bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the Risk Associated with Fish Ingestion in the Volta Grande of the Xingu River - Brazilian Amazon Region
Authors: Sousa-Junior Pedro Moreira de , Pereira Simone de Fátima Pinheiro , Anunciação Antônio André Novaes da , Costa Hemilton Cardoso da , Souza Alan Marcel Fernandes de , Rocha Ronaldo Magno , Silva Cleber Silva e , Teixeira Orivan Maria Marques
Published: August 2024

Mining activity in the Amazon region has brought, over the years, environmental impacts and impacts on the health of traditional peoples such as indigenous and riverside peoples. The implementation of large projects in the region, such as hydroelectric plants, has changed the conditions of water bodies, adding potentially toxic metals to the environment that can be harmful to flora, fauna, and human beings. The objective of this research was to study the risk associated with local populations of ingestion of fish species captured in the Volta Grande region of the Xingu River, located in the Brazilian Amazon region. Sixty specimens of pacu (Piaractus mesopotamicus), pescada (Plagioscion spp.), piranha (Serrasalmus spp.), and tucunaré (Cichla spp.) fish were collected in two different regions of Volta Grande (middle and lower portions). For the determination of the elements Al, Mn, and Zn, an optical emission spectrometer with inductively coupled plasma was used, and for the Hg analysis, direct analysis with gold amalgamation was used. Statistical comparison tests and the use of indices were applied to assess the associated health risk, such as the Target Hazard Quotient (THQ) and Total Target Hazard Quotient (TTHQ) indicators and the risk of consuming food contaminated by Potentially Toxic Metals. The results showed that the elements Al, Mn, and Zn are the most susceptible to bioconcentration in fish, with the most affected species being Piaractus mesopotamicus and Serrasalmus spp. above safety limits.
Physical, vibro-mechanical and optical properties of pernambuco in relation to bow-making qualitative evaluation and wood diversity
Authors: Brémaud Iris
Published: August 2024

Pernambuco is the archetypal wood in modern bows of the violin-family. This species (Paubrasilia echinata) is endangered. Existing literature suggests remaining questions on how its properties’ variability relates to qualification in bow-making, and to diversity. Here 61 pernambuco specimens, with various qualitative evaluations by makers, are characterised for physical, elastic, dynamic, and optical properties. Results are compared with standard relations between-properties, and with 53 pre-selected tropical hardwoods. The tested pernambuco stands in the medium-upper range of these pre-selected species for density (ρ) and modulus of elasticity (E). It is exceptional for its very low damping coefficient (tanδ) and very intense colour (red a*, yellow b* and chroma C*). Within-species variability is high. Qualification is mostly associated to ρ, colour hue angle h° and gloss, then to elasticity – but E and E/ρ (specific modulus) overlap between groups. Qualification involves appearance (L*, h°, gloss) when freshly cut, and with anticipation of changes after ageing or finishing. The properties (damping, chroma) that make pernambuco exceptional among species, are not clearly related to the qualification within the studied sampling. Analyses help better understand the specificities of pernambuco, and highlight the multifactorial nature of wood selection at two levels: between-species preference, and within-species qualification.
Research on image compression technology based on improved SPIHT compression algorithm for power grid data
Authors: Liu Min , Zhou Guoliang , Wang Hongxu , Zheng Yi
Published: August 2024

At present, the amount of information on power grid operation and maintenance monitoring image data is increasing, and the requirements for data compression are higher and higher. Based on the improved SPIHT image compression algorithm, this study presents the research of power grid data compression. First, the basic theory of image compression, and the principle of one-dimensional wavelet transform and two-dimensional wavelet transform are introduced. The development process, characteristics, and advantages of image coding are discussed. Then, the shortcomings of the SPIHT algorithm are analyzed, and the SPIHT coding is improved by parallel computation. The parallel wavelet transform algorithm based on the block idea and the parallel SPIHT coding algorithm based on the code tree are proposed in the data parallelism of the compression algorithm. At the same time, the data dependence between tasks in the process of SPIHT image compression coding is analyzed, and the task parallelism in the compression algorithm is realized by using the relative independence of tasks in different threshold coding. Finally, the application and simulation analysis of power grid data based on the SPIHT compression algorithm, the construction of power grid data model simulation, and the composition of two-dimensional power grid data images are carried out. Secondly, the obtained 2D power grid data image is compressed by the SPIHT algorithm and improved SPIHT algorithm, respectively, and the compression effect of the two algorithms on the power grid data image is compared. When the bit rate is 0.5, the compression effect of the improved SPIHT algorithm is 13.6506. When the bit rate is 1, the compression effect of the improved SPIHT algorithm is 18.9287. The results show that the improved SPIHT algorithm can compress the grid data to obtain better grid image quality.
Variational approach to Kirchhoff-type second-order impulsive differential systems
Authors: Yao Wangjin , Zhang Huiping
Published: August 2024

In this study, we consider a Kirchhoff-type second-order impulsive differential system with the Dirichlet boundary condition and obtain the existence and multiplicity of solutions to the impulsive problem via variational methods.
Experimental and numerical investigation of crash performances of additively manufactured novel multi-cell crash box made with CF15PET, PLA, and ABS
Authors: Kopar Mehmet , Yıldız Ali Rıza
Published: August 2024

In this study, a novel multi-cell crash box was designed and produced using 15 % short carbon fiber reinforced polyethylene terephthalate (CF15PET), polylactic acid (PLA), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) filaments using one of the additive manufacturing methods, the melt deposition method (FDM). All structures’ maximum force and energy absorption performances have been investigated. As a result of the test, it was determined that the crash box, which best meets the high energy absorption and folding properties, one of the expected features in crash boxes, has parts manufactured using ABS and CF15PET materials. According to the test result, it was found that the energy absorption of the ABS crash box is 11 % higher than CF15PET and approximately 4.5 % higher than PLA. It has been determined that the maximum force response value of the ABS box is 5 % higher than CF15PET and 12 % higher than PLA. As a result, it has been determined that ABS and CF15PET materials can be used in crash boxes and can form an idea about the design and test result by designing and analyzing crash boxes using finite element programs.
Effect of concentration on PVA solutions and its usage in recycling carbon fiber/polyamide 12 prepregs
Authors: Altınbay Aylin
Published: August 2024

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) is a biodegradable synthetic polymer with high chemical resistance and excellent mechanical and oxygen barrier properties. Besides these superior properties, it is water-soluble, which provides its wide usage. However, its solubility depends on some factors. Although the temperature is one of these factors and increasing temperature could promote solubility, there is a solubility limit according to hydrolysis degree. In this study, PVA solutions at various concentrations were obtained by mixing fully hydrolyzed PVA1500 and water. Solutions were characterized by density, surface contact angle and dynamic viscosity measurements. Then, solvent casting was used to obtain films, and physical and mechanical properties were determined. Tensile test results showed optimum values at 10–12.5 wt.% PVA concentration. Also, vacuum drying changed the mechanical behavior of films significantly at all concentrations. While ultimate tensile stress values almost doubled and modulus values increased approximately three times, elongations critically decreased. Solutions were also subjected to waste carbon fiber (CF)/polyamide 12 (PA12) prepregs for recycling purposes. Lay-up and compression molding processes were applied to produce CF/PA12 composites. It was seen that mechanical results were significantly increased with increasing PVA concentration.
The effect of extralinguistic variables on verb selection in Italian requests
Authors: Staszkiewicz Bruno , Czerwionka Lori , Concu Valentina
Published: August 2024

Politeness relies on interlocutors’ frames, which are cognitive concepts that include a linguistic expression and extralinguistic variables. Politeness research has highlighted the importance of extralinguistic variables on speakers’ linguistic choices. Despite many studies that touch on these topics, questions about the comparative importance of contextual variables and the joint effect of them on speakers’ utterances remain unanswered. To examine these questions, a quantitative approach using a conditional inference tree was employed to investigate the influence of power, distance, and imposition on the use of verb forms in requests in Italian. Verb forms were selected as the dependent variable because they are essential for performing speech acts and they can be placed on a politeness continuum. Considering the importance and hierarchical relationship of the predictor variables of power, distance, and imposition, the results indicated that the three variables were predictors of verb form. While power was the main predictor, the effect of distance and imposition depended on whether the other variables were considered, showing a varying and complex effect of contextual variables. The findings enhance the understanding of Italian politeness, and represent the complex calculations that speakers make when selecting linguistic forms by considering interacting contextual variables.
Determining the kinetic and optimum characteristics of glucose oxidase immobilized on polyurethane
Authors: Kalay Şaban
Published: August 2024

Objectives

The primary aim of this study is to immobilize glucose oxidase (GOX) as a model enzyme using a simple and efficient method without the use of any toxic chemicals. This will enable the multiple reusability of GOX, thereby reducing the process cost. Furthermore, the objective is to determine the kinetic, optimum pH, and temperature parameters in comparison to soluble GOX.

Methods

For immobilization, GOX at a concentration of 5 mg/mL was mixed with an equal volume of hypol prepolymer in a beaker. Immobilization was achieved by the formation of amide bonds between –NH2 groups on the enzyme surface and the prepolymer. The activities of polyurethane foam (PUF)-immobilized and soluble GOX were monitored using horse radish peroxidase enzyme as a second enzyme. 2,2′-Azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid radical ABTS+ generated as a result of the enzymatic reactions was detected at 420 nm.

Results

The kinetic parameters for soluble GOX were Km=9.39 ± 1.13 mM and Vmax=9.14 ± 0.45 A.U sec−1 × 10−4, while for PUF-immobilized GOX Km=10.04 ± 1.30 mM and Vmax=9.09 ± 0.49 A.U sec−1 × 10−4. PUF-immobilized GOX displayed high performance during reuse experiments. PUF-immobilization led to the activity at higher temperatures and over a wide pH range compared to its soluble counterpart.

Conclusions

GOX was successfully immobilized for the first time using PUF. This technique can be used in the healthcare and food sectors as well as in biosensor applications. In the future, when successfully applied to many enzymes of industrial value, it could offer significant advantages.
Dynamic light scattering study on quercetin/surfactant/solvent system
Authors: Güzeloğlu Alişan , Bhattarai Ajaya , Wilczura-Wachnik Hanna
Published: August 2024

The Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) measurements have been performed on quercetin with dioctyl sodium sulfosuccinate (Aerosol OT, AOT), Triton X-100 in 1,4-dioxane, as well as on the solutions containing water in the core of suitable reversed micelles; the water amount was calculated using the relation R = [H2O]/[surfactant], defining the ratio of water to surfactant concentration. The amount of quercetin in the studied systems as well as the effects of the water presence on the size of the micelles and diffusion effects were discussed. A significant effect of the research was the determination of the maximum amount of water that can be introduced into the AOT micelles in the studied systems.
Historical and archaeogenomic identification of high-status Englishmen at Jamestown, Virginia
Authors: Owsley Douglas W. , Bruwelheide Karin S. , Harney Éadaoin , Mallick Swapan , Rohland Nadin , Olalde Iñigo , Barca Kathryn G. , Ramsey Andrew J. , Hull-Walski Deborah A. , Kelso William M. , May Jamie E. , Broomandkhoshbacht Nasreen , Ferry Matthew , Lawson Ann Marie , Michel Megan , Oppenheimer Jonas , Stewardson Kristin , Zalzala Fatma , Simon Vicki E. , Givens David M. , Lavin Michael D. , Reich David E.
Published: August 2024

The authors report on ancient DNA data from two human skeletons buried within the chancel of the 1608–1616 church at the North American colonial settlement of Jamestown, Virginia. Available archaeological, osteological and documentary evidence suggest that these individuals are Sir Ferdinando Wenman and Captain William West, kinsmen of the colony's first Governor, Thomas West, Third Baron De La Warr. Genomic analyses of the skeletons identify unexpected maternal relatedness as both carried the mitochondrial haplogroup H10e. In this unusual case, aDNA prompted further historical research that led to the discovery of illegitimacy in the West family, an aspect of identity omitted, likely intentionally, from genealogical records.
Unveiling Bishop Teodomiro of Iria Flavia? An attempt to identify the discoverer of St James's tomb through osteological and biomolecular analyses (Santiago de Compostela, Galicia, Spain)
Authors: Pérez-Ramallo Patxi , Rodríguez-Varela Ricardo , Staniewska Alexandra , Ilgner Jana , Krzewińska Maja , Chivall David , Higham Tom , Götherström Anders , Roberts Patrick
Published: August 2024

After St James the Apostle, Bishop Teodomiro of Iria-Flavia is the most important figure associated with the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. He supposedly discovered the apostolic tomb after a divine revelation between AD 820 and 830 yet, until the discovery, in 1955, of a tombstone inscribed with his name, his very existence was a matter of some debate. Here, the authors employ a multi-stranded analytical approach, combining osteoarchaeology, radiocarbon dating, stable isotope and ancient DNA analyses to demonstrate that human bones associated with the tombstone, in all likelihood, represent the earthly remains of Bishop Teodomiro.
Mediating role of social interaction anxiety on the relationship between Generalized Anxiety Disorder and quality of social interaction
Authors: Buhk Alex H. , Babu Pallavi V. , Pritchard Kelsey J. , Capparelli Amy L. , Levine Jason C. , London Kamala
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Experiential social factors of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) have received little empirical attention. This study examined the mediating role of social interaction anxiety on the relationship between experiential qualities of social interaction and GAD status. Method: College student participants (N = 153) engaged in a one-on-one in-vivo social interaction with a novel adult conversational partner (i.e., confederate interviewer). Participants were asked to recount an emotional event in their lives in as much detail as possible. Subsequently, participants answered self-report questions measuring comfort, reluctance, rapport, and mood disturbance experienced while interacting with the interviewer. Results: Participants with GAD symptoms reported greater symptoms of social anxiety and lower levels of comfort while interacting with the interviewer. Participants with GAD symptoms further exhibited greater mood disturbance immediately following this social interaction. Social interaction anxiety mediated the relations between GAD status predicting mood disturbance and level of comfort experienced while interacting with an interviewer. Discussion: More specifically, GAD status was associated with greater symptoms of social interaction anxiety, which in turn, were associated with greater mood disturbance and lower levels of comfort experienced in a social interaction. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
Resenhas
Authors: Augusto Soares da Costa César , Bender de Souza Lucilene
Published: August 2024

Esta seção contem resenhas de dois livros.
Aperiodic activity indexes neural hyperexcitability in generalized epilepsy
Authors: Kopf Markus , Martini Jan , Stier Christina , Ethofer Silke , Braun Christoph , Li Hegner Yiwen , Focke Niels K. , Marquetand Justus , Helfrich Randolph F.
Published: August 2024

Generalized epilepsy (GE) encompasses a heterogenous group of hyperexcitability disorders that clinically manifest as seizures. At the whole-brain level, distinct seizure patterns as well as interictal epileptic discharges (IEDs) reflect key signatures of hyperexcitability in magneto- and electroencephalographic (M/EEG) recordings. Moreover, it had been suggested that aperiodic activity, specifically the slope of the 1/ƒxdecay function of the power spectrum, might index neural excitability. However, it remained unclear if hyperexcitability as encountered at the cellular level directly translates to putative large-scale excitability signatures, amenable to M/EEG. In order to test whether the power spectrum is altered in hyperexcitable states, we recorded resting state MEG from male and female GE patients (n = 51; 29 females; 28.82 ± 12.18 years; mean ± SD) and age-matched healthy controls (n = 49; 22 females; 32.10 ± 12.09 years). We parametrized the power spectra using FOOOF to separate oscillatory from aperiodic activity to directly test whether aperiodic activity is systematically altered in GE patients. We further identified IEDs to quantify the temporal dynamics of aperiodic activity around overt epileptic activity. The results demonstrate that aperiodic activity indexes hyperexcitability in GE at the whole-brain level, especially during epochs when no IEDs were present (p = 0.0130, d = 0.52). Upon IEDs, large-scale circuits transiently shifted to a less excitable network state (p = 0.001, d = 0.68). In sum, these results uncover that MEG background activity might index hyperexcitability based on the current brain state and does not rely on the presence of epileptic waveforms.

Significance StatementIt had long been suspected that electric brain activity is systematically altered in hyperexcitability disorders, such as epilepsy. To date, it remained unclear how pathologic aperiodic activity can be quantified. Kopf et al. demonstrate that aperiodic MEG activity indexes neural hyperexcitability, especially when epileptic discharges were absent; hence, providing a novel non-invasively biomarker that possibly reflects neural excitability at the level of whole-brain recordings.
Transsynaptic BMP Signaling Regulates Fine-Scale Topography between Adjacent Sensory Neurons
Authors: Kaneko Takuya , Li Ruonan , He Qun , Yang Limin , Ye Bing
Published: August 2024

Sensory axons projecting to the central nervous system are organized into topographic maps that represent the locations of sensory stimuli. In some sensory systems, even adjacent sensory axons are arranged topographically, forming “fine-scale” topographic maps. Although several broad molecular gradients are known to instruct coarse topography, we know little about the molecular signaling that regulates fine-scale topography at the level of two adjacent axons. Here, we provide evidence that transsynaptic bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling mediates local interneuronal communication to regulate fine-scale topography in the nociceptive system ofDrosophilalarvae. We first show that the topographic separation of the axon terminals of adjacent nociceptors requires their common postsynaptic target, the A08n neurons. This phenotype is recapitulated by knockdown of the BMP ligand, Decapentaplegic (Dpp), in these neurons. In addition, removing the Type 2 BMP receptors or their effector (Mad transcription factor) in single nociceptors impairs the fine-scale topography, suggesting the contribution of BMP signaling originated from A08n. This signaling is likely mediated by phospho-Mad in the presynaptic terminals of nociceptors to ensure local interneuronal communication. Finally, reducing Dpp levels in A08n reduces the nociceptor-A08n synaptic contacts. Our data support that transsynaptic BMP signaling establishes the fine-scale topography by facilitating the formation of topographically correct synapses. Local BMP signaling for synapse formation may be a developmental strategy that independently regulates neighboring axon terminals for fine-scale topography.
The Hippocampus Represents Information about Movements in Their Temporal Position in a Learned Motor Sequence
Authors: Dolfen Nina , Reverberi Serena , Op de Beeck Hans , King Bradley R. , Albouy Genevieve
Published: August 2024

Our repertoire of motor skills is filled with sequential movements that need to be performed in a specific order. Here, we used functional magnetic resonance imaging to investigate whether the human hippocampus, a region known to support temporal order in non-motor memory, represents information about the order of sequential motor actions in human participants (both sexes). We also examined such representations in other regions of the motor network (i.e., the premotor cortex, supplementary motor area, anterior superior parietal lobule, and striatum) already known for their critical role in motor sequence learning. Results showed that the hippocampus represents information about movements in their learned temporal position in the sequence, but not about movements or temporal positions in random movement patterns. Other regions of the motor network coded for movements in their learned temporal position, as well as movements and positions in random movement patterns. Importantly, movement coding contributed to sequence learning patterns in primary, supplementary, and premotor cortices but not in striatal and parietal regions. Our findings deepen our understanding of how striatal and cortical regions contribute to motor sequence learning and point to the capacity of the hippocampus to represent movements in their temporal context, an ability possibly explaining its contribution to motor learning.
γ1 GABAAReceptors in Spinal Nociceptive Circuits
Authors: Neumann Elena , Cramer Teresa , Acuña Mario A. , Scheurer Louis , Beccarini Camilla , Luscher Bernhard , Wildner Hendrik , Zeilhofer Hanns Ulrich
Published: August 2024

GABAergic neurons and GABAAreceptors (GABAARs) are critical elements of almost all neuronal circuits. Most GABAARs of the CNS are heteropentameric ion channels composed of two α, two β, and one γ subunits. These receptors serve as important drug targets for benzodiazepine (BDZ) site agonists, which potentiate the action of GABA at GABAARs. Most GABAAR classifications rely on the heterogeneity of the α subunit (α1–α6) included in the receptor complex. Heterogeneity of the γ subunits (γ1–γ3), which mediate synaptic clustering of GABAARs and contribute, together with α subunits, to the benzodiazepine (BDZ) binding site, has gained less attention, mainly because γ2 subunits greatly outnumber the other γ subunits in most brain regions. Here, we have investigated a potential role of non-γ2 GABAARs in neural circuits of the spinal dorsal horn, a key site of nociceptive processing. Female and male mice were studied. We demonstrate that besides γ2 subunits, γ1 subunits are significantly expressed in the spinal dorsal horn, especially in its superficial layers. Unlike global γ2 subunit deletion, which is lethal, spinal cord-specific loss of γ2 subunits was well tolerated. GABAAR clustering in the superficial dorsal horn remained largely unaffected and antihyperalgesic actions of HZ-166, a nonsedative BDZ site agonist, were partially retained. Our results thus suggest that the superficial dorsal horn harbors functionally relevant amounts of γ1 subunits that support the synaptic clustering of GABAARs in this site. They further suggest that γ1 containing GABAARs contribute to the spinal control of nociceptive information flow.
The Lysine Acetyltransferase PCAF Functionally Interacts with Estrogen Receptor Alpha in the Hippocampus of Gonadally Intact Male—But Not Female—Rats to Enhance Short-Term Memory
Authors: Mitchnick Krista A. , Nicholson Kate , Wideman Cassidy , Jardine Kristen , Jamieson-Williams Rhiannon , Creighton Samantha D. , Lacoursiere Allison , Milite Ciro , Castellano Sabrina , Sbardella Gianluca , MacLusky Neil J. , Choleris Elena , Winters Boyer D.
Published: August 2024

Acetylation of histone proteins by histone acetyltransferases (HATs), and the resultant change in gene expression, is a well-established mechanism necessary for long-term memory (LTM) consolidation, which is not required for short-term memory (STM). However, we previously demonstrated that the HAT p300/CBP-associated factor (PCAF) also influences hippocampus (HPC)-dependent STM in male rats. In addition to their epigenetic activity, HATs acetylate nonhistone proteins involved in nongenomic cellular processes, such as estrogen receptors (ERs). Given that ERs have rapid, nongenomic effects on HPC-dependent STM, we investigated the potential interaction between ERs and PCAF for STM mediated by the dorsal hippocampus (dHPC). Using a series of pharmacological agents administered directly into the dHPC, we reveal a functional interaction between PCAF and ERα in the facilitation of short-term object-in-place memory in male but not female rats. This interaction was specific to ERα, while ERβ agonism did not enhance STM. It was further specific to dHPC STM, as the effect was not present in the dHPC for LTM or in the perirhinal cortex. Further, while STM required local (i.e., dHPC) estrogen synthesis, the facilitatory interaction effect appeared independent of estrogens. Finally, western blot analyses demonstrated that PCAF activation in the dHPC rapidly (5 min) activated downstream estrogen-related cell signaling kinases (c-Jun N-terminal kinase and extracellular signal-related kinase). Collectively, these findings indicate that PCAF, which is typically implicated in LTM through epigenetic processes, also influences STM in the dHPC, possibly via nongenomic ER activity. Critically, this novel PCAF–ER interaction might exist as a male-specific mechanism supporting STM.
Interdyscyplinarny charakter teologii praktycznej małżeństwa i rodziny
Authors:   Uniwersytet Kardynała Stefana Wyszyńskiego w Warszawie, Borowski Łukasz
Published: August 2024

Pope Francis’ apostolic constitution Veritatis gaudium and analysis of practical theology emphasize the essence of an interdisciplinary approach to research, emphasizing the need for “strong transdisciplinarity” in learning various aspects of the analyzed topic. Practical theology, also known as pastoral theology, aims to respond to contemporary challenges by taking into account both the theological and social, cultural and psychological dimensions that influence the life of the Church and society today. This article emphasizes the need for an interdisciplinary approach to research on marriage and family, striving to cooperate with various scientific fields in order to consolidate the vision of marriage and family in accordance with the natural intention of the Creator.
Niepłodność – epidemiologia, etiopatogeneza, diagnostyka
Authors:   Uniwersytet Medyczny w Białymstoku, Kondzior Sebastian
Published: August 2024

Infertility is a disease of the male or female reproductive system defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Infertility affects millions of people and has an impact on their families and communities. In the female reproductive system, infertility may be caused by a range of abnormalities of the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, and the endocrine system, among others. In the male reproductive system, infertility is most commonly caused by problems with the ejection of semen, absence or low sperm count, or abnormal shape and movement of the sperm. Fertility care encompasses the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infertility. Equal and equitable access to fertility care remains a challenge in most countries.
Privacy in payments: What a CBDC can do better than commercial bank money
Authors: Sillaber Christian , Eggen Mirjam
Published: August 2024

This paper presents the privacy limitations inherent in existing real-time payment systems, such as Eurosystem’s TARGET Instant Payment Settlement (TIPS), and examines the potential of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) to enhance privacy through a design-centric approach. By comparing the data flows in TIPS with the online and offline variants of the proposed digital Euro CBDC, we uncover significant privacy challenges within existing transactional systems. Our findings highlight the complex stakeholder interactions and the loose privacy framework currently governing TIPS. In contrast, with foundational privacy-by-design principles, the digital Euro offline CBDC emerges as a promising solution to bridge the privacy gap in digital transactions. This paper argues that adequately designed CBDCs could augment existing payment systems and transform the digital transaction landscape into one that prioritizes privacy. At the same time, we advocate for a nuanced approach to technology selection and implementation in the digital Euro, emphasizing the need for future research to explore the optimal balance between operational efficiency, privacy, and concise legal frameworks in the emerging era of digital central bank money.
Keratinocyte cancer of the lower limb in the frail elderly – acceptable results for 96 lesions treated with a shortened radiotherapy protocol
Authors: Wong Bradley , Webb Shirley , Powell Madeline , Lyttle Chris , Wilmot Scott , Brown Simon , Partridge Yi Ping , Allison Cody
Published: August 2024

Keratinocyte cancer (KC) is the most prevalent cancer globally, with many patients developing multiple lesions as they age. Surgery is not practical for all patients, particularly older individuals with comorbidities such as vascular insufficiency or anticoagulation, which can be particularly challenging in anatomic locations such as the lower limbs. New radiotherapy (RT) technology and protocols have improved outcomes for patients by minimising toxicity whilst maintaining efficacy. An innovative RT protocol for KC treatment was developed to address this, definitive Adaptive Split Course Radiotherapy (ASCRT), in which the RT course is divided into two phases separated by an extended mid-treatment break with the aim of minimising toxicity. This study investigated the efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction in a cohort of 47 patients from Queensland, Australia, who had 96 KC or symptomatic precancerous lesions on the lower limbs treated with a modified ASCRT protocol. Out of the complete cohort, 63 lesions that received both phases, the complete response rate was 98.4% (62/63), with only one grade 3 toxicity. Six patients developed an ulcer after treatment yielding an in-field ulcer rate of 6.6% (6/91), which resolved within 12-months. These results demonstrate that ASCRT is a viable treatment alternative for high-risk patient populations that potentially reduces toxicity without compromising efficacy. This protocol can potentially be expanded to other anatomic sites where there are concerns for the tolerability of a standard radiotherapy course.
A comparative study of photon beam percentage depth dose of a recently installed varian vitalbeam linear accelerator at TMSS cancer center, Bangladesh
Authors: Chowdhury Md. Riadul Islam , Rabby Md. Fajle , Ahmed Rubel , Akter Mahmuda , Rahman Md. Motiur
Published: August 2024

The commissioning procedure and maintenance of safety precautions before the beam is hit the affected cells are the key factors for the success of external beam radiotherapy. The percentage depth dose (PDD), which must be measured before a linear accelerator (LINAC) is used clinically, is one of the crucial factors during commissioning. Measurements for PDDs were carried out in this study atTMSS Cancer Center, Bogura, Bangladesh, using a linear accelerator (Varian VitalBeam SN: 5199, machine completely new in Bangladesh) with 6MV,10MV and 15MV photon energies for a set of 10 field sizes keeping the same conditions such as pressure, temperature, incremental step, direction, geometry, chamber voltage and polarity. Two ionization chambers CC13 (SN:18616) and CC04 (SN:18635) were used to measure PDDs for the linear accelerator utilizing 3D water phantom (SMARTSCAN)and IBA myQA Accept software. Using a TPS beam analysis tool, PDDs were calculated (Eclipse, Version: 16.1, Algorithm: AAA and PO). The measured PDD curves for 6MV, 10MV and15MV photon beams with above mentioned field sizes and at SSD 100 cm were compared with the PDD curves of the British Journal of Radiology-25. The maximum depth doses (dmax) for reference field size 10 × 10 cm2are 15.0 mm, 24.0 mm and 29.0 mm and the PDDs at 10 cm depth (D10) are 66.80%, 73.55% and77.14% for6 MV, 10 MV and 15 MV photon energies respectively. The results for the maximum depth doses (dmax) and the PDDs at 10 cm depth (D10) are determined to be within the limit. The measured PDD curves and the PDD curves of BJR-25 exhibit good agreement.
The Effect of follow-up and counseling with mobile devices on HbA1c in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Gülmez Arif , Korkut Kurtoğlu Yasemin
Published: August 2024

Objective: Patient and physician cooperation is of great importance for tight glucose control. In our study, the effect of closely following patients with mobile phone calls and reminder text messages on glucose regulation was investigated. Materials and Methods: Patients who applied to our outpatient clinic between September 2019 and January 2020 were included in the study. Sociodemographic Data form, Clinical Data form, and Diabetes Self-Care Scale were filled. The results of the assays taken from the patients were recorded. The patients were randomly divided into control and intervention groups. Mobile phone calls were made for three months with the patients in the intervention group once a week. At the end of the three-months follow-up period, all patients were invited for routine checks. Both groups were analyzed for the change of assay results. Results: 60.9% (n = 39) of the 64 patients who completed the study were at the age of 55-64. Body mass index (kg/m2) averages of the patients were found to be 30.4 ± 4.5. Diabetes Self-Care Scale scores were found to be “insufficient” with an average of 83.7. While the mean glycosylated hemoglobin A1c level of the patients in the intervention group was 8.8% on average, it was found 7.2% at the end of the study and there was a significant difference between the results. Conclusion: Following the patients by mobile phone may have a positive effect on follow-up parameters.
The role and future of artificial intelligence in primary care
Authors: Kaymakçı Volga , Kasap İclal
Published: August 2024

The rapid evolution of technology has positioned Artificial intelligence (AI) at the forefront of innovation in various sectors, notably in healthcare. This review explores AI’s current and future roles in primary healthcare, highlighting its transformative impact and the challenges that accompany its integration. AI currently aids healthcare practitioners in a myriad of ways. Diagnostic procedures have been revolutionized by AI algorithms capable of analysing medical images with precision. Administrative tasks, such as patient scheduling and record-keeping, have become more efficient due to AI’s streamlining capabilities. Predictive analytics, a critical AI feature, plays a pivotal role in pre-empting health complications by analysing extensive patient data. Additionally, AI has significantly advanced telemedicine, offering wider access to healthcare, a crucial development amidst global health emergencies. Moreover, AI contributes substantially to personalized medicine, analysing large-scale data, including genetic information, to tailor treatment plans. Its integration into Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems enhances data processing, improving treatment outcomes and operational efficiency. Despite these advancements, challenges persist. Data privacy concerns, potential erosion of the human element in patient care, difficulties integrating AI with existing systems, and the risk of over-reliance on technology are pressing issues that require careful management. Ethical considerations, including algorithmic transparency and accountability, also pose significant challenges. Looking ahead, AI’s trajectory in primary healthcare is geared towards further advancements, with an emphasis on ethical implications and maintaining a balance between technology and human-centred care. The potential of AI to enhance areas like chronic disease management and mental health care is vast. As we approach an AI-driven era in primary healthcare, this review underscores the importance of merging technological innovation with empathetic patient care.
Overshooting global warming and overshooting fertility decline. Beyond the smooth stabilization paradigm
Authors: Lutz Wolfgang
Published: August 2024

Our thinking about future trends in both population and climate change has traditionally been dominated by the view of smooth trajectories towards ultimate stabilization. But reality turns out to be different: climate warming will not stop at the Paris goal of 1.5 degrees Celsius, but is expected to overshoot, and will therefore need to be addressed through negative emissions (taking carbon out of the atmosphere) later in the century; similarly, fertility decline has not stopped at the replacement level, and instead seems to be falling to lower and lower levels, with nobody knowing when it will stop and whether there will be an upturn. In both cases, societies will need to adapt to rather extreme discontinuities, rather than being able to count on smooth stabilization. Furthermore, the reality that climate change overshooting will require serious mitigative action during the second half of this century brings alternative demographic trends back into the picture as potentially relevant factors in mitigation, since alternative fertility and education trends in the near future will take decades to be reflected in changing population sizes and structures, including in human capital.
Telaah Prinsip Kafa’ah dalam Hadis tentang Kriteria Memilih Calon Pasangan (Pendekatan Kaidah al-‘Adatu Muhakkamah)
Authors: Maulana Arif , Saepullah Usep
Published: August 2024

This research aims to examine more deeply the principle of Kafa'ah contained in the hadith regarding choosing a prospective partner who is classified according to four criteria, namely in terms of wealth, ancestry, appearance, and religion. These four criteria are then correlated with the rules of al-'Adatu Muhakkamah because it is considered that there is a tendency for each person to have the habit of choosing a potential partner according to their temperament, in other words choosing someone who is equal or equal to themselves. The research method used is a qualitative method with a library research approach. The results of this research can be concluded that understanding the hadith and opinions of ulama in choosing a mate must be based on the principle of Kafa’ah (equality) where this is also influenced by the habits that exist in society.
EKSPLORASI BIODIVERSITAS MIKROALGA EPIFIT DI PERAIRAN TELUK HURUN, LAMPUNG, MENGGUNAKAN ANALISA MORFOLOGI DAN METODE METABARKODING
Authors: Widiarti Riani , Hendrayanti Dian , Humaida Milka , Sani Lalu M. Iqbal
Published: August 2024

Penelitian mengenai kelimpahan mikroalga epifit di perairan Teluk Hurun belum pernah dilakukan, padahal beberapa mikroalga epifit berpotensi menimbulkan Harmful Algal Blooms. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengidentifikasi dan menganalisis kelimpahan mikroalga epifit pada makroalga Padina di perairan Teluk Hurun, terutama untuk spesies yang berpotensi menyebabkan HAB sehingga memungkinkan dilakukannya upaya mitigasi. Makroalga Padina diambil secara acak dari kawasan rataan terumbu, dimasukkan ke dalam botol sampel, dan dikocok kuat selama 1 menit. Sampel air disaring menggunakan saringan bertingkat, untuk kemudian diawetkan dan diamati di bawah mikroskop. Analisis eDNA dilakukan dengan menyaring sampel air melalui kertas millipore berukuran pori 0,45 µm menggunakan filtering set, kemudian diamplifikasi dengan set primer 18s v9, dan dilakukan pengurutan basa DNA melalui Illumina iSeq. Hasil morfogenetik menunjukkan bahwa ditemukan mikroalga dari kelompok Bacillariophycea dengan kelimpahan dan proporsi keberadaan tertinggi yaitu Nitzschia dan Navicula. Meskipun kelompok Dinophycea tidak ditemukan pada pengamatan morfologi, namun analisis eDNA menunjukkan 2 spesies yang berpotensi menyebabkan HAB, yaitu Gambierdiscus sp. dan Prorocentrum mexicanum. Sel-sel dari kelompok Dinophyceae mungkin mengalami kerusakan selama proses perlakuan atau pengawetan, namun materi genetik yang terlarut dalam sampel air dapat terdeteksi menggunakan analisis eDNA.
Repair as a practice and action in East Asian languages
Authors: Kim Kyu-hyun
Published: August 2024

The papers collected in this special issue explore ways in which repair/correction is organised in three East Asian languages, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean, from the perspective of conversation analysis (CA).
Jake Tilson: In at the Deep End
Authors: Snell Sue
Published: August 2024

Jake Tilson: In at the Deep End: Quadrille, 2011, 224 pp., paperback, £20.00.
Sally Butcher: Veggiestan: a vegetable lover’s tour of the Middle East
Authors: Phillips Pat
Published: August 2024

Sally Butcher: Veggiestan: a vegetable lover’s tour of the Middle East: Anova Books, 2011, 271 pp., hardback, £25.00.
On the Leonardo quaternions sequence
Authors: Beites Patrícia , Catarino Paula Maria Machado Cruz
Published: August 2024

In the present work, a new sequence of quaternions related to the Leonardo numbers -- named the Leonardo quaternions sequence -- is defined and studied. Binet's formula and certain sum and binomial-sum identities, some of which derived from the mentioned formula, are established. Tagiuri-Vajda's identity and, as consequences, Catalan's identity, d'Ocagne's identity and Cassini's identity are presented. Furthermore, applying Catalan's identity, and the connection between composition algebras and vector cross product algebras, Gelin-Cesàro's identity is also stated and proved. Finally, the generating function, the exponential generating function and the Poisson generating function are deduced. In addition to the results on Leonardo quaternions, known results on Leonardo numbers and on Fibonacci quaternions are extended.
EFFECT OF 137CS ON FATTY ACID COMPOSITION IN COW`S MILK
Authors: Danchuk V. , Midyk S. , Korniyenko V. , Danchuk O. , Ushkalov V. , Morozova V.
Published: August 2024

Lipid composition of raw milk is a key factor determining the nutritional value and technological suitability of the milk. Monitoring the level of contamination of cow’s milk is often not available for farmers, living in the zone of radioactive contamination. 137Cs activity concentration was higher than permissible level of 100 Bq/kg in all the studied milk samples from all the experimental groups of animals from the studied settlements. The highest value of the 137Cs activity concentration of 600 Bk/kg in cow’s milk was found in Stare Selo village of Rokytne district. According to our study, local animals have partially adapted to the seasonal increase in background radiation, and the milk of these cows, in accordance with existing quality standards, is conditionally suitable for consumption. The only factor prohibiting the consumption of this milk is the level of cesium-137 contamination. An increase in the 137Cs activity concentration of more than 100 Bq/kg in cow’s milk causes a sharp decrease in the relative content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (mostly of omega-6 fatty acids) and changes in the omega-3/omega-6 ratio downward omega-3 relative content. Relative adaptation of the lactating cows to the contamination was revealed; however, metabolism of lipids in the mammary gland and the level of lipids secretion are found to be sensitive to the level of 137Cs contamination of milk. Thus, a violation of the secretory function of the mammary gland was revealed, in particular, metabolism of lipids with 18 carbon atoms in the chain. Relative content of linoleic acid immediately decreases by several times with the increasing the contamination level. Concentration of the stearic acid immediately exceeds the physiological limits at the value of 137Cs activity concentration in milk about 110–130 Bq/kg. It gradually increases with the increasing the 137Cs activity concentration up to 270–330 Bq/kg. And then it is being plateaued with the increasing the 137Cs activity concentration up to 600 Bq/kg. On the base of the study of effect of 137Cs on fatty acid ratio in cow’s milk, the C18-coefficient is being proposed to be used as the parameter of damage to the mammary gland of cows in response to a high level of 137Cs contamination, which is calculated as follows: C18c = (C18:0–C18:2)/100). Determination of the C18-coefficient indicates the dose-dependent effect of the 137Cs contamination on lipid metabolism in the mammary gland and catabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid. Duration of the affecting contamination is obviously decisive factor of damage effect to the mammary gland, defining the level of biochemical transformations and initiating of peroxide processes.