bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A split-step Euler-Maruyama based method with partial truncation coefficients for nonlinear SDEs
Authors: Haghighi Amir
Published: March 2024

The main objective of this paper is to develop and analyze a numerical method for the strong approximation of solutions to highly nonlinear stiff It\^{o} stochastic differential equations (SDEs). In this method, we first divide the coefficients of the SDEs into linear and nonlinear parts. Then, in two fully explicit recursive phases, we apply the appropriate truncation transformation only to the nonlinear parts of the coefficients of the SDEs at each step. Theoretical aspects are introduced to establish the $L^q$-convergence theory of the new method in the finite time interval $[0,T]$. The stability and boundedness properties of the solutions generated by the new method are also investigated. An important contribution is that the region of MS-stability of the new method includes the region of MS-stability of the partially truncated method proposed by Yang et al. (2022). Moreover, we show that the proposed method preserves the exponential MS-stability and the asymptotic boundedness of the SDEs. Finally, numerical experiments are performed to compare the efficiency of this method with an existing explicit method developed for nonlinear SDEs.
MSC Classification: 65C30 , 65L07 , 65L04
Use of the Be-7 in the evaluation of an agroforestry system to control erosion in a Mediterranean climate semi-arid region of northern Algeria
Authors: KESSAISSIA Abderrahmane , Azabouche Ahmed , Morsli Bouthkil , Moula Adnane
Published: March 2024

The use of the 7Be isotope in erosion studies provides important insights on short events and on land use. The present study illustrates an application of this isotope in the evaluation of new system of plantation (agro forest system) initiated in 2019 in an area of Tifiles watershed located in the province of Chlef (north western Algeria). Two different investigation sites were used: the first one with a plantation of the agro forest type and a second one without plantation. In each site a reference area was selected for comparison purposes.7Be activity in the reference planted site was estimated at 434 ± 22.67 Bq·m− 2 whereas in the unplanted reference site it was 497 ± 25.61 Bq·m− 2. Nevertheless, the relaxation mass depth is equal to 8.33 kg·m− 2in the first site and 5.55 kg·m− 2in the second one. The results show that the planted site is exposed to reduced land losses compared to the unplanted site. This reflects the positive effect of the green cover (plantation) in controlling erosion.
Partitioned polygenic scores highlight role of beta-cell function and unfavourable fat distribution patterns in young onset type 2 diabetes in south Asians
Authors: Siddiqui Moneeza , Hodgson Sam , Williamson Alice , Stow Daniel , Jacobs Benjamin , Samuel Miriam , Gafton Joseph , Zöllner Julia , Spreckley Marie , . Genes & Health Research Team , Langenberg Claudia , Heel David van , Mathur Rohini , Finer Sarah
Published: March 2024

South Asians experience a higher risk of early-onset Type 2 diabetes (T2D) with normal BMI. However, since genetic research is largely focussed on white Europeans, the reasons for this are poorly understood. We used 12 recently derived multi-ancestry partitioned polygenic risk scores (pPS) to identify the aetiological pathways underlying T2D, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), earlier onset, progression to complications and insulin dependence, and treatment response in a south Asian cohort. Using electronic health record and genetic data from 51,108 British Pakistani and Bangladeshi individuals with T2D (n = 11,673) and GDM (n = 1,965) in the Genes & Health study, we explored associations between pPS, T2D, GDM, diabetes complications, and treatment response using sex- and ancestry-adjusted multivariable regression and Cox proportional-hazards models. A pPS representing insulin deficiency was most strongly associated with T2D per standard deviation (OR: odds ratio):1.46, 95%CI:1.42–1.50), GDM (OR:1.27, 95%CI: 1.20–1.34) and age at T2D diagnosis (beta = -1.7 years, 95%CI: -1.5 to -1.9), followed by a pPS representing an unfavourable fat distribution (lipodystrophy). Individuals at high genetic risk of both insulin deficiency and lipodystrophy were diagnosed with T2D 8.2 years earlier with BMI 3 kg/m2 lower compared to those at low genetic risk. The insulin deficiency pPS was associated with poorer response to metformin, thiazolidinediones, and SGLT2 inhibitors (post-treatment HbA1c increased from baseline by 0.51%, 1.83%, and 1.13% respectively). Higher Insulin deficiency and lipodystrophy pPS were also associated with faster progression to insulin dependence and microvascular complications. Using UK Biobank, we found that south Asians had a greater genetic burden of both these pPS compared to white Europeans. In British Pakistani and Bangladeshi individuals, genetic predisposition to insulin deficiency and lipodystrophy helps identify individuals at risk of earlier onset of type 2 diabetes, who progress faster to complications and insulin dependence, and are less likely to respond to standard diabetes management pathways.
Understanding, Measuring, and Ameliorating Workplace Violence in Healthcare: A Canadian Systematic Framework to Address a Global Healthcare Phenomenon
Authors: Schulz-Quach Christian , Lyver Brendan , Reynolds Charlene , Hanagan Trevor , Haines Jennifer , Shannon John , Pozzobon Laura Danielle , Sarraf Yasemin , Sabbah Sam , Ensafi Sahand , Bloomberg Natasha , Gorla Jaswanth , Singh Brendan , Chartier Lucas B. , Escaf Marnie , Elder Diana , Toppings Marc , Hodges Brian , Sethi Rickinder
Published: March 2024

Background: Globally, healthcare institutions have seen a marked rise in workplace violence (WPV), especially since the Covid-19 pandemic began, affecting primarily acute care and emergency departments (EDs). At the University Health Network (UHN) in Toronto, Canada, WPV incidents in EDs jumped 169% from 0.43 to 1.15 events per 1000 visits (p<.0001). In response, UHN initiated a comprehensive quality improvement (QI) project to address WPV. This study presents the project's design, implementation, results, and key takeaways, aiming to showcase effective and trauma-informed strategies for mitigating WPV in healthcare settings.
Methods: Our multi-intervention QI initiative was guided by the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) 3.0 framework. We also leveraged the SEIPS 101 tools to aid in crafting each QI intervention. This approach amalgamated various methodologies to approach WPV, incorporating literature reviews, a modified Delphi method, qualitative interviews, surveys, quantitative data gathering and pragmatic interventions.
Results: Our complex intervention contained a total of 12 subprojects. We reviewed existing literature (n=84) pertaining to WPV in healthcare. N = 229 quality indicators utilized to measure WPV in healthcare were extracted from the literature and underwent a Delphi process which yielded 17 quality indicators for a new organizational WPV dashboard. WPV theories were critically reviewed in the context of intervention development. Educational initiatives (n=2) were implemented including ad-hoc point of care training, as well as rollout of a comprehensive trauma-informed training program for WPV prevention, verbal de-escalation and management of escalated responsive behaviour. Further changes involved establishing a Code White Governance Committee, enhancing WPV reporting and addressing underreporting. Debriefing was structured into hot and cold debriefing models. Additionally, environmental indicators promoting mutual respect were introduced, alongside security enhancements including wearable video devices for all security guards and a 100% increase in ED security guards. Outreach initiatives were implemented including qualitative interviews with ED staff (n=75) and the development of a patient partner and community outreach group.
Conclusions: WPV in healthcare is a complex phenomenon that urgently requires effective solutions. We developed a 13-step framework that offers guidance for healthcare institutions seeking to develop a systemic approach in addressing WPV tailored to their organization’s needs.
Enhancing EV Charging Station Security Using A Multi-dimensional Dataset : CICEVSE2024
Authors: Buedi Emmanuel Dana , Ghorbani Ali A. , Dadkhah Sajjad , Ferreira Raphael Lionel
Published: March 2024

The rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is fundamentally transforming the automotive industry, prompting a surge in the installation of charging stations to accommodate the growing number of EVs and enhance overall mobility and user experience. Efforts to conduct machine learning-based cybersecurity research and develop solutions to address the growing threats and vulnerabilities in EV charging station infrastructure face challenges stemming from the unavailability of suitable datasets. The primary contribution of this study is addressing these challenges by publishing a multi-dimensional dataset that comprises power consumption data, network traffic and host activities of the EVSE in both benign and attack conditions. The experimental testbed utilizes a real EVSE, Raspberry Pi and standard industry communication protocols for EV charging infrastructure, with the scenarios observing the EVSE in both idle and charging states. The results of statistical analysis and machine learning classification tasks demonstrate the suitability of this dataset for baseline behavioral profiling, classification and anomaly detection tasks.
Innovative and practical tools for monitoring and assessing biodiversity status and impacts of multiple human pressures in marine systems
Authors: Borja Angel , Berg Torsten , Gundersen Hege , Hagen Anders Gjørwad , Hancke Kasper , Korpinen Samuli , Leal Miguel C. , Luisetti Tiziana , Menchaca Iratxe , Murray Ciaran , Piet GerJan , Pitois Sophie , Rodríguez-Ezpeleta Naiara , Sample James E. , Talbot Elizabeth , Uyarra María C.
Published: March 2024

Human activities at sea can produce pressures and cumulative effects in ecosystem components, that need to be monitored and assessed, in a cost-effective manner. Five Horizon European projects have joined forces to collaboratively increase our knowledge and skills to monitor and assess the ocean in an innovative way, assisting managers and policy-makers in taking decisions to maintain sustainable activities at sea. Here we present and discuss the status of some methods revised during a summer school, aiming at a better management of coasts and seas. We include novel methods to monitor the coastal and ocean waters (e.g. environmental DNA, drones, imaging and artificial intelligence, climate modelling and spatial planning) and innovative tools to assess the status (e.g. cumulative impacts assessment, multiple pressures, Nested Environmental status Assessment Tool (NEAT), ecosystem services assessment, or a new unifying approach). As a concluding remark, some of the most important challenges ahead is assessing pros and cons of novel methods, comparing them with benchmark technologies, and integrating these into long standing time series for data continuity. This requires transition periods and careful planning, which can be covered through an intense collaboration of current and future European projects on marine biodiversity and ecosystem health.
A Comparative Analysis of Transitional Analgesia with Oxycodone and Sufentanil in Patients with Early Esophageal Carcinoma Undergoing Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection
Authors: Gu Meirong , Chen Wenyi , Wu Xiaowen , Wu Tianjun , Zhang Xin , Qian Yiling
Published: March 2024

Background: Postoperative pain management is a critical consideration in patients undergoing endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for early esophageal carcinoma. Conventional transitional analgesia methods involve the administration of either oxycodone or sufentanil. However, the efficacy of oxycodone in the context of patients with early esophageal carcinoma undergoing ESD under general anesthesia remains uncertain. This study aims to compare the postoperative analgesic effects of oxycodone and sufentanil in patients undergoing ESD for early esophageal carcinoma patients under general anesthesia.
Methods: In this randomized double-blind controlled study, 86 patients scheduled for ESD surgery under general anesthesia were enrolled. They were randomly assigned to the oxycodone group (O group, n = 29), sufentanil group (S group, n = 30), or normal saline group (N group, n = 26) using a double-blind method. Thirty minutes before the end of the surgery, patients in the O group received oxycodone (0.1 mg/kg), those in the S group received sufentanil (0.1 μg/kg), and those in the N group received an identical volume of normal saline. Various parameters, including general patient conditions, intraoperative anesthetic medication, vital sign variations throughout the perioperative period, postoperative recovery duration, decannulation time, and adverse reactions during the recovery period were meticulously recorded. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores at rest and during movement at 0 h, 12 h, and 24 h post-surgery, along with the incidence of pain relief and malignant vomiting, were also documented.
Results: No statistically significant differences were observed in general patient conditions, intraoperative anesthetic dosages, or vital sign changes among the three groups. However, patients in the O group exhibited significantly prolonged recovery and decannulation times compared to the S and N groups,without impeding overall recovery. Statistically significant differences in adverse reactions during the recovery period were observed (P<0.05). Furthermore, patients in the O group demonstrated decreased VAS scores at 0 h, 12 h, and 24 h post-surgery, regardless of rest or movement, compared to the S and N groups. Although VAS scores in the S group were significantly reduced at postoperative 0 h and 12 h at rest compared to the N group, no significant differences were noted in the reduction of VAS scores during movement. The incidence of severe vomiting did not significantly differ among the three postoperative groups.
Conclusion: When compared with sufentanil, oxycodone exhibited more prolonged and comprehensive analgesic effects in patients undergoing esophageal ESD under general anesthesia, with no significant side effects. These findings contribute to our understanding of transitional analgesia strategies in this specific patient population.
Relationship of Physical Activity to depression：Coping Styles and Loneliness Mediating Effects among College Students
Authors: Fu Huaying , Guo Siqiang , Guo Kelei
Published: March 2024

Purpose: To explore the relationship between physical activity and depression among college students and the mediating role of coping styles and loneliness in the relationship.
Methods: A stratified whole group sampling method was used to survey 1112 college students using the Physical Activity Scale, Depression Scale, Coping Styles Scale, and Loneliness Scale.
Results: (1) Physical activity was significantly negatively correlated with depression (r =-0.51), and the direct path of physical activity on depression was significant (β= -0.21, t= -8.418 , p＜0.01), (2) Physical activity positively predicted coping styles (β= 0.39，t= 14.202，p＜0.01) and negatively predicted loneliness (β= -0.40，t= -15.039，p＜0.01), and Coping styles significantly and negatively predicted depression (β= -0.28，t= -10.281，p＜0.01) and loneliness (β= -0.41，t= -17.187，p＜0.01), and Loneliness significantly and positively predicted depression (β= 0.26，t= 10.289，p＜0.01).
Conclusion: Physical activity can not only directly affect depression, but also indirectly through the separate mediating effects of coping styles and loneliness, as well as the chain mediating effects of the two.
The Influence of Long-Term Football Training on Neural Representation of Action Verb Semantics
Authors: Wang Jian , Mou Hong , Liu Likai , Zhou Chenglin , Wang Yingying
Published: March 2024

The debate on whether sensorimotor experience can modulate the neural representation of action verbs is ongoing. This study investigated whether extensive football training alters the neural patterns representing action verbs in sensorimotor and related regions, focusing on effector-specific changes. Specifically, we assessed if training experiences of specific effectors influence semantic neural representation patterns in corresponding sensorimotor areas. Employing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), subjects (both football experts and novices) engaged in an implicit reading task, silently reading action verbs and identifying the involved body part. We used multivariate pattern analyses (MVPA) to classify effector-related information and assess decoding accuracy in the right paracentral gyrus (PCG) and left postcentral gyrus (PoCG) associated with action execution, and the left inferior parietal lobule (IPL) and left precentral gyrus (PrG) linked to action observation. Our findings revealed that both experts and novices could decode effector information from action verbs across all regions of interest. Notably, distinct activation patterns between experts and novices were observed in execution regions (PCG and PoCG), but not in observation regions (IPL and PrG), highlighting a specialized neural adaptation in PCG and PoCG. Furthermore, a significant correlation between decoding accuracy and training duration was found among football experts. Univariate analysis showed that experts exhibited higher activation intensity when processing foot-related verbs. In summary, our results suggest that long-term football training effector-specifically modulates the neural representation of action verbs in sensorimotor and related areas, predominantly driven by motor rather than sensory experience.
The impact of working conditions on commitment of academic employees: A socio-affective perspective
Authors: Daweti Baphiwe , Khumalo Njabulo , Edwige Ngo-Henha Pauline
Published: March 2024

Academic employees face declining working conditions that may reduce the level of commitment to resource-constrained public higher education institutions. The purpose of the study is to examine whether strong social interactions at work affect academic employee commitment amid a poor state of physical working conditions in under-resourced public higher education institutions. A cross-sectional survey obtained data from 63 academic employees across six faculties at a large, under-resourced public higher education institution located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Academic employees taught many under-prepared students, primarily from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, using limited physical resources. The linear regression (r = –.0.52, CR = 3.21, p = < .001) results showed that stable social interactions were associated with high employee commitment in resource-constrained institutions. Academic employees remain highly committed to the institution despite the poor physical working conditions. The study extends the affective perspective by showing that employees build regular social interactions to remain highly committed and overlook limited access to physical workplace resources. Leaders ought to create regular social interaction opportunities between employees to foster high employee commitment amid inadequate physical working conditions.
Effect of royal jelly on chronıc lıver and kıdney damage ınduced by cadmıum chlorıde ın rats
Authors: ATASEVER AYHAN , YAĞLI KÜBRA , ŞENTÜRK MERYEM , EKEBAŞ GÖRKEM , EREN MERYEM
Published: March 2024

Forty eight rats were used to evaluate the protective effect of royal jelly (RJ) against chronic liver and kidney damage induced by cadmium chloride (CdCl2). In the histopathology of the CdCl2 group, the findings of inflammation and necrosis in liver sections, inflammation in kidney sections, proximal tubule degeneration and adiposity in the glomerulus were similar to the histopathological findings in the CdCl2 + RJ group. In immunohistochemical staining, it was determined that Caspase-3, Iba-1, KIM-1 and Tnf-a immunoreactivities in the liver and kidney tissue sections of the CdCl2-only group (Group III) were significantly increased compared to the control groups (Groups I, II). In the CdCl2 + RJ applied group (Group IV), Caspase-3, Iba-1, KIM-1 and TNF-α immunoreactivities were observed to be partially reduced compared to the CdCl2 (Group III) group. It was determined that AST, ALT, glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol and creatinine levels increased in the CdCl2 group and decreased in the CdCl2 + RJ group. While MDA levels increased in the group given only CdCl2 (Group III) compared to the control groups (Groups I, II), GSH levels decreased. In the CdCl2 + RJ group (Group IV), it was determined that MDA levels decreased and GSH levels increased compared to the CdCl2 (Group III) group. While the amounts of cadmium, zinc, copper, iron, magnesium and calcium in the liver tissue homogenates increased significantly in the CdCl2 group, it was observed that they decreased numerically in the CdCl2 + RJ group. This result shows that royal jelly application against CdCl2 toxicity does not prevent liver and kidney tissue damage, but can bring serum biochemical parameters, lipid peroxidation and trace element levels closer to control group levels.
In vitro influence of plant extracts beyond taxonomy: a comparison ...
Authors: AUREL VASIU , MARINA SPÎNU , EMOKE PALL , SILVANA POPESCU , DANA ȘANDRU CARMEN , KABA JAROSLAW , GHEORGHIȚĂ DUCA
Published: March 2024

Detailed information on the in vivo activity of vegetal extracts on the immune system in birds and mammals, mainly the farmed ones, is helpful in improving their resilience and welfare. Therefore there is need to investigate the exact roles of active plant components in animals, mainly their influence on the immune system, which is crucial for antimicrobial resistance. The farming system, serving principally economic aims, overlooks the physiological support of several extremely stress-sensitive, short-lived species such as chickens or rabbits. Recovering from the damage caused by adverse microclimates or nutritional deficiencies in these species can be a prolonged process often standing beyond their economic lifespan. Additionally, the compromised condition makes them susceptible to various diseases, particularly microbial or parasitic infections which can easily take hold in the weakened state. Under these circumstances, it seems very important to select and study natural enhancers of the immune response. Setting up optimal therapeutic protocols and establishing the optimal age range and administration route boost their effects. The in vitro tests, performed mainly on isolated cell- or cell-line cultures, proved the beneficial influence of certain vegetal extracts, which diminished oxidative stress and tumor growth, as well as overcame the negative effects of active oxygen species, increasing the synthesis of cytokines. The study aimed a) to establish a potential dose-effect relationship for selected plant extracts, b) considering that belonging to either of groups Aves or Mammalia changes the response to these extracts. Blood samples taken from hens and rabbits were subjected to in vitro blast transformation tests (RPMI 1640 culture medium, 48 hours of incubation in a 5% CO2 atmosphere) to estimate the effects of alcoholic extracts of Calendula officinalis, Vaccinum myrtilus, Echinacea purpurea, and Hippophae rhamnoides at 1.5% and 6.5% concentrations by a colorimetric assay (orto-toluidine test). The results in hens indicated maximal stimulation indices, in a reverse dose-dependent manner, for Vaccinum myrtillus (81.93 ± 18.74% for 1.5% concentration) and Calendula officinalis (74.70 ± 22.15% for 1.5% concentration). In rabbits, all the extracts had stimulating effects, Calendula (80.72 ± 6.82% for 6.5% concentration) and Echinacea (68.67 ± 17.04% for 6.5% concentration) being more effective than Vaccinum (65.06 ± 35.78% at 1.5% concentration). Obviously, the in vitro effects of the extracts depended on the phylogeny of the animal and the plant of origin. Thus, the birds reacted to certain extracts in an inversely dose-dependent manner, while in rabbits, the effects were directly dose-dependent. The results highlight the importance of preliminary tests in selecting an appropriate vegetal extract for immune stimulation/modulation of a given species of animals.
Cancers as structures corresponding to "infinite" ("immortal") fractals
Authors: Madej Janusz A.
Published: March 2024

It has been shown that the proliferation of cancer cells probably corresponds, as the cell proliferates, to “infinite” branching fractal (fractus – broken) structures. A cancer has an infinite number of such structures, compared to the finite number in blood vessels in a healthy body, but only until the macroorganism or the cancer itself dies. It can also be assumed that there is an “infinite fractality” of cancer cells in vitro because of the constant conditions of their culture and the absence of need for neoangiogenesis. Primary tumors and their metastases have a fractal outline (correlative CD) that is infinite, unpredictable, constantly growing, and non-stochastic, resulting from their development, progression, and “immortality”. Their fractality is non-linear, i.e. it speeds up, slows down, or may temporarily be stopped for many years. Determining the fractal size of a tumor can probably be used to assess the degree of its malignancy and thus improve therapy.
Hipertensão arterial sistêmica e o uso de plantas em comunidade quilombola
Authors: Alves Dailon de Araújo , Leite Giovana Mendes de Lacerda , De Oliveira Célida Juliana , De Beltrão Izabel Cristina Santiago Lemos , Kerntopf Marta Regina , De Oliveira Dayanne Rakelly , Silva Andressa de Alencar
Published: March 2024

A Hipertensão Arterial, uma doença crônica não transmissível, sempre despertou interesses da comunidade científica a fim de desenvolverem novas formas de tratamento que pudesse auxiliar a atual terapia farmacológica. Diante disso, objetivou-se com este trabalho identificar os saberes e práticas acerca das plantas medicinais utilizadas para o tratamento da hipertensão arterial sistêmica. Trata-se de um estudo descritivo de abordagem qualitativa, realizado em uma comunidade quilombola do município de Araripe, Ceará, entre os meses de outubro e dezembro de 2016. Os dados foram organizados de acordo com a técnica do Discurso do Sujeito Coletivo. A pesquisa contou com 19 participantes e através de seus discursos foi possível evidenciar os vários saberes atrelados à doença hipertensão e à terapia alternativa com plantas medicinais. Para tanto, ressalta-se a importância da valorização do conhecimento tradicional, a fim de que os saberes populares possam contribuir positivamente para o enfrentamento da hipertensão arterial sistêmica.
Black Carbon and Particulate Matter Concentrations: Air Pollution Levels in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: H. De La Cruz Alex , M. da Silva Luis Fhernando , M. Silva Luiz Felipe , A. dos Anjos Vanessa , M. Godoi Ricardo Henrique , Gioda Adriana
Published: March 2024

This research explores the concentration of black carbon (BC) in particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) from ten monitoring stations in the Metropolitan Region of Rio de Janeiro (MRRJ), Bonsucesso (BS), Botafogo (BOT), Copacabana (COP), Gavea (GAV), Gericino (GER), Lagoa (LAG), Recreio dos Bandeirantes (REC), Santa Cruz (SC), Castelo (CAS) and Urca (URC), covering a range of pollution sources (vehicular, industrial, and residential). PM samples were collected using filter units every week from January 2018 to December 2019. Results revealed high concentrations of PM10 in BS (86 ± 22 μg m-3) and PM2.5 in REC (30 ± 11 μg m-3). Likewise, both monitoring stations exceeded the international limits. In 2019, BC in PM10 decreased in the following order: BS > CAS > GER > BOT > SC > GAV. For 2018, BC in PM2.5 decreased as follows REC > LAG > SC, while 2019 REC > GAV > LAG > COP > URC. REC and BS have industrial and commercial activities and intense vehicular traffic. During the period of study, average BC concentrations in PM10 and PM2.5 were 3.3 ± 1.5 and 1.9 ± 0.70 μg m-3, respectively. These findings indicate that BC concentrations should be monitored and regulated in locations with high levels of traffic-related air pollution for offering new insights and guiding efforts to minimize emissions and enhance public health.
A FEW WORDS ABOUT THE HISTORICAL CONTEXT AND PROTOTYPES IN THE POEM THE SONG OF EVERLASTING SORROW (806) BY BAI JUYI
Authors:   RUDN University, Ignatenko Alexander
Published: March 2024

The article offers an analysis of some structural features of the poetic semantics of the poem The Song of Everlasting Sorrow by Bai Juyi (白居易《长恨歌》, 806) in biographical, historical and cultural contexts, and also draws a parallel with possible prototypes. In this regard, the main purpose of the article is to consider some semantic and structural connections related to the chronotope, archetypes and prototypes on the material of the The Song. During the work on the study, it was found out that the narrative model of “avoiding facts” (避实就虚) was used in the plot of the poem, superimposed on factual material and related to the biography of the emperors Han Wudi (汉武帝) and Tang Xuanzong (唐玄宗).
RECEPTION OF BAI JUYI’S PROSE IN BULGARIA: HOW DO FOREIGN AUDIENCES PERCEIVE HIS WORKS AFTER 1250 YEARS?
Authors:   Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, Teodosieva Hristina , Tsankova Antonia ,   Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”
Published: March 2024

The poet from the time of Tang dynasty (唐朝) Bai Juyi (白居易, 772–846) left a lasting mark on the history of Chinese literature. His innovation in literature and free spirit, which does not obey external requirements, are evident not only in his poetry, but also in his prosaic texts. Nowadays his prose is relatively less well known than his poetry. The paper presents a research on the reception of his work “A Script for the Thatched Cottage in Mount Lu” 《( 庐山草堂记》) in Bulgaria. It was conducted through surveys among Bulgarian students, who study Chinese, and students from other humanities majors. Conclusions were drawn about the perception of this text and by comparing the respondents’ answers, the importance of background knowledge for the perception of this work was studied. A translation of this text has been presented in Bulgarian for the first time. The article will also include an analysis of A Script for the Thatched Cottage in Mount Lu, both based on students’ answers and through independent interpretation.
THE LIVING STYLE OF “WALKING WITH ILLNESS” IN BAI JUYI’S PULMONARY DISEASES WRITINGS
Authors:   Military Academy, Ho Chi-Chu
Published: March 2024

Pulmonary Disease has become a hot topic since Covid-19 attacked in 2019. Back to Tang Dynasty, Pulmonary Diseases were common in literati field. Poets used characteristics of the “lungs” that manage the energy and store spirit to reveal their true feelings. On the other hand, the lungs are “delicate” and “the only inner organ that is connecting to the outside by the nostril”, which gets infected by the virus the easiest. It reflected literati’s ups and downs in their careers, so as to express their sorrows and painful sentiments. Therefore, Pulmonary Diseases has become a “literati disease” to convey poets’ original emotions and expressed their unfinished achievements. Pulmonary Disease was one of the diseases that Bai Juyi was suffered for. During expatriation to Jiangzhou, pulmonary disease became the illness root due to the unfavorable climate and the invasion of cold pathogens. Later, traveling to Suzhou and Hangzhou also aggravated the disease. For Bai Juyi, Pulmonary Disease is not only a state of life, also a writing object that expressed specific emotions. Through the symptoms of “cough” and “thirst” from pulmonary disease, he revealed the hunger and cold disorders, also the deprivation of life when he was banished from the court. Also, he presented calm and adapting manner when he was suffering for the disease, which shaped his writing features with full of self-disposition. These features were transformed from the energy and store spirit in lungs. Furthermore, Bai Juyi showed his relaxing manner and leisure mind even he had the “thirst” of “desire of alcohol” which healed the mental emotions but hurt the physical lungs. Bai Juyi was entangled with pulmonary disease for half of his life, but he lived until seventy-five years old. To show the world about his living style of “walking with the illness” and “prolonging life with the disease”, his writings exuded peaceful and elegant with spontaneity.
“DEPEND ON HEAVEN FOR FOOD”: A WELL-KNOWN PROVERB IN LITERATURE, ILLUSTRATIONS AND COMMENTS
Authors:   Russian Academy of Sciences Library, Vinogradova Tatiana
Published: March 2024

“Depend on Heaven for food” (kao tian chi fan, 靠天吃飯) is a well-known Chinese proverb. The presumed author of this expression was Wen Kang (文康), his novel Legend of Heroes and Heroines (儿女英雄傳) Ernü Yingxiong Zhuan first published in late 1870s became very popular. The expression “depend on Heaven for food” is from the 33rd chapter of the novel. Yet, the image under the title Picture Depend on Heaven for Food (kao tian chi fan tu, 靠天吃飯圖) appeared earlier than novel: two stone steles dated 1813 with the same picture, but different commentary text. In the academician Vasyli M. Alekseev’s collection of Chinese popular prints nianhua there are several engravings on this subject, the explanations for which are in the notebooks of the Chinese xiansheng mentors V. M. Alekseev to his collections of folk art (St. Petersburg Branch of the Archive of the Russian Academy of Sciences, fund 820, inv. 1, files 473, 479a). And finally we can compare xiansheng comments to (kao tian chi fan tu, 靠天吃飯圖) with the essay on the same subject by Lu Xun in his Qie Jie Ting Essay Collection (雜文集: 且介亭雜文二 集, 1935).
ON THE INFLUENCE OF THE VIMALAKIRTI NIRDESA SUTRA ON WANG WEI’S POETRY
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Orlova Elena
Published: March 2024

Wang Wei (699–759), an outstanding poet of the Tang period, was brought up in a Buddhist environment from a young age and remained a follower of Buddhist teachings throughout his life. Being a layman who chose the civil service career, he was acquainted and communicated with monks of different schools of Buddhism. He knew well canonical Mahayana scriptures that, clearly, had a certain impact on the poet’s worldview and works, and in many ways became his source of inspiration. One of these scriptures was undoubtedly the Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra (English: The Sutra of The Teaching of Vimalakirti; Chinese: Weimojie suo shuo jing, 維摩詰所說經). In this paper, the author, through the analysis of a number of Wang Wei’s works, makes an attempt to identify the impact of the conceptual component of the sutra on the poet’s worldview, which is transmitted in the themes and interpretations of his poems.
TRANSLATIONS AND DISSEMINATION OF CONTEMPORARY RUSSIAN LITERATURE IN CHINA: ACHIEVEMENTS, CHALLENGES AND ADVICES
Authors:   Fudan University, Li Xinmei
Published: March 2024

This article is devoted to the review of translations and dissemination of contemporary Russian literature in China, which begins in the mid-1980s. It contains three parts. The first part presents the achievements in the translation and dissemination of contemporary Russian literature in China. According to the number of editions of translated individual books, contemporary Russian writers are divided into four ranks. Alexander Solzhenitsyn belongs to the first rank, who has 26 editions of translated works. The second rank includes 5 writers with 10–20 editions of translated works. They are Nikolai Leonov, Yuri Bondarev, Daniil Granin, Viktor Astafiev and Sergey Lukyanenko. The third rank includes 21 writers with 2–8 editions of translated books. For example, Lyudmila Ulitskaya, Valentin Rasputin, Vladimir Makanin and others. The fourth rank includes 37 writers who have one work translated into Chinese in a separate book. The second part of the article provides a detailed analysis of the main incentives for the translation and dissemination of contemporary Russian literature in China.Chinese publishing houses play the biggest role in organizing translation and release. Many translated works are also published in various magazines. In recent years, the governments of Russia and China actively support the publication of literary works. The third part of the article puts forward problems in the organization of translation and dissemination of contemporary Russian literature in China, as well as offers appropriate recommendations and tips for solving these problems.
TRADITIONS OF STUDYING AND TEACHING MODERN MONGOLIAN LITERATURE AT ST. PETERSBURG STATE UNIVERSITY
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Petrova Maria
Published: March 2024

Study of Mongolian literature at St. Petersburg University began in the 19th century. In 1855, as part of the reorganization of Oriental studies in Russia, Faculty of Oriental Languages was transferred from Kazan to St. Petersburg. A. M. Pozdneev (1851–1920) was the first to systematically study Mongolian literature at the department. Academician B. Ya. Vladimirtsov (1884–1931) significantly developed and deepened research in the field of Mongolian literature. An outstanding academician S. A. Kozin (1879–1956) made a huge contribution to the study of Mongolian literature. From 1937 to 1976 T. A. Burdukova (1912–1987) taught at the Department of Mongolian Philology. In 1953, after completing her postgraduate studies at the Department of Mongolian Philology, L. K. Gerasimovich (1923–2015) began her teaching career. In 1987, M. P. Petrova (born 1964) was hired as an assistant at the Department of Mongolian Philology. For more than half a century of the existence of the Faculty of Asian and African Studies within the walls of St. Petersburg University, the Department of Mongolian Philology (later — department of Mongolian Studies and Tibetology) has developed a strong tradition of studying and teaching new and latest Mongolian literature. And today we can talk about the presence at St. Petersburg State University of its own scientific school of research into the history of the development of literature of the Mongolian-speaking peoples of the world.
THE PROJECTION OF THE NATIONAL INTEGRATION AND COLONIAL HISTORY: THE IMPLIED MEANING OF THE IMAGE OF “MOUNTAIN PEOPLE” IN THE LEGENDS OF TŌNO
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Liu Limei
Published: March 2024

The Legends of Tōno by Yanagita Kunio (1875–1962) is considered to be a Japanese folklore classic and an excellent literary work as well. This fact caused a long-standing debate about the “authenticity” and “fictionality” of this work. This article analyzes the key part of the book — the “mountain people” series of stories, and finds that this image has three prototypes in the real world: monsters in folk belief, the Ainu people of Japan, and the indigenous peoples of colonial Taiwan. This article further analyzes Yanagida Kunio’s attitude towards Japanese colonialism and finds that he fundamentally opposed the barbarism of Japanese colonialism. In the text of The Legends of Tōno, the author arranged three narrative models of the “mountain people scare the villagers” and finally constructed a holistic literary narrative logic, showing the ideal model of peaceful coexistence between lowlanders and mountain people, or colonizers and indigenous peoples.
Land use changes and climate parameters assessments in a tropical highland region of Cameron Highlands, Malaysia
Authors: Arumugam Agilambigai , Sigid Muhammad Fikri , Ab Rahman Azimah , Fadhullah Widad
Published: March 2024

Tropical highland regions are susceptible to climate change and natural disasters due to their geographical location and hilly terrain. The objectives of this study are to determine land use land cover (LULC) changes in the Cameron Highlands and analyse the climatic parameters of the Cameron Highlands. This study integrates LULC analysis using remote sensing techniques and 10-year climatic parameters data to evaluate the impact of climate variability on the sustainability of the Cameron Highlands. Based on the validation results, the overall accuracy of LULC was 95.42% in 2016, 96.60% in 2018, and 97.40% in 2020. The results show an 18% rise in agriculture, a 16% increase in urban growth, and an 8.14% decline in forest coverage in Tanah Rata and Ringlet, Cameron Highlands, from 2016 to 2020. The Mann -Kendall and Sen slope indicated a statistically significant increasing trend in rainfall (Kendall's Tau, z = 0.102, p < 0.0001 and Sen value= 0.131, p < 0.001, respectively) and temperature (Kendall's Tau, z = 0.151, p < 0.001 and Sen value = 0.294, p < 0.001, respectively) from 2012 to 2021, increasing the area's susceptibility towards climate change impact and natural disasters. This study highlights the vulnerability of the Cameron Highlands to natural disasters, emphasizing the crucial need for efficient land management in slope areas.
Marine Microalgae Schizochytrium sp. S31: Potential Source for New
Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Agent
Authors: Hammadi Al-Ogaidi Doaa Abdullah , Karaçam Sevinç , Gurbanov Rafig , Vardar-Yel Nurcan
Published: March 2024

Background:

The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria necessitates the discovery of
new, safe, and bioactive antimicrobial compounds. The antibacterial and antibiofilm activity of
microalgae makes them a potential candidate for developing natural antibiotics to limit microbial
infection in various fields.

Objective:

This study aimed to analyze the antibacterial effect of the methanolic extract of
Schizochytrium sp. S31 microalgae by broth microdilution and spot plate assays.

Methods:

The antibacterial effects of Schizochytrium sp. S31 extract was studied on gramnegative
pathogens, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli 35218, Klebsiella pneumonia,
which cause many different human infections, and the gram-positive pathogen Streptococcus
mutans. At the same time, the antibiofilm activity of the Schizochytrium sp. S31 extract on Pseudomonas
aeruginosa and Escherichia coli 35218 bacteria were investigated by crystal violet
staining method.

Results:

Schizochytrium sp. S31 extract at a 60% concentration for 8 hours displayed the highest
antibacterial activity against P. aeruginosa, E. coli 35218, and K. pneumonia, with a decrease of
87%, 92%, and 98% in cell viability, respectively. The experiment with Streptococcus mutans
revealed a remarkable antibacterial effect at a 60% extract concentration for 24 hours, leading to
a notable 93% reduction in cell viability. Furthermore, the extract exhibited a dose-dependent
inhibition of biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa and E. coli 35218. The concentration of 60%
extract was identified as the most effective dosage in terms of inhibition.

Conclusion:

This research emphasizes the potential of Schizochytrium sp. S31 as a natural antibacterial
and antibiofilm agent with promising applications in the pharmaceutical sectors. This is
the first study to examine the antibacterial activity of Schizochytrium sp. S31 microalgae using
broth microdilution, spot plate assays, and the antibiofilm activity by a crystal staining method.
The findings of this study show that Schizochytrium sp. S31 has antibacterial and antibiofilm
activities against critical bacterial pathogens.
Formulation and Evaluation of Hard Lozenges by Using Garlic Tincture
Authors: Popli Anmol , Handa Uditi , Kumar Kuldeep , Sharma Prerna , Guarve Kumar , Parmar Ishika , Chhabra Lavish , Nagpal Kajal , Rani Nidhi , Verma Inderjeet
Published: March 2024

Background:

Lozenges are one of the more well-liked and inventive oral confectionery
products in the market. The lozenges also act as solid medications that are flavored, sweetened, and
meant to be sucked into the mouth/pharynx or held over that cavity. Garlic contains anti-microbial
agents which help to reduce the impact of cough and reduce it.

Aims:

The goal of the current research is to formulate and investigate herbal lozenges by using garlic
tinctures with their antimicrobial action to cure the infection caused by microbes.

Methods:

Hard lozenges were prepared by Heating and congealing techniques and statistical analysis
was done by using one sample chi-square test (IBM SPSS version 20).

Results:

Hard lozenges were formulated by using garlic tinctures with minimum excipients. According
to ICH recommendations, stability experiments were conducted. According to the stability investigations,
there were no major changes noticed during the period after the one-month stability test. The antimicrobial
activity was studied under different time intervals after 8-72 hours. The inhibition zone
value for the test sample was found to be 0.1-0.5 mm and for the standard sample was noticed from
0.5-0.8 mm, respectively. The statistical test outcome revealed, no remarkable difference shown between
the prepared and the marketed formulation (p>0.05).

Conclusion:

From the present work, it was concluded that the prepared lozenges have similar result
with minimum ingredients as compared to the marketed formulation (Tulsi-ginger lozenges). Hence,
the formulation, testing, and antimicrobial activity for oral use in garlic lozenges were effective.
siRNA Targeting ECE-1 Partially Reverses Pulmonary Arterial Hypertensionassociated
Damage in a Monocrotaline Model
Authors: Blancas-Napoles Citlali Margarita , Cabrera-Becerra Sandra Edith , Sierra-Sánchez Vivany Maydel , Ocampo-Ortega Sergio Adrian , Garcia-Rubio Vanessa Giselle , Romero-Nava Rodrigo , Huang Fengyang , Hong Enrique , Aguilera-Méndez Asdrúbal , Villafaña Santiago
Published: March 2024

Aims:

The aim of this study was to develop a possible treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension.

Background:

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a rare disease characterised by a pulmonary arterial pressure greater than 20 mmHg. One of the factors
that contribute to PAH is an increase in the production of endothelin-1, a polypeptide that increases vascular resistance in the pulmonary arteries,
leading to increased pulmonary arterial pressure and right ventricular hypertrophy.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to design, synthesize, and evaluate two siRNAs directed against endothelin-1 in a rat model of PAH induced with
monocrotaline.

Methods:

Wistar rats were administered monocrotaline (60 mg/kg) to induce a PAH model. Following two weeks of PAH evolution, the siRNAs were
administered, and after two weeks, right ventricular hypertrophy was evaluated using the RV/LV+S ratio, blood pressure, weight, and relative
expression of ECE-1 (Endothelin-converting enzyme-1) mRNA (messenger RNA) by RT-PCR (real-time PCR).

Results:

The monocrotaline group showed an increase in the hypertrophy index and in ECE-1 mRNA, as well as a significant decrease in weight compared
to the control group, while in the monocrotaline + siRNA group, a significant decrease was observed in the relative expression of ECE-1 mRNA,
as well as in right ventricular hypertrophy.

Conclusions:

Based on the above information, we conclude that the administration of siRNAs directed to ECE-1 decreases the damage associated with PAH.