bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular Detection and Characterization of Streptococcus suis Isolated from Pneumonic Lungs of Pigs
Authors: Yasmin S. , Begum S.A. , Pegu S.R. , Gogoi S.M. , Nath R. , Dutta B. , Buragohain M.
Published: August 2023

Background: Among various diseases, respiratory disease is considered a leading cause of mortality in pigs. Streptococcus suis affects respiratory tract and causes pneumonia as an opportunistic pathogen, that impairs animal health and lowers individual and herd performance in swine. Therefore, it becomes important to have an insight of bacterial pneumonia with special reference to Streptococcus suis in pig, so that control measures could be practiced effectively. Methods: Detailed post mortem examination was carried out on 180 pigs. Bacterial isolation was carried out from 127 (70.55%) lungs samples with pneumonic lesions. Further, suspected colonies of S. suis were subjected to Polymerase Chain Reaction for detection of glutamate dehydrogenase gene. Phylogenetic analysis was carried out for the positive S. suis samples. Results: Bacteria isolated were Pasteurella multocida (34.44%), S. suis (28.89%), E. coli (16.67%), Staphylococcus spp. (14.44%), Klebsiella spp. (3.33%) and Salmonella spp. (2.22%). Out of 26 suspected S. suis colonies subjected to Polymerase Chain Reaction, 17 isolates with amplicon size 688 bp were confirmed to be positive for glutamate dehydrogenase gene. The Phylogenetic analysis of glutamate dehydrogenase gene of S. suis from pigs of Assam showed percent identity above 99% with Germany, Canada and China strain of S. suis.
A southern root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) first reported on cucumber in Manipur
Authors: Sumita Kshetrimayum , Vivekananda Yaikhom
Published: August 2023

Root-knot nematode is one of the major pest of vegetable crops that produces root galls in the infected roots, seriously reducing the farmer’s produce. According to statistics, phyto-parasitic nematodes affect 12.3% of the world’s major crops each year, resulting in yield losses. Most common species of root-knot nematodes have been reported to be vulnerable to cucumber and they can reduce productivity by up to 60% in protected commercial farming. Till now, there was no report of root knot nematode affecting cucumber in the state of Manipur (India). In 2021, an extensive investigation was conducted in each block of Kakching district, Manipur to observe for the root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne spp.) infecting the cucumber crop of that area based on morphological characteristic symptoms of the infected plant. The root samples forming galls and soil were collected for confirmatory studies at the laboratory. For the first time, it was discovered during the study that the cucumber crop was infested by the Meloidogyne spp. showing the general symptoms like water and nutrient stress, yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, wilting of infested plants and patchiness of plants in the infested field, together with the typical symptoms of gall formation in the root system. According to morphological investigations, the southern root-knot nematode (M. incognita) was found to be responsible for the infestation of the cucumber plant sample taken from a farmer’s field in the Kakching district of Manipur.
Długa droga od „dobrej zmiany” do dobrobytu
Authors: Adamski Dariusz
Published: August 2023

„Dobra zmiana” obiecywała to, czego najbardziej pragną wyborcy: dobrobyt dla wszystkich. Cel ten chciano osiągnąć, przyjmując filozofię rządzenia opartą na konserwatywnym etatyzmie i paternalizmie. Jednak po ośmiu latach efekty polityk społeczno-gospodarczych zbudowanych na tych filarach rozczarowują. Jasno wynika to z omówionych w książce doświadczeń polityki innowacyjności, energetycznej, dotyczącej rynku finansowego, podatkowej, społecznej, oświatowej, ochrony zdrowia, wymiaru sprawiedliwości i odnoszącej się do samorządu terytorialnego. Warto prześledzić rozwój każdej z tych dziewięciu sfer działania państwa nie tylko po to, by zrozumieć naturę i skalę błędów popełnionych po roku 2015. Przede wszystkim stanowi to warunek wyciągnięcia prawidłowych wniosków co do tego, jakie korekty należy wprowadzić, byśmy żyli w kraju rzeczywiście przybliżającym się do dobrobytu dla wszystkich. Jak wyjaśnia Autor, sposoby na to istnieją i są na wyciągnięcie ręki.
INTENTION TO PARTICIPATE IN TAX EVASION: A SURVEY OF ACCOUNTING AND NON-ACCOUNTING BACKGROUND EMPLOYEES
Authors:   Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Business Management, Open University Malaysia, Kelana Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia, Hidayah Alwi Noral , Ahmad Khan Bibi Nabi ,   Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Business Management, Open University Malaysia, Kelana Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia, Osman Zahir ,   Faculty of Business Management, Open University Malaysia, Kelana Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Published: August 2023

Tax evasion is still justified by Malaysian citizens as being tolerable and acceptable, as seen by the greater number of tax evasion cases and rise in unpaid tax figures in the country. This study examines the connection between attitude, perceived behaviour control and subjective norms towards tax evasion behaviour between the accounting and non-accounting background employees. This study adopts a quantitative methodology and based on non-probability sampling of Malaysian individual taxpayers. Google forms were used to collect all the data, then analysed using SPSS 22.0. The results indicate that employees with accounting backgrounds behave differently than those without an accounting background in terms of their aim to evade taxes. All variables show a positive correlation with tax evasion behaviour for employees with non-accounting backgrounds. However, among workers with accounting backgrounds, only subjective norms show a positive impact on tax evasion behaviour. As compares to non-accounting background employees, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control influence the intention to engage in tax evasion. The findings of this study may help employers prevent unintended tax evasion by educating employees on handling their tax returns. Additionally, this outcome will add value to the new knowledge particularly in the literature on tax compliance.
Curadoria de objetos digitais acessíveis na rede brasileira de estudos e acervos adaptados - REBECA
Authors: Vieira Shirly Pimentel , Siebra Sandra de Albuquerque
Published: August 2023

Introdução: Da produção constante e escalonada de Objetos Digitais Acessíveis emerge a preocupação com a gestão e preservação digital destes, de forma a evitar perdas e garantir o acesso a longo prazo a eles. Objetivo: A pesquisa descrita neste artigo buscou identificar ações de Curadoria Digital implementadas pelas Instituições integrantes da Rede Brasileira de Estudos e Acervos Adaptados (REBECA). Metodologia: Quanto aos procedimentos metodológicos, caracterizou-se como uma pesquisa descritiva, com abordagem quantitativa e qualitativa. Como instrumento de coleta de dados, foi aplicado um questionário, com dezessete questões, elaborado com base no modelo de ciclo de vida para curadoria digital DCC&U. Resultados: Verificou-se que as ações de curadoria ou de preservação digital não são executadas de maneira uniforme na Rede. Porém, apesar de não haver uma padronização, todas as ações que se configuram como etapas do ciclo de vida da curadoria digital foram identificadas em pelo menos uma IES, sendo as mais frequentes: a participação e monitoramento da comunidade e a descrição e representação da informação, por meio da especificação e atribuição de metadados aos objetos digitais acessíveis produzidos. Conclusão: A curadoria e preservação digital são ainda assuntos emergentes nas discussões da Rede, apesar de muitas das ações presentes nos modelos de ciclo de vida de curadoria já serem realizadas no processo de produção dos Objetos Digitais Acessíveis.
Questioning Universal Humanism: The European Double Standard on Refugees
Authors: Anadza Hirshi , Pasopati Rommel Utungga , Syarifuddin Syarifuddin
Published: August 2023

About 4.6 million Ukrainians were forced to migrate to several European countries. This number is about four times the number of Syrian refugees seeking asylum in Europe. With a ratio of 1:4, European countries are more likely to accept Ukraine refugees in larger numbers, and this raises the assumption that there is a double standard among European countries in treating refugees between Ukraine and Syria. This assumption is primarily based on issues of race, religion, culture, and even politics. However, humanism's universal view neglected partialism and viewed humans as members of the human family who did not leave others behind. Furthermore, the Europeans who invented the concept of humanism itself, in reality, did not implement the concept universally but only in the European region. Therefore, with a descriptive-qualitative approach, this paper aims to emphasize that regional solidarity can go beyond universal humanitarian impulses. The theory of universal humanism is used as the primary standard in analyzing the phenomenon of the European double standard. It can be said that even though the Ukraine-Russia crisis has the potential to cause high inflation with slow growth, Europeans are still making solid efforts to help refugees from Ukraine. In other words, regional solidarity seems to be more of a priority than universal humanitarian impulses.
Keywords: Regional Solidarity, Universal Humanism, Refugees, Russian Invasion, Syria, Ukraine
 
Sekitar 4,6 juta orang Ukraina terpaksa bermigrasi ke beberapa negara Eropa. Jumlah ini adalah sekitar empat kali jumlah pengungsi Suriah yang mencari suaka di Eropa. Dengan rasio 1:4, negara-negara Eropa lebih mudah menerima pengungsi Ukraina dalam jumlah yang lebih besar, dan hal ini menimbulkan anggapan bahwa negara-negara Eropa menerapkan standar ganda dalam menangani pengungsi antara Ukraina dan Suriah. Asumsi ini sebagian besar didasarkan pada masalah ras, agama, budaya, dan bahkan politik. Akan tetapi, pandangan universal humanisme mengabaikan keberpihakan dan memandang manusia sebagai anggota keluarga manusia, yang tidak meninggalkan manusia lain. Selain itu, orang Eropa yang menemukan konsep humanisme itu sendiri pada realitanya tidak menerapkan konsep tersebut secara universal, tetapi hanya di wilayah Eropa saja. Oleh karena itu, dengan pendekatan deskriptif-kualitatif, tulisan ini ingin menekankan bahwa solidaritas regional sejatinya dapat melampaui dorongan kemanusiaan universal. Teori humanisme universal digunakan sebagai standar utama dalam menganalisis fenomena standar ganda Eropa ini. Dapat dikatakan bahwa meskipun krisis Ukraina-Rusia berpotensi menyebabkan inflasi tinggi dengan pertumbuhan yang lambat, orang Eropa masih berupaya keras untuk membantu para pengungsi dari Ukraina. Dengan kata lain, solidaritas regional tampaknya lebih menjadi prioritas dibandingkan dengan dorongan kemanusiaan universal.
Kata-kata Kunci: Solidaritas Regional, Humanisme Universal, Pengungsi, Invasi Rusia, Suriah, Ukraina
Securitizing the Unseen: Behind Trump’s Reliance on Mexico in Combating Irregular Immigration
Authors: Sitompul Eiga , Cipto Bambang
Published: August 2023

This research aims to analyze the reasons behind Trump’s decision to pressure Mexico to combat irregular immigration. Trump’s administration showed an exceptional commitment to immigration control and dramatically re-oriented the immigration control mechanism in the United States (US). Despite unprecedented amounts of changes in the US internal immigration system under Trump, his presidency relied on Mexico for his securitization cause. Due to massive migration activities along the US-Mexico border, Trump forced Mexican authorities to cooperate with US institutions to reduce and filter migrant flows coming to the US. Nonetheless, existing literature regarding US immigration did not explain the reason behind Trump’s reliance on Mexican authorities and its cooperation system; thus this article aims to fill the gap. This research applies the migration securitization framework in evaluating the US immigration system prior to the 2019 US-Mexico joint statement on immigration. Using Bourbeau’s migration securitization framework, the research found that Trump’s immigration policy faced barriers due to interference from the opposition party. This research concluded that the US federal system and political climate confined Trump’s immigration enforcement efforts, thus pushing the administration to burden Mexican authorities with its enforcement efforts.
Keywords: irregular immigration, Mexico, migration securitization, Trump, US.
 
Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis keputusan presiden Trump dalam menekan Meksiko untuk memerangi imigran gelap. Pemerintahan Trump menunjukkan komitmen luar biasa dalam mengontrol sistem imigrasi di Amerika Serikat (AS), mengorientasikan mekanisme imigrasi internal secara dramatis. Namun, terlepas dari perubahan besar dalam mekanisme imigrasi dibawah pemerintahan Trump, presiden Trump bergantung terhadap pemerintah Meksiko dalam mengimplementasikan agenda sekuritisasinya. Karena aktivitas migrasi besar-besaran di sepanjang perbatasan AS-Meksiko, Trump memaksa otoritas Meksiko untuk bekerja sama dalam menyaring arus migran yang datang ke AS. Studi-studi sebelumnya tidak menjelaskan alasan dibalik ketergantungan Trump pada otoritas Meksiko, sehingga artikel ini bertujuan mengisi kekosongan tersebut. Penelitian ini menerapkan kerangka sekuritisasi imigrasi dalam mengevaluasi sistem imigrasi AS sebelum pernyataan bilateral AS-Meksiko tahun 2019 tentang imigrasi. Menggunakan kerangka Sekuritisasi Bourbeau, penelitian ini menemukan bahwa kebijakan imigrasi Trump terhambat oleh campur tangan partai oposisi. Penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa sistem federal dan iklim politik di AS membatasi upaya penegakan imigrasi Trump, sehingga mendorong pemerintahan untuk membebani pemerintah Meksiko dengan upaya penegakannya.
Kata-kata Kunci: Amerika Serikat, imigrasi ilegal, Meksiko, sekuritisasi imigrasi, Trump
Defining Islamic Transnationalism: A Case Study of Indonesia’s Nahdlatul Ulama
Authors: Afkar Vyan Tashwirul , Sundrijo Dwi Ardhanariswari
Published: August 2023

This article examines Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) as a transnational actor in international relations and comprehends its behavior based on the dimensions of Transnational Islam. NU is well recognized as an Indonesian national religious civil society organization and presented itself as the antithesis of Transnational Islam in the country. Meanwhile, NU conducts many cross-border activities, has members all over the world, and has offices based in various countries, enough to make it be perceived as a Transnational Islamic organization. This article examines why NU is a Transnational Islamic organization using Bowen's three dimensions of Transnational Islam: demographic movements, transnational religious institutions, and Islamic references and debates. This research applies qualitative descriptive methods from literary works. This research concludes that NU is a Transnational Islamic organization as it fits all three of Bowen's dimensions. NU's transnational dimensions are found at various but interconnected categories, specifically cultural, structural, and ideational levels.
Keywords: Nahdlatul Ulama, Indonesia, Islam, Islamic Transnationalism, Transnationalism
 
Artikel ini menguji status Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) sebagai aktor transnasional di dalam hubungan internasional dan menjabarkan perilakunya berdasarkan dimensi Islam transnasional. NU telah dikenal sebagai organisasi keagamaan Islam di Indonesia dan menampilkan diri sebagai antitesis gerakan-gerakan Islam transnasional di dalam negeri. Sementara itu, NU sendiri melakukan banyak kegiatan lintas batas negara, memiliki keanggotaan dari berbagai belahan dunia, dan memiliki kepengurusan internasional, sehingga dianggap cukup untuk menyebut NU sebagai organisasi Islam transnasional. Artikel ini berargumen bahwa NU adalah organisasi Islam transnasional berdasarkan tiga dimensi yang dikemukakan Bowen: demographic movements, transnational religious institutions, dan Islamic reference and debates. Artikel ini disusun dengan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif melalui penelusuran pustaka. Kesimpulan penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa NU adalah organisasi Islam transnasional karena sesuai dengan ketiga dimensi Bowen. Adapun dimensi transnasionalitas NU berada di tiga level berbeda yang saling berkaitan, yaitu di level kultural, struktural, dan ideasional.
Kata-kata kunci: Nahdlatul Ulama, Indonesia, Islam, Islam Transnational, Transnationalisme
How Does Language and Culture Form One Unique National Identity? A Case Study of Renaming the South China Sea to North Natuna Sea in Indonesia’s Foreign Policy Since 2016
Authors: Putra Rhevy Adriade
Published: August 2023

This article discusses the use of language and historical legacy in forming one national identity, which is thus used as a political stand of foreign policy. The primary analysis of this article uses the concept of “imagined communities,” which distinguishes one’s perception of themselves toward others. The methodology of “nationalizing the past” was adopted to amplify a more substantial justification toward what has been believed to be one’s belonging. The shift in Indonesia’s foreign policy toward the South China Sea disputes, reflected in renaming the northern side of Indonesia’s Natuna Islands as the North Natuna Sea, was selected as a case study. This article argues that language serves not only as a means to define national identity but also as a vital tool in safeguarding the national assets inherited across generations that are an integral part of their identity.
Keywords: language, imagined communities, South China Sea, territorial conflict, Indonesia, foreign policy, North Natuna Sea
 
Artikel ini membahas penggunaan bahasa dan warisan sejarah dalam membentuk sebuah identitas nasional yang kemudian digunakan sebagai sikap politik terhadap kebijakan luar negeri. Analisis utama artikel ini ini dilakukan dengan menggunakan konsep 'komunitas yang dibayangkan’ (imagined communities), yang membedakan persepsi sebuah kelompok atas dirinya terhadap yang lain. Metodologi 'menasionalisasi masa lalu’ (nationalising the past) lantas digunakan untuk memperkuat pembenaran terhadap apa yang diyakini sebagai milik sebuah negara. Pergeseran kebijakan luar negeri Indonesia terhadap sengketa Laut Tiongkok Selatan dengan menamai sisi utara Kepulauan Natuna sebagai Laut Natuna Utara diambil sebagai studi kasus. Artikel ini berargumen bahwa bahasa tidak hanya berfungsi sebagai cara untuk mendefinisikan identitas nasional, tetapi juga sebagai alat penting untuk mempertahankan aset-aset nasional yang diturunkan dari generasi ke generasi sebagai bagian penting dari identitas.
Kata-kata kunci: bahasa, imagined communities, Laut Tiongkok Selatan, konflik teritorial, Indonesia, kebijakan luar negeri, Laut Natuna Utara
Indonesia's Strategy in Response to COVID-19: A Fragmented State Balancing Health and Economy
Authors: Santoso Yohanes William
Published: August 2023

This article aims to explain how the country's transformation influences Indonesia's strategy in dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. Taking a period from March 2020 to May 2022, this article is based on the strategy of the Indonesian government, which seeks to balance health and economic aspects when responding to a pandemic. Indonesia has chosen an adaptive balancing strategy that balances health and economic aspects to respond to the pandemic. This strategy is relatively different from the reference strategy suggested by the World Health Organization (WHO), which focuses more on health before recovering the economy, which has drawn criticism from various experts. Nevertheless, the Indonesian government's efforts to deal with the pandemic have experienced significant progress and have succeeded in reducing transmission rates and accelerating vaccination. Therefore, this research explains why Indonesia chose an adaptive balancing strategy. To answer this question, researchers use state transformation theory as an explanatory instrument in understanding the dynamics of the policy-making process at the domestic level in response to a pandemic. In particular, the findings of this article discuss how fragmentation in Indonesia explains the domestic dynamics behind the country's response to cross-border non-traditional security issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Keywords: Indonesia, Adaptive Balancing Strategy, COVID-19 Pandemic, State Transformation, Fragmentation
Artikel ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan bagaimana transformasi negara memengaruhi strategi Indonesia dalam menghadapi pandemi COVID-19. Dengan mengambil jangka waktu mulai dari Maret 2020 hingga Mei 2022, artikel ini berlatar belakang pada strategi pemerintah Indonesia yang berupaya untuk menyeimbangkan antara aspek kesehatan dan perekonomian ketika merespons pandemi. Indonesia memilih strategi perimbangan adaptif yang menyeimbangkan aspek kesehatan dan ekonomi sebagai jalan keluar dalam merespons pandemi. Strategi tersebut relatif berbeda dengan acuan strategi yang disarankan oleh World Health Organization (WHO) yang lebih berfokus pada kesehatan sebelum memulihkan perekonomian sehingga sempat menuai kritik dari berbagai pakar. Walaupun demikian, upaya pemerintah Indonesia dalam menangani pandemi mengalami perkembangan yang signifikan dan berhasil menurunkan angka penularan serta mempercepat vaksinasi. Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini berusaha menjelaskan alasan mengapa Indonesia memilih strategi perimbangan adaptif. Untuk menjawab pertanyaan tersebut, peneliti menggunakan teori transformasi negara sebagai instrumen penjelas dalam memahami dinamika proses pengambilan kebijakan di tingkat domestik untuk merespons pandemi. Secara khusus, temuan artikel ini membahas bagaimana fragmentasi di Indonesia menjelaskan dinamika domestik di balik respons negara terhadap isu keamanan non-tradisional lintas batas seperti pandemi COVID-19.
Kata-kata kunci: Indonesia, Strategi Perimbangan Adaptive, Pandemi COVID-19, Transformasi Negara, Fragmentasi
Analisis Isi Pesan Promosi Kesehatan Program Vaksinasi Covid-19 pada Instagram Kementerian Kesehatan RI (@kemenkes_ri) Berdasarkan Health Belief Model
Authors: Ismawardani Asa Novela , Destrity Nia Ashton
Published: August 2023

Health Belief Model dikembangkan untuk memprediksi praktik masyarakat dalam tindakan pencegahan penyakit. Belum banyak studi yang melihat konstruksi HBM pada pesan promosi kesehatan dari perspektif organisasi, sehingga riset ini ditujukan untuk mengetahui dan menganalisis kecenderungan penggunaan konstruksi HBM dalam unggahan pesan promosi kesehatan program vaksinasi COVID-19 pada media sosial Instagram Kemenkes RI (@kemenkes_ri). Studi ini menggunakan metode analisis isi kuantitatif deskriptif terhadap 95 unggahan pesan promosi kesehatan program vaksinasi COVID-19 pada Instagram Kemenkes RI (@kemenkes_ri) periode 3 November 2020 hingga 2 Mei 2021. Hasil riset menunjukkan bahwa konstruksi HBM dengan frekuensi kemunculan tertinggi adalah cues to action (n=66, 43,14%) dan yang terendah adalah perceived severity (n=6, 3,92%). Kombinasi konstruksi HBM dengan frekuensi kemunculan tertinggi adalah kombinasi cues to action dan self-efficacy (n=11). Unggahan yang memiliki jumlah likes dan komentar tertinggi adalah unggahan dengan konstruksi perceived susceptibility dan perceived barriers (likes=57.607, komentar=1.133).
Atomic Structure and Binding of Carbon Atoms
Authors: Ali Mubarak
Published: August 2023

A carbon element exhibits complex behavior due to having several allotropic forms. Processing its precursors and compounds by different techniques and methods results in various carbon-based materials, which show a lot of uncertainties in their characterizations and analyses. Depending on the processing conditions of a carbon precursor, a carbon atom changes its state behavior. The conversion of the carbon atom from one state to another is due to the electron transfer mechanism. Bits of energy having shape-like dash transfer electrons to nearby unfilled states in conversion. The involved dash-shaped energy bit keeps partially conserved behavior. The forces exerted on the transferring electrons also keep partially conserved behavior. Under only attained dynamics of the carbon atoms, a two-dimensional or amorphous graphite structure forms. In the execution of electron dynamics, graphite, nanotube, and fullerene state atoms form one-dimensional, two-dimensional, and four-dimensional structures, respectively. In the depositing diamond atom, each outer ring electron undertakes the clamp of each energy knot belonging to the outer ring of the deposited diamond atom. As a result, binding in diamond state atoms is from east-west to south. So, growth in the diamond structure is from south to east-west. Lonsdaleite state atoms bind from the east-west to a bit south. In glassy carbon, the layers of gaseous, graphite, and lonsdaleite state atoms bind simultaneously. The order of the layers repeats in the growth of glassy carbon. Atoms in diamond, lonsdaleite, graphene and glassy carbon structures involve golf-stick-shaped energy bits. Processed carbon materials differently also study hardness under a new insight. This study discusses the fundamental and applied science of carbon atoms and their structures.
ROS-Dependent Activation of EGFR/Akt/p38 MAPK and JNK1/2/FoxO1 and AP-1 Pathways in Human Pulmonary Alveolar Epithelial Cells Leads to Up-Regulation of COX-2/PGE2 Induced by Silica Nanoparticles
Authors: Lin Yan-Jyun , Yang Chien-Chung , Lee I-Ta , Wu Wen-Bin , Lin Chin-Chung , Hsiao Li-Der , Yang Chuen-Mao
Published: August 2023

The risk of lung exposure to silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) and related lung inflammatory injury is increasing with the wide application of SiNPs in a variety of industries. A growing body of research has revealed that cyclooxygenase (COX)-2/ prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) up-regulated by SiNPs toxicity has a role during pulmonary inflammation. The detailed mechanisms underlying SiNPs-induced COX-2 expression and PGE2 synthesis remain unknown. The present study aims to dissect the molecular components involved in COX-2/PGE2 up-regulated by SiNPs in human pulmonary alveolar epithelial cells (HPAEpiCs) which are one of the major targets while SiNPs are inhaled. In the present study, we demonstrated that SiNPs induced COX-2 expression and PGE2 release, which were inhibited by pretreatment with a reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger (edaravone) or the inhibitors of proline-rich tyrosine kinase 2 (Pyk2, PF-431396), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR, AG1478), phosphatidylinositol 3‑kinase (PI3K, LY294002), protein kinase B (Akt, Akt inhibitor VIII), p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) (p38 MAPK inhibitor VIII), c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK)1/2 (SP600125), Forkhead Box O1 (FoxO1, AS1842856), and activator protein 1 (AP-1, Tanshinone IIA). In addition, we also found that SiNPs induced ROS-dependent Pyk2, EGFR, Akt, p38 MAPK, and JNK1/2 activation in these cells. These signaling pathways induced by SiNPs could further cause c-Jun and FoxO1 activation and translocation from the cytosol to the nucleus. AP-1 and FoxO1 activation could increase COX-2 and PGE2 levels induced by SiNPs. Finally, the COX-2/PGE2 axis might promote the inflammatory responses in HPAEpiCs. In conclusion, we suggested that SiNPs induced COX-2 expression accompanied by PGE2 synthesis mediated via ROS/Pyk2/EGFR/PI3K/Akt/p38 MAPK- and JNK1/2-dependent FoxO1 and AP-1 activation in HPAEpiCs.
Study of the Application of Recycled Gold Nanoparticles in Coatings for Eyewear Lenses
Authors: Majerič Peter , Koruga Djuro , Njegovan Zorana , Jelen Žiga , Švarc Tilen , Horvat Andrej , Rudolf Rebeka
Published: August 2023

The surface plasmon resonance of gold nanoparticles causes visible light absorption and scattering effects that may be used in optical coatings for eliminating blue light emission from display monitors, blocking UV light and for decorative applications. This study examines the achievement of functional properties provided by gold nanoparticles in a commercially established C60 fullerene-coated eyewear product. The gold nanoparticles used were sourced from recycling rapid lateral flow tests (LFIA), which use gold nanoparticles as test markers. After the gold`s recovery Ultrasonic Spray Pyrolysis (USP) with freeze-drying was used for the synthesis of new gold nanoparticles, to be used in optical coatings. The gold nanoparticles were examined with SEM, TEM, DLS, zeta potential, BET, and Vis-NIR for characterising their shapes and sizes, required for determination of the surface plasmon resonance effect. After applying the newly produced gold nanoparticles with fullerene C60 in a combined coating for eyewear lenses, the absorption and transmission of the lenses was determined for establishing changes in the coating functionality. The results show that enhancing the fullerene C60 coating with gold nanoparticles improves light absorption and reflectance for blue and UV light further, which may be evaluated as beneficial for the eyewear user, as the reduction of eye strain is improved due to the coating.
Rhabdomyolysis in BA.5 and BA.4 SARS-COV2 Variants: A Single Center Experience
Authors: Capoluongo Nicolina , Mascolo Annamaria , Tiberio Claudia , Sarno Marina , Somma Gabriele , Raffone Marcello , Di Spirito Antimo , Minei Giuseppina , Pisapia Raffaella , Pomicino Andrea , Di Micco Pierpaolo , Capuano Annalisa , Perrella Alessandro
Published: August 2023

Rhabdomyolysis is a serious clinical condition, which if left untreated can lead to kidney failure and in extreme cases, to death. It has also been reported in association with SARS COV2 infection and can be its initial presentation. COVID-19 is a disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2(SARS-CoV-2), which has many variants that change the characteristics of the disease affecting, among other things, the method of transmission or treatment. Some investigators have implicated excessive immune response in the causes of muscle damage during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Others point to direct damage caused by the virus or involving immune factors.
In this study we described cases of COVID-19 infection from 1 June 2022 to 15 July 2022 with elevated muscle enzymes in the blood and hospitalized to the first division of Cotugno hospital in Campania. Of 39 patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, 15 patients presented also rhabdomyolysis. The most common symptoms were: asthenia, fever, arthomyalgia, lipothymia and syncope. No patient had myocardial infarction and 2 patients had atrial fibrillation. All patients were affected by omicron SARS-CoV-2 variants. Of these patients: 4 patients died (2 due to rhabdomyolysis and 2 due to sepsis) and only one patient presented acute kidney injury.
Boosting Lithium Storage Properties of Flexible Li4Ti5O12/ Graphene Fiber Anode through a 3D Printing Assembly Strategy
Authors: Zhao Chenpeng , Wang Rui , Fang Biao , Liang Han , Nie Biyuan , Wang Ruyi , Xu Biao , Feng Songyang , Li Ruqing , Li Shuaifei , Xiong Yuhui , Shao Yuye , Mo Runwei
Published: August 2023

Traditional lithium-ion batteries cannot meet the high flexibility and bendability requirements of modern flexible electronic devices due to the limitations of their electrode materials. Therefore, the development of high-performance flexible energy storage devices is of great significance for promoting flexible electronics. In recent years, one-dimensional flexible fiber lithium-ion batteries have been rapidly developed due to the advantages of high flexibility and bendability. However, it is still a big challenge to realize 1D flexible fiber lithium-ion batteries with excellent electro-chemical properties and good mechanical performance. In this work, a reduced graphene ox-ide-based printing ink is proposed to fabricate flexible Li4Ti5O12/graphene fiber electrodes through a 3D printing assembly strategy. It is noteworthy that the green reducing agent vitamin C was used to reduce graphene oxide in one step, which improved the conductivity of the fiber elec-trode. Furthermore, a 3D conductive network is constructed inside the fiber electrodes due to the high specific surface area of reduced graphene oxide, which enhances the electronic conductivity and ion mobility. The fiber electrode not only has good mechanical performance, but also has ex-cellent electrochemical properties. Equally important, the method is simple and efficient, and the working environment is flexible. It can precisely control the shape, size and structure of the one-dimensional fiber flexible electrode, which is of great significance for the development of fu-ture flexible electronic devices.
Hydrogeological Aspects of the Municipal Water Supply of Albania: Situation and Problems
Authors: Eftimi Romeo , Shehu Kastriot , Sara Franko
Published: August 2023

The municipal water supply, related mainly to the cities of Albanian, began to develop in the second half of the 19th century and much intensively after 1945. Today the reported mean water production for the cities, on average, is about 300 l/capita/d including drinking and industrial water supply. The territory of Albania consists of uneven distribution of very heterogeneous aquifers conditioning the reach variety of the municipal water supply solutions. In this article are analyzed and classified the hydrogeological aspects of water supply sources of the settlements, which are summarized in five groups: (a) Wells in alluvial intergranular aquifers; (b) karst springs; (c) wells in karst aquifers; (d) springs in fissured rocks, and (e) mixed water sources. For each group of the water supply sources the main concerns regarding the quantity and quality problems are analyzed facilitated by the description of a variety of representative examples of different situations. Based on the gained experience important recommendation are given for the better understanding of hydrogeological aspects of water supply systems emphasizing the problematics along the river water recharge areas and on the seawater intrusion in coastal aquifers, as well as on transboundary aquifers. However, the main problems of public water supply of Albania remain the poor management of water supply systems which is reflected in the e high water losses, as well as the low public awareness of request for sustainable use.
Rapid Evolutionary Adaptation to Diet Composition in Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens)
Authors: Gligorescu Anton , Chen Long , Jensen Kim , Nasiri Moghadam Neda , Kristensen Torsten N , Sørensen Jesper Givskov
Published: August 2023

Genetic adaptation of Hermetia illucens (BSF) to suboptimal single sourced wastes can open new perspectives for insect production. Here, four replicate BSF lines were maintained on a single sourced, low-quality wheat bran diet (WB) or on a high-quality chicken feed diet (CF) for 13 generations. We continuously evaluated evolutionary responses in several performance traits to rearing at the two diets. Subsequently, we tested responses to interchanged diets, i.e. of larvae that had been adapted to low-quality feed and to high quality feed and vice versa to evaluate costs associated with diet adaptation. BSF were found to experience rapid adaptation to the diet composition. While performances on WB diet were always inferior to CF diet, the adaptive re-sponses were stronger to the former diet. This stronger response was likely due to stronger se-lection pressure experienced by BSF fed on the low-quality single sourced diet. The interchanged diet experiment found no costs associated with diet adaptation but confirmed diet adaptation for the larval biomass and insect frass traits for the WB diet treatment. Our results revealed that BSF can rapidly adapt to diet through evolutionary responses, which has potential to be utilized to produce lines tailored to specific diets.
Exploring Copper Oxide and Copper Sulfide for Non-Enzymatic Glucose Sensors: Current Progress and Future Directions
Authors: Miya Nonkululeko , Machogo-Phao Lerato F.E , Ntsendwana Bulelwa
Published: August 2023

Millions of people worldwide are affected by diabetes, a chronic disease that continuously grows due to abnormal glucose concentration levels present in the blood. Monitoring blood glucose concentrations is therefore an essential diabetes indicator to aid in the management of the disease. Enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensors presently account for the bulk of glucose sensors in the market. However, their disadvantages are that they are expensive and are dependent on environmental conditions, hence affecting their performance and sensitivity. To meet the increasing demand, non-enzymatic glucose sensors based on chemically modified electrodes for the direct electrocatalytic oxidation of glucose are a good alternative to the costly enzymatic-based sensors currently on the market, and the research thereof continues to grow. Nanotechnology-based biosensors have been explored for their electronic and mechanical properties, resulting in enhanced biological signalling through the direct oxidation of glucose. Copper oxide and copper sulfide exhibit attractive attributes for sensor application, due to their non-toxic nature, abundance, and their unique properties. Thus, in this review, copper oxide and copper sulfide-based materials, are evaluated based on their chemical structure, morphology, and fast electron mobility as suitable electrode materials for non-enzymatic glucose sensors. The review highlights the present challenges of non-enzymatic glucose sensors that have limited their deployment into the market.
In-situ Evaluation of Different CAM Plants as Plant Microbial Fuel Cells for Recovery Energy in Atacama Desert
Authors: Madrid Felipe M. Galleguillos , Toro Norman , Jamett Ingrid , Carrasco Gilda , Carvajal Sergio , Fuentealba Edward , Salazar - Avalos Sebastián , Olivares Douglas , Portillo Carlos , Soliz Alvaro , Caceres Luis , Trigo Mauricio
Published: August 2023

Excess energy from photosynthesis can be collected through biophotovoltaic platforms to generate green electrical power. This research evaluated the in-situ performance of different CAM (Crassulaceae acid metabolism) plants from Calama city located in the Atacama Desert for energy recovery as biophotovoltaic cell (BPV) using AISI 316L and Cu as electrodes. The species evaluated were Aloe perfoliata, Cereus jamacaru, Austrocylindropuntia subulata, Agave potatorum, Malephora crocea, and Kalanchoe daigremontiana. The results indicate that K. daigremontiana can be used as in-situ BFV because it has a maximum cell potential of 0.248 V and a minimum of 0.139 V with a recurrence close to 89% in the ranges [0.2 - 0.25] V. This is one of the few investigations that evaluate the potential of native CAM plants as BFV energy sources, providing new knowledge for the development of sustainable alternatives for horticultural crop production systems.
Enhancing the Extraction Process Efficiency of Thyme Essential Oil by Combined Ultrasound and Microwave Techniques
Authors: Gavrila Adina Ionuta , Chisega-Negrila Ciprian Gabriel , Maholea Laura , Gavrila Mircea Leontin , Pârvulescu Oana Cristina , Popa Ioana
Published: August 2023

In this paper, the extraction of essential oil (EO) from thyme by consecutive use of ultrasound and microwave treatments is presented. The aim of the study was to apply an ultrasound pre-treatment of thyme leaves to enhance the thymol content and the extraction yield of the EO obtained by microwave-assisted hydro-distillation (MWHD). Compared with the conventional hydro-distillation (CHD), the consecutive use of ultrasound and microwave treatments resulted in a 72% lower extraction time. When the ultrasound pre-treatment (using the ultrasonic processor with an amplitude of 70%) was applied, the EO content was 23% higher compared to the extraction without pre-treatment. The EO samples were analyzed by GC/MS. The results showed that the major component, thymol, varied from 43.54% (by CHD) to 65.94% (by consecutive use of ultrasound and microwave treatments).
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer within a Population-Based Organized Screening Program
Authors: Cubiella Joaquín , Calderón-Cruz Beatriz , Almazán Raquel , Gómez-Amorín Ángel
Published: August 2023

Background: The interruption of the activity of the population-based organized colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programs due to the COVID pandemic may have affected their results in terms of detection of preneoplastic lesions and CRC. We evaluated the impact of the COVID pandemic on the delays, participation, adherence to colonoscopies, lesions detected, and CRC stage at di-agnosis in a CRC screening program.
Methods: We analyzed all the invitations between January 1, 2019, and December 31, 2021. We defined the pandemic period as the period after March 12, 2020. We calculated the delay intervals (successive and all rounds), the rates of participation, adherence to colonoscopy after a positive fecal immunochemical test (FIT), and the diagnostic yield of colonoscopy, specifically CRC and colorectal neoplasia (CRC and/or adenoma), as well as CRC stage at diagnosis.
Results: In the period analyzed, 976,187 invitations were sent (61.0% pandemic), 439,687 FIT were returned (62.4% pandemic) and 23,092 colonoscopies were performed (59.1% pandemic). Colon-oscopies were normal in 7,378 subjects (32.4%) and a CRC was detected in 916 subjects (4.0%). In successive rounds, the delay increased significantly seven months during the pandemic period (p<0.001). In all the invitations, the delay from the invitation to the colonoscopy increased sig-nificantly by 8 days (p<0.001). Once adjusted for the confounding variables, participation in the screening program increased significantly (OR=1.1; 95% CI=1.09-1.11), with no changes in the adherence to colonoscopy (OR=0.9; 95% CI=0.8-1.0). We found no differences in the diagnostic yield of colonoscopy in terms of CRC (OR=0.90; 95% CI=0.78-1.02) or colorectal neoplasia (OR=0.98; 95% CI=0.92-1.03) detection. Finally, we found no differences in CRC stage at diagnosis (p=0.2).
Conclusions: Although the interruption of the CRC screening program due to the COVID pan-demic increased the delays, it did not reduce participation, adherence to colonoscopy, or the di-agnostic yield of colonoscopy.
PEMFC Performance Forecasting Based on XGBRegressor and Tree-Structured Parzen
Authors: Echabarri Soufian , Do Phuc , Vu Canh Hai , Bornand Bastien
Published: August 2023

The proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) is a critical and essential component of zero-emission electro-hydrogen generators. An accurate prediction of its performance is important for optimal operation management and preventive maintenance of these generators. However, the prediction is not simple because the PEMFCs have complex electrochemical reactions with multiple nonlinear relations between operating variables as inputs and voltage as output. In this paper, we propose an efficient prediction approach based on XGBRegressor and Tree-structured Parzen Estimator. In addition, to better select relevant features, Kernel Principal Component Analysis and Mutual Information are jointly used. The proposed approach allows consideration of the dynamic operating conditions of the PEMFC. To test and validate the robustness of the proposed approach, a real data-set of ten PEMFCs was considered. Furthermore, a comparison study with traditional machine learning models, such as artificial neural networks and support vector machine regression, was investigated. The obtained results confirm that our model outperforms the considered traditionel machine learning models.
Non-invasive Multiregional Tumor Sampling Using Magnetic Nanoparticle-Loaded Macrophages
Authors: Renteln Michael
Published: August 2023

Some tumors occur in anatomical regions that are hard to biopsy with a needle. Such regions include the brain, spinal cord, liver, and lungs. For the latter two, magnetic nanoparticle-loaded macrophages could be intravenously infused and driven via an MRI machine into the tumor or tumors. Once there, they can be induced to phagocytose whole tumor cells. They would keep their target in a non-digested form by inhibiting phagosome maturation - and be directed via magnetotaxis or chemotaxis to an extraction point in the body where they can be more easily collected via needle.
Personalized Plasma Medicine for Cancer: Transforming Treatment Strategies with Mathematical Modeling and AI Algorithms
Authors: Devi Viswambari R , Keidar Michael
Published: August 2023

Plasma technology shows tremendous potential for revolutionizing oncology research and treatment. Reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, electromagnetic emissions generated through gas plasma jets, have attracted significant attention due to their selective cytotoxicity towards cancer cells. To leverage the full potential of plasma medicine, researchers have explored the use of mathematical models and various subsets of machine learning, such as reinforcement learning, and deep learning. This review emphasizes the significant application of AI algorithms in the adaptive plasma system, paving the way for precision and dynamic cancer treatment. Realizing the full potential of AI in plasma medicine, requires research efforts, data sharing and interdisciplinary collaborations. Unravelling the complex mechanisms, developing real-time diagnostics, and optimizing AI models will be crucial to harness the true power of plasma technology in oncology. The integration of personalized and dynamic plasma therapies, alongside AI and diagnostic sensors, presents a transformative approach to cancer treatment with the potential to improve outcomes globally.
Independent Board Members and Corporate Financial Performance: The Mediating of Environmental, Social, and Governance Pillars in Taiwan
Authors: Van Pham Le , Ho Yui Hui
Published: August 2023

This paper examines the relationship between the ratio of independent board member to the financial performance of the company under the mediation of the three pillars of environment, society, and governance (ESG) in Taiwan. The study addresses a research gap between independent directors and corporate financial performance, an issue that is rarely discussed today. The author develops the hypotheses and tests them by applying panel data regression to the data tables taken from the Thomson Reuters Eikon database to analyze data on 173 Taiwanese companies that reported ESG from 2009 to 2021. The results show that the relationship between the ratio of independent directors and financial performance has a positive relationship. At the same time, the 3 pillars of ESG also clearly show the intermediary role in this relationship. Finally, this study provides additional insights into the relationship between the ratio of independent directors and financial performance in the Taiwan context.
Using the Colloidal Method to Prepare Au Catalysts for the Alkylation of Aniline by Benzyl Alcohol
Authors: Hare Luka Victoria , Parveen Firdaus , Cookson James , Ellis Peter Richard , Hellgardt Klaus , Hii King Kuok (Mimi)
Published: August 2023

Using the colloidal method, Au NP’s were deposited onto 6 different supports (TiO2,  and -Al2O3, HFeO2, CeO2, and C), and their catalytic activity and selectivity were compared in the alkylation of aniline by benzyl alcohol. Correlations were made between the nature of the support, the Au NP size and H-binding energy.