sarah , Looby Audrey , Spriel Brittnie , Davies Hailey , Murchy Kelsie , Cox Kieran
Published: October 2024

FishSounds is an online portal that provides open and user-friendly access to academic scholarship regarding the sounds made by fish species. It is the result of an international collaboration between students, scientists, and information professionals, and has become a resource used around the globe for research, education, journalism, and general interest. This website is just the first instance of a new approach to sharing knowledge and an emerging cyberinfrastructure for open scholarship. The codebase behind FishSounds was designed to be reusable with other datasets, and in the coming years additional portals will connect users to knowledge from varied subject areas across academic disciplines. This discussion examines the development and reception of FishSounds as a case study for the creation of these websites, called Searchable Online Catalogues of Knowledge, or SOCKs. As it is publicly released, the SOCK platform will continue to evolve and develop new strategies based on the lessons learned from different audiences accessing FishSounds.
Evaluation of the Relationship between Sociodemographic Factors, COVID-19 Fear Levels and Vaccination Status in Patients Applying to Family Medicine Outpatient Clinics in a University Hospital
Authors: Özkan Betül , Ünlüoğlu İlhami
Published: October 2024

Objective: This study has aimed to examine the relationship between sociodemographic factors and COVID-19 fear levels in patients aged 18-65 years and their COVID-19 vaccination status. Method: The study sample consists of 866 patients aged 18-65 who applied to the Family Medicine Polyclinics of a university hospital between 01.03.2022 and 01.06.2022. Personal Information Form and Fear of COVID-19 Scale were used to collect data. As the score obtained from the scale increases, the level of fear of COVID19 increases. The analyzes of the study were done in SPSS 21.0 package program. Kruskal Wallis test and Mann Whitney U test were used for comparisons. Results: 52.3% of the participants in the study were women and the mean age was 36.59±12.32 years. Compared to men, women's fear of coronavirus was statistically significantly higher. The coronavirus fear levels of those who received at least one dose of vaccine compared to those who did not get vaccinated at all and those who received more doses of vaccines compared to those who received only one dose were found to be statistically significantly higher. Conclusion: As the level of fear of COVID-19 increased, it was determined that the vaccination behavior of individuals was positively affected. COVID-19 is a vaccine preventable disease. With vaccination in all healthcare institutions, it will be possible to prevent morbidity and mortality, as well as economic and social losses that may be caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Toxicidad aguda de pimetrozina y flonicamid en dos especies de abejas sin aguijón
Authors: Uh-EK Gimena , Ruiz-Sánchez Esaú , Ballina-Gómez Horacio , Góngora-Gamboa Cristian
Published: October 2024

Las abejas sin aguijón Melipona beecheii y Nannotrigona perilampoides son vitales en la región Neotropical por su importancia ecológica y económica. Sin embargo, el uso de insecticidas sistémicos en agroecosistemas plantea preocupaciones sobre sus efectos adversos en estos polinizadores. Este estudio evaluó los efectos agudos (2 - 12 h) de los insecticidas flonicamid (Beleaf®) y pimetrozina (Plenum®) en la supervivencia y locomoción de M. beecheii y N. perilampoides. Las abejas se expusieron a dosis de 250 mg/L de flonicamid y 500 mg/L de pimetrozina mediante vía oral y residual en laboratorio. La supervivencia se evaluó a las cuatro, ocho y 12 h, y la locomoción mediante la velocidad de caminata y actividad de vuelo a las dos h. En M. beecheii, la exposición oral afectó la supervivencia solo a las 12 h, sin efectos residuales. En N. perilampoides, la exposición oral no afectó la supervivencia, pero la exposición residual sí. Ambos insecticidas redujeron la locomoción en M. beecheii solo por exposición oral, mientras que en N. perilampoides ambos tipos de exposición mostraron efectos negativos. Estos hallazgos resaltan la importancia de evaluar los efectos de insecticidas sistémicos en diferentes especies de abejas y múltiples vías de exposición para mitigar los riesgos ambientales.
Para além da questão psicoativa: o uso ritual da jurema e suas múltiplas mediações
Authors: Barreto Marcus Vinícius
Published: October 2024

A literatura acadêmica costuma descrever o uso ritual da jurema como uma prática realizada na região Nordeste do Brasil, tanto por comunidades indígenas quanto pelas religiões de matriz africana. Ademais, alguns estudiosos, ao definir a jurema como um vegetal cuja ingestão estimula sensações terapêuticas ou de êxtase, analisam as relações estabelecidas entre este vegetal e seus usuários colocando a dimensão psicoativa como uma condição a priori. Com base em pesquisas mais recentes bem como nas evidências empíricas de um estudo de caso, o presente artigo pretende ampliar as análises tradicionalmente propostas, mostrando que a jurema compreende um cosmos construído por múltiplas mediações entre tipos de plantas, formas de comunicação com encantados e, em alguns contextos, espécies animais.
Preto-velho, curandeiro de umbanda: imagens, estereótipos e emoções na produção do sagrado
Authors: Bahia Joana , Esteves Paula , Nogueira Farlen de Jesus
Published: October 2024

Neste artigo mostraremos como os terreiros servem como uma primeira etapa no processo de cura através do dispositivo da fé. Utilizando metodologia qualitativa, através de observação participante, pesquisa historiográfica e revisão bibliográfica, partimos da análise da figura do preto-velho como arquétipo de entidade curandeira para compreender os trânsitos devocionais, a construção de simbologias e a desmistificação de estereótipos envolvidos nos processos de cura na Umbanda. Compreendemos a cura como um processo de agência religiosa que envolve múltiplos fatores e se processa no campo das emoções e do corpo.
Reality Show Pentecostal: o acolhimento de usuários problemáticos de substâncias transmitido nas redes sociais
Authors: Targino Janine
Published: October 2024

Recentemente, tem-se notado a profusão de instituições e iniciativas comumente denominadas como “centros de recuperação”, “projetos” ou “institutos” entre os investimentos religiosos que visam atender usuários problemáticos de substâncias psicoativas (SPAs). Estas instituições e iniciativas, que se espalham pelas regiões metropolitanas do país,demostram inédita desenvoltura com o uso de redes sociais e muitas delas fazem uso dessas plataformas para compartilhar o dia a dia daqueles que por elas são acolhidos. Na tentativa de esboçar certa compreensão no que se refere às instituiçõese iniciativas de caráter religioso que transmitem massivamente nas redes sociais o acolhimento de usuários problemáticos de SPAs, esta pesquisa propõe uma etnografia virtual dos perfis mantidos no Youtube e Facebook por uma iniciativa pentecostal entre os anos de 2022 e 2023. Entre os principais resultados da pesquisa estão a compreensão de que a iniciativa em tela opera tal qual um reality show, ao mesmo tempo em que transforma os testemunhos de seus acolhidos em uma forma de angariar “curtidas” e novos seguidores nas redes sociais.
Polityka zachodnia cesarzy Marcjana (450-457) i Leona I (457-474)
Authors: Pigoński Łukasz
Published: October 2024

Przedmiotem analizy powyższej pracy jest to, jak na napór barbarzyńskich plemion oraz problemy wewnętrzne, które doprowadziły ostatecznie do upadku cesarstwa rzymskiego na Zachodzie, reagowało cesarstwo wschodniorzymskie. Na ten okres przypadają rządy dwóch cesarzy, Marcjana (450–457) i Leona I (457–474), którzy wypracowali bardzo różne koncepcje prowadzenia polityki zachodniej. Na podstawie relacji z królestwem Wandalów w Afryce, imperium Hunów i Gotami na Bałkanach, zachowawcza i pragmatyczna polityka Marcjana została zestawiona z ambitnymi planami Leona by uratować cesarstwo zachodnie przed upadkiem. Rządy Marcjana i Leona stanowią niezwykłe świadectwo tego, jak próbowano radzić sobie z wyzwaniami, które przed ówczesnym cywilizowanym światem stawiała epoka wędrówki ludów.
Effect of Stocking Density on Growth Performance and Carcass Characteristics of Broilers Grown to 3 Kg under Antibiotic Free Diets1,2
Authors: Olanrewaju Hammed A. , Magee Christopher L. , Collier Stephanie D. , Purswell Joseph L.
Published: October 2024

Background: Stocking densities could have a significant impact on birds when reducing or eliminating antimicrobials (antibiotic-free; ABF) in poultry diets. This study investigated the effects of stocking densities on growth performance and carcass characteristics of broilers fed antibiotic-free diets grown to 3 kg. Methods: A total of 888 1-d-old Ross × Ross 708 chicks were randomly distributed into 24 pens. The treatments were four stocking densities including 29, 33, 39 and 42 kg of BW/m2; each treatment was represented by six replicates. Treatments were blocked within the room to account for any variations in room conditions. Treatment assignments were randomized within each block. Used bedding was obtained from commercial farms to simulate commercial conditions and litter microflora. Birds were fed antibiotic-free (ABF) diets and provided a three phase-feeding program (Starter: 0-14 d, Grower: 15-28 d and Finisher: 29-42 d). Feed and water were provided ad libitum. Birds and feed were weighed on 1, 14, 28 and 42 d of age to measure growth performance. On d 43, 10 (5 males and 5 females) birds from each pen were processed to determine weights and yields. Result: The BW and BW gain, live weight, carcass weights and carcass yield percentage were not affected by stocking density. Also, mortality was not affected by stocking density. However, FI and FCR for the starter period were significantly elevated (P less than 0.001 and P less than 0.001, respectively) at lower stocking densities, but were not different for the remainder of the growout. In conclusion, stocking densities evaluated from 29 to 42 kg/m2 with appropriate environmental management has a negligible effect on overall production and processing yield in ABF broilers.
Utilization of Gomophia egyptiaca (Red Starfish) in the Biological Control of Aedes aegypti Larvae
Authors: Sharawi Somia Eissa
Published: October 2024

Background: Aedes aegypti mosquito spreads many vital diseases to humans. Traditionally, chemical insecticides were used for control. Recently, interest has grown in using aquatic predators, such as the Red Starfish (Gomophia egyptiaca), to target mosquito larvae in water, offering a potential biological control method. Methods: This study investigates the larvicidal potential of G. egyptiaca against Ae. aegypti larvae, a key vector for dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases after 24 hours. Result: The results demonstrate a significant increase in mortality rates with prolonged exposure to G. egyptiaca. After 2 hours, the mortality rate was 6.66%, increasing to 20% at 4 hours, 60% at 12 hours and peaking at 80% after 24 hours. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA revealed a highly significant p-value of 3.93, confirming the effectiveness of G. egyptiaca over time. LT50 was determined to be 14.91 hours, with a confidence interval of 12.40 to 18.65 hours. These findings indicate that G. egyptiaca could serve as a powerful alternative to chemical insecticides, offering a sustainable approach to mosquito control. However, field trials and evaluations of non-target impacts are necessary to fully assess its potential in diverse ecological settings. This study supports the integration of G. egyptiaca into mosquito management strategies, particularly where chemical resistance and environmental concerns are prevalent.
THE NOSTALGIA BEHIND THE DECONSTRUCTION OF DEATH AND ITS PERSONIFICATION IN TERRY PRATCHETT’S DISCWORLD
Authors: Gemović Anđelka
Published: October 2024

The paper explores the portrayals of nostalgia and the notion of death in the popular fantasy book series Discworld, written by Terry Pratchett. In the novels, death is not depicted as a mere natural phenomenon but rather as a recurring, fully developed character whose role throughout the series is manifold and essential to convey the author’s underlying doctrine. Firstly, the paper is to briefly demonstrate the relevant perspectives on nostalgia by Davis (1979), Boym (2001,2007), and Salmose (2019) and their relation to the topic of the paper. The following part is to exemplify Pratchett’s illustrations of death and the nostalgia they convey, as well as to uncover the philosophy behind the deconstruction of conventional supposition towards humanness and dying. The character of Death simultaneously functions as an objective observer of humanity and a subjective participant who frequently fails to meet the criteria of being a human. It is precisely through these instances that Pratchett invokes the uniquely human mixture of follies and decency he glorifies throughout his oeuvre. The analysis is generated by presenting different narratives centered on the character of Death, which often encompass nostalgic views on the simplicity of life in the past and the loss of human essence associated with the deteriorating social values of the contemporary era. Therefore, the research aims to investigate Pratchett’s purportedly nostalgic personification of death in relation to his depiction of the aforementioned concerns.
Teaching poetry using Instagram: An international, interdisciplinary study with adolescents mobilizing literacy and the arts
Authors: Lemieux Amelie , Barton Georgina , Lewkowich David , White Boyd , Ho Stephanie
Published: October 2024

Young people engage daily with various social media platforms to communicate with each other across the globe. Adolescents not only share text, but also use images and sound to express themselves on platforms such as Instagram and TikTok to provide access to user-created content. The recent emergence of InstaPoetry—poetry with images on Instagram—has been part of such communication and provides a good entry point into adolescents’ engagement with literature and the arts. Limited research exists, however, on how this literate practice, paired with virtual and in-person museum visits, influences young people’s self-expression. In this article, we offer ways of integrating and involving these dynamic dimensions into research projects based on four sites of inquiry located in Canada and Australia. Funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, this research project provides concrete avenues to investigate teachers’ methods to foster adolescents’ engagement with literature and the arts (i.e., contextual design, procedures, environment) in (post) COVID-19 times.
Boxed In and-and Busting Out
Authors: Mosher Ronna , Lenters Kimberly
Published: October 2024

Working with a group of Alberta Grade 1 and 2 teachers we have observed and heard described several of the complexities they face in practicing well amidst multiple and competing dimensions of contemporary literacy instruction. The outcomes-driven machinery of their provincial context, their school district’s system for communicating classroom assessments, and the increasing dominance of synthetic phonics are factors the teachers note as constraining their knowledge, skills, and ways of being/doing, and that of their students. When these material expectations are positioned against other commitments to literacy education and diverse ways of being/becoming literate they both intend a certain future and serve as reminders of literacy education’s philosophical and practical “trouble without end” (Tsing, 2015, p. 2).
Conceptualizing instructional contexts and practices as research assemblages, the study in which this paper is based investigates how early elementary teachers work at, with, and within the current conditionings of school-based literacy practices. Drawing on teacher interviews, photographs from within literacy teaching and learning situations (Snaza, 2019), and extended observations with a Grade 1 French Immersion teacher and class, the purpose of this paper is to explore liveable possibilities in reading, writing, and language instruction for the “right now” of literacy education (Kuby et al., 2019). Focusing on examples in which teachers seek “and…and…and…” pedagogies (Deleuze & Guattari, 1987, p. 25) our purpose is not to settle the troubled waters of literacy education but to trace contours of possibility as teachers encounter literacy education’s boxes and boundaries and exceed their confines. We follow teachers’ material and social participation in curricular attentions to affect and cultivations of newness as a practice of care for and curiosity about a shared world in early elementary literacy instruction.
Purtscher retinopathy following isolated chest compression: a case report
Authors: Jang Min Uk , Jung Ho Gil , Kim Youngwoong
Published: October 2024

This case report describes the case of a 56-year-old man who developed Purtscher retinopathy following compressive chest trauma. During the tertiary survey, the patient was found to have a unilateral partial vision decline despite sustaining only mild rib fractures. The patient was diagnosed with a rare complication of Purtscher retinopathy. At a 2-week follow-up outpatient examination, improved visual acuity was observed. This case highlights the importance of conducting a tertiary survey not only on the directly impacted site, but also comprehensively across all sites, while attentively listening to and addressing the patient’s complaints.
A starry night: a case report of severe liver injury due to a close-range shotgun blast in Argentina
Authors: Gasque Rodrigo Antonio , Cervantes José Gabriel , Beltrame Magalí Chahdi , Lenz-Virreira Marcelo Enrique , Quiñonez Emilio Gastón
Published: October 2024

This report presents the case of a 20-year-old man who sustained a severe liver injury from a close-range shotgun blast. A prompt medical intervention, including damage control exploratory laparotomy and surgical debridement, was undertaken due to the extent of liver damage. Despite challenges such as a nondirected biliary fistula and extensive liver parenchymal injury, comprehensive surgical management led to successful treatment. Postoperative complications, including biloma and fungal infection, were managed appropriately, highlighting the importance of vigilant follow-up care. The case underscores the complexity of managing severe liver trauma and emphasizes the evolving role of trauma damage control strategies and minimally invasive procedures in achieving favorable outcomes.
Risk for low energy availability, disordered eating and sleep disturbance among female football players
Authors: Saifi Alisha , Khanna Gulshan Lal , Kalpana Kommi
Published: October 2024

[Purpose] Low energy availability (LEA) and mental health issues are prevalent among female athletes and can have adverse effects on health and sports performance. This study aimed to assess energy availability and, mental health status (depression, anxiety, sleep deprivation, drug misuse, alcohol misuse, and disordered eating) among female football players. Despite the availability of validated tools for the triads and REDs, few studies have focused on the prevalence of LEA and mental health in female football players. Furthermore, limited information is available on LEA and its consequences in India.[Methods] Professional female football players (n=25) aged 19-30 years were recruited using incidental sampling. LEA was estimated based on energy availability [energy intake – activity energy expenditure] and LEA female questionnaire (LEAF-Q). Sports mental health assessment tool-1 (SMHAT-1) was used to assess the mental health status. Descriptive statistics and chi square test were used to test the hypotheses.[Results] According to the factorial method and LEAF-Q, 24% and 12% of players had LEA, respectively. LEA symptoms, such as decreased gastrointestinal and menstrual function, were observed in 16% of participants, while 8% had a history of injury. 44% of the participants exhibited poor mental health. Sleep disturbance (12%) and disordered eating (44%), were among the most common mental health issues. No significant difference was found between LEA, disordered eating, and sleep disturbance.[Conclusion] Female football players were more likely to develop LEA and mental health disorders, such as disordered eating and sleep disturbance. LEA was not linked with disordered eating or sleep disturbance. Early detection of LEA and effective intervention enhances the health and performance of female football players.
Pre-exercise supplementation with curcuma xanthorrhiza roxb has minimal impact on red blood cell parameters but reduces oxidative stress: a preliminary study in rats
Authors: Rosidi Ali , Ayuningtyas Rr. Annisa , Jauharany Firdananda Fikri , Ekasari Sella Septi , Izzatul Millah Annisa, , Fauziah Syfa Rahma , Fadhilah Jihan , Dewi Luthfia
Published: October 2024

[Purpose] This study examined the effects of longterm pre-exercise Curcuma xanthorriza Roxb supplementation on red blood cell indices along with circulating malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in response to endurance exercise to address previously inconsistent findings.[Methods] Male Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus; n = 20, aged 12–16 weeks) were divided equally into an exercise-only group (C) and three groups supplemented with Curcuma extract at dosages of 6.75 (T1), 13.50 (T2), and 20.25 mg (T3). Curcuma extract supplementation was administered for 28 d immediately prior to exercise.[Results] Following 28 d of exhaustive swimming, the hematocrit and erythrocyte count increased by 15% (p = 0.06). Pre-exercise Curcuma supplementation did not significantly affect mean corpuscular volume or mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration. Longterm exercise intervention resulted in elevated MDA levels by 41% (p <0.001), while Curcuma supplementation (13.50 mg) attenuated this increase by 16.6% (p = 0.09). Additionally, Curcuma supplementation resulted in a dose-dependent increase in SOD levels, with an 82.6% increase observed at 20.25 mg (p = 0.028).[Conclusion] Our preliminary findings indicated that pre-exercise supplementation with Curcuma extract had a negligible effect on changes in red blood cell markers, but it mitigated the increase in oxidative stress induced by exercise training. Our future research direction will involve applying the findings to humans.
Russia in German Strategic Documents: “Zeitenwende” Era
Authors: Sokolov A.
Published: October 2024

The article explores Germany’s changing foreign policy orientations in the context of the Ukrainian crisis since February 2022. The Russian Special military operation in Ukraine served as a trigger for Olaf Scholz’s government to publish new strategic documents designed to consolidate the changes in the German approach to Russia. These mainly include: National Security Strategy, Guidelines for Feminist Foreign Policy, Strategy on China, and Defense Policy Guidelines. They see Russia as the biggest threat to German and European security. This thesis is meant to justify the abandonment of pacifist traditions. It is noted that the concept of the “Russian threat” is becoming universal and significantly complicates the prospects of future normalization of Russian-German relations. According to the federal government, the response to the “Russian threat”, in addition to supporting Ukraine, should be a set of non-military measures in the field of economy, technology, information space, and inter-societal relations. The complexity of practical implementation of the measures towards Russia stated in the documents is emphasized. It is noted that by now, there is a shift in Germany’s security priorities, with Russia moving to the seventh place in the list of threats. These changes are accompanied by growing dissatisfaction of the German population with Berlin’s domestic and foreign policy. Despite possible changes within Germany in reference to future elections, it is concluded that the probability of adjusting the confrontational approach remains low due to the need to revise the guiding documents. The study points to a major and long-term shift in Germany’s policy towards Russia, which affects security and stability in Europe.
“Political War” 2.0 (USA vs Russia – on the Verge of Change)
Authors: Artamonova U.
Published: October 2024

The article reflects on the political war between the United States and Russia that started in 2022 with the launch of the Russian special military operation in Ukraine. The author compares those events to the political war that occurred between the U.S. and the USSR in the 20th century, concluding that once again the American side has chosen to begin with a reactive and defensive approach to the conflict. This approach is primarily aimed at safeguarding the American population (as well as the population of American allies) from Russian influence. In order to achieve that, American public diplomacy institutes (key actors in terms of waging war for the people’s minds and hearts) focused on deconstructing Russian narratives and discrediting Russian information sources. At the same time, the ability of Russian public diplomacy institutes and media to reach Western audiences was paralysed by sanctions and other restrictions. However, the purpose of building resilient defenses to protect American public from foreign influence was mostly achieved through the system of governmental control over the internal information space. This system connects governmental structures responsible for countering disinformation with tech companies and leading social media, and thus allows censorship of every topic coming from any source if deemed concerning national security. After safeguarding the internal information space, in 2024, the United States moved towards extending the defensive approach to political war towards allies, aiming at building the same resilient defenses for their publics. Meanwhile, during the past years, the American public diplomacy, which suffered from atrophy, underfunding and lack of leadership since the end of the Cold War, was being reformed in a way that enhances its effectiveness, strengthens capabilities for dealing with target audiences and integrates a more politically oriented approach. Thus, while ensuring the protection of its population from the adversary’s influence, the U.S. have also been upgrading its arsenal of effective instruments required for political war and effective influencing of foreign public opinion. Bearing in mind the previous experience of political war between the two states, the author concludes that after securing the information space of allies and completing the modernization of public diplomacy capabilities, the Washington is likely to move from defensive to offensive tactic in political warfare. Moreover, those offensive and proactive actions will be most likely realized collectively, together with allies. A theoretical basis for such an approach is being currently developed through the emergence of “reputational security” concept in American expert discourse. This concept not only elevates the issues of reputation (of the states, democracy, liberal values) to the category of national security issues, but also pushes for collective action in terms of protecting one’s own reputation and undermining the reputation of an adversary.
Politics Against Decarbonization
Authors: Kulagin V. , Kuklina А. , Grushevenko D.
Published: October 2024

This study describes the methodology and results of calculating the increase in global greenhouse gas emissions caused by disruptions in international logistics due to geopolitical restrictions introduced by Western countries against Russia since 2022. The Western sanctions policy regarding, first of all, trade in Russian hydrocarbons has caused the breakdown of trade routes, which until recently could be characterized as “conditionally optimal.” That is, hydrocarbon supplies were carried out along the shortest routes, which ensured minimal fuel combustion during transportation and minimal greenhouse gas emissions, respectively. Now, a forced reorientation has led to an increase in commodity transport work, which requires more fuel combustion and, accordingly, provides an increase in emissions. Closed airspace also has an additional negative effect on rising emissions, as most flights from Europe to Asia and back from 2022 will overfly Russia, which on average adds an extra 2 hours to the flight, requires more fuel to be burned, and therefore leads to increase in greenhouse gas emissions. And considering that flights have only just begun to recover after the 2020 crisis, the impact of the closure of airspace over Russia on greenhouse gas emissions will only grow in the future. The study’s calculations show that reorienting trade in oil and natural gas and extending air routes alone would increase emissions by 261–290 Million t of CO2 eq. This is comparable to the UK’s annual emissions. If we take into account all the distortions in global trade, emissions growth could be even 40–60% higher. Thus, it can be argued that existing trade restrictions brought a significant negative impact on the implementation of global low-carbon development agenda.
Rat, mir i nomos: o nemogućnostima šmitovske transgresije prostora
Authors: Kursar Tonči
Published: October 2024

Kako se suočavamo s nadolazećim političkim ustrojstvom svijeta, autor članka izvodi kritičku rekonstrukciju argumenata kritičkih političkih teoretičara (Petito, Mouffe, Burgess, Rowan i Zolo) koji nalaze uporište u političkom učenju Carla Schmitta, posebno u njegovom shvaćanju nomosa. Pritom autor uvažava Schmittov naputak o pojmovima iz Predgovora za talijansko izdanje Pojma političkoga (1971). Prvo se osvrće na pokušaj da se Schmitta prikaže pobornikom mira. Nakon toga se razmatraju načini preuzimanja Schmittova shvaćanja veleprostora i nomosa od strane spomenutih teoretičara. I treće, najviše se pozornosti posvećuje Rowanovom radikalno demokratskom čitanju Schmittova učenja o nomosu. Kritički se razmatra njegov pokušaj da se pomoću Schmittova shvaćanja konstitutivne moći dokine "prostor" i tako uspostavi novi demokratski nomos (ili čak post-nomos).
Energy Renormalization in a Berry Geometrical Phase: Low-Energy Perturbations of the Strong Interaction and the QCD Mass Gap
Authors: Gibbons Mark
Published: October 2024

A Berry geometrical phase is identified in a strongly metastable system containing dynamically responsive clathrate hydrate structures within a crystal-fluid material. High energy degeneracy in the associated chemistry produces local stability and false vacuum conditions that lead to non-extensive and non-additive contributions in the fundamental thermodynamic relation. Application of Ginzburg-Landau theory and the scaling laws reveals a coherence length (3.05 m) and a penetration depth (2.2 m) that characterize a macro-scale dual superconductor. The coherence length describes a magnetic condensate whilst its inverse gives the Higgs mass (0.33 kg) and non-extensive volume changes (± 0.5 l). The penetration depth determines the extent of QCD vacuum suppression whilst its inverse gives an effective vector boson mass (≤ 0.46 kg), resulting in non-additive hyperbolic curvature. Simultaneous emergence of the Ginzburg-Landau superconducting phase transition is consistent with gauge-invariant coupling of the scalar field (≤ 3.6 ks-1) to the Yang-Mills action in QCD. The discovery of an energy gap in the gradient energy term of the system Lagrangian is associated with a critical correlation length (3.05 m) revealed in the transition from a gapped to a gapless superconducting state. Together with the emergence and absorption of the Higgs-like scalar field, a mechanism for describing a renormalized QCD mass gap arises.
Ramsey Approach to Dynamics: Ramsey Theory and Conservation Laws
Authors: Bormashenko Edward , Shvalb Nir
Published: October 2024

We propose the Ramsey approach for the analysis of behavior of isolated mechanical systems containing interacting particles. The total momentum of the system in the frame of the center of masses is zero. The mechanical system is described by the Ramsey, bi-colored, complete graph. Vectors of momenta of the particles pi serve as the vertices of the graph. We start from the graph representing the system in the frame of the center of masses, the momenta of the particles in this system are pcmi. If (pcmi(t)∙pcmj(t))≥0 is true, vectors of momenta of the particles numbered i and j are connected with the red link; if (pcmi(t)∙pcmj(t))<0 takes place, the vectors of momenta are connected with the green link. Thus, the complete, bi-colored graph emerges. Consider the isolated system built of six interacting particles. According to the Ramsey Theorem, the graph inevitably comprises at least one monochromatic triangle. The coloring procedure is invariant relatively rotations/translations of frames; thus, the graph representing the system contains at least one monochromatic triangle in any of frames emerging by rotation/translation of the original frame. This gives rise to the novel kind of a mechanical invariant. Similar coloring is introduced for the angular momenta of the particles. However, the coloring procedure is sensitive to Galilean/Lorenz transformations. Extensions of the suggested approach are discussed.
Trends in Prevalence and Predictors of Undernutrition in Tunisian Children Aged 0–23 Months: Evidence from Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (2011–2023)
Authors: Elmighrabi Nagwa Farag , Fleming Catharine A K , Agho Kingsley Emwinyore
Published: October 2024

Background: In recent years, undernutrition has remained a significant public health issue in Tu-nisia, increasing the risk of illness and mortality in young children. Therefore, this study aims to analyse the prevalence and factors contributing to undernutrition among Tunisian children aged 0-23 months; Methods: The study included 3265 children aged 0-23 months from the 2011-2023 Tunisia Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS). Trends and logistic regression analyses were used to determine the prevalence and predictors of undernutrition; Results: The prevalence of stunting, wasting, and underweight in infants and children aged 0-23 months has increased by 3.3%, 0.5%, and 2.1%, respectively. Stunting and underweight were more common among infants aged 0-5 months (11.8% for stunting, 8.9% for underweight, p < 0.01), and first-time mothers (8.3% for stunting, 4.1% for underweight, p < 0.01). In 2023, compared to 2011, the odds of stunt-ing, wasting, and being underweight have increased by 22%, 16%, and 70% respectively. Infants aged 0-5 months had higher odds of undernutrition in all three indices. Children of obese or overweight mothers, and those who started breastfeeding late, were more likely to be stunted. Boys had significantly higher odds of wasting and underweight. Small birth weight, and dura-tion of breastfeeding > 12months had significantly higher odds of being underweight; Conclu-sions: This study shows that infants aged 0-5 months, first-time mothers, boys, and children from poor households in Tunisia are at a higher odd of undernutrition. To address the growing issue of undernutrition in Tunisian children, enhancing maternal and child health and nutrition ser-vices, improve parental education, and implement community-based programs that provide breastfeeding and nutritional education to infants born to new mothers and mothers with high/low BMI is recommended.
The Effect of Doping rGO with MnO2 Nanomaterial on Its Gas Sensing Properties
Authors: Alouani Mohamed Ayoub , Casanova-Chafer Juan , de Bernardi-Martín Santiago , García-Gómez Alejandra , Salehnia Foad , Santos-Ceballos José Carlos , Santos-Betancourt Alejandro , Vilanova Xavier , Llobet Eduard
Published: October 2024

Manganese dioxide (MnO2) has drawn attention as a sensitizer to be incorporated in graphene-based chemoresistive sensors thanks to its promising properties. In this regard, a rGO@MnO2 sensing material was prepared and deposited on two different substrates (Silicon and Kapton). These sensors were exposed to different dilutions of NO2 under dry and humid conditions at room temperature. Other gases or vapours such as NH3, CO, ethanol and H2 were also tested. FESEM, HRTEM, RAMAN and XRD were used to characterize the prepared sensors. The experimental results showed that the incorporation of MnO2 in the rGO material enhanced its response towards NO2. Moreover, this material showed also very good responses toward NH3 both under dry and humid conditions and showed no cross-responsiveness towards other toxic gases.
Advances in Encapsulating Marine Bioactive Compounds Using Nanostructured Lipid Carriers (NLC) and Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) for Health Applications
Authors: Favas Rita , Almeida Hugo , Peixoto Andreia F. , Ferreira Domingos Carvalho , Silva Ana Catarina
Published: October 2024

With increased life expectancy and improved modern lifestyles, there has been a growing concern for health, including the prevention of disease and the improvement of physical appearance. Consumers are increasingly aware of the benefits of using natural ingredients in healthcare products and at the same time are concerned about the challenges of sustainability. In this sense, the use of marine bioactive compounds as cosmetic ingredients and in food supplements has become increasingly popular due to the benefits derived from their various properties. However, some of these compounds have limited use, mainly due to their low stability and poor aqueous solubility, and solutions need to be developed to overcome these limitations. In this sense, the use of lipid nanoparticles, such as solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLC), has been explored as these carriers show ability to protect and enhance the absorption of molecules. Several studies have demonstrated the efficacy of encapsulating these compounds and incorporating them into cosmetics and food supplements. However, there is still no global legislation and safety concerns have been raised. Further clinical studies in animals and humans are needed to clarify safety issues.
How Does Saccharomyces cerevisiae DSM 34246 var. boulardii Supplementation Impact the Well-Being of Healthy Adult Dogs?
Authors: Lonigro Nicolò , Perondi Francesca , Bruni Natascia , Bigliati Mauro , Costale Annalisa , Pagani Elena , Lippi Ilaria , Melocchi Alice , Zema Lucia , Meineri Giorgia , Martello Elisa
Published: October 2024

Background: a supplement containing Saccharomyces cerevisiae DSM 34246 (Canobios-BL) var. boulardii was tested to demonstrate its efficacy as a gut flora stabilizer in two breed of dogs, West Highland White Terrier (WT) and German Shepherd (GS). Methods: a total of 53 healthy adult dogs, 28 WT and 25 GS, were included in the study. The animals were randomly assigned to a control group (CTR: WT 14/28, GS 12/25) and to a treated group (SACC; WT 14/28, GS 13/25). The CTR Group was fed with dry commercial food, while the SACC one was fed with the same food but supplemented with the feed additive S. boulardii at the concentration of 5 X 109 CFU/kg. The study lasted 35 days and included six evaluation time points (T0-T5). Body Weight (BW), Body Condition Score (BCS), Fecal Score (FS), FS measured with a penetrometer (FSp), Fecal Dry matter (DM), Fecal Humidity (UM) and Fecal IgA (IgA) were measured at each time point. Results: a significant improvement (p<0.05) in BCS, FS, FSp, MCS, DM, UM and IgA of the treated group with respect to the control one for both WT and GS were reported. Conclusions: the positive effect of S. boulardii supplementation on the improvement of the fecal parameters and on the maintenance of good physiological as well as biological conditions in healthy adult dogs in breeding conditions.
Federated Learning for Privacy-Preserving Medical Data Sharing in Drug Development
Authors: Yang Mingxuan , Huang Decheng , Zhan Xiaoan
Published: October 2024

This study explores the potential of Federated Learning (FL) to facilitate the sharing and collaboration of medical data in drug development under the premise of privacy protection. While traditional centralized data processing methods limit effective collaboration across agencies due to data privacy and compliance concerns, federated learning avoids the risk of privacy breaches through a distributed architecture that allows participants to train artificial intelligence (AI) models together without sharing raw data. This paper systematically describes the core mechanism of federated learning, including the key technologies such as model parameter updating, differential privacy and homomorphic encryption, and their applications in drug development and medical data processing. Examples, such as NVIDIA Clara's Federated learning application and COVID-19 resource prediction, show that federated learning improves the efficiency of multi-party collaboration and model performance while ensuring data privacy. In addition, this study explores the scalability and generality of federated learning in the medical field, and points out that the technology is not only suitable for drug development, but also has broad cross-industry application potential, especially in areas such as finance and insurance, where data privacy is critical.
The Romea Strata Route Between History and Heritage. A Spiritual, Diverse, and Interreligious Project from the Baltics to Rome
Authors: Rech Giovanna
Published: October 2024

This article is dedicated to critically appraising the current knowledge and advancements in rediscovering a thematic religious and cultural route that traverses European continental territories, from the Baltic regions to Rome, known as Romea Strata. This spiritual, diverse, and interreligious project combines two approaches: the historical and heritage fashioners. The article assesses secondary sources that clarify a scientific background, discussing the historicity of Romea Strata’s direction from Tallinn to Rome, through European capitals and minor localities. Mobility in space motivated by culture and faith is a human phenomenon. Historical knowledge of this phenomenon constitutes an important theme for understanding the different potentials of intercultural dialogue, as a strong awareness of the heritage capabilities motivates communities to collaborate on a sustainable development project.
Perspectives: Two Approaches in Computational Social Sciences
Authors: Tang Shiping
Published: October 2024

Big data-driven machine learning and artificial intelligence (ML/AI) is not all computational social sciences (CSS) have. Agent-based modeling (ABM) or multi-agent system (MAS) is another fundamentally different but equally useful approach in CSS. In fact, the two approaches start from very different orientations and their differences have deeper root in ontology. ML/AI aims to imitate and then surpass human capacities, from sensing to perceiving, reasoning, calculating, and acting. In contrast, ABM seeks to simulate how social outcomes emerge from the complex interactions of agents’ actions within a specific environment. Yet, precisely because these two technologies are different, they can be complementary to each other. There is a bright future for integrating ABM with ML/AI for tackling real world challenges.
How to Deal with Pulpitis: An Overview of New Approaches – a Narrative Review
Authors: Niemczyk Wojciech , Fiegler-Rudol Jakub , Janik Katarzyna , Zawilska Anna , Tanasiewicz Marta
Published: October 2024

Background: Traditional root canal therapy (RCT) has been the primary method for treating necrotic pulp, but it presents limitations such as loss of vitality and postoperative fractures. Recent advancements in regenerative endodontics offer alternative strategies to restore pulp tissue vitality and function. These approaches involve stem cell transplantation, cell homing, and the use of organic scaffolds to promote pulp regeneration. Highlight: This article reviews various regenerative endodontic techniques, including autogenic and allogenic dental pulp transplantation, the use of amniotic membrane scaffolds, platelet-rich fibrin therapy, specialized pro-resolving mediators, nanofibrous and bioceramic-based scaffolds, injectable scaffolds, and dentin matrix proteins. These strategies leverage stem cells, growth factors, and biomaterials to create conducive microenvironments for cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation, thereby facilitating pulp tissue regeneration. Methods: The literature search was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, employing keywords like "regenerative endodontics," "pulpitis," "pulp regeneration," and "platelet-rich fibrin." Conclusion: The reviewed approaches in regenerative endodontics show promising potential for overcoming the limitations of traditional RCT and promoting pulp tissue regeneration. However, further research is needed to optimize protocols, address challenges, and translate these advancements into routine clinical practice. Ultimately, these innovations have the potential to enhance patient outcomes in endodontic treatment by restoring pulp vitality and function effectively.
Retrieval-Augmented Medical Large Language Models
Authors: Youssef Hala , Turner Jacob , Sanders Evan
Published: October 2024

Biomedical large language models (LLMs) have made significant strides, but their reliance on external retrieval mechanisms presents challenges in accuracy and computational efficiency. To address these issues, we propose MedRAG-Refine, a generative LLM designed specifically for the biomedical domain. Our model integrates a two-stage fine-tuning process, incorporating a self-reflection mechanism to improve reasoning quality. We evaluate our model on MedQA, MedMCQA, and MMLU datasets, demonstrating superior performance over state-of-the-art methods. Additionally, human evaluations confirm the enhanced accuracy and reasoning quality of our model in real-world medical tasks.