bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interplay between Pitx2 and Pax7 temporally governs specification of extraocular muscle stem cells
Authors: Kuriki Mao , Korb Amaury , Comai Glenda , Tajbakhsh Shahragim
Published: June 2024

Gene regulatory networks that act upstream of skeletal muscle fate determinants are distinct in different anatomical locations. Despite recent efforts, a clear understanding of the cascade of events underlying the emergence and maintenance of the stem cell pool in specific muscle groups remains unresolved and debated. Here, we invalidated Pitx2 with multiple Cre-driver mice prenatally, postnatally, and during lineage progression. We showed that this gene becomes progressively dispensable for specification and maintenance of the muscle stem (MuSC) cell pool in extraocular muscles (EOMs) despite being, together with Myf5, a major upstream regulator during early development. Moreover, constitutive inactivation of Pax7 postnatally led to a greater loss of MuSCs in the EOMs compared to the limb. Thus, we propose a relay between Pitx2, Myf5 and Pax7 for EOM stem cell maintenance. We demonstrate also that MuSCs in the EOMs adopt a quiescent state earlier that those in limb muscles and do not spontaneously proliferate in the adult, yet EOMs have a significantly higher content of Pax7+ MuSCs per area pre- and post-natally. Finally, while limb MuSCs proliferate in the mdx mouse model for Duchenne muscular dystrophy, significantly less MuSCs were present in the EOMs of the mdx mouse model compared to controls, and they were not proliferative. Overall, our study provides a comprehensive in vivo characterisation of MuSC heterogeneity along the body axis and brings further insights into the unusual sparing of EOMs during muscular dystrophy.
Acceptance and commitment therapy for patients with chronic pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis on psychological outcomes and quality of life
Authors: Ye Lu , Li Yunhua , Deng Qingchuan , Zhao Xin , Zhong Lili , Yang Li
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To assess the efficacy of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for patients with chronic pain.

Materials and methods

The research conducted a systematic search of the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases following the PRISMA guidelines. The retrieval time limit was from the establishment of the database to October 2023. A meta-analysis was carried out for the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria by using RevMan 5.3.

Results

Twenty-one RCTs were included. At post-treatment, a significant medium effect size (ES) was found in measuring pain interference, functional impairment, pain acceptance, psychological inflexibility, and depression; Pain intensity, anxiety, and quality of life (QOL) had a small ES. At three months post-treatment, a large ES was found in measuring functional impairment, and a medium ES was found in the other indicators.

Conclusion

The researchers provided evidence for the effectiveness of ACT as an intervention for patients with chronic pain, which can be applied by clinicians or nurses in practice. Future research should explore the applicability of ACT to different pain conditions and modalities.

Implications for nursing

Post-treatment data highlight the efficacy of ACT in moderating pain-related outcomes. Clinical nurses are encouraged to incorporate ACT into routine patient education and interventions, including promoting pain acceptance, promoting mindfulness practices, and using cognitive stress reduction techniques. Standardized follow-up after an ACT intervention for patients with chronic pain is critical, including regular assessment, feedback, and realignment of treatment strategies. Overall, ACT became an important tool for nurses to improve the lives of patients with chronic pain.
Assessing the locomotor demands of international men’s and women’s rugby sevens match-play according to passage of play
Authors: Hills Samuel P. , Izri Erwan , Howells Daniel , Lonergan Ben , Kilduff Liam P. , Waldron Mark
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of discrete passages of play on locomotor demands of international men’s and women’s rugby sevens matches and their relationship with winning or losing. Thirteen men’s and thirteen women’s international rugby sevens players wore 10 Hz Global Positioning Systems during twelve Tokyo Olympic games matches (966 observations; 507 for men, 459 for women). Discrete ball-in-play periods were categorised as: ‘Single-phase defence’, ‘single-phase attack’, ‘multi-phase defence’, ‘multi-phase attack’, ‘multi-phase defence to attack’, or ‘multi-phase attack to defence’. Relative total distance, alongside high-speed (>5.0 m∙s-1), acceleration (>3 m∙s-2), and deceleration (>3 m∙s-2) distances were recorded for each passage. Separately for men and women, linear mixed models examined the effect of passage type and match outcome (win or loss) on locomotor demands, whilst controlling for opposition ranking. In men, relative total distance ranged from 137 m∙min-1 to 174 m∙min-1 for ‘multi-phase defence to attack’ and ‘multi-phase attack’, respectively. In women, ‘multi-phase attack’ elicited the lowest relative total distance (118 m∙min-1), whereas the greatest values (186 m∙min-1) were recorded for ‘single-phase defence’. For men, there were significant interactions between match outcome and passage type for relative total (p<0.001) and high-speed (p = 0.006) distance. During ‘multi-phase attack’, relative total distance was greater for wins versus losses (174 vs 138 m.min-1, p = 0.024). However, for ‘single-phase defence’, relative total distance was lower for wins (128 vs 164 m.min-1, p<0.001). For women, there were significant interactions between match outcome and passage type for relative total (p = 0.036), high-speed (p = 0.003), and deceleration (p = 0.015) distances. Locomotor responses were influenced by passage type and match result for men and women. Knowing the demands of each passage type may inform training drills targeted at developing match-play-specific physical, technical, and tactical adaptations. Understanding how passages differ between matches won and lost could also inform team technical/tactical preparation including selection.
Genetic variability of the endangered fish lake minnow (Eupallasella percnurus) in populations newly established by translocation and those existing long term in Poland
Authors: Wolnicki Jacek , Kaczmarczyk Dariusz , Sikorska Justyna , Kamiński Rafał , Osińska Adriana , Zawrotna Natalia
Published: June 2024

The lake minnow Eupallasella percnurus is a small leuciscid fish. In Poland, this species has been in a continuous decline since the mid-20th century and is presently considered as a extremely endangered. According to Polish law, E. percnurus is a strictly protected species that requires active conservation measures. In Poland, one the most common and effective measure of active protection E. percnurus is initiation of new populations. For this purpose, in 2004–2012, juvenile individuals originating from aquaculture conditions were translocated to group of isolated water bodies not inhabited by this species. The juveniles were offspring of parental fish belonging to the same local population, which is extinct at present. Five of those attempts were successful. The aim of the present study was to assess the genetic variation in a group new populations and compare genetic variation indicators with 13 old populations that had existed for decades. The polymorphism of 13 microsatellite markers was investigated, significance of differences in the genetic variation indicators between the groups were tested using a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The mean values of all summary statistics under study, i.e. observed heterozygosity, expected heterozygosity and the total number of alleles, were higher in the group of new populations compared to almost all old ones. A similar dependence was found for Garza—Williamson M values, where the mean for the group of new populations was higher than in almost all old populations. Our results indicate that all recently established E. percnurus populations have not yet experienced any extensive founder effects or bottlenecks. They have preserved a large part of the genetic variability typical of their maternal population, which might also have been relatively high. This feature of new populations, may give them a relatively high ability to adapt to changing environments in the future.
Antiviral activity of intracellular nanobodies targeting the influenza virus RNA-polymerase core
Authors: Bessonne Mélissa , Morel Jessica , Nevers Quentin , Da Costa Bruno , Ballandras-Colas Allison , Chenavier Florian , Grange Magali , Roussel Alain , Crépin Thibaut , Delmas Bernard
Published: June 2024

Influenza viruses transcribe and replicate their genome in the nucleus of the infected cells, two functions that are supported by the viral RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase (FluPol). FluPol displays structural flexibility related to distinct functional states, from an inactive form to conformations competent for replication and transcription. FluPol machinery is constituted by a structurally-invariant core comprising the PB1 subunit stabilized with PA and PB2 domains, whereas the PA endonuclease and PB2 C-domains can pack in different configurations around the core. To get insights into the functioning of FluPol, we selected single-domain nanobodies (VHHs) specific of the influenza A FluPol core. When expressed intracellularly, some of them exhibited inhibitory activity on type A FluPol, but not on the type B one. The most potent VHH (VHH16) binds PA and the PA-PB1 dimer with an affinity below the nanomolar range. Ectopic intracellular expression of VHH16 in virus permissive cells blocks multiplication of different influenza A subtypes, even when induced at late times post-infection. VHH16 was found to interfere with the transport of the PA-PB1 dimer to the nucleus, without affecting its handling by the importin β RanBP5 and subsequent steps in FluPol assembly. Using FluPol mutants selected after passaging in VHH16-expressing cells, we identified the VHH16 binding site at the interface formed by PA residues with the N-terminus of PB1, overlapping or close to binding sites of two host proteins, ANP32A and RNA-polymerase II RPB1 subunit which are critical for virus replication and transcription, respectively. These data suggest that the VHH16 neutralization is likely due to several activities, altering the import of the PA-PB1 dimer into the nucleus as well as inhibiting specifically virus transcription and replication. Thus, the VHH16 binding site represents a new Achilles’ heel for FluPol and as such, a potential target for antiviral development.
Pacific Presences: Volume 1: Oceanic Art and European Museums, Lucie Carreau, Alison Clark, Alana Jelinek, Erna Lilje and Nicholas Thomas (eds) (2018)
Authors: Mückler Hermann
Published: June 2024

Review of: Pacific Presences: Volume 1: Oceanic Art and European Museums, Lucie Carreau, Alison Clark, Alana Jelinek, Erna Lilje and Nicholas Thomas (eds) (2018)

Leiden: Sidestone Press, 253 pp.,

ISBN 978 9 08890 589 6 (pbk), €45

Pacific Presences: Volume 2: Oceanic Art and European Museums, Lucie Carreau, Alison Clark, Alana Jelinek, Erna Lilje and Nicholas Thomas (eds) (2018)

Leiden: Sidestone Press, 511 pp.,

ISBN 978 9 08890 626 8 (pbk), €85
Understanding Intercultural Communication as a Condition for Sustainable Development
Authors: Aleksandrova Olena , Kolinko Marina , Ishchuk Alla , Kozlovets Mykola , Petryshyn Halyna , Hotsalyuk Alla , Taran Ganna
Published: June 2024

Intercultural communication plays a significant role in promoting the principles of sustainable development by fostering global interactions, resolving conflicts, and facilitating cultural exchange. In this study, diverse aspects of intercultural communication are investigated, with the highlight of its significance in shaping fresh social dynamics across various cultural landscapes. The phenomenon of ‘communicative space’ is depicted as a vibrant arena where individuals from different cultures share their perspectives, influencing both the potential for interaction and the obstacles to cross-cultural understanding. Language, as the socio-cultural space of speech activity, plays a central role in facilitating communication, alongside strategic communication practices tailored to intercultural contexts. Additionally, the study highlights the significance of sustainable development goals in guiding the formulation of practical communication models, with an emphasis on preserving cultural diversity as a key aspect. Insights from a survey examining the relationship between sustainable values and interpersonal communication are integrated, offering practical implications for promoting effective intercultural dialogue. In conclusion, this research contributes theoretical insights and pragmatic strategies to advance intercultural communication for sustainable development, underscoring the imperative of cultural diversity preservation on a global scale. 
Keywords: intercultural communication, interpersonal communication, sustainable development, cultural context, communicative space, language strategies, sustainable value perception, global communication dynamics
Appropriate Conservation Machinery for Mungbean Cultivation in the Southern Region of Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain M. A. , Mottalib M. A. , Hossain M. I. , Amin M. N. , Alam M. M. , Saha C. K.
Published: June 2024

The study was conducted at Mundopasha, Wazirpur, Barisal during Rabi season of 2017 for testing, adoption and popularization of different conservation machinery (CA) such as zero till planter (ZT), strip till planter (ST), bed planter (BP) and power tiller operated seeder (PTOS) along with conventional tilling and of sowing method for planting of mungbean (BARI Mung-6). The soil type was loamy-sand with bulk density 1.41 g/cc. The effective field capacities of ZT, ST, BP, PTOS and power tiller were found to be 0.104, 0.109, 0.084, 0.109, and 0.074 ha/h, respectively. The field efficiency of ZT, ST, BP, PTOS and power tiller were estimated as 74.68, 76.47, 75.84, 78.16 and 71.52%, respectively. Significantly the highest mungbean grain yields were found from ZT and ST planted plots than those of other plots. Significantly the lowest grain yield was obtained from conventional tillage and broadcasting method. The highest benefit cost ratio (BCR) was obtained from ST planted (2.60) and zero till planted (2.40) mungbean followed by PTOS (2.20), conventional tillage cum broadcasting (1.88) and bed planting (1.82) methods. The lowest BCR was found from traditional tillage and manual line sowing method (1.61) of mungbean. CA planting system saved about 50% planting cost and reduced about 76% carbon dioxide emission. Based on the fuel consumption, grain yield and BCR, ZT planter and the strip till planter may be recommended in Barisal region for cultivation of mungbean.
Distal Ileitis Caused by Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma in an Elderly Patient From Honduras
Authors: Newman Jacob , Hong Alison , Zhang Jennie , Dabash Abdelrahman , Gehring James , Lynn Lei , Borum Marie , Bhattacharya Sumona
Published: June 2024

Primary gastrointestinal non-Hodgkin lymphoma, while rare, most often presents as diffuse large B-cell lymphoma located in the stomach or ileocecal region. Presenting symptoms include abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, weight loss, or obstructive symptoms. Imaging can reveal ileitis or obstruction. We report a case of a man from Honduras with latent tuberculosis and chronic hepatitis B who presented with features of Crohn's disease through clinical, radiologic, and endoscopic findings but was ultimately diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma by histology. We emphasize the importance of maintaining a broad differential for ileitis and the importance of histologic sampling when evaluating ileitis.
PREPARASI DAN MANAGEMEN BENCANA PENYULUHAN DI BANARAN, KABUPATEN BOYOLALI
Authors: Wilujeng Sri Rahayu , Suryaningsih Sukarni
Published: June 2024

ABSTRAKBencana adalah suatu peristiwa yang sering terjadi. Bencana pada dasarnya suatu kejadian yang menimbulkan kerugian baik harta, nyawa, maupun luka. Indonesia, negara yang berpotensi besar terkena bencana alam. Bencana dalam skala besar mencakup bencana alam,bencana sosial, kecelakaan yang menimpa masyarakat atau suatu komunitas. Dalam skala kecil dalam lingkup keluarga, bencana berarti suatu kecelakaan atau peristiwa yang membahayakan manusia. Bencana atau kecelakaan sering tidak dapat diprediksi. Pengetahuan yang memadai tentang bencana atau kecelakaan baik menyangkut persiapan atau antisipasi dan penanganan atau managemensangat dibutuhkan. Metode yang digunakan adalah ceramah, tanya jawab, simulasi. Hasil yang dicapai adalah adanya pengetahuan dan ketrampilan awal menyangkut persiapan dan penangan bencana dan musibah dalam tingkat keluargaKata Kunci: Preparasi , Managemen, Bencana  ABSTRACTDisaster is an event that occurs frequently. A disaster is basically an event that causes loss of property, life or injury. Indonesia, a country with great potential for natural disasters. Disasters on a large scale include natural disasters, social disasters, accidents that befall society or a community. On a small scale within the family sphere, disaster means an accident or event that endangers humanity. Disasters or accidents are often unpredictable. Adequate knowledge about disasters or accidents regarding preparation or anticipation and handling or management is very necessary. The methods used are lectures, questions and answers, simulations. The results achieved are initial knowledge and skills regarding preparation and handling of disasters and disasters at the family levelKey Words: Preparation, Management, Disaster
The Relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility of Hotels and Brand Equity in Ho Chi Minh City, the Mediating Role Of Customers
Authors: Thanh Phung Tuan , Hac Le Dinh , Dat Tran Van
Published: June 2024

The impact of Corporate Social Responsibility on Brand Equity has been clearly demonstrated in both theory and practice; however, there is still no consensus on which factors influence this impact. This study aims to construct a model focusing on understanding the impact of CSR on Brand Equity through Customer Commitment. A survey was conducted with 500 customers at 4-star and 5-star hotels in Ho Chi Minh City, using the PLS-SEM analysis tool. The research results indicate a direct impact between Corporate Social Responsibility and Brand Equity, while also demonstrating the positive mediating relationship of Customer Commitment.
Dynamics towards Sustainable Food Security in Arid and Semi-Arid Land (ASAL) Parts of Oromia Regional State in Ethiopia
Authors: Mossissa Almaz Taffesse , Mulongo Leonard Simiyu , Mining Pacifica
Published: June 2024

The main question policymakers as well as researchers are facing is ascertaining an appropriate way for sustainable food security in most ASAL parts of Africa. The efficacy of interventions is often hindered by lack of comprehensive understanding of local contexts and the socioeconomic landscape such as insufficient infrastructure and an inequitable distribution of resources that further complicate efforts, exacerbating food insecurity. The paper is based on a study undertaken in the Oromia region of Ethiopia, whose main objective was to assess the dynamics towards sustainable food security in the study area. The study used mixed method research approach and convergent research design. Using multistage and systematic random sampling techniques, a sample size of 397 households was generated from the 58,632 target household population of the study area. Data was collected using questionnaires, focus group discussions, and structured interviews. Results from regression analysis showed that there was a statistically significant negative correlation between restricted mobility (P-value=.000), land degradation (P-value=.031), biodiversity loss (P-value=.001), water shortage (P-value=.027), conflict (P-value=.000), and poor market facilities (P-value=.022) and household food production (at P-value <0.05). The study concludes that sustainable food security can be achieved by empowering the people through enhancing access to land resources and improving their market integration. It is, therefore, been recommended that coordinated efforts by national, regional, and local government bodies be undertaken to enhance food security sustainability by strengthening essential services such as market networks, raising awareness, and implementing policies that facilitate communities’ access to and sustainable utilization of land resources.
Construction and Validation of An Audiovisual Program on Body Education
Authors: Lessa Risia Carine Maciel Meira Schwartz , Bacha Elizabeth , Wanderley Flávia Accioly Canuto
Published: June 2024

To build and validate an audiovisual program as a resource to encourage body education.  Study with a qualitative and quantitative methodological approach. The content was developed with a view to encouraging people who work predominantly seated to seek new well-being strategies based on (self-)knowledge of the body. For the development of the program, the contents were divided into scripts for 11 videos. All materials were built based on the CTM3 Method, a method for structuring educational products. Validation was carried out with the contribution of ten reviewers, five specialists and five laypersons. They evaluated the videos through a form composed of six questions. The criteria used for validation were a) Agreement Index (simple majority) and Content Validity Index (CVI ≥ 0.8). The body education program was validated with AI equal to or greater than 80% and CVI equal to or greater than 0.8. The content of the audiovisual program was considered valid for stimulating a culture of body education.
The Rise and Resilience of Telegram: An Examination of its Origins, Current Positioning, and Future Prospects in the Context of Russian Realities
Authors: Avetisyan Mane
Published: June 2024

In recent years, Telegram has emerged as a significant global phenomenon, driven by its innovative approach and commitment to freedom of speech. Founded by Pavel Durov following his contentious departure as CEO of VKontakte, Telegram represents a paradigm shift in messaging platforms, characterized by its predominantly open-source nature, global distribution, and reliance on cloud-based infrastructure. This architectural choice has endowed Telegram with remarkable resilience against censorship attempts, particularly those instigated by the Russian government. This paper delves into the circumstances precipitating Telegram's inception, analyzing the strategic decisions and underlying motivations that shaped its development. Furthermore, it evaluates Telegram's current status within the Russian digital landscape, exploring its role as a bastion of free expression amidst increasing governmental scrutiny and control. Additionally, the paper examines the reactive measures employed by Russian authorities to regulate the internet, juxtaposing these efforts with Telegram's steadfast commitment to providing unfettered communication channels.
Physically active pregnancies: Insights from the placenta
Authors: Adamo Kristi B. , Goudreau Alexandra D. , Corson Abbey E. , MacDonald Meaghan L. , O'Rourke Nicholas , Tzaneva Velislava
Published: June 2024

Physical activity (PA) positively influences pregnancy, a critical period for health promotion, and affects placental structure and function in ways previously overlooked. Here, we summarize the current body of literature examining the association between PA, placenta biology, and physiology while also highlighting areas where gaps in knowledge exist. PA during pregnancy induces metabolic changes, influencing nutrient availability and transporter expression in the placenta. Hormones and cytokines secreted during PA contribute to health benefits, with intricate interactions in pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory markers. Extracellular vesicles and placental “‐omics” data suggest that gestational PA can shape placental biology, affecting gene expression, DNA methylation, metabolite profiles, and protein regulation. However, whether cytokines that respond to PA alter placental proteomic profiles during pregnancy remains to be elucidated. The limited research on placenta mitochondria of physically active gestational parents (gesP), has shown improvements in mitochondrial DNA and antioxidant capacity, but the relationship between PA, placental mitochondrial dynamics, and lipid metabolism remains unexplored. Additionally, PA influences the placenta‐immune microenvironment, angiogenesis, and may confer positive effects on neurodevelopment and mental health through placental changes, vascularization, and modulation of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor. Ongoing exploration is crucial for unraveling the multifaceted impact of PA on the intricate placental environment.
Novel results for two families of multivalued dominated mappings satisfying generalized nonlinear contractive inequalities and applications
Authors: Rasham Tahair , Mustafa Arjumand , Mukheimer Aiman , Nazam Muhammad , Shatanawi Wasfi
Published: June 2024

In this manuscript, we prove new extensions of Nashine, Wardowski, Feng-Liu, and Ćirić-type contractive inequalities using orbitally lower semi-continuous functions in an orbitally complete

b

b

-metric space. We accomplish new multivalued common fixed point results for two families of dominated set-valued mappings in an ordered complete orbitally

b

b

-metric space. Some new definitions and illustrative examples are given to validate our new results. To show the novelty of our results, applications are given to obtain the solution of nonlinear integral and fractional differential equations. Our results expand the hypothetical consequences of Nashine et al. (Feng–Liu-type fixed point result in orbital b-metric spaces and application to fractal integral equation, Nonlinear Anal. Model. Control. 26 (2021), no. 3, 522–533) and Rasham et al. (Common fixed point results for new Ciric-type rational multivalued-contraction with an application, J. Fixed Point Theory Appl. 20 (2018), no. 1, Paper No. 45).
Implementing the ESMO recommendations for the use of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) assays in routine clinical application/diagnostics
Authors: Gamisch Alexander , Mustafa Hans Georg , Haushofer Alexander , Mustafa-Korninger Maria-Elisabeth
Published: June 2024

Liquid biopsy (LB) represents an advanced, minimally invasive approach that elevates the precision of oncological decision-making by identifying tumor DNA in bodily fluids. However, despite numerous endorsements from international specialty societies and working groups, implementation of LB into routine care is lagging behind due to conceptual and methodological uncertainties. This concise mini review aims to help catalyzing the translation of LB into routine care by exploring key considerations for incorporating circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) analysis into clinical practice. Addressing eight pertinent questions from the perspective of a molecular oncology laboratory, this review synthesizes insights from the European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) recommendations and incorporates the latest findings from relevant literature, offering a comprehensive guide to the implementation of ctDNA assays.
Comprehensive pan-cancer investigation of carnosine dipeptidase 1 and its prospective prognostic significance in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Huang Xiao-Wen , Li Yan , Jiang Li-Na , Zhao Bo-Kang , Liu Yi-Si , Chen Chun , Zhao Dan , Zhang Xue-Li , Li Mei-Ling , Jiang Yi-Yun , Liu Shu-Hong , Zhu Li , Zhao Jing-Min
Published: June 2024

Carnosine dipeptidase 1 (CNDP1), an enzyme integral to the hydrolysis of dipeptides containing histidine, plays an indispensable role in myriad physiological processes, including hydrolysis of proteins, maturation of specific biochemical functionalities within proteins, tissue regeneration, and regulation of cell cycle. However, the implications of CNDP1 in oncogenesis and its prognostic value are not yet fully elucidated. Initially, we procured the GSE40367 dataset from the Gene Expression Omnibus and established a protein–protein interaction network. Thereafter, we conducted functional and pathway enrichment analyses utilizing GO, KEGG, and GSEA. Moreover, we undertook an association analysis concerning the expression of CNDP1 with immune infiltration, along with survival analysis across various cancers and specifically in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our study uncovered a total of 2,248 differentially expressed genes, with a down-regulation of CNDP1 in HCC and other cancers. Our explorations into the relationship between CNDP1 and immune infiltration disclosed a negative correlation between CNDP1 expression and the presence of immune cells in HCC. Survival analyses revealed that diminished expression of CNDP1 correlates with an adverse prognosis in HCC and several other types of cancer. These observations intimate that CNDP1 holds promise as a novel prognostic biomarker for both pan-cancer and HCC.
Goodman’s ‘About’: the Ryle Factor
Authors: Osorio-Kupferblum Naomi
Published: June 2024

Nelson Goodman’s paper ‘About’ (1961) was a milestone in aboutness theory. Although it has been much discussed, an interesting fact about it has so far been completely ignored: the important debt it owes to two papers it cites by Gilbert Ryle. With Ryle’s ‘About’ (1933) it shares much more than the title – it, too, offers a three-fold account of different ways a sentence can relate to a subject matter and a separate account for fictitious objects. More importantly, although Goodman’s approach is quite different, the inspiration for the crucial element in his account, ‘differential consequence’, may well have come from a parenthetical suggestion of entailment in Ryle’s ‘About’. The second essential tool Goodman uses, viz. compound predicates which incorporate the (fictitious) object, is also the crucial element in Ryle’s ‘Imaginary Objects’ (also 1933). Goodman turns them into a predicate schema for fictitious subject matters as well as for a nominalist version of his account.
FACILITATING ACTIVE AGEING: A SOCIAL WORK INTERVENTION WITH INSTITUTIONALISED OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Putran Laxmi , Kunder Mohan A , Choolayil Anoop C
Published: June 2024

Older adults in many developing nations move to care homes for reasons other than ill health, but the institutional routines, paired with the separation from families, may curtail their autonomy and choices, adversely affecting their active ageing prospects. This study introduced a novel social work intervention that targeted individual-level, personnel-level and institutional-level modifications to improve the active ageing prospects of institutionalised older adults. A total of 35 participants (16 males and 19 females) were recruited from seven care homes in Kerala, India. The active ageing status of the participants significantly improved after the intervention (137.77±45.1) compared to that before the intervention (128±44.2). The findings show that structural and personnel changes in the institution, combined with individual and family-level interventions, can improve the active ageing prospects of institutionalised older adults in developing nations, where institutionalisation is not always necessarily a consequence of ill health. Keywords: older adults, care homes, active ageing, play therapy, mental health education
WHAT MOTIVATES MOTHERS TO APPLY A POSITIVE PARENTING APPROACH? A QUALITATIVE STUDY
Authors: Bradley Lexi , Greeff Abraham Petrus
Published: June 2024

Few studies to date have explored the perceptions of parents about positive parenting in general, and none have examined parents’ motivation to apply a positive parenting approach. Consequently, the aim of this study was to explore what motivates parents to apply a positive parenting approach. Participants were recruited in South Africa by means of non-probability purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to gain the perspectives of sixteen mothers who identified themselves as positive parents. Participants responded to the following open-ended question: “What motivates you to apply a positive parenting approach?” After a thematic analysis, the following four categories (with themes and subthemes) emerged from the data: It is who I am, It just works, Gaining knowledge through learning and resources, and The importance of social support. The findings of the study may be utilised in interventions to encourage parents to adopt a positive parenting approach and may provide guidance on how to maintain these parenting skills to empower themselves and their children. Keywords: authoritative parenting, child-centred, mothers’ perspective, motivation, positive parenting
SOCIAL WORK, SOCIAL WELFARE, AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA: A POSTCOLONIAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Kurevakwesu Wilberforce
Published: June 2024

The lack of African social work literature and an overreliance on Western literature have led to calls for African scholars to produce rich social work texts to support Africa’s decolonisation agenda. In Social Work, Social Welfare, and Social Development in Nigeria: A Postcolonial Perspective, Mel Gray and Solomon Ahmadasun offer a key text on social work in Nigeria.
Rezultati arheološkog nadzora u Ulici Stratico u Zadru
Authors: Grgurić Srzentić Maja
Published: June 2024

U listopadu 2022. godine proveden je arheološki nadzor nad iskopom kanala za strujni i vodoopskrbni priključak zgrade stare Tehničke škole. Nadzor je obuhvatio ulice Stratico, Bartola Kašića i Šime Vitasovića. Ovim iskopom do kraja su istraženi već poznati kontrafora čime se dobila njihova puna dužina, a iskop je, čini se, zahvatio i dio petog, do sada nepoznatog kontrafora. Tijekom nadzora nad iskopom za vodoopskrbni priključak jugozapadno od zgrade naišlo se na ostatke kaldrme u dužini od 11 metara s prekidima zbog oštećenja. Vjerojatno je riječ o cesti izgrađenoj nakon rušenja bedema 1907. godine.
Pećina Vlakno na Dugom otoku
Authors: Vujević Dario , Parica Mate , Bodružić Mario
Published: June 2024

Rad donosi rezultate arheoloških istraživanja provedenih u pećini Vlakno na Dugom otoku tijekom 2022. godine. Pećina Vlakno smjestila se na središnjem dijelu Dugog otoka nasuprot otoka Rave. 40 m2 iskoristivog prostora, u kombinaciji s velikim ulazom okrenutim prema jugoistoku i izvorom vode u blizini pokazalo se kao izvrsno mjesto za boravak manjih zajednica tijekom kasnog paleolitika i ranog mezolitika.  Stratigrafskom sekvencom pećine Vlakno još od najdublje dosegnutih razina dominiraju slojevi s nalazima epigravetijenske kulture. Ovogodišnja kampanja usmjerena je na istraživanje onih koji se datiraju u razdoblja prije 17000 godina.
Prácticas de memoria en mujeres víctimas del conflicto armado en Boyacá-Colombia
Authors: Condiza Plazas William Ernesto , Ospina Enciso Andrés Felipe
Published: June 2024

Este artículo presenta narrativas y experiencias de mujeres que han sido víctimas del conflicto armado en el departamento de Boyacá, Colombia, y se han organizado alrededor de prácticas de memoria que dignifican el dolor y tramitan los hechos violentos en procura de reconocimiento público y acciones reparadoras de cara al Estado y la sociedad. El documento da cuenta de cómo estas mujeres generan una memoria desde abajo que las visibiliza y reivindica como gestoras de su propia versión de los hechos victimizantes en contrapeso de las versiones oficiales sobre el conflicto que desestiman las consecuencias de la guerra. La metodología trabajada es cualitativa, se desarrollaron y analizaron cinco entrevistas a mujeres integrantes de la Corporación Zoscua, grupo que trabaja por la “memoria y la vida”, para identificar prácticas de memoria. Con esto, se identificaron los atributos de esas prácticas de la memoria desde abajo, a saber: la resistencia, el carácter intergeneracional, la respuesta al deber de memoria, la acción política, y la memoria que se hace conversando y con las manos. Estos elementos se manifiestan en acciones públicas que dan cuenta de un conflicto invisibilizado. Como resultado, el estudio señala que estas personas implementan sus experiencias personales y colectivas para resistir a la negación y el olvido impuestos y construir redes de solidaridad y apoyo entre las víctimas y sus comunidades, y refleja cómo la “memoria desde abajo” es una herramienta valiosa en la lucha por la justicia y la reparación.
Grobalización, precariedad laboral y e-paranoias:
Authors: Latorre-Iglesias Edimer Leonardo , Donzis Rubén Héctor , Caamaño Yusti Alberto Ulises , Lindo Montañez Gina Paola
Published: June 2024

El artículo de reflexión cuestiona las consecuencias de un mundo hiperconectado globalmente y sus ambivalencias en lo local. Desarrolla una crítica desde la categoría grobalización, efectuando un abordaje al problema de la precarización del trabajo y al impacto de estas fuertes tendencias globales en el derecho laboral, como un subproducto derivado explícitamente del desarrollo de la “McDonalización” en la sociedad contemporánea. El proceso de investigación se implementó desde la aplicación del paradigma hermenéutico, centrado en la revisión de textos y artículos científicos en repositorios institucionales y bases de datos indexadas.
Studienfinanzierung durch Bildungsfonds – Gestaltung, Rechtsnatur und anwendbare Vorschriften
Authors: Möller Matthias , Vogel Hans-Gert
Published: June 2024

Während herkömmliche Studienkredite und die staatliche Förderung nach dem BAföG als studentische Geldquellen in der letzten Zeit immer weiter an Bedeutung verloren haben, verzeichnen sog. Bildungsfonds aktuell auch in Deutschland eine wachsende Zahl an Vertragsabschlüssen. Das Geschäftsmodell der Bildungsfonds besteht darin, dass ausgewählte Studierende aus dem Fonds regelmäßige Zahlungen erhalten, um ihr Studium zu finanzieren. Nach dessen Abschluss leisten sie Rückzahlungen an den Bildungsfonds, deren Höhe von ihrer individuellen Einkommenssituation während einer bestimmten Zeitspanne nach dem Berufseinstieg abhängt. Niedrige Rückzahlungen der Geförderten mit geringem Einkommen werden kompensiert durch wesentlich höhere Zahlungen der nach dem Studium gut Verdienenden. Das individuelle Einkommensrisiko des einzelnen Geförderten wird entsprechend dem Versicherungsprinzip vom Bildungsfonds, letztendlich aber von der Solidargemeinschaft der Geförderten getragen. Die zivilrechtliche Einordnung entsprechender Studienfinanzierungsverträge wird in der Rechtsprechung und im – bislang hierzu spärlichen – Schrifttum nicht einheitlich vorgenommen. Sie ist aber wesentlich mit Blick auf die anwendbaren Vorschriften, etwa des Verbraucherdarlehensrechts. Hiermit sowie mit der bankaufsichtsrechtlichen Relevanz von Studienfinanzierungsverträgen befasst sich der nachstehende Beitrag.
Complementary supportive cardiac rehabilitation
Authors: Jakovljević Mila , Fabris Ana
Published: June 2024

Aim: Physical training increases cardiac exercise capacity, but generally does not affect cardiac function. Since energy metabolism is closely linked to cardiac function, we assessed the impact of the integrative metabolic approach on the cardiac function during cardiovascular rehabilitation. Our concept was not to act on one specific enzyme, protein or particular metabolic pathway, but “to improve the flux” supporting normal mechanisms for energy production without increased generation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species. Methods: 3 weeks exercise training was undertaken on an upright bicycle ergometer in 30 complementary supportive cardiac rehabilitation sessions. Before each exercise training the patients received magnesium, niacin, coenzyme Q10, biotin, glutathione, vitamin E, thiamine diphosphate, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxal, and beta-carotene. Following the exercise training the patients inhaled 95% oxygen 4 l/min provided by oxygen concentrator with ionization lying inside a low frequency pulsed electromagnetic field with intensity of up to 30 microtesla. After oxygen inhalation, the patients received carnitine, arginine, NADH, lipoic acid, selenium, and vitamin C. A cardiopulmonary echocardiograpy exercise test was performed at the start and the end of the three-week session and the patients were asked to evaluate the visual analogue scale. Results: Arithmetic means of most Ergospiro echocardiographic parameters are lower before and higher after rehabilitation. Exceptions are the values VE/VC02, VD/VT, BR and E/e’, where the ratio of arithmetic means is reversed. The correlation coefficients for all 20 pairs of cardiopulmonary echocardiographic variables before and after rehabilitation range from 0, 568 to 0, 952. Most of them are closer to the number 1, that is, most of them show a strong positive association. p values are less than 0, 05 for all 20 pairs of cardiopulmonary echocardiographic variables This means that CSCR statistically significantly improved the results of measurement compared to the results before the rehabilitation. Conclusion: supporting normal mechanisms/pathways/ for energy production might be the way of supporting cardiac function during cardiac rehabilitation.
Systemic lupus erythematosus and cardiovascular risk: clinical score, pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapy aspects: a systematic review
Authors: Mendonça José Alexandre , Petean Pedro de Siqueira , Hyppolito Ferreira William Barros , Carvalho Nayara Mota , Carvalho Carolina Pelisson
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Patients with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) have high rates of cardiovascular risk (CVR). Objectives: Perform a systematic review and meta-analyses, assessing the impact of clinical scores and the use of drug treatments. Method: A systematic review and meta-analyses were carried out, based on the entire structure of the Cochrane handbook, using a PICO strategy (Patient or Problem: SLE; Intervention: clinical scores, drug and non-drug treatment; Control or Comparison: control individuals; Outcomes: atherosclerosis and/or cardiovascular risk), in order to identify studies that addressed these outcomes. Results: A total of 4030 articles were identified, 4 articles were selected in order to identify the CVR through the Framingham score. The meta-analyses identified a non-impact of the Framingham score in relation to the CVR (mean difference: 0.18 [-0.49, 0.86] 95% CI) (p=0.53), 3 studies evaluated the CVR by the use of corticosteroid therapy, it was 1.32 [0.91, 1.93] 95% CI) (p=0.14), but without statistical significance; in relation to the use of hydroxychloroquine, revealed a protective factor of CVR of 0.18 [0.06, 0.56] 95%CI) (p=0.003). Conclusion: There is a need for a more specific clinical score to signal CVR in SLE, the use of drug and non-drug treatment must weigh risks and benefits.
The level of sex and fertility hormones in the serum of male patients recovered from COVID-19
Authors:   Department of Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology, Al-Nahrain University, Jadriya, Baghdad, Iraq, Albayaty M. K. , Ali M. S. ,   University of Technology-Iraq, Applied Sciences Department, Branch of Chemistry, Baghdad, Iraq;, AL-Tarboolee A. Y. ,   Department of Molecular and Medical Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology, Al-Nahrain University, Jadriya, Baghdad, Iraq;, Yousif R. H. ,   Department of Forensic Evidence Sciences, College of Medical Technology, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, Iraq;
Published: June 2024

The new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that generated the COVID­-19 pandemic is a broad-spectrum infection that besides the respiratory tract, can attack multiple organs, including­ the digestive, circulatory, and urinary systems. However, the negative consequences of SARS-CoV-2 on the male reproductive system have been largely ignored. The aim of this research was to see how SARS-CoV-2 affects the production of hormones, which are the markers of male reproductive function and fertility. The 350 Iraqi male participants were classified into two groups consisting of 150 COVID-19 recovered patients with a mean age of (32 ± 7.9) years and COVID-19 diagnosis confirmed by RT-PCR, and 200 apparently healthy male volunteers of similar age. The patients’ group was further divided into three groups depending on the recovery period of 3, 5 and 7 months. Serum levels of testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin were measured using the Mindray CL-1000i automated chemiluminescence analyzer provided with matching kits. When comparing the indices of COVID-19 recovered participants to the control group, the results revealed a decrease in testosterone level that was positively associated with the recovery period and an increase in the LH, FSH and prolactin levels that were negatively associated with the recovery period. It is supposed that infection with SARS-CoV-2 may be followed by a temporary condition of testicular failure. Keywords: male fertility, SARS-COV-2, sex hormones
Alpha-L-fucosidase as a putative prognostic biomarker in breast cancer
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, College of Science, University of Mosul, Iraq, Hamodat Z. M. A. A. , Abdulwahhab H. H. ,   Northern Technical University, AL-dour, Iraq;, Hamodat A. R. M. T. ,   Mosul Center for Cardiac Medicine and Surgery, Mosul, Iraq;
Published: June 2024

Search for reliable biomarkers for predicting progression of breast cancer is essential in managing the disease. So, we are trying to provide new insights into the potential role of alpha-fucosidase (AFU) as a putative prognostic biomarker in breast cancer as compared to classic markers. The study included 56 women with breast cancer; 25 had early breast cancer, and the rest (31) had metastatic breast cancer. Thirty healthy women were considered a control group. Early breast cancer patients had a significantly increased (P ≤ 0.0001) AFU level compared with the control group. A non-significant difference in the De-ritis ratio appeared for early breast cancer compared with control. Metastatic breast cancer had a significantly (P ≤ 0.0001) increased AFU and De-ritis ratio compared with early breast cancer and the control group. A positive significant (P = 0.01) correlation exists between AFU level, age factor (r = 0.295), and the De-ritis ratio in breast cancer patients. We can conclude that it is possible to consider alpha-L-fucosidase (AFU) as a putative prognostic biomarker in breast cancer more potent than the ratio of De-Ritis. Moreover, the coincidence of elevated AFU and De-ritis levels in metastatic breast cancer gives us an idea of the stage of the disease. Keywords: alpha-L-fucosidase, early breast cancer, metastasis, the De-ritis ratio