bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Honey and Propolis Consumption Habits of Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Kaner Gülşah , Ayer Çağla
Published: April 2024

Objective: This study was conducted to assess the consumption preferences and quantities of bee products in adults and to determine change in consumption of honey and propolis during the COVID-19 pandemic period.

Material and Method: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with 1217 individuals between November 2021 and March 2022. An online questionnaire was used for data collection, which included descriptive characteristics and participants' honey and propolis consumption habits. The data was analyzed using number, percentage, mean, McNemar, and Marginal Homogeneity test.

Results: In this study, mean age of individuals was 26.84±10.96 years, 68.9% were male, 51.8% had a secondary education, and 73.4% had no chronic disease. It was found that honey and propolis increased among subjects during the pandemic (p<0.001). Participants consume honey and propolis because they are tasty and nutritious, strengthen immune system, and are effective in treating diseases. It was found that participants preferred filtered honey as honey type and multi-floral blossom honey (plateau) and honeydew (pine) as honey variety.

Conclusion: This study is the first study with a large sample size conducted in Türkiye to determine the consumption of honey and propolis in adults during the pandemic and to evaluate the changes due to the pandemic. The results of this study show that the consumption of honey and propolis has increased during the pandemic.
Академич Н.Содномын мэндэлсний 100 жилийн ойд зориулсан “Рентген шинжилгээ” олон улсын эрдэм шинжилгээний зургаадугаар хурал
Authors: Д Болортуяа
Published: April 2024

The Nuclear Research Center organized the sixth international conference on "X-ray Analysis" on August 28-30, 2023. The conference took place in a hybrid format, combining in-person and virtually. More than 60 scientists from Mongolia, Russia, Japan, the USA, Spain, Italy, India, and Argentina participated in the conference. The conference featured 24 oral presentations and 14 poster presentations covering both fundamental and applied research. These presentations delved into the latest developments in X-ray analysis, current trends, theoretical and methodological calculations, as well as applications in the fields of environment, geology, mining, substance structure, and radiation processing. This review article provides a summary of the significant and interesting presentations delivered at the conference
RAD01: Development of a NUMTEK RAD01 Low-Cost, Portable Digital Gamma Radiation Detector
Authors:   National University of Mongolia, Khurelbaatar Luvsanbat
Published: April 2024

Additive manufacturing and open-source affordable instruction provide equal opportunities. Therefore, it is possible to quickly, compactly, and cheaply make expensive, scarce, and large devices in the previous century. The Geiger-Muller tube is used for the primary sensing component proposed and incorporates digital signal processing to ensure accurate and reliable measurement of gamma radiation. The performance of the developed detector is evaluated through experimental testing and comparisons with commercially available radiation detection devices. The results demonstrate the detector's ability to provide precise and consistent measurements while remaining cost-effective. Moreover, its portability and user-friendly interface make it suitable for various applications, including environmental monitoring, nuclear safety, personal radiation exposure assessment, and, most importantly, educational purposes. This low-cost portable digital gamma radiation detector contributes to the field of radiation detection by presenting an accessible solution that addresses the financial limitations associated with conventional gamma radiation detectors.
Power Losses Reduction in Three-Phase Unbalanced Distribution Networks Using a Convex Optimization Model in the Complex Domain
Authors: Montoya-Giraldo Oscar Danilo , Ramírez-Vanegas Carlos Alberto , González-Granada José Rodrigo
Published: April 2024

This article presents a solution methodology to minimize power losses in three-phase unbalanced distribution networks. This approach involved an efficient complex-domain model that is categorized under mixed-integer convex optimization. The methodology employed consisted of efficient load rotation at each constant power node via a three-phase rotation matrix that allows defining each load connection to minimize the expected power imbalance at the terminals of the substation, as well as the total grid power losses, and improve voltage profile performance at each system phase. The load imbalance, expressed as a percentage, can be defined as a function of the active, reactive, or apparent power. In addition, considering the complex-domain representation of three-phase electrical networks under steady-state conditions, a mixed-integer convex model was formulated to reduce the power imbalances. With the purpose of determining the initial and final power losses of these distribution systems, the successive approximations method was employed to address the three-phase power flow problem. As a result, numerical validations in the IEEE 25-bus system and a 35-node three-phase feeder showed that the final active power losses vary depending on the objective function analyzed. Therefore, for the test feeders studied, it is necessary to evaluate each objective function, with the aim of finding the one that yields the best numerical results. Power losses reductions of about 3.8056 % and 6.8652 % were obtained for both test feeders via the proposed optimization methodology. All numerical validations were performed in the Julia programming environment, using the JuMP optimization tool and the HiGHS solver.
A Longitudinal Assessment of Resident and New Graduate Well-Being According to Length of Training: A Report From the Length of Training Pilot in Family Medicine
Authors: Johnson Mark A. , Carney Patricia A. , Ericson Annie , Money Briana , Tepperberg Suki , Weida Nicholas , Somers Jennifer , Romeu Jennifer
Published: April 2024

Background & Objectives: No prior studies have examined how length of training may influence wellness. As part of the Length of Training Pilot (LoTP), we explored resident and new graduate well-being according to program year and length of training in 3- and 4-year family medicine residency training programs.
Methods: Two surveys captured data included in these analyses. One was a resident survey that included the Mayo Clinic physician-expanded Well-Being Index (eWBI) administered annually during the In-Training Examination (2014–2019). The second was administered to graduates 1 year after completion of training between 2016 and 2022 and included the same well-being questions. Response rates ranged between 77.7% and 96.8%.
Results: The eWBI summary scores for burnout were highest in postgraduate year 1 (PGY1) and did not differ statistically according to length of training (PGY1: 2.02 in 3-year [3YR] programs vs 1.93 in 4-year [4YR] programs, P=.55; postgraduate year 2 [PGY2]: 2.42 in 3YR programs vs 2.38 in 4YR programs, P=.83; postgraduate year 3 [PGY3]: 2.18 in 3YR programs vs 2.28 in 4YR programs, P=.59; and 2.34 in postgraduate year 4 [PGY4] for those in 4YR programs), though some statistical differences were noted for three items. New graduates’ eWBI summary scores before the COVID-19 pandemic were 1.77 among 3YR graduates and 1.66 among 4YR graduates (P=.59). These scores were higher during COVID-19 at 1.89 for 3YR graduates and 2.02 for 4YR graduates (P=.62). Length of training was not associated with differences in well-being before or during COVID-19.
Conclusions: We found no associations between length of training and physician well-being during training or among new graduates before or during COVID-19.
Analysis of banking credit distribution using the vector error correction model
Authors: Suyanto Suyanto , Prasilowati Sri Lestari , Safitri Julia , Jayadi Jayadi
Published: April 2024

The business model and consequently, the bank’s risk exposure significantly depends on the source of capital (Riabichenko et al., 2019). This research uses vector error correction model (VECM) data analysis to investigate the influence of capital adequacy ratio (CAR), non-performing loans (NPL), loan to deposit ratio (LDR) on the level of credit distribution at commercial banks in Indonesia. Using secondary data, research data was processed using the EViews 12 application with the research population being banking companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2019–2021. The research results show the variables CAR, NPL, and LDR have a significant effect on long-term credit distribution. In addition, the NPL variable significantly influences the credit distribution variable in the short term. The Granger causality test result shows that there is no two-directional causality relationship between the independent variables CAR, NPL, and LDR on the credit distribution variable. The results of this research are in accordance with financial intermediation theory, where the theory explains that savings and loans with high leverage can reduce the possibility of default (payment failure).
Research on a low-jitter laser-triggered pseudo-spark switch
Authors: Yang Mingjie , Qu Bo
Published: April 2024

Pseudo-spark switches have been successfully used in a variety of
pulsed-power applications, including the European Large Hadron Collider,
the Z-hoop fusion device, and the Dense Plasma Focus device. For such
applications, it is important to reduce the trigger energy of the switch
to save cost and improve stability. In this paper, a laser-triggered
pseudo-spark switch is designed, which is triggered by a laser with a
wavelength of 532 nm. Increasing the laser energy reduces the delay and
jitter of the switch, and the laser energy threshold of 1.5 mJ for
achieving switch stability can make the jitter of the switch less than 1
ns; in addition, increasing the hydrogen pressure inside the tube
reduces the delay and jitter of the switch; and when the triggering
energy is sufficiently large, the switch delay and jitter do not change
with the switch when the anode voltage is changed, and the switch delay
and jitter do not change with the switch. When the trigger energy is
large enough, changing the anode voltage, the delay and jitter of the
switch do not change with the switching voltage.
Gene networks governing the response of a calcareous sponge to future ocean conditions
Authors: Posadas Niño , Conaco Cecilia
Published: April 2024

Marine sponges are predicted to be winners in the future ocean due to
their exemplary adaptive capacity. However, while many sponge groups
exhibit tolerance to a wide range of environmental insults, calcifying
sponges may be more susceptible to thermo-acidic stress. To describe the
gene regulatory networks that govern the stress response of a calcareous
sponge, Leucetta chagosensis (class Calcarea, order Clathrinida),
individuals were subjected to warming and acidification conditions based
on the climate models for 2100. Transcriptome analysis and gene
co-expression network reconstruction revealed that the unfolded protein
response (UPR) was activated under thermo-acidic stress. Among the
upregulated genes were two lineage-specific homologs of X-box binding
protein 1 (XBP1), a transcription factor that activates the UPR.
Alternative dimerization between these XBP1 gene products suggests a
clathrinid-specific mechanism to reversibly sequester the transcription
factor into an inactive form, enabling the rapid regulation of pathways
linked to the UPR in clathrinid calcareous sponges. Our findings support
the idea that transcription factor duplication events may refine
evolutionarily conserved molecular pathways and contribute to ecological
success.
DISTRIBUTION OF MEDICINAL AND AROMATIC PLANTS (MAPS) ALONG ELEVATION GRADIENTS IN MYAGDI CENTRAL HIMALAYA, NEPAL
Authors: Acharya Mohanilal , Aryal Prakash , Acharya Madan , Bhuju Dinesh
Published: April 2024

Altitude is a critical factor influencing vegetation composition,
ecosystem properties, and soil nutrient availability. This study,
conducted in the Central Himalaya’s Myagdi area in Nepal, explores the
distribution of medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) across an
altitudinal range from 1800 m to 3800 m above sea level. A total of 50
species were identified, predominantly herbs (40), followed by shrubs
(7), climbers (2), and ferns (1). The researchers employed square plots
(n=69 of 25 m2) sampled at 100-meter intervals along the altitudinal
gradient. Various factors such as slope aspect, disturbance levels, and
habitat characteristics were recorded at each plot. Soil samples were
collected using standard methods, and soil variables including pH, soil
organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus were
investigated. The findings indicated a decline in plant species
abundance with increasing elevation, as determined by a linear model.
The Kruskal-Wallis test revealed a significant correlation (p
< 0.05) between habitat characteristics and slope aspect.
However, there was no significant correlation (p > 0.05)
between disturbance levels and MAP abundance. Soil pH exhibited a
decreasing trend with elevation (4.5 to 6.5), while SOC increased with
higher elevations, suggesting a positive relationship. Although species
richness did not significantly correlate with SOC, total nitrogen showed
a positive relationship with elevation. Available potassium exhibited a
significant positive relationship with elevation, as did the correlation
between plant abundance and potassium. Conversely, available phosphorus
displayed a significant negative relationship with elevation, while a
positive relationship was observed between plant number and phosphorus.
The study underscores the intricate relationships between soil
parameters, MAPs, and environmental factors along altitude gradients.
Further research in different Himalayan regions will enhance our
understanding of these interactions, contributing to broader insights
into the impacts of altitude on vegetation and ecosystems.
Investigating the Lid Effect in the Generation of Ocean Island Basalts
Authors: Jiang Shihao , Hawkins Rhys , Hoggard Mark James , Davies D. Rhodri , Campbell Ian H
Published: April 2024

Ocean Island Basalts (OIBs) are generated by mantle plumes, with their
geochemistry controlled by a combination of source composition,
temperature, and thickness of overlying lithosphere. For example, OIBs
erupting onto thicker, older oceanic lithosphere are expected to exhibit
signatures indicative of higher average melting pressures. Here, we
quantitatively investigate this relationship using a global dataset of
Neogene and younger OIB compositions. Local lithospheric thicknesses are
estimated using theoretical plate-cooling models and Bayes factors are
applied to identify trends. Our findings provide compelling evidence for
a correlation between OIB geochemistry and lithospheric thickness, with
some variables SiO, 
AlO, FeO, Lu, Yb and
λ) showing linear trends that can be attributed to
increasing average melting pressure, whereas others (λ
and λ, CaO) require a bi-linear fit with a change in
gradient at ~55 km. Observed variations in highly
incompatible elements are consistent with melt fractions that decrease
with increasing lithospheric thickness, as expected. Nevertheless, at
thicknesses beyond ~55 km, the implied melt fraction
does not decrease as rapidly as suggested by theoretical expectations.
This observation is robust across different lithospheric thickness
estimates, including those derived from seismic constraints. We
interpret this result as weak plumes failing to effectively thin
overlying lithosphere and/or producing insufficient melt to erupt at the
surface, in combination with a ‘memory effect’ of incomplete
homogenisation of melts during their ascent. This view is supported by
independent estimates of plume buoyancy flux, indicating that OIB
magmatism on older lithosphere may be biased towards hotter plumes.
Freshening over the whole water column as a result of the 2012 subpolar freshwater anomaly increased the transport of lighter waters of the Irminger Current between 2014 - 2022
Authors: Fried Nora , Biló Tiago Carrilho , Johns William , Katsman Caroline A. , Fogaren Kristen E , Yoder Meg F , Palevsky Hilary Ilana , Straneo Fiamma , Jong Marieke Femke de
Published: April 2024

The North Atlantic subpolar gyre experienced strong freshening in recent
years starting around 2012. Here, we investigate the imprint of this
freshwater anomaly on the water column hydrography and transport
variability of the Irminger Current (IC). The IC transports warm and
saline waters northward along the western flank of the Reykjanes Ridge
as part of the upper limb of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning
Circulation (AMOC). To investigate if the salinity anomaly spread and
propagated downward, we used high-resolution mooring data from the IC
covering the period 2014 – 2022 combined with hydrographic sections
from the Irminger Sea and Iceland Basin. We found that the IC
experienced a strong freshening starting in summer 2016. By 2018, this
salinity anomaly covers the whole water column down to 1500 m depth and
freshened the IC until 2022. In 2022, the IC was at its freshest state
observed since the early 1990’s. Hydrographic sections across the
adjacent basins showed that the recent freshening spread across the
Irminger Sea and was also comparable to its fresh state in the early
1990’s. The salinity anomaly increased the freshwater transport of the
IC by a factor of three from 2014-2015 to 2021-2022 and caused a
decrease in density over much of the water column. This resulted in an
increase in the transport of waters lighter than 27.55 kg m-3,
potentially strengthening the upper limb of the AMOC.
Carbon and greenhouse gas budgets of Europe: trends, interannual and spatial variability, and their drivers
Authors: Lauerwald Ronny , Bastos Ana , McGrath Matthew J , Petrescu Ana-Maria-Roxana , Ritter François , Andrew Robbie M , Berchet Antoine , Broquet Grégoire , Brunner Dominik , Chevallier Frederic , Cescatti Alessandro , Filipek Sara , Fortems-Cheiney Audrey , Forzieri Giovanni , Friedlingstein Pierre , Fuchs Richard , Gerbig Christoph , Houweling Sander , Ke Piyu , Lerink Bas J.W. , Li Wei , Li Xiaojun , Luijkx Ingrid Theodora , Monteil Guillaume , Munassar Saqr , Nabuurs Gert-Jan , Patra Prabir K. , Peylin Philippe , Pongratz Julia , Regnier Pierre , SAUNOIS Marielle , Schelhaas Mart-Jan , Scholze Marko , Sitch Stephen , Thompson Rona L. , Tian Hanqin , Tsuruta Aki , Wilson Chris , Wigneron Jean-Pierre , YAO YITONG , Zaehle Sönke , Ciais Philippe , Li Wanjing
Published: April 2024

In the framework of the RECCAP2 initiative, we present the greenhouse
gas (GHG) and carbon (C) budget of Europe. For the decade of the 2010s,
we present a bottom-up (BU) estimate of GHG net-emissions of 3.9 Pg
CO2-eq. yr-1 (global warming potential on 100 year horizon), and are
largely dominated by fossil fuel emissions. In this decade, terrestrial
ecosystems are a net GHG sink of 0.9 Pg CO2-eq. yr-1, dominated by a CO2
sink. For CH4 and N2O, we find good agreement between BU and top-down
(TD) estimates from atmospheric inversions. However, our BU land CO2
sink is significantly higher than TD estimates. We further show that
decadal averages of GHG net-emissions have declined by 1.2 Pg CO2-eq.
yr-1 since the 1990s, mainly due to a reduction in fossil fuel
emissions. In addition, based on both data driven BU and TD estimates,
we also find that the land CO2 sink has weakened over the past two
decades. In particular, we identified a decreasing sink strength over
Scandinavia, which can be attributed to an intensification of forest
management. These are partly offset by increasing CO2 sinks in parts of
Eastern Europe and Northern Spain, attributed in part to land use
change. Extensive regions of high CH4 and N2O emissions are mainly
attributed to agricultural activities and are found in Belgium, the
Netherlands and the southern UK. We further analyzed interannual
variability in the GHG budgets. The drought year of 2003 shows the
highest net-emissions of CO2 and of all GHGs combined.
Caracterización del lactato sérico y el gradiente centro periférico de temperatura en perros con trauma
Authors: Buriticá-Gaviria Edwin F. , Hincapié-Lopez Paula C. , Echeverry-Bonilla Diego F.
Published: April 2024

Ante una lesión los pacientes pueden presentar trastornos en la perfusión de los tejidos. La falla en la perfusión tisular puede llevar a un estado deShock irreversible, si excede los mecanismos de defensa corporales y no es corregida rápidamente ni intervenida terapéuticamente, aumentando elriesgo de muerte; esto hace necesario que el clínico identifique acertadamente el estado del paciente y conozca los cambios fisiopatológicos que ocurrenen los pacientes críticamente enfermos para poder así, tomar las decisiones terapéuticas y de manejo de los casos que se presentan en la clínica veterinaria.En el contexto colombiano se pueden encontrar marcadores asequibles que permiten de manera rápida y segura establecer a tiempo el pronósticodel paciente. El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los niveles séricos de lactato y el delta de temperatura como marcadores de perfusión tisular en43 perros con trauma, que fueron clasificados en cuatro grupos basados en la puntuación de la escala APACHE VET, de la siguiente manera: Grupo 1 (0– 10 puntos), Grupo 2 (11 – 20 puntos), Grupo 3 (21 – 30 puntos) y Grupo 4 (≥ 31 puntos). Se encontró que valores lactato sérico de 7,9±2,9 mmol/Ly gradientes centro periféricos de temperatura de 9,0±2,3 grados centígrados en pacientes con trauma se asociaron a puntuaciones mayores a 31 puntosen la escala APACHE VET con una diferencia estadísticamente significativa en contraste con los demás grupos evaluados. Estos resultados permitenconcluir que la medición del lactato sérico y el gradiente centro periférico de temperatura podría ser considerado como un marcador de seguimientohemodinámico y pronóstico en perros con trauma.
Propuesta de actualización de la metodología clásica de diagnóstico de la sepsis neonatal en equinos
Authors: Manrique-Florez Álvaro J. , Salgado-Ruiz Jefersson S. , García-Riveros Verónica S. , Jaramillo-Hernández Dumar A.
Published: April 2024

La sepsis neonatal equina es el desorden más prevalente en potros menores de 14 días de edad, tiene una mortalidad y comorbilidad alta junto a otras enfermedades que se presentan en el potro, por lo tanto, es necesario hacer un diagnóstico rápido y oportuno, para establecer un tratamiento adecuado. En 1988 se estableció un procedimiento diagnóstico llamado “sepsis score”, han pasado más de 30 años desde que se creó, en este tiempo nuevos horizontes de pruebas paraclínicas en la medicina equina han surgido, entre estos, una variedad de biomarcadores en sepsis. Por tal razón, es importante realizar la actualización de dicho método diagnóstico de sepsis en potros. Los biomarcadores son moléculas, genes u otras características naturales que permiten identificar procesos fisiológicos o patológicos particulares y estos a su vez permiten dar un pronóstico sobre la evolución de la enfermedad y la respuesta al tratamiento. Los nuevos biomarcadores que han tenido mayor investigación en el campo de la elucidación de los efectos sépticos en lafisiología del potro y por tanto probable acogida clínica en la especie equina son: Procalcitonina, Amiloide A Sérico, Endotelina 1, Interleuquinas 6 y 10, Antitrombina, diferentes esteroides, CD14 soluble y triglicéridos. La importancia de estos nuevos biomarcadores y su vinculación dentro de la metodología de diagnóstico de los cuadros de sepsis en potros radica en que podría discriminar la sepsis de otras enfermedades críticas con mayor precisión clínica, además se podría predecir con certeza la respuesta al tratamiento de esta, estableciendo un pronóstico adecuado.
Mujer rural, seguridad alimentaria y desarrollo sostenible: asociación de mujeres campesinas Cubarral – Meta
Authors: Betancourt-Alvarez Zulma , Rodríguez-Rodríguez Mónica del Pilar
Published: April 2024

El presente artículo evidencia los resultados del estudio de caso realizado con las mujeres rurales de la ASMUC (Asociación de mujeres campesinas Brisas de la Esperanza), en el municipio de Cubarral, enfocado en analizar el rol de la mujer rural en la seguridad alimentaria y el desarrollo sostenible del municipio, lo que develó un grupo de mujeres empoderadas, con participación en proyectos de ganadería, haciendo su contribución a la economía del municipio con la producción de queso sietecueros; sin embargo no han logrado potenciar los otros sistemas productivos establecidos en sus fincas como; cerdos, aves de corral, huertas, café, entre otras, que son destinados al autoconsumo, porque la cantidad producida es insuficiente para comercializar y la calidad no genera un apoyo para la economía de sus familias y el municipio. La mujer rural objeto de estudio mediante la asociación, contribuye al desarrollo sostenible, con las buenas prácticas agropecuarias en los sistemas productivos, apoya procesos de reforestación, reciclaje, cuidado de los bosques y fuentes hídricas, para ayudar a satisfacer las necesidades de la generación presente sin comprometer los recursos de las generaciones futuras. La asociación aporta al logro por el equilibrio entre: crecimiento económico, inclusión social y la protección ambiental; considerando que el desarrollo sostenible implica la conservación y protección del medio ambiente, incluyendo la biodiversidad, los recursos hídricos y la calidad del aire Se hace indispensable incluir políticas y programas en los planes de desarrollo vinculando a la mujer rural, fortaleciendo su participación en la seguridad alimentaria, con procesos de formación para apoyar sus iniciativas y permitir visibilizarla como actor social, siendo fundamental para el desarrollo de la sociedad rural, en la apuesta por el cumplimiento de los objetivos de desarrollo sostenible y así trabajar para abordar los desafíos globales, como el cambio climático, la pobreza y la seguridad alimentaria.
Antivirus and antibacterial filters for face masks based on silver quantum dots
Authors: Jokanovic Vukoman , Zdravkovic Nemanja , Petrovic Bozana , Zivkovic Marija , Biocanin Vladimir , Aleksic Ema , Milutinovic Jovana , Petrovic Tamas
Published: April 2024

Background/Aim. Available face masks, used to protect the respiratory system from various types of pathogens, show unsatisfactory efficiency because the size of viruses like severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is much smaller than the void spaces in these masks. Difficult breathing through some masks quickly tires out, which makes ordinary people avoid wearing them. These facts suggest that a new strategy is desirable for designing protective face masks. The aim of the study was to present new filters for face masks to protect people exposed to high concentrations of bacteria and viruses, particularly SARS-CoV-2. Methods. Filters for these masks were manufactured of dense cotton fabric impregnated with silver quantum dots. The filters were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and ion-coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Wettability properties were determined by measuring contact angles with water, and a color fastness test was performed. Antibacterial assay was performed using Staphylococcus (S.) aureus. Viability quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) for virus integrity assay and reverse transcription qPCR (RT-qPCR) assay were used for antiviral activity assessment. Results. In vitro assays showed extremely high efficiency of these filters in destroying S. aureus and SARS-CoV-2 virus. The filters also showed high safety and easy breathing possibilities. Conclusion. The high efficiency of these masks against SARS-CoV-2 has been demonstrated through numerous tests, and they have been approved as anti-SARS-CoV-2 masks for the first time in the world. In the meantime, this solution has been applied in practice, and the data obtained about that are very encouraging.
Introduction: Standards of Care in Diabetes—2024
Abridged for Primary Care Professionals
Authors: Diabaetes Associaition American , A. ElSayed Nuha , Baig Arshiya , Bradley Sarah , Gonzalez Jennifer , Haynes Andrea , G. McCoy Rozalina , Moverley Joy , M. Oser Sean , Pfotenhauer Kim , Rapalo Diana , R. Segal Alissa , Smith Ashlyn , Webb Heidi
Published: April 2024

This article and each section of the 2024 Abridged Standards of Care are part of a special article collection available at https://diabetesjournals.org/collection/2018/2024-Abridged-Standards-of-Care
Anemia and Erythropoietin in HIV: A Multifaceted Review
Authors: Obeagu* Emmanuel Ifeanyi
Published: April 2024

Anemia stands as a significant and multifaceted complication in the landscape of HIV, introducing a dynamic interplay of viral, immune, and hematopoietic factors. This comprehensive review navigates the intricate relationship between anemia and erythropoietin in the context of HIV, elucidating the pathogenesis, clinical implications, and evolving treatment paradigms. With an emphasis on the co-infection dynamics, hematopoietic pathogenesis, and the pivotal role of erythropoietin, this review explores the multifaceted nature of anemia in HIV, providing a holistic understanding crucial for effective management. The clinical implications extend beyond the hematological realm, impacting overall health and underscoring the need for tailored treatment strategies. Moreover, this review delves into evolving interventions, including erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and novel therapies, offering insights into the future of anemia management in the complex landscape of HIV. Through a critical examination of current knowledge and identification of research gaps, this review serves as a comprehensive resource for clinicians, researchers, and healthcare providers navigating the intricate terrain of anemia and erythropoietin in the context of HIV infection.
Health service use of infants involved in family justice care and supervision proceedings in Wales: a data linkage study
Authors: Farr Ian , Cowley Laura , Broadhurst Karen , Odd David , Jones Carys , Bailey Grace , Alrouh Bachar , Abouelenin Mariam , Cusworth Linda , Doebler Stephanie , Ford David , Griffiths Lucy
Published: April 2024

IntroductionWhen a child has suffered, or is at risk of suffering, significant harm from parents or caregivers, the local authority may issue Section 31 (s.31) Care and Supervision proceedings under the Children Act (1989).
ObjectivesWe compared the healthcare use of infants less than one year old subject to s.31 proceedings in Wales (n = 1,332),to that of a comparison group of infants not subject to s.31 proceedings (n = 204,417), between January 2011 and February 2020.
MethodsPopulation-based e-cohort study utilising data held in the Secure Anonymised Information Linkage (SAIL) Databank. Infants in s.31 proceedings were identified using the Children and Family Court Advisory and Support Service dataset. This was linked to demographic and healthcare datasets, to identify General Practice (GP) visits, emergency department (ED) attendances, and hospital admissions (emergency and elective); before the study end date or the child's first birthday for the comparison group, orbefore the s.31 application date.Regression analysis calculated event rate ratios [RR] and incidence rate ratios [IRR] for healthcare events, adjusting for widerdeterminants of health (e.g. perinatal factors, maternal mental health, deprivation), and investigated reasons for healthcare use.
ResultsInfants in s.31 proceedings had ahigher number and incidence of healthcare events compared with the comparison group, across all healthcare settings. Differences were greatest for emergency hospital admissions (IRR = 4.03, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.53 - 4.59; RR = 4.60, CI = 3.90 - 5.41). "Injury and poisoning" was the main reason for emergency admissions amongst infants in s.31 proceedings. For ED presentations, emergency hospital admissions, and GP visits, there were proportionally more events for these infants across all top ten reasons for healthcare.
ConclusionsFindings highlight greater healthcare utilisation for infants involved in s.31 proceedings in Wales, helping to build a better understanding of their needs and vulnerabilities.
Quantitative Easing, Bond Risk Premia and the Exchange Rate in a Small Open Economy
Authors:   Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, Christensen Jens H. E , Zhang Xin ,   Sveriges Riksbank
Published: April 2024

We assess the impact of large-scale asset purchases, commonly known as quantitative easing (QE), conducted by Sveriges Riksbank and the European Central Bank (ECB) on bond risk premia in the Swedish government bond market. Using a novel arbitrage-free dynamic term structure model of nominal and real bond prices that accounts for bond-specific safety premia, we find that Sveriges Riksbank’s bond purchases raised inflation and short-rate expectations, lowered nominal and real term premia and inflation risk premia, and increased nominal bond safety premia, suggestive of signaling, portfolio rebalance, and safe asset scarcity effects. Furthermore, we document spillover effects of ECB’s QE programs on Swedish bond markets that are similar to the Swedish QE effects only after controlling for exchange rate fluctuations, highlighting the importance of exchange rate dynamics in the transmission of QE spillover effects.
The Interest of the Convert: Marius Theodorian-Carada and the Romanian Greek-Catholic Church in the First Decades of the 20ᵗʰ Century
Authors: TURCU Lucian
Published: April 2024

The present study aims to present the situation of the Greek-Catholic community in Bucharest in the first decades of the 20th Century, starting from the reports that Marius Theodorian-Carada sent to the Holy See at that time. As a convert to Greek Catholicism in 1908, Theodorian-Carada showed an increased interest in the situation of the Greek Catholic believers in Bucharest during the interwar period, more precisely after the parish of Saint Basil the Great had been placed under the authority of the Greek-Catholic Archdiocese of Blaj. The present paper covers the intellectual profile of the convert, his continuous activism for the cause of the union of the Orthodox Church in Romania with the Catholic Church and, above all, the solutions that Theodorian-Carada proposed in response to the most urgent problems that the Romanian Greek Catholic Church was facing at that time. Last but not least, our study sheds light, based on archival documents, on the perspective that the Nunciature from Bucharest and the Greek-Catholic hierarchy had on the issues raised.
Rezumat: Studiul de faţă are în vedere prezentarea situaţiei comunităţii greco-catolice din Bucureşti în primele decenii ale secolului al XX-lea pornind de la rapoartele pe care Marius Theodorian-Carada le-a trimis în acele vremuri Sfântului Scaun. În calitate de convertit la greco-catolicism în 1908, Theodorian-Carada a manifestat un interes sporit faţă de situaţia credincioşilor greco-catolici din Bucureşti în perioada interbelică, mai exact după ce parohia Sfântul Vasile cel Mare de acolo a fost pusă sub autoritatea arhidiecezei greco-catolice de Blaj. S-a avut în vedere profilul intelectual al convertitului, activismul său susţinut pentru cauza unirii Bisericii ortodoxe din România cu Biserica catolică şi, mai ales, soluţiile pe care Theodorian-Carada le-a formulat la cele mai stringente probleme cu care se confrunta în acele timpuri Biserica greco-catolică românească. Nu în ultimul rând, studiul nostru pune în lumină, pe baza documentelor de arhivă, perspectiva pe care Nunţiatura de la Bucureşti şi ierarhia greco-catolică au avut-o asupra problemelor reclamate.
Cuvinte-cheie: Parohia greco-catolică Sfântul Vasile din Bucureşti, unirea Bisericilor, limba liturgică, presă religioasă, greco-catolici în Vechiul Regat român
Article: history; Received: 20.11.2023; Revised: 19.12.2023 Accepted: 28.12.2023; Available online: 30.01.2024
Optimización de la enseñanza del diseño de la comunicación gráfica de acuerdo con las necesidades del siglo XXI partiendo de los principios de la educación situada, la gamificación y la visualización de la información
Authors: Tovar Romero Iarene , Ríos Flores Jonathan Adán , López López Mónica Yazmín
Published: April 2024

The pedagogy of graphic communication design is gradually being transformed thanks to the increasing use of new educational perspectives, and by the implementation of technologies for the benefit of a substantial improvement of the academic experience for the people who are part of the circle of teaching and learning. For this reason, it becomes increasingly important to propose new perspectives on what it means to teach at a higher level in the 21st century, as well as the opening to new educational paradigms, didactic strategies and dynamics generated inside and outside the classroom taking into account tools that can strengthen the educational process. In this paper some ideas about the current context of design education and the advantages of implementing significant or situated education, strengthened from the principles of gamification and information visualization, are expressed.
Del pensamiento científico a la investigación en diseño: ¿para qué investigar y publicar diseño?
Authors: Marín Álvarez Marco Antonio , Herrera Batista Herrera Batista, Lorenzo Miguel Ángel , Acero Gutiérrez Adriana
Published: April 2024

Design as a creative act has been present in history, the emergence of the first design schools during the early twentieth century, meant a watershed in the way of conceiving and exercising our discipline. Much of what is understood today as design has its origin in that first stage, when the domain of scientific thought within the academic world was almost absolute. We present an analysis on the development of scientific knowledge and how it prompted the need to carry out formal research within our field of knowledge.
Decolonising neo-colonial hegemonies in Africa: A comparative case for socialist realism in the drama and law of Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa
Authors: Ohenhen Stanley Timeyin , Abakporo Princewill Chukwuma , Ajayi Oluwatobiloba Ifedolapo , Faniyi Ooreofe-kristi , Wright Olatunde , Adigun Grace , Egbe Fidelis , Olaniyi Olusegun , Olawale Kolawole , Oladele Olayiwola
Published: April 2024

Through a comparative investigation of the function of socialist realism in the drama and law of Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, this research investigates the decolonization of neo-colonial hegemonies in Africa. Using the drama and legal systems of Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa as comparative case studies, the research explores how African societies can challenge and demolish oppressive systems of domination sustained by colonial legacies and contemporary neo-colonial forces. Relying on the Socialist Realism and Critical Postcolonial theoretical frameworks which both support literary and artistic genre that encourages social and political transformation, the research deploys the case study analysis, comparative literature analysis and focused group discussion methods. Data obtained are subjected to content and thematic analysis. The study emphasizes how important the relationship between the legal and artistic worlds is to the fight against neo-colonialism. It further reveals the transformational potential of socialist realism as a catalyst for social change by looking at themes of resistance, social justice, and the amplifying of disadvantaged voices in drama and legal discourse. The research contributes to ongoing discussions about de-neo-colonization through this comparative case study, and emphasizes the role socialist realism plays in overthrowing neo-colonial hegemonies. The study sheds light on the distinct difficulties and opportunities these nations—and indeed, all of Africa—face in their pursuit of decolonial justice by examining the experiences of Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa.
Investigation of canine parvovirus occurrence in cats with clinical signs of feline panleukopenia in Slovakia – pilot study
Authors: Citarová Alexandra , Mojžišová Jana , Petroušková Patrícia , Pelegrinová Andrea , Kostičák Maroš , Korytár L’uboš , Prokeš Marián , Vojtek Boris , Ondrejková Anna , Drážovská Monika
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Feline panleukopenia is a contagious viral disease caused by the feline panleukopenia virus (FPV). A closely related pathogen is canine parvovirus (CPV), and amino acid substitutions in this virus allow it to acquire a feline host range. In feline hosts, the disease induced by CPV manifests with similar symptoms to those caused by FPV or milder ones, leading to its underdiagnosis. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of CPV type 2 (CPV-2) in cats with clinical symptoms of panleukopenia and to assess the use of commercial CPV antigen tests for the clinical diagnosis of FPV.

Material and Methods

Samples from 59 cats from central Slovakia were included in the study. Rectal swabs were collected and clinically tested for parvovirus infection using a commercial antigen test. Antigen-positive samples were confirmed by PCR targeting the viral VP2 gene. The sequences of the PCR products were established with the Sanger method.

Results

Of 59 samples, 23 were revealed to be positive for parvovirus infection by both antigen and PCR test (38.9%). Analysis with the National Center for Biotechnology Information BLASTn application showed 99.78–100% pairwise identity with FPV. The mortality rate of parvovirus-infected cats included in this study was 8.69% (2/23).

Conclusion

Although feline disease with CPV-2 was not confirmed, the CPV antigen test was able to detect FPV infection.
Comparison of Determination Methods Total Organic Carbon in The Soil
Authors: Alovisi Alessandra Mayumi Tokura , Villalba Laurilaine Azuaga , Soares Milena Santo Palhano , Tokura Willian Isao , Lima Natalia Dias , Kai Priscila Marques , Alves Jerusa Cariaga
Published: April 2024

Objective: This research aimed to compare two methods for determining soil organic carbon, in two soils with different textures.
 
Method: Soil samples were collected in three locations (Dourados-MS, Chapadão do Sul-MS and Cassilândia-MS), with different textures (clayey and sandy), at a depth of 0-20 cm, to determine organic carbon . The results were subjected to statistical analysis, using the SAS version 6 software and the means were compared using the t test (p < 0.05). In the correlation study, linear regression analyzes were performed.
 
Result and conclusion: There was variation in the soil organic carbon content (SOC) between the methods studied for both soils. Measuring soil samples by volume (spectrophotometer) modifies the results, regardless of the soil texture. There is greater variation between the data obtained in soils with a higher COS content than in soils where the COS content is lower. Furthermore, the results indicate the need for new studies in which soils from agricultural areas and under native vegetation are selected by soil classes, textures and types of land use.
 
Research implications: Research related to comparison studies of SOC determination methods is of paramount importance, as there is a lack of information regarding the definition and recommendation of the most appropriate method.
 
Originality/value: With this study it is possible to disseminate to the scientific community methods for determining SOC that make it possible at the same time to reduce the use of chemical reagents, without this negatively interfering with the quality of soil organic carbon determination.
Evaluación del Estado Trófico de la Laguna de Yaguarcocha usando el sofware AQUATOX
Authors: Lara Juan Gabriel Mollacana , Medina María Salomé Heredia , Mendoza César Iván Álvarez , Pozo Jessica Michelle Guaman
Published: April 2024

Los lagos desempeñan un papel fundamental en la ecología global, ya que afectan los ciclos del agua, y contribuyen a la biodiversidad. Este estudio evaluó el estado trófico de la Laguna Yahuarcocha mediante el software AQUATOX. Se llevó a cabo un muestreo inicial para estimar los parámetros y valores iniciales del modelo, y posteriormente, se realizó un monitoreo (septiembre a diciembre) a través de ocho muestreos. Los parámetros considerados fueron la profundidad del disco Secchi, fósforo total y concentraciones de clorofila. Se utilizó el error cuadrático medio y el error relativo para comparar y validar los resultados del modelo. Finalmente, se evaluó el potencial de la macrófita Myriophyllum para mejorar el estado trófico de la laguna. La laguna evaluada mostró un estado hipereutrófico para el fósforo total y eutrófico para la clorofila a y la profundidad del disco Secchi. A pesar de los intentos de modelado, el modelo no alcanzó una validación aceptable. La aplicación de biorremediación con la planta macrofita Myriophyllum presentó mejoras significativas, de un estado hipereutrófico a eutrófico para el fósforo total y la clorofila, mientras que para la profundidad del disco Secchi, presentó de un estado eutrófico a mesotrófico.
Redefining Healthcare: Internet of Things and Business Intelligence
Authors: Folorunso, Esther Oluwabusayo  , Babalola, Olanrewaju Emmanuel
Published: April 2024

Due to the increased importance of IoT in the healthcare industry, there is a need to identify its seeming benefits while reviewing its frameworks. Multiple researchers have identified IoT as a system of wireless, interrelated and connected digital devices that are useful for collecting, sending, and storing large amounts of data over a network, usually without the need for physical interaction between humans. Understanding the peculiarity of the healthcare industry and the need for physical consultations, it has been discovered that consultations and appointments can now be virtual due to the digitization of healthcare practices. The benefits of IoT and digitization in this ever-evolving sector cannot be overemphasized; therefore, there will be a need to improve the efficiency of the health system and improve population health.
The Impact of Current Account Imbalances on Exchange Rate Movements
Authors: Ayooluwa Tomiwa Animashaun  , Abraham Mensah
Published: April 2024

Current account imbalances and exchange rates engage in a captivating tango, where deficits weaken currencies (boosting exports), and surpluses strengthen them (potentially hindering exports). However, this dance has two steps: fluctuating exchange rates also influence imbalances, impacting import demand and, ultimately, the trade gap. This intricate interplay affects not just economies but policymakers, businesses and individuals globally. Understanding this connection is crucial, as imbalances left unchecked can disrupt exchange rate stability and lead to financial turmoil. Policy measures and structural reforms aimed at balancing imports and exports are vital steps in ensuring the global market tango remains harmonious.