bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysing biomarkers in oral fluid from pigs: influence of collection strategy and age of the pig
Authors: Ornelas Mario Andre S. , López‑Martínez María José , Franco-Martínez Lorena , Cerón José J. , Ortín-Bustillo Alba , Rubio Camila Peres , Manzanilla Edgar Garcia
Published: August 2023

Background and objectives

Oral fluid (OF) is an easy-to-collect, inexpensive, fast and non-invasive sample to characterize health and welfare status of the pig. However, further standardisation of the collection methods is needed in order to use it regularly in veterinary practice. Cotton ropes are routinely used to collect OF for pathogen detection but they may not be optimal for biomarker analysis due to sample contamination. This study compared two methods (cotton ropes and sponges) to collect porcine OF for biomarker analysis. A panel of 11 biomarkers of stress, inflammation, sepsis, immunity, redox status and general homeostasis was studied.

Materials and methods

Eighteen farrow-to-finish pig farms were included in the study. In each farm, three (for sponges) or four pens of pigs (for ropes) were sampled at four age categories: the week after weaning (5 weeks), before (11–12 weeks) and after (12–13 weeks) moving to finisher facility and the week before slaughter (22–25 weeks). In total, 288 OF samples were collected with cotton ropes and 216 with sponges and analysed for the biomarkers: cortisol, alpha-amylase, oxytocin (stress), haptoglobin (inflammation), procalcitonin (sepsis), adenosine deaminase, immunoglobulin G (immune system), ferric reducing antioxidant power (redox status), and creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase and total protein (general homeostasis). Samples were also scored visually for dirtiness using a score from 1 (clean) to 5 (very dirty).

Results

Rope-collected OF had higher levels of dirtiness (3.7 ± 0.04) compared to sponge-collected OF (2.7 ± 0.15) and had higher values than sponges for cortisol, procalcitonin, oxytocin, haptoglobin, total protein, lactate dehydrogenase and ferric reducing antioxidant power. All biomarkers decreased in value with age. Immunoglobulin G did not perform well for any of the two collection methods.

Discussion and conclusion

The results showed a clear effect of age on the biomarkers in OF collected with both, sponges or ropes. Sponges provided a cleaner sample than cotton ropes for biomarker analysis. Both methods are easy to apply under the commercial conditions in pig farms although sponges may take more time in early weaner stages. From a practical point of view, sampling with sponges achieved the best combination of reduced sampling time and low contamination.
Role of micro-RNAs 21, 124 and other novel biomarkers in distinguishing between group 1 WHO pulmonary hypertension and group 2, 3 WHO pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Dimitry Mark O. , Soliman Youssef M. A. , ElKorashy Reem I. , Raslan Hala M. , Kamel Solaf A. , Hassan Eman M. , Ahmed Fatma Elzahraa , Yousef Rasha N. , Awadallah Eman A.
Published: August 2023

Background

Pulmonary hypertension “PH” is considered a serious cardiovascular disease. World Health Organization divided PH into groups depending on many factors like pathological, hemodynamic, and clinical pictures. Lately, various micro-RNAs “miRNAs” and other novel biomarkers like endoglin and asymmetric dimethylarginine “ADMA” might have a role in diagnosis of PH and may differentiate between pulmonary arterial hypertension “PAH” and non-PAH. The purpose of the study is to show the role of miR-21, miR-124, endoglin and ADMA in the diagnosis of PH and distinguishing between WHO group 1 PH and WHO group 2 and 3 PH and to identify patients who might benefit from non-invasive and inexpensive tools to diagnose PAH.

Results

miR-21 was upregulated in group 1 PH, and there was significant difference between group 1 PH as compared with group 2 PH, group 3 PH and control; miR-124 was down-regulated in group 1 PH with highly significant difference between group 1 and group 2 PH and control but no significant difference with group 3 PH, endoglin was elevated in group 1 PH with a significant difference as compared to group 2 PH, group 3 PH and control. ADMA was elevated in group 1 PH as compared to control; however, there was no significant difference between it and group 2, 3 PH.

Conclusions

miR-21, miR-124, endoglin and ADMA are good biomarkers to diagnose PH; however, only miR-21 and endoglin could distinguish group 1 PH from group 2 and 3 PH.
Meta-analysis of microarray and RNAseq data reveal OsbZIP52 to mediate salt stress responses in sensitive, tolerant and halophyte rice varieties
Authors: Chatterjee Dipankor , Shohan Mohammad Umer Sharif , Tamanna Nishat , Seraj Zeba I.
Published: August 2023

The development of salt-tolerant rice has become urgent due to climate change and rising global rice consumption. A large-scale analysis using different but related platforms has become imperative to filter out candidate genes responsible for salinity tolerance and salinity stress-responsive pathways. Such genes can be used to find prospective candidate salt resistance genes in donor rice genotypes and transfer them to high-yielding rice varieties. We performed a meta-analysis to screen out candidate genes using stress-related three microarray and one RNASeq datasets from NCBI. As different genotypes of rice and different salinity stress conditions were considered in our analysis, the sensitivity of the results is expected to be multi-fold higher. Our analysis revealed the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) OsbZIP52 and OsLTP2.5 to be common between leaf and root tissues. These genes were further compared with those of the wild halophytic rice Oryza coarctata expression data in stress conditions to understand the significance of these genes. The OsbZIP52 gene homolog of Oryza coarctata was the only one found to be differentially expressed. The expression level of OsbZIP52 was quantified using RT-qPCR and observed downregulated expression in salt stress in root and leaf tissues of four rice cultivars (2 salt-tolerant and 2 salt-sensitive). Promoter and motif analysis revealed a high number of variations in promoter and motif regions of the gene in IR29 salt-sensitive rice. Expression correlation analysis and Gene Ontology study suggested that OsbZIP52 interacts with genes that are engaged in stress response and participate in stress-responsive pathways. Collectively this study increases our understanding of the differential gene expression in various stress conditions in root and leaf tissues. It also helped identify a critical regulatory transcription factor in assisting the plant in combating salinity stress.
Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy Strategies in Patients with Unresectable or Borderline Resectable Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Evidence for a Lack of Focus on Resection Rates
Authors: Zmuc Jan , Heil Jan , Herfarth Caroline , Bechstein Wolf O. , Koch Christine , Trojan Jörg , Schnitzbauer Andreas A.
Published: August 2023

Background and aims

Chemotherapy (CTx) with targeted therapy (TT) have increased the overall response rate (ORR) and improved survival in unresectable or borderline resectable metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). However, the resection rate is an endpoint with often suboptimal expert involvement. The aim was to investigate whether the improvements in ORR have translated to improved resection rates (RR).

Study design

A systematic literature search was performed using the PICO process.

Statistical analysis

Odds ratios, and 95% confidence intervals (OR, 95% CI) were analyzed for ORR and RR using dichotomous values with the Mantel-Haenszel method. Progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) were analyzed using the inverse-variance method and displayed as hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals (HR, 95% CI).

Results

The literature search returned 469 records. Sixteen articles with 5724 patients were selected for analysis. The qualitative analysis revealed low and moderate risk of bias endpoints. Higher ORR was observed with CTx + TT versus CTx only (OR: 0.62 [95% CI 0.45; 0.82], p = 0.002) and with triplet CTx + TT versus doublet CTx + TT (OR: 0.61 [95% CI 0.46; 0.81], p < 0.001). PFS and OS were improved by use of TT (HR: 0.68–0.84; p < 0.001 to 0.04). The overall RR was low (< 15%) and did not improve in the same way as the other endpoints.

Conclusion

The ORR and survival rates in unresectable and borderline resectable mCRC were improved by modern CTx and TT that did not translate into higher RR, mostly due to the lack of expert involvement.
Case Report: Pleural effusion in Wilms tumor – always malignant?
Authors: Vagha Keta , Zeeshan Jameel Patel , Vagha Jayant , Varma Ashish R. , Rao Rupesh
Published: August 2023

Wilms tumor (WT) is the most common renal malignancy seen in pediatric patients. Although lungs are the most common site of metastasis in Wilms tumor, non-malignant pleural effusion has been infrequently reported. Here, we report a case of an eleven-year-old female who presented with an abdominal mass and progressive breathlessness. On further evaluation, she was found to have a right-sided Wilms tumor with ipsilateral massive pleural effusion. The effusion resolved almost completely after four weeks of chemotherapy. We conclude that patients suffering from Wilms tumor presenting with pleural effusion need not be synonymous with metastatic disease and can have a favorable prognosis.
Case Report: Synchronous primary location of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) and adenocarcinoma of the colon: an unusual occurrence
Authors: Sghaier Asma , El Ghali Amine , Fradi Khalil , Chiba Dorra , Hamila Fehmi , Youssef Sabri
Published: August 2023

Background: We have little knowledge about the synchronous occurrence of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) and other types of histologic tumors. This association is very rare.

Case presentation: We describe a case of synchronous stromal tumor and adenocarcinoma of the left side colonic localization. Immunohistochemistry identified c-Kit expression. The discovery of colonic adenocarcinoma was on operative specimen after histologic examination. The patient underwent left carcinologic colectomy with stoma. Follow-up at one year postoperatively did not detect tumor recurrence.

Discussion: Clinical implications of the association between these two neoplasms are not clearly described. Treatment depends on the dominance of one histologic type. Knowledge of the genetic data of this association offers opportunity of treatment with the new targeted-therapy molecules. Surgical resection, may remain the curative treatment.

Conclusions: Synchronous adenocarcinoma and GIST has been more commonly described in the stomach.  The pathogeneses of tumorigenesis may not be the same for the two tumors. More studies seem be necessary to clarify a potential role of different genes in the development of adenocarcinomas. And therefore, above all their therapeutic implications
UNICORNS: Uveitis in childhood prospective national cohort study protocol
Authors: Kellett Salomey , Rahi Jugnoo S , Dick Andrew D. , Knowles Rachel , Tadić Valerija , Solebo Ameenat Lola
Published: August 2023

Background: Childhood uveitis is a rare inflammatory eye disease which is typically chronic, relapsing-remitting in nature, with an uncertain aetiology (idiopathic). Visual loss occurs due to structural damage caused by uncontrolled inflammation. Understanding of the determinants of long term outcome is lacking, including the predictors of therapeutic response or how to define disease control.

Aims: To describe disease natural history and outcomes amongst a nationally representative group of children with non-infectious uveitis, describe the impact of disease course on quality of life for both child and family, and identify determinants of adverse visual, structural and developmental outcomes.

Methods: UNICORNS is a prospective longitudinal multicentre cohort study of children newly diagnosed with uveitis about whom a core minimum clinical dataset will be collected systematically. Participants and their families will also complete patient-reported outcome measures annually from recruitment. The association of patient (child- and treatment- dependent) characteristics with outcome will be investigated using logistic and ordinal regression models which incorporate adjustment for within-child correspondence between eyes for those with bilateral disease and repeated outcomes measurement. 

Discussion: Through this population based, prospective longitudinal study of childhood uveitis, we will describe the characteristics of childhood onset disease. Early (1-2 years following diagnosis) outcomes will be described in the first instance, and through the creation of a national inception cohort, longer term studies will be enabled of outcome for affected children and families.
Medical mentorship deconstructed: an analysis and structural recommendation for high value mentorship
Authors: Kim Duane , Manzo Rosa D. , Montoya Michael , Nguyen Marissa , Vang Kao Houa , Weber Lindsey , Yepez Marisela
Published: August 2023

Background: Mentorship is an important component for young students interested in pursuing a career in medicine. In medically underserved areas, such as rural areas, mentorship can be sparse due to the lack of access to healthcare professionals. The purpose of this project was to gain an understanding of the mentorship received by practicing medical students.

Methods: The authors conducted structured, one-on-one interviews with 10 current medical students about their perceptions and experiences with mentorship. Interviews were transcribed, coded, and analyzed for themes and subthemes.

Results: Our findings revolve around three time periods of mentorship: 1) Before Obtaining a Mentor; 2) During the Mentorship; and 3) After the Mentorship.  In our findings we describe key characteristics such as professional development, personal qualities of the mentor, and professional and personal guidance as important components in guiding the mentee starting from the undergraduate level and continuing to their current level of education. 

Conclusion: Interviewees’ experiences with and perspectives on the mentorship they received were generally positive, though it was evident there are some aspects of the mentee-mentor relationship that can be improved. Building on the results obtained, setting expectations, providing mentor training, and pairing mentors/mentees from similar backgrounds are what we propose to create fulfilling and meaningful relationships between a mentee and mentor.
Pedagogical conditions for forming the readiness of future specialists in computer technologies to professional activity
Authors: Hiltai Lesia
Published: August 2023

The study is devoted to the actual problem of training and professional self-improvement of future specialists in computer technologies in institutions of higher education. An analysis of pedagogical conditions for the professional self-improvement of future computer technology specialists, which contribute to the formation of the readiness of future computer technology specialists for professional activity, was carried out, the essence of the concept of «Pedagogical conditions» was clarified. The work considers pedagogical strategies, aspects and approaches aimed at developing the competencies of future specialists, including technical, communicative, analytical and creative skills. The structural components, criteria, methods, means, and approaches are determined, the methodological approaches of forming the readiness of future computer technology specialists for professional self-improvement are substantiated.

The results of the study can contribute to the improvement of educational programs, methods and approaches in the training of future specialists in computer technologies that meet the requirements of the labor market and the technological challenges of today.
Treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation of the shoulder in adults - press review
Authors: Wojcik Bartlomiej , Świąder Kinga , Van der Bend Kalina , Lis Agata
Published: August 2023

Introduction:  Acromioclavicular joint dislocation is one of the most common shoulder injuries treated in a sport‐active population. In this article we reviewed the epidemiology, symptoms, and various surgical techniques for the treatment of acromioclavicular dislocation.

Material and methods: The work was based on medical articles collected in PubMed, websites and medical books. The research was conducted by looking at keywords such as: "acromioclaviculal dislocation", "treatment of acromioclaviculal dislocation ".

Results: There are many methods of treating acromioclaviculal dislocation, ranging from conservative treatment to surgical treatment.

Conclusions: Treating acute and chronic ACJ injuries is still a challenging task.The myriad of existing techniques is indicative for the uncertainty regarding this topic and a gold standard has not yet been determined. However, when diagnosed correctly and treated accordingly, results are overall satisfactory.
Voluntary Disclosure, Moral Hazard, and Default Risk
Authors: Fu Shiming , Trigilia Giulio
Published: August 2023

We study a dynamic moral hazard setting where the manager has private evidence that predicts the firm’s cash flows. Bad-news disclosure is rewarded by a lower borrowing cost relative to the no-evidence case, whereas no disclosure leads to higher borrowing costs. For a given capital structure, disclosure reduces the firm’s default risk by lowering its pay-for-performance sensitivity. However, for a set of low-profitability firms, the anticipation of future disclosure of information by managers lowers both firm value and managerial rents at the financing stage because of a reduction in the firm’s initial liquidity. The model can reconcile the empirical evidence on the effects of providing earnings guidance, especially for loss firms.

This paper was accepted by Bruno Biais, finance.

Funding: S. Fu is supported by the Shanghai Pujiang Program and the Program for Professor of Special Appointment (Eastern Scholar) at Shanghai Institutions of Higher Learning [Grant 0900000182].

Supplemental Material: The data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.4860 .
Intrinsic polarity inversion in III-nitride waveguides for efficient nonlinear interactions
Authors: Gromovyi M. , Bhat N. , Tronche H. , Baldi P. , Kurdi M. EL , Checoury X. , Damilano B. , Boucaud P.
Published: August 2023

III-nitrides provide a versatile platform for nonlinear photonics. In this work, we explore a new promising configuration – composite waveguides containing GaN and AlN layers with inverted polarity, i.e., having opposite signs of the χ(2) nonlinear coefficient. This configuration allows us to address the limiting problem of the mode overlap for nonlinear interactions. Our modelling predicts a significant improvement in the conversion efficiency. We confirm our theoretical prediction with the experimental demonstration of second harmonic generation with an efficiency of 4%W-1cm-2 using a simple ridge waveguide. This efficiency is an order of magnitude higher compared to the previously reported results for III-nitride waveguides. Further improvement, reaching a theoretical efficiency of 30%W-1cm-2, can be achieved by reducing propagation losses.
Optical limiter based on PT-symmetry breaking of reflectionless modes
Authors: Riboli Francesco , Kononchuk Rodion , Tommasi Federico , Boschetti Alice , Suwunnarat Suwun , Anisimov Igor , Vitebskiy Ilya , Wiersma Diederik S. , Cavalieri Stefano , Kottos Tsampikos , Chabanov Andrey A.
Published: August 2023

The application of parity–time (PT) symmetry in optics, especially PT-symmetry breaking, has attracted considerable attention as an approach to controlling light propagation. Here, we report optical limiting by two coupled optical cavities with a PT-symmetric spectrum of reflectionless modes. The optical limiting is related to broken PT symmetry due to light-induced changes in one of the cavities. Our experimental implementation involves a three-mirror resonator of alternating layers of ZnS and cryolite with a PT-symmetric spectral degeneracy of two reflectionless modes. The passive optical limiting is demonstrated by measurements of single 532 nm 6 ns laser pulses and thermo-optical simulations. At fluences below 10mJ/cm2, the multilayer exhibits a flattop passband at 532 nm. At higher fluences, laser heating combined with the thermo-optic effect in ZnS leads to cavity detuning and PT-symmetry breaking of the reflectionless modes. As a result, the entire multilayer structure quickly becomes highly reflective, protecting itself from laser-induced damage. The cavity detuning mechanism can differ at much higher limiting thresholds and include nonlinearity.
Changes in relationship satisfaction in the transition to parenthood among fathers
Authors: Mack Judith T. , Brunke Lena , Staudt Andreas , Kopp Marie , Weise Victoria , Garthus-Niegel Susan
Published: August 2023

To date, research on the transition to parenthood and associated changes in relationship satisfaction (RS) has focused predominantly on mothers with their firstborn. This study targeted fathers to investigate their trajectories of RS with a particular focus on emerging differences between first- and second-time fathers. It furthermore considered various predictors such as the role of age, education, income, duration of relationship, marital status, child’s biological sex, and child temperament. Data from a total of 606 fathers from the prospective longitudinal cohort study DREAM were analyzed. The analyses included assessments of four measurement time points (T1: prepartum; T2–T4: postpartum) over a period of more than 2 years. Latent growth curve modeling was applied with RS as the dependent variable and number of children as one of eight predictors of growth over time. First-time fathers showed higher initial RS, however experienced a steeper decline in the transition to parenthood than second-time fathers. At 8 weeks postpartum, first-time fathers still reported higher RS than second-time fathers. While RS continued to decline for first-time fathers up until 14 months postpartum, second-time fathers experienced an increase in RS. At 14 months and 2 years postpartum, second-time fathers showed higher RS scores than first-time fathers. Similar to first-time mothers, first-time fathers seem to experience a stronger RS decline during the transition to parenthood than second-time fathers, suggesting that especially couples becoming parents for the first time should be prepared for expected changes in their relationship.
Deep learning classification of shoulder fractures on plain radiographs of the humerus, scapula and clavicle
Authors: Magnéli Martin , Ling Petter , Gislén Jacob , Fagrell Johan , Demir Yilmaz , Arverud Erica Domeij , Hallberg Kristofer , Salomonsson Björn , Gordon Max
Published: August 2023

In this study, we present a deep learning model for fracture classification on shoulder radiographs using a convolutional neural network (CNN). The primary aim was to evaluate the classification performance of the CNN for proximal humeral fractures (PHF) based on the AO/OTA classification system. Secondary objectives included evaluating the model’s performance for diaphyseal humerus, clavicle, and scapula fractures. The training dataset consisted of 6,172 examinations, including 2–7 radiographs per examination. The overall area under the curve (AUC) for fracture classification was 0.89, indicating good performance. For PHF classification, 12 out of 16 classes achieved an AUC of 0.90 or greater. Additionally, the CNN model had excellent overall AUC for diaphyseal humerus fractures (0.97), clavicle fractures (0.96), and good AUC for scapula fractures (0.87). Despite the limitations of the study, such as the reliance on ground truth labels provided by students with limited radiographic assessment experience, our findings are in concordance with previous studies, further consolidating CNN as potent fracture classifiers in plain radiographs. The inclusion of multiple radiographs with different views from each examination, as well as the generally unselected nature of the sample, contributed to the overall generalizability of the study. This is the fifth study published by our group on AI in orthopaedic radiographs, which has consistently shown promising results. The next challenge for the orthopaedic research community will be to transfer these results from the research setting into clinical practice. External validation of the CNN model should be conducted in the future before it is considered for use in a clinical setting.
A novel drug specific mRNA biomarker predictor for selection of patients responding to dovitinib treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma and other solid tumors
Authors: Knudsen Steen , Hansen Anker , Foegh Marie , Petersen Steen , Mekonnen Hana , Jia Lin , Shah Preeti , Martin Victoria , Frykman Gregory , Pili Roberto
Published: August 2023

Purpose

Dovitinib is a receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor of VEGFR1-3, PDGFR, FGFR1/3, c-KIT, FLT3 and topoisomerase 1 and 2. The drug response predictor (DRP) biomarker algorithm or DRP-Dovitinib is being developed as a companion diagnostic to dovitinib and was applied retrospectively.

Patients and methods

Archival tumor samples were obtained from consenting patients in a phase 3 trial comparing dovitinib to sorafenib in renal cell carcinoma patients and the DRP-Dovitinib was applied. The biomarker algorithm combines the expression of 58 messenger RNAs relevant to thein vitrosensitivity or resistance to dovitinib, including genes associated with FGFR, PDGF, VEGF, PI3K/Akt/mTOR and topoisomerase pathways as well as ABC drug transport, and provides a likelihood score between 0–100%.

Results

The DRP-Dovitinib divided the dovitinib treated RCC patients into two groups, sensitive (n = 49, DRP score >50%) or resistant (n = 86, DRP score ≤ 50%) to dovitinib. The DRP sensitive population was compared to the unselected sorafenib arm (n = 286). Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 3.8 months in the DRP sensitive dovitinib arm and 3.6 months in the sorafenib arm (hazard ratio 0.71, 95% CI 0.51–1.01). Median overall survival (OS) was 15.0 months in the DRP sensitive dovitinib arm and 11.2 months in the sorafenib arm (hazard ratio 0.69, 95% CI 0.48–0.99). The observed clinical benefit increased with increasing DRP score. At a cutoff of 67% the median OS was 20.6 months and the median PFS was 5.7 months in the dovitinib arm. The results were confirmed in five smaller phase II trials of dovitinib which showed a similar trend.

Conclusion

The DRP-Dovitinib shows promise as a potential biomarker for identifying advanced RCC patients most likely to experience clinical benefit from dovitinib treatment, subject to confirmation in an independent prospective trial of dovitinib in RCC patients.
Associations between physical activity patterns and quality of life in persons with type 2 diabetes: A cross sectional study
Authors: Abonie Ulric Sena , Ofori ‐ Ampomah Ama Kissiwaa , Makinyi Vincent , Addo Raphael Aseye , Kumah Laureen
Published: August 2023

Background

Type 2 diabetes is a major health problem globally and particularly in Ghana. Regular physical activity is important in the management of type 2 diabetes and in improving quality of life of persons with type 2 diabetes. However, there is a lack of data reporting on how physical activity relate to quality of life in persons with diabetes in Ghana. This study explored how physical activity patterns relate to quality of life in persons with type 2 diabetes from a major tertiary hospital in Ghana.

Methods

One hundred and twenty-one (121) persons with type 2 diabetes (age, 30–60 years) filled in questionnaires on their physical activity patterns (time spent in sitting, walking, moderate-intensity activities, and vigorous-intensity activities) and quality of life (diabetes control, anxiety and worry, social burden, sexual functioning, energy and mobility). The relationships between the variables were examined using spearman correlation.

Results

Time spent in sitting, walking, moderate-intensity activities and vigorous-intensity activities were 1677.7±401.5min, 464.1±296.0MET-min, 241.2±65.8MET-min and 1956.5±1251.0MET-min respectively. Walking was negatively related to energy and mobility (r = -.48, p<0.01), sexual functioning (r = -0.44, p<0.01), social burden (r = -0.41, p<0.01) and diabetes control (r = -0.56, p<0.01) domains of quality of life. Vigorous-intensity activities was negatively related to anxiety and worry (r = -0.20, p<0.05).

Conclusions

The results suggests that persons with type 2 diabetes who experience decline in energy and mobility, sexual functioning, and disease management, and heightened social burden, anxiety and worry may benefit from guidance on optimal physical activity behaviour in the form of walking to improve their quality of life.
Can adopting lean startup strategy promote the sustainable development of new ventures? The mediating role of organizational iterative learning
Authors: Zhuge Kai , He Huitao , Yuan Yongzhi , Sun Peiting
Published: August 2023

When high uncertainty becomes the norm in entrepreneurship, entrepreneurial failure often becomes the first natural barrier that new ventures face. In dynamic environment, there is still a lack of clear answers on what strategic orientation new ventures need to adopt to improve organizational learning efficiency and achieve sustainable development. Lean startup theory believes that the entrepreneurial process is also a process where organizational cognition is constantly iterated and updated, which drives entrepreneurs to explore business opportunities through iteration learning and early customer insight. The paper aims to describe and examine the relationship between lean startup strategy, organizational iterative learning, and sustainable development of new ventures. This model is tested on the survey data of R&D departments of 325 technology new ventures in China. The research results show that: lean startup strategy can positively affect sustainable performance of new ventures; organizational iterative learning plays a mediating role in the relationship between lean startup strategy and sustainable development; market dynamics positively moderate the relationship between organizational iterative learning and sustainable development, while technology dynamics negatively moderate this relationship; furthermore, the two also moderate the process of lean startup strategy influencing sustainable development through organizational iterative learning, and that moderated mediating effect is significant. The research results reveal that entrepreneurs should deepen lean startup practices in new business layout, advocate the iteration and output of advanced knowledge, help enterprises establish proprietary knowledge barriers, and achieve sustainable development.
Targeting Filamenting temperature-sensitive mutant Z (FtsZ) with bioactive phytoconstituents: An emerging strategy for antibacterial therapy
Authors: Alotaibi Bader Saud
Published: August 2023

The rise and widespread occurrence of bacterial resistance has created an evident need for novel antibacterial drugs. Filamenting temperature-sensitive mutant Z (FtsZ) is a crucial bacterial protein that forms a ring-like structure known as the Z-ring, playing a significant role in cell division. Targeting FtsZ is an effective approach for developing antibiotics that disrupt bacterial cell division and halt growth. This study aimed to use a virtual screening approach to search for bioactive phytoconstituents with the potential to inhibit FtsZ. The screening process proceeded with the filtering compounds from the IMPPAT library of phytochemicals based on their physicochemical properties using the Lipinski rule of five. This was followed by molecular docking, Pan-assay interference compounds (PAINS) filter, absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET), prediction of activity spectra for biologically active substances (PASS), and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. These filters ensured that any adverse effects that could impede the identification of potential inhibitors of FtsZ were eliminated. Following this, two phytocompounds, Withaperuvin C and Trifolirhizin, were selected after the screening, demonstrating noteworthy binding potential with FtsZ’s GTP binding pocket, acting as potent GTP-competitive inhibitors of FtsZ. The study suggested that these compounds could be further investigated for developing a novel class of antibiotics after required studies.
Neoliberalismo em análise: entrevista com Christian Laval
Authors: Goulart Débora
Published: August 2023

Desde 2004 quando seu livro A escola não é uma empresa foi publicado no Brasil pela primeira vez , a inserção de Christian Laval  no campo educacional cresceu e tem sido uma referência para as pesquisas que buscam acompanhar o desenvolvimento do neoliberalismo após os anos 1990. Nesta entrevista, ele dialoga com outras teorias sobre o neoliberalismo, atualiza algumas questões sobre a educação no atual contexto e aponta para possíveis contribuições sobre o estudo do neoliberalismo após o lançamento do livro A escolha da guerra civil, de 2021. Laval analisa o crescimento da direita no mundo, mostra como a dimensão privada e estatal estão articuladas no neoliberalismo e faz algumas reflexões sobre as possíveis alternativas à racionalidade neoliberal, sempre tendo em vista os processos educacionais.
La práctica docente frente al COVID-19: experiencias y políticas emergenciales en Ecuador y España
Authors: Allen-Perkins Diego , Andrade-Vargas Lucy Deyanira , Frías Campomanes Irene
Published: August 2023

La irrupción en la cotidianidad de la COVID-19 supuso una transformación sin precedentes en los modos de relación a nivel global, que afectó de manera significativa a la educación. Este artículo caracteriza las adaptaciones pedagógicas realizadas por los docentes y directivos durante las etapas de confinamiento y semipresencialidad, con el interés de analizar su viabilidad en contextos de “nueva normalidad”. Para responder a este objetivo, se ha desarrollado una investigación cualitativa con 20 docentes y directivos de instituciones educativas de educación primaria y secundaria de Ecuador y España. A través de entrevistas semiestructuradas y en profundidad, este trabajo explora los problemas y soluciones desplegadas por los docentes y directivos, indagando también en cómo la diversidad de percepciones sobre la práctica se ha modulado de acuerdo a criterios tales como los años de experiencia docente, la competencia digital de los profesores, el régimen de financiación de la institución, la disponibilidad de recursos y el acceso a planes de formación en los centros. El artículo muestra cómo en el caso de España el regreso a la “nueva normalidad” ha significado un retorno a las prácticas centradas en el docente y la exposición magistral de contenidos, incorporando el apoyo puntual de las plataformas digitales. Por su parte, el texto evidencia cómo en Ecuador existe una mayor predisposición al desarrollo de estrategias flexibles, si bien esta se encuentra limitada por la propia capacidad presupuestaria de los centros para ampliar la infraestructura necesaria para garantizar las modalidades híbridas.
Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy May Be Safe in Solid-Organ Transplant Patients With Achalasia
Authors: Hansen Spencer , Hamo Falak , Samo Salih
Published: August 2023

Peroral endoscopy myotomy (POEM) is a safe and effective therapy for achalasia among the general population. However, data regarding its safety and efficacy in organ transplant recipients are lacking. These patients present unique risks and challenges because of chronic immunosuppression. We present 3 cases of successful POEM performed safely for achalasia in patients with previous solid-organ transplantation without interruption of their immunosuppression medications. This case series suggests that POEM may be safe in solid-organ transplant recipients.
Experimental Study of Arc Erosion in Gas-blasting and Free-burning Conditions in High-voltage Circuit Breakers
Authors: Zhou Yannan , Humphries James , Spencer Joseph , Yan Joseph
Published: August 2023

Arc erosion behavior depends on varieties of factors, such as the shape and material of contacts, the gas type and the pressure filled in the chamber. In this contribution, experimental research on the gas-blasting and free-burning conditions was carried out in a model circuit breaker to investigate the gas blowing effect on the mass loss of arcing contacts. SF6 was filled in the chamber and copper-tungsten was used as the contact material. Three different peak current amplitudes (5/20/35kA) were selected, and the average mass loss of plug contact was measured after five consecutive arcing tests. The erosion physical process between arc root and contact material is extremely complex. The mass loss was estimated with four different indexes, which include integral of current squared, thermal stress, transferred electric charge and arc energy. It has been found that the arc energy can be used to represent the degree of arc erosion to relate the gas-blasting and free-burning conditions.
Restitution als poetologischer Grundbegriff bei W. G. Sebald
Authors: Forkel Robert
Published: August 2023

Robert Forkel leistet in seinem Beitrag eine textnahe Analyse und Interpretation von W. G. Sebalds Rede zur Eröffnung des Stuttgarter Literaturhauses im November 2001. Weil Sebald vier Wochen später starb und somit keine Gelegenheit mehr hatte, die darin enthaltenen poetologischen Gedankengänge zu kommentieren und fortzuführen, ist der Text bis heute rätselhaft. Insbesondere seine Zweckbestimmung des literarischen Schreibens als »Versuch der Restitution« hat in der Forschung zahlreiche Fehldeutungen nach sich gezogen. Wie Forkel nachweist, rekurriert diese Formulierung auf Gershom Scholems Hoffnung auf Versöhnung von Deutschen und Juden.
Touristifizierung von Räumen
Authors: Wöhler Karlheinz
Published: August 2023

Karlheinz Wöhler widmet sich in diesem Beitrag der Frage, wie es zur Touristifizierung von Räumen kommt und was dabei zu bedenken ist. Der Tourismus gehört aus dieser Sicht zum Wirtschaftssystem, das wiederum mit dem politischen System strukturell gekoppelt ist. An der Kulturtourismusstrategie für Hamburg wird dies dargelegt. Die Sternschanze wird dort als ein Raum der Destination angesehen, in dem Tourist:innen Kultur erleben können. Was sich beim Erleben ereignet und wie sich dies in Eindrücken und Empfindungen niederschlägt, wird ebenso dargelegt wie die Konstituierung einer Destination. Der einheimischen Kultur wird in diesem Zusammenhang eine touristische Eignung zugeschrieben wird (= Touristibilität). Demnach gibt es quasi zwei Sternschanzen: Die im Kontext der Bewohner und die im Kontext des Tourismus. Die Sternschanze wurde demnach touristifiziert. Generell stellt sich die Frage, ob man von einer Pantouristifizierung ausgehen muss, wenn Städte oder Landschaften fast durchgängig als tourismusgeeignet angesehen und behandelt werden.
Performative Knowledge
Authors: Berg Karen van den , Schmidt-Wulffen Stephan
Published: August 2023

The article discusses the challenges of teaching non-propositional forms of knowledge in higher education and introduces methods, practices and developments involved in teaching embodied and performative forms of knowledge. In so doing, the contribution introduces cases and discusses why the teaching of non-codifiable forms of knowledge requires didactic approaches different from the ordinary lecture hall and seminar room setting and its codes of conduct.
Pflege und Technik
Authors: Wüller Hanna
Published: August 2023

Die Krise, in der sich berufliches Pflegehandeln befindet, führt dazu, dass Krankenhausbetten nicht belegt werden können, da nicht ausreichend Pflegepersonal zur Verfügung steht. Hanna Wüller ordnet diese Situation in die feministischen Debatten im Zuge der Care-Krise ein und macht die Relevanz von Machtverteilungen sowie den Einfluss materieller Aspekte deutlich. Eine Verknüpfung von Pflegewissenschaft, Science and Technology Studies, Neuen Materialismen und der Objektiven Hermeneutik ermöglicht erweiterte theoretische und methodische Zugänge zur Betrachtung dieses Phänomens. Daraus ergeben sich wertvolle Anschlusspunkte sowohl für die Pflegetheorie als auch für deren Praxisentwicklung.
Ruinen-Ästhetik
Authors: Bücking Kevin
Published: August 2023

Die Ästhetik der Ruinen kennzeichnet eine Lust am Paradoxen. Zwischen Natur und Kultur, Erbauung und Zerstörung, Melancholie und Hoffnung, Vergangenheit und Zukunft erscheinen die Ruinen als Spuren der Zeit im Raum der Gegenwart ihrer ästhetischen Begegnung. Kevin Bücking zeigt, inwiefern die Ästhetik der Ruinen und des Ruinösen in einem besonderen Zusammenspiel aus leiblich-sinnlichen Erfahrungen und begrifflichen Reflexionen besteht. In Auseinandersetzung mit unterschiedlichen ästhetischen Medien wie Malerei, Fotografie, Film, Computerspiel und Virtual Reality wird ersichtlich: Die Faszination an Ruinen und Ruinösem ist als ein atmosphärisches Reflexionsgeschehen zu verstehen.
Fabrication and Optimization of Directly Compressible Self-Emulsifying Tablets Containing Cannabis Extract Obtained from Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Extraction
Authors: Monton Chaowalit , Chankana Natawat , Duangjit Sureewan , Suksaeree Jirapornchai , Naksuriya Ornchuma , Charoenchai Laksana , Songsak Thanapat
Published: August 2023

Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, which are present in cannabis extract, exhibit low bioavailability when administered orally due to significant first-pass metabolism. The use of a self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) can enhance their dissolution and bioavailability. However, liquid SEDDS formulations are prone to inadequate stability. To address this issue, the development of a solid SEDDS formulation was explored. This study aimed to optimize directly compressible self-emulsifying tablets containing cannabis extract obtained from supercritical carbon dioxide extraction. Initially, a liquid SEDDS of cannabis extract was solidified by adsorption onto solid carriers (colloidal silicon dioxide and microcrystalline cellulose). The resulting solid mixture was then combined with other pharmaceutical excipients and compressed into tablets. Three factors were optimized using the Box-Behnken design: compressional force (1,000–2,000 psi), quantity of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (0–6%), and quantity of croscarmellose sodium (0–6%). The results revealed that a mass ratio of colloidal silicon dioxide, microcrystalline cellulose, and liquid SEDDS of cannabis extract at 0.65:2:1 successfully solidified the mixture. The optimal tablet formulation was achieved with a compressional force of 2,000 psi, without the addition of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose or croscarmellose sodium. Verification data indicated that the predictions made by the computer software were accurate and reliable. The developed tablets exhibited improved dissolution of the cannabis extract, with Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol demonstrating higher dissolution compared to cannabidiol. Additionally, the compressed tablets were capable of emulsifying small nano-sized droplets (approximately 200 nm). However, the droplets exhibited a larger size and broader polydispersity index compared to the liquid SEDDS. In conclusion, the study successfully developed directly compressible self-emulsifying tablets that enhanced the dissolution of cannabis extract.
TUVALDEN MEKÂNA YAYILAN MANZARA
Authors: GÜNAY Burcu
Published: August 2023

Bu araştırma kayıtlara geçen en eski manzara resminden başlayarak, Batı sanat tarihinde manzara konusunu ele alan en belirgin eserler üzerinden ilerlemektedir. Manzara resim geleneği kısaca açıklandıktan sonra, özellikle 1960 sonrası sanattaki kırılmalar açıklanmış ardından doğanın kendisinin galeri mekanında kullanıldığı en belirgin üretim süreçlerinden örnekler sunulmuştur. Çağdaş sanatta doğa nesnelerini galeride ya da doğadan koparmadan kendi ortamında ele alan en belirgin sanatçılar üzerinden bir değerlendirme yapılmıştır. Bu araştırma literatür tarama yöntemine göre oluşturulmuştur.
EKONOMİK KALKINMA VE İSTİKRARIN ÖNÜNDEKİ ENGEL: PİYASA DOLANDIRICILIĞI SUÇU
Authors: GÖZÜM Prihan , YILDIRIM Rabia , YILDIRIM Yasin
Published: August 2023

Sermaye piyasaları, ulusal ve uluslararası ölçekte çok çeşitli ekonomik anlaşmaların yapıldığı, ticari ve ekonomik ilişkilerin kurulduğu, bireysel ve kurumsal tüm yatırımcıların menfaatlerinin, kazanç ve zararlarının doğrudan değişime uğradığı, dolayısıyla bir ülkenin ulusal ekonomik güvenliğinin, kalkınmasının ve istikrarının da etkilenebildiği özellikli finansal platformlardır. Sermaye piyasalarının bu denli önemli ve bir o kadar da hassas bir yapıda olması bu piyasalara zarar verebilecek faaliyetlerin de tam olarak ve bütün yönleriyle anlaşılması gereğini ortaya çıkarmaktadır. Hiç şüphe yoktur ki bu tür zararlı faaliyetlerin başında da Sermaye Piyasası Kanunu’nun 107/1’inci maddesinde düzenlenen piyasa dolandırıcılığı suçu gelmektedir. Bu özel suçun maddi ve manevi unsurları başta olmak üzere tüm yapısal özelliklerinin bilinmesi, mevcut düzenlemedeki güçlü ve zayıf yönlerin tanınması ise hem bu suçla mücadele etme hem de mevcut düzenlemelerin uygun şekilde revize edilmesi noktasında çok büyük bir önem arz etmektedir. Bu sayede, ülkemizin ekonomik kalkınması, büyümesi ve istikrarı önündeki en tehlikeli engellerden biri olan piyasa dolandırıcılığı suçunun etkilerinin minimize edilmesi, sermaye piyasalarının daha güvenli bir hale getirilmesi, piyasaların daha etkin bir şekilde işleyebilmesi ve de hem yatırımcıların menfaatlerinin hem de ulusal ekonomik dinamiklerin korunması için atılabilecek adımlar belirlenebilecektir. İlaveten suçluların da ceza alması mağduriyetin giderilmesi için tek başına yeterli olmayıp, mağdurların uğramış oldukları zararların da tazmini gerekmektedir.
KUTADGU BİLİG VE NİZAMÜLMÜLK SİYASETNAMESİ’NDE DAİRE-İ ADLİYE DÜŞÜNCESİ
Authors: ŞEYHANLIOĞLU Hüseyin
Published: August 2023

Tarihte bilinen ilk devlet olan Sümerler, onun siyasi kültürü üzerinde yükselen ilk imparatorluk olarak kabul edilen Akkadlar ve bu tecrübeyi tevarüs eden devletler dikkate alındığında Asya kıtası, Dünya siyasi tarihinin merkezinde bulunmaktadır. Üstelik M.S. 7. yüzyıl sonrası Anadolu, Mısır, Hint, Pers, Türk, Arap, Çin ve Moğol Dünyasının İslamlaşması ile bu coğrafyadaki devletlerin daha kalıcı ve kurumsal bir görüntüye kavuştukları bilinmektedir.
Bu coğrafyadaki en az altı bin yıllık siyasi tecrübeyi ihtiva eden ve bu tecrübeyi İslamî bir zeminde yeniden yorumlayan Kutadgu Bilig ve Nizamülmülk’ün Siyasetnamesi, siyaset bilimi alanında emsalsiz örnekler teşkil etmektedir. Türk ve İran devlet geleneklerini İslam siyaset düşüncesine kazandıran bu iki eser, adalet, ilim, ahlak, maliye, toplum, hâkimiyet, insan ve uluslararası ilişkileri ele almaktadır.
En mükemmel haline 1600’lerde ulaşan ve siyasetin adalete dayanması esasına dayalı olan Daire-i Adliye, yüzyıllarca Dünya siyasi tarihinde her hükümdarın en temel ve ilk siyasi ilkeleri olarak görülmüştür. Bu çalışmada, Kutadgu Bilig ve Nizamülmülk Siyasetname’sinin orijinal metinlerine bağlı kalınarak, bu eserlerdeki siyasi düşünceler, Daire-i Adliye bağlamında analiz edilecektir. Çalışmada, Türk-İslam Devletlerinin kalıcılığı ve kurumsallık ilkelerinin günümüz ve gelecek idareciler için de geçerli olduğu ve bunların özlü olarak takdimi hedeflenmiştir.