bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant extracts and omega-3 supplementation modulate hippocampal oxylipin profile in response to LPS-induced neuroinflammation
Authors: Martin Marie , Debenay Emie , Bardinet Jeanne , Peltier Adrien , Pourtau Line , Gaudout David , Layé Sophie , Pallet Véronique , Dinel Anne-Laure , Joffre Corinne
Published: September 2024

Neuroinflammation is a critical protective mechanism in healthy humans but can become harmful if chronic and/or unregulated, leading to neuronal damage and cognitive alterations. Microglia, which regulate inflammation in the brain, become dysfunctional with age, producing proinflammatory cytokines and contributing to chronic low-grade neuroinflammation. Oxylipins, which are lipid mediators synthesized from fatty acids, play dual roles in inflammation, promoting both initiation and resolution. Limiting inflammation and promoting resolution is a goal that could be achieved with nutrients such as polyphenols from grapes and blueberries, saffron carotenoids, and omega-3 fatty acids from fish, which have anti-inflammatory and proresolutive properties. Hence, this study explored the impact of an 18-day supplementation on neuroinflammation induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice at different time points post-LPS treatment (30 min, 2 h, 6 h). Inflammatory, oxidative and neuroprotective gene expression; oxylipin quantification; and fatty acid composition were analyzed at each time point. Our results revealed that plant extracts (Memophenol™ and a patented saffron extract) and omega-3 supplementation induced changes in the resolution of inflammation through oxylipin production. In fact, the production of proinflammatory mediators in the hippocampus started earlier in the supplemented group than in the LPS group. Pro-resolving mediators derived from EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) were also found in higher quantities in supplemented mice. These changes were associated with increased hippocampal antioxidant status at 6 h post-LPS. These findings suggest that such dietary interventions with polyphenols, saffron carotenoids, and omega-3 fatty acids could be beneficial in preventing or mitigating age-related neuroinflammation and, consequently, age-related cognitive decline. Further research is needed to explore the effects of these supplements on chronic inflammation in the context of aging.
Revisited and revalorized: Technological and refitting studies at the Middle Stone Age open-air knapping site Jojosi 1 (KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa)
Authors: Möller Gunther Heinz Dietrich , Mazel Aron David , Sommer Christian , Botha Gregory Allan , Conard Nicholas John , Riedesel Svenja , Will Manuel
Published: September 2024

The Middle Stone Age (MSA) of southern Africa is mainly known from rock shelters and caves. How early modern humans interacted with their landscapes remains comparatively understudied. The site of Jojosi 1, situated north of Nquthu in north central KwaZulu-Natal, is set within erosional badlands, known locally as “dongas.” This locality offers a rare opportunity to study MSA technology and settlement dynamics in an open-air context. A. Mazel initially discovered and excavated Jojosi 1 in 1991, but did not publish the lithic assemblage. Here, we report on the site’s rediscovery coupled with the first lithic analysis and luminescence dating. This work provides insights into the site formation processes of Jojosi 1 and lithic reduction strategies, raw material provisioning, and landscape use. Our techno-typological analysis draws upon Mazel’s collection of 7529 artefacts while combining attribute analysis and refitting studies. The results show the exclusive use of hornfels and its reduction via platform and Levallois methods to produce flakes and blades. Retouched tools are scarce and comprise mostly notched or denticulate pieces but lack backed tools, unifacial, and bifacial points. The museum collection features abundant small debitage and a strong component of cortical, initial stage, and core preparation flakes. The 48 refitted artefacts and ample small debitage in a spatially constricted band suggest high assemblage integrity with minimal post-depositional disturbance. Infrared stimulated luminescence dating of coarse grain feldspars brackets the archaeological occurrence to ~ 139 − 106 ka. Comparisons with contemporary lithic assemblages link the assemblage to the early Middle Stone Age in southern Africa. We interpret Jojosi 1 as a knapping event aimed at blank production and exploitation of local high-quality hornfels. With little evidence for other behaviours, the site likely reflects an ephemeral knapping workshop on a source of abundant hornfels slabs. Our ongoing excavations in the Jojosi Dongas will be able to test this hypothesis and will work to characterise the technological adaptations and settlement dynamics of the MSA hunter-gatherers in this area.
Knowledge and Perception of Alcohol abuse as a Risk factor of Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) among Undergraduate Students at Lead City University
Authors: Omolara Abdulrahman Aishat , Olateju Bolade , Mercy Oluranti , Sanni Rukayat , Olateju Bolade S.
Published: September 2024

Low- and middle-income countries are experiencing a transition from a preponderance of infectious to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). Many of the behaviours that produce these risks often commence in late adolescence. The study assessed knowledge and perception of alcohol abuse as a risk factor for NCDs among undergraduate students in Lead City University Ibadan, Oyo state.
This was a cross-sectional study using a systematic random sampling technique. Data were collected using the semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire and were entered and analysed using SPSS version 21. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics, and a Chi-square test at p < 0.05 were used to determine the level of association between two different variables.
Of 216 undergraduates, 132 (61.1%) were male, and 103 (47.7%) were aged 26 years and above; the mean age was 22.4 (+/-8.437) years; 139 (64.4%) were singles. Only 69.9% of the respondents were current drink containing alcohol, with 84.4% classified as having excess alcohol use. Moreover, 79.6% were classified as having good knowledge toward NCDs. The most prominent influence sources of alcohol intake reported by the students were friends. it was revealed in this study that knowledge of alcohol as a risk factor for NCDs was found to be statistically significant with awareness of alcohol abuse of the respondents.
These findings highlight the need to develop school-based health awareness and promotion programs at Lead City University. The findings of this study will serve as the baseline data to develop new programs and to evaluate existing programs (if any), as limited data are available related to the implementation of NCDs prevention efforts at Lead city University.
Biodegradation of Plasticizers by novel strains of Bacteria isolated from Plastic Waste near Juhu Beach, Mumbai, India.
Authors: Sharma Khushboo , Nayarisseri Anuraj , Singh Sanjeev Kumar
Published: September 2024

Phthalic acid esters are pivotalplasticizers in various applications, including cosmetics, packaging materials, and medical devices. They have garnered significant attention from the scientific community due to their persistence in ecosystems. The multifaceted aspects of PAEs, encompassing leaching, transformation, and toxicity, underscore their prominence as primary components of anthropogenic waste. In this study, we conducted an extensive investigation to isolate and evaluate bacterial strains with the potential to degrade plasticizers from soil samples collected at JUHU Beach, Mumbai. The degradation capabilities of the isolates were meticulously assessed, and their characterization was performed using established microbiological protocols followed by Sanger dideoxy 16S rRNA sequencing. Four isolates demonstrating notable plasticizer degradation proficiency were subjected to in-depth examinations of their growth dynamics and tolerance thresholds. The biodegradation capabilities of these isolates were evaluated under varying pH, temperature, and plasticizer concentrations. Optimization of degradation rates was achieved through a central composite design experiment. Phenotypic characterization of the isolates was conducted through phylogenetic analysis. The isolates were identified as novel strains belonging to Brevibacillus brevis, Acinetobacter baumannii, Moraxella sp., and Halomonas sp. respectively.The novel isolates were submitted to GenBank with accession numbers OP984197, OQ690115, PP174910, and PP177540 respectively.
A Weighted Function Based on Loss Distribution in Face Detection
Authors: Liu Jialong , Li Guanghui , Dai Chenglong , Zhang Feifei , Zhai Tianya
Published: September 2024

In recent years, advancements in deep learning and general object detection technologies have significantly enhanced the performance of face detectors through optimizations in network architecture, loss functions, and other aspects. However, in anchor-based face detection methods, there remains the issue of uneven distribution of matched anchors for different faces. Existing methods often utilize data-based methods and compensate additional anchors for outer faces to enhance detector performance. However, these methods typically focus on a subset of faces, neglecting the optimization of each individual face during training. Our experiments investigate the distribution of classification and localization losses of faces matched with varying numbers of anchors. We propose a weighted function to alleviate the contradiction, enabling the detector to adjust losses on a per-face basis across various subtasks. This approach facilitates the exploration of hard samples and balances losses across different faces. Finally, our model is validated on the WIDER FACE and FDDB datasets, demonstrating a good balance between accuracy and computational overhead.
Long working hours at midlife and arterial stiffness at older age among white-collar workers followed over 24 years
Authors: Sisti Carolina Braga , Gilbert-Ouimet Mahée , Lavigne-Robichaud Mathilde , Brisson Chantal , Milot Alain , Trudel Xavier
Published: September 2024

Background
Despite the well-documented link between long working hours and increased cardiovascular disease risk, the specific impact of prolonged exposure to long working hours on arterial stiffness, an early marker of vascular damage, remains underexplored. This study aims to examine whether long working hours, repeatedly assessed at midlife, is associated with increased arterial stiffness at older age in a 24-year prospective study of white-collar workers in Quebec City, Canada.
Methods
This study relied on a prospective cohort, initiated in 1991–1993 (T1) with two follow-ups after 8 years (T2, 1999–2000) and 24 years (T3, 2015–2018). Participants (N = 1,629) were randomly selected for arterial stiffness measurement at T3 using carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (PWV). Long working hours (> 40 h/week) were assessed at baseline (T1) and at the first follow-up (T2). Mean differences in PWV were estimated using generalized linear models, accounting for sociodemographic factors, lifestyle-related risk factors, clinical factors and psychosocial stressors at work.
Results
Among participants who remained actively employed over the study period, baseline (+ 0.54 m/s, 95% CI: 0.05–1.02) and repeated (+ 1.54 m/s, 95% CI: 0.83–2.26) exposure to long working hours was associated with increased arterial stiffness. No association was observed among participants who retired between follow-ups.
Conclusion
The present study suggests that working long hours during midlife is associated with increased arterial stiffness, among aging workers. Workplace preventive strategies reducing long working hours may be effective to mitigate long-term arterial stiffening.
Ubiquitin Specific Peptidase 11 Knockdown Slows Huntington's Disease Progression via Regulating Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Neuronal Apoptosis Depending on PTEN- mediated AKT Pathway
Authors: Gao Bai , Jing Yuchen , Li Xi , Cong Shuyan
Published: September 2024

Background
Mitochondrial dysfunction and neuronal apoptosis are major symptoms of cytopathology in Huntington's disease (HD), a neurodegenerative disease. Ubiquitin Specific Peptidase 11 (USP11) is a deubiquitinating enzyme involved in various physiological processes through regulating protein degradation. However, its specific role in HD is unclear.
Methods
To interfere with USP11 expression, adeno-associated viruses 2 containing USP11-specific shRNA were injected into the bilateral striatum of 12-week-old R6/1 and WT mice. In vitro, the inducible PC12 cell model of HD was used in which the expression of an N-terminal truncation of huntingtin, with either wild type (Q23) or expanded polyglutamine (Q74) can be induced by the doxycycline. USP11 was knocked down to study its role in HD. The protein expression patterns in Q74 cells were quantified by label-free proteomics to further explore the target protein of USP11. Detecting the association between USP11 and Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog (PTEN) through Co-IP.
Results
Herein, USP11 was found to be upregulated in the striatum of R6/1 mice (an HD model with gradual development of symptoms) in an age-dependent manner. The spontaneous HD was alleviated by silencing USP11, as evidenced by improved locomotor activity and spatial memory, attenuated striatal atrophy in R6/1 mice, reduced accumulation of mutant huntingtin protein and neuronal apoptosis, and restored mitochondrial function in vitro and in vivo. The results of label-free proteomics revealed a significant change in the protein expression profile. Through functional enrichment, we focused on PTEN, known as a negative regulator of the AKT pathway. We demonstrated that USP11 downregulation promoted ubiquitination modification of PTEN and activated the AKT pathway, and PTEN overexpression reversed the effects of USP11 knockdown.
Conclusions
Collectively, USP11 knockdown protects R6/1 mouse neurons from apoptosis, thereby preventing the HD progression. This is achieved by inhibiting PTEN expression, which in turn activates the AKT pathway. This study suggests that USP11-PTEN-AKT signaling pathway may be a new attractive therapeutic target for HD.
A Scenario for Heart Failure during the Filling Phase
Authors: Pedrizzetti Gianni , Numata Ryusuke , Collia Dario , Pedrizzetti Giulia , Zovatto Luigino , Banerjee Anirban
Published: September 2024

Heart failure (HF) is a life-threating cardiac disease that develops progressively for the reduced ability of the left ventricle (LV) to pump blood into the circulation during systole. HF can also develop in patients with a preserved systolic function, typically in presence of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). This type of HF is sometimes termed as diastolic HF, but its biomechanical origin is still unclear.
This study employs a physics-based analysis of both the LV and left atrium (LA) in selected HCM patients and matched healthy subjects using 3D echocardiography and demonstrates that alteration on the LV side (stiffening) reduces the elastic recovery of the LA. Moreover, the analysis of the forces exchanged between the two chambers demonstrates that they result unbalanced, keeping the LA in a sustained stretched condition that leads to dilation. This scenario clarifies the diastolic root of the dysfunction that may likely be the cause of the spiraling of events progressing toward failure of both LA emptying and LV filling.
This deeply interdisciplinary study provides a physics-based basis for both physics/engineering modeling of heart function and to cardiologists for the design of clinical studies.
Moderating effect of bank performance on bank value: Evidence from Jordan
Authors: Fawzi Shubita Mohammad , Habis Alrawashedh Nahed , Marouf Alsawalhah Jafer , Tawfiq Shaikh Saleh Eman
Published: September 2024

The relationship between bank performance and bank value is a crucial area of study, particularly in the context of emerging economies like Jordan. This study aims to investigate the moderating effect of bank performance on bank value, providing insight into how performance metrics influence overall valuation. The study employs a comprehensive methodological approach, utilizing panel data regression analysis to examine data from a sample of Jordanian banks over the period from 2014 to 2022. Key performance indicators such as Tobin’s Q, accounting conservatism, debt ratio, current ratio (CR), return on assets (ROA), and asset turnover are factors that influence bank value in the Jordanian market. The results reveal that bank performance significantly moderates the relationship between bank-specific factors and bank value. Specifically, the study finds that return on assets has a positive and statistically significant effect on bank value. The analysis reveals a significant positive correlation between bank value and profitability, as evidenced by a moderate positive correlation coefficient (0.26) between Tobin’s Q and ROA. However, weak or non-significant correlations are observed between bank value and accounting conservatism, debt ratio, and asset turnover.
The Contribution of Non-Technical Factors in the Development of Performance Measurement Frameworks
Authors: Awira Anthony , Ogolla Charles , Olusanya Babatunde Bayode
Published: September 2024

A performance measurement framework forms the basis for which the organizational, departmental, team and individual performance measures are developed. It is therefore imperative that a sound performance measurement framework is developed. While there are numerous studies that have concentrated on the centrality of performance measures as a performance management tool, there is less attention on the development of a performance management framework in intergovernmental organizations, which forms the basis for the formulation of performance measures. This study, thus sought to fill the void that many scholars appear to have left. Specifically, the study worked backwards with an objective of identifying the critical non-technical factors that are antecedents of a sound performance management framework. The study was conducted in IGAD which is a project-oriented institution that employs performance measures as an important performance management tool. The study followed a non-experimental research design methodology and copies of questionnaires were distributed to 108 respondents online. A response rate of 93.5% was realized. From the study, it emerged that, leadership, facilitative culture, supportive environment, top management commitment, and staff involvement are the main factors that organizations need to put in place if they are to successfully develop a sound performance measures framework.
Response of remote sensing-based climatic indicators to drought conditions during El Niño events and implications for water–food–energy nexus
Authors: Banda Kawawa , Phiri Micheal Katongo , Nyambe Imasiku
Published: September 2024

Hydrometeorological extremes, such as droughts, are a major threat to society and can have extensive damaging effects. In this study, daily rainfall estimates from the Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Stations (CHIRPS) quasi-global rainfall dataset were used to calculate the Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI) for the assessment of meteorological drought in Southern Province, Zambia. Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) imagery (250 m resolution) from MODIS-Terra, for the period 2000–2021, were used to derive the Standardised Vegetation Index (SVI) in order to assess agricultural drought. The Mann–Kendall trend test and Sen's slope were used to determine the spatial-temporal trends and their magnitudes. This study demonstrated that the droughts of the Southern Province of Zambia can be classified into two categories: regressive and aggressive droughts. Regressive droughts are associated with moderate to strong El Niño events. Although El Niño events undermine water security, regressive droughts tend to result in resilient vegetation owing to residue soil moisture. In contrast, aggressive droughts are characterised by an increase in drought intensity as the season progresses. Water security prospects in the region should focus on climate-smart approaches, such as managed aquifer recharge, to ensure water availability even under extreme drought conditions.
A multi-point leakage prediction statistical method using Bayesian inference in water distribution networks
Authors: Xie Chenlei , Tian Zheng , Chen Jie , Fang Qiansheng , Wang Jie
Published: September 2024

Leakage in water distribution networks (WDNs) not only leads to serious water loss and pipe contamination but also affects residents’ daily water. Accurate localization of leaks in WDN is significant to conserve water resources and reduce economic losses. However, in traditional optimization and verification methods for leak detection, factors such as modeling and pressure monitoring point errors are not taken into account, resulting in the deviation from the actual location of leaks. To address the mentioned issues, this article presents a WDN leakage probability prediction method based on Bayesian inference. The method converts the prior probability of leakage events into posterior probability. Then, by utilizing the posterior probability density function, the uncertainty of modeling and measurement errors in the hydraulic simulation model are quantified. The probability distribution of leakage pipes and leakage quantity within the leakage area is calculated, allowing for the location prediction and corresponding magnitude of leakage. The experimental results indicate that the prediction model can detect unknown quantities of leakage events. By collecting multiple sets of leakage data, it is possible to accurately predict the location and quantity of leaks, enhancing the efficiency of leakage detection in large-scale water supply networks and providing decision-making assistance for water utilities.
Embodied Solidarity: Feminist Care and Vulnerability in Parisian Squats
Authors: Pages A. Tancrede
Published: September 2024

Squatting has long been a strategy of migrant solidarity in urban areas. Whilst researchers in the past have focused on squats as sites of autonomous solidarity and as alternatives to state and/or humanitarian infrastructures of reception, little has been written on the care practices taking place within their walls. Based on militant ethnographic fieldwork and interviews, this article highlights the transformative social and political potentialities of care practices within squats. I focus on how the binary of provider/recipient of care is blurred in squats as intersectional identities allow for greater fluidity in identifying who can and cannot engage in care practices. As such, I argue that squats serve a role as an infrastructure of care within broader networks of solidarity while also emphasizing the way in which they enact an ethics of care revolving around radical inclusion.
‘I Am Like Their Swedish Mother’. Conceptualising Maternalism and Power Asymmetries during Solidarity Practices with Asylum Seekers
Authors: Sluijs Zinaïda
Published: September 2024

Building on observations and interviews conducted in various study associations and civil society organisations in Sweden, this paper explores the practices and discourses of volunteers supporting asylum seekers. Volunteers are often retired, white, women with Swedish citizenship who build on personal and professional experiences of being caregivers. Building on the concept of ‘maternalism’ and critical perspectives on Swedish (gender) exceptionalism, the paper discusses how female volunteers either consider themselves ‘like mothers’ or act as ‘moral educators’ educating asylum seekers on ‘Swedish’ norms and values. As such, the paper addresses the complexity of solidarity practices by considering how discourses of intimacy and care can also conceal structural inequalities differentiating morally superior white Swedish from passive, dependent, and infantilised asylum seekers.
Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Women Entrepreneurs in the Informal Business Sector in Tikapur City, Nepal
Authors: Ph.D. Scholar Ghanshyam Bhatta, , Professor Sanjay Baijal,
Published: September 2024

The main aim of this research work is to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on femaleentrepreneurs in informal entrepreneurial activities in Tikapur City, Nepal. This study used a quantitativeapproach and descriptive research design. The structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 30respondents among female entrepreneurs operating small, unofficial businesses such as street food sellers,petty retailers, and street vegetable and fruit vendors. The results show that the growth in the cost of healthcare was a major factor that affected the economic condition of female entrepreneurs in informal businesses.Similarly, a decrease in business sales was also found to be a problematic factor, followed by an increase ineducational costs, a decrease in income level, a decline in the source of income, an increase in the cost ofgoods and services, and a reduction in working hours. Moreover, the policy of government maintainingphysical distance affected the sales of informal businesses. Therefore, it can be concluded that the COVID19 pandemic has negatively affected the socioeconomic situation of women entrepreneurs. The study waslimited to examining the effects of COVID-19 on female business owners in the unorganized business sectorin Tikapur City, Nepal. This study could be a landmark for researchers, policymakers, and femaleentrepreneurs involved in informal businesses. The unique contribution of the study is to explore effect ofPandemic on women entrepreneurs in the informal business sector of Tikapur City Nepal.
Transition to a Greener Era with Industry 5.0 and Sustainability
Authors: Research Scholar Shubhi Yadav, , Assistant Professor Prince Jaiswal,
Published: September 2024

Industry 5.0, also known as the Fifth Industrial Revolution, is a brand-new stage of industrialization that isnow in developing phase. In this stage, enhanced workplace operations are performed with the use ofartificial intelligence and new industrial technology. This is paired with a greater emphasis on sustainabilityand pliancy; it also includes the strategy that places greater attention on people. In initial phase of theIndustrial Revolution 5.0, manpower was gradually replaced by automated processes that were powered bysteam and hydropower. In the second stage, mass manufacturing was made possible by the introduction ofelectricity. In the third stage, programmable computers and a strong digital ecosystem arose. The potentialof big data, cloud computing, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence was harnessedin smart factories as a component of the previous industrial revolution (Industry 4.0). Important questionsthose were left unanswered during these consecutive advancements are addressed by Industry 5.0, Are weundervaluing human resources at this point in the automation process? We did not decide to completelyautomate the industry since we found that individuals still play an important part in the revolution. Is itpossible to reconcile productivity and the environment with technology? Resilience, sustainability, andhuman-centeredness serve as the cornerstones around which Industry 5.0 is constructed. It is able toaccomplish its objectives thanks to these pillars. The plan of action for industry 5.0 driven environmentalresponsibility that this research has accomplished ought to deliver an expanded comprehension of how thenewest version of industry 5.0 can help to environmentally friendly growth. It describes how eachcomponents development should be carried out in an instrument that maximizes their combined influenceand involvement with future sustainability values. The data that has been collected through questionnairesand a range of secondary sources indicates that industry 5.0 with human-machine collaboration has a brightfuture and findings shows that productivity rises and can lead to a greener future through the use oftechnologies.
Community Health Workers as Mental Health Paraprofessionals: Protocol for a Mixed-Methods Pilot Feasibility Study
Authors: Moyce Sally , Crawford Cassidy
Published: September 2024

Background

Community health workers (CHWs) are effective in delivering behavioral activation (BA), especially in low-resource settings. In an area with a lack of Spanish-speaking mental health counselors, such as southwest Montana, CHWs can provide needed care.

Objective

The goal of this pilot study protocol is to test the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a model of care that engages CHWs as providers of BA.

Methods

We will train 2 CHWs in BA methodology. We will enroll 20 participants who screen positive for depression in a 12-week telephone intervention for BA. Preliminary efficacy will be tested in pre- and postscores of the Beck Depression Inventory and semistructured interviews. Feasibility and acceptability will be measured through participant retention and treatment adherence. The Therapeutic Alliance with Clinician Scale will be used to measure the strength of the therapeutic relationship. Descriptive statistics will measure alliances and repeated measures ANOVA will measure trends and changes in depression scores.

Results

Enrollment began in October 2023. A total of 12 participants completed at least 10 BA sessions and all study measures by the time the study concluded in May 2024. In August 2024, data analysis occurred with an anticipated manuscript to be submitted for publication in October 2024.

Conclusions

Results from this study will inform future studies into the implementation of an evidence-based mental health intervention in a limited resource setting for Latino people with limited English proficiency.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/57343
EVALUATION OF CONCEPT OF ANTIMICROBIAL STEWARDSHIP AMONG UG MEDICAL STUDENTS FOR BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF USE OF ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS AND MINIMIZING ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE
Authors: JYOTI S PATIL  , PRIYA P VISHWAKARMA  , ANAND M INGALE  , RASHMI M KARIGOUDAR
Published: September 2024

Objectives: The objective of this study is to assess interns perception and knowledge about antibiotic stewardship and their preparedness for appropriate use of antimicrobials and to prescribe antimicrobials.
Methods: The 164 medical interns of BLDE (DU)’s Shri B.M. Patil Medical College who provided consent to participate in the study were included in this cross-sectional web-based online survey. The study was carried out using a validated questionnaire. The data were analyzed using the statistical tool for the social sciences (Version 20).
Results: Out of the 164 interns, 133 (83.1%) completed the entire survey. The term “antimicrobial stewardship” was familiar to 51% (n=68). 50% (n=66) agreed that antibiotics are inappropriately used at the hospital. Approximately 88% (n=104) and 85% (n=113) of the interns thought that insufficient infection control practices and the use of wide spectrum antibiotics were the main causes of resistance development, respectively. About 90% (n=119) thought that lecture series and grand round discussions on the responsible use of antibiotics were good educational tools. About 37% (n=49), 41% (n=54), and 24% (n=32) of the interns understood the proper antibiotic selection for treating simple cases of urinary tract infections, could de-escalate antibiotic therapy, understand an anti-biogram, and could match a different combination of antimicrobials and microorganisms, respectively.
Conclusion: The major findings of our study were, despite students having good perception, the knowledge component was inadequate, that is, they lacked their preparedness and confidence to prescribe antibiotics which emphasizes that the students are aware of the antimicrobial stewardship but their knowledge domain needs to be improved for better application in their clinical practice.
Feasibility Analysis of Cross-cultural Competence Development in College English Textbooks---A Case Study of New Horizon College English Textbook for Viewing, Listening and Speaking
Authors: Li Penghao , Fan Jiying
Published: September 2024

Against the backdrop of increasingly frequent globalization and international communication, English serves not only as a tool for international exchange but also carries the function of disseminating and communicating diverse cultures. University English textbooks are not just tools for language learning but also crucial mediums for fostering students’ cross-cultural communication skills. This paper examines the cultural content reflected in the textbook and its impact on students’ cross-cultural communication abilities in the third edition of New Horizon College English Textbook for Viewing, Listening and Speaking (Third edition, Book 2) textbooks from a cross-cultural perspective. A framework of cross-cultural competence teaching for textbook analysis was constructed based on the previous research. The study analyzes the cultural content and its presentation in the textbooks according to the different dimensions of the framework, revealing significant differences in the selection and presentation of cultural content. Research findings show that the textbooks primarily focus on introducing English and American cultures while neglecting the diversity of other English-speaking countries and students’ local cultures, resulting in a narrow cultural perspective. Furthermore, the depth and breadth of cultural content are insufficient to comprehensively develop students’ cross-cultural communication skills. It is suggested that when using these textbooks for cultivating cross-cultural skills, attention should be given to diverse cultures, balancing the introduction of different cultures, incorporating students’ local cultures, and helping them develop a global perspective. By enriching cultural content and implementing diverse teaching activities, students’ cross-cultural understanding and communication skills can be enhanced, fostering international exchange and cooperation.
Desindustrialización prematura e informalidad laboral en América Latina
Authors: Casarreal P. Jorge A. , Cruz Moritz , Sánchez J Isaac L
Published: September 2024

El empleo informal es un problema particularmente grave en América Latina, donde poco más de la mitad de la fuerza laboral se desempeña en la informalidad. Trabajar en la informalidad augura pobreza pues el empleo informal se caracteriza por un salario inestable y bajo, así como la ausencia de derechos laborales. Resulta fundamental, por lo anterior, investigar sus causas y determinantes. En esta obra, con base en el modelo de desindustrialización de Kaldor, se propone que el empleo informal se explica por la desindustrialización prematura. Usando datos del periodo 1989-2017 para una muestra de países latinoamericanos (Argentina, Bolivia, Brasil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, México, Perú y Venezuela), y empleando técnicas econométricas de panel de datos, se demuestra que en dichas economías la informalidad laboral se explica por la desindustrialización prematura. Este resultado sugiere que deben promoverse políticas dirigidas a la reindustrialización para alentar el crecimiento manufacturero y el empleo en el sector formal.
Las infracciones tributarias en el sistema tributario mexicano
Authors: Ríos Granados Gabriela
Published: September 2024

Número 114Septiembre - Diciembre 2005Nueva Serie Año XXXVIIIISSN 0041 8633 LAS INFRACCIONES TRIBUTARIAS EN EL SISTEMA TRIBUTARIO MEXICANO Gabriela RÍOS GRANADOS* El cumplimiento de la obligación ciudadana de contribuir con las aportaciones requeridas para que el Estado cuente con recursos suficientes para la satisfacción de los servicios públicos, se considera fundamental. En éste sentido las infracciones tributarias constituyen uno de los medios utilizados por la autoridad para disuadir al contribuyente de realizar conductas que puedan ir en contra del interés general. Dado lo anterior, en el presente ensayo se realiza un estudio general de las infracciones, la clarificación sobre su naturaleza jurídica y el análisis de contenidos de la legislación mexicana referente al tema, tales como el Código Fiscal de la Federación y la legislación aduanera. Palabras clave: impuestos, sanciones administrativas, derecho administrativo. * Investigadora del Instituto de Investigaciones Jurídicas de la UNAM. * Nota: Debido que la traducción es automática podrá ser inexacta o contener errores.
Discriminación de precios, dumping y depredación. Tres disciplinas, un fenómeno económico
Authors: González de Cossío Francisco
Published: September 2024

Número 115Enero - Abril 2006Nueva Serie Año XXXIXISSN 0041 8633 DISCRIMINACIÓN DE PRECIOS, DUMPING Y DEPREDACIÓN. TRES DISCIPLINAS, UN FENÓMENO ECONÓMICO Francisco GONZÁLEZ DE COSSÍO * La discriminación de precios, el dumping y la depredación de precios son tres disciplinas que tienen como origen la existencia de precios distintos por un mismo producto. El análisis y regulación de cada uno es distinta. En este artículo se realiza un breve estudio de cada uno con miras a realizar una propuesta: que el derecho de la competencia económica absorba la disciplina de dumping, actualmente incluida en la rama del comercio exterior. Palabras clave: Dumping, comercio exterior, competencia económica. * Profesor de arbitraje y derecho económico (incluyendo competencia económica y derecho mercantil) en la Universidad Iberoamericana, Universidad de las Américas e Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México. Deseo agradecer el interés y valiosa retroalimentación recibida de Antonio Osio Tovar tanto en el aspecto económico como jurídico. Sin embargo, cualquier deficiencia o error es atribuible exclusivamente al autor. * Nota: Debido que la traducción es automática podrá ser inexacta o contener errores.
Derechos humanos y credibilidad política
Authors: Orduña Trujillo Eva Leticia
Published: September 2024

Número 116Mayo - Agosto 2006Nueva Serie Año XXXIXISSN 0041 8633 DERECHOS HUMANOS Y CREDIBILIDAD POLÍTICA Eva Leticia ORDUÑA TRUJILLO * Aquí se intenta demostrar, por una parte, que la credibilidad que obtenga un gobierno de sus ciudadanos es un elemento imprescindible para lograr la cohesión social y la fortaleza del Estado, y por la otra, que esta credibilidad sólo puede ser obtenida con una política integral y coherente de protección a los derechos humanos. En primera instancia, se hace referencia a la crisis de credibilidad que se vive en el mundo por parte de la sociedad hacia sus gobiernos. Posteriormente, se contrastan corrientes como el iusnaturalismo y el iuspositivismo, tratando de demostrar que incluso corrientes de pensamiento tan opuestas contemplan como indispensable para la legitimación del poder político, la aceptación y la confianza de los individuos. Palabras clave: derechos humanos, legitimidad, Estado, ciudadanía. * Investigadora de tiempo completo. Centro Coordinador y Difusor de Estudios Latinoamericanos, UNAM. * Nota: Debido que la traducción es automática podrá ser inexacta o contener errores.
La nueva forma del acuerdo arbitral. Aún otra victoria del consensualismo
Authors: González de Cossío Francisco
Published: September 2024

Número 120Septiembre - Diciembre 2007ISSN 0041 8633 LA NUEVA FORMA DEL ACUERDO ARBITRAL. AÚN OTRA VICTORIA DEL CONSENSUALISMO* Francisco GONZÁLEZ DE COSSÍO** Desde el ángulo de derecho civil y arbitral, este estudio analiza el requisito de forma del acuerdo arbitral, en particular las reformas recientes que la Comisión de Naciones Unidas para el Derecho Mercantil Internacional ha debatido y aprobado sobre el tema. Para palpar su importancia se comentan los orígenes de la norma actual y cómo fue superada por la realidad, para luego profundizar sobre la trascendencia de la nueva regla y su impacto en el régimen de derecho arbitral. Finalmente, aplaude la modificación y sugiere que el legislador mexicano la adopte. Palabras clave: Arbitraje, acuerdo arbitral, forma, por escrito, ejecución. * Artículo recibido el 3 de noviembre de 2006 y aceptado el 5 de abril de 2007. ** Profesor de Arbitraje y Derecho económico (mercantil y competencia económica) en la Universidad Iberoamericana. * Nota: Debido que la traducción es automática podrá ser inexacta o contener errores.
Modernización del derecho mercantil. Uniformidad internacional y desarrollo económico
Authors: Kozolchyk Boris
Published: September 2024

Número 125Mayo - Agosto 2009ISSN 0041 8633 MODERNIZACIÓN DEL DERECHO MERCANTIL. UNIFORMIDAD INTERNACIONAL Y DESARROLLO ECONÓMICO* MODERNIZATION OF COMMERCIAL LAW. INTERNATIONAL UNIFORMITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Boris KOZOLCHYK** Aquellas instituciones que más se utilizan en el mundo comercial ganan su universalidad porque son las que fielmente incorporan las mejores prácticas comerciales y jurídicas. Este artículo examina por qué el derecho de garantías mobiliarias, institución determinante del desarrollo económico de varios países y regiones, es muy posible que logre su cometido en Guatemala y Honduras (como lo ha logrado en Canadá, los Estados Unidos y otros países) y por qué no logrará su cometido en México y el Perú, entre otros países, a menos que se reformule su derecho positivo y se cambien actitudes básicas de su derecho viviente. Palabras clave: modernización del derecho comercial, mejores prácticas comerciales, derecho de garantías mobiliarias, desarrollo económico. * El artículo fue recibido el 27 de octubre de 2008 y aceptado para su publicación el 30 de enero de 2009. Traducción de la doctora Mariana Silveira, directora de Investigaciones del NLCIFT, y del autor del original, "Modernization of Commercial Law: International Uniformity and Economic Development", para su publicación en Brooklyn Journal of International Law, vol. 34, núm. 3, verano de 2009. Agradezco a la licenciada Ana Cristina Castañeda su asistencia en la investigación de este artículo. Todos los errores y omisiones son responsabilidad del autor. ** Profesor de derecho "Evo de Concini" en la Facultad de Derecho "James E. Rogers" de la Universidad de Arizona; fundador y presidente del National Law Center for Inter-American Free Trade (NLCIFT) en Tucson, Arizona. * Nota: Debido que la traducción es automática podrá ser inexacta o contener errores.
Designing Scalable Java Architectures on AWS: Strategies and Best Practices
Authors: Koneni Venugopal
Published: September 2024

This article explores strategies and best practices for designing scalable Java architectures on Amazon Web Services (AWS). It addresses the growing need for robust, scalable systems due to increasing global internet traffic and the prevalence of AWS in cloud-native applications. The paper examines key architectural approaches, including microservices, serverless computing, and containerization, alongside essential AWS services for load balancing, auto-scaling, data management, and security. It presents research-backed insights on the benefits of these strategies, such as improved performance, cost efficiency, and resource utilization. The article also discusses best practices for implementing these architectures, emphasizing the importance of proper monitoring, optimization, and security measures in creating resilient and high-performing Java applications on AWS.
Reproductive cycle of the sub-Antarctic nototheniid Patagonotothen cornucola (Nototheniidae) in the Argentine Patagonian Shelf
Authors: Marcinkevicius Mauro S. , Serrano-Aguirre Carolina C. , Jones Bárbara A. , Álvarez María V.
Published: September 2024

Nototheniidae is the most numerous family of notothenioids and, although they are mainly Antarctic, they are also well represented in Patagonian waters. In both Antarctic and sub-Antarctic waters, they adopt a wide variety of reproductive strategies. In Antarctic waters they usually have a biennial reproductive cycle, whereas in sub-Antarctic ones, they reproduce annually or biannually. In the intertidal zone of central Patagonia the most abundant nototheniid fish is Patagonotothen cornucola and, despite this, there is little information about their biology. The aim of this work was to study its reproductive cycle in a rocky intertidal coast of Argentine Patagonia by means of histological and morphological analyses. Samples were collected monthly at two intertidal sites in the San Jorge Gulf. Condition factor, gonadosomatic and hepatosomatic indexes were calculated and thin sections of gonads were stained with one-step trichrome to determine gonadal stages. Relative and potential fecundity were also estimated. Males and females mature synchronously and reach maximum gonadosomatic index between July and August. In females the hepatosomatic index increases synchronously with gonadosomatic index, while in males it remains constant throughout the cycle. It is concluded that P. cornucola has an annual reproductive cycle and that spawning occurs in winter. Maximum potential fecundity is approximately 27,095 oocytes in a 11.7 cm female and it increases with size.
Morfometría y diagnóstico molecular de larvas de Anisakis (Nematoda: Ascaridida) en Merluccius gayi (Chordata: Gadiformes) y Dosidicus gigas (Mollusca: Teuthida) en la región del Biobío, Chile
Authors: Lugo-Pérez Luisana , Vera-Escalona Iván , George-Nascimento Mario , Brante Antonio , Gamboa Maribet
Published: September 2024

Las especies del género Anisakis (Nematoda: Anisakidae) son parásitos marinos con ciclo de vida indirecto. Los crustáceos planctónicos actúan como primeros hospedadores intermediarios, mientras que peces y cefalópodos intervienen como segundos hospedadores intermediarios o paraténicos, finalmente el ciclo se cierra en los cetáceos, mamíferos marinos que son los principales hospedadores definitivos del género. En el ciclo de vida, las larvas de Anisakis pueden ser ingeridas por el hombre interviniendo como huésped accidental, lo que puede ocasionar anisakiasis, una zoonosis adquirida a través del consumo de peces y cefalópodos crudos o marinados. Estos nemátodos tienen una distribución cosmopolita, sin embargo, su diversidad ha sido escasamente estudiada en el hemisferio Sur. Por tanto, se evaluó la diversidad de las larvas de Anisakis spp., presentes en dos especies de hospederos de Chile, combinando el análisis morfométrico y genético. Para ello, se recolectaron larvas de Anisakis spp. en la cavidad abdominal de la merluza Merluccius gayi y el calamar Dosidicus gigas, procedentes de terminales pesqueros de la región del Biobío, Chile. La caracterización morfométrica de las larvas de Anisakis spp., consistió en la medición de la longitud del esófago, ventrículo esofágico, cola, longitud total y ancho máximo del cuerpo. Para los análisis genéticos se usó la región molecular nuclear ITS (ITS1-ITS2) y mitocondrial COX2. Los resultados morfométricos revelaron que las larvas extraídas de D. gigas son significativamente de mayor longitud que las recolectadas en M. gayi, sugiriendo una alta variabilidad fenotípica hospedador-dependiente. Los análisis moleculares y filogenéticos determinaron la presencia de Anisakis pegreffii en ambos hospedadores, sin embargo, demostraron una baja diferenciación genética y diversidad nucleotídica entre las secuencias, indicando una escasa variabilidad genética para el conjunto de datos. Este trabajo constituye el primer registro molecular de A. pegreffii en hospedadores intermediario o paraténicos de la costa de Chile.