bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fāṭima, the Righteous Sorceress, and Ibn ʿArabī’s Notions of Magic and Miracles
Authors: Rašić Dunja
Published: June 2024

Abstract: The prominent Andalusian mystic, poet, and philosopher Ibn ʿ Arabī (d. 1240) argued that God’s friends and sorcerers rely on the same knowledge and principles of Islamic lettrism ( ʿilm al-ḥrūf ) to bend the world to their will. This premise led him to the conclusion, in Chapter 73 of his book The Meccan Revelations (ar. al-Futūḥāt al-Makkiyya ) , that the word “sorcery” ( siḥr ) can be used as a synonym for saintly miracles ( karāmāt ). The present study, however, argues that, in other places, Ibn ʿ Arabī made distinctions between the miracles performed by God’s friends, sorcerers, and prophets. Whereas God’s friends can sometimes be figuratively described as “sorcerers,” sorcerers themselves were never referred to as either “friends” or “prophets” in Ibn ʿ Arabī’s works. This article further examines the relationship between jinn magic and sorcery, to determine under which specific circumstances sorcery was deemed praiseworthy in Akbarian Sufism.
Book II of the Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage: An English Translation Based on a Newly Discovered Manuscript
Authors: Clelland Stewart , Ferguson Paul
Published: June 2024

Abstract: This contribution to Materia Magica presents an English translation of Book II of the early modern German manual of ritual magic commonly titled The Book of Abramelin the Mage, as found preserved on its own in a newly discovered manuscript—The Hague, Grand Lodge Library Kl.MS:XII.C.2. 111r–148v. While two other English translations of the Abramelin text do exist, neither is complete. The present translation is thus the first rendition into English of a longer version of Book II that is different from both texts up to now available in English, and closer in key ways to the version found in the earliest known manuscript
Under-Display Face Recognition System with Neural Network-Based Feature Extraction from Lensless Encrypted Images
Authors: Wu Jia-Lun , Chen Sih-Wei , Lee Chieh-En , Tien Chung-Hao
Published: June 2024

In this work, we present the world's first under-display lensless facial recognition system, which consists of a transparent micro-LED display, a specially designed mask for amplitude modulation, a CMOS sensor, and a deep learning model. By utilizing this kind of lensless optical component, the system can optically encrypt input facial information, ensuring that the light field information at the imaging plane is incomprehensible by humans. Compared to current technologies that encrypt the facial images, the advantage of this approach is that the system never captures any clear facial features, fundamentally protecting user privacy. To extract effective and generalizable features from these human-incomprehensible images, a recognition algorithm based on deep learning model is proposed. However, conventional deep learning models used for recognition systems have a fixed number of classes, necessitating retraining of the model during user registration or removal. To address this issue, we propose removing the output layer of the well-trained model and instead comparing the distance between each lensless image and the registered facial templates in the latent space for recognition tasks. This allows the system to successfully register and recognize new users without retraining the deep learning model. Our experimental results show that this system can provide stable recognition performance while preserving user privacy, with 93.02% accuracy, 97.51% precision, and 97.74% specificity.
Synthesis, Antibacterial Screening and ADME Prediction of Novel Ester Derivatives of 6-Substituted-2-chloroquinoline-3-carbaldehyde
Authors: Potdar Vaibhav V. , Joshi Arun B. , Joshi Himanshu
Published: June 2024

In this research, a series of novel 2-chloroquinoline-3-carbaldehyde analogues (4a-f) were successfully synthesized by employing several acetanilides in combination with hydrazides and acyl chlorides. The methodology yielded compounds with distinct substitutions, thus expanding the chemical diversity of this class of compounds. Characterization through FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and mass spectral analysis confirmed the structural integrity of the synthesized derivatives. The ADME study indicates that the synthesized compounds were found to be possessing reliable ADME properties. The antimicrobial properties were tested against bacterial species with ciprofloxacin as standard drug. These newly synthesized compounds hold promise for further exploration of their biological activities and pharmacological profiles, making them valuable candidates for future research in the quest for novel therapeutic agents.
Thermodynamic and Global Reactivity Parameter Indices for Catechol Based Dipodal Complex with Trivalent Heavy Metal Ions
Authors: Amardeep  , Dangi Vijay , Kumar Pramod , Meenakshi  , Baral Minati , Sheoran Taruna , Arya Brahamdutt
Published: June 2024

Heavy metal ions are of major concern due to their potential toxicity to humans and environment. Schiff base biomimetic ligands have shown immense potential to mitigate the heavy metal ions toxicity. In present study, the thermodynamic and stability parameters for catechol based Schiff base ligand MEC–trivalent metal ions (Al3+, Cr3+ and Fe3+) complexes (where MEC = N1,N3-bis(2-(((Z)-2,3-dihydroxybenzylidene)amino)ethyl)malonamide) were investigated using DFT and TD-DFT approaches. Further, in order to propose the involvement of these metal-ligand complexes in various applications, the conceptual density functional theory analysis were also conducted.
The Effectiveness of SETS Learning Model toward the Misconception Decrease of Tenth Graders on Work and Energy Materials
Authors: Utami Retno Yekti , Rohmi Puspo
Published: June 2024

This study aims to determine the percentage of misconceptions in the work and energy sub-subject and to find out whether the SETS learning model is effective in reducing student misconceptions about work and energy. This research is quantitative research with the type of Pre-Experimental Design using the One Group Pretest-Posttest Design. The sampling technique used in this study was purposive sampling which is a technique for determining samples from members of the population with certain considerations by the desired criteria to be able to determine the number of samples to be studied by taking a sample of class X IPA 2, totaling 30 people. Based on the results of the pretest and posttest, the percentage reduction in misconceptions was 19.14% with an N-Gain of 44% which was included in the medium category. Research data were analyzed by normality test and hypothesis test. The results showed that the normality test using the Shapiro-Wilk test showed that the data were normally distributed with a pretest significance value of 0.842 and a posttest value of 0.520. The results of the research hypothesis using the t-test stated a significance value of 0.000, which means 0.000 <0.005 and H1 was accepted. The conclusion from this study is that the SETS learning model is effective in reducing the misconceptions of class X students on work and energy material.
Studies on reproductive behaviour and phenology cycle of Tecomella undulata (Sm.) Seem.
Authors: Daneva Vijay , Johar Vishal , Pathak Stuti , Rawat Vijaya , Khan Salim
Published: June 2024

The study on the phenology and reproductive biology of Rohida (Tecomella undulata) was conducted in Luttu village, Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, situated at 28.2160 N and 75.2500 E. It was observed that the defoliation started in the last week of November and continued till the last week of March, although a complete leaflessness stage was never observed in any of the trees and the peak period of flowering varied from 22 to 30 days, with the tree in full bloom during 2nd fortnight of April. The flower buds took approximately 20 days from initiation to opening. The duration from the start of bud emergence to the maturity of the pod ranged from 141 to 152 days. It was also observed that the staining of the pollen for viability, carried out in a solution of Acetocarmine (1%), varied from 80.00 to 88.18%, or overall, 82.97% under the electron microscope. The pod setting under open pollination ranged between 7.14 and 17.50%, with an average of 12.40%, while there was no pod setting under selfing. This type of breeding behaviour represents the open-pollinated nature of this particular tree.
Growth and biomass of Porang (Amorphophallus onchophyllus Prain ex Hook. f.) at several ages of oil palm as a shading crop
Authors: Satriawan Halus , Fuady Zahrul , Zulkifli Ernawita
Published: June 2024

Oil palm, with its wide spacing and broad canopy, has the potential to be intercropped with crops that are adapted to shaded conditions. Porang (Amorphophallus onchophyllus Prain ex Hook. f.) is a type of plant that requires shade to grow well. Porang is known as an alternative food crop with a low glycemic index and is included in the healthy food group. This study aims to test the growth of porang in 3 groups of oil palm stands of different ages-3 years, 6 years and 9 years-and compared it with non-shaded conditions as a control. This research was designed as a field experiment using a Completely Randomised Design. The results showed that the growth of porang plants was influenced by shade, with the shade provided by 6-year-old oil palms (N2) and 9-year-old (N3) creating an ideal growing environment. This was indicated by parameters such as plant height, stem diameter, number of leaves and canopy width, which tended to be better. Similarly, nutrient uptake indicators, consisting of C, N, P and K elements, also indicated higher nutrient absorption compared to 3-year old shade (N1) and non-shaded conditions used as a control. The findings demonstrate that the presence of shade from 6 years (N2) and 9 years (N3) oil palm trees fosters an optimal growing environment for porang cultivation.
Effect of methionine on essential oil accumulation and antioxidant capacity of perilla (Perilla frutescens L.)
Authors: Phan Van Hai , Tran Thang Thanh
Published: June 2024

Perilla (Perilla frutescens L.) is a valuable plant known for its essential oil and antioxidant properties. Its essential oil contains bioactive components with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Additionally, Perilla essential oils act as a natural food preservative, inhibiting the oxidation of lipids and other food constituents. Therefore, enhancing both the yield and quality of essential oil in perilla is imperative. This study aimed to investigate the role of methionine in increasing yield, essential oil content and antioxidant activity in perilla. Perilla plants were subjected to various methionine treatments, including concentrations of 0, 50, 100 and 150 mg L-1, administered either once or twice during the growth. Essential oil content was determined using steam distillation, while antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH scavenging assay and reducing power assay. The findings revealed that supplementing with methionine, especially at a concentration of 150 mg L-1 and with a double spray frequency, can augment both yield and essential oil content while boosting antioxidant activity in perilla. These results offer valuable insights for agricultural practices seeking to enhance crop performance and extract essential oils with improved antioxidant properties.
The endocrine basis of the cardio‐renal axis: New perspectives regarding corin
Authors: Abassi Zaid , Hamo‐Giladi Dalit B. , Kinaneh Safa , Heyman Samuel N.
Published: June 2024

The central role of natriuretic peptides (NPs) in the complex cardio‐renal integrated physiology and organ failure has been revealed over the last four decades. Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP), the oldest representative of the NPs family, is produced through conversion of proANP to the mature peptide by corin, a trans‐membrane protease localized to the cardiac myocyte membrane. Similarly, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) is generated by furin, which cleaves proBNP to BNP in myocytes. Though the components of NPs system, their synthesis and target organs are well established, understanding their role in the interplay between the heart and the kidney is steadily evolving. In this context, Feldman et al. (New England Journal of Medicine, 389, 1685) recently described patients with hypertension, cardiomyopathy, atrial arrhythmia and left atrial fibrosis, associated with a homozygous loss‐of‐function variant of the gene encoding corin (Cor−/−). Notably, reduced baseline urinary electrolyte and creatinine excretion have been observed in one of the studied patients. This renal excretory functional impairment could be attributed to the lack of cardiac‐derived ANP in these patients, as implied by Feldman et al. Yet, in this mini‐review we suggest that this aberrant renal manifestation may principally stem from lack of local ANP production at renal tissue, as corin is normally expressed in proximal tubules, Henle's loop and collecting ducts, with locally produced ANP provoking Na+ and water exertion. Collectively, it seems that beside the classic well‐established cardio‐renal axis, the renal NPs system functions as local endocrine machinery in the regulation of sodium excretion.
BMAL1 sex‐specific effects in the neonatal mouse airway exposed to moderate hyperoxia
Authors: Bartman Colleen M. , Nesbitt Lisa , Lee Kenge K. , Khalfaoui Latifa , Fang Yun‐Hua , Pabelick Christina M. , Prakash Y. S.
Published: June 2024

Supplemental O2 (hyperoxia) is a critical intervention for premature infants (<34 weeks) but consequently is associated with development of bronchial airway hyperreactivity (AHR) and asthma. Clinical practice shifted toward the use of moderate hyperoxia (<60% O2), but risk for subsequent airway disease remains. In mouse models of moderate hyperoxia, neonatal mice have increased AHR with effects on airway smooth muscle (ASM), a cell type involved in airway tone, bronchodilation, and remodeling. Understanding mechanisms by which moderate O2 during the perinatal period initiates sustained airway changes is critical to drive therapeutic advancements toward treating airway diseases. We propose that cellular clock factor BMAL1 is functionally important in developing mouse airways. In adult mice, cellular clocks target pathways highly relevant to asthma pathophysiology and Bmal1 deletion increases inflammatory response, worsens lung function, and impacts survival outcomes. Our understanding of BMAL1 in the developing lung is limited, but our previous findings show functional relevance of clocks in human fetal ASM exposed to O2. Here, we characterize Bmal1 in our established mouse neonatal hyperoxia model. Our data show that Bmal1 KO deleteriously impacts the developing lung in the context of O2 and these data highlight the importance of neonatal sex in understanding airway disease.
Preparation of cardanol-based curing agent for underwater drainage pipeline repairs
Authors: Li Yu , Wang Guoqing , Guo Yali , Fang Ning , Li Jingxiang , Li Zheng , Li Junhan
Published: June 2024

The underwater curing agents have demonstrated promising potential in various applications, especially in underwater repair engineering, yet have proven considerable challenging. Here, we report a cardanol-based curing agent for epoxy resin that achieves robust adhesion to steel and concrete substrates both in air and underwater. Cardanol, paraformaldehyde, and m-phenyldimethylamine are selected as the polymeric monomers to synthesize curing agent by Mannich reaction in the absence of chemical cross-linker agents. The coating is completely cured within 46 ± 1 min in air and 54 ± 2 min under water with an adhesion of 0 or 1 and a hardness of 5H. The impact strength, shear strength, and tensile strength of coating on underwater concrete were 9.58 ± 0.41 kJ·m−2, 13.1 ± 0.3, and 10.5 ± 0.2 MPa, respectively, demonstrating exceptional flexibility and mechanical strength as well as favorable hydrophobicity. This work paves the way for the rehabilitation of underwater drainage network for urban infrastructure and water conservancy projects.
Preparation of lightweight PBS foams with high ductility and impact toughness by foam injection molding
Authors: Xu Jiangbin , Xing Jinfu , Luo Mei , Li Tingyu , Liu Bujin , Zeng Xiangbu , Jiang Tuanhui , Wu Xian , He Li
Published: June 2024

Lightweight and highly tough polymer foams play a crucial role in resource conservation and environmental protection. One such biodegradable material that has garnered attention for its excellent processability and mechanical properties is polybutylene succinate (PBS). However, achieving PBS foams with superior mechanical properties remains a significant challenge. In this study, we prepared PBS foams with higher ductility and impact toughness using foam injection molding. The improved ductility of these foams can be attributed to the highly oriented cellular structure along the direction of the tensile load, transforming from regular circular shapes to tubular ones. This cellular structure effectively blunts crack tips, thereby enhancing impact performance. When the mold-opening distance is 0.4 mm, the fracture elongation of PBS foams is 486%, the tensile toughness is 4,586 MJ·cm−3, and the impact strength is 12.73 kJ·m−2. These values are 98%, 53%, and 29% higher than those of unfoamed PBS, respectively. As the mold-opening distance increases, the relative density of PBS foams decreases, leading to a reduction in fracture elongation, tensile toughness, and impact strength. Interestingly, the specific impact strength of PBS foams consistently surpasses that of unfoamed PBS, and increases proportionally to the mold-opening distance.
Four years of natural progressive course: A rare case report of juvenile Xp11.2 translocations renal cell carcinoma with TFE3 gene fusion
Authors: Hu Liang , Li Lina , Li Angcheng , Tong Jianyong
Published: June 2024

Background

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with TFE3 gene fusion caused by Xp11.2 translocations is a rare RCC subtype. This tumor is typically seen in children, comprising 20‒40% of overall RCC cases compared to 1‒1.6% observed in adults. Xp11.2 RCC is associated with a poor prognosis due to both the progression of local lesions and early distant and lymphatic metastasis.

Case presentation

A case of RCC with Xp11.2 RCC translocations and TFE3 gene fusion was found in a pediatric patient, illustrating the catastrophic effects of ignoring the condition. The tumor developed from a local lesion to lymph metastasis (3.2–12 cm) within 4 years. Despite ongoing controversy, surgical resection remains the most common and productive approach. In this patient, renal retroperitoneal lymph node dissection and radical nephrectomy of the left kidney were performed via laparoscopic surgery. The RCC-associated Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusions were identified by postoperative pathology. Microscopic analysis showed the presence of intravascular cancer thrombus, renal sinus invasion, and cancer necrosis. The pathological stages were confirmed as PT3aN1M0 with a negative margin. Follow-up at 5 months showed that the patient recovered without the use of any adjuvant treatments.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the natural course, diagnosis, and treatment of RCC-associated Xp11.2 translocation/TFE3 gene fusions, especially the necessity of early surgery. This case may be a helpful reference for urologists in the treatment of similar cases. It also serves as a precautionary signal for patients who neglect the renal neoplasm.
Diversifying the educator workforce: promising aspects of teacher preparation programs
Authors: LaPorte-Grimes Laurel A. , Parham Marcquis T.
Published: June 2024

The present study contributes to the body of work addressing the need for diversity in the educator workforce. The study examines six grant-funded projects designed to increase the diversity of teacher candidates, support these candidates through licensure, and ultimately increase the diversity of the teacher workforce in Ohio. Data was gathered from Principal Investigators and other project members via mid-year and end-of-year interviews (N = 12) and analyzed using qualitative coding methods. The analysis surfaced common themes among program features, program implementation, and challenges programs encountered. The findings suggest that effective programs to diversify the educator workforce could benefit from program development that makes intentional use of several key strategies: (1) collaborative processes and relationships; (2) programmatic and individual student support; (3) targeted, personal approaches to recruitment; (4) intentional planning for financial sustainability (including the use of more than one funding stream); and (5) the creation of specific pathways from high school to career. This study further identified both internal and external systemic challenges programs encountered and highlighted effective methods for resolving issues where possible, while also identifying challenges that remained intractable.
Numerical and experimental investigation of the effect of heat input on weld bead geometry and stresses in laser welding
Authors: Turan Mehmet K. , Yuce Celalettin , Karpat Fatih
Published: June 2024

Nowadays, laser welding is a powerful joining method. Thanks to the advantages it has, its usage area is increasing day by day. However, getting the desired result from the laser welding process is possible with the proper welding parameter selections. Otherwise, many problems may be encountered, including significantly incomplete penetration. For this reason, parameter selection has been discussed in many studies in the literature. At this point, validated numerical simulation models are precious. Since these models reduce experiment costs and save time. Especially numerical simulation of the structural steel, which is the one of most used materials, is crucial. In this study, the effects of laser power (LP) and welding speed (WS), which are among the vital parameters of laser welding, on weld width and stress were investigated numerically and statistically. Structural steel was selected as the material, and the Taguchi method was carried out for the simulation case study design. Simufact Welding software was used for simulation studies, and simulations were carried out thermomechanical. Thus, more realistic results were obtained via the thermomechanical method. One of the simulation results was verified through an experimental study. The results were evaluated with signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio and a statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA), and as a result of the study, it was seen that the welding speed was a more effective parameter, the optimal parameter combination was found to be 3500 W for laser power and 40 mm/s for welding speed to get maximum weld width and minimum equivalent stress. In addition, it was observed that correctly created simulation studies may provide very close results to experimental studies.
Characteristics and observed seasonal changes in Cold Air Outbreaks in Hungary using station data (1901–2020)
Authors: Mikes Márk Zoltán , Pieczka Ildikó , Dezső Zsuzsanna
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we investigated Cold Air Outbreaks (CAOs) in Hungary using temperature data from ten weather stations located near populous Hungarian cities. Our main motivation for performing this research was the fact that in this rapidly changing climate, these events continue to represent a threat to infrastructure and human life, such as the outbreaks experienced in early 2021 (e.g., Texas, USA) and late 2022 (Winter Storm Elliott). In addition, no comprehensive study of CAOs in Hungary has been conducted using station data. The definition of CAO used in this paper is that the daily mean temperature had to be in the lower 10th percentile of the daily climatology for five consecutive days, and we allowed a maximum two-day gap between periods matching the criteria above, after which we merged events together. We found that the number of CAOs in Hungary decreased considerably in recent decades (due to increasing mean temperatures), and the climates of the investigated stations became increasingly homogenous. Developing our understanding of CAOs around the world is important because, due to climate change, their seasonal distribution may change in a way that negatively impacts our life and economy.
Effects of recreational and residential functional land use on urban soils
Authors: Gordienko Oleg , Kulik Anastasia
Published: June 2024

Soils in residential areas of cities are heavily degraded, and the environmentally protective and formative functions are instead realized by the soils in recreational areas (city parks, etc.). The study aimed to analyse the influence of functional land use and the level of anthropogenic impact on the properties of anthropogenic horizons (Au and Aτ) in the city of Volgograd, Russia. In this study, we analysed 50 soil samples from the city’s recreational and residential functional areas under field and laboratory conditions. The study evaluated the morphological aspects (thickness, colour, structure, and presence of artefacts), physical properties (bulk density, texture), and chemical properties (pHwater, salt content, CaCO3, Corg, SOCstoc)of the soils. The anthropogenic Au horizons in residential areas exhibited a clumpy structure, numerous artefacts, and significant compaction. Conversely, the soils in recreational zones contained fewer anthropogenic artefacts, with the Aτ horizons characterized by a lumpy structure. The anthropogenic horizons’ median and mean property values in the functional zones showed significant differences. The acid-alkaline properties of the studied horizons were weakly alkaline in recreational areas and alkaline in residential areas. A common feature of all anthropogenic horizons was the variability in chemical, physical, and morphological properties depending on the functional zone and level of anthropogenic load. The indicators of a specific level of anthropogenic impact on urban landscapes included horizon thickness, Corg content, colour, and structure.
Socio-economic characterization of Portuguese kiwi growers: Facing current social and sustainability challenges
Authors: Alves Fátima , Vidal Diogo Guedes , Bica João , Castro Paula
Published: June 2024

This paper reports a socio-economic characterization of the Portuguese kiwifruit sector. A survey was applied between 2019 and 2020 to a sample of 94 kiwifruit farmers (males 76%, females 24%). 72 percent of the participants declare that kiwi cultivation is a complementary occupation characterized by an intergenerational pattern (25.6%). Almost 70 percent of the orchards are under 5 ha, and 26.8 percent declare that their company does not have a positive turnover. The labour force is mainly seasonal. Regarding the challenges, 21.1 percent struggle with disease control in their orchards and 19.0 percent have difficulty in finding workers. The findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of the socio-economic dynamics underpinning kiwifruit cultivation in Portugal, offering insights for policy interventions and sectoral development strategies.
Advances in detection, prevention and treatment of heart failure in type 2 diabetes: part I
Authors: Cowley Alice , Dattani Abhishek , Brady Emer , McCann Gerry , Gulsin Gaurav
Published: June 2024

Management of heart failure (HF) in diabetes has previously centred on aggressive control of cardiovascular risk factors. The benefits of this approach are modest. In the past decade, however, there have been numerous advances in our understanding of HF prevention, detection and treatment which are particularly relevant to people with type 2 diabetes. This review is the first of two that summarise these advances, with Part I focusing on HF prevention and detection.
Exploratory outcomes of the use of insulin degludec in the real world: data from the Association of British Clinical Diabetologists nationwide degludec audit
Authors: Colosimo Santo , Ruan Yue , Lumb Alistair , Rea Rustam , McDonald Paula , Bain Stephen , Abraham Ralph , Gallen Ian , Ryder Robert
Published: June 2024

Insulin degludec is a long-acting basal insulin analog that is used as a single daily injection in people living with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) or in combination with rapid-acting analogs in basal-bolus regimens in people living with T2DM or type 1 diabetes (T1DM). Registration studies showed benefits of reduction of hypoglycaemia rate and severity compared to previously available long-acting insulins.
The Association of British Clinical Diabetologists nationwide clinical audit of insulin degludec is a real-world data program which includes a secondary care prospective data collection and a primary care retrospective data collection. Data were used to investigate the effects of degludec initiation in people living with T1DM or T2DM on hypoglycaemia rate and severity, change in haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and weight change.
From the secondary care prospective and the primary care retrospective data 432 (of whom T1DM=273) and 3,513 (of whom T1DM=2,040) patients, respectively, were included in the analysis. HbA1c change was non-significant in people with T1DM and T2DM who were switched to insulin degludec due to hypoglycaemia in the secondary care cohort. A significant reduction of 3 and 10 mmol/mol was observed in people with T1DM and T2DM, respectively, when the switch to degludec was prompted by reasons other than hypoglycaemia, and in people with T1DM this was also associated with a 2.5 kg weight gain. There was a clinically significant reduction in minor, severe and nocturnal hypoglycaemia in 62%, 45% and 54% of T1DM and in minor hypoglycaemia in 44% of T2DM in the prospective cohort.
Insulin degludec reduced HbA1c in people with diabetes who were started for non-hypoglycaemia reasons and in people in the retrospective cohort. The extent of reduction in HbA1c was similar in both cohorts, even after stratification for T1DM and T2DM. Overall, insulin degludec resulted in lower HbA1c and modest weight gain in people starting for non- hypoglycaemia reasons and lower hypoglycaemia without any change in HbA1c or weight in people switching due to hypoglycaemia.
On the error of the approximate calculation of double integrals with variable upper limits
Authors: Chernukha O.Yu. , Bilushchak Yu.I. , Chuchvara A.Ye.
Published: June 2024

In the paper, the estimations of the approximate calculation of double integrals with variable upper limits are suggested. The theorem on estimation for the main error term of approximate integration using the approach of substituting the integrand with an approximating function is formulated and proved, as well as the theorem on the estimation of the main error term in the case of calculating double integrals using the sequential integration approach. Estimations of integration errors are obtained when dividing the variable region of integration into rectangular grids, in particular, four possible options for adapting the grid to the change of the integration region are considered. For each of these options the estimations are found for rectangular and curvilinear elements of the grid as well as total estimation of double integration with variable upper limits.
On the Molecular and Immunological Mechanisms of the Transition from Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis to Grave’s Disease
Authors: Burch Camila , Blakley Lanell
Published: June 2024

Autoimmune thyroid disorders, including Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Grave’s disease, represent complex conditions characterized by dysregulation of the immune system targeting the thyroid gland. Understanding the molecular and immunological mechanisms underlying the transition from Hashimoto’s thyroiditis to Grave’s disease is essential for unraveling the pathophysiology of these interconnected autoimmune conditions. We propose insights into the intricate interplay of genetic factors, immune responses, and hormonal pathways that drive the progression from hypothyroidism to hyperthyroidism, shedding light on new perspectives for diagnosis, management, and future research directions in autoimmune thyroid disorders.
The Impact of Grandparenting on Rural Left-Behind Children in China
Authors: Liu Hong
Published: June 2024

The increasing prevalence of grandparenting has drawn attention to the effects of this alternative childcare arrangement on children’s growth. For Chinese migrant worker families, grandparents are the primary caregivers for the left-behind children. This article examines the factors that contribute to the dominance of grandparenting in these families, highlighting the challenges faced by rural left-behind children.
El sillar con volutas del Museo Íbero de Jaén: propuesta de reconstrucción de un nuevo monumento de Giribaile (Vilches, Jaén)
Authors: Prados Martínez Fernando , Gutiérrez Soler Luis María
Published: June 2024

El trabajo presenta el estudio de un sillar de esquina decorado con volutas que forma parte de la actual colección del Museo Íbero de Jaén. La pieza, hallada fuera de contexto en la ladera oriental del oppidum de Giribaile (Vilches, Jaén) fue publicada de forma preliminar en 1998. Ahora, gracias a su escaneo en 3D y digitalización, se presenta un estudio más completo que incluye un ensayo de restitución de la pieza, su análisis arqueológico y una propuesta de datación coincidente con la última fase de vida del yacimiento.
Social Protection Benefits Compatibility and Evaluation Criteria: the Case of Lithuania
Authors: Gabnytė-Baranauskė Vitalija
Published: June 2024

In general, the social protection (SP) system consists of two main blocks: social insurance (SI) and social assistance (SA). The main idea of SP is to leave no one behind, support in times of social risks. However, SI and SA systems are usually developed and improved separately. Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) and European Commission (EC) often emphasise that expenditure on the SP system in Lithuania is scarce, income poverty and inequality are critical, not improving. This raises the question of whether both elements of SP in Lithuania are based on the same criteria to achieve consolidated SP and avoid its gaps. This paper aims to identify evaluation criteria, look at the Lithuanian SP system through its main benefits, and identify whether people are protected. The analysis consists of a literature review, which helps identify evaluation criteria for the SP system, and Lithuanian analysis based on evaluation criteria for 2018–2022 policy years. Three main criteria for SP benefits evaluation are identified: coverage, adequacy, and incentives to work. To make an in-depth analysis of the SP system in Lithuania, the tax-benefit microsimulation model EUROMOD is used to analyse different households’ poverty and unemployment traps and test whether the current SP system contributes to them. It was expected that this research would help to shed a light on how well Lithuanian SI and SA function simultaneously. Results show that SP system compatibility in Lithuania is above average, the weakest part is coverage.
The potential of protective glass from smartphones as an emergency personal dosimeter for members of the general public in radiological accidents
Authors: SHOLOM SERGEY , McKeever Steve
Published: June 2024

The potential of the back protective glass from modern smartphones as a possible material for an emergency triage, OSL dosimeter was evaluated.  Strong OSL signals were observed in samples of glass from phones of different models and brands after irradiation. Some important parameters of these signals were analyzed, namely the OSL decay curve shape, the dependence on dose, and the stability (fading) with time after exposure. Analysis of the shape suggested that the main mechanism of the OSL production is optically assisted tunneling. The dose-response characteristics demonstrated linearity in the tested dose range (0-2.7 Gy) provided that fading was accounted for during calibration irradiation.   The fading after irradiation was described by a universal, two-component function with a primary component due to tunneling and a secondary, thermal component. Dose reconstruction tests were carried out for in-service phones exposed to known doses and then kept in normal usage (phone calls, texts, web surfing, etc.) as well as for out-of-service phones irradiated to blind (unknown) doses. Dose reconstruction was conducted using a custom-made OSL reader without dismantling any part of the phone. OSL-reconstructed, fading-corrected doses were within 25% (worse case) of the corresponding nominal values. It was concluded that the back protective glass can be used as an OSL emergency triage dosimeter (if protected from ambient light by a phone case).
Radionuclide metrology: traceability and response to a radiological accident
Authors: Da Cruz Paulo Alberto Lima , Tauhata Luiz , Da Silva Carlos José , Di Prinzio Maria Antonieta Ramos Ribas , Delgado José Ubiratan , De Oliveira Antônio Eduardo , De Oliveira Estela Maria , Poledna Roberto , Loureiro Jamir dos Santos , Ferreira Filho Alfredo Lopes , Da Silva Ronaldo Lins , Trindade Filho Octávio Luiz , De Veras Eduardo Vieira , Rangel Johnny de Almeida , Gomes Regio da Silva , Dantas Vanessa Bonis , Quadros André Luiz Lopes , De Almeida Maria Candida Moreira , De Souza Poliana Santos , Ruzzarin Anelise , Conceição Dayana Azeredo , De Araujo Miriam Tainá Ferreira , Iwahara Akira
Published: June 2024

In the case of a radiological accident there are characteristic phases: discovery and initial assistance with first aid; the triage and monitoring of the affected population; the release of the affected people; forward the victims to medical care; as well as the preparation of the report on the accident. In addition, studies and associated researches performed in the later period. Monitors, dosimeters and measurement systems should be calibrated by contaminating radionuclide standards. The radioactive sources used must be metrological reliable. In Brazil, this function is performed by LNMRI/IRD/CNEN, designated by INMETRO, which Radionuclide Metrology Laboratory is responsible for the standardization and supplying of radioactive sources in different geometries and matrices. This laboratory has a stock of radionuclide solutions with controlled environmental variables for the preparation of sources, which are calibrated and standardized by mean of primary and secondary methods. It is also responsible for the dissemination of standards and, in order to establish the metrological traceability of national standards, participates in international key-comparisons promoted by BIPM and regional metrology organizations. Internally, it promotes the National Comparison Programs for laboratories that analyze environmental samples and the traceability for radiopharmaceuticals producing centers and nuclear medicine services in the country. The paper presents the demand for 137Cs related to the radioactive accident in Goiania/Brazil and the significant results for the main radionuclides standardized by the Radionuclide Metrology Laboratory by international key-comparisons and national comparisons to provide metrological traceability. With the obtained results, the LNMRI integrates the international metrology BIPM network and fulfills its function of supplying, with about a hundred of radioactive standards, the country's needs in different applications, including attendance to radiological accident.
Development and calibration of a portable detection device for in vivo measurement of high-energy photon emitters incorporated by humans
Authors: Soares Alexandre Barbosa , Arbach Mayara Nascimento , De Lucena Éder Augusto , Dantas Ana Letícia Almeida , Dantas Bernardo Maranhão
Published: June 2024

This work presents the evaluation of the applicability and sensitivity of a portable detection device specially designed for in vivo measurement of high-energy photon emitters in the human body. The calibration was performed at the In-Vivo Monitoring Laboratory of the IRD. The equipment consists of a lead-collimated NaI (Tl) 3”x3” scintillation detector assembled on a tripod. The detector and its compact associated electronics are connected via USB cable to a portable PC. Spectrum acquisition and analysis is controlled by specific commercially available software.  The calibration was performed using a standard liquid source of 152Eu contained in 3 L polyethylene bottles. The evaluation of the system is based on the estimation of the minimum committed effective doses associated to the minimum detectable activities, calculated using current biokinetic and dosimetric models available in the literature. The dose detection limits for selected radionuclides of interest in an emergency scenario have shown to be far below 1 mSv allowing the system to be useful in accident situations.
Desenvolvimento de um modelo para registro e avaliação de incidentes em radioterapia
Authors: Ribeiro André Luis de Carvalho , Da Silva Teixeira Flávia Cristina , De Paiva Eduardo
Published: June 2024

A radioterapia vem apresentando constantes aprimoramentos para se tornar cada vez mais eficaz, contribuindo, assim, para aumentar as chances de cura dos pacientes. Neste sentido, a aprendizagem com incidentes ganhou grande destaque durante sucessivas abordagens sobre a segurança do paciente. O objetivo deste trabalho é desenvolver uma ferramenta para registro e análise de incidentes em radioterapia e aplica-la em clínicas do Rio de Janeiro com o intuito de implementar a política de gestão da qualidade e de cultura de segurança. Foram realizadas etapas que envolveram a análise dos mapas de processo para o enriquecimento do sistema (chamado de Sistema Padronizado de Incidentes em Radioterapia - SPIRad) que já conta com uma versão em formulário físico. A proposta é a conversão deste formulário para uma ferramenta digital para ser utilizada por meio de intranet. A etapa seguinte é a aplicação da mesma em clínicas de radioterapia do Rio de Janeiro e a avaliação dos resultados obtidos com o objetivo de possíveis aprimoramentos através de feedbacks dos usuários.
Environmental quality evaluation of soil from Pernambuco’s recreational park
Authors: Fonseca Cássia K. L. , Souza Vivianne L. B. , Melo Bárbara E. S. , Barbosa Sandra Dias , Silva Waldecy Ananias da
Published: June 2024

Parks and squares are inserted in urban environments, influenced by diverse anthropogenic sources of chemical elements. The Apipucos Maximiano Campos Park, located in the Apipucos neighborhood, in the city of Recife - PE aims to promote entertainment for the local population. The park was previously a green area containing scrap metal, which was removed to build the park, but it is still affected by vehicular emissions. Considering the possibility of negative health effects caused by local contaminants, the concentration of Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn in the soil of the Apipucos Maximiano Campos Park was determined by the Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) technique. Fifteen soil samples were collected at three locations, under the vertical projection of tree crowns. Before the analysis, the samples were dried in an oven at 60 °C for 24 hours and pulverized. The concentrations of Cu, Fe, and Zn were characteristic of polluted soil; and the concentrations of Ni and Pb were higher than the reference values for Pernambuco. These contaminations probably derived from the previously deposited scrap metal. Such levels of contaminants demand public actions to avoid a negative effect on the health of the local population and to the environment.
Analysis of lenses absorbed dose in head CT scan with the use of bismuth shielding
Authors: Santos Fernanda Stephanie , Santana Priscila do Carmo , Mourão Arnaldo Prata
Published: June 2024

Computed Tomography (CT) has become an important tool to diagnose cancer and to obtain additional information for different clinical questions. However, CT scan usually requires a higher radiation exposure than a conventional radiography examination. Head CT scans are used for diagnosis of traumatic head injuries, infections and other diseases with instability. Based on this information, it was studied the dose variation deposited in the lenses and in nearby organs, such as: pharynx, hypophysis and salivary gland with and without the use of bismuth shield. In this study a head CT scan was performed on anthropomorphic male phantom using a GE scanner. Dose measurements have been performed by using radiochromic film strips to register the individual doses in the organs of interest. The results show us that the lenses had a reduction of 26% of the dose with the use of the bismuth shield.
Adaptation of the QUANUM platform for internal audits in nuclear medicine in Brazil
Authors: De Paula Vitor Moura , De Sá Lidia Vasconcellos , Pinheiro Mônica Araújo , Lima Gabriela I , De Andrade Edson Ramos , Gonçalves Magalhães Luis Alexandre , Loureiro Marcelo C
Published: June 2024

Audit is an ongoing review of all processes involving a particular service to ensure that each process is developed systematically and in accordance with specific regulations. The IAEA developed an internal audit process named QUANUM - Quality Management Audits in Nuclear Medicine being available at their website. This tool offers support to management quality audits, assisting teams in the evaluation of quality management system. QUANUM tool was developed based on the European Community guidelines and international recommendations. In order to be better applied in a country, national regulations should be followed not to generate non-conformities. Based on the current legal framework a review was performed under light of the normative items from national regulators which should be in compliance with the international recommendations. Also, national requirements not addressed by international recommendations were considered. Therefore, a single model was designed to meet both requirements, national and international standards and regulations. An Internal Audit model was elaborated which helps to quantify risk levels concerned to the process as a whole suggesting that Brazilian national regulations meet about 60 % of the international QUANUM requirements. After adaptation, a unified internal audit model was modeled where 32% are requirements from Brazilian standards, 27% from international recommendations and 41% for both Brazilian standards and international requirements. This tool systematizes and improves the quality management policy and, at last, be able to attend the Regulatory Audit, minimizing non-conformities with positive impacts on the services offered to the population.
Analysis of the external doses received by workers involved in the mitigation of the Goiania radiological accident
Authors: Mauricio Claudia Lucia de Pinho
Published: June 2024

In 1987, after identification that a stolen head of a Cs-137 radiotherapy irradiator was violated, it starts, in Goiania, the screening of the involved persons, the decontamination and the collection of the radioactive waste. The contaminated areas were isolated and the professionals who worked within these areas received individual film monitors and TLD rings, provided by the Instituto de Radioproteção e Dosimetria of the Comissão Nacional de Energia Nuclear (IRD/CNEN), to evaluate their external dose. The aim of this paper is to present a statistical analysis of the external occupational doses received by this intervention staff. The used data were extracted from the Goiania accident database, maintained by IRD/CNEN. A total of 1091 workers were monitored, some for only a few days and others for almost one year. All the total external occupational doses, received during these works, including the management of the radioactive waste, were lower than the individual annual dose limit of 50 mSv for practices. Only one dose exceeded the value of 20 mSv. Their estimated mean effective doses were about 1.0 mSv, which is the annual dose limit for public exposure. About 80% of the doses were lower than this value. The measured extremity doses were even lower than the measured whole body doses values.