bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of ICT investment, digital financial inclusion, and environmental tax in promoting sustainable energy development in the MENA region: Evidences with Dynamic Common Correlated Effects (DCE) and instrumental variable-adjusted DCE
Authors: Xiangling LIU , Qamruzzaman Md.
Published: May 2024

His research investigates the interplay among investment in Information and Communication Technology [ICT], digital financial inclusion, environmental tax policies, and their impact on the progression of sustainable energy development within the Middle East and North Africa [MENA] region. Recognizing the distinctive hurdles impeding sustainable energy advancement, effective policy formulation and implementation in MENA necessitate a comprehensive understanding of these variables. Employing a Dynamic Common Correlated Effects [DCE] model alongside an instrumental variable-adjusted DCE approach, this study explores the relationship between ICT investment, digital financial inclusion, environmental tax, and sustainable energy development. The DCE model facilitates the analysis of dynamic effects and potential correlations, while the instrumental variable-adjusted DCE model addresses issues pertaining to endogeneity. The results indicate that both ICT investment and the promotion of digital financial inclusion significantly and positively impact sustainable energy development in the MENA region. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of environmental tax implementation in fostering sustainable energy advancement, highlighting the critical role of environmental policy interventions. Based on these findings, governmental prioritization of ICT investment and initiatives for digital financial service integration is recommended to bolster sustainable energy growth in MENA. Furthermore, the adoption of efficient environmental tax measures is essential to incentivize sustainable energy practices and mitigate environmental degradation. These policy recommendations aim to create a conducive environment for sustainable energy progression in the MENA region, contributing to both economic prosperity and environmental conservation.
Accelerated involution of germinal center in palatine tonsils in IgA nephropathy
Authors: Ueda Hiroyuki , Joh Kensuke , Ueda Yoshimi , Marumoto Hirokazu , Okabe Masahiro , Isaka Nao , Tsuboi Nobuo , Kojima Hiromi , Miyazaki Yoichi , Yokoo Takashi
Published: May 2024

Background

Altered immunological responses in the palatine tonsils may be involved in the pathogenesis of IgA nephropathy (IgAN). The germinal center serves as the site for antigen-specific humoral immune responses in the palatine tonsils. Germinal center involution is frequently observed in the palatine tonsils of IgAN (IgAN tonsils). However, the pathogenic significance of these characteristic changes remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the morphological changes in secondary lymphoid follicles in IgAN tonsils and to evaluate the correlation between the morphometric results and the clinicopathological severity of IgAN.

Methods

The tonsils of age-matched patients with recurrent tonsillitis (RT tonsils) were used as controls. The correlation between the degree of lymphoid follicular involution and histopathological severities in clinical or kidney biopsy was evaluated.

Results

In total, 87 patients with IgAN were included (48% male, median age 35 years, median estimated glomerular filtration rate: 74 mL/min/1.73 m2). Compared to RT tonsils, IgAN tonsils showed smaller median sizes of lymphoid follicles and germinal centers (P < 0.001). The relative areas of lymphoid follicles (%LFA) and germinal centers (%GCA) in the total tonsillar tissue were smaller in the IgAN tonsils than in the RT tonsils (P < 0.001). In contrast, the median proportion of mantle zones in the total tonsillar tissue was comparable between the groups. A lower %LFA was associated with a longer period from the onset of urinary abnormalities to biopsy diagnosis and higher urinary protein excretion (P = 0.01). %LFA showed significant negative correlations with frequencies of glomeruli with both global and segmental sclerosis.

Conclusions

The present study confirmed accelerated germinal center involution in the tonsils of patients with IgAN. This characteristic change in the IgAN tonsil correlates with heavy proteinuria and advanced chronic histopathological changes in the kidneys, thereby suggesting the involvement of repeated tonsillar immunoreactions during IgAN progression.
Detection of thermotolerant coliforms and SARS-CoV-2 RNA in sewage and recreational waters in the Ecuadorian coast: A call for improving water quality regulation
Authors: Cárdenas-Calle Maritza , Patiño Leandro , Pernia Beatriz , Erazo Roberto , Muñoz Carlos , Valencia-Avellan Magaly , Lozada Mariana , Regato-Arrata Mary , Barrera Miguel , Aquino Segundo , Fuentes Stefania , Duque Javier , Velázquez-Araque Luis , Carpio Bertha , Méndez-Roman Carlos , Calle Carlos , Cárdenas Guillermo , Guizado-Herrera David , Tello Clara Lucía , Bravo-Basantes Verónica , Francis Jhannelle , Uyaguari Miguel
Published: May 2024

Wastewater surveillance represents an alternative approach to regulating contamination and the early detection of infectious agents and outbreaks of diseases of public health importance. This study evaluated domestic wastewater effects on recreational waters in estuarine and seawater bodies in Guayas and Santa Elena provinces in Ecuador, South America. Fecal indicator bacteria (thermotolerant coliforms) served as key indicators for evaluation. Physical, chemical, and microbiological quality markers following the Ecuadorian environmental quality standard and the discharge of effluents to the water resource were analyzed. Samples were collected from 44 coastal sites and 2 oxidation lagoons during the dry and rainy seasons of 2020 and 2021, respectively. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in samples with higher E. coli concentrations using reverse transcription quantitative PCR to detect the genes N and ORF1ab. All samples analyzed for SARS-CoV-2 showed Ct ˂ 40 for at least one gene. Four samples showed at least 20 genome copies of gene N per reaction. These were at an artisanal fishing port, an estuarine area (Palmar), a recreational bay, and an oxidation lagoon. A moderate correlation was found between SARS-CoV-2 RNA, thermotolerant coliform and E. coli (p-value ≤ 0.0037), and a strong and positive correlation between thermotolerant coliform and E. coli. (p-value ≤ 0.00001), highlighting the utility of these established parameters as a proxy of the virus. Significant differences were found in the concentrations of thermotolerant coliforms between seasons (p-value = 0.016) and sites (p-value = 0.005). The highest levels of coliforms were found in the dry season (63000 MPN/100 mL) in Anconcito and during the rainy season (14000 MPN/100 mL) at Esterillo in Playas County. It is recommended that the decentralized autonomous governments of the surveyed provinces in Ecuador implement urgent corrective actions and establish medium-term mechanisms to minimize a potential contamination route. Additional parameters must be included in the monitoring, such as Enterococcus and intestinal parasites, due to their public health implications. In the oxidation lagoons, maintenance actions must be carried out, including the dissolution of sediments, an increase in water retention times, and in situ treatment of the sludge, to improve the system’s performance.
Impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on the quality and quantity of Malaysia’s palm oil production: A time series analysis
Authors: Mat Enh Azlizan , Mustafa Hasrina , Ahmed Fahri , Wahab Andika
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the effects of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on the quality and quantity of Malaysia’s palm oil production through a time series analysis. The study uses three primary factors to evaluate palm oil production: the Monthly Oil Extraction Rate (OER), the Monthly Fresh Fruit Bunch (FFB) Yield, and the Monthly Oil Exports. The results indicate that the Russia-Ukraine conflict significantly impacted the quality and quantity of palm oil production in Malaysia. Marginal declines in both the quality and quantity of palm oil produced at the onset of the conflict indicate a slight but significant decline in palm oil production during the next four-year period.
Comparative analysis of pulmonary ventilation distribution between low-cost and branded incentive spirometers using electrical impedance tomography in healthy adults: Study protocol
Authors: Mera Noraelena , Wilches Luna Esther Cecilia , Benavides-Cordoba Vicente
Published: May 2024

Background

The Incentive Spirometer (IS) increases lung volume and improves gas exchange by visually stimulating patients to take slow, deep breaths. It prevents respiratory complications and treats postoperative atelectasis in patients undergoing abdominal, thoracic, and neurosurgical procedures. Its effectiveness has been validated in studies that support improved lung capacities and volumes in individuals with respiratory complications, postoperative thoracic surgery, upper abdominal surgery, and bariatric surgery. The modified Pachón incentive spirometer (MPIS) is a cost-effective alternative to branded IS. It is crucial to validate whether the MPIS distributes ventilation as effectively as commercial devices do. Ventilation distribution will be measured using electrical impedance tomography.

Objective

The aim is to compare the distribution of pulmonary ventilation between the MPIS and another commercial IS in healthy adults using electrical impedance tomography.

Methods

A crossover clinical trial is proposed to evaluate the measurement of pulmonary ventilation distribution using EIT in a sample of healthy adults. All participants will use a commercial flow IS and the MPIS, with the order of assignment randomized. This research will use electrical impedance tomography to validate the operation of the MPIS.

Conclusions

This study protocol will compare two incentive spirometers’ impact on pulmonary ventilation, potentially endorsing the adoption of a cost-effective device to enhance accessibility for targeted populations.

Trial registration

The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NTC05532748).
How can low-carbon help high-quality urban development?—Empirical evidence from low-carbon city pilot policies
Authors: Fu Dongping , Zhang Liuting
Published: May 2024

High-quality development is the paramount task for comprehensively building a socialist modernized country. The low-carbon city pilot policy, with cities as the unit of action, provides new opportunities for high-quality economic transformation. Based on panel data from 261 cities between 2005 and 2018, this study calculates the level of high-quality economic development in Chinese cities, constructs a multi-period difference-in-differences model, analyzes the impact of the low-carbon city pilot policy on high-quality economic development, and explores the policy’s heterogeneous effects on high-quality development in different types of cities and its transmission mechanism. The research findings show that the low-carbon city pilot policy can significantly promote high-quality economic development in cities and has heterogeneous effects in terms of regional differences, city types, and city scale. The effects are relatively greater in the eastern region, non-resource-based cities, and mega-cities. The low-carbon city pilot policy promotes high-quality economic development through mechanisms such as technological progress effects, resource agglomeration effects, and government action improvement effects. Combining theoretical analysis with empirical results, this study proposes policy recommendations to enhance the effectiveness of the low-carbon city pilot policy in promoting high-quality development.
Fecal microbiota profiles of growing pigs and their relation to growth performance
Authors: König Emilia , Beasley Shea , Heponiemi Paulina , Kivinen Sanni , Räkköläinen Jaakko , Salminen Seppo , Collado Maria Carmen , Borman Tuomas , Lahti Leo , Piirainen Virpi , Valros Anna , Heinonen Mari
Published: May 2024

The early gut microbiota composition is fundamentally important for piglet health, affecting long-term microbiome development and immunity. In this study, the gut microbiota of postparturient dams was compared with that of their offspring in three Finnish pig farms at three growth phases. The differences in fecal microbiota of three study development groups (Good, Poorly, and PrematureDeath) were analyzed at birth (initial exposure phase), weaning (transitional phase), and before slaughter (stable phase). Dam Lactobacillaceae abundance was lower than in piglets at birth. Limosilactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus amylovorus were dominantly expressed in dams and their offspring. Altogether 17 piglets (68%) were identified with Lactobacillaceae at the initial exposure phase, divided unevenly among the development groups: 85% of Good, 37.5% of Poorly, and 75% of PrematureDeath pigs. The development group Good was identified with the highest microbial diversity, whereas the development group PrematureDeath had the lowest diversity. After weaning, the abundance and versatility of Lactobacillaceae in piglets diminished, shifting towards the microbiome of the dam. In conclusion, the fecal microbiota of pigs tends to develop towards a similar alpha and beta diversity despite development group and rearing environment.
Sublethal effects of a commercial Bt product and Bt cotton flowers on the bollworm (Helicoverpa zea) with impacts to predation from a lady beetle (Hippodamia convergens)
Authors: Elkins Blake H. , Portilla Maribel , Allen Kerry Clint , Little Nathan S. , Mullen Regina M. , Paulk Ryan T. , Read Quentin D.
Published: May 2024

Insecticidal Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) toxins produced by transgenic cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) plants have become an essential component of cotton pest management. Bt toxins are the primary management tool in transgenic cotton for lepidopteran pests, the most important of which is the bollworm (Helicoverpa zea Boddie) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the United States (U.S.). However, bollworm larvae that survive after consuming Bt toxins may experience sublethal effects, which could alter interactions with other organisms, such as natural enemies. Experiments were conducted to evaluate how sublethal effects of a commercial Bt product (Dipel) incorporated into artificial diet and from Bt cotton flowers impact predation from the convergent lady beetle (Hippodamia convergens Guérin-Méneville) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), common in cotton fields of the mid-southern U.S. Sublethal effects were detected through reduced weight and slower development in bollworm larvae which fed on Dipel incorporated into artificial diet, Bollgard II, and Bollgard 3 cotton flowers. Sublethal effects from proteins incorporated into artificial diet were found to significantly alter predation from third instar lady beetle larvae. Predation of bollworm larvae also increased significantly after feeding for three days on a diet incorporated with Bt proteins. These results suggest that the changes in larval weight and development induced by Bt can be used to help predict consumption of bollworm larvae by the convergent lady beetle. These findings are essential to understanding the potential level of biological control in Bt cotton where lepidopteran larvae experience sublethal effects.
A novel MCGDM technique based on correlation coefficients under probabilistic hesitant fuzzy environment and its application in clinical comprehensive evaluation of orphan drugs
Authors: Hu Yubo , Pang Zhiqiang
Published: May 2024

Probabilistic hesitant fuzzy sets (PHFSs) are superior to hesitant fuzzy sets (HFSs) in avoiding the problem of preference information loss among decision makers (DMs). Owing to this benefit, PHFSs have been extensively investigated. In probabilistic hesitant fuzzy environments, the correlation coefficients have become a focal point of research. As research progresses, we discovered that there are still a few unresolved issues concerning the correlation coefficients of PHFSs. To overcome the limitations of existing correlation coefficients for PHFSs, we propose new correlation coefficients in this study. In addition, we present a multi-criteria group decision-making (MCGDM) method under unknown weights based on the newly proposed correlation coefficients. In addition, considering the limitations of DMs’ propensity to use language variables for expression in the evaluation process, we propose a method for transforming the evaluation information of the DMs’ linguistic variables into probabilistic hesitant fuzzy information in the newly proposed MCGDM method. To demonstrate the applicability of the proposed correlation coefficients and MCGDM method, we applied them to a comprehensive clinical evaluation of orphan drugs. Finally, the reliability, feasibility and efficacy of the newly proposed correlation coefficients and MCGDM method were validated.
The efficacy and safety of MARS-PD: Meridian activation remedy system for Parkinson’s disease—A single-center, assessor and statistician-blinded, parallel-group randomized, controlled trial protocol
Authors: Park Miso S. , Park SangSoo , Kang Jie-Yoon , Jung In Chul , Yoo HoRyong
Published: May 2024

Background

Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients face a substantial unmet need for disease-modifying interventions. Potential approaches such as exercise and acupuncture have been investigated to slow PD progression. To address this unmet need, we developed a novel therapeutic approach that integrates acupuncture and exercise: the Meridian Activation Remedy System for PD patients (MARS-PD). Building upon promising outcomes observed in our preliminary pilot study, where MARS-PD exhibited a large clinically important difference on the Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale Part III (MDS-UPDRS Part III), we embark on a randomized controlled trial with the primary objective of examining the efficacy, safety, and economic impact of MARS-PD.

Methods

In this single-center, assessor and statistician-blinded, parallel-group randomized controlled trial, we aim to investigate the clinical efficacy of MARS-PD through 16 interventions administered over 8 weeks in 88 PD patients. Participants will be randomly assigned to the experimental (n = 44) or control (n = 44) groups. The experimental group will receive MARS-PD intervention alongside standard care, while the control group will solely receive standard care. The intervention period spans 8 weeks, followed by a 12-week post-intervention follow-up. The primary endpoint is the change in MDS-UPDRS Part III score from baseline to the conclusion of the 8-week intervention. Secondary outcomes encompass various assessments, including MDS-UPDRS, International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form, Parkinson Self Questionnaire, Parkinson’s Disease Sleep Scale, Timed Up and Go test, GAITRite metrics, Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy measurements, smart band outcomes, gut microbiome analysis results, and iris connective tissue texture.

Discussion

Previous studies by the authors have indicated MARS-PD’s safety and benefits for PD patients. Building upon this foundation, our current study aims to provide a more comprehensive and detailed confirmation of the efficacy of MARS-PD.

Trial registration

cris.nih.go.kr KCT0006646 –First posted on 7 October 2021; ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05621772 –First posted on 11 November 2022.
Introduction
Authors: Blanco F. José , Vázquez-López Raúl J.
Published: May 2024

This second issue on ‘Latin American/Latinx Fashion’ and popular culture introduces research on the creative output of fashion and style in popular culture through scholarly articles from a wide range of disciplines and perspectives. The articles contained here speak to Latin American and Latinx lifestyles and cultural diversity as well as the survival and influence of native, African and European dress in the forging of fashion and style identities. Other topics discussed include ideas of beauty and style, cultural appropriation, shifting values and perceptions of fashion and style, and the development of fashion systems in the region, including emerging markets, designers, brands and venues.
Black women, Brazilian butt lifts and body image: A qualitative study on the role social media play in promoting the thick ideal
Authors: Grubbs Lauryn , Stannard Casey R.
Published: May 2024

Brazilian butt lift (BBL) surgery is defined by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery as ‘a specialized fat transfer procedure that augments the size and shape of the buttocks without implants’. While members of all ethnic and racial groups elect to get cosmetic surgery, BBLs are especially popular among Black women. Unlike the Eurocentric beauty standard to be as thin as possible, Black women strive for an in-between weight, otherwise known as the thick ideal. This body ideal is based on the Mammy and Jezebel stereotypes of Black women and can cause women with excess or too little curves to feel a sense of inferiority or a lack of racial acceptance. Many prominent Black celebrities and influencers have either had, encouraged or drawn attention to BBLs through various mass media channels, including social media. Thus, this research aimed to understand the trend towards buttock augmentation and body concerns among Black women and examine if social media play a role in sharing information and opinions regarding the procedure within the Black community. The research was guided by two questions: (1) what discussions are Black women having about BBLs on social media? (2) Do conversations about BBLs impact Black women’s body image and body satisfaction? To explore the purpose, videos on TikTok were examined. TikTok, a video-focused social networking platform, was chosen due to its rising popularity, focus on appearance-based content and its emphasis on collaboration and conversation. The results fell under two themes: (1) motivations for having a BBL and (2) resistance against having a BBL. The themes were consistent with previous research done on the relationship between internet use and body image concerns, previous research conducted on the impact of the thick ideal on Black women’s body image and sociocultural theories of self-objectification, social comparison and body surveillance.
Undergraduate curators: Production of a justice-oriented fashion museum exhibition
Authors: Reddy-Best Kelly L.
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this scholarship on teaching is to examine how undergraduate students can engage with justice-oriented fashion history through curating a small fashion exhibition as a group project in a single 17-week semester. I explore how both scaffolding and formative assessment techniques shaped this undergraduate learning experience. To build this case study, I drew upon multiple sources including the syllabus, course materials provided to the students, literature used to build the course and my faculty self-ratings. The instructions for the entire project were broken down into smaller tasks due throughout the semester. I found that students were heavily engaged throughout the entire process, particularly when browsing the fashion collection for potential objects. Overall, this project serves as an example for undergraduates curating exhibitions in a one-semester format using a smaller university fashion collection with modest resources overcoming the previously documented roadblocks to using fashion teaching collections.
Object Detection and Regression Based Visible Spectrophotometric Analysis: A Demonstration Using Methylene Blue Solution
Authors: Aytaç Ersin
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the estimation of the concentration of methylene blue solutions to understand if visible spectrophotometry could be performed using a smartphone and machine learning. The presented procedure consists of taking photos, detecting test tubes and sampling region of interest (ROI) with YOLOv5, finding the hue, saturation, value (HSV) code of the dominant color in the ROI, and regression. 257 photos were taken for the procedure. The YOLOv5 object detection architecture was trained on 928 images and the highest mAP@05 values were detected as 0.915 in 300 epochs. For automatic ROI sampling, the YOLOv5 detect.py file was edited. The trained YOLOv5 detected 254 out of 257 test tubes and extracted ROIs. The HSV code of the dominant color in the exported ROI images was determined and stored in a csv file together with the concentration values. Subsequently, 25 different regression algorithms were applied to the generated data set. The extra trees regressor was the most generalizing model with 99.5% training and 99.4% validation R2 values. A hyperparameter tuning process was performed on the extra trees regressor and a mixed model was created using the best 3 regression algorithms to improve the R2 value. Finally, all three models were tested on unseen data and the lowest MSE value was found in the untuned extra trees regressor and blended model with values of 0.10564 and 0.16586, respectively. These results prove that visible spectrophotometric analysis can be performed using the presented procedure and that a mobile application can be developed for this purpose.
Proliferation and apoptosis studies of interplacental areas after aglepristone treatment for planned cesarean section in pregnant bitches
Authors: Limmanont Chunsumon , Ponglowhapan Suppawiwat , Tienthai Paisan , Lertwatcharasarakul Preeda , Sathaphonkunlathat Thareerat , Sirinarumitr Kaitkanoke
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim: Progesterone (P4) is the main hormone for pregnancy maintenance, occurring approximately 62–64 days after ovulation in bitches. Progesterone acts by binding to specific receptors. Aglepristone is a progesterone receptor (PR) antagonist with a higher affinity for PR binding. There are no published studies on cell proliferation and apoptosis in the canine uterus at the time of parturition. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the local effects of aglepristone on cell proliferation and apoptosis of interplacental uterine tissue during planned cesarean section (C-section) in bitches.

Materials and Methods: In this study, 13 client-owned French bulldogs were examined. Bitches were divided into treatment (n = 8) and control (n = 5) groups. Ovulation timing was predicted based on the serum P4 level on 62–64 days post-ovulation for parturition. Serum P4 levels were measured before (on 60-day post-ovulation) and on C-section day (on 61-day post-ovulation). Aglepristone (Alizine®), 15 mg/kg subcutaneously (SC), was administered on 60 days post-ovulation in the treatment group. A C-section was planned 20–24 h later, and interplacental uterine areas were collected from both groups during the C-section. Immunohistochemistry based on Ki-67 and TUNEL assay was used to evaluate cell proliferation and apoptosis in four different interplacental uterine tissue layers (epithelium, stroma, glandular epithelium, and myometrium). Data are reported as mean ± standard deviation. Kruskal–Wallis test was used for comparisons of more than two independent groups. P value of 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: One bitch in the treatment group was excluded due to emergency C-section 8 h after aglepristone administration. Serum P4 levels (ng/mL) at 20–24 h before and at C-section were 6.09 ± 2.72 and 4.32 ± 2.2 in the treatment group (n = 7) and 5.45 ± 1.28 and 3.67 ± 1.89 in the control group (n = 5), respectively. Proliferation (PI) and apoptotic (AI) indices were <5% and >45%, respectively, in both the treatment (n = 5) and control (n = 3) groups. PI and AI were detected at interplacental areas.

Conclusion: There were no significant differences in serum P4 levels or PI and AI indices between the groups. The PI <5% and AI was higher than 45% in both groups. Aglepristone did not have a direct effect on the serum P4 levels in both groups. These results correlated with the natural physiology of parturition preparation. Aglepristone 15 mg/kg SC injected 20–24 h before parturition had no effect on the P4 level, nor were any harmful effects observed for a planned C-section in pregnant bitches.

Keywords: aglepristone, apoptosis, cesarean section, bitch, proliferation.
Colic incidence, risk factors, and therapeutic management in a working horse population in Tuban, Indonesia
Authors: Fikri Faisal , Hendrawan Dodit , Wicaksono Arya Pradana , Purnomo Agus , Khairani Shafia , Chhetri Shekhar , Purnama Muhammad Thohawi Elziyad , Çalışkan Hakan
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim: Colic is the primary problem affecting equestrian care worldwide. The primary cause of colic is digestive diseases; however, they can also affect organs from different systems in the abdominal region. In addition to a prior history of the disease and its treatment, risk factors may be assessed to determine the etiology of the disease in horses without or with a history of colic. This study aimed to present a summary of the incidence, risk factors, and medical procedures for colic in horses.

Materials and Methods: Based on owner reports, 223 horses in Tuban, Indonesia, suspected of having colic were investigated. During the investigation of clinical parameters, investigators went door-to-door with interested horse owners to gather information about potential risk factors related to equine colic. Information on horses diagnosed with colic was obtained from the medical records of treatment. A Chi-square test was used to investigate the potential association between the risk factors, medical protocol, and the outcome of colic in horses.

Results: Of the 187 cases, spasmodic colic was the most common (48.13%), but 17 (9.09%) had no definitive diagnosis. Poor body condition scores (χ2 = 58.73; p < 0.001), wheat bran feeding (χ2 = 26.79; p < 0.001), concentrate (χ2 = 10.66; p < 0.01), less access to water (χ2 = 128.24; p < 0.001), recurrence of colic (χ2 = 85.64; p < 0.001), no deworming program (χ2 = 54.76; p < 0.001), the presence of gastrointestinal parasites (χ2 = 56.79; p < 0.001), stressed physical activity (χ2 = 28.53; p < 0.001), and summer season (χ2 = 7.83; p < 0.01) were the risk factors for colic. We further reported that 185 (98.93%) patients who received the following medical interventions recovered: injection of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was necessary, Vitamin B complex (χ2 = 39.98; p < 0.001), fluid therapy (χ2 = 92.99; p < 0.001), and gastric intubation (χ2 = 4.09; p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The importance of colic was demonstrated in 187 (83.86%) of the 223 horses investigated in Tuban, Indonesia, documented. In this study, recommendations for medical procedures when colic risk factors have been determined are presented.

Keywords: colic, domesticated animals, horse, risk factors, therapeutic management.
Isolation and genetic characterization of waterfowl parvovirus in ducks in Northern Vietnam
Authors: Huong Nguyen Thi , Hieu Dong Van , Bich Nguyen Thi , Khanh Tran Van , Ba Nguyen Thanh , Xuan Chu Thi Ngoc , Hien Quach Thi Minh , Thai Truong Ha , Huong Chu Thi Thanh
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim: Short beak and dwarfism syndrome (SBDS), a highly contagious disease, has been reported in duck farms in Vietnam since 2019. In this study, we evaluated the virulence and characterized the virus obtained from SBDS cases in North Vietnam.

Materials and Methods: Polymerase chain reaction was used to detect waterfowl parvovirus in ducks, and the virus from positive samples was inoculated into 10-day-old duck-embryonated eggs to reproduce the disease in young ducklings to determine the virulence and subjected to phylogenetic analysis of non-structural (NS) and VP1 gene sequences.

Results: Goose parvovirus (GPV) was isolated from ducks associated with SDBS in Vietnam. The virus Han-GPV2001 is highly virulent when inoculated into 10-day-old duck embryos and 3-day-old ducklings. The mortality rate of duck embryos was 94.35% within 6 days of virus inoculation. Inoculating 3-day-old ducks with the virus stock with 104.03 EID50 through intramuscular and neck intravenous administration resulted in 80% and 66.67% of clinical signs of SDBS, respectively, were shown. Phylogenetic analysis based on the partial NS and VP1 gene sequences revealed that the viral isolate obtained in this study belonged to novel GPV (NGPV) and was closely related to previous Vietnamese and Chinese strains.

Conclusion: A GPV strain, Han-GPV2001, has been successfully isolated and has virulence in duck-embryonated eggs as well as caused clinical signs of SBDS in ducks. Phylogenetic analyses of partial genes encoding NS and capsid proteins indicated that the obtained GPV isolate belongs to the NGPV group.

Keywords: Goose parvovirus, isolation, phylogenetic analysis, Vietnam, virulence.
A Systems Approach to Increasing the Potential of Wheat in Delivering the UK's Sustainable Healthy Diets, and Food and Nutrition Security
Authors: Espino Apple
Published: May 2024

Recent and important perspectives have emphasized the role of wheat in human nutrition and health and the potential contribution of whole wheat grains in improving diets and food systems worldwide. The UK government-commissioned National Food Strategy has highlighted the urgency for the national-scale transformation of the food systems for improved human and planetary health. To support the direction of this goal, it is imperative to evaluate the contribution of population diets and the UK’s key food crop to this transition and scrutinize its associated sociodemographic driver, sustainability impacts and entry points for interventions. Taking a sustainable diet perspective, our work aims to examine the socioeconomic and health impacts of UK diets using two public (National Diet and Nutrition Survey and Living Costs and Food Survey) food expenditure and diet datasets and assess the role of key food groups (whole grains, vegetables and fruits, dairy foods, and protein foods) in achieving sustainable diets and nutrition security in the UK. Further, using a systems approach, this work aims to identify conflicts or synergies in objectives and strategies across, or trade-offs between, food systems actors, value chains, and drivers in the wheat supply chain. Finally, recognising the need to meet future food demand for wheat, our work aims to identify resilient agricultural production systems that deliver on needed yield and nutrient composition for wheat and understand the trade-offs with other production systems. Our work is built on evidence of the significance of adopting a systems approach and taking a sustainable diet perspective in understanding and transforming any agrifood system.
Sterile Cerebrospinal Fluid Ascites With High Serum Ascites Albumin Gradient Treated With Acetazolamide
Authors: Rosario Lora Dauris , Post Zoë , Mitchell Justin E.
Published: May 2024

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) ascites is a rare cause of ascites that presents in patients with ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts, treated by conversion to a ventriculoatrial shunt. Our case describes a patient presenting with CSF ascites almost 40 years after VP shunt placement, with fluid analysis showing elevated serum ascites albumin gradient, and response to acetazolamide therapy. As shown in this case, CSF ascites can present with elevated serum ascites albumin gradient and should be kept a differential diagnosis. Acetazolamide can be considered as a potential alternative treatment in patients who are not candidates for a VP to ventriculoatrial shunt conversion.
Validación psicométrica de un diccionario para medir emociones intergrupales en un contexto político
Authors: Arias-Orjuela Carlos Andrés , Carvajal-Builes Juan Camilo , Barreto-Galeano María Idaly , Sabucedo-Cameselle José Manuel
Published: May 2024

Introducción: el estudio de las emociones intergrupales ha sido foco de atención en las últimas décadas para explicar su incidencia en los fenómenos de participación política, decisión electoral, protesta social y acciones colectivas, entre otros. No obstante, aún existe evidencia contradictoria sobre el papel de las emociones en las actitudes y los comportamientos políticos, por lo que se requieren medidas fiables para su investigación. En la actualidad se cuenta con múltiples herramientas de medición que se vinculan a las innovadoras estrategias digitales de comunicación política, entre las que están los diccionarios especializados para la detección del lenguaje emocional y sus diferentes valencias (Garzón et al., 2020). No obstante, se requiere ampliar la evidencia de validez de nuevos corpus lingüísticos que amplíen los diccionarios existentes en español para clasificar las narrativas de los discursos políticos. Este estudio se propone validar una herramienta que permita hacer análisis lingüísticos en contextos políticos. Método: se realizó un estudio instrumental y se analizaron narrativas de gobernantes de 14 países latinoamericanos, los cuales se escogieron por el idioma español del diccionario para establecer medidas de validez de constructo y convergencia. Resultados: existencia de cuatro componentes factoriales (dos positivos y dos negativos) que agrupan las emociones intergrupales, aumentando el número de las existentes y delimitándolas en el contexto político. Conclusiones: si bien se aportan elementos para hacer estudios a partir de emociones intergrupales relacionadas específicamente con un contexto político, es importante señalar que pueden abordarse en diferentes dimensiones para una visión más holística, en el entendido de que las variables socioculturales y de coyuntura política pueden determinar errores, de ser abordadas desde una sola perspectiva metodológica.
Empirical Approaches to the Performance Analysis of New Music
Authors: Jones Gabriel
Published: May 2024

New Music inherently challenges norms of performance practice, expression, interpretation, perception, and audience reception. Given the centrality of these themes to musical performance studies and the significant recording and performance traditions of many works of New Music, it is surprising that so little attention has thus far been dedicated to this repertoire. In response to this lacuna and Clarke and Doffman’s (2014) prospective paradigm for a performance studies of New Music, this article offers a close reading of the relatively limited empirical performance literature, highlighting the novel and varied epistemological affordances of the works in question, with consideration for repertoire chosen; selection of recordings; methodological approaches; themes addressed; the relevance of score analysis; the role of the performer; and the import of the research for audiences. I then contribute my own practice-based research on Stockhausen’s Klavierstück X (1961), illustrating the creative potential of self-reflexive performance analysis for performers of complex music. I thus offer a state of play for empirical research, while showcasing further aims and objectives, allied to the peculiar exigencies, performance ecologies, and aesthetic qualities of New Music
Creative and social intentions in research proposals of music performance students. A reality check of curriculum discourse in higher music education.
Authors: Craenen Paul
Published: May 2024

Transformations in global culture and changing priorities in education policy have led to several waves of curriculum reforms in higher music education in recent decades. There have been attempts to integrate elements of research, entrepreneurship and student-centred learning into curricular frameworks that traditionally focused on achieving artistic excellence through master apprentice learning models. Recently, the emphasis in curriculum design seems to be shifting towards the potential role of performing musicians as creative and engaged ‘makers in society’. In this essay, I place recent attempts in higher music education to support a more creative and socially engaged profile of the performing musician within broader trends in cultural and educational discourse, and make a comparison with developments in artistic research and music performance studies. Based on an analysis of creative and social intentions in research proposals of 291 music performance students at the Royal Conservatoire in The Hague, I explore whether and how the proposed concept of the music performer as ‘maker in society’ resonates with the upcoming generation of classically trained musicians, and discuss what can be learned from this for the role of artistic research in curriculum innovation.
Histomorfometri Arteri Koronaria Hewan Model Resistensi Insulin Pasca Pemberian Serbuk Kunyit (Curcuma longa) dan Telur Puyuh (Coturnix coturnix japonica)
Authors: Wardani Ikhnu Pawestri , Tana Silvana , Saraswati Tyas Rini
Published: May 2024

Resistensi insulin merupakan awal dari prediabetes, menyebabkan absorbsi glukosa oleh sel menurun. Tubuh melakukan glukoneogenesis untuk mempertahankan kadar glukosa agar tetap normal. Glukoneogenesis yang terus menerus menyebabkan hiperglikemia yang beresiko aterosklerosis. Serbuk kunyit dapat menghambat aterosklerosis melalui mekanisme antioksidan. Telur puyuh tinggi HDL dan β-karoten dapat melakukan jalur balik transportasi kolesterol dan antiinflamasi. Penelitian bertujuan untuk mengetahui dan menganalisis pengaruh serbuk kunyit dan telur puyuh terhadap histomorfometri arteri koronaria hewan model resistensi insulin. Penelitian menggunakan rancangan acak lengkap dengan 5 perlakuan dan 8 ulangan. Langkah kerja penelitian yaitu aklimasi hewan model, penyiapan tikus resistensi insulin, pemeliharaan puyuh dan produksi telur, pemberian perlakuan terhadap hewan model, pembuatan preparat histologi dengan metode parafin, dan analisis data menggunakan uji ANOVA yang dilanjutkan uji Duncan. Hasil penelitian didapatkan bahwa D1 berbeda signifikan terhadap D0, D2, D3, dan D4. Serbuk kunyit dan telur puyuh mampu mengurangi plak pada arteri koronaria. Serbuk kunyit memiliki efek antioksidan, telur puyuh memiliki kandungan HDL yang tinggi dan β-karoten. Kesimpulan penelitian yaitu pemberian serbuk kunyit dan telur puyuh efektif dalam memperbaiki status resistensi insulin.  Insulin resistance is the beginning of prediabetes, which causes decreased ability of cells to absorb glucose. The body performs gluconeogenesis to maintain normal glucose levels. Continuous gluconeogenesis causes hyperglycemia which is at risk of atherosclerosis. Turmeric powder can inhibit atherosclerosis through antioxidant mechanisms. Quail eggs contain high HDL and β-carotene can reverse cholesterol transport and anti-inflammatory pathways. This study aims to determine and analyze the effect of turmeric powder and quail eggs on the histomorphometry of the coronary arteries in insulin resistance models. The study used a completely randomized design with 5 treatments and 8 replications. The steps of the research were acclimation of animal models, preparation of insulin resistance rats, quail rearing and egg production, treatment of animal models, preparation of histology preparations using paraffin method, and data analysis using ANOVA test followed by Duncan's test. The results showed that D1 was significantly different from D0, D2, D3, and D4. Turmeric powder and quail eggs can reduce plaque in the coronary arteries. Turmeric powder has an antioxidant effect, quail eggs have a high content of HDL and  β-carotene. The conclusion of the study is treatment with turmeric powder and quail eggs is effective in improving insulin resistance status.
Karakteristik Stomata dan Trikoma Lima Spesies Gulma Familia Asteraceae di Waduk Pendidikan Universitas Diponegoro
Authors: Julianti Mentari Annissa , Darmanti Sri , Haryanti Sri
Published: May 2024

Familia Asteraceae merupakan kelompok tanaman dengan kemampuan adaptasi tinggi. Hal tersebut didukung oleh karakteristik struktur stomata dan trikomanya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui karakteristik stomata dan trikoma lima spesies gulma dari familia Asteraceae yang tumbuh di Waduk Pendidikan Universitas Diponegoro. Kelima spesies gulma tersebut adalah Bandotan (Ageratum conyzoides L.), Kirinyuh (Chromolaena odorata L.), Ketul (Bidens pilosa L.), Gletang (Tridax procumbens L.), dan Sawilangit (Vernonia cinerea L.). Preparat anatomi epidermis daun dibuat dengan metode free-hand section. Data kualitatif dianalisis secara deskriptif, sedang  data kuantitatif dianalisis dengan uji T. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa karakterisik stomata kelima spesies adalah stoma tipe anomositik, sel penutup berbentuk ginjal, dan letak stoma amfistomatik. Panjang stoma, lebar stoma dan densitas stomata bervariasi di kedua permukaan daun. Pada kelima spesies trikoma multiseluler dengan bentuk bervariasi diantara spesies. Trikoma non-glanduler ditemukan pada kelima spesies, sedangkan trikoma glanduler hanya terdapat pada B. pilosa L. Panjang dan densitas trikoma pada kelima spesies bervariasi di kedua permukaan daun. Hal tersebut menunjukkan bahwa berdasarkan stomanya, B. Pilosa L. mempunyai karakter yang paling berbeda diantara ke lima species tersebut.  The Asteraceae family is a group of plants with high adaptability. This is supported by the structural characteristics of the stomata and trichomes. This research aims to determine the characteristics of the stomata and trichomes of five weed species from the Asteraceae family that grow in the Diponegoro University Education Reservoir. The five weed species are Bandotan (Ageratum conyzoides L.), Kirinyuh (Chromolaena odorata L.), Ketul (Bidens pilosa L.), Gletang (Tridax procumbens L.), and Sawilangit (Vernonia cinerea L.). Anatomical  leaf epidermis preparations were made using the free-hand section method. Qualitative data were analyzed descriptively, while quantitative data were analyzed using the T test. The results showed that the characteristics of the stomata of the five species were anomocytic stoma, kidney-shaped guard cells, and amphistomatic stoma location. Stoma length, stoma width and stoma density vary on both leaf surfaces. In the five species the trichomes are multicellular with varying shapes between species. Non-glandular trichomes were found in all five species, while glandular trichomes were only found in B. pilosa L.. The length and density of trichomes in the five species varied on both leaf surfaces. This shows that based on its stoma, B. Pilosa L. has the most different characters among the five species.