bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wątpliwości wokół podziału obowiązków bhp w zatrudnieniu tymczasowym
Authors: Zbucka-Gargas Marta
Published: August 2023

Autorka porusza zagadnienie bezpieczeństwa pracy w zatrudnieniu tymczasowym. Omawia kwestie odpowiedzialności stron, m.in. dotyczące wypadku w pracy i chorób zawodowych. W praktyce zagadnienia te budzą liczne wątpliwości, ale także powstaje pytanie, czy podział obowiązków między dwa podmioty nie powoduje obniżenia poziomu bezpieczeństwa osób zatrudnionych.
Smaki życia razem. Metafory wizualne w dyskursie dziecięcym
Authors: Gemel Aleksander , Wiśniewska-Kin Monika
Published: August 2023

Celem pracy jest stworzenie przestrzeni teoretycznej dla działań w zakresie krytycznej rewizji założeń obecnie dominującego systemu edukacji. Pierwsza część ma charakter teoretyczny i poświęcona jest omówieniu głównych założeń oraz ścieżki rozwój językoznawstwa kognitywnego z którego wyrasta kognitywna teoria metafory. Rozdział pierwszy wprowadza w problematykę metafory. Rozdział drugi wprowadza w założenia językoznawstwa kognitywnego oraz w proces jego rozwoju na tle dwóch wielkich szkół filozofii języka: behawioryzmu Leonarda Bloomfielda i generatywizmu Noama Chomsky’ego. Trzeci rozdział omawia główne założenia i podstawowe problemy kognitywnej teorii metafory, która w dalszej części pracy zostaje użyta w roli teoretycznego paradygmatu prowadzonych badań. Druga część ma charakter empiryczny. Jej naczelnym celem była analiza dziecięcych predyspozycji metaforyzacyjnych, w tym zwłaszcza procesów rozumienia, rozpoznawania i kreacji metafor, na przykładzie procesu konceptualizacji pojęcia wspólnoty. Podjęta w badaniach rekonstrukcja dziecięcych wyidealizowanych modeli poznawczych zmierzała do rozpoznania kulturowo uwarunkowanych wzorców konceptualizacji doświadczenia wspólnoty, zawartych implicite w metaforycznych strukturach językowych. Modele te określają – zazwyczaj poza świadomością mówiącego – sposoby jego myślenia i działania. Rekonstrukcja tych społeczno-kulturowych form symbolicznych miała na celu ich dalsze zestawienie z naturalnymi i spontanicznymi sposobami metaforycznej twórczości dzieci. Czwarty rozdział pracy ma na celu określenie założeń metodologicznych pozyskiwania materiału badawczego, w tym zwłaszcza określeniu metod, technik i narzędzi badawczych oraz opracowanie organizacji i przebiegu samego badania, któremu poświęcony jest rozdział piąty.
Gracze w kulturze
Authors: Jędrasiak Kamil
Published: August 2023

Książka „Gracze w kulturze” to propozycja wskazania i przyjrzenia się wybranym aspektom funkcjonowania kultury współczesnej, w których przejawia się wyraźnie rosnące znaczenie gier (zwłaszcza gier wideo) i szeroko rozumianej ludyczności, tudzież „growości”. Kluczowym punktem odniesienia dla podjętych rozważań są gracze, rozumiani jako specyficzny typ uczestników kultury. Fundamentem wywodu jest rozpoznanie przykładów i nakreślenie pola refleksji akademickiej wokół powiązań pomiędzy grami a kulturą. Następnie omówione zostają kwestie związane ze specyfiką doświadczania gier wideom (głównie w kontekście technologicznym), ale też z kompetencjami graczy oraz ich zróżnicowaniem i taksonomią. Dalej perspektywa poszerza się, zwracając w stronę kultury gier/graczy, a więc m.in. przeznaczonych dla graczy miejsc, mediów specjalistycznych, wydarzeń i innych fenomenów kształtujących tzw. „gaming”. Wywód wieńczy próba spojrzenia na kulturę (jako całość) przez pryzmat jej „ugrowienia”. Omówione są zatem przejawy „growości” poza ścisłym „gamingiem” – wpływy gier na inne gałęzie kultury (w tym przemysły rozrywkowe czy sztukę), protokoły kulturowe, życie codzienne itd., a zatem i na kompetencje służące uczestnictwu kulturowemu.
Fundamentación teórico-práctica inicial para química analítica
Authors: Castañeda Martínez Claudia Patricia , Murcia Mesa Julie Joseane
Published: August 2023

Este texto académico proyecta como público objetivo al estudiante que requiera conocer los principios fundamentales involucrados en los estadios iniciales del estudio de la química analítica. En él se recogen fundamentos teórico-prácticos del área. Se ha propendido por un diseño ameno, de modo que su lectura pueda resultar un recorrido interesante a través del conocimiento aplicado. A lo largo del libro, el estudiante tendrá oportunidad de reconocer la importancia de la química analítica, su significado y proyección en el campo de la química. De igual manera, le será de gran utilidad conocer las etapas generales inmersas en un proceso analítico y sus principales métodos experimentales de análisis cualitativo y cuantitativo, calculando e interpretando el concepto de error asociado al resultado analítico. Este libro le ayudará al estudiante a adquirir destrezas en los cálculos matemáticos y estequiométricos, lo mismo que en el desempeño práctico al interior del laboratorio de química analítica. El libro incluye una serie de ejercicios de refuerzo y actividades de autoevaluación, el contenido general del texto parte de las experiencias de enseñanza de las autoras en el área de la química y surge como un aporte de nivel intelectual y comunicativo.
Combustion comparative analysis of pyrolysis oil and diesel fuel under constant-volume conditions
Authors: Szwaja Magdalena Joanna , Szymanek Arkadiusz
Published: August 2023

The article discusses the research results on the combustion of pyrolysis oil derived from the pyrolysis of HDPE plastics after its distillation. The tests were carried out in a constant-volume combustion chamber in conditions similar to those in a compression-ignition engine with a compression ratio of 17.5:1. The phases of premixed and diffusion combustion and the ignition lag were determined. Diesel fuel combustion tests were performed under similar pressure-temperature conditions. Comparative analysis was used to draw conclusions as follows: the duration of the premixed combustion phase for pyrolysis oil is approximately 5% shorter than that for diesel oil; with an increase in the initial pressure in the chamber, the premixed combustion time in both cases was shortened, while the diffusion combustion time slightly increased, practically without any significant change; the maximum combustion rate for the premixed combustion phase for pyrolysis oil was nearly 20% higher than that for diesel fuel; the heat released from the premixed combustion phase for pyrolysis oil was found to be 20% higher compared to that one for diesel fuel; the ignition lag for pyrolysis oil was slightly longer compared to that for diesel fuel.
The presented parameters significantly impact both the development of combustion and the thermal efficiency of the internal combustion engine. Summing up, pyrolysis oil can be applied as a substitute for diesel fuel as a single or blended component with it.
Virtual Reality Relaxation for Staff Wellbeing on a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Ward: A Feasibility and Acceptability Study
Authors: Williams Grace , Riches Simon
Published: August 2023

Aim: Mental health staff, particularly those delivering inpatient services, may experience poor wellbeing due to time-pressured, stressful work. Existing staff wellbeing interventions are limited, so there is a need for novel, accessible support. Virtual reality (VR) relaxation
has potential to support wellbeing; this study aimed to evaluate feasibility and acceptability of VR relaxation for staff on a psychiatric rehabilitation ward. Method: Ward staff were offered a single session of VR relaxation. Wearing a VR head-mounted display, participants could explore
immersive, relaxing, virtual environments of natural scenery. Feasibility was measured by assessing completion rate of session components, time spent in VR, and number of environments accessed. Acceptability was measured by comparing pre- and post-VR visual analogue scales (VAS), from 0 ('not
at all') to 10 ('very'), of relaxation, stress, anxiety, sadness, happiness, and connectedness to nature; by reporting post-VR immersion and helpfulness VAS, and post-session narrative feedback. Results: Participants (N = 14) were mostly female; half were nurses and others were from
various professions. Post-VR, there were significant increases in relaxation, connectedness to nature (both large effects) and happiness (medium effect); there were also significant decreases in stress, anxiety (both large effects) and sadness (small effect). Immersion and helpfulness ratings
were both >7. Participants reported that the VR was relaxing, a positive distraction from work-related stress, they liked the interactive elements, and were keen to receive more regular sessions. Conclusion: VR relaxation appears feasible and acceptable to support staff wellbeing
on psychiatric wards and there is potential for wider implementation.
COMPARATIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LINEAR DIMENSIONS OF VARIOUS FORMS OF THE FACIAL SKULL
Authors: Shepetyuk Maksim G. , Chaplygina Elena V. , Kaplunova Ol'ga A. , Sukhanova Ol'ga P. , Blinov Igor' M. , Mikhal'chich Irina O.
Published: August 2023

For many years, radiography has traditionally been the main method for studying of the morphology of the facial skull and identifying craniofacial deformities, however, it is difficult to assess the typical variability of the linear dimensions of the facial skull on radiographs due to the many overlapping shadows of anatomical structures. Comparison of the results of craniometry of macerated skulls, radiographs and spiral computed tomography shows that multislice computed tomography in some cases can be the best alternative to conventional radiography and other methods of studying the facial skull. The purpose of the study was to conduct a comparative analysis of the linear dimensions of the facial skull with its various forms according to multislice computed tomography. Tomograms of 105 patients with different facial skull shapes were studied. Tomography was performed on a «Brilliance 64 Slice» multislice spiral X-ray computed tomography scanner at the Department of Magnetic Resonance and X-ray Computed Tomography of the Rostov State Medical University for suspected cerebrovascular pathology. The obtained images were analyzed using axial, multiplanar, and shadow density surface reconstructions in various projections. Measurements were made using a standard digital ruler of a computer tomography workstation, typical features of the linear dimensions of the facial skull were evaluated using the fan-beam method. In the studied group of individuals, the predominance of euryenes (46.7%, n=49) over mezenes (37.2%, n=35) and leptens (18.1%, n=9) was revealed. A comparative characteristic of the linear dimensions of the facial skull on spiral computed tomograms is described. According to the results of the study, the linear dimensions of the facial skull on the right dominate in leptens and euryenes, on the right in sections of the upper fan on the right, and on the left in sections of the lower and lateral fans. A left-sided asymmetry of the linear dimensions of the facial skull in sections of the lower fan, which is characteristic of mezenes, was established, while a right-sided asymmetry was found for euryenes and leptens. The data obtained as indicators of normal craniometry can be used in clinical practice by radiologists, plastic surgeons, maxillofacial surgeons, as well as in anthropology and forensic medicine.
FEATURES OF THE CASPASE-3 EXPRESSION IN THE HIPPOCAMPUS AT THE MODELLING OF THE EXPERIMENTAL ACUTE EPILEPTIC FIT
Authors: Demyashkin Grigory A. , Shapovalova Elena Yu. , Grigoryan Migran S. , Zorin Il'ya A.
Published: August 2023

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological pathologies, but the biological substrate of the disease is still poorly understood. A few studies have shown that in experimental animals after an epileptic fit there is an increase in the level of some caspases, but the available data are not enough to fully understand the nature of the caspase cascade in epilepsy, and especially its terminal phase. Of particular interest is the analysis of morphological changes in the structures of the hippocampus on the background of an acute epileptic fit in the correlation between neuronal loss and the terminal phase of apoptosis or the quantitative assessment of caspase-3 activity. The aim of the study was the immunohistochemical evaluation of caspase-3 expression in the hippocampus in an experimental model of epilepsy in laboratory mice. The animals were divided into two groups, the animals of the first group (n=28) were intraperitoneally injected with pentilenetetrazole once at a dose of 45 μg/kg to simulate an acute epileptic fit, which was assessed by the modified Racine scale, the second group of animals was the control (n=20). Animals were taken out of the experiment after 3 hours and consecutively on days 1, 3, and 5 from the start of the drug administration for a dynamic study of changes in the hippocampus. Animals were withdrawn from the experiment by introducing high doses of anaesthetic. Animal brain fragments were examined by Nissl staining and caspase-3 expression was quantified by immunohistochemistry in the subregions CA1, CA3 and the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. 24 hours after the modelling of an acute epileptic fit, the preparations showed signs of hippocampal sclerosis (gliosis, loss of neurons) and an increase in the number of neurons expressing caspase-3 by 2.68 times compared to the number of neurons in the preparations of animals in the control group. As a result of the experiment, it was revealed that the loss of neurons in the hippocampus of the CA3 subregion is associated with an increase in the expression of caspase-3 24 hours after the simulation of an acute generalized seizure using an injection of pentilenetetrazole.
MORPHOLOGICAL ASPECTS IN PRACTICAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY
Authors: Garmaeva Darima K. , Basharin Karl G. , Gur'eva Alla B. , Mayborodin Igor V. , Medvedeva Nadezhda N. , Balandina Irina A. , Alekseeva Nataliya T. , Putalova Irina N. , Sindeeva Lyudmila V. , Bgatova Nataliya P. , Evteev Andrey A. , Klochkova Svetlana V. , Derevtsova Svetlana N. , Balandin Anatoly A. , Krotov Sergey Yu. , Krotov Yuri A. , Sokolov Dmitry A. , Nasonova Natal'ya A. , Kvaratskhelia Anna G. , Anokhina Zhanna A. , Satanin Leonid A.
Published: August 2023

Morphological disciplines form the basis of theoretical and practical training of future qualified medical specialists. Thanks to deep anatomical knowledge, the foundations of special knowledge are laid, clinical thinking develops, while the opposite leads to medical errors. The purpose of the review article is to determine the importance of anatomical research and data in practical medicine and biology. As materials for the study, the content of the reports of the All-Russian scientific and practical conference with international participation «Morphological aspects in practical medicine and biology», held on December 8, 2022 as part of the XIII National Congress with international participation «Ecology and human health in the North» was used. The conference was attended by researchers, teachers of morphological disciplines of medical universities in Russia (Moscow, Saint-Petersburg, Novosibirsk, Perm, Krasnoyarsk, Omsk, Yakutsk), invited, residents, graduate students. The conference discussed topical issues and strategic guidelines in the field of morphological scientific research in modern conditions, the popularization of scientific research in the field of morphology, the exchange of experience in improving the effectiveness of teaching morphological disciplines, the history of the development of higher medical school. An analysis of the reports presented at the conference showed that the morphological departments of medical universities need to develop the diversity and variability of ways to achieve educational results in modern learning conditions while expanding the independence and responsibility of educational organizations for the process and results of education; to introduce the scientific achievements of fundamental science into practice on the basis of joint scientific projects with clinical departments; develop and actively implement various ways and forms of popularization of medical knowledge among the population in order to familiarize society with the history of the development of higher medical education in the regions; study and implement the advanced pedagogical and scientific-methodological experience of the work of morphological departments, presented in the conference reports.
Prenatal physical activity and the gut microbiota of pregnant women: results from a preliminary investigation
Authors: Santarossa Sara , Sitarik Alexandra R. , Cassidy-Bushrow Andrea E. , Comstock Sarah S.
Published: August 2023

[Purpose] To determine whether physical activity (PA), specifically meeting the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity PA per week, is associated with gut microbiota composition in pregnant women.[Methods] In an ongoing birth cohort study, questions from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, which provides data on PA variables, were used to determine whether pregnant women met or exceeded the PA recommendations. To profile the composition of gut bacterial microbiota, 16S rRNA sequencing was performed on stool samples obtained from pregnant women. Differences in alpha diversity metrics (richness, Pielou’s evenness, and Shannon’s diversity) according to PA were determined using linear regression, whereas beta diversity relationships (Canberra and Bray-Curtis) were assessed using Permutational multivariate analysis of variance (PERMANOVA). Differences in relative taxon abundance were determined using DESeq2.[Results] The complete analytical sample included 23 women that were evaluated for both PA and 16S rRNA sequencing data (median age [Q1; Q3] = 30.5 [26.6; 34.0] years; 17.4% Black), and 11 (47.8%) met or exceeded the PA recommendations. Meeting or exceeding the PA recommendations during pregnancy was not associated with gut microbiota richness, evenness, or diversity, but it was related to distinct bacterial composition using both Canberra (p = 0.005) and Bray-Curtis (p = 0.022) distances. Significantly lower abundances of Bacteroidales, Bifidobacteriaceae, Lactobacillaceae, and Streptococcaceae were observed in women who met or exceeded the PA recommendations (all false discovery rates adjusted, p < 0.02).[Conclusion] Pregnant women who met or exceeded the PA recommendations showed altered gut microbiota composition. This study forms the basis for future studies on the impact of PA on gut microbiota during pregnancy.
Resistance exercise: a mighty tool that adapts, destroys, rebuilds and modulates the molecular and structural environment of skeletal muscle
Authors: Bersiner Käthe , Park So-Young , Schaaf Kirill , Yang Woo-Hwi , Theis Christian , Jacko Daniel , Gehlert Sebastian
Published: August 2023

[Purpose] Skeletal muscle regulates health and performance by maintaining or increasing strength and muscle mass. Although the molecular mechanisms in response to resistance exercise (RE) significantly target the activation of protein synthesis, a plethora of other mechanisms and structures must be involved in orchestrating the communication, repair, and restoration of homeostasis after RE stimulation. In practice, RE can be modulated by variations in intensity, continuity and volume, which affect molecular responses and skeletal muscle adaptation. Knowledge of these aspects is important with respect to planning of training programs and assessing the impact of RE training on skeletal muscle.[Methods] In this narrative review, we introduce general aspects of skeletal muscle substructures that adapt in response to RE. We further highlighted the molecular mechanisms that control human skeletal muscle anabolism, degradation, repair and memory in response to acute and repeated RE and linked these aspects to major training variables.[Results] Although RE is a key stimulus for the activation of skeletal muscle anabolism, it also induces myofibrillar damage. Nevertheless, to increase muscle mass accompanied by a corresponding adaptation of the essential substructures of the sarcomeric environment, RE must be continuously repeated. This requires the permanent engagement of molecular mechanisms that re-establish skeletal muscle integrity after each RE–induced muscle damage.[Conclusion] Various molecular regulators coordinately control the adaptation of skeletal muscle after acute and repeated RE and expand their actions far beyond muscle growth. Variations of key resistance training variables likely affect these mechanisms without affecting muscle growth.
Management after flap failure: a narrative review
Authors: Myers Paige L. , Tang Sherry Y.Q. , Saad Noah H. , Momoh Adeyiza O.
Published: August 2023

Autologous free tissue transfer for breast reconstruction is a well-established and reliable form of reconstruction for women undergoing mastectomies. These surgeries are performed with high rates of success; however, the consequences of flap failure can be devastating to patients and surgeons. Breast reconstruction decision making following flap loss is a uniquely individualized process, based on considerations of safety, patient goals and preferences, as well as the surgeon’s skillset. The first priority following flap failure is to provide thoughtful patient counseling and support through this difficult time. The aims of reconstruction salvage after flap loss are to excise unhealthy tissue and restore a breast mound of normal anatomical shape. We present an algorithm as a possible approach to managing flap failures. We also review the management of breast reconstruction following free flap failure, including the role of hematologic investigation, anticoagulation recommendations and secondary or tertiary reconstruction with both prosthetic and autologous techniques.
Підвищення ефективності антен міліметрового діапазону (огляд)
Authors: Гупта П.
Published: August 2023

Діапазон міліметрових хвиль привертає увагу вчених і дослідників, завдяки його потенційній можливості реалізувати високі швидкості передачі даних до 10 Гбіт/с і доступності широкої смуги пропускання у порівнянні з мікрохвильовим діапазоном. Антени, що розглядаються, є головним компонентом будь-якої технології бездротового зв’язку. Протягом останнього десятиліття проводились великі та активні дослідні роботи, що були присвячені антенним системам. Отже, даний огляд дає детальний аналіз антен міліметрового діапазону, що застосовувались в попередніх і теперішніх дослідженнях, пов’язаних із застосуванням систем 5G (п’ятого покоління). Вивчались і досліджувались кілька підходів, таких як стекінг, інтегрований в підкладку хвилевод, MIMO, пасивні елементи, використання «надкладки» і підхід на основі антенної системи (антенної решітки). В той же час, в цій роботі розглядаються алгоритми оптимізації для антен міліметрових хвиль як засіб підвищення коефіцієнту підсилення, розширення смуги пропускання та зменшення розмірів.
Belarus: Cooperation with Russia in the Conditions of the Sanctions
Authors: Astakhova S.
Published: August 2023

In the conditions of the implementation of the special military operation of the Russian Federation in Ukraine, the former logic of the economic relations of the Republic of Belarus and the Russian Federation with the countries of the collective West has completely changed. Sanctions pressure and isolation from the West have become a factor contributing to the consolidation of the positions of the two countries within the framework of the Union State. In the new conditions, the role of the Union State as the main platform for Russian-Belarusian cooperation has increased. The Republic of Belarus and the Russian Federation have taken concrete actions to expand economic, scientific and technical cooperation in the field of import substitution, as well as to deepen their integration.
The Influence of the “Ukrainian Factor” on the Transformation of the Post-Soviet Space
Authors: Belashchenko D. , Sikirazh V.
Published: August 2023

The article examines the role of Ukraine, as well as trends and events related to this country in the context of their influence on the development of the post-Soviet space, regional integration processes and other areas of interaction between the former Soviet republics. The authors highlight both the consolidating role of Kyiv and the negative impact leading to destabilization and further fragmentation of the region.
Addressing Phosphorus Waste in Open Flow Freshwater Fish Farms: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Nathanailides Cosmas , Kolygas Markos , Tsoumani Maria , Gouva Evangelia , Mavraganis Theodoros , Karayanni Hera
Published: August 2023

Legislation and interest to protect and restore freshwater and marine ecosystems from aquaculture's environmental impact is global. However, aquaculture induced eutrophication continues to be a major environmental issue. Open freshwater fish farms in particular, providing fish with phosphorus-rich feeds pollute aquatic ecosystems since water soluble phosphorus, uneaten feed, feces, and metabolic waste from farmed fish increase phosphorus concentration in the adjacent waters. Several intestinal enzymes, transporters, and regulating factors are implicated in dietary phosphorus retention of farmed fish. For example, alkaline phosphatase and other transporters help the anterior intestine absorb phosphorus, while pH, calcium, and vitamin D affect these enzymes and transporters. Intestinal morphology and gut microbiome may also affect this process. Reducing phosphorus pollution from open-flow fish farms requires a thorough understanding of processes that affect nutrient retention and absorption as well as of the impact of dietary factors, anti-nutritional substances, and intestinal morphology. Optimizing feed composition, adding functional feed ingredients, and managing gut health can reduce phosphorus release and improve aquaculture sustainability. Processing and functional feed additives can mitigate anti-nutritional factors and, addressing these issues will reduce aquaculture's environmental impact, ensuring aquatic ecosystem health and global food security
The Earth’s Rotation-Related Seismicity as a Precursor to the 2023 Mw 7.8 Gaziantep, Turkey Earthquake
Authors: Li Yane , Chen Xuezhong , Chen Lijuan
Published: August 2023

For earthquakes (M4.0) occurring along and arond the East Anatolian fault zone and the the Dead Sea fault zone between January 2002 and December 2022, we analyzed the correlation between the Earth's rotation and the earthquake occurrence before the Mw7.8 Gaziantep,Turkey earthquake occurring on 6 February 2023. We statistically evaluate the Earth's rotationally dependent seismicity. The results were judged by the P-value. There was a clear downward trend in the P-values from early 2020 to late 2022 in the study region. Starting in early 2021, the P-value drops below 0.1%, corresponding significant correlation between the Earth's rotation and the earthquake occurrence . We also calculated the spatial distribution of the P-values and obtained a result showing a low P-value area in the vicinity of the northeastern end of the aftershock zone. Although the stress caused by the Earth's rotation is very weak, when the focal medium is loaded to the critical state to release a large earthquake, the stress due to the Earth's rotation could control the earthauqke occurrence. Therefore, the lower P-values obtained in this study indicates the Earth's rotation-related seismicity prior to the Mw 7.8 Turkey earthquake and could be considered as its precursor.
Association Between Glomerular Filtration Rate and Thalassemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Khandker Shahad Saif , Jannat Nurani , Sarkar Deepannita , Pranto Alif Hasan , Hoque Ismoth Ara , Zaman Jemema , Uddin Md. Nizam , Suez Ehsan
Published: August 2023

Thalassemia is one of the most prevalent genetic disorders worldwide which has been previously found to have an association with several physiological and organ complications. Several studies found both its positive and inverse correlation with glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Therefore, in this meta-analysis, we tried to assess the accurate correlation of thalassemia with GFR. We searched in Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect, and from the initial 96 articles we finally could include 15 studies. The quality and publication bias assessment confirmed that all the studies were of high to moderate quality with no publication bias. The main outcome of the mean difference (MD) was -6.45, 95%CI: -18.50, 5.60 (P<0.00001), which indicated a negative correlation of GFR with thalassemia. The sensitivity analyses found one study as a slight outlier and reanalyzing the data excluding that study MD was achieved as -13.90, 95%CI: -24.22, -3.59 (P<0.00001) which even strongly supports our main outcome. Our result determined that the GFR is generally higher in healthy people as compared to thalassemia patients.
Antimicrobial Peptides for Combating Eukaryotic Pathogens: Anti-Histomonal, and Anti-Leishmanial Potential of Antimicrobial Peptides Released by Entomopathogenic Nematode Symbiont Bacteria
Authors: Fodor András , Hess Claudia , Ganas Petra , Boros Zsófia , Kiss János , Makrai László , Dublecz Károly , Pál László , Fodor László , Sebestyén Anna , Klein Michael G. , Tarasco Eustachio , Kulkarni Manjusha M. , McGwire Bradford S. , Vellai Tibor , Hess Michael
Published: August 2023

Antimicrobial peptides provide a powerful toolkit for combating multidrug resistance. Combatting eukaryotic pathogens is complicated by the fact, the intracellular drug targets in the eukaryotic pathogen are frequently homologs of cellular structures of vital importance in the host organism. The entomopathogenic bacteria, (symbionts of entomopathogenic nematode species), release a series of non-ribosomal templated antimicrobial peptides, some may be potential drug candidates. The ability of an entomopathogenic nematode /entomopathogenic bacterium symbiotic complex to survive in a given polyxenic milieu is a coevolutionary product, explaining that those gene complexes which are responsible for the biosynthesis of different non-ribosomal templated antimicrobial protective peptides (including those which are potently capable to inactivate the protist mammalian -pathogen Leishmania and the gallinaceous bird pathogen Histomonas) are co-regulated. Our approach is based on comparative antimicrobial bioassays of the culture media of the wild-type and regulatory mutant strains. We concluded that Xenorhabdus budapestensis and X. szentirmaii are excellent sources of non-ribosomal templated antimicrobial peptides, that are efficient antagonists of the mentioned pathogens. Data on selective cytotoxicity of different cell-free culture media encourages us to forecast that the recently discovered “easy-PACId” research strategy is suitable for constructing EPB strains producing and releasing single, harmless, non-ribosomal templated antimicrobial peptides with considerable drug, (probiotic) -candidate potential.
Effect of Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplementation on Oxidative Stress- And Lipid Parameters in Women Diagnosed With Low-Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions (LSIL)
Authors: Divković Anja , Karasalihović Zinaida , Rumora Samarin Ivana , Sabitović Damir , Radić Kristina , Golub Nikolina , Vujić Lovorka , Rajković Marija Grdić , Vitali Čepo Dubravka
Published: August 2023

Limited scientific evidence shows that alpha lipoic acid (ALA) can induce regression rates of low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL) but the mechanisms of these effects have not been elucidated. To gain a broader insight into its therapeutic potential and mechanisms of action, the effects of 3-month supplementation with 600 mg of ALA on antioxidant- and lipid status param-eters in 100 patients with LSIL were investigated in randomized placebo-controlled study. Obtained results were discussed in terms of patients’ initial metabolic status and diet quality (particularly nutritional intake of antioxidants). Obtained results showed that oxidative status biomarkers were not significantly affected by ALA supplementation. However, serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was positively affected in the subgroup of patients with higher dietary antioxidant intake. Surprisingly, ALA supplementation resulted with small but statistically significant increase of serum low density lipoprotein (LDL) and observed effect was significantly affected by the initial lipid status of participants. Larger studies are necessary to gain additional insights on the clinical significance of ALA as an antioxidant and hypolipemic agent and to optimize its potential application in LSIL treatment.
A Critical Juncture in the Global RMG Production Network of Bangladesh: Safety Reformations through Rapid Transfer of Technology
Authors: Trishna Shagufta Munir , Khan Shahed , Zaman Atiq
Published: August 2023

Findings primarily drawn from literature review and interviews with professional resource persons suggest that although the RMG industry of Bangladesh has made substantial progress in correcting structural risks within factory buildings, fire still remains an unresolved issue posing unceasing threat to safety. These findings are significant for all stakeholders within the global supply chain network of Bangladesh, concerned with improving sustainability of the RMG industry and seeking to outline the responsibilities for each group of actors towards preventing building disasters. Both Tazreen Fashion fire incident and the Rana Plaza building collapse served as ‘critical junctures’ in rapid transfer of physical technology to enhance structural safety and streamline production planning within the RMG manufacturing factories within Bangladesh. However, the transfer of social technology within the supply chain network of a developing nation in areas such as development of organisational safety culture or promoting workplace ethics, requires long-term planning and prolonged practices. The paper thus concludes that in developing countries, transfer of physical technology is more readily achievable than the adoption of social technology.
Assessment of Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Consumer Behavior Using the AHP Model
Authors: Šostar Marko , Ristanović Vladimir
Published: August 2023

Consumer behavior is unpredictable. The accelerated pace of life and daily changes in the desires and preferences of each individual require significant marketing efforts to fulfill needs. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has created significant disruptions in the market to which consumers have responded in a specific way. Our previous research on this topic [11], which included an analysis of various factors that influence consumer habits, was the basis for a new, more detailed analysis of the impact on individual consumption. The results of our previous research set psy-chological influence as a significant factor in consumer behavior. That is the main reason we put the impact of COVID-19 at the center of this research. The analysis was conducted on an existing sample of 559 respondents in the Republic of Croatia. The data obtained by the questionnaire were used to develop a hierarchical model. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) is a model based on deci-sion-making and was used to rank individual influences on consumer behavior due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These influences have had a significant impact on consumer buying habits.
Evaluation of the Effect of the Oral Therapeutic Dose of Firocoxib on Healthy Horses
Authors: De Araújo Renatha Almeida , Sales Nathali . Adrielli Agassi , Basile Roberta Carvalho , Feringer-Junior Walter Heinz , Apparício Maricy , Ferraz Guilherme Camargo , Queiroz-Neto Antonio
Published: August 2023

Firocoxib is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug specifically formulated for veterinary medicine and selectively acts on inhibiting the cyclooxygenase 2 enzyme(COX-2). This study aimed to evaluate the possible adverse effects of administering oral therapeutic firocoxib on gastric mucosa, hematological parameters, coagulation cascade, and hepatic and renal biochemistry in healthy horses. Nine clinically healthy Arabian horses, approximately nine years old, received 0.1mg/kg of oral firocoxib for 14 days. Before beginning treatment, a gastroscopic examination was conducted, and venous blood samples were obtained for laboratory tests on D0. Follow-up blood samples and gastroscopic examinations were taken on D7 and D14 after starting treatment and one week after completing treatment on D21. No changes were found in the gastroscopic and hematological tests. Additionally, coagulation and serum biochemistry levels remain between normal values for this particular species. However, the increased activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT) indicate reduced blood coagulation capacity, which contradicts the expected effect of treatment with selective COX-2 inhibitors, as these drugs theoretically promote coagulation. Administering Firocoxib to horses is safe as it does not cause any significant adverse reactions. Therefore, it is a suitable option for managing inflammatory conditions in these animals.
Flavones and Related Compounds: Synthesis and Biological Activity
Authors: Leonte Denisa , Ungureanu Daniel , Zaharia Valentin
Published: August 2023

This review focuses on the synthesis and biological activity of flavones and their related flavonoidic compounds: flavonols and aurones. Among the biological activities of flavones and aurones, the anticancer, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties are highlighted and detailed in this review. The most applied method for the synthesis of flavones and aurones is based on the oxidative cyclisation of o-hydroxychalcones. Depending on the reaction conditions and the structure of the precursor, in some cases several cyclization products result simultaneously: flavones, flavanones, flavonols and aurones. Based on the literature data and the results obtained in our research group, our aim is to highlight the most promising methods for the synthesis of flavones, as well as the synthetic routes for the other structurally related cyclization products, hydroxyflavones and aurones, considering that in practice it is difficult to predict which is the main or exclusive cyclisation product of o-hydroxychalcones under certain reaction conditions.
Nano-and Microplastics Migration from Plastic Food Packaging into Milk and Dairy Products: Impact on Nutrient Digestion, Absorption, and Metabolism
Authors: Kaseke Tafadzwa , Lujic Tamara , Cirkovic Velickovic Tanja
Published: August 2023

Abstract: The ongoing use of plastic polymers to manufacture food packaging has raised concerns about the presence of nano- and microplastics (NMPs) in a variety of foods. This review provides the most recent data on NMPs' migration from plastic packaging into milk and dairy products. Also discussed are the possible effects of NMPs on nutrient digestion, absorption, and metabolism. Different kinds of milk products, including skimmed or whole liquid and powder milk, infant formula milk, and other dairy products, have been found to contain NMPs of various sizes, shapes, and concentrations. NMPs may interact with proteins, carbohydrates, and fats and have a detrimental impact on how well these nutrients are digested and absorbed by the body. The presence of NMPs in the gastrointestinal tract may impact how lipids, proteins, glucose, iron, and energy are metabolised, increasing the risk of developing health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and some cancers. In addition to NMP, plastic oligomers released from food packaging material have been found to migrate to various food simulants and milk, though their effect on human health has yet to be investigated. Viewpoints on potential directions for future studies on NMPs and nutrient digestion, absorption, and health are also presented in this review.
3-D Body-Wave Velocity Structure of the Southern Aegean, Greece
Authors: Karakonstantis Andreas , Vallianatos Filippos
Published: August 2023

This study delves into the Southern Aegean region where the subduction of the oceanic Mediterranean lithosphere under the Aegean continental one takes place. This region is considered one of the most active ones in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea due to intense tectonic movements in the Late Quaternary. More than 1200 manually revised events from 2018 to 2023 have been used in order to obtain the 3-D structure of body-wave velocity and VP/VS ratio to 80 km depth, through Earthquake Tomography. A series of resolution tests have been performed and demonstrated fair resolution of the derived velocity structures in area of interest. The derived anomalies of body waves (dVP, dVS), and VP/VS ratio provided important information about the Southern Aegean regional tectonics, and secondarily active faults of smaller scale (>20 km). The region is marked by significant low-velocity anomalies in the crust and uppermost mantle, beneath the active arc volcanoes. The seismicity related to the Hellenic Subduction Zone (HSZ) is connected to a low-angle positive anomaly of VP and VS, correlated to the observed intermediate-depth seismicity (H≥40 km) in this part of the study area. This result could be related to the diving HSZ slab.
Implementation of ABAQUS User Subroutines for Viscoplasticity of 316 Stainless Steel and Zircaloy-4
Authors: Yue Xiaowei , Zhou Jinxiong
Published: August 2023

This paper describes the formulations for viscoplasticity of metals based on the Chaboche and Delobelle model. The implementations of the viscoplastic models were detailed herein and then implemented via user subroutines for material models (UMAT) in ABAQUS. Two typical metals, i.e., 316 Stainless Steel and Zircaloy-4, were chosen as examples and their viscoplastic behaviors were captured. Numerical simulations are compared to reported experiments to validate the models and the UMAT codes. Typical viscoplastic behaviors of both metals, such as stress relaxation and creep, were captured well against available experiments. We publicize all the data and codes via: https://github.com/XJTU-Zhou-group/ABAQUS_UMAT_316ss_Zr4.
Impact of Fixed Cost Increase on the Optimization of Two-Stage Sustainable Supply Chain Network
Authors: Mostafa Ahmed , Moustafa Kamal , Elshaer Raafat
Published: August 2023

Most of the literature on the optimization problem of transportation in supply chain networks (SCN) considered fixed costs (FC). However, in the practical applications of this problem it is important to study the effect of FC. This paper examines the impact of fixed cost increase as well as the variable cost on the optimization of a Two-Stage SCN. To do so, two mathematical models for mixed-integer nonlinear programming are developed. The first model optimizes fixed and variable costs in addition to the opening cost, whereas the second model only optimizes variable and opening costs. To evaluate the effect of considering FC on the optimization supply chain problem, four groups of instances are randomly generated, and solved using Lingo. The results of the two models are compared utilizing the average percentage deviation. In addition, sensitivity analysis is performed to determine the impact of changes in opening and variable costs on the considered optimization problem. The computational results and the sensitivity analysis show that the first model with minimized FC outperforms the second model, which does not consider the FC in minimization and FC affect the optimization.
Designing and Validation of a Droplet Digital PCR Procedure for Diagnosis and Accurate Quantification of Nervous Necrosis Virus
Authors: Souto Sandra , Olveira José G. , López-Vázquez Carmen , Bandín Isabel , Dopazo Carlos P.
Published: August 2023

The viral nervous necrosis virus (VNNV) is the causative agent of an important disease affecting fish species cultured worldwide. Early and accurate diagnosis is at present the most effective control and prevention tool, and the molecular techniques have been strongly introduced and accepted by official organizations. Among those, real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (rt-qPCR) is nowadays displacing other molecular techniques. However, another PCR-based technology, the droplet digital PCR (ddPCR), is on the increase. It has many advantages over qPCR, such as higher sensitivity and more reliability of the quantification. Therefore, we decided to design and validate a protocol for diagnosis and quantification of SJ and RG type VNNV, using reverse transcription-ddPCR (RT-ddPCR). We obtained an extremely low limit of detection, 10 to 100-folds lower than with RT-qPCR. Quantification by RT-ddPCR, with a dynamic range of 6.8 – 6.8 x 104 (SJ type) or 1.04 x 101 – 1.04 x 105 (RG) cps/rctn, was more reliable than with RT-qPCR. The procedure was tested and validated in field samples, providing the high clinical sensitivity and negative predictive values. In conclusion, we propose this method to substitute RT-qPCR protocols because it exceeds the expectations of qPCR in the diagnosis and quantification of VNNV.
Converged Security and Information Management System as a Tool for Smart City Infrastructure Resilience Assessment
Authors: Hromada Martin , Rehak David , Skobiej Bartosz , Bajer Martin
Published: August 2023

Current research on smart cities is primarily focused on the area of applicability of information and communication technologies. However, in the context of a multidisciplinary approach, it is also necessary to pay attention to the resilience and converged security of individual infrastructures. Converged security represents a particular security type based on a selected spectrum of certain convergent security types of, assuming the creation of a complementary whole. Considering the outputs of the analysis of security breaches manifestations, this kind of security makes it possible to detect emerging security breaches earlier (still in the symptom stage), thus providing a more efficient and targeted solution suitable for building smart city infrastructure. In its essence, the article refers the practical application of the theoretical principles of converged security presented in the publication to a functional sample, deployed and tested in practical conditions of selected smart city infrastructure protection and resilience. Considering the nature of the practical application, the convergence of a wider spectrum of smart security alarm systems in the context of resilience assessment is defined. In the beginning, the general principles of security/ safety and the need for their convergence are presented. In this context, the mathematical model called Converged Resilience Assessment method is presented for better understanding. Subsequently, PSIM and SIEM systems are described as a technological concept that can be used for resilience assessment. The most beneficial part is the structural, process and functional description of the Converged Security and Information Management System (CSIM) using the concept of smart security alarm systems converged security.