bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energía, desarrollo y cambio climático en México: análisis de descomposición de las emisiones eléctricas, 2001-2019
Authors: Garcia Ochoa Rigoberto
Published: July 2023

El objetivo de este trabajo es analizar la evolución de las emisiones eléctricas de Mexico y sus factores determinantes durante 2001-2019. Se aplica el método de descomposición de emisiones Índice Divisia Media Logarítmica (IDML), con base en cinco efectos o factores determinantes. Los resultados muestran un incremento en las emisiones debido a los efectos de actividad, intensidad eléctrica y balanza comercial, mientras que los efectos de eficiencia en generación y mezcla de combustible contribuyeron a una reducción insuficiente para contrarrestar el incremento de los factores restantes. Se concluye que las políticas energéticas implementadas a partir de la impronta de la sustentabilidad como alternativa de desarrollo no han producido una reducción de las emisiones eléctricas de Mexico. Por último, se propone una serie de acciones para sentar las bases de una agenda nacional de sostenibilidad de energía eléctrica en México.
La influencia del mercado de deuda pública interna en el desarrollo financiero: evidencia de 52 países en 1990-2020
Authors: Jiménez-Sotelo Renzo A.
Published: July 2023

El objetivo del estudio es determinar si una política de preferencia por el mercado de deuda pública interna influye en el desarrollo del sistema financiero respectivo. Mediante técnicas de datos de panel, se contrasto la relación de causalidad entre el mercado interno de valores de deuda pública y ocho indicadores de desarrollo financiero. Para ello, se utilizaron modelos de regresión estática con efectos fijos computados por mínimos cuadrados ordinarios (MCO) o modelos de regresión dinámica con efectos fijos computados mediante el método generalizado de momentos (MGM) en diferencias, según era pertinente. También se usaron modelos de efectos aleatorios controlados por efectos fijos calculados por mínimos cuadrados en dos etapas (MC2E). Al rechazarse la hipótesis nula que la literatura ha asumido como cierta, se confirmó que las teorías del desarrollo financiero tradicionales estaban incompletas. Si bien la investigación muestra que la preferencia por el mercado de valores de deuda pública interna influye en el desarrollo financiero, y, por lo tanto, en el desarrollo económico, no explica por qué en países menos desarrollados no se le da una mayor importancia. La formulación de esa respuesta estaría más relacionada con campos de estudio que incluyan la ética y la política.
El creciente peso de los sobrecargos del FMI: una estimación actualizada
Authors: Amsler Francisco , Galant Michael
Published: July 2023

Esta investigación estima el peso de los sobrecargos que el Fondo Monetario Internacional (FMI) espera cobrar a los países deudores de medianos ingresos durante 2023-2033. La evidencia indica que los sobrecargos no logran su supuesto objetivo de incentivar el pago anticipado de las deudas; en cambio, incrementan el peso de la deuda de los prestatarios de medianos ingresos que precisamente enfrentan los problemas más graves de balanza de pago, mientras que el FMI se beneficia de estas crisis.
DEVELOPMENT OF SUSTAINABLE HEALTHCARE MODEL FOR THE HOSPITALS IN NORTHERN INDIA
Authors: Gupta Hima , Garg Shweta , Gupta Utkarsh
Published: July 2023

Background: Healthcare organizations incorporate products and services at economical prices to deliver healthcare services of good quality. All the operations performed in the organizations aimed to achieve a higher level of environmental sustainability governed by the Sustainable Developmental Goals of 2030.
Aims: This study aims to develop a sustainable healthcare model using Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP).
Methods: First and foremost, the authors have identified the factors associated with the sustainable healthcare system through a literature review. Based on these factors, a questionnaire was developed and administered to 25 healthcare organizations from December 2020 to March 2021. An Analytical Hierarchy Process is utilized to rank the factors, and a conceptual model is developed. The Felix Hospitals substantiate this model. The authors have also applied sensitivity analysis to validate the results achieved via AHP.
Results: The AHP model demonstrates the focus is on the environment first, followed by the economic and social dimensions sustainably. The validated model was also substantiated by the hospital (Felix) results and sensitivity analysis.
Conclusion: It can be concluded that hospital sustainability highly depends on the environment in the first stage and economic and social sustainability in the second and third stages. The same result was achieved through AHP.
 Keywords: analytical hierarchy process, hospital, sustainable healthcare.
OVERVIEW OF MEDICATION ERROR INCIDENCE IN HOSPITALS IN VARIOUS COUNTRIES: LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Amalia Anisa Eka , Basabih Masyitoh
Published: July 2023

Background: Medication error is one of the most common types of errors contributing to patient safety incidents in hospitals. In addition to their numerous cases and high costs, medication errors also contribute to deaths in various countries.
Aims: This study describes the incidence of medication errors in hospitals in various countries, determines the phase of errors that occurred the most, and describes preventive strategies for medication errors in hospitals.
Methods: This study was conducted between April 2021-July 2021 using the literature review method. Data were retrieved from ProQuest, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Google Scholar, and Garuda RistekBRIN. The data are generalized and extracted in a table based on the incidence of medication errors and preventive strategies.
Results: Of the eleven included studies, the incidence of medication errors in one study conducted in Nigeria was the highest (80%). Four of the eleven studies were conducted in India with varying incidence rates. Most errors occurred during the prescribing stage. The number of reports and the number of events actually have no relevance. It can be said that countries with a high number of reporting have good reporting indicators. Strategies for preventing medication errors include the implementation of an information system in the CPOE (Computerized Physician Order Entry) form and providing training for staff.
Conclusion: The difference in the incidence of medication errors in developing and developed economies can be attributed to factors in the healthcare system and the lower prescribing ratio and nurse ratio in developing countries.
Keywords: literature review, medication errors, patient safety
COST ANALYSIS OF HOME PHARMACY CARE PROGRAM AMONG DIABETES PATIENTS IN PHARMACY
Authors: Halisa Kiftiatin Nur , Setiawan Didik , Prasuma Galar Sigit
Published: July 2023

Background: Home pharmacy care is expected to be able to provide a pharmaceutical service that not only reduces the incidence of drug interactions and side effects but also increases the effectiveness of therapy and patient compliance in using drugs.
Aims: The study aimed to analyze the costs incurred for the home pharmacy care program for diabetic patients at the pharmacy.
Methods: This analysis used the independent variable by providing a program of home pharmacy care. The dependent variable was the cost of running the program of home pharmacy care. The sample was the pharmacist in charge of the pharmacies in the Banyumas and Cilacap districts, which provide a home pharmacy care service program. The sample was conducted by purposive sampling method. Sampling was done by direct interviews with pharmacists who signed informed consent. Break Even Point (BEP) was calculated to determine the number of patients who must be served. The pharmacoeconomic analysis used is Cost Analysis using the activity-based costing (ABC) method.
Results: The lowest rate for home pharmacy care services is Rp. 17,000, and the highest is Rp.31,000 without including home pharmacy care services.
Conclusions: Pharmacies continue to benefit from the home pharmacy care program, and there is no provision for home pharmacy care service rates.
Keywords:  Activity Based Costing (ABC), Diabetes Mellitus, Home pharmacy care (HPC)
ENGAGING PATIENTS FOR PATIENT SAFETY: A QUALITATIVE STUDY ON HEALTHCARE RECIPIENTS’ PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Listiowati Ekorini , Sjaaf Amal Chalik , Achadi Anhari , Bachtiar Adang , Arini Merita
Published: July 2023

Background: Patient safety (PS) is a global priority for achieving quality healthcare. Although patient engagement (PE) is a crucial risk-reduction strategy, research on this subject in Indonesia is scarce.
Aim: This study aims to explore healthcare recipients’ (HCRs’) perspectives and their potential role in PS.
Methods: Exploratory qualitative research was conducted with in-depth interviews (IDIs). This study purposively selected fourteen patients and fifteen caretakers in chronic wards. Content analysis was subjected to the IDIs data that has been transcribed verbatim.
Results: HCRs showed inadequate knowledge, perception, and willingness to engage in patient safety. Four themes were identified from data analysis: (1) complexity barriers to PE Implementation; (2) enabling factors for PE; (3) HCRs' expectations; and (4) existing and potential HCRs' roles in PS. HCRs' roles were still limited to communication, positive attitude and behavior, aided healthcare process, and error prevention.
Conclusion: The limited roles of HCRs resulted from their unreadiness to participate more in PS. For patients to be engaged in safety measures, it was essential to improve the ability of patients and caregivers and eliminate obstacles encountered by healthcare professionals and the broader health system.
Keywords: patient engagement, patient safety, quality healthcare
Western military assistance and arms transfers to Ukraine in 2022 – early 2023: key trends
Authors: Yevtodyeva M.
Published: July 2023

The article discusses key trends in military assistance and transfers of weapons and military equipment (WME) by Western countries to Ukraine since the beginning of Russia’s Special Military Operation in February 2022. The study relies on official information about military assistance and arms transfers that has been disclosed by the governments of WME supplying countries. Focusing on this data, the article analyses country specifics, quantitative characteristics, composition, and types of transferred weapons systems, as well as key financial mechanisms of WME supply and military aid to Ukraine. Also, the ratio between military and other types of assistance is discussed. Some conclusions are made about the prospects of Western arms transfers to Ukraine.
Earthquake in Turkey: impact on domestic politics and the May 2023 elections
Authors: Starodubtsev I.
Published: July 2023

In May 2023, general presidential and parliamentary elections were held in Turkey, as a result of which the ruling government in confirmed its authority: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan retained his post and his People’s Alliance received a majority in the Grand National Assembly (Mejlis). The victory turned out to be difficult for the Turkish authorities. R.T.Erdogan won in two rounds of voting in a fierce competition with opposition candidate Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu. However, while powerful People’s Alliance retained its majority in the Mejlis, it failed to get the desired qualified majority, having lost the opportunity to adopt a new Constitution within the next five years to replace the one in force since 1982. Elections in Turkey took place against the background of the largest earthquake in the country’s modern history that occurred on February 6, 2023 and the elimination of its consequences. The purpose of this article is to determine the consequences of the earthquake for Turkey’s domestic politics in terms of the course and results of the general presidential and parliamentary elections and the impact on domestic political situation for the five-year term of the newly elected president and the Mejlis in 2023–2028. Results of the national development during the 20-year period of Erdogan’s and Justice and Development Party’s rule are inspected. Based on the analysis of program documents, pledges and statements by the government and opposition, the impact of the earthquake on political processes in Turkey and on the turn of the Turkish voters’ attention to domestic issues is explored. The article marks an increase in nationalist and anti-immigrant sentiments in Turkey, regardless of the political views of the Turkish electorate, and suggests that these sentiments will continue to play a significant role in the coming years.
Evolution of the Iran-Israel relations in the context of the Syria crisis
Authors: Akhmedov V.
Published: July 2023

The article analyses the evolution of different aspects of the Iran-Israeli relations in the context of the Syrian crisis. Main stages in development of the Iran-Israeli contacts are shown and their specifics are analyzed retrospectively. Key internal and external factors of influence on the nature of bilateral relations are examined. The author concludes that it is regional and broader international politics in the Middle East that primarily determined the nature of the Iran-Israel relations rather than religious, ethnic, and cultural differences between the two nations. Perceptions of external threats and defense of national sovereignty and territorial integrity played a critical role in bilateral relations. During the first three decades (from the late 1940s until the late 1970s), contacts between Tel-Aviv and Tehran were amicable. However, the dominant Arab environment, in which the relations between Iran and Israel evolved, in many ways predetermined their slide to confrontation, especially after the 1979 Islamic revolution in Iran. In the following decades, hostility in bilateral relation intensified, but remained geographically confined to the Levant. The Syria crisis reactivated the conflict potential in the Middle East and led to escalation of the Iran-Israel confrontation. In 2021–2022, it acquired new forms and expanded to other parts of the Middle East and South Caucasus. In the first months of 2023, the armed conflict between Iran and Israel entered a critical phase and brought the Middle East to the brink of a new “Big War”. However, steps taken in the Spring of 2023 by leading regional and international powers gave a positive impulse to international developments in the Middle East that might reduce the degree of tension in the Iran-Israel relations.
Fighting in urban settings
Authors: Rastol'tsev S.
Published: July 2023

Review of: Voina sredi sten [War within the Walls]. Eds. A.V.Lavrov, R.N.Pukhov. Мoscow: Centre for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies, 2022
Antioxidant Agents for Treatment and Prevention of Patients with Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: De Simoni Edoardo , Candelora Matteo , Belleggia Sara , Molinelli Elisa , Rizzetto Giulio , Ferretti Gianna , Bacchetti Tiziana , Capodaglio Irene , Offidani Annamaria , Simonetti Oriana
Published: July 2023

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease characterized by itching, impaired epidermal barrier function and unbalanced inflammatory response. The pathophysiology involves immune dysregulation, with a predominance of T-helper 2 cells.
AD is triggered by many known and unknown factors, including oxidative stress. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) contribute to AD pathogenesis by causing cellular damage and inflammation. Moreover, increased oxidative stress in AD leads to hyperactivation of the MAP kinase pathway, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and p38, with DNA damage and subsequent skin barrier dysfunction.
This narrative review provides a comprehensive overview of the role of natural antioxidant compounds, highlighting their potential therapeutic value in AD management. They include vitamin D, vitamin E, pyridoxine (vitamin B6), Vitamin C, carotenoids and melatonin, in AD. Despite some studies have shown an association between vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin C and carotenoids levels and AD course, conflicting results exist. Pyridoxine supplementation has shown mixed results, and melatonin has demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in AD; in fact, melatonin treatment resulted in a decrease in symptoms in patients with AD, although no significant correlation with changes in sleep latency was reported. In addition, iron and zinc (Zn) supplementation can also improve AD symptoms.
Further research is needed to elucidate the optimal use of these natural antioxidants in AD treatment
Exploring Temporal Discrimination of Visual Events though EEG-Based Functional Connectivity Analaysis of Brain Regions
Authors: Khoonbani Sina , Ramezanian Hassan
Published: July 2023

To investigate the intricate dynamics of brain activity when interacting with a dynamic environment, it is imperative to continuously generate and update expectations regarding forthcoming events and their corresponding sensory and motor responses. This study aims to explore the interconnectivity in time perception across predictable and unpredictable conditions. The necessary data for this study were acquired from EEG signals, sourced from an existing database that involved an experiment conducted on a group of healthy participants. The individuals were subjected to two distinct conditions, predictable and unpredictable, encompassing various time delays. The functional connectivity between brain regions was estimated using a method known as the phase lag index. This method was employed to discern disparities in time perception between the two conditions. A comprehensive comparison of the two conditions across different delays demonstrated noteworthy variations, particularly in the gamma, beta, and theta frequency bands. The differences between delays were more pronounced in the predictable condition. Subsequently, an in-depth analysis was conducted to scrutinize the dissimilarities between the conditions within each delay. Notably, significant differences were observed across all delays. In the unpredictable condition, an increase in connectivity was detected within the alpha band during the 400-ms delay, specifically between occipital and temporal regions. Moreover, the mean connectivity in the unpredictable condition surpassed that of the predictable condition. In the delta band, distinct connectivity patterns were observed across different delays, involving connections between central and frontal regions. Specifically, a heightened connectivity between central and prefrontal regions was noted during the 83-ms delay. Notably, the right hemisphere of the prefrontal cortex played a vital role in time perception. Furthermore, a decline in connectivity across the delta, theta, and beta bands was observed in both conditions during the longest delay (800 ms) when compared to other delays
UTI Biomarkers in Symptomatic Patients are Significantly Elevated at Microbial Densities of 10,000 cells or CFUs per mL Indicating a Lower Microbial Density Threshold for Diagnosing UTIs
Authors: Parnell Laura , Luke Natalie , Mathur Mohit , Festa Richard , Haley Emery , Wang Jimin , Jiang Yan , Anderson Lori , Baunoch David
Published: July 2023

The literature lacks consensus on the minimum microbial density required for diagnosing urinary tract infections (UTIs). This study categorized the microbial densities of urine specimens from symptomatic presumptive UTI patients and correlated them with detected levels of immune response biomarkers NGAL, IL-8, and IL-1β. The objective was to identify changes in immune response at different microbial densities and determine an optimal threshold for diagnosing symptomatic UTIs. Midstream clean-catch urine samples were analyzed for microbial identification and quantification using SUC and M-PCR, while NGAL, IL-8, and IL-1β levels were measured with ELISA. NGAL, IL-8, and IL-1β levels were all significantly higher in symptomatic subjects with microbial densities ≥ 10,000 cells/mL by M-PCR (p < 0.0069) or equivalent CFUs/mL by SUC (p < 0.0104) compared to samples with no detectable microbes. With both PCR and SUC, a consensus of two or more elevated biomarkers correlated well with microbial densities > 10,000 cells/mL or CFU/mL, respectively. The association between ≥ 10,000 cells and CFU per mL with elevated biomarkers in symptomatic patients suggests that this lower threshold may be more suitable for diagnosing UTIs. These findings challenge the widely used threshold of 100,000 CFU per mL, which may overlook many active UTI cases.
Is It Time to Anticipate the Use of Parp Inhibitors in Prostate Cancer Patients?
Authors: Sciarra Alessandro , Santarelli Valerio , Santodirocco Lorenzo , Frisenda Marco , Salciccia Stefano , Casale Paolo , Forte Flavio , Mariotti Gianna , Moriconi Martina , Cattarino Susanna , Sciarra Beatrice , Bevilacqua Giulio , Gentilucci Alessandro
Published: July 2023

The possibility of treating more patients for a longer time, has exploded the concept of anticipation in the systemic treatment of metastatic prostate cancer (mPC). The genetic analysis of Damage DNA Repair (DDR) mutations in pathogenetic variants (PV) and the development of poly (adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors led to the first valid precision medicine option tailored for mPC. PARP inhibitors are repeating the same evolutionary path experienced for androgen receptor signaling inhibitors (ARSI), starting from the late stage of second line mCRPC in a limited population and time frame. Inevitably also PARP inhibitors will be absorbed by the concept of anticipation and intensification of care. The anticipation of PARP inhibitors in the first line mCRPC therapy is already underway and further one in mHSPC will soon be verified. According to the crosstalk between androgen receptors (AR) and DNA repair, the new message that is emerging is that the combination of PARP inhibitors with ARSI, disconnects PARP from the genetic analysis. Most of the recent trials analyzing PARP inhibitors plus abiraterone or enzalutamide, enrolled first line mCRPC irrespectively to gene PV. The conclusion of the PROPEL trial was that the advantage was independent to PV status, however the highest advantage was reported in BRCA1/2 mutated subgroup. The conclusion of the MAGNITUDE trial was different, with a significant advantage only in the DDR mutated subgroup and the DDR non-mutated was closed for further enrollment. The combination of PARP inhibitors with ARSI represents a significant strategy in the concept of anticipation and intensification of care in mPC. However, it should not nullify the advantages of precision medicine linked to the genetic analysis of DDR.
Simultaneous Quantification and Visualization of Photosynthetic Pigments in Lycopersicon Esculentum Mill under Different Levels of Nitrogen Application with Visible-near Infrared Hyperspectral Imaging Technology
Authors: Zhao Jiangui , Chen Ning , Zhu Tingyu , Zhao Xuerong , Yuan Ming , Wang Zhiqiang , Wang Guoliang , Li Zhiwei , Du Huiling
Published: July 2023

Leaf photosynthetic pigments play a crucial role in evaluating nutritional elements and physiological states. In facility agriculture, it is vital to obtain rapidly and accurately the pigment content and distribution of leaves to ensure precise water and fertilizer management. In our research, we utilized chlorophyll a (Chla), chlorophyll b (Chlb), chlorophyll (Chll), and carotenoid (Caro) as indicators to study the variations in leaf position of Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. Under 10 nitrogen concentration applications, a total of 2610 leaves (435 samples) were collected using visible-near infrared hyperspectral imaging (VNIR-HSI). In this study, a "coarse-fine" screening strategy was proposed by using competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS) and iteratively retained informative variable (IRIV) algorithm to extract characteristic wavelengths. Finally, simultaneous and quantitative models were established using partial least squares regression (PLSR). The CARS-IRIV-PLSR was used to create models to achieve a better prediction effect. The coefficient determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), and ratio performance deviation (RPD) were predicted to be 0.8240, 1.43, 2.38 for Chla, 0.8391, 0.53, 2.49 for Chlb, 0.7899, 2.24, 2.18 for Chll, and 0.7577, 0.27, 2.03 for Caro, respectively. The combination of these models with the pseudo-color image allowed for a visual inversion of the content and distribution of pigment. These findings have important implications for guiding pigment distribution, nutrient diagnosis, and fertilization decisions in plant growth management.
New Janus Tricyclic Laddersiloxanes: Synthesis, Characterization and Reactivity
Authors: Liu Yujia , Tokuda Midori , Takeda Nobuhiro , Ouali Armelle , Unno Masafumi
Published: July 2023

The syntheses of four novel syn-type tricyclic laddersiloxanes bearing eight or six alkenyl groups are presented. These compounds possess reactive alkenyl groups on both the bridged and side silicon atoms and their structures were determined by characterization using multinuclear NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and elemental analysis techniques. To investigate their reactivity, compounds were subjected to hydrosilylation using two different silanes, and the resulting fully hydrosilylated compounds were analyzed thoroughly. Remarkably, all the synthesized laddersiloxanes displayed high thermal stability, suggesting their potential as promising precursors for the development of new hybrid materials. Additionally, preliminary findings indicate the possibility of exploiting the reactivity difference between the alkenyl groups attached to the D- and T-unit silicon atoms for the synthesis of Janus molecules. These findings highlight the potential of the reported compounds as valuable building blocks in the construction of innovative materials.
Optimization of QuEChERS Method for Antibiotic Residues Analysis in Animal Foods by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Wu Xiaoqiong , Lin Yun , Zhang Xiang , Ouyang Nan , Zhou Ying
Published: July 2023

The present study employed a modifed QuEChERS method to systematically analyze the presence of fifteen Quinolones and seven Tetracyclines antibiotic residues in local animal food. Additionally, a multi-level-four-factor Box-Behnken design (BBD) within the framework of Response surface methodology (RSM) was utilized to evaluate the various factors affecting the detection efficiency of the sample pretreament procedure. The optimization was performed by Design Expert®, the factors including volume of the acetonitrle, the addition of formic acid, the duration of extract and the addition of EDTA were combined to experiment design until reach an optimal solution. Finally, the sample test was conducted by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-linear ion trap mass spectrometry in both multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) and enhanced product ion (EPI) scan modes on a QTRAP® 5500 instrument. The overall average recoveries from actual samples fortified with 22 antibiotics at three levels ranged from 74.7 to 122.6% based on the use of matrix-fortified calibration with the variation ranging from 2.1 to 18.2% (n=6). The limits of detection and quantification were 0.3 μg kg-1 and 1.0 μg kg-1, respectively.
Differential Role of Aldosterone and Transforming Growth Factor beta-1 in Cardiac Remodelling
Authors: Kmieć Piotr , Rosenkranz Stephan , Odenthal Margarete , Caglayan Evren
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Angiotensin II, a major culprit in cardiovascular disease, activates mediators that are also involved in pathological cardiac remodelling. We aimed at investigating the effects of two of them: aldosterone (Ald) and transforming growth factor-beta-1 (TGF-β1 ), on cardiac remodelling in an in vivo model. (2) Methods: Six-week-old male wild-type (WT) and TGF-β1 -overexpressing transgenic (TGF-β1 -TG) mice were infused with subhypertensive doses of Ald for 2 weeks, and/or treated orally with eplerenone from postnatal day 21. Heart’s ventricles were examined: by morphometry, immunoblotting to assess intracellular signalling pathways, RT qPCR to determine hypertrophy and fibrosis marker genes. (3) Results: TGF-β1 -TG mice spontaneously developed cardiac hypertrophy and interstitial fibrosis, exhibited higher baseline phosphorylation of p44/42 and p38 kinases, fibronectin and ANP mRNA expression. Ald induced a comparable increase in ventricular heart weight-to-body-weight ratio and cardiomyocyte diameter in both strains, but less pronounced increase in interstitial fibrosis in transgenic compared to WT mice (23.6% vs 80.9%, p<0.005). Ald increased phosphorylation of p44/42 and p38 in WT but not TGF-β1 -TG mice. While eplerenone-enriched chow partially prevented Ald-induced cardiac hypertrophy in both genotypes and interstitial fibrosis in WT controls, it completely protected from additional fibrosis in transgenic mice. (4) Conclusions: Ald appears to induce cardiac hypertrophy independently of TGF-β1 , while in case of fibrosis downstream signalling pathways of these two factors probably converge
Recombinant Laccase: A Promising Tool for Industrial Effluent Bioremediation
Authors: Chandra Vishal , Arpita Kumari , Yadav Pramod , Raghuvanshi Viaks , Yadav Amarjeet , Ali Samim , Tripathi Vivek Mani , Prajapati Sandeep
Published: July 2023

Industrial effluents contain contaminants that pose threats to the environment and human health. Bioremediation is an environmentally friendly, sustainable, and cost-effective approach to degrade or transform pollutants using microbial enzymes. Laccase is a versatile enzyme that oxidizes a wide range of substrates, such as dyes, phenolic compounds, pesticides, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), with the consumption of molecular oxygen. Laccase can also remove heavy metals by forming complexes with organic ligands or reducing them to fewer toxic forms. However, the application of laccase in bioremediation is limited by its low production, stability, and specificity. Recombinant technology has been employed to enhance the expression, activity, and stability of laccase in various bacterial hosts. Immobilization techniques have been developed to improve the reusability and stability of laccase in different environmental conditions. This review summarizes the recent developments in the production optimization of recombinant laccase enzymes and their role in the bioremediation of industrial effluents. It also discusses the challenges of laccase-based biocatalytic systems for environmental cleanup.
Mysterious Morphology: An Investigation of the Octopus Keel and Its Association with Burrowing
Authors: Springbett Cheyne , Cordero Katie , Ellis Garrett , Haeger Carly , Onthank Kirt L
Published: July 2023

The octopus keel is a trait that has been hypothesized to be connected with burrowing in octopuses, but has never been explored in any detail. This research aimed to test for anWe investigated the association between these two traits phylogenies using two approaches independent sets of methods. First, we examined phylogenetic correlation between presence of a keel and known burrowing behavior in incirrate octopuses.by using a phylogenetic approach, benthic octopuses as a group were examined for known burrowing and the presence of a keel to determine whether an evolutionary relationship exists between these traits. Second, burrowing and non-burrowing captive Muusoctopus leioderma were evaluated for keel prominence to determine whether the keel is lost more rapidly in non-burrowing individuals. Pagel’s test for the coevolution of binary characteristics showed the model of best fit for the resulting phylogenetic tree to be one of evolutionary interdependence, and that non-burrowing Muusoctopus leioderma lost their keels over time, while burrowing individuals maintained their keels. Together, these results indicate the keel may be a trait associated with burrowing in octopuses.
Plant Functional Traits of Plants Species Colonizing Forest Gaps
Authors: Ravnjak Blanka , Bavcon Jože , Čarni Andraž
Published: July 2023

In the research, we studied the typical functional plant traits and life forms of plants that colonize forest gaps. In the research, we analysed functional plant traits of plant species growing on five forest gaps in the Dinaric fir-beech forest in Slovenia. The forest gaps were created as a result of natural disturbances. We selected 18 functional plant traits, whose values were obtained from the BiolFlor database. With the help of the JUICE program, we calculated the frequency of its occurrence on individual forest gap for each functional plant trait. Then we calculated Sperman's correlation coefficient at p<0.05, between the occurrence of individual functional plant traits and single forest gap. We found out that forest gaps are mainly colonized by perennials and herbaceous perennials and hamephytes. These are plant species that begin to flower in June and July, bloom for two or three months and are pollinated by insects, mainly hover flys and wild bees. Characteristic of colonizing plant species is also that, in addition to reproducing by seeds and spores, they also reproduce vegetatively. Besides that, birds and forest mammals are the vectors of fruit and seed dispersal of colonizing plant species.
Exploring the Future Design Approach to Ageing Based on the Double Diamond Model
Authors: Wang Xiaochun , Huang Zihan , Xu Tongfei , Li Yuting , Qin Xiangang
Published: July 2023

As the global aging trend continues to intensify, there will inevitably be more complex and diverse aging problems in the future. There is no doubt that designers have the responsibility to explore the possibilities of the future and solve the problems that will be faced in the future. Based on the Future Cone, the Double Diamond Model and the IDEO Method Cards, this study proposes a new model to guide the design practice of future aging issues in the context of aging. With the aim of validating and refining the framework, an ageing designer workshop was held where participants were asked to imagine, explore and express ideas about future ageing issues. The workshop was used to refine the proposed model. More specifically, the model includes a future concept, a design guidance process based on the Double Diamond Model, and tools that can be applied at all stages of design, which can help designers generate ideas and solutions for future aging problems, and collectively lead society to a more desirable future. Moreover, this study also explores broader directions for the development of the model and provides a reference for continued research on this topic in the future.
Controlled Fabrication of Hierarchically Structured MnO2@NiCo-LDH Nanoarrays for Efficient Electrocatalytic Urea Oxidization
Authors: Liu Wenjun , Xu Wenbo , Dong Guofa , Fang Ming
Published: July 2023

Urea, a prevalent component found in wastewater, shows great promise as an alternative substrate to water for energy-efficient hydrogen production by electrolysis. However, the sluggish kinetics of the anodic urea oxidation reaction (UOR) significantly hampers the overall reaction rate. To address this challenge, this article presents a comprehensive study focusing on the controlled fabrication of hierarchically structured nanomaterials as potential catalysts for UOR. The prepared MnO2@NiCo-LDH hybrid catalyst demonstrates remarkable improvements in reaction kinetics, benefiting from synergistic enhancements in charge transfer and efficient mass transport facilitated by its unique three-dimensional architecture. Notably, the catalyst exhibits an exceptionally low onset potential of 1.228 V and requires only 1.326 V to achieve an impressive current density of 100 mA cm-2, representing a state-of-the-art performance in UOR. These findings highlight the tremendous potential of this innovative material-designing strategy to drive advancements in electrocatalytic processes.
Enhanced Adsorption of Methylene Blue using Phosphoric-Acid Activated Hydrothermal Carbon Microspheres Synthesized from a Variety of Palm-Based Bio-Wastes
Authors: Alhawtali Saeed , El-Harbawi Mohanad , Al-Awadi Abdulrhman S. , El Blidi Lahssen , Alrashed Maher , Yin Chun-Yang
Published: July 2023

In the present study, the ability of novel carbon microspheres (CMs) derived from a date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) biomass using a hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) process and activated using phosphoric acid in removing methylene blue dye was investigated. Three types of palm-based wastes (seeds, leaflet and inedible crystallized date palm molasses) were used and converted to CMs via HTC process. The prepared samples were then activated using phosphoric acid via incipient wetness impregnation method. The CMs samples before and after activation were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), elemental analysis and scanning (CHNS), Fourier Transform-Infrared (FTIR) and Brunauer–Emmet–Teller (BET) method. The samples exhibited high BET surface areas after activation (1,584 m2/g). The methylene blue adsorption results showed good fittings to the Langmuir and Redlich-Peterson isotherm models for all activated samples. The maximum adsorption capacity achieved was 409.84 mg/g for activated CM obtained from the palm date molasses, indicating high potential for application as dye-based adsorption materials.
MOFs-Based Biosensors for the Detection of Carcinoembryonic Antigen: A Concise Review
Authors: Ahmed May M. , Greish Yaser E
Published: July 2023

Cancer has been considered one of the most serious diseases in recent decades. Early diagnosis of cancer is a crucial step for an expedited treatment. Ideally, detection of cancer biomarkers, which are usually elevated because of cancer, is the most straightforward approach to detect cancer. Consequently, the accurate, effective, and prompt detection of these compounds is an insistent need for the medical diagnosis of the disease in order to start an early therapy plan for the patients. Among these biomarkers, Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is considered one of the most important tumor markers for colorectal cancer, but it has been also used as a biomarker for other types of cancers, including breast, gastric, ovarian, pancreatic, and lung cancers. Typically, conventional CEA testing depends on immunoassay approaches, which are known to be complex, highly expensive, and time-consuming.
In this context, many biosensors were designed for the aim of detecting cancer biomarkers. The main prerequisites of these biosensors are high sensitivity, fast response, and low cost. Many nanostructures have been involved in the design of biosensors. Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) were found to be one of the most potential and promising materials for biosensing. MOFs are highly porous and crystalline materials that consist of metal clusters surrounded by organic linkers, where the assembly of these components gives rise to the exquisite geometric 3D structures of MOFs. Moreover, the unique structure and geometry of MOFs allow for a better tailoring of their design to provide properties that are needed by different categories of biosensors. In the past few years, researchers have extensively considered MOFs for their fabrication of biosensors that can be used for the early detection of cancer biomarkers. In this regard, MOFs were used solely or were further decorated with other nanostructures to introduce more accurate signals and lower limits of detection. This review briefly classifies and describes MOFs-based biosensors trials that have been published recently for the aim of detecting CEA.
Sacubitril-Valsartan and Its Results for the Treatment of Heart Failure with Preserved and Mildly Reduced Ejection Fraction
Authors: Danzmann Luiz Claudio , Forestiero Francisco , Catucci Raphael Fernandes , Tossetto Nivia
Published: July 2023

Background: The 2021 “Universal Definition of Heart Failure (HF)” Proposed the following left ventricle ejection (LVEF) phenotype classification: ≤40%; HF with intermediate LVEF: between 41-49% and HF with preserved LVEF: ≥50%. LVEF represents the percentage of left ventricular ejected volume in each cardiac cycle and Cut-points considered statistically normal are: ≥52% in men and ≥54% in women.

The prevalence HFpEF is of 35-60% among the HF phenotypes, with a facing to increase rates in relation to HFrEF and is associated with mortality rates similar to those of HFrEF. The pathophysiology of HFpEF is based on vascular and metabolic dysfunction, therefore, there is less neurohumoral stimulation compared to HFrEF.

Methodology: A systematic review was performed to report of information related to Sacubitril-valsartan and the treatment of HFrEF. Terms related to “treatment” and “brazil” were used in the databases PubMed (MEDLINE) and Scientific Electronic Library Online (SCIELO).

Results: Clinical trials testing drugs that modulate the neurohumoral system in patients with HFpEF failed to demonstrate benefit in the combined endpoint of reduced mortality/hospitalization due to HF compared to placebo to date. Sacubitril-valsartan is a drug with a mechanism of action surrogate the pathophysiological concept of HFpEF, it is safe and decreased endpoints of natriuretic peptides and left atrial structure in a phase II clinical study.

Conclusions: The PARAGON-HF trial demonstrated that sacubitril-valsartan reduced the primary endpoint of the study when assessed the pre-specified subgroup of LVEF≤57% and improved the secondary endpoints of performance status and renal function in the population.
A Spanish Survey on the Perioperative use of Antimicrobials in Small Animals
Authors: Otero Balda Ignacio , Fuertes-Recuero Manuel , Penelo Hidalgo Silvia , Espinel Rupérez Jorge , Lapostolle Benoit , Ayllón-Santiago Tania , Ortiz-Díez Gustavo
Published: July 2023

Appropriate use of perioperative antimicrobials can significantly reduce the risk of postoperative infections. However, inappropriate antimicrobial use can result in the creation of multidrug resistant bacteria, increased costs, host flora disruption, side effects, and increased risk of hospital-acquired infections This survey evaluated the current perioperative use of antimicrobials in small animals by Spanish veterinarians using a web-based questionnaire. Responses were represented using descriptive statistics and a statistical analysis of the association between demographic data and perioperative antimicrobial use was performed. Preoperative antimicrobials were administered in clean surgery by up to 68.3% of participants, 81.0% in clean-contaminated surgery and 71.3% in dirty surgery, while in the postoperative period, antimicrobials were administered by up to 86.3% of participants in clean surgery, 93.2% in clean-contaminated surgery and 87.5% in dirty surgery. Factors considered “very important” for antimicrobial selection were the degree of wound contamination, patient immunosuppression, and use of prosthesis. The most frequently used antimicrobial was beta-lactamase-resistant penicillin. Postoperative antimicrobial use was associated with participants without postgraduate training. This study highlights an overuse of antimicrobials in perioperative procedures in small animal surgery in Spain. Therefore, evidence-based guidelines and further education regarding the correct use of antimicrobial prophylaxis are recommended.
Study of the Spatial Spillover Effects of the Efficiency of Agricultural Product Circulation in Provinces along the Belt and Road under the Green Total Factor Productivity Framework
Authors: Dai Minghua , Wang Guanwei , Wang Jiaqiu , Gao Yuhan , Lu Qaunzhen
Published: July 2023

This paper bases on panel data from 30 provinces and municipalities in China spanning the period of 2010 to 2021 to examine the evolving mechanisms and influencing factors of agricultural product circulation efficiency in the provinces along the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) within the context of green total factor productivity (TFP). The study research employs various methodologies including the SBM-DDF model, GML index, system GMM, and global Moran's I index. The findings are as follows: Initially, the provinces along the BRI exhibit an overall negative growth trend in the green TFP of agricultural product circulation, with a noticeable decline observed particularly after the initiation of the BRI in 2014. Secondly, foreign investment levels significantly contribute to the positive enhancement of green TFP in agricultural product circulation among the provinces along the BRI. Eventually, environmental regulations, government support, and the level of international trade in agricultural products exert significant negative impacts. Thirdly, the results of spatial effect tests reveal substantial spatial spillover effects in the green TFP of agricultural product circulation among the provinces along the BRI, as demonstrated through examinations utilizing three distinct spatial matrices.
Upaya Dinas Perpustakaan Kabupaten Hulu Sungai Utara dalam Meningkatkan Layanan Anak Periode Tahun 2023
Authors: Fatimah Siti , Mufid Moh.
Published: July 2023

This study aims to determine efforts to improve children's services at the Library Service of Hulu Sungai Utara in 2023. The research method is a qualitative descriptive approach. Data collection techniques used literature studies and interviews with the head and librarian of the North Hulu Sungai District Library Service. The results of the study show that in an effort to improve children's services in 2023, the Library Service of Hulu Sungai Utara Regency has made a lot of improvements in the availability of various elements of children's services, namely in terms of collections, facilities,
and types of children's services that are compatible with child's needs and age. Efforts to improve it by providing computers to browse catalog data, computers for visitors, locker rooms, lobby rooms, reading corners as well as new games such as swings, ball baths, and others. Librarians/service staff at the Library Service of Hulu Sungai Utara District do not yet have children's librarians, namely librarians specifically for children's services. Efforts made are holding special programs as well as promotions directly and indirectly.
PENGARUH TEKANAN EKONOMI DAN DUKUNGAN SOSIAL TERHADAP KETAHANAN KELUARGA NARAPIDANA
Authors: Rizkillah Risda , Arinda Friska
Published: July 2023

Hukuman penjara dapat mengubah aspek ekonomi, hubungan internal, dan interaksi eksternal keluarga narapidana. Perubahan tersebut menjadi tantangan bagi keluarga narapidana dalam membentuk ketahanan keluarga. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh dari karakteristik keluarga, tekanan ekonomi, dan dukungan sosial terhadap ketahahan keluarga narapidana. Metode kuantitatif dengan desain cross-sectional study digunakan dalam penelitian ini. Responden dalam penelitian ini adalah 37 istri narapidana di Kabupaten Pemalang yang dipilih menggunakan simple random sampling. Data diperoleh melalui wawancara langsung kepada responden dengan bantuan kuesioner terstruktur menggunakan kuesioner pengukuran tekanan ekonomi keluaga (TEKEN-GA), kuesioner dukungan sosial, dan kuesioner pengukuran ketahanan keluarga (TAHAN-GA). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa hampir separuh istri narapidana memiliki tekanan ekonomi objektif terkategori rendah, satu pertiga istri narapidana memiliki tekanan ekonomi subjektif terkategori sedang, hampir tiga perempat istri narapidana memiliki dukungan sosial terkategori rendah, dan lebih dari dua perlima istri narapidana memiliki ketahanan keluarga yang terkategori sedang. Karakteristik keluarga yaitu lama pendidikan istri, pendapatan per kapita, dan aset keluarga berhubungan negatif signifikan dengan tekanan ekonomi (objektif dan subjektif) dan berhubungan positif signifikan dengan ketahanan keluarga narapidana. Analisis regresi menunjukkan bahwa ketahanan keluarga narapidana dipengaruhi negatif signifikan oleh tekanan ekonomi subjektif dan dipengaruhi positif signifikan oleh dukungan sosial.