bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PHYSICAL EUSTRESSORS AS POTENTIAL TOOLS TO IMPROVE CROP STRESS TOLERANCE (REVIEW)
Authors: Bakhchevnikov Oleg N. , Braginets Sergey V. , Kravchenko Nina S. , Pakhomov Viktor I.
Published: March 2024

Background. The processes occurring in plants and their seeds under stress, as well as the defense mechanisms used by plants under stress, are poorly understood, which makes it impossible to use them to increase yields.

Purpose. Review and analysis of scientific publications, devoted to the phenomenon of stress memory acquired by plants as a result of physical stressors on their seeds and possible applications of this phenomenon in plant growing and crop breeding.

Materials and methods. A selection and systematic review of scientific articles on the research topic for the period 2016-2023 was performed. The study consisted of the following steps: research literature search, evaluation and selection, data synthesis and analysis.

Results. The use of hormetic effects of physical agents to stimulate seed germination of crops is effective. Responses to abiotic stresses could be 'trained' by priming so that the plant becomes better able to cope with later stress. Evidence of short-term and transgenerational memory formation following plant priming has been obtained. An epigenetic mechanism for the formation of long-term stress memory in plants as a result of a physical eustressor has been identified. The eustressor induces specific epigenetic marks associated with environmental adaptation, forming a new stress-resistant plant phenotype. Physical eustressors have the potential to impart stress tolerance to crops to enhance phenotypic characteristics to prevent yield losses.

Conclusion. Seed treatment with physical stressors builds plant tolerance and memory to abiotic stresses, but scientific evidence on this issue is incomplete and sketchy. The understanding and application of stress memory for breeding purposes is currently limited, but it has great potential for the development of new crop varieties.
Metabolic accompaniment of plasma lipoproteins profile in persons with maladaptation
Authors: Tsymbryla Volodymyr , Barylyak Liliya , Żukow Xawery , Popovych Igor
Published: March 2024

Background. During the implementation of the project "The relationship between the lipoprotein profile of the blood plasma and the parameters of the neuroendocrine-immune complex, and the influence of the factors of the Truskavets’ spa on them", we first divided observed cohort into 5 homogeneous groups that differed from each other by 6 discriminant variables. The purpose of this study is to identify the metabolic accompaniment of plasma lipoprotein profile in the same persons.

Material and research methods. The object of observation were 41 volunteers: 20 women aged 30-76 years and 21 men aged 24-69 years without clinical diagnose but with dysfunction of neuroendocrine-immune complex and dysmetabolism. We estimated lipoprotein profile of plasma, determined the levels of the proinflammatory cytokines, parameters of lipid peroxidation as well as routine biochemical and paraclinical parameters.

Results. The patients with increased, normal and decreased levels of Dobiásová’s&Frohlich’s Atherogenic Index of Plasma (D&FAIP) are characterized, together with levels of Triglycerides and HDLP Cholesterol by definition, by specific constellations of levels of IL-6, IL-1, Diene conjugates, Malondialdehyde, Katalase, Glucose, and Alanine aminotransferase (classification accuracy is 98.8%). A close canonical correlation was found between the parameters of the plasma lipoprotein profile, on the one hand, and metabolism and erythroon, on the other (R=0.920).

Conclusion. Atherogenic, normal and anti-atherogenic blood plasma is characterized by specific levels of markers of inflammation, lipid peroxidation, cytolysis and erythroon.
Multifaced therapies in the care of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder - A literature review
Authors: Sztybór Mateusz , Nowak Gabriela , Głogowska Karen , Piątkiewicz Julia , Żmijewska Aleksandra , Maleszewska Monika , Krzyżanowska Maria , Wojtas Mikołaj , Kapica Marcin , Kopacz Wojciech
Published: March 2024

Autism is an abnormality in functioning that influences how people interact with others, communicate, learn new things and behave. According to the WHO, autism already occurs in 1 in 100 children. Although it affects people of all ages it is mostly diagnosed in children. This makes the essence of autism management to support the child's development. Autism Syndrome Disorder (ASD) has become a target of research and interest in modern medicine, especially psychiatry pediatrics and psychology. Help and support during the development of a child with ASD have big influence in alleviating symptoms and developing functioning. The multitude of modern therapies makes it available to provide comprehensive care for the child. According to a recent analysis, therapies such as music therapy have positive effects. They can boost a child's communication, interpersonal, social and language skills. They improve the child's overall functioning which converts into his quality of life in adulthood. The profits of occupational or individual therapies are a new case in the context of people with ASD. It requires more extensive randomized studies, but it offers great hope and optimism for the improvement of therapies and a multifaceted support system for children with ASD.
O processo de incorporação da identidade do cirurgião: etnografia do ensino em centro cirúrgico
Authors: Silva Nathalia Ramos da , Aisengart Rachel
Published: March 2024

Este artigo objetiva apresentar e refletir sobre o processo de transmissão de conhecimentos e habilidades técnicas para residentes de cirurgia geral em um hospital público universitário na cidade do Rio de Janeiro. A partir de etnografia em centro cirúrgico – setor em que os residentes aprendem, na prática, como conduzir uma cirurgia –, foi realizada uma pesquisa qualitativa, com observação participante totalizando 137 horas, com entrevistas com cirurgiões, professores e residentes em cirurgia. As interações entre cirurgiões gerais, residentes de cirurgia geral, anestesistas, equipe de enfermagem e pacientes foram objeto de reflexão. O estudo evidenciou o processo de incorporação da identidade de cirurgião geral pelo residente, quando o estudante passa a habitar um novo mundo, adquire uma nova linguagem e um posicionamento na estrutura hierárquica do contexto institucional. O aprendizado inclui o aperfeiçoamento técnico, a incorporação de uma performance específica e os rituais presentes para a realização de cirurgias.
Factors influencing Frey syndrome after parotidectomy with acellular dermal matrix
Authors: Chai Xian-Da , Jiang Huan , Tang Ling-Ling , Zhang Jing , Yue Long-Fei
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Frey syndrome, also known as ototemporal nerve syndrome or gustatory sweating syndrome, is one of the most common complications of parotid gland surgery. This condition is characterized by abnormal sensations in the facial skin accompanied by episodes of flushing and sweating triggered by cognitive processes, visual stimuli, or eating.

AIM

To investigate the preventive effect of acellular dermal matrix (ADM) on Frey syndrome after parotid tumor resection and analyzed the effects of Frey syndrome across various surgical methods and other factors involved in parotid tumor resection.

METHODS

Retrospective data from 82 patients were analyzed to assess the correlation between sex, age, resection sample size, operation time, operation mode, ADM usage, and occurrence of postoperative Frey syndrome.

RESULTS

Among the 82 patients, the incidence of Frey syndrome was 56.1%. There were no significant differences in sex, age, or operation time between the two groups (P > 0.05). However, there was a significant difference between ADM implantation and occurrence of Frey syndrome (P < 0.05). ADM application could reduce the variation in the incidence of Frey syndrome across different operation modes.

CONCLUSION

ADM can effectively prevent Frey syndrome and delay its onset.
Epinephrine also acts on beta cells and insulin secretion
Authors: Zabuliene Lina , Ilias Ioannis
Published: March 2024

In a recent review examining neurotransmitter modulation of insulin secretion, the significant impact of epinephrine was not addressed. Its primary action involves inhibiting insulin release via alpha-adrenergic receptors, thereby reducing the response to insulin secretion stimulators, through the activation of K+ channels and resulting in membrane hyperpolarization in beta cells.
CODESTRUIÇÃO DE VALOR: definições, tendências e lacunas teóricas
Authors: Farina Milton  Carlos , Leone Fátima Penha
Published: March 2024

Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar as principais produções científicas sobre a codestruição de valor (CDV) e verificar a sua evolução ao longo do tempo, apresentando suas tendências e possíveis lacunas, que possam auxiliar futuras pesquisas.

Metodologia: O desenvolvimento do trabalho pautou-se em uma revisão da literatura, tendo como auxílio a Bibliometria, com a coleta na base de dados da Web of Science.

Resultados: Apontam que artigos sobre a CDV ainda são incipientes. Trabalhos mais recentes exploram a CDV no ambiente da economia compartilhada, estudam o efeito do showrooming na destruição de valor e como a CDV surge, quando analisada pela ótica dos prestadores de serviços.

Implicações Práticas: A contribuição dada é uma maior compreensão sobre o tema e um direcionamento para novos estudos que colaboram com pesquisadores e gestores para evitar uma perda de valor durante os processos de interação nas relações B2B, B2C ou C2C.
Mulheres do Poty: práticas organizativas das artesãs da Cooperativa do Poty Velho
Authors: ARAUJO PINTO LILIANE , GORETTI DE SÁ BEZERRA LEAL MARIANE , MOURA COSTA MARIA DO SOCORRO , PESSOA BRITO MÁRCIO VINÍCIOS
Published: March 2024

Uma comunidade de prática é formada por um grupo de pessoas com objetivos em comuns, que juntas buscam se aperfeiçoar em determinada prática, visando a diferenciação profissional. Selecionou-se como objeto de estudo mulheres inseridas numa comunidade de baixa renda que saíram de uma situação de coadjuvância para o protagonismo, por meio do artesanato. Assim, o objetivo desse estudo é compreender como as práticas organizativas na atividade artesanal possibilitaram o protagonismo das Mulheres do Poty Velho em Teresina- Piauí. A metodologia adotou a pesquisa qualitativa com entrevistas semiestruturas com três artesãs, tendo como propósito analisar suas práticas organizativas. Utilizou-se a análise de conteúdo para apreciação dos dados. Os resultados demonstram a evolução e reconhecimento das artesãs, levando em consideração os contextos históricos, materiais e humanos. Concluiu-se que a atividade artesanal realizada pelas mulheres do Poty se constitui efetivamente como uma comunidade de prática.
Design of a dual hollow beam optical antenna based on a Fresnel lens-conical lens combination
Authors: Li Yunlong , Zhong Liang , Fu Shuaikang , Qin Yan , Liu Jianing , Jiang Ping , Yang Huajun
Published: March 2024

To improve the transmission efficiency of Cassegrain antennas and
enable the simultaneous transmission of signals with different
wavelengths in the antenna system, this study introduces Fresnel
lenses and conical lenses in front of the Cassegrain antenna at the
transmitting end. Reflective mirrors and focusing lenses are
introduced at the receiving end. A detailed description is provided of
the design process for the Fresnel lens, as well as the impact of
various parameters on the hollow radius when combined with the conical
lens. Based on the laws of vector reflection and refraction,
simulations are performed to track the propagation of light through
the entire communication system and lens pairs, providing transmission
efficiency plots of the antenna system under deflection and off-axis
conditions. Taking into account practical factors such as lens
chamfer, transmittance, Cassegrain antenna reflectance, and material
dispersion, the transmission efficiency of the antenna system at
1550 nm wavelength can still reach 93.45%. The proposed method
not only improves the transmission efficiency of Cassegrain antennas,
but also enables the transmission of different information through the
inner and outer layers of the antenna system.
Eigendecomposition-free inverse design of meta-optics devices
Authors: Huang Yi , Zhu Ziwei , Dong Yunxi , Tang Hong , Zheng Bowen , Podolskiy Viktor A. , Zhang Hualiang
Published: March 2024

The inverse design of meta-optics has received much attention in recent years. In this paper, we propose a GPU-friendly inverse design framework based on improved eigendecomposition-free rigorous diffraction interface theory, which offers up to 16.2 × speedup over the traditional inverse design based on rigorous coupled-wave analysis. We further improve the framework’s flexibility by introducing a hybrid parameterization combining neural-implicit and traditional shape optimization. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our framework through intricate tasks, including the inverse design of reconfigurable free-form meta-atoms.
Multi-mode resonance of bound states in the continuum in dielectric metasurfaces
Authors: Wang Lanfei , Dong Qiao , Zhou Tianyi , Zhao Huijuan , Wang Lianhui , Gao Li
Published: March 2024

Bound states in the continuum (BIC) represent distinct non-radiative states endowed with infinite lifetime and vanishing resonance linewidth. Introducing asymmetric perturbation to the system can convert true BICs into high quality leaky modes which is useful in many photonic applications. Previously, such perturbation and resonance of interest is only limited to a single factor. However, different perturbations by unit cell gap, geometry and rotation angle result distinctive resonance modes. The combination of two perturbation factors can excite multi-mode resonance contributed from each asymmetric factor which coexist simultaneously; thus, the number of reflectance peaks can be controlled. In addition, we have carefully analyzed the electric field variations under different perturbation factors, followed by a multipolar decomposition of resonances to reveal underlying mechanisms of distinct resonance modes. Through simulations, we find that the introduction of multiple asymmetric perturbations also influences the metasurface sensitivity in refractive index sensing and compare the performance of different resonance modes. These observations provide structural design insights for achieving high quality resonance with multiple modes and ultra-sensitive sensing.
Fast and robust demodulation of temperature from sparse sapphire fiber Bragg grating spectra with machine learning
Authors: Liu Xiao , Alsalman Osamah , Liu Bo , Zhu Chen
Published: March 2024

Sapphire fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs) have demonstrated their efficacy in sensing at high-temperature harsh environments owing to their elevated melting point and outstanding stability. However, due to the extremely high volume of modes supported by the clad-less sapphire fiber, the demodulation capability of the reflected spectra is hindered due to their irregular and somewhat complicated shapes. Hence, a mode-stripping or scrambling step is typically employed beforehand, albeit at the expense of sensor robustness. Additionally, conventional interrogation of sapphire FBG sensors relies on an optical spectrum analyzer due to the high sensitivity provided by the spectrum analyzer, where the long data acquisition time restricts the system from detecting instantaneous temperature variations. In this study, we present a simple sensor configuration by directly butt-coupling the sapphire FBG multi-mode lead-out fiber to a single-mode lead-in fiber, and detect its reflected spectra via a low-cost, fast, and coarsely resolved (166 pm) spectrometer. We leverage machine learning to compensate for the under-sampling of the measured FBG spectra and achieve a temperature accuracy of 0.23 °C at a high data acquisition rate of 5 kHz (limited by the spectrometer). This represents a tenfold improvement in accuracy compared to conventional peak-searching and curve-fitting methods, as well as a significant enhancement in measurement speed that enables dynamic sensing. We further assess the robustness of our sensor by attaching one side of the sensor to a vibrator and still observe good performance (0.43 °C) even under strong shaking conditions. The introduced demodulation technology opens up opportunities for the broader use of sapphire FBG sensors in noisy and high-temperature harsh environments.
Enhanced extreme events in three cascade-coupled semiconductor lasers
Authors: Ge Shanshan , Liu Chen , Huang Yu , Zhou Pei , Li Nianqiang
Published: March 2024

Extreme events (EEs) are rare and unpredictable, as have been observed in nature. Up to now, manipulating EEs has remained a challenge. Here, we experimentally observe the enhancement of EEs in a three cascade-coupled semiconductor laser system. Specifically, a continuous-wave optical injection semiconductor laser acts as the chaotic source with rare EEs, which is subsequently injected into a second laser for increasing the number of EEs. Interestingly, we find that the number and region size of EEs can be further enhanced by sequentially injecting into a third laser, i.e., a cascade-injection structure. Our experimental observations are in good agreement with the numerical results, which indicate that EEs can be significantly enhanced in wide injection parameter space due to the cascade-injection effect. Furthermore, our simulations show that the evoluation of the regions with enhanced EEs may be associated with the noise considered.
Design, tuning, and blackbox optimization of laser systems
Authors: Hirschman Jack , Lemons Randy , Wang Minyang , Kroetz Peter , Carbajo Sergio
Published: March 2024

Chirped pulse amplification (CPA) and subsequent nonlinear optical (NLO) systems constitute the backbone of myriad advancements in semiconductor manufacturing, communications, biology, defense, and beyond. Accurately and efficiently modeling CPA+NLO-based laser systems is challenging because of the complex coupled processes and diverse simulation frameworks. Our modular start-to-end model unlocks the potential for exciting new optimization and inverse design approaches reliant on data-driven machine learning methods, providing a means to create tailored CPA+NLO systems unattainable with current models. To demonstrate this new, to our knowledge, technical capability, we present a study on the LCLS-II photo-injector laser, representative of a high-power and spectro-temporally non-trivial CPA+NLO system.
Femtosecond pulse generation from a SESAM mode-locked Tm,Ho:SrF2 laser at 2.08 µm
Authors: Zhang Ning , Zhang Zhen , Wang Yinyin , Ding Heng , Zhao Yongguang , Xue Yanyan , Su Liangbi , Xu Jun
Published: March 2024

We report on a passively mode-locked Tm,Ho:SrF2 laser employing a SESAM as saturable absorber (SA), delivering nearly Fourier-transform-limited 246 fs pulses at 2084nm without any additional intra- or extra-cavity dispersion compensation elements. This represents, to the best of our knowledge, the shortest pulses generated from the mode-locked fluoride bulk lasers in the 2-µm spectral range. Such compact femtosecond laser can be a potential seed source for large-sized fluoride bulk amplifier systems with exact gain match, enabling the generation of ultrashort intense pulses around 2 µm.
High-order QAM NANF transmission utilizing MIMO equalizer integrated with low-complexity decision-directed carrier phase estimation
Authors: Wang Chen , Wang Kaihui , Long Jianyu , Zhou Wen , Zhao Feng , Shen Lei , Li Peng , Yu Jianjun
Published: March 2024

We experimentally realized a high-speed nested anti-resonant nodeless fiber (NANF) transmission with the assistance of the polarization division multiplexing (PDM) and probabilistic shaping (PS) technology. In this system, a low-complexity multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) real-valued equalizer (RVE) is integrated with decision-directed carrier phase estimation (DDCPE), which is robust against the IQ cross talk and a tiny phase disturbance between PS symbols. By using the proposed MIMO-RVEDDCPE, the 60-Gbaud PDM-PS-256QAM signal has been delivered through 2-km NANF satisfying the soft-decision forward error correction (SD-FEC) threshold.
Dispersive wave generation in single higher-order modes of a large-core silica step-index fiber with pulse energies up to 12 nJ
Authors: Arduin Andrea , Rishøj Lars , Laegsgaard Jesper
Published: March 2024

The generation of light in a laser system is constrained by the gain medium, limiting the available wavelengths. We demonstrate in-fiber generation of ultrafast pulses between ∼550 and 800 nm via dispersive wave generation (DWG), in higher-order modes (HOMs). Using higher-order modes enables power scaling, due to their large effective area compared to the fundamental modes of single-mode fibers and dispersion engineering, even in simple step-index fibers. The process occurs in a single higher-order mode, which we excite using passive glass components (an axicon and two telescopes). The output pulses have energies up to 12 nJ at the biologically relevant wavelength of 705 nm.
Crackless high-aspect-ratio processing of a silica glass with a temporally shaped ultrafast laser
Authors: Ren Guoqi , Sun Huijie , Nakagawa Keiichi , Sugita Naohiko , Ito Yusuke
Published: March 2024

In this Letter, we propose a crackless high-aspect-ratio processing method based on a temporally shaped ultrafast laser. The laser pulse is temporally split into two sub pulses: one with smaller energy is used to excite electrons but without ablation so that the applied pressure to the sample is weak, and the other one is used to heat the electrons and achieve material removal after it is temporally stretched by a chirped volume Bragg grating (CVBG). Compared with the conventional ultrafast laser processing, the crack generation is almost suppressed by using this proposed method. The hole depth increases more than 3.3 times, and the aspect ratio is improved at least 2.2 times. Moreover, processing dynamics and parameter dependence are further experimentally studied. It shows that the processing highly depends on the density of electrons excited by the first pulse (P1) and the energy of the second pulse (P2). This novel, to the best of our knowledge, method provides a new route for the precise processing of wide-bandgap materials.
Microwave re-excitation of femtosecond laser tagging for highly flexible velocimetry
Authors: Reinbacher Fynn , Bidwai Sarang , Michael James B.
Published: March 2024

Molecular tagging velocimetry is typically species specific and limited by excited state/species lifetimes. We utilize laser-generated ionization, long-lived anions, and a time-delayed microwave pulse to monitor the tagged region up to several milliseconds. This non-resonant excitation and microwave interaction is demonstrated in a range of gas mixtures. Signal levels show up to 1000-fold improvement, and the flexibility in interrogation time allows for velocity measurements over a large dynamic range (1–100 m/s) with single-shot precision of <5%. This approach has the potential for wide application over a range of relevant gas compositions, temperatures, and pressures.
Effect of varied beam diameter of picosecond laser on Foturan glass volume microprocessing
Authors: Sima F. , Ionel Laura , Jipa Florin , Bran Alexandra , Axente Emanuel , Popescu-Pelin Gianina , Sugioka Koji
Published: March 2024

Foturan glass is a photosensitive transparent material which has attracted much interest for microfluidic applications due to possibility of volume processing by ultrafast lasers. In this work, we have investigated the effect of picosecond laser on volume processing in Foturan glass when varying the beam diameter incident on a lens. To this end, specific laser focusing configurations have been designed using raytracing models and an analysis protocol has been developed in the lens focusing region in order to describe the focal point displacement occurring at the variation of the incident laser beam diameter. The numerically simulated results were explained in association with Rayleigh length and found to be in good agreement with the experimental data obtained at well-defined conditions. Specifically, it was found that the hollow microstructures developed by thermal treatment and chemical etching after laser irradiation were significantly displaced along the propagation direction when the incident beam diameter varied in the range of 1-3.5 times. This approach aims to bring an essential contribution to the field of ultrashort pulse lasers micro and nanoprocessing in transparent materials proving that the laser beam focus position and its size can be precisely controlled with high precision by automated optics for the variation of incident laser beam diameter in predefined conditions. This approach has the potential for laser multi-beam processing at various volume depths using the same optics setup and may even be applicable to two-photon excitation microscopy.
The relationship between a series of inflammatory markers on the risk of heart failure in different gender groups: Analysis from NHANES 2015–2018
Authors: Cheng Ting , Yu Dongdong , Qiu Xingying , OuYang Wenwei , Li Geng , Zhou Li , Wen Zehuai
Published: March 2024

Background

A better understanding of the level-grade inflammation for the development and worsening of heart failure (HF) in different gender groups is an unmet need. We performed an updated analysis on the impact of a series of systemic inflammation markers on HF.

Methods

This compensatory cross-sectional study enrolled participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2015–2018. HF was based on the self-reported questions. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to investigate the association between systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio (LMR), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and HF. For patients of different genders, P for trend was used to analyze potential linear trend relationships and the restricted cubic splines (RCS) were used to describe non-linear relationships. The additive interaction was evaluated by the relative excess risk due to interaction (RERI), attributable proportion (AP), and the synergy index (SI). The multiplicative interaction was evaluated by odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) of product-term.

Results

A total of 5,830 participants from the NHANES database were divided into two groups: the HF group (n = 210) and the non-HF group (n = 5620). After gender stratification, hs-CRP (OR: 1.01, 95% CI: 1.00–1.03), SII (OR: 1.00, 95% CI: 1.00–1.01), NLR (OR: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.11–1.35) and LMR (OR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.65–0.93) were independent meaningful factors for HF in males, there was no non-linear relationship between the three factors (SII, NLR, hs-CRP, all P for non-linear > 0.05) and the prevalence of HF, but we detected a non-linear relationship between LMR and the prevalence of HF in males (P for non-linear < 0.05). An additive interaction of hs-CRP and NLR on the risk of HF in males (RERI (OR): 0.67, 95% CI: 0.12–1.34; AP (OR): 0.14, 95% CI: 0.02–0.24; SI (OR): 1.22, 95% CI: 1.03–1.44).

Conclusions

In summary, hs-CRP, NLR, and LMR are superior meaningful markers for HF in males. SII may be a meaningful systemic inflammation warning marker for HF, which needs to be discriminated against with caution. Only detected a non-linear relationship between LMR and the prevalence of HF in males. NLR and hs-CRP may have an additive interaction in the prevalence of male HF patients. The outcome compensated for previous studies that still needed more studies for validation.
Establishment of reference interval for hemoglobin A1C and other hemoglobin subfractions for healthy Saudi adults
Authors: Borai Anwar , Ichihara Kiyoshi , Bahijri Suhad , Alsofyani Abeer , Elsayid Mohieldin , Husain Haitham , Boraie Sultanah , Sannan Naif , Kalantan Ziad , Jan Majdi , Gassas Maha , Harbi Mohammed , Alrowaili Norah , Almohammadi Mohammed , Zarif Hawazen , Qurashi Mansour
Published: March 2024

Background

The establishment of Reference Intervals (RIs) for Hemoglobin A1C and other hemoglobin subfractions (A1A, A1B, F, LA1C, A0) is of utmost importance in screening, diagnosing, and monitoring diabetes and other hemoglobin abnormalities through the application of high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique. Because there are no locally established RIs for these parameters, it is essential to establish RIs specific to the Saudi population to accurately diagnose and monitor diabetic individuals and identify abnormal levels in hemoglobin subfractions.

Methods

As part of the IFCC global multicenter study of laboratory reference values, a cross-sectional study was conducted in Saudi Arabia. The study involved recruiting a total of 381 healthy adult subjects (>18 years, BMI 28.3 ± 6 kg/m2). Blood samples were analyzed for A1C, biochemical and other immunoassay parameters. The need for RIs based on sex, age, and BMI was determined using the standard deviation ratio (SDR) through a 3-level nested ANOVA.

Results

Based on the threshold of SDR≥0.4, RIs for A1C and other Hb subfractions were not partitioned by sex or BMI, but partitioned by age (<45 & ≥45 years) for A1C, LA1C, A0 and F. Spearman’s correlation between glucose, insulin, and C-peptide showed a positive association with different hemoglobin subtractions of A1B, F, A1C, and LA1C. The RIs were obtained by using the parametric method and the latent abnormal values exclusion (LAVE) principle was applied on A1C.

Conclusion

This study established RIs for A1C and other Hb subfractions for healthy adult Saudis. Age was found to be an important source of variation for most of the parameters including A1C. These findings will enhance the understanding and clinical decision-making concerning A1C and other hemoglobin subfractions. The elevated upper limit of RIs for A1C reflects the high prevalence of diabetes in the Saudi population specially in those with increased age.
Optimizing bandwidth utilization and traffic control in ISP networks for enhanced smart agriculture
Authors: Hassan Emad S. , Abdelaal Ayman E. A. , Oshaba Ahmed S. , El-Emary Atef , Dessouky Moawad I. , El-Samie Fathi E. Abd
Published: March 2024

As the demand for high-bandwidth Internet connections continues to surge, industries are exploring innovative ways to harness this connectivity, and smart agriculture stands at the forefront of this evolution. In this paper, we delve into the challenges faced by Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in efficiently managing bandwidth and traffic within their networks. We propose a synergy between two pivotal technologies, Multi-Protocol Label Switching—Traffic Engineering (MPLS-TE) and Diffserv Quality of Service (Diffserv-QoS), which have implications beyond traditional networks and resonate strongly with the realm of smart agriculture. The increasing adoption of technology in agriculture relies heavily on real-time data, remote monitoring, and automated processes. This dynamic nature requires robust and reliable high-bandwidth connections to facilitate data flow between sensors, devices, and central management systems. By optimizing bandwidth utilization through MPLS-TE and implementing traffic control mechanisms with Diffserv-QoS, ISPs can create a resilient network foundation for smart agriculture applications. The integration of MPLS-TE and Diffserv-QoS has resulted in significant enhancements in throughput and a considerable reduction in Jitter. Employment of the IPv4 header has demonstrated impressive outcomes, achieving a throughput of 5.83 Mbps and reducing Jitter to 3 msec.
Urban transportation system toughness assessment under New Crown epidemics
Authors: Feng Tianjun , Zeng Xubin
Published: March 2024

Since the concept of toughness was introduced to transportation systems, transportation system toughness has received extensive attention from researchers in the field of transportation worldwide. In this paper, a methodology for quantifying and assessing the toughness of urban transportation systems is proposed in the context of the New Crown epidemic. Firstly, the definition of urban transportation system toughness in this context is clarified, and the entropy evaluation method is applied to construct the performance curve of urban transportation systems over time. Then, it is proposed to quantify the system’s resistance, recovery, and adaptive ability in terms of the change in the cumulative amount of system performance. Finally, the three characteristic abilities of system toughness are organically combined to obtain a comprehensive assessment of system toughness. Example calculations and analyses are carried out in four Chinese cities with different levels of development, and the results show that the performance of urban transportation systems is positively correlated with their levels of development, and all of them fluctuate greatly under the influence of the epidemic, but Wuhan has the strongest resistance and recovery ability of the transportation system, and shows the highest toughness, followed by Lanzhou, Changchun, and Shanghai. The system toughness quantification and assessment methods proposed in this paper provide a reference for research on improving the ability of urban transportation systems to deal with multiple uncertainty disturbances.
O sono de Epimênides ao meio-dia
Authors: G. de Campos Rogerio
Published: March 2024

Mostraremos, a partir da cena das cigarras cantoras do Fedro, as afinidades entre a menção ao perigoso sono ao meio-dia (Phdr. 258e6-259d8) e um episódio mítico da vida de Epimênides. Em seguida, veremos as possíveis afinidades entre a descrição da loucura dionisíaca (Phdr. 244d5-245a1) e o tipo de adivinhação praticada por Epimênides de Creta (DK 3 B 1-25). A partir dessas aproximações, pretendemos descrever e elucidar o imaginário comum com o qual Platão elabora sua recepção e assimilação da tradição poética arcaica em sua filosofia.
Thought, Memory, and Being in Plato’s Sophist
Authors: Pasqualoni Anthony
Published: March 2024

Thinking as described in Plato’s Sophist undergoes two basic changes: it progresses by shifting from one to many and it regresses by shifting from many to one. The change from one to many is generative; the change from many to one is reductive. These opposing changes provide a tension for thinking, and like Heraclitus’ bow string, this tension gives thinking its efficacy. Thinking would wander and accumulate endlessly unless it regresses from many to one. Yet, thinking would stagnate if it could not progress from one to many. Both changes are essential characteristics of thinking, and both rest on memory. Memory constitutes the foundation of thought.
Sobre o conceito platônico de to metaxy: teoria da percepção e experiência cultual
Authors: Rocha Rachid Rodolfo José
Published: March 2024

Pretendo neste artigo examinar a noção de intermediário (to metaxy) nos Diálogos de Platão, especialmente em Teeteto e O Banquete. Na primeira seção, examino previamente no Teeteto a noção de to metaxy como o resultado da mistura entre o percipiente e o percebido, de modo que o reino fenomênico pode ser explicado por um terceiro gênero, identificado como to metaxy, originado de certa espécie de dynamis. Na segunda seção, investigo a referida noção no Banquete, proferida por Diotima de Mantineia em seu encômio a Eros como nume. Meu propósito nessa última seção é demonstrar que a apreensão da Forma do Belo em si demanda uma nova abordagem hermenêutica, que denomino hermenêutica cultual, pela qual Platão concebe um liame inextricável entre as concepções mítica e racional das Ideias.
Antibiotic residues and microbial contamination in pasteurized whole milk intended for human consumption
Authors: Londono-Carmona Juan , Blandon-Escobar Sandra , Montoya-Zuluaga John , Betancourt-Chaves Patricia , Castillo-Moreno Sara , Arboleda-Munera Carlos , Vallejo-Timaran Dario
Published: March 2024

Background and Aim: Milk contamination for human consumption is one of the biggest concerns worldwide. To prevent milk contamination, it is important to implement sustainable production practices that ensure animal health and guarantee veterinary drugs have been used properly. This study aimed to detect antibiotic residues and microbial contamination in commercially available pasteurized whole milk intended for human consumption.

Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study on all brands of pasteurized milk (n = 17) for human consumption in Medellin, Colombia, from February 30 to April 30, 2022. Six milk samples of each brand were collected every 15 days, resulting in 102 samples. IDEXX SNAPduo ST Plus test (IDEXX Laboratories Inc, Maine, USA) was used to detect cephalosporins residues to detect beta-lactam and tetracyclines. We detected mesophilic aerobic bacteria and coliforms using Chromocult Coliform Agar (Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany) and Plate-Count Agar (Merck KGaA), respectively.

Results: Beta-lactam residues were found in 24.4% of the brands. No tetracyclines or cephalosporins were detected. Mesophilic aerobic bacteria and coliform contamination were detected in 42.6% and 12.8% of the brands, respectively. No fecal coliform contamination was detected.

Conclusion: This study demonstrated the presence of antibiotic residues and microbial contamination in commercially available pasteurized whole milk intended for human consumption in the study area, highlighting its potential public health implications.

Keywords: biological contamination, cow milk, drug residues, food safety.
Enhancing Dialysis Access Salvage
Authors: Stibbs Peter , Lee Edward , Scott Jason , Thiebolt Christopher
Published: March 2024

Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing hemodialysis are at a high riskof developing thrombotic complications in arteriovenous (AV) grafts and fistulas. Thesecomplications can significantly hinder the efficacy of dialysis treatment, leading to increasedmorbidity and healthcare utilization.Traditional salvage techniques, particularly balloonmaceration, have been the mainstay of treatment for thrombosed dialysis access . However,these methods often fall short in terms of efficacy and long-term patency, prompting theexploration of more effective alternatives.The limitations of balloon maceration, including its propensity to compact thrombusagainst the vessel wall rather than removing it, can lead to suboptimal restoration of flowand potentially contribute to the recurrence of thrombosis.This challenge underscores theneed for innovative approaches that can offer both effective declottingand preservation ofthe vascular access site.Rotational thrombectomy, utilizing devices such as the Cleaner XTTM rotational thrombectomy system by Argon Medical Devices Inc. , represents a significant advancement in the management of thrombosed AV access. These devices employ a mechanical action that actively removes thrombus from the vessel wall, a technique that may address the shortcomings of balloon maceration.This study aims to thoroughly evaluate the safety and efficacy of rotational thrombectomy in comparison to balloon maceration, focusing on its success in cases where the latter fails.The efficacy of rotational thrombectomy has been highlighted in multiple studies, including those conducted at the University of Alabamaand the University of Chicago.The University of Alabama’s research demonstrated potential advantages of rotational Thrombectomy in achieving longer primary patency rates compared to balloon maceration.
A Closed-Loop Audit of Thrombo-Embolic Deterrent Stocking Use in an Orthopaedic Ward.
Authors: Lim Brandon , Mc Kenna Johnny
Published: March 2024

In Ireland, 63% of venous thromboembolism (VTE) cases develop in hospitals. In orthopaedics, 45 – 51% of inpatients develop deep vein thrombosis without adequate thromboprophylaxis. Thrombo-embolic deterrent stockings (TEDS) exert circumferential pressure, reducing venous diameter, increasing venous blood flow, and limiting venous distension. Correct use maximises benefits while incorrect use can cause constriction and distal stagnation.

This audit aimed to assess patient adherence to the correct use of TEDS and whether they had received the appropriate education regarding TEDS. A closed-loop audit was conducted in the orthopaedic specialty ward of a teaching hospital in Dublin, Ireland. Phase one was conducted over two weeks in June 2023 and phase two was conducted over two weeks in September 2023. Each phase involved collecting data from 20 patients. An educational intervention was conducted between each phase to remind ward staff to monitor patient adherence to TEDS and educate patients regarding the importance of TEDS. An educational poster was also created. Phase one revealed that only 11 (55%) patients were wearing TEDS correctly and only 13 (65%) were educated on the importance of TEDS. In phase two, after the educational intervention, there was an improvement in patient adherence and knowledge. 18 (90%) patients were wearing TEDS correctly and 16 (80%) had been properly educated. This audit showed that monitoring and education by ward staff are vital in improving patient adherence to wearing TEDS. Evidence shows that mechanical thromboprophylaxis is beneficial in reducing thromboembolic events. Regular audits should be continued to ensure these behaviours are maintained.
Suboptimal Performance of Microscopic Colitis Diagnosis Codes: A Bottleneck for Epidemiologic Insights
Authors: Giza Richard J. , Millenson Marisa E. , Levinthal David J. , Vajravelu Ravy K.
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Administrative health data could contribute to generalizable microscopic colitis insights, but International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes for microscopic colitis have not been validated.

METHODS:

We identified individuals who received care for diarrhea in the Veterans Health Administration and classified them by receipt of microscopic colitis ICD codes. We reviewed random samples of charts to calculate the positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV). We then calculated the sensitivity and specificity in clinically relevant cohorts.

RESULTS:

The PPV was 0.790, and the NPV was 0.995. In a cohort of individuals with diarrhea who underwent colonoscopy, the sensitivity and specificity were 0.734 and 0.996, respectively.

DISCUSSION:

Alternative ascertainment methods for microscopic colitis are needed because ICD codes have suboptimal performance.
Musyarakah Financing Contribution to The Profitability Of Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI)
Authors: Komala Adeh Ratna , Maryati Mari , Hinggis Fatya Febrianti , Fitri Diana
Published: March 2024

Financing products offered by Islamic banks are diverse, but the most popular one is the murabahah contract. However, the desired contract from Islamic banks is the musyarakah financing because it is the mainstay of the Islamic banking industry. The purpose of this research is to examine the contribution of musyarakah financing to the profitability of Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI). This study used a descriptive and verification method where the processed data were secondary financial reports with musyarakah financing and profitability variables, and Return on Assets (RoA) was used as the indicator. Financial data was taken from financial reports for three years, namely 2019, 2020, and 2021. The data were then processed using SPSS version 23.0 with a simple linear regression analysis method. The results of the study show that the musyarakah financing variable has an effect on the profitability of BSI. In conclusion, musyarakah financing is an ideal product for Islamic banks because it provides the same opportunity for partners to contribute in the form of capital or expertise.
Optimize Productive Zakat to Eradicate Poverty
Authors: Ramadhani Rega , Mahbubi Rafli , Syarah Syarah
Published: March 2024

This article discusses how the use of productive zakat can have a major impact on the macro economy, especially in minimizing poverty that is rife in society in a country. This study uses a qualitative method with a literature study approach. The type of data is in the form of narrative, the data source is in the form of publications, both physical print and online. This paper finds that the optimization of productive zakat carried out by institutions that specifically handle the distribution of zakat, can be one of the stimuluses for assistance to people (mustahik) in need, which can raise the standard of living to be better than before. So that in the end the distribution of productive zakat is expected to have an impact on reducing and anticipating poverty that occurs.
Analysis of Trade Openness and Macroeconomic Variables on Foreign Direct Investment in Indonesia for the Period 1980-2022
Authors: Nisa Khoirun , Khilmi Slamet
Published: March 2024

This study analyzes trade openness and macroeconomic variables on foreign investment in Indonesia. This study uses Indonesian time series data from 1980 to 2022. The data analysis technique uses the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) method. Data were analyzed using data stationarity test, optimal lag test, CUSUM test, classical assumption test, cointegration test and ARDL estimation processed with Eviews 10. The results showed that indirect trade openness has a positive and significant effect on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the short term and long term. The exchange rate (IDR to USD) has a negative and significant effect on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the short and long term. Inflation rate in the short term has a positive and significant effect but in the long term has a negative and insignificant effect on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). GDP has a negative and significant effect in the short term but in the long term has a significant positive effect on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
The Influence of Macroeconomic Variables on Inflation After Inflation Targeting Framework Implementation in Indonesia
Authors: Saifullah Muhammad Ariq
Published: March 2024

The global economic crisis that occurred in 1997, which led to the collapse of the rupiah exchange rate and soaring inflation, made the country realize the importance of economic stability. The problem was then responded by Bank Indonesia by implementing the Inflation Targeting Framework policy. The focus of this study is to observe the inflation condition in Indonesia after the implementation of the Inflation Targeting Framework policy. The purpose of this study is to see the influence of macroeconomic variables such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), Interest Rates, and Exchange Rates on Inflation in Indonesia. The method used is Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) analysis with the research period from 2005Q4-2021Q4. The results found that GDP and interest rates have a positive effect on inflation. While the Exchange Rate has a negative effect on inflation in Indonesia.