bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Dutch converts to Islam: On turbulent trajectories and (non-) involvement in jihadist movements
Authors: Geelhoed Fiore , Staring Richard , Schuurman Bart
Published: June 2023

"This study focuses on increasing our understanding of the different pathways converts take during conversion to Islam. It looks specifically at the following research question: “How do the pathways of converts involved in jihadist movements differ from those of converts who are not, in terms of their life prior to Islam, their conversion experience and the form of involvement with the Islamic community after conversion?” This question is addressed using semi-structured interviews with a diverse group of 26 Dutch converts to Islam. Results show that there are many similarities, yet also some differences in the pre-conversion lives of the converts we studied, in how they experienced the conversion itself and their involvement with Islamic communities after their conversion. The differences we found, emerged largely from how the respondents shaped and experienced their lives as Muslims. Here we noted not just the important role of the social milieu in which the converts find themselves, and how their surroundings react to their new identities, but also the influence of their own agency in terms of their reactions (or lack thereof) to perceived injustice and their efforts at self-study. Importantly, our study also highlights the fluidity and heterogeneity of the post-conversion experience. Just as Muslims should not be seen as a homogenous group, so too should care be taken to realise that converts’ outlook on their religion can and does change over time, sometimes showing quite dramatic fluctuations from Salafi-Jihadist to non-believer. We hope that our study provides insights into conversion to Islam in general, that it helps address why some converts become involved with jihadist movements, but also that it underlines the importance of treating converts to Islam not as a potential security threat, but as a diverse group of individuals with different and evolving perceptions of their religion and their roles within it"
Türk Savunma Sanayisi Ürünlerinden İnsansız Hava Aracı Kargu’nun Etimolojisi Üzerine
Authors: ÖZKAYA Hakkı
Published: June 2023

İnsanlığın ilk dönemlerinden itibaren neredeyse her medeniyet tarafından savunma ve saldırı aracı olarak kullanılan silah, teknolojiye paralel olarak bir gelişme ivmesi kazanmıştır. Genelde saldırı ya da savunma aracı olarak kullanılmasının haricinde silah toplumlar için kültür aracı olarak da kullanılmıştır. Bununla birlikte silahın ait olduğu topluma fayda sağlamak adına taarruz ve müdafaa aracı olması bakımından; yapıldığı materyalden aldığı şekliyle onu işleyenin maharetini sergileyen süslemeleriyle ait olduğu bireyin toplumun içinde bir yere konumlanmasını sağlamaktadır. Aynı zamanda yüce bir iktidar nişanı olan silah ait olduğu milletin spor, sanat ve edebiyat evrenini şekillendirmektedir. Bu doğrultuda Türk dilinin ve düşüncesinin kadim geçmişinin izini sürmemize yardımcı olması bakımından silahın önemi açıktır. Savaş ve askerlik konularının son derece mühim olduğu Türk toplumunda da kapsamlı bir silah kültürünün Türk devlet aklı ve kurumları vasıtasıyla oluştuğu görülmektedir. Günümüzde bu kurumların öncülüğünü üstlenenlerden biri de Savunma Sanayisi Başkanlığıdır. Bu makalede Türk savunma sanayisi ürünlerinden insansız hava aracı kargunun etimolojisi üzerinde durulacaktır.
Ok vagy okozat? A környezeti és a pénzügyi teljesítmény összefüggésének elemzése nemzetközi nagyvállalati adatokon
Authors: Takács András , Erdős Sándor
Published: June 2023

Az utóbbi három évtizedben egyre inkább a kutatók és a gyakorlati szakemberek figyelmének középpontjába került az a kérdés, hogy a környezettudatos technológiák bevezetése, a termelés tisztábbá tétele csupán az erre irányuló társadalmi nyomásra adott szükséges válasz-e a vállalatok részéről, vagy a pénzügyi eredményességre mérhető, pozitív hatást kifejtő, észszerű befektetés. A nemzetközi szakirodalom az 1990-es években még kétes eredményekkel szolgált, azonban az ezredforduló után, és főként a 2010-es és a 2020-as években közzétett empirikus eredmények már egyértelműen igazolták, hogy a környezeti teljesítmény javítása messze túlmutat a bolygóért érzett felelősségen, és egyértelműen kedvező hatással van a vállalatok pénzügyi teljesítményére. Ennek az ok-okozati összefüggésnek a vélelmezése oly mértékben dominássá vált a kutatásokban, hogy szinte egyáltalán nem merült fel az a lehetőség, hogy a hatás fordított irányú is lehet, és a környezeti teljesítmény terén elsősorban azok a vállalatok járhatnak az élen, amelyek erős pénzügyi háttérrel rendelkeznek. Tanulmányunkban erre a kutatási résre koncentrálva, egy nemzetközi nagyvállalati minta adatait elemezve mutatjuk be, hogy a környezettudatosság terén az erős pénzügyi helyzetben lévő vállalatok nagyobb eséllyel teljesítenek jól, mint a pénzügyileg gyenge teljesítményű cégek, és ez a hatás a termelővállalatok esetében erősebb, mint a szolgáltatócégeknél. A pénzügyi eredményesség tehát nemcsak az eredménye, hanem szükséges feltétele is a környezeti teljesítmény javításának.
Dor Neuropática Periférica Induzida pela Quimioterapia e o Impacto na Qualidade de Vida
Authors: Oliveira Marta , Reis-Pina Paulo
Published: June 2023

N/a.
Modelos de pinturas de Benjamin Mary utilizados na Flora Brasiliensis
Authors:   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Assis Júnior Heitor de
Published: June 2023

Este artigo traz três modelos que ainda não haviam sido identificados durante a elaboração da minha dissertação de mestrado e que não constam do catálogo organizado por Gilberto Ferrez a partir da Coleção Hans von Martius da Biblioteca de Munique, utilizado naquela como referência. A importância do trabalho de identificação de modelos para as pranchas de uma obra científica como a Flora Brasiliensis4 sugere o papel do artista viajante diretamente ligado ao trabalho do cientista e sua inclusão num mercado de trabalho fora das academias. Além de necessário agente de captação de imagem e preservação de cores de material botânico herborizado, o artista tinha a oportunidade de aprender particularidades que posteriormente seriam incluídas em obras científicas de diversos autores.
Formação de professores na Conferência Interestadual do Ensino Primário (Brasil, 1921)
Authors: Hoeller Solange Aparecida de Oliveira , Daros Maria das Dores
Published: June 2023

Trata-se de uma análise sobre a formação de professores, na perspectiva da modernidade pedagógica, requerida no Brasil no início dos anos de 1920, a partir de discussões presentes na Conferência Interestadual do Ensino Primário CIEP-RJ, ocorrida na capital do país – Rio de Janeiro – no ano de 1921. Esta abordagem se estruturou, de modo mais específico, a partir da tese de número 3: “Organização e uniformização do ensino normal no país. Formação, deveres e garantias de um professorado primário nacional” (BRASIL, 1922). Apresenta-se o objetivo central de investigar aspectos e elementos que se entrecruzam e que podem ser tomados como representativos de projetos em disputa para a formação do professorado, na perspectiva da modernidade pedagógica, requerida no Brasil no início dos anos de 1920. Trata-se de pesquisa de cunho documental, na perspectiva da história da educação e, em consideração ao método histórico, o percurso teórico metodológico e as análises realizadas contemplaram os conceitos de moderno/modernidade. Apresenta-se a questão problema: Como compreender a CIEP-RJ como mobilizadora de projetos em defesa e disputa de concepções, no intento de estabelecer sob que sentidos e significados a modernidade pedagógica para a formação de professores deveria estar assentada no Brasil no início dos anos de 1920? Atingir a modernidade pedagógica em relação à formação do professor consistia em articular alguns aspectos que, por hipótese, garantiriam o pretendido: tanto de aspectos materiais, como criação de escolas; e burocráticos, aspectos orçamentários e subvenção; quanto aos pedagógicos, marcados pela psicologia, entendida pela sua cientificidade imprescindível na formação do professorado.
Constructing Optimal Designs for Order-of-Addition Experiments Using a Hybrid Algorithm
Authors: Wang Dongying , Wang Sumin
Published: June 2023

For order-of-addition experiments, the response is affected by the addition order of the experimental materials. Consequently, the main interest focuses on creating a predictive model and an optimal design for optimizing the response. Van Nostrand (1995) proposed the pairwise-order (PWO) model for detecting PWO effects. Under the PWO model, the full PWO design is optimal under various criteria but is often unaffordable because of the large run size. In this paper, we consider the D-, A- and M.S.-optimal fractional PWO designs. We first present some results on information matrices. Then, a flexible and efficient algorithm is given for generating these optimal PWO designs. Numerical simulation shows that the generated design has an appealing efficiency in comparison with the full PWO design, though with only a small fraction of runs. Several comparisons with existing designs illustrate that the generated designs achieve better efficiencies, and the best PWO designs and some selected 100% efficient PWO designs generated by the new algorithm are reported.
Narrative Review on Methods of Activating Irrigation Liquids for Root Canal Treatment
Authors: Raducka Martyna , Piszko Aleksandra , Piszko Paweł J. , Jawor Natalia , Dobrzynski Maciej , Grzebieluch Wojciech , Mikulewicz Marcin , Skośkiewicz-Malinowska Katarzyna
Published: June 2023

As indicated by standards of modern dentistry, the essence of endodontic treatment is chemo-mechanical disinfection of root canal system. The infected tooth should be eradicated of microorganisms and sealed tight with biocompatible materials. Vital element of this process is irrigation of canals with designated solutions as well as their activation. This review article summarizes various techniques of activation of irrigants for endodontic treatment and compares them. Results were gathered using PubMed and Google Scholar databases by searching keywords: irrigation, activation, sodium hypochlorite, irrigation protocols.
Awareness and Perception of Drug Resistant TB Among Healthcare Providers in the Public (Government) and Private Sectors in Northern and Central India: An Exploratory Survey
Authors: Kohli Pratibha , Pandey Ramendra , Kohli Mohan P. , Bhargava Salil , Raj V. Samuel
Published: June 2023

Background: Although Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the oldest diseases known to mankind, many practitioners are still unaware of various aspects of management of TB including drug resistant TB. To be able to make an impact on the disease burden we need to understand the knowledge, attitude and practices (KAP) of practitioners, both in government and private sector, towards TB case management. Methodology: A random cross-sectional survey of 99 respondents to assess the KAP towards TB case management using a digital semi-structured questionnaire which was pre-tested and administered to allopathic practitioners from across States in North and Central India. Results: 77% responders were government doctors and 23% were private practitioners. Chest physicians accounted for 61% of the responders. 26% of government and 78% of private doctors relied on sources which are difficult to validate for their knowledge on drug resistant TB management. There were large variations seen in knowledge on modes of transmission, standard precautions, extent of drug resistant TB, diagnostics as well as treatment regimen for drug resistant TB. Conclusion: The knowledge of both sector doctors especially amongst private practitioners with respect to the awareness of extent, diagnosis, and treatment and infection control measures for drug resistant TB is suboptimal which translates to poor diagnostic, therapeutic and infection control choices amongst private practitioners. If India has to achieve the targets for TB Elimination by 2025, serious work needs to be done to upgrade the knowledge of the private sector doctors on drug resistant tuberculosis. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, GoI needs to have regular educational programs for the private practitioners coupled with awareness campaigns and frequent surveys to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices being followed in the private sector for TB management including drug resistant TB.
Harnessing Nature's Ingenuity: A Comprehensive Exploration of Nanocellulose from Production to Cutting-Edge Applications in Engineering and Sciences
Authors: Sofiah A. G. N. , Pasupuleti J. , Samykano M. , Kadirgama K. , Koh S. P. , Tiong S. K. , Pandey A. K. , Yaw C.T. , Natarajan S. K.
Published: June 2023

Primary materials supply is the heart for engineering and sciences; depletion of natural resources and an increase in the human population by a billion in 13 to 15 years pose a critical concern on the sustainability of the materials. Therefore, functionalizing renewable materials, such as nanocellulose, possibly exploiting its properties for various practical applications, has been undertaken worldwide. Nanocellulose has emerged as a dominant green natural material with attractive and tailorable physicochemical properties, renewable, sustainable, biocompatibility, and tunable surface properties. Nanocellulose is derived from cellulose, the most abundant polymer in nature with remarkable properties of nanomaterials. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the methods used for nanocellulose preparation, structure-property and processing-property correlations, and the application of nanocellulose and its nanocomposite materials. This article differentiates the classification of nanocellulose, provides a brief account of the production methods that have been developed for isolating nanocellulose, highlights a range of unique properties of nanocellulose that have been extracted from different kinds of experiments and studies; and elaborates on nanocellulose potential applications in various areas. The present review is anticipated to provide the readers regarding the progress and knowledge related to nanocellulose. Pushing the boundaries of nanocellulose further into cutting edge applications will be of particular interest for the future, especially as cost-effective commercial sources of nanocellulose continue to emerge.
Maternal and Infant Histo-Blood Group Antigens (Hbga) Profiles and It’s Influence on Oral Rotavirus Vaccine (Rotarix®) Immunogenicity Among Infants in Zambia
Authors: Chauwa Adriace , Laban Natasha Makabilo , Bosomprah Samuel , Phiri Bernard , Chibuye Mwelwa , Chilyabanyama Obvious Nchimunya , Munsaka Sody , Simuyandi Michelo , Mwape Innocent , Mubanga Cynthia , Chirwa Masuzyo , Chisenga Caroline , Chilengi Roma
Published: June 2023

Live-attenuated, oral rotavirus vaccines have significantly reduced rotavirus-associated diarrhoea morbidity and infant mortality. However, vaccine immunogenicity is diminished in low-income countries. We investigated whether maternal and infant intrinsic susceptibility to rotavirus infection via histo-blood group antigen (HBGA) profiles influenced rotavirus (ROTARIX®) vaccine-induced responses in Zambia. We studied 135 mother-infant pairs under a rotavirus vaccine clinical trial aged 6 to 12 weeks at pre-vaccination up to 12 months old. We determined maternal and infant ABO/H, Lewis, and secretor HBGA phenotypes, and infant FUT2 HBGA genotypes. Vaccine immunogenicity was measured as anti-rotavirus IgA antibody titres. Overall, 34 (31.3%) of children were seroconverted at 14 weeks, and no statistically significant difference in seroconversion was observed across the various HBGA profiles in early infant life. We also observed a statistically significant difference in rotavirus-IgA titres across infant HBGA profiles at 12 months though no statistically significant difference was observed between study arms. There was no association between maternal HBGA profiles and infant vaccine immunogenicity. Overall, infant HBGA was associated with RV-Vaccine immunogenicity at 12 months as opposed to early infant life. Further investigation into the low efficacy of ROTARIX® and appropriate intervention is key to unlocking full vaccine benefits for U5 children.
Integrating “Neoliberal-Turn” and “Social-Turn” Constructs in Examining Sustainable Development and Happiness and Life Satisfaction: A Global, Country Cluster, and Country Level Study
Authors: Canatay Arman , Prieto Leonel , Amin Muhammad Ruhul
Published: June 2023

This study explores several global and country cluster sustainable development (herein SD) models. It jointly examines constructs from the “Neoliberal-turn” ((e.g., Institutional Enhancers (e.g., business freedom, property rights, government integrity, and judicial effectiveness), Financial Enhancers (e.g., government spending and monetary, trade, investment, and financial freedoms), Foreign Direct Investment, Global Competitiveness-institutions, and Global Competitiveness-innovation-sophistication)), and the “Social-turn” (five SD pillars (e.g., Planet, People, Peace, Prosperity, and Resources), which synthesize the 17 United Nations SD goals); and Happiness and Life Satisfaction (herein H&LS). The study examines a large and diverse set of relationships encompassing 11 years of data of 108 social, economic, and environmental indicators from 129 countries at the global, country cluster, and country levels. We analyze data using structural equation modeling. Remarkably, Planet, an SD pillar constituted by biophysical variables, is the least of the five SD pillars positively related to the "neoliberal-turn" constructs and H&LS. Results show model configurations and scale effects. Furthermore, findings reveal both synergies between neoliberal and the five SD pillars as well as both negative and non-significant relationships among them. The diversity of results calls for further model integration and specificity. Diverse findings entail caution and difficulties in generalizing knowledge. Similarly, results suggest that it is not advisable, since there may be many different and partly legitimate alternatives, to rely on just one perspective (e.g., giving primacy to economic-based analyses) and or in analyses at only one scale. The perspective effects and the stakes involved in SD urgently call for more collaborative efforts at all levels.
Breast Cancer Detection in Mammography Images: A CNN-Based Approach with Feature Selection
Authors: Jafari Zahra , Karami Ebrahim
Published: June 2023

The prompt and accurate diagnosis of breast lesions, including the distinction between cancer, non-cancer, and suspicious cancer, plays a crucial role in the prognosis of breast cancer. In this paper, we introduce a novel method based on feature extraction and reduction for detection of breast cancer in mammography images. First, we extract features from multiple pre-trained convolutional neural network (CNN) models, and then concatenate them. The most informative features are selected based on their mutual information with the target variable. Subsequently, the selected features can be classified using a machine learning algorithm. We evaluate our approach using four different machine learning algorithms, and our results demonstrate that the neural network-based classifier yields an accuracy as high as 92% for the RSNA dataset which is a new dataset that provides two views and additional features such as age. We compare our proposed algorithm with state-of-the-art methods and demonstrate its superiority, particularly in terms of accuracy and sensitivity. For the MIAS dataset, we achieve an accuracy as high as 94.5%, and for the DDSM dataset, an accuracy of 96% is attained. These results highlight the effectiveness of our method in accurately diagnosing breast lesions and surpassing existing approaches.
Determination of Safety-oriented Pavement Friction Performance Ratings at Network Level Using a Hybrid Clustering Algorithm
Authors: Bao Jieyi , Jiang Yi , Li Shuo
Published: June 2023

Pavement friction plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of road networks. Accurately assessing friction levels is vital for effective pavement maintenance and management strategies employed by state highway agencies. Traditionally, friction evaluations have been conducted on a case-by-case basis, focusing on specific road sections. However, this approach fails to provide a comprehensive assessment of friction conditions across the entire road network. This paper introduces a hybrid clustering algorithm, namely the combination of density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (DBSCAN) and Gaussian mixture model (GMM), to perform pavement friction performance rating across a statewide road network. A large, safety-oriented dataset is first generated by integrating network friction and vehicle crash data based on the attributes contributing possibly to friction related crashes. One-, two-, and multi-dimensional clustering analyses, respectively, are then performed to rate pavement friction. The Chi-square test is further employed to validate and identify the practical ratings. It is shown that by effectively capturing the hidden, intricate patterns within the integrated, complex dataset and prioritizing friction-related safety attributes, the hybrid clustering algorithm can produce pavement friction ratings that align effectively with the current practices of the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) in friction management.
Assessment of Influencing Factors on Consumer Behavior using the AHP Model
Authors: Šostar Marko , Ristanović Vladimir
Published: June 2023

The influence of numerous factors determines and changes the daily behavior of consumers. This paper aims to estimate and rank the weight of cultural, social, personal, and psychological factors that change the buying habits of individuals. The research was conducted on a sample of 559 re-spondents. Data from the survey were used to create a hierarchical model structure. The Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) as a decision-making method was used in the analysis to estimate and rank the factors that influence consumer habits. An analysis of results showed that the personal and psychological factors have the principal influence on consumer habits. Personal budget, as the dominant criterion in a group of set criteria, contributed to the fact that the personal factors have the dominant influence on consumer habits. The work showed that the choice of the method used is relevant to the results and that the analysis of the impact on consumer habits can be expanded by including several factors.
Microbiome: The Next Frontier in Psychedelic Renaissance
Authors: Kargbo Robert B.
Published: June 2023

The psychedelic renaissance has reignited interest in the therapeutic potential of psychedelics for mental health and well-being. An emerging area of interest is the potential modulation of psychedelic effects by the gut microbiome - the ecosystem of microorganisms residing in our digestive tract. This review explores the intersection of the gut microbiome and psychedelic therapy, underlining potential implications for personalized medicine and mental health. We delve into the current understanding of the gut-brain axis, its influence on mood, cognition, and behavior, and how the microbiome may affect the metabolism and bioavailability of psychedelic substances. We also discuss the role of microbiome variations in shaping individual responses to psychedelics, along with potential risks and benefits. Moreover, we consider the prospect of microbiome-targeted interventions as a fresh approach to boost or modulate psychedelic therapy's effectiveness. By synthesizing insights from the fields of psychopharmacology, microbiology, and neuroscience, our objective is to advance knowledge about the intricate relationship between the microbiome and psychedelic substances, thereby paving the way for novel strategies to optimize mental health outcomes amid the ongoing psychedelic renaissance.
Dynamic Fitting Strategy for Physiological Models: A Case Study of Cardiorespiratory Model for Simulation of Incremental Aerobic Exercise
Authors: Sarmiento Carlos Andrés , Hernández Alher Mauricio , Serna Leidy Yanet , Mañanas Miguel Ángel
Published: June 2023

The use of mathematical models of physiological systems in medicine has allowed the development of diagnostic, treatment, and medical educational tools, but their application for predictive, preventive, and personalized purposes is restricted by their complexity. Although there are strategies that reduce the complexity of applying models by fitting techniques, they focus on a single instant of time, neglecting the effect of the system's temporal evolution. The aim of this work is to propose a dynamic fitting strategy of physiological models with large number of parameters and a constrained amount of experimental data, focused on obtaining better predictions based on the system's temporal trend and useful to predict future states. It was applied in a cardiorespiratory model as a case study. Experimental data from a longitudinal study of healthy adult subjects under aerobic exercise were used for fitting and validation. The model predictions obtained at steady-state using the proposed strategy and the nominal values of the parameters were compared. The best results corresponded mostly to the proposed strategy, mainly regarding the overall prediction error. The results evidenced the usefulness of the dynamic fitting strategy, highlighting its use for predictive, preventive, and personalized applications.
A Practical Type System for Formal Verification CPS &Amp; IoT C/C++ Programs
Authors: Manzhos Yuriy , Sokolova Yevheniia
Published: June 2023

Misuse of measurement units and orientations leads to errors in scientific applications, Cyber Physical Systems (CPS), and IoT C/C++ programs. Standard type system are inadequate in preventing such errors. Although dimensional and orientational analysis in physics can manually detect these errors in equations, analyzing complex code with intricate physical computations is impractical. To overcome this challenge, we propose an advanced type system that incorporates units and orientations as integral components within a specialized type library. Our enhanced type system automatically detects potential errors during compile time by representing physical quantities as types and utilizing dimensional analysis, orientational analysis, and metaprogramming techniques. Our improved type system enables formal verification of C++ software, successfully verifying programs with extensive codebases. We also employ it for runtime verification of dynamic linking and pointer operations in C++ programs. The integration of compile-time verification, dimensional analysis, orientational analysis, and advanced type system enhances the robustness and accuracy of scientific applications, CPS, and IoT C/C++ programs. By leveraging these approaches, we ensure precise calculations and prevent errors related to measurement units and orientations, resulting in substantial improvements in reliability and accuracy.
MALDI-TOF MS KPC Direct Detection from Patients’ Positive Blood Culture Bottles, Short-term Cultures and Colonies at the Hospital
Authors: Costa Agustina , Figueroa-Espinosa Roque Arnulfo , Martínez Jerson Andrés , Fernández-Canigia Liliana , Maldonado María Ivana , Bergese Silvina , Schneider Ana , Vay Carlos , Rodriguez Carlos Hernán , Nastro Marcela , Gutkind Gabriel Osvaldo , Di Conza José Alejandro
Published: June 2023

Carbapenemase resistance in Enterobacterales is a global public health problem and rapid and effective methods to detect resistance mechanisms are needed urgently. Our aim was to evaluate the performance of a MALDI-TOF MS based KPC detection protocol from patients’ positive blood cultures, short-term cultures and colonies at health care settings. Bacterial identification and KPC detection were achieved after protein extraction with organic solvents and target spot loading with suitable organic matrices. Confirmation of KPC production was performed by susceptibility tests, blaKPC amplification by PCR and sequencing. KPC direct detection (KPC-peak at approximately 28.681 Da) from patients’ positive blood cultures, short-term cultures and colonies, once bacterial identification was achieved, showed an overall sensibility and specificity of 100% (CI95: [95%,100%] and CI95: [99%, 100%], respectively). Concordance between hospital routine bacterial identification protocol and identification with this new methodology from the same extract used for KPC detection was ≥92%. This study represents the pioneering effort to directly detect KPC using MALD-TOF MS technology, conducted on patient-derived samples obtained at the hospitals for validation purposes, in a multi-resistance global context that requires concrete actions to preserve available therapeutic options and reduce the spread of antibiotic resistance markers.
Development of a Liquid-Liquid Extraction Method to Study the Temporal Production of D-series Resolvins by Head Kidney Cells from Atlantic Salmon (Salmon salar) Exposed to Docosahexaenoic Acid
Authors: Araujo Pedro , Iqbal Sarah , Arnø Aleksander , Espe Marit , Holen Elisabeth
Published: June 2023

A simple and rapid method for the extraction of D-series resolvins (RvD1, RvD2, RvD3, RvD4, RvD5) released into Leibovitz's L-15 complete medium by head kidney cells from Atlantic salmon and further liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry determination is proposed. A three-level factorial design was proposed to select the optimal concentrations of internal standards that were used in the evaluation of the performance parameters such as linear range (0.1-50 ng/mL), limits of detection and quantification (0.05 and 0.1 ng/mL, respectively) and recovery values (98.99±0.00). The optimized method was used to determine the stimulated production of resolvins by head kidney cells exposed to docosahexaenoic acid, and the results indicated that it is possible that the production was controlled by circadian responses.
Omicron Variant Reinfection Risk Among Individuals with Previous SARS-CoV-2 Infections within One Year in Shanghai, China: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Ye Chuchu , Zhang Anran , Zhang Ge , Xin Hualei , Wu Kang , Li Zhongjie , Jia Yilin , Hao Lipeng , Xue Caoyi , Wang Yuanping , Xu Hongmei , Zhou Yixin , Zhu Weiping
Published: June 2023

Reinfection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants due to immune escape challenges the global response to the pandemic. We estimated the Omicron reinfection prevalence among people who had previous SARS-CoV-2 infections in Shanghai, China. We conducted a telephone survey in December 2022 for those who were previously infected with Omicron between March and May 2022. Information on demographics, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) testing, and vaccination history was collected. The overall and subgroup reinfection rates were estimated and compared. Among the 1981 respondents who were infected between March and May 2022, 260 had positive nucleic acid or rapid antigen tests in December 2022, with an estimated reinfection rate of 13.1% (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 11.6-14.6). The reinfection rate for those who had a booster vaccination was 11.4% (95% CI: 9.2-13.7), which was significantly lower than that for those with an incomplete vaccination series (15.2%, 95% CI: 12.3-18.1) (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.579; 95% CI: 0.412–0.813). Reinfection with the Omicron variant was lower among individuals with previous SARS-CoV-2 infection and had completed a booster vaccination, suggesting that hybrid immunity can offer better protection against reinfection with Omicron sublineages.
Rlc Electrical Modelling of Black Hole and Early Universe. Generalization of Boltzmann’s Constant in Curved Space-Time
Authors: Flores Hector Gerardo
Published: June 2023

Here we mathematically model black holes and the early universe following dynamics similar to RLC electrical models, focusing on their similarities at the singularity. We use this mathematically modelling to hypothesize the evolution of an expanding universe as the result of a black hole collapse followed by its evaporation. Or model consists of several steps defined by: (1) the formation of a black hole following general relativity equations; (2) growth of the black hole modelled as a resistance-capacitance-like electrical circuit; (3) expansion of space-time following the disintegration of the black hole, modelled by RLC-like dynamics.
Camera-Based Respiration Monitoring of Unconstrained Rodents
Authors: Breuer Lukas , Mösch Lucas , Kunczik Janosch , Buchecker Verena , Potschka Heidrun , Czaplik Michael , Pereira Carina Barbosa
Published: June 2023

Animal research has always been crucial for various medical and scientific breakthroughs, providing information on disease mechanisms, genetic predisposition to diseases, and pharmacological treatment. However, the use of animals in medical research is a source of great controversy and ongoing debate in modern science. To ensure a high level of bioethics, new guidelines have been adopted to replace animal testing wherever possible, reduce the number of animals per experiment, and refine procedures to minimize stress and pain. Supporting these guidelines, this article proposes a novel approach for unobtrusive, continuous, and automated monitoring of the respiratory rate of laboratory rats. It uses the cyclical expansion and contraction of the rats’ thorax/abdominal region to determine this physiological parameter. In contrast to previous work, the focus is on unconstrained animals, which requires the algorithms to be especially robust to motion artifacts. To test the feasibility of the proposed approach, video material of multiple rats was recorded and evaluated. High agreement was obtained between RGB-imaging and the reference method (respiratory rate derived from electrocardiography), which was reflected in a relative error of 5.46%. The current work shows that camera-based technologies are promising and relevant alternatives for monitoring the respiratory rate of unconstrained rats, contributing to the development of new alternatives for continuous and objective assessment of animal welfare and hereby guiding the way to modern and bioethical research.
N-(diisopropylphosphanyl)benzamide
Authors: Alcaide María M. , Garrido Daniel García , Álvarez Eleuterio , Peloso Riccardo
Published: June 2023

N-(diisopropylphosphanyl)benzamide, PhC(O)NHPiPr2, has been synthesized in good yield following two alternative procedures that employ benzamide as the starting material. The first one is a two-step preparation, in which N-(trimetilsilyl)benzamide is reacted with PiPr2Cl, to give the title compound in good yield, whereas the second one is a straightforward synthesis which converts benzamide into N-(diisopropylphosphanyl)benzamide by reaction with PiPr2Cl in the presence of N,N-dimethylpyridin-4-amine (DMAP) and triethylamine. NMR spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analyses have been performed to characterize the new compound and elucidate its molecular structure in the solid state. N-(diisopropylphosphanyl)benzamide adds to the limited family of amido-substituted phosphines, RC(O)NHPR’2, which can be classified as bidentate hybrid P,O-ligands, both in their neutral and anionic forms, the latter achievable by deprotonation of the NH group.
Genetic Diversity and Population Structure of Bursaphelenchus xylophilus in Central China based on SNP Markers
Authors: Yang Aixia , Ding Xiaolei , Feng Yuan , Chen Tingting , Ye Jianren
Published: June 2023

Hubei, Hunan and Henan Provinces are located in Central China, a region with extensive transport networks and trade. Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, the causative agent of pine wilt disease, is spreads mainly through human activities. In order to further understand the genetic structure of PWN in Central China, we studied the genetic information of PWN populations in this region and compared the genetic relationship with strains from Guangdong and Jiangsu provinces. We found that the HB (Hubei) 15, HEN (Henan) 20, HN (Hunan) 07, HN08 and HN10 had significantly more SNPs and homozygotes than other strains from Central China, and their most frequent mutant genotypes also differed from other strains. The clustering results indicated that HB15, HEN 20, HN07, HN08 and HN10 were genetically distinct from other strains and closely related to Guangdong strains. We also observed significant genetic variation among strains in Henan province, suggesting that some of them might have different transmission sources than those from Hubei and Hunan provinces. The results provide a basis for tracing the origin and spread of PWD in China.
"An Initial Investigation into the Interrelation of Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS), Feline Coronavirus (FCoV), and Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) in Cats"
Authors: Dokuzeylül Banu , İzmirli Semih , Telci Deniz Zeynep , Ayaş Gülce , Pugliese Michela , Or Mehmet Erman
Published: June 2023

Abstract: Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is a clinical diagnosis based on abnormalities in patients' vital signs and white blood cell count. Neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is used as an easily accessible parameter to assess the patient's inflammatory status and stress. There are some studies showing that NLR affected by the inflammatory response is a criterion to support the diagnosis of SIRS. In this study, it was aimed to compare the interrelation between SIRS (+) and SIRS (-) groups in patients with high positive feline coronavirus (FCoV) in the light of NLR. Based on the anamneses, physical examination findings, laboratory findings, enzyme immunoassay antibody test kit titer were included in the sick groups. These patients were further categorized based on the presence of SIRS symptoms, vital signs and laboratory findings. The NLR as diagnostic marker demonstrated to differ between high antibody titer FCoV positive and healthy cats. However the diagnostic significance of NLR remains questionable between the high antibody titer FCoV positive cats with SIRS (+) and SIRS (-). As a result of our study NLR can be used as a blood parameter like albumin/globulin ratio and elevated total bilirubin in cats with high FCoV antibody titer and high probability of developing FIP.
The Integral Role of Diet including Natural Products in Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Gunes-Bayir Ayse , Mendes Beyza , Dadak Agnes
Published: June 2023

Genetic and environmental factors including lifestyle are thought to play an important role in the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). There is evidence that diet can enhance the inflammatory response in genetically predisposed individuals. On the other hand, certain types of diets are thought to alleviate RA symptoms due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Also, natural compounds with potential effectiveness in RA management belong to different chemical classes such as flavonoids, polyphenols, carotenoids, and alkaloids with their antioxidant characteristics. In this paper, the nutritional approaches to prevent or extenuate the disease progress were examined in the light of current literature. Mediterranean and vegan diets equally have been shown to exhibit positive effects on RA as the consumption of dietary fiber, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds from fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and seeds are high. Whereas Mediterranean diet additionally includes beneficial nutrients of animal origin such as omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids from fish and seafood, patients on vegan diet need to be monitored closely for intake of all critical nutrients. Certain calorie restrictions and intermittent fasting diets have been shown to benefit RA patients although there is an obvious need for further studies to establish solid evidence-based recommendations and guidelines. The research data available strongly suggest that dietary approaches may help delay the onset of RA and/or improve symptoms and thus nutrition should be routinely addressed to facilitate management of the disease.
Effects of Internet Addiction on College Students' Cognition, Mood, and Physical Activity Level. A Correlational Observational Study
Authors: Mehndiratta Kanika , Sheereen Fauzia J. , Ali Taimul , Khan Abdur R , Alghadir Ahmad H. , Iqbal Amir , Ahmad Fuzail , Alshehri Mohammed M. , Shaphe Mohammad Abu Abu
Published: June 2023

Background: The Internet has become an essential component of college students' lives, serving as a tool for academic pursuits, daily activities, and social interactions with individuals and the global community. Productive internet use is associated with student success, while pathological internet use can negatively impact psychosocial performance. This study aimed to assess the impact of internet addiction on the cognitive function, mood, and physical activity of college students.
Study design: The study was based on a correlational observational study design.
Settings: The study’s participants were taken using a convenience sampling method from the Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies campus, Faridabad, Haryana, having a student strength of more than two thousand.
Methods: With a response rate of 69.93%, one hundred male and female college students who could understand the self-administered questionnaires and obtained the internet addiction test (IAT) scores equal to or above twenty participated (aged 18-25 years) in this study. The participants were assessed for the study’s outcomes, such as the internet addiction (viz. average, moderate, and excessive) cognition, mood, and physical activity level, using an internet addiction test questionnaire (IATQ), cognitive failure questionnaire (CFQ), the profile of mood state questionnaire (POMS), and international physical activity questionnaire (IPAQ), respectively. A categorical analysis with mean scores was carried out for all the outcomes. The correlation between internet dependency and cognitive abilities, emotional state, and levels of physical activity among the participants was ascertained using Pearson's correlation coefficient. The threshold of significance was set to 95%, meaning any p-value < 0.05 was considered significant.
Results: The study’s outcome variable- internet addiction, revealed a moderate positive correlation with cognition (r=0.793; p=0.001) and mood (r=0.703; p=012), while a moderate negative correlation with physical activity (r=-0.681; p=003).
Conclusion: The study concluded that internet addiction is positively linked to cognition and mood disruption; however, it negatively affects physical activities among college students. An awareness program should be executed on “Internet addiction and its effects on college students’ Cognition, Mood, and Physical Activity” and advocating Internet use in a limited manner for getting aroused, feeling better, and avoiding physical inactivity.
In situ Entrapment of Catalase within Macroporous Cryogel Matrix for Ethanol Oxidation: Flow-through Mode versus Batch Reactor
Authors: Akbayeva Dina N. , Smagulova Indira A. , Maksotova Kuralay S. , Tasbolatova Nurly A. , Bakirova Botagoz S. , Tatykhanova Gulnur S. , Shakhvorostov Alexey V. , Kudaibergenov Sarkyt E.
Published: June 2023

In this article, the biocatalytic oxidation of ethanol into acetaldehyde was studied using a catalase entrapped within monolithic polyampholyte cryogel, p(APTAC-co-AMPS), derived from an anionic monomer, 2-acrylamido-2-methyl-1-propanesulfonic acid sodium salt (AMPS), and a cationic monomer, (3-acrylamidopropyl) trimethylammonium chloride (APTAC) as catalyst. Macroporous polyampholyte cryogels containing various amounts of catalase were synthesized in situ under cryo-polymerization conditions at a molar ratio of monomers [APTAC]:[AMPS] = 75:25 mol.% in the presence of 10 mol.% cross-linking agent, N,N-methylenebisacrylamide (MBAA). The conversion of ethanol into acetaldehyde in good-to-high yields was observed in flow-through and batch type reactors under optimal conditions: at T = 10-20 C, pH = 7.1, [C2H5OH]:[H2O2] = 50:50 vol.%. According to SEM image the pore sizes of p(AMPS-co-APTAC) cryogel vary from 15 to 55 μm. The catalytic activity of catalase entrapped within monolithic polyampholyte cryogel in the conversion of ethanol into acetaldehyde was evaluated through the determination of such kinetic parameters as Michaelis constant (Km), the maximum enzymatic rate (Vmax), activation energy (Ea), turnover number (TON) and turnover frequency (TOF). The catalase encapsulated within monolithic polyampholyte cryogel exhibits a high conversion of ethanol into acetaldehyde. The advantages and disadvantages of flow-through and batch type reactors were highlighted.
The Hypocholesterolemic Potential of the Edible Algae Fucus Vesiculosus: Proteomic and Quantitative PCR Analysis
Authors: André Rebeca , Pacheco Rita , Alves Ana Catarina , Santos Hugo M. , Bourbon Mafalda , Serralheiro Maria-Luísa
Published: June 2023

A brown seaweed consumed worldwide, Fucus vesiculosus, has been used to prevent atherosclerosis and hypercholesterolemia, among other uses, however, the mechanisms of action that lead to these effects are not yet fully understood. An F. vesiculosus aqueous extract, prepared as a soup was characterized as rich in sev-eral bioactive compounds, mainly phlorotannin and peptides. This work aims to study the in vitro effect of this extract on the expression of different proteins involved in the synthesis and transport of cholesterol in HepG2 cells, though a proteomic analysis, western blot and qRT-PCR. The results demonstrated that, in liver cells, the extract decreases the expression of 4 proteins involved in cholesterol biosynthesis process and also decrease the expression of two important transporters proteins of cholesterol, NPC1L1 and ABCG5, as well as decrease the NPC1L1 mRNA levels. Our study demonstrates some mechanisms of action of bioactive com-pounds from F. vesiculosus that may explain its previously reported hypocholesterolemic effect.
Exploring the Landscape of Digital Health in Sport Science: A Bibliometric Analysis of Global Research Trends and Future Directions (2010-2023)
Authors: Wang Yida , Liu Jun , Wang Xiaoling , Wang Liyan
Published: June 2023

Digital health has gained widespread adoption across various disciplines. Within the field of sport science, there is growing interest in digital health, leading to a surge in research activities. The objective of this study is to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric and visualization analysis, tracing the evolutionary trajectory, identifying research hotspots, and uncovering emerging trends in digital health within the domain of sport science. By doing so, this research aims to offer scholars a systematic and comprehensive understanding of the dynamic landscape in this field. To achieve this, the Web of Science core collection was chosen as the primary database. A thorough literature search was performed, focusing on digital health and sport science, resulting in the screening of 1870 English-language documents. The findings revealed a consistent upward growth trend in the annual publication count from 2010 to 2023. Notably, the United States, specifically the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania System of Higher Education, and John B. Cronin, emerged as the most prolific contributors in terms of publications. Collaborative efforts among countries, institutions, and authors were also observed. The research hotspots identified encompassed several areas, including the evaluation of digital health technologies' effectiveness, exploration of the relationship between digital health technologies and physical activity/exercise performance, and the use of digital health technologies in assessing and rehabilitating sports injuries. Among the prominent digital health technologies employed in these studies were virtual reality, social media, and wearable devices. The predominant types of studies utilized meta-analysis, randomized controlled trials, and cross-sectional studies. Looking towards the future, the study identified several key research trends. These include the exploration of telemedicine, artificial intelligence-based machine learning, therapeutic interventions, and physical therapy within the realm of digital health. These emerging areas signify promising directions for future investigation and development in the field of digital health within sport science.