bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La calidad educativa: una propuesta desde el contexto vital de los educando
Authors: Vélez Arias Juan Manuel , Cardona Muñoz Nelson Eduardo , Rengifo Castañeda Carlos Adolfo
Published: May 2024

En el presente artículo se propone una concepción acerca de la calidad de la educación desde una perspectiva contexto dependiente, esto es, desde el contexto vital[1] de los educandos, siendo esta perspectiva, la condición de posibilidad para una educación de calidad en virtud, no solo del saber, sino también, del ser. Para tal efecto, primero, se dará cuenta de la importancia de la ética, las emociones y la espiritualidad como aquellos contenidos determinantes para una calidad educativa. Segundo, se comprenderá a la pedagogía como la inteligibilidad de una educación situacional. Y tercero, se comprenderá el problema del conocimiento, como una actividad humana, cargada de valores e intereses, contrastando, de este modo, toda concepción de la calidad de la educación reduccionista, afincada en estándares, métricas e indicadores que terminan por desconocer las vicisitudes y peculiaridades de los educandos.
 
Palabras clave: Calidad de la educación, contexto dependencia, ética, emociones, pedagogía, espiritualidad, emociones, epistemología.
 
[1] Sitz Im Leben estructura o delimita el conjunto de circunstancias de la vida escolar y educativa que le otorgan el apelativo calidad. De allí que se conciba como una matriz de sentido categorial
Virtual Learning Experiences Among Postgraduate Students in Namibia
Authors: Romeo Asa Asa , Julian Du Plessis Davy , Olusegun Atiku Sulaiman
Published: May 2024

Significant transformations in conventional learning have occurred due to the COVID-19 pandemic, underscoring the imperative for novel approaches to education. Virtual learning technology (VLT) offers an immersive and engaging education that can revolutionize teaching and learning paradigms and modern experiences. Thus, mobile devices are becoming more prevalent among university students when accessing virtual learning platforms. Moreover, many students in Namibia utilised mobile technology-supported learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. The perceptions of students regarding mobile technology are a subject of ongoing research. This study investigated postgraduate students’ experiences and viewpoints regarding using virtual learning platforms to advance their studies. A total of 42 postgraduate students completed an online survey about their virtual learning experiences in Namibia. The findings show favourable and robust perceptions towards the importance of virtual learning technology in enhancing teaching and learning in Namibia. A consensus was reached among most postgraduate students that learning materials are easily accessible via VLT. Hence, virtual learning platforms offer postgraduate students novel learning opportunities. Isolated disparities were noted in relation to the postgraduate mode of study using VLT, where some postgraduate students still prefer a greater degree of integrated mode for face-to-face teaching approaches. This could be related to slow acceptance, with the possibility of a shift in preference and interest in pleasant VLT experiences over time.
Vade-mecum. Transliteracja autografu
Authors: Norwid Cyprian , Grabowski Mateusz
Published: May 2024

Publikacja stanowi transliterację wszystkich rękopisów wierszy wchodzących w skład Vade-mecum Cypriana Norwida. Jest to pierwsza próba wydania Norwidowskiego dzieła z uwzględnieniem wszystkich elementów autorskiego zapisu, tym samym ukazująca często nieznane redakcje jego najbardziej cenionych liryków. Dzięki temu może służyć jako znakomita baza materiałowa do badań z zakresu tekstologii.
„Dzieło ma walor pełnej oryginalnej dokumentacji tekstologicznej jako pierwsza kompletna transliteracja autografu Vade-mecum, należącego do najważniejszych pozycji literatury polskiej. Rzecz została wykonana bardzo skrupulatnie i odpowiedzialnie. To ważna pomoc naukowa w badaniach nad dziełem Norwida.”
Z recenzji prof.dr.hab. Józefa Ferta (KUL)
Projekt w całości sfinansowany ze środków MNiSW w ramach dotacji badań naukowych i prac rozwojowych służącej rozwojowi młodych naukowców.
Beyond the Nephron: Exploring Systemic Implications of Renal Tubular Acidosis
Authors: Gomez Coral Maria Isabel
Published: May 2024

Renal Tubular Acidosis (RTA) is a complex renal disorder characterized by impaired acid-base regulation, leading to metabolic acidosis. While traditionally classified into several subtypes based on renal tubular dysfunction, emerging evidence highlights the systemic implications of RTA beyond nephron physiology. This article explores the multifaceted systemic manifestations of RTA, including cardiovascular, endocrine, neurological, and psychosocial implications, and discusses the importance of recognizing and addressing these systemic effects in patient care. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and personalized medicine approaches, tailored therapeutic strategies can be developed to mitigate renal and extrarenal manifestations of RTA, thereby improving overall patient well-being. Furthermore, future research directions aimed at elucidating the intricate interplay between acid-base disturbances and systemic organ systems hold promise for advancing our understanding and management of RTA, ultimately enhancing patient care outcomes
Intymność ciała: performatywne strategie wyzwolenia z „wyzwolenia”
Authors: Iżykowska-Uszczyk Agata
Published: May 2024

W artykule omówione zostało zjawisko intymności zniewolonej. Autorka odnosi się do analizy i interpretacji dzieł tworzonych przez polskie artystki współczesne. Podejmuje się omówienia procesów wyzwalania ze stereotypowych modeli postrzegania ciała, w które wciąż wpisywane są kobiety. Przedstawia trzy strategie wspomnianego wyzwalania. Strategie te zostają omówione i przeanalizowane przez pryzmat działań Grupy Sędzia Główny, prac Agaty Zbylut oraz działania Iwony Majdan.
Discovering the relationship between Agri funding and Agri contribution to GDP
Authors: Hossain Murshida , Jahan Afsana , Rahman A. K. M. Ashiqur
Published: May 2024

One of the main goals for Bangladesh is to achieve economic growth by increasing agricultural productivity. I will be conducting research to examine how agricultural financing and contributions impact Bangladesh. The researchers collected yearly time series data from the Bangladesh Bank (BB), Ministry of Finance (MoF), and Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) for the period of 2012 to 2022. This article employed the GMM estimation technique using SPSS to examine the short- and long-term relationships between agricultural financing and agricultural contribution, along with other control variables. The findings of the study showed that there are connections between agricultural funding and agricultural contribution in both the short-term and long-term. Additionally, agricultural productivity is affected by various dynamic factors including GDP, inflation, interest rates, and government agricultural spending. The dependent variable in this study was GDP, while the independent variable was agricultural production. Most agricultural processing sectors, along with some agricultural producing sectors, have a greater potential for making money. This research indicates that it would be beneficial to increase agricultural financing in order to support the economic development of Bangladesh.
Numerical Study on Simulating the Deposition Process of Cold Spray Multi-Particle Al-6061 based on CEL Method
Authors: Tan Kun
Published: May 2024

Cold spray is a solid-state deposition technique that improves the performance of part surfaces. Most scholars use the CEL framework to simulate the deposition of single particles on the substrate; Single particle depositions cannot fully characterize coating conditions. This article proposes to use the CEL method to simulate the deposition process of cold spray multi-particles on the Al6061 substrate. A multi-particle wrapped model is nested in a deposition model created by CEL to simulate the cold spray multi-particle deposition process. The Euler-Lagrangian method has the characteristics of high accuracy and robustness, and was selected as the method for multi-particle deposition model simulation; The CEL framework is a feasible method to simulate the actual cold spray multi-particle deposition process. The results show that the CEL framework can simulate the deposition of cold sprayed Al6061 multi-particles on the Al6061 substrate, observe the EVF Void value of the coating, and monitor the porosity of the coating after deposition. It is observed that the maximum substrate surface temperature after deposition is 528.2K and is located at the junction of particle and particle impact; By analyzing the temperature change curve of five points collected on the substrate over time, the curve appears multiple inflection points, indicating that heat transfer occurs between the particles and the substrate during the deposition process; the substrate first heats up and then cools down. During the multi-deposition process, the particles undergo plastic deformation and continuously squeeze the coating, thereby achieving interconnection between the particles and the substrate; Mechanical interlocking between particles forms a coating.
The Role of CyberKnife Stereotactic Radiosurgery in Recurrent Cranial Medulloblastomas across Pediatric and Adult Populations
Authors: Yoo Kelly H. , Marianayagam Neelan J , Park David J , Zamarud Aroosa , Gu Xuejun , Pollom Erqi , Soltys Scott G. , Meola Antonio , Chang Steven D
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives: Medulloblastoma is the most common malignant brain tumor in children. In recent decades, the therapeutic landscape has undergone significant changes, with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) emerging as a promising treatment for recurrent cases. Our study provides a comprehensive analysis of the long-term efficacy and safety of SRS in recurrent medulloblastomas across both pediatric and adult patients at a single institution.
Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the clinical and radiological records of patients who underwent CyberKnife SRS for recurrent cranial medulloblastomas at our institution between 1998 and 2023. Follow-up data were available for 15 medulloblastomas in 10 patients. The cohort comprised 8 pediatric patients (ages 3-18) and 2 adult patients (ages 19-75). Median age at the time of SRS was 13 years, median tumor volume accounted for 1.9 cc, median biologically equivalent dose (BED) was 126 Gy, and single-fraction equivalent dose (SFED) was 18 Gy. The SRS was administered at 75% of the median isodose line.
Results: Following a median follow-up of 39 months (range: 6-78), 53.3% of the medulloblastomas progressed, 13.3% regressed, and 33.3% remained stable. The 3-year local tumor control (LTC) rate for all medulloblastomas was 65%, with lower rates observed in the adult cohort (50%) and higher rates in pediatric patients (67%). The 3-year overall survival (OS) rate was 70%, with significantly higher rates in pediatric patients (75%) compared to adult patients (50%). The 3-year progression-free survival (PFS) rate was 58.3%, with higher rates in pediatric patients (60%) compared to adult patients (50%). Two pediatric patients developed radiation-induced edema, while two adult patients experienced radiation necrosis at the latest follow-up, with both adult patients passing away.
Conclusion: Our study provides a complex perspective on the efficacy and safety of CyberKnife SRS in treating recurrent cranial medulloblastomas across pediatric and adult populations. The rarity of adverse radiation events (ARE) underscores the safety profile of SRS, reinforcing its role in enhancing treatment outcomes. The intricacies of symptomatic outcomes, intertwined with factors such as age, tumor location, and prior surgeries, emphasize the need for personalized treatment approaches. Our findings underscore the imperative for ongoing research and the development of more refined treatment strategies for recurrent medulloblastomas. Given the observed disparities in treatment outcomes, a more meticulous tailoring of treatment approaches becomes crucial.
Factors Influencing Non-Surgical Root Canal Treatment Outcomes in Mandibular Second Molars: A Retrospective Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Analysis
Authors: Park Da-min , Seok Woo-Hyun , Yoon Ji-Young
Published: May 2024

Background/Objectives: This study aims to investigate the influence of root canal morphology and various treatment variables on the outcomes of root canal treatments (RCT) in mandibular second molars, assessed through cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging. Methods: A total of 150 CBCT images were examined, comprising 100 cases of persistent endodontic infections and 50 from previously treated root canals with normal apices in mandibular second molars. CBCT was utilized to evaluate root canal configuration, the radiographic quality of coronal restorations and treated canal systems, and the presence of periapical lesions. Statistical analyses were performed to explore correlations between these factors. Results: The presence of a C-shaped root canal configuration did not demonstrate a significant correlation with periapical lesions (p=0.05). Factors influencing endodontic treatment outcomes included the presence of missing canals (p=0.018), underfilling or overfilling (p=0.045), and inadequate coronal restoration (p=0.006). The presence of a missing canal was identified as the variable most significantly associated with periapical lesions (OR=3.103). Leaky canals were more commonly observed in C-shaped root canals (p<0.001). Conclusions: Regardless of the root canal morphology of mandibular second molars, successful RCT depends on thorough disinfection to eliminate any untreated canals, precise three-dimensional filling of the canals at the correct working length, and a securely sealed coronal restoration to prevent leakage.
3-Chymotrypsin-like Protease (3CLpro): Validation as a Molecular Target, Proposal of a Novel Catalytic Mechanism, and Inhibitors in Preclinical and Clinical Trials
Authors: Amorim Vitor Martins de Freitas , Soares Eduardo Pereira , Ferrari Anielle Salviano de Almeida , Merighi Davi Gabriel Salustiano , de Souza Robson Francisco , Guzzo Cristiane Rodrigues , Souza Anacleto Silva de
Published: May 2024

Proteases represent common targets in combating infectious diseases including COVID-19. The 3-chymotrypsin-like protease (3CLpro) is a validated molecular target for COVID-19 and it is key for developing potent and selective inhibitors for inhibiting viral replication of SARS-CoV-2. In this review, we discuss structural relationships and diverse subsites of 3CLpro, shedding light on the pivotal role of dimerization and active site architecture in substrate recognition and catalysis. Our analysis of bioinformatics and other published studies unveil a proposal of a novel catalytic mechanism for the SARS-CoV-2 polyprotein cleavage by 3CLpro, centering on the triad mechanism involving His41-Cys145-Asp187 and its indispensable role in viral replication. Recognizing Asp187 as a crucial component in the catalytic process underscores its significance as a fundamental pharmacophoric element in drug design. Next, we provide an overview of both covalent and non-covalent inhibitors, elucidating advancements in drug development observed in preclinical and clinical trials. By highlighting various chemical classes and their pharmacokinetic profiles, our review aims to guide future research directions toward the development of highly selective inhibitors, underscore the significance of 3CLpro as a validated therapeutic target, and propel the progression of drug candidates through preclinical and clinical phases.
Development and Implementation of a Smart Charging System for Electric Vehicles based on the
ISO 15118 Standard
Authors: Santos Jóni Buchinho , Francisco André Mendes Botelho , Cabrita Cristiano Lourenço , Monteiro Janio , Pacheco André , Sequeira Cardoso Pedro Jorge
Published: May 2024

There is currently an exponential growth in the electric vehicle market, which will require an increase in the electrical grid capacity to meet the demand of charging. If, on the one hand, the introduction of energy generation from renewable sources can be used to meet that requirement, the intermittent nature of some of these sources poses challenges to the required real time equilibrium between generation and consumption. The impossibility of controlling generation from some of these sources leads to the attempt of controlling and manage the consumption of electricity, according with the levels of generation. In this context, the emergence of smart grids has introduced mechanisms that guarantee a balance between consumption and generation of electricity. One of these mechanisms is the smart charging of electric vehicles. Effective smart charging relies on communication between the supply equipment and the electric vehicle, en-abling the adjustment of the energy transfer according with the generation levels. Thus, there is a necessity for a standardised system that guarantees this communication. In this context, the ISO 15118 standard, allows high level communication mechanisms, much beyond the basic control solutions offered by the IEC 61851-1 specification. In this context, this paper presents the development of a charge emulation system, based on the ISO 15118 communication protocol and discusses its application for demand response purposes.
Identifying Disparities and Promoting Environmental Justice for Vulnerable Populations in India
Authors: Vaswani Vina , Akuma Ifeanyichukwu
Published: May 2024

This article touched upon various issues regarding vulnerability, disparities amongst community settings, and the effect of air pollution on the populace (low-income communities). Furthermore, the paper emphasized environmental ethics approaches like anthropocentric, nature-centric, and deep-ecological approaches. More so, it addresses the importance of handling these disparities, particularly from the geopolitical dimension, and recommends cross-border cooperation and accountability in promoting environmental justice in India.
Efficacy of Lasmiditan as a Secondary Treatment for Migraine Attacks After Unsuccessful Treatment with a Triptan
Authors: Shibata Yasushi , Sato Hiroshige , Sato Akiko , Ha Youichi
Published: May 2024

The combined use of lasmiditan and triptan is unexplored in medical literature. This study aimed to investigate whether the intake of lasmiditan following triptan improves migraine pain. Following triptan intake, if headache relief was less than 50% at 1 hour, patients took 50 mg lasmiditan within 2 hours of migraine onset. Patients recorded headache intensity and adverse events(AEs) caused by lasmiditan at 1, 2, and 4 hours after intake of additional 50 mg of lasmiditan. A significant reduction in pain scale was observed post 50 mg lasmiditan intake (p < 0.001, t-test). Pain relief was reported for 32 migraine attacks (80%) at 1 hour after additional lasmiditan intake. Although AEs were observed in 63% of the patients who took an additional lasmiditan, most were mild and resolved 1 hour after lasmiditan intake. Our study revealed the significant headache reliefs provided by an additional lasmiditan for patients who did not achieve satisfactory results following initial triptan intake for treating migraine. The AEs associated with this treatment strategy were mild and lasted for a short term. This study suggested that the combination of triptan and lasmiditan is promising for the treatment of migraine and should be studied in a randomized placebo-controlled trial.
Quantitative-Qualitative Assessment of Dream Reports in Schizophrenia and Their Correlations with Illness Severity
Authors: Ficca Gianluca , De Rosa Oreste , Giangrande Davide , Mazzei Tommaso , Marzolo Salvatore , Albinni Benedetta , Coppola Alessia , Lustro Alessio , Conte Francesca
Published: May 2024

Dreams and positive symptoms of schizophrenia are similar in many aspects, such as bizarre-ness, impairment of reality testing, intense emotional participation. Hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thoughts have been proposed to be an intrusion of the dreaming state in wake-fulness: conversely, psychotic patients’ abnormal cognitive and behavioral features could over-flow into sleep, transferring peculiar features to their dreams which would differ, in quantity and quality, from those of healthy people. Here we assess this latter hypothesis by analyzing the dreams of 46 patients, hosted in a residential facility or in a day-treatment center, affected by disorders of the schizophrenic spectrum with psychotic symptoms, versus those of 28 healthy controls, in terms of several quantitative and qualitative characteristics. In patients, we also in-vestigated whether dream variables correlated with the severity of symptoms assessed via the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale.
Overall, patients reported fewer and shorter dreams than controls, with a reduction of many ele-ments like characters and settings. The greatest differences regarded emotions, which were less frequent in patients and inversely correlated with symptoms’ severity. This evidence supports the hypothesis that dreams are crucial for emotion regulation during wakefulness and that this func-tion could be totally or partially ineffective in psychoses.
Simulation-Based Medical Education: 3D Printing and the Seldinger Technique
Authors: Hyndman David , McHugh Douglas
Published: May 2024

3D-printed models with high anatomic fidelity are an increasingly viable tool in simulation-based medical education. One advantage of 3D models is they provide enhanced tactile and spatial understanding of complex anatomy to develop technical skills used in minimally invasive procedures. We propose that 3D anatomical models can improve the development of Interventional Radiology vascular access skills – first described in the 1950s as the Seldinger Technique – for pre-clerkship medical students. Early adoption of 3D-printed technology in pre-clinical medical education can lead to improved student engagement and satisfaction when learning procedural techniques. This study involved creating a 3D model of the upper extremity vasculature from an anonymized CT angiogram, using it as a medical education tool for 31 pre-clinical medical students practicing the Seldinger Technique on a prefabricated venipuncture arm, and assessing student satisfaction with this form of learning. Overall, attendees responded positively to the incorporation of the 3D model in medical education to improve their anatomic understanding and application to the Seldinger Technique. These results indicate that the use of 3D models in simulation-based medical education can provide benefits to acquiring technical skills and the potential to decrease training costs without harming a patient.
Temporal Assessment of Phosphorus Speciation in a Model Ramsar Lake System in Asia
Authors: Venukumar Anjali , Azimov Abdugani , Iztleuov Gani , Moorchilot Vishnu , Aravind Usha K , Sataev Marat , Koshy Valsamma , Aravindakumar Charuvila T.
Published: May 2024

Phosphorus (P) concentration in rivers and lakes receives greater attention due to its significance in contributing to eutrophication. This study aimed at profiling phosphorus species in Vembanad lake (Ramsar site) and its adjoining rivers. Four phosphorus fractions (total reactive phosphorus (TRP), total acid hydrolysable phosphorus (TAHP), total organic phosphorus (TOP) and total phosphorus (TP)) were monitored according to premonsoon and postmonsoon seasons. Meenachil river mouth is a hotspot for eutrophication with high values of most of the phosphorus fractions. Among the four fractions TRP, TOP and TP were recorded maximum concentration during the premonsoon and postmonsoon seasons. Each fraction of TRP, TAHP, TOP, and TP had an average concentration of more than 300 µgL-1 P throughout two seasons, which is highly eutrophic. The result reveals that the surface water of Vembanad lake is highly polluted with phosphorus input and it may trigger algal growth and consequent destruction of the biodiversity rich wetland system.
Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity: A Global Scenario
Authors: Mandal Subhadip , Patra Swapan Kumar
Published: May 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools and techniques are comparatively recent advances of present-day globalized world. With their easy availability and friendly user interface AI has affected every sphere of human being. These tools are increasingly becoming popular because of the numerous benefits occurred to the society in many ways. However, there are not only the positive side of these technologies, but also many negative sides. Along with the development and adoption of AI, cyber-attacks are increased and disrupting the information system. Threat actors may misuse artificial intelligence. Hence, these tool designers are working and applying the ability of generative AI can tip the scales in cybersecurity. So, in the age of AI, there is always tension between the cyber attackers and the defenders to make a balanced information system. It is a general rule that defenders must be well in advance in their favor and keep ahead of adversaries. The United National and several governments for example the US, UK, and the big AI giants like Microsoft along with OpenAI, are working on emerging cyberattacks. This research paper explores the concept of information resilience in ML and AI systems, focusing on strategies to enhance their ability to withstand uncertainties, adversarial attacks, and data perturbations.
Exploring Novel Biomarkers for an Acute Coronary Syndrome Diagnosis Utilizing Plasma Metabolomics
Authors: Shibata Masayuki , Sugimoto Masahiro , Watanabe Norikazu , Namiki Atsuo
Published: May 2024

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a life-threatening condition that requires a prompt diagnosis and therapeutic intervention. Although serum troponin T and creatinine kinase-MB (CK-MB) are established biomarkers for ACS, it may take several hours to reach diagnostic values for ACS. In this study, we attempted to explore novel biomarkers for ACS with higher sensitivity than that of troponin T and CK-MB. The metabolomic profiles of 18 patients with ACS upon hospital arrival and those of the age-matched control (HC) group consisted of 24 healthy volunteers were analyzed using liquid chromatography-time-of-flight mass spectrometry. Volcano plots showed 24 metabolites whose concentrations differed significantly between the ACS and HC groups. Using these data, we developed a multiple logistic regression model for the ACS diagnosis, in which lysine, isocitrate, and tryptophan were selected as minimum-independent metabolites. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve value for discriminating ACS from HC was 1.00 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.00-1.00). In contrast, those for troponin T and CK-MB were 0.917 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.812-1.00) and 0.988 (95% CI: 0.966-1.00), respectively. This study showed the potential of combining three plasma metabolites to discriminate ACS from HC with a higher sensitivity than that of troponin T and CK-MB.
Essential Load-bearing Characteristics of Steel-concrete Composite Floor System in Fire Revealed by Structural Stressing State Theory
Authors: Zhang Dashan , Qi Jianquan , Wang Huiqing , Wang Kang , Dong Yuli , Zhou Guangchun
Published: May 2024

This study reveals the essential load-bearing characteristics of the steel-concrete composite floor system under fire conditions applying structural stressing state theory. Firstly, the strain data in the entire process of the fire test are modeled as state variables which can present the slab’s stressing state evolution characteristics; Then, the state variables are used to build the stressing state mode and the parameter characterizing the mode. Further, the Mann-Kendall criterion is adopted to detect the leap points in the evolution curves of the characteristic parameters during the entire fire exposure process. Also, the evolution curves of the stressing state modes are investigated to verify the leap profiles around the leap/characteristic points; Finally, the detected leap points are defined as the failure starting points and elastoplastic branching points, which is unseen in the past researches focusing on the failure endpoint defined at the ultimate load-bearing state of the composite floor system. The failure starting point and the elastoplastic branching point are the embodiment of natural law from quantitative change to quality change of a system rather than an empirical and statistical judgment. Hence, both characteristic points avoidably exist in the strain data of the composite floor system undergoing the fire process, which can be revealed through the proper modeling methods and update the existing theories and methods on structural analysis and design in fire.
Uropathogenic E. coli and Hybrid Pathotypes in Mexican Women with Urinary Tract Infections: A Comprehensive Mo-lecular and Phenotypic Overview.
Authors: Ballesteros-Monrreal Manuel G , Mendez-Pfeiffer Pablo , Ortiz Bryan , Bolado-Martínez Enrique , Álvarez-Ainza Maritza Lizeth , Enciso-Martínez Yessica , Arenas-Hernández Margarita M P , Diaz-Murrieta Betsaida , Barrios-Villa Edwin , Valencia Dora
Published: May 2024

Uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) is the main etiologic agent of urinary tract infections (UTI) and possesses virulence and resistance determinants commonly harbored in mobilizable genetic elements such as plasmids or pathogenicity islands (PAI). UPEC belongs to the group of Ex-traintestinal pathogenic E. coli, however the existence of hybrid strains has been described; these possess both diarrheagenic (DEC) and extraintestinal (ExPEC) E. coli traits and are considered as "hypervirulent strains," which represents a significant health problem. This study aimed to de-termine the prevalence of UPEC PAI, ExPEC sequence types (ST), DEC genes, carbapenemase and extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) phenotypes, fluoroquinolones/aminoglycosides resistance genotypes and the presence of plasmids in 40 clinical isolates previously characterized as UPEC. A 72.5% of the isolates presented PAI, mainly PAI IV536 (53%). Sixty-five percent of the β-lactam-resistant isolates were positive for ESBL phenotype, and 100% of the car-bapenem-resistant isolates were carbapenemase producers. The most prevalent ESBL-associated gene was blaCTX-M-2 (60%), while among isolates resistant to fluoroquinolones and aminoglycosides the most frequent resistance gene was aac(6')Ib (93%). Plasmid bands were present in 57% of the isolates. Seventy percent belonged to the ST131 clonal group. The presence of molecular markers associated with DEC pathotypes was detected in 20 isolates; 60% were classified as hybrid pathotypes. These data suggest, in addition to an important pathogenic potential, the existence of hybrid pathotypes in clinical isolates of E. coli causing UTI in the Mexican population.
Creating Family-Centred Support for Children with Developmental Disabilities in Africa. Examples of Local Community Interventions
Authors: McConkey Roy , Allen Sally , Mlambo Chipo , Kambarami Patricia , Martin Karina
Published: May 2024

Preschoolers with disabilities and their family caregivers are missed out in many public health initiatives especially in low-income countries. Yet they can benefit from early intervention to promote their development from soon after birth and to provide a better quality of life for their families. In this paper, we describe how a community-based approach has been implemented with minimal funding in two areas in Zimbabwe: a township in Harare and in rural areas of Manicaland Province. Our aim in sharing this information – allied with references to research studies recently undertaken in Africa – is that it will enable similar supports to be replicated in other communities by local personnel. A logic model is used to describe the situation in which the two projects work, the various inputs they have provided to their community and the different forms of support they have offered to the children and their caregivers. The project outputs are listed in terms of the number of beneficiaries helped and activities undertaken. The outcomes achieved for the children, the family and communities are reported. The sustainability and extensions of community-based projects to address unmet needs are discussed. The main conclusion is that disadvantaged communities can be energized to address the needs of their most marginalized residents.
RDAGAN:A Residual Dense Attention GAN for Microscopic Image Super-Resolution
Authors: Liu Sanya , Weng Xiao , Gao Xingen , Xu Xiaoxin , Zhou Lin
Published: May 2024

With the development of deep learning, the Super-Resolution (SR) reconstruction of microscopic images has improved significantly. However, the scarcity of microscopic images for training, the underutilization of hierarchical features in original Low Resolution (LR) images, and the high-frequency noise unrelated with the image structure generated during reconstruction process are still challenges in the Single Image Super-Resolution (SISR) field. Faced with these issues, we first collected sufficient microscopic images through Motic, a company engaged in the design and production of optical and digital microscopes, to establish a dataset. Secondly, we proposed a Residual Dense Attention Generative Adversarial Network (RDAGAN). The network comprises a generator, an image discriminator, and a feature discriminator. The generator includes a Residual Dense Block (RDB) and a Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM), focusing on extracting the hierarchical features of the original LR image. Simultaneously, the added feature discriminator enables the network to generate high-frequency features pertinent to the image’s structure. Finally, we conducted experimental analysis and compared our model with six classic models. Compared with the best model, our model improved PSNR and SSIM by about 1.5dB and 0.2, respectively.
Enhancing Histopathological Image Classification Performance through Synthetic Data Generation with Generative Adversarial Networks
Authors: Ruiz-Casado José L. , Molina-Cabello Miguel A. , Luque-Baena Rafael M.
Published: May 2024

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide, primarily affecting women, while histopathological image analysis is one of the possibilities used to determine tumor malignancy. Regarding image analysis, the application of deep learning has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. However, a significant issue is the unbalanced nature of available datasets, with some classes having more images than others, which may impact the performance of the models due to poorer generalisability. A possible strategy to avoid this problem is downsampling the class with the most images to create a balanced dataset. Nevertheless, this approach is not recommended for small datasets as it can lead to poor model performance. Instead, techniques such as data augmentation are traditionally used to address this issue. These techniques apply simple transformations, such as translation or rotation, to the images to increase variability in the dataset. Recently, Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) have emerged, which can generate images from a relatively small training set. This work aims to enhance the model’s performance in classifying histopathological images by applying data augmentation using GANs instead of traditional techniques.
Quality Education for All: A Fuzzy Set Analysis of Sustainable Development Goal Compliance
Authors: Carvalho Luísa , Almeida Dora , Loures Ana , Ferreira Paulo , Rebola Fernando
Published: May 2024

Considering the unquestionable role of education in economic development, it has an impact at a macroeconomic level—contributing to enhancing productivity and innovation, reducing poverty and promoting social cohesion—and at a personal level—ensuring the improvement of knowledge, skills and individual capabilities and promoting social values like empowerment and equality. Notably, quality education is recognized as one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which, jointly with other behaviors and attitudes, could impact the development of societies in other fields like health and well-being, cultural preservation, environmental sustainability and even peace and stability—all of them also listed as SDGs. However, the capacity, or not, to reach higher levels of compliance with quality in education (SDG 4) varies from country to country, according to the 2023 Sustainable Development Report results. Thus, the present study used a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis to assess the conditions for attaining higher levels of quality education based on the different indicators used to measure SDG 4. The analysis will allow comparisons of results among different countries and provide information about the initiatives that could be relevant to increasing quality education worldwide and for policymakers.
Repurposing of Synthetic Acetaminophen Derivatives Containing Benzothiazole Scaffold as Alternative Therapy for Infectious Diarrhea Caused by Drug-Resistant Shigella Species
Authors: Pone Kamdem Boniface , Pinlap Brice rostan , Noumboue Kouamou Bijou-Lafortune , Youbi Kamche Aubin , Kuate Boris Arnaud , Tsemeugne Joseph , Ngomo Orleans , Mkounga Pierre , Fekam Boyom Fabrice
Published: May 2024

Diarrhea remains one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide, especially among children. Recent epidemiological studies conducted in developing countries identified Shigella species as the most predominant pathogenic bacteria responsible for diarrhea. Antimicrobial therapy is necessary for Shigella infections; however, the rapid emergence of resistance against existing antimicrobials in Shigella spp. poses a serious global health problem. To identify alternative antimicrobial compounds with activity against Shigella species, the pathogens responsible for bacterial diarrhea. In this study, we have applied antibacterial phenotypic screening to identify potent anti-Shigella compounds across a broad chemical diversity, including selected acetaminophen derivatives containing benzothiazoles backbone, and their combination with certain antibiotics. In continuation to our effort in searching potent antimicrobial compounds, we have found this time around that two acetaminophen derivatives containing benzothiazoles backbone (4a and 4b) could inhibit the growth of Shigella flexneri with common MIC value of 12.5 µg/ml. These compounds were established through a time-kill kinetics’ study to be bactericidal. Meanwhile, the 2-aminobenzothiazoles (1a and 1b) used for the synthesis of compounds 4 (a & b) were found to be poorly active (MIC: 100 µg/ml) against this pathogen. Combination studies of 4a and 4b with the least susceptible antibiotics (ceftriaxone and cotrimoxazole) demonstrated synergistic anti-Shigella activity. The present study demonstrates that the azobenzothiazole dyes 4 (a & b) can be repurposed as potential anti-Shigella compounds, which can serve as scaffolds for the development of new agents against infectious diarrhea caused by Shigella and other enteric pathogens, especially in developing countries.
Cerebral Microbleeds Associate with Brain Endothelial Cell Activation-Dysfunction and Blood-Brain Barrier Dysfunction-Disruption with an Increased Risk of Hemorrhagic and Ischemic Stroke That Is Capable of Exacerbating Neurodegeneration
Authors: Hayden Melvin Ray
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Cerebral microbleed(s) (CMBs) are increasingly being viewed not only as a marker for cerebral small vessel disease (SVD) but also as having an increased risk for the development of stroke (hemorrhagic/ischemic) and aging-related dementia. Recently, brain endothelial cell activation and dysfunction and blood-brain barrier dysfunction and/or disruption have been shown to be associated with SVD, enlarged perivascular spaces, and the development and evolution of CMBs. CMBs are a known disorder of cerebral microvessels that are visualized as 3-5mm, smooth, round or oval, and hypointense (black) lesions seen only on T2*-weighted gradient recall echo or susceptibility-weighted sequences on MRI images. CMBs (a global problem) are known to occur with high prevalence in community-dwelling older individuals. Since our current global population is the oldest recorded in history and only expected to continue to grow, we can only expect the health care burdens associated with CMBs to also grow. CMBs should raise a red flag regarding the increased risk of large symptomatic neurologic intracerebral hemorrhages. Importantly, CMBs are also currently regarded as markers of diffuse vascular and neurodegenerative brain damage. Thus, it is essential that we try to learn as much as we can about their development, evolution, and their relation to impaired cognition, dementia, and neurodegeneration.
Combination of Hydrolysable Tannins and Zinc Oxide on Enterocyte Functionality: In Vitro Insights
Authors: Ciaramellano Francesca , Scipioni Lucia , Belà Benedetta , Pignataro Giulia , Giacovazzo Giacomo , Angelucci Clotilde Beatrice , Giacominelli Stuffler Roberto , Gramenzi Alessandro , Oddi Sergio
Published: May 2024

In the symptomatic treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, high dosages of zinc oxide (ZnO) were conventionally employed. However, concerns regarding the potential for microbial resistance and ecological detriment have arisen due to the excessive application of this compound. These concerns highlight the urgency to minimize the use of ZnO and to explore sustainable nutritional solutions. Hydrolysable tannins (HTs), known for their role in traditional medicine for acute gastrointestinal issues, emerge as a promising alternative. This study examined the combined effect of food-grade HTs and lower ZnO concentration on relevant biological functions of Caco-2 cells, a widely used model of the intestinal epithelial barrier. We found that, when used together, ZnO and HTs (ZnO/HTs) enhanced tissue repair and improved epithelial barrier function, normalizing the expression and functional organization of tight junction proteins. Finally, the ZnO/HTs combination strengthened enterocyte defence against oxidative stress induced by inflammation stimuli. In conclusion, combining ZnO and HTs may offer a suitable and practical approach for decreasing ZnO levels in veterinary medical applications.
Research on Financial Risk Management Early Warning Model for Chinese Enterprises
Authors: Wei Haitong , Wang Xinghai
Published: May 2024

This paper utilizes the 2020 financial data of A-share listed companies, both ST and non-ST, as the data sample. The model is constructed employing the Factor-Logistic fusion algorithm. Eight key indicator factors were selected from the frameworks of profitability, solvency, operating capacity, development potential, shareholder retained earnings, cash flow and asset growth. An independent indicator system was subsequently established to address the issue of collinearity among risk indicators. The results of model are presented in the form of probabilities, enhancing the interpretability of model. The weights of the features indicate the influence of different features on the final outcome. The model achieves a prediction accuracy of over 89%, with an AUC score exceeding 95%. Finally, by applying the principles of interval estimation theory in statistical hypothesis testing, the risk levels are categorized as A-level representing significant risk, B-level representing moderate risk, C-level representing minor risk and D-level representing no risk. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive definition of a universal financial risk management warning model for enterprises, applicable to all enterprises in China.
Using Full Binary Directed Tree Proof the Collatz Conjecture
Authors: Feng Jishe
Published: May 2024

We use binary string to represent a natural number and show the composite procedure of odd-number and even-number functions, thus we propose full binary directed tree to represent the set of natural numbers and give another partition the natural number set to three sets: pure odd, pure even and mixed number. For the Collatz conjecture we make use of the parity of a natural number to analyse the sequence of iteration (or composite) of Collatz function and reduced Collatz function analog to the inverse function. We give tabular and binary strings to the algebra expression to state the sequence of Collatz, this is the key topic to proof the conjecture: the discrete powers of 2 can be changed to ultimately continuous powers of 2, finally get to pure even number and to the smallest number 1. The sequence created by the infinite iterations of the Collatz function becomes the ultimately periodic sequence if any natural number is the beginning value, proving the conjecture that has been held for 87 years.
Stretch-Induced Spin-Cast Membranes Based on Semi-Crystalline Polymers for Efficient Microfiltration
Authors: Saleem Junaid , Moghal Zubair Khalid Baig , Hafeez Ahsan , Shoaib Mohammad , Alahmad Johaina , McKay Gordon
Published: May 2024

Microfiltration membranes derived from semi-crystalline polymers face various challenges when synthesized through the extrusion–casting technique, including the use of large quantities of polymer, long casting times, and the generation of substantial waste. This study focuses on synthesizing these membranes using spin-casting followed by stretch-induced pore formation. Recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and virgin polyethylene powder, combined with a calcium carbonate filler, were used as the source materials for the membranes. The influence of the polymer-filler ratio with and without stretching on the morphology, tensile strength, and water flow rate was investigated. Optimal conditions were determined, emphasizing a balance between pore structure and mechanical integrity. The permeable membrane possessed a mean pore diameter of 500 nm, exhibited a tensile strength measuring 32 MPa, allowed water to flow at a rate of 19 ml/min, and had a water contact angle of 126°. These membranes effectively eliminated suspended particles from water, with their performance evaluated against that of commercially available membranes. This research outlines a synthesis route for microfiltration membranes tailored to semi-crystalline polymers and their plastic forms, utilizing the spin-casting technique.
Comparison of the Limit of Detection of Paracetamol, Propyphenazone, and Caffeine Analyzed by TLC and HPTLC
Authors: Bober-Majnusz Katarzyna , Pyka-Pająk Alina
Published: May 2024

TLC and HPTLC in normal (NP) and reversed (RP) phase systems combined with densitometry were used to analyze caffeine, propyphenazone and paracetamol. Normal phase analyses were performed on five different stationary phases (chromatographic plates), testing three mobile phases. Reversed-phase analyses were performed on four different chromatographic plates using three mobile phases. Thus, it was checked whether analyses using TLC chromatographic plates could be as sensitive as those performed on HPTLC plates. For all analyzed biologically active substances, the limit of detection (LOD) was calculated, i.e. a parameter that describes the method sensitivity. It has been shown that using both TLC and HPTLC plates, it is possible to develop chromatographic conditions that enable the detection of caffeine, propyphenazone and paracetamol in amounts ranging from a dozen to several dozen µg/spot. In the reversed-phase (RP) system, lower LOD values for all tested compounds were obtained using TLC than HPTLC. However, using analyses in the normal phase system (NP), similar (of the same order) LOD values are obtained for caffeine, propyphenazone and paracetamol, both when using TLC and HPTLC plates. Therefore, for economic reasons, TLC plates should be recommended for analyses of caffeine, propyphenazone and paracetamol, which are several times cheaper than HPTLC plates.