bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
KENTLİLİK BİLİNCİ VE KENTLİ HAKLARI: BATMAN İLİ ÜZERİNE BİR UYGULAMA
Authors: Avcı Sultan , Aydın Halil İbrahim
Published: November 2024

Amaç: Bu çalışma ile Batman halkının ikamet ettikleri mekan ile olan bağlarını güçlendirecek yöntemler ile sosyal yaşamlarını devam ettirdikleri kentin farkına varmalarını sağlayarak kentli halka farkındalık yaratılacak süreçleri kentle pozitif bir hassasiyet içerisinde kalarak, kentle olan sosyal bağlarını aktif bir biçimde aidiyet bilinci ile güçlendirerek yaşanabilirlik ve sürdürülebilirlik bağlamında “Kent Bilinci” ve “Kentli Hakları” nın öneminin incelenmesi amaçlanmaktadır
Tasarım/Yöntem:Araştırmanın örneklemini Batman kentinde yaşayan 18 yaş ve üstü 617 kişi oluşmaktadır. Araştırmanın verileri SPSS programı yardımı ile anket yöntemi uygulanmıştır. Elde edilen bulgulardan hareketle kentlilik bilinci ve kentli hakları farkındalıkları değerlendirilmesi yapılmıştır.
Bulgular:Yapılan analiz sonucunda kentlilik bilinci düzeyi ve kentli hakları farkındalığı düzeyi Batman ilinde yüksek çıkmıştır.
Sınırlılıklar: Çalışmanın alanı Batman merkezdeki mahalleler ile sınırlandırılmıştır. Batman Merkez sınırları içinde yaşamını sürdüren ve 18 yaş ve üstü olan tüm bireyler çalışma kapsamına dâhil edilmiştir.
Özgünlük/Değer:Batman İl’inde Petrolün sağladığı avantajlar Batman İl’inde kentlilik bilinci ve kentli hakların kullanımının büyüme ve gelişim sürecinde yıllar arasında farklılık göstermesi Batman ilinde böylesi bir çalışmanın literatüre farklı bir boyut kazandırmasına olanak sağlayacaktır.
Investigation of Pollution Haven Hypothesis for China: A Fourier ADL Cointegration Analysis
Authors: Han Ayşegül , Konat Gökhan , Polat Mehmet Ali
Published: November 2024

Purpose: This study tests the Pollution Paradise Hypothesis by examining the role of FDI and economic growth on China's load factor over the period 1979-2021. The main objective of this study is to assess the environmental impact of FDI and economic growth in China.
Design/Methodology: Various econometric analyses have been carried out to examine FDI, economic growth indicators and the freight capacity factor. In this context, conventional ADF and Fourier ADF unit root tests were applied to the freight capacity factor, FDI and economic growth series and then to the shocks to these series.
Findings: In conclusion, it is emphasised that in order to achieve sustainable development goals in China, policy makers should adopt more effective environmental sustainability policies, taking into account the impact on FDI and economic growth.
Limitations: It tests the Pollution Paradise hypothesis by examining the role of FDI and economic growth on the load factor in China. The research is therefore specific to China.
Originality/Value: This study aims to contribute to the literature by assessing the environmental impact of FDI in China in a more holistic way, and from a perspective that has not been analysed before.
SIMULATION OF THE WHEEL SEPARATION PROCESS FROM A BUMP FOR A WHEELED MACHINE WITH HYDRO-PNEUMATIC SUSPENSION
Authors: Dushchenko Vladyslav , Nanivskyi Roman , Vorontsov Sergii , Masliev Vyacheslav , Masliev Anton
Published: November 2024

A mathematical model of the process of wheel detachment from bumps for a wheeled machine with hydropneumatic suspension, which has a new kinematic scheme, is presented. Kinematic and dynamic separations, calculation of the moment of their onset, dynamics of wheel movement during the separation process and the moment of its meeting with an unevenness and restoration of contact of the tire with the road are considered. Accurate kinematic and power factors are calculated, including the characteristics of the elastic hinges of the suspension arms. Analytical dependences of the calculation of displacement and speed of movement of the pneumohydraulic spring rod, as well as the angle and speed of rotation of the lower lever in the process of separation of the wheel from the ground were obtained. The differential equation of the movement of the wheel in the process of separation from the unevenness was formulated. The obtained results will allow to ensure high accuracy of mathematical modeling of the movement of a wheeled vehicle over unevenness when studying the smoothness of the course, the load of the power plant, transmission and undercarriage components, as well as ensuring the controllability and stability of the movement.
THE ORGANOLOGY OF GRAND ANGKLUNG INSTRUMENT IN PADASUKA BANDUNG
Authors: Sella Sella Nurlela
Published: November 2024

The research method used is determine the organology of Grand Angklung musical instrument in Padasuka, Bandung. Organology which includes physical aspects, namely the basic materials of instruments, shapes, dimensions of construction, methods of manufacture and non-physical aspects, namely functions in music, history, and its distribution. The object of this research is the Grand Angklung musical instrument in Padasuka, Bandung. The research method used is descriptive qualitative research method. The results of this study describe 1) organology which includes physical aspects, (a) the basic materials of the instrument using bamboo and iron, (b) the shape of the long angklung grand instrument with a range of notes like a piano, (c) the size of the grand angklung construction has a length of approx. 3.30 meters with a height of 90 cm, (d) how to make it using electric welding to assemble the frame. 2) organology which includes non-physical aspects, (a) the function of music to accompany a song by having a wider range of tones than other instruments, (b) history before the creation of this instrument, namely the hanging angklung which had problems playing certain songs and the shape of the grand angklung is inspired by YouTube, (c) the spread of this instrument by performing external or internal performances and the studio where it is made is well known to foreign countries. Grand angklung is an innovation in creative angklung creations.
Sürdürülebilirlik, Elektronik Ağızdan Ağıza İletişim (eWOM) ve Ekonomik Motivasyonların Tüketicilerin İkinci El Ürün Satın Alma Niyetleri Üzerindeki Etkisi
Authors: Erdoğan Zeynep , Özoğlu Buket
Published: November 2024

Çevreyi koruyucu, minimalist yaşam tarzı benimseyen ve israftan kaçınma gibi davranışlarda bulunmaya başlayan tüketicilerin; kullandığı ürünleri değerlendirme, geri dönüştürme, ürünlerin ömrünü uzatma gibi çabaları sürdürülebilirlik anlayışına yönelik önemli adımlardır. Bu yaşam tarzı, çevrimiçi (online) ikinci el ürün satışının yapıldığı platformların büyümesine de katkı sağlamaktadır. Tüketicilerin bu tür platformlardan ürünler satın alması sürdürülebilirliğe katkı sağlamanın yanı sıra ikinci el ürünlerin ekonomik açıdan yeniden değerlendirmesini de sağlar. Ayrıca bu platformlarda yapılan yorum, görüş ve değerlendirmelerin tüketicilerin satın alma kararlarını etkilediği görülmektedir. Bütün bu unsurlar göz önüne alındığında bu çalışmanın amacı, tüketicilerin internette ikinci el ürün satın alımlarında sürdürülebilirlik, eWOM ve ekonomik motivasyonlarının satın alma tutum ve niyetine etkilerini ölçmektir. Aynı zamanda ekonomik motivasyonların sürdürülebilirlik üzerindeki etkisi, sürdürülebilirliğin eWOM üzerindeki etkisi, ekonomik motivasyonların da eWOM üzerindeki etkisi araştırılmaktadır. Araştırma verileri çalışmanın doğası gereği online anket yöntemiyle toplanmıştır. Katılımcıların örnekleme seçiminde ise kolayda örnekleme kullanılmıştır. Çalışmada 405 cevaplayıcıdan veri toplanmıştır. Araştırmanın sonuçlarına göre ekonomik motivasyonların sürdürülebilirliği ve eWOM’u etkilediği, sürdürülebilirliğin eWOM’u, internetten ikinci el ürünlerin satın alma tutum ve niyetlerini etkilediği tespit edilmiştir. Ayrıca eWOM’un da tutum üzerinde etkisinin olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır. Son olarak tüketicilerin internet üzerinden ikinci el ürü satın alma tutumlarının satın alma niyetlerini etkilediği tespit edilmiştir.
STRUKTURY OBYVATELSTVA JABLUNKOVA PODLE SČÍTÁNÍ Z ROKU 1900
Authors: Turoň Lukáš
Published: November 2024

The presented study is based on a detailed analysis of the population structure
of the town of Jablunkov, with a particular focus on the 1900 census data. It examines the
population according to home affiliation and place of birth, as well as the composition
of the population by age, sex and family status. It also considers the composition of the
population according to the language of daily use, religious belief and education, and the
distribution of the population according to economic activity and affiliation to the sector.
The economic and social structures were researched within the context of the potential
industrialisation process in this region at the turn of the 20th century. The analysis of the
population of the town of Jablunkov from the 1900 census confirms that there was no
industrial transformation in the region.
Kinematic and Geometric Features of High-Speed Machining of Complex Surfaces of Parts with Rotating Tools on CNC Machines
Authors: Popok N. N. , Anisimov V. S.
Published: November 2024

The purpose of the work is to increase the productivity of machining complex-profile surfaces of parts. To achieve this goal, the tasks of studying the kinematic and geometric features of the use of rotating cutting tools are solved, providing processing of cylindrical, conical, spherical and flat surfaces of a part at one workplace in one or two installations. Analytical research methods are used, which made it possible to obtain formulas for calculating the linear processing speed when the tool is embedded in the workpiece, in the cutting zone and at the tool exit from the workpiece, to determine changes in the inclination angle of the tool cutting edge in the instrumental, static and kinematic coordinate systems. Schemes for machining the surfaces of a part on a CNC machine by interpolating the cutting trajectory by rectilinear movements of the cutting edge are considered. The influence of the discreteness of the cutting edge movements on the quality of the resulting surface of the part at the recommended values of the cutting mode is estimated. The research results can be used in the development of control programs for CNC machines by selecting a rational machining scheme with tangential movement of the cutting edge and adjusting the values of linear velocity during embedding, during the cutting process and the exit of the cutting edge from the workpiece, which ensures an increase in machining productivity.
An early, novel arginine methylation of KCa3.1 attenuates subsequent T cell exhaustion.
Authors: Green Douglas , Sharma Piyush , Guo Ao , Poudel Suresh , Romero Emilio Boada , Verbist Katherine , Palacios Gustavo , Immadisetty Kalyan , Chen Mark , Haydar Dalia , Mishra Ashutosh , Peng Junmin , Babu M. Madan , Krenciute Giedre , Glazer Evan
Published: November 2024

T cell receptor (TCR) engagement initiates the activation process, and this signaling event is regulated in multifaceted ways. Nutrient availability in the immediate niche is one such mode of regulation. Here, we investigated how the availability of an essential amino acid methionine (Met) and TCR signaling might interplay in the earliest events of T cell activation to affect subsequent T cell fate and function. We found that limiting Met during only the initial 30 minutes of CD8+ T cell activation increased Ca2+ influx, Ca2+-mediated NFAT1 (Nfatc2) activation, NFAT1 promoter occupancy, and T cell exhaustion. We identified changes in the protein arginine methylome during the initial 30 min of TCR engagement and discovered a novel arginine methylation of a Ca2+-activated potassium transporter, KCa3.1, which regulates Ca2+-mediated NFAT1 signaling to ensure optimal activation. Ablation of arginine methylation in KCa3.1 led to increased NFAT1 activation, rendering T cells dysfunctional in murine tumour and infection models. Furthermore, acute Met supplementation at early stages reduced nuclear NFAT1 in tumour-infiltrating T cells and augmented their anti-tumour activity. Our findings identify a metabolic event occurring early after T cell activation that influences the subsequent fate of the cell.
On dwarf males in the deep-sea acorn barnacle Bathylasma hirsutum (Thoracica: Bathylasmatidae)
Authors: Neuhaus Jenny
Published: November 2024

The sessile lifestyle of thoracican barnacles has driven the evolution of a mating behavior that maximizes reproductive success by increasing the reach and number of potential mating partners. While most species are simultaneous hermaphrodites, possessing both male and female reproductive structures, some have evolved an androdioecious system in which hermaphrodites and dwarf males coexist. These dwarf males allocate more resources to male function than growth and typically settle near the orifice of their conspecifics. Environmental factors such as food availability and the number of potential mates influence mating group size in barnacle populations, which is generally lower in deep-sea habitats compared to nutrient-rich shallow-water environments. Evolution is likely to favor the presence of dwarf males in deep-sea barnacles to facilitate mating success in such challenging conditions. The genus Bathylasma Newman & Ross, 1971 currently comprises four extant species, two of which are known to exhibit an androdioecious sexual system. Bathylasma hirsutum (Hoek, 1883) is the sole representative of this genus at northern latitudes, inhabiting hard-bottom habitats down to 1829 meters depth. This study reports on two specimens from the Reykjanes Ridge axis, where minute individuals were found apically attached in the tergal furrow, hypothesized to function as dwarf males. This suggests B. hirsutum as the third species within the genus to exhibit an androdioecious sexual system. These findings offer new insights into the reproductive diversity and sex allocation strategies of deep-sea thoracican barnacles, for which a complete understanding has yet to be achieved.
Unveiling Government Strategies for Waste Reduction in Ouagadougou from development of a dynamic optimization framework based on python
Authors: ROJOSOA Hasiniaina , SIDIBE Sayon dit Sadio , SIDIBE Marie SAWADOGO , Francesco Di maria , Salifou Ouimenga Koucka
Published: November 2024

Urban solid waste has a significant impact on the environment and sustainable development, especially with legislative efforts focused on waste preservation to mitigate climate change. By integrating solid waste reduction and recovery systems into the integrated municipal waste management framework in Ouagadougou, numerous health, socio-economic, and environmental benefits can be realized. The objective of this study is to create a tool will focus on the life-cycle assessment of waste to energy, incorporating an analysis of the municipal waste boundary system to offer additional economic and environmental advantages. Ultimately, optimizing the dual objectives can yield accurate results in terms of minimal and maximum carbon footprint and variable cost, thereby aiding in the improvement of government strategies for urban waste reduction. In this paper, we present the methods and findings of developing a systematic optimization framework for the analysis of communal waste using mathematical modelling. This approach relies on calculations in the basic model and employs Python, the pyomo package, and CPLEX algorithms to solve the optimization problem. An environmental life-cycle analysis revealed an average minimum per capita carbon footprint of 252.8 kgCO2eq and an average maximum per capita carbon footprint of 74,455.2345 kgCO2eq. Additionally, in this work, there is an average minimum variable cost estimated 9.99 euros and an average maximum variable cost valued 892,448 euros. This research proposes further investigation into optimizing the selection of solid waste recovery projects and reducing the use of environmentally polluting technologies such as motorcycles.
Microsecond pulsed electric fields induce myocardial ablation by damaging mitochondria
Authors: Gao Qiqi , Zhang Mengjia , Chen Ruoshi , Teng Peng , Dai Xiaoyi , Wu Bin , Hong Liangjie , Ma Liang , Liu Lingshan , Wu Shengjun , li Mingqian
Published: November 2024

Background
Microsecond pulsed electric field (µsPEF) is a newer treatment modality to replace catheter ablation treatment of Atrial fibrillation (AF) due to its fewer side effects. This study aims to find out the optimal experimental parameters and the precise mechanisms for microsecond pulsed electric fields (µsPEFs) ablation of cardiomyocytes.
Methods
CCK8 and flow apoptosis analysis were employed to examine the effects of different µsPEFs on cardiomyocytes in vitro. The mechanisms by which the µsPEFs ablation works were explored through a combination of transcriptome study, transmission electron microscope (TEM) observation of mitochondria, pathway enrichment analysis, and interaction network analysis. In vivo experiments on mice involving HE, Masson, TUNEL and Immunofluorescence staining examinations were conducted to confirm the in vitro experimental results.
Results
When more than 30 pulses were applied, a continuous decline in post-ablation relative cell activity was observed, decreasing from 0.36 at 3 hours to 0.13 (p < 0.01) at 48 hours. Notably, at a voltage of 1500 V/cm and a pulse count of 50, the apoptosis rate exceeded 95%, coupled with a more stable and consistent cell ablation. The optimal parameters for µsPEFs-mediated cardiomyocytes ablation in vitro were around 1500 V/cm, 50 pulses and 100 µs in duration. Following ablation, a notable upregulation in mitochondria-related transcription levels was observed, accompanied by mitochondrial membrane disruption and an increase in Cytochrome C levels.
Conclusions
Within a certain range, an increase in voltage and number of electric pulses corresponded to a greater quantity of cell mortality in the ablation zone. The µsPEFs induced cell injury by impairing mitochondrial function and potentially triggering the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway.
Exploring Prospects of Cotton Cultivation under Rainfed Conditions of Pothwar
Authors: Khan Haider Hayat , Mujtaba Ghulam , Khan Nasir Mehmood , Khan Nanak , Kashif Muhammad , Ashraf Hafiz Muhammad Aftab , Khan Muhammad Amaid
Published: November 2024

Cotton production has been drastically affected by the climate change through its effect on agronomic practices such as sowing time and adoption of genotypes to various agro-ecological conditions. Interaction of genotypes and sowing date is an important strategy to analyze cotton yield and quality in a rainfed environment. Various morphological, and yield parameters including plant height, boll weight, crop growth rate, lint yield, seed cotton yield, ginning out turn (GOT), fiber fineness, fiber length and fiber strength was recorded. Results of the study revealed that N-878 performed best on an average during all the growing seasons followed by IUB-2013, SS-32 and BS-15 respectively. The best yield and quality were achieved when the cotton cultivars were sown on 22nd April followed by 8th April and 6th June respectively. This study will be helpful to look into performance of genotypes and possibilities of cotton cultivation under rainfed conditions of Pothwar. Also, sowing window of studied cotton genotypes will be explored for cotton cultivation under rainfed conditions of Pothwar. In addition, the present piece of work will provide future direction for research on cotton in the Pothwar region.
Gut microbiota dysbiosis promotes coronary heart disease comorbid with depression through lipopolysaccharides and TLR4 receptors
Authors: Pan Yangyu , Luo Yanna , Wu Ge , Lu Yaxi , Yang Ping , Kong Pengyun , Zheng Chuncheng , Wang Chengxiang , Yang Liqiang , Li Xiaohong
Published: November 2024

Background: Coronary heart disease (CHD) and depression often coexist, complicating patient care due to their intertwined pathophysiology. Gut microbiota plays a crucial role in overall health and is involved in both conditions. Dysbiosis, especially increased levels of lipopolysaccharides (LPS), can activate the TLR4 receptor, triggering inflammatory pathways linked to CHD and depression. Although some associations have been observed, the direct mechanistic link between gut dysbiosis, LPS, TLR4 activation, and the comorbidity of CHD with depression remains unclear. This study aims to explore this relationship and the potential of gut microbiota modulation as a therapeutic strategy.
Methods: A rat model of CHD and depression was established using a high-fat diet and chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS), verified by electrocardiogram (ECG), behavioral assessments, and cardiac markers. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was performed, transferring microbiota from diseased rats to healthy rats (FMT-Disease group), compared to an FMT-Normal group. To explore inflammatory pathways, the TLR4 inhibitor TAK-242 was administered, creating Disease+TAK-242 and FMT-Disease-TAK-242 groups. Blood LPS levels, TLR4/MYD88/NF-κB marker expression in cardiac and hippocampal tissues, and health indicators were evaluated using 16S rRNA sequencing, ELISA, RT-qPCR, and Western blot.
Results: Diseased rats showed significantly reduced gut microbiota α- and β-diversity, indicating dysbiosis. FMT from diseased rats increased LPS levels, activated the TLR4/MYD88/NF-κB pathway, and heightened susceptibility to CHD and depression in healthy rats. TAK-242 lowered LPS levels and reduced inflammatory markers, confirming the role of the TLR4 pathway in disease progression. The Disease+Normal FMT group demonstrated improved gut microbiota composition, reduced myocardial damage, and alleviated depressive behaviors, highlighting the therapeutic potential of healthy microbiota transplantation.
Conclusion: This study establishes a link between gut dysbiosis and the comorbidity of CHD with depression. Dysbiosis, marked by elevated LPS, activates the TLR4/MYD88/NF-κB pathway, increasing susceptibility to both conditions. FMT from healthy rats alleviated symptoms, suggesting that gut microbiota modulation could be a promising therapeutic strategy for these comorbidities.
Regulation of Autologous Stem Cell Therapies: Report on Canadian Unsanctioned Businesses
Authors: Ni Anjie , Joly Yann
Published: November 2024

Advances in the field of regenerative medicine have allowed for the rapid development of stem cell-based therapies in the hope of treating numerous debilitating diseases. Most of these therapies are not fully ready to be administered to patients, but hundreds of businesses around the world exploit the excitement around stem cells’ therapeutic potential to sell unproven stem cell products to the general public. In 2019, Health Canada issued a Policy position paper on autologous cell therapy products, classifying stem cell-based therapies as drugs under the Food and Drug Regulations. However, five years later, there still remain several predatory autologous stem cell businesses offering services in Canada. The health of Canadians is put at risk with unproven therapies that can create extremely serious adverse effects for patients. A thorough review of the autologous stem cell businesses currently in activity in Canada can provide patient advocates, health professionals, scientists, and policymakers at the federal and provincial level the evidence needed for coordinated action. This communication will present the results of a comprehensive study where we assessed the effects of Health Canada’s 2019 legal revision by examining potential changes for 30 Canadian businesses identified by Turner (2018) and by identifying new businesses operating similarly. Our findings indicate that legal enforcement has been insufficient to curb businesses’ marketing of unproven stem cell therapies and reveal an alarmingly vast marketplace for platelet-rich plasma, another type of unproven regenerative medicine-based therapy, in Canada. The findings of this study are crucial to identifying proactive measures to ensure that the law and its enforcement respond more effectively to the existing threat level represented by faulty regenerative medicine-based therapies.
Multi-Modal Deep Learning Architecture for Improved Colposcopy Image Classification
Authors: Chatterjee Priyadarshini , Siddiqui Shadab
Published: November 2024

Colposcopy image classification is vital for early cervical cancer detection, yet it remains challenging due to the significant variation in lesion appearances. Although deep learning models have advanced medical image classification, few studies have explored combining different model architectures to enhance diagnostic accuracy in colposcopy. This study addresses this gap by proposing a lesion-specific, multi-branch architecture that integrates attention mechanisms, deep feature extraction, and ensemble learning. Multi-task learning is employed to manage multiple lesion-specific classification tasks, while an ensemble of classifiers—Logistic Regression, XGBoost, and CatBoost—enhances decision-making accuracy. The architecture includes deep learning branches using EfficientNetB0 and MobileNetV2 for rich feature extraction from colposcopy images, with their outputs combined through a soft voting ensemble. Hyperparameter tuning, k-fold cross-validation, PCA visualization, and AUC plots for multiclass performance were used to optimize and assess model effectiveness. Training and validation accuracy were tracked in two phases: after the training phase, training accuracy reached 97.85% and validation accuracy was 97.33%; after the final ensemble classification, training accuracy improved to 99.95% and validation accuracy to 99.85%, surpassing individual model performance and demonstrating enhanced generalization. This model shows substantial promise for improving colposcopy classification accuracy, providing a valuable tool for clinical decision support in cervical cancer diagnosis.
Enhancing COVID-19 Forecasts Through Multivariate Deep Learning Models
Authors: Oh Jooha , Liu Zhe , Han Kyulhee , Goo Taewan , Song Hanbyul , Park Jiwon , Park Taesung
Published: November 2024

Background
It is well known that deep learning (DL) models often struggle with low prediction performance due to data scarcity. This scarcity hampers the effectiveness of DL methods that typically require large datasets to generate reliable forecasts. Recently, several DL models have been proposed for predicting the spread of COVID-19. These models are country specific models and thus use the COVID-19 data only from the target country. To improve COVID-19 forecasting using DL models, we propose multivariate DL models using the additional data available from other countries.
Methods
Based on the rankings determined by Dynamic Time Warping (DTW) distance, which calculates the similarity of infection trends across countries, univariate DL models using only the target country data were extended to multivariate models which integrated data from the top-ranked countries to optimize performance. We considered seven DL models including the Transformer model, TCN, CNN-LSTM, BiLSTM, GRU, RNN, and LSTM.
Results
Our results showed that the multivariate transformer model achieved the most significant improvements in forecasting accuracy, with an average reduction of 60.15% in mean root mean square error (RMSE) across the five target countries and five time periods when integrating data from additional countries, compared to univariate models using only the target country data. Additionally, multivariate transformer models consistently demonstrated significant improvements over univariate models in terms of mean RMSE, as evidenced by the Diebold-Mariano test. Other multivariate DL models also showed performance gains, with the TCN model achieving an average reduction in RMSE of 36.28%, followed by CNN-LSTM at 29.47%, BiLSTM at 21.07%, GRU at 21.43%, RNN at 17.46%, and LSTM at 16.38%.
Conclusions
These findings indicate that leveraging similar infection patterns from data of other countries can provide valuable information for predicting the COVID-19 spread in the target country, especially when data is scarce, thereby enhancing forecasting performance.
Assessing acrimony and coparenting in dissolved relationships: validation of the BACS-8 and the MCS-DR in a Spanish sample
Authors: Ordóñez-Carabaño Ángela , Martínez-Díaz Pilar , Caperos José Manuel , Charro-Baena Belén
Published: November 2024

Background: The aim of this study was to validate two instruments, the Brief Acrimony Scale-8 (BACS-8) and the Multidimensional Co-Parenting Scale for Dissolved Relationships (MCS-DR), in a Spanish sample of divorced parents. These instruments were designed to assess acrimony and coparenting dynamics, including overt and covert conflict, in postdivorce relationships.
Methods: The sample consisted of 237 divorced parents (142 women, 95 men), with an average age of 49.1 years. The participants completed the BACS-8, the MCS-DR, the CARE questionnaire and other validation criteria. To assess the internal structure of the scales, confirmatory factor analyses (CFAs) were performed. To evaluate convergent and discriminant validity, Pearson correlations were employed.
Results: The CFA results indicated that the model fit was adequate to good for both the BACS-8 and the MCS-DR. A strong correlation was identified between acrimony and coparenting conflict, particularly overt conflict. Furthermore, a significant relationship was observed between covert conflict and acrimony, although to a lesser extent. The provision of coparenting support was found to be negatively associated with the occurrence of acrimony and conflict and positively related to the quality of postdivorce relationships.
Conclusions: The BACS-8 and MCS-DR are reliable and valid instruments for the assessment of acrimony and coparenting dynamics in Spanish divorced families.
This study emphasises the pivotal role of overt and covert conflict in the development of postdivorce coparenting relationships. Furthermore, this highlights the necessity for targeted interventions aimed at reducing conflict and enhancing coparenting support.
Impact of tree density in silvopastoral systems on thermal environment and productivity of beef cattle grazing native grasslands during summer
Authors: Llanos Pablo N. , Gonzalez C. M. , Fedrigo Jean K. , Benitez Valentina , Viñoles Carolina
Published: November 2024

Silvopastoral systems (SPS) can create a more comfortable thermal environment and improve animal productivity, an effect that is probably related to tree density. To study the impact of tree density on the productivity of beef cows grazing native grasslands during the summer, 29 cows (Brangus and their crossbreeds with British breeds) and their calves were randomly assigned to 3 treatments: 1) Full sun (0 trees/ha), 2) Low density (160 trees/ha), 3) High density (240 trees/ha), replicated in 3 blocks (9 plots). Grazing intensity was managed through sward height at 7–10 cm in all treatments. During the hottest hours of the day, BGTHI was lower under the trees in both SPS (86 ± 0.4) compared to the alley (88 ± 0.4) and full sun (88 ± 0.4), but lowest in the alley of high (75 ± 1.4) than low (84 ± 1.4) tree density SPS at 10:00 (P < 0.05). Photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) transmission was lower under the trees (86%) than in the alley of the high tree density (96%) and full sun (100%; P < 0.05). However, forage allowance (4–5 kgDM/kg live weight), its chemical composition (crude protein: 7–8%; neutral detergent fibre: 65–66%; acid detergent fibre: 34–35%) and cow productivity (35–127 kg calf weaned/cow mated) were similar between treatments (P > 0.05). We conclude that cows grazing native grasslands with 0, 160 and 240 trees/ha, two years after planting, had similar productivity, associated to mild changes in thermal comfort and PAR transmission, that had no effect of the quality and quality of forage offered to the animals.
Bronze Age frontiers and pottery circulation. Political and economic relations at the northern fringes of El Argar, Southeast Iberia, ca. 2200-1550 BCE
Authors: Gil Adrià Moreno , García Carla Garrido , Soriano Bárbara Bonora , Gómez-Gras David , Risch Roberto
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the nature and dynamics of economic and political borders emerging in Later Prehistory between highly centralised and exploitative societies and their much more dispersed and small scale neighbours. While increasing evidence indicates that Early Bronze Age entities such as El Argar, Únětice, or Minoan Crete reached highly complex economic and political forms around 1850–1750 BCE, the processes by which their relations and borders with adjacent, less hierarchical groups were established and maintained still remain poorly understood. To identify such economic and political borders and asymmetric interactions in archaeology a specific methodological approach was developed which combined extensive field survey, pottery petrography, and spatial modelling of pottery production and circulation areas. We focused on the middle and upper Segura river valley, where, according to previous research, the border of one of the most complex entities of Bronze Age Europe, El Argar, was expected to have evolved between c. 2000 − 1550 BCE. Still today, this region is an archaeologically largely unexplored borderland region between markedly different geographic units of the Iberian peninsula. While El Argar expanded over semi arid Southeast, archaeological research in La Mancha and the Spanish Levant, adjacent to the middle and upper Segura river valley, has identified much smaller scale socio-economic entities, known, respectively, as La Mancha or Las Motillas and the Valencian Bronze Age cultures. At the junction between these three entities, over 4800 km² including 61 settlements were surveyed and their pottery sampled. This allowed to carry out the largest petrographic analysis of Bronze Pottery in the Iberian Bronze Age, including 1643 pottery sherds. Spatial modelling of the petrographic results was developed to trace the production and circulation of pottery and raw materials, offering insights into economic exchanges, social boundaries, and the long-term articulation of borderland spaces. By identifying distinct pottery-making practices and mapping their distribution, we reveal the nature of interactions between El Argar’s core regions and its neighbouring La Mancha and Valencian Bronze Age communities. This study serves to highlight the potential of ceramic production and circulation as indicators of border dynamics. Similar studies in other regions are expected to lead to a better understanding of how borders shaped Bronze Age societies and contributed to broader patterns of regional organisation and inter-group relations.
Understanding Host-Pathogen Interaction: Malassezia spp. infecting keratinocytes in a lipid-rich media
Authors: Rios-Navarro Andrea , Mora-Restrepo Felipe , Gonzalez John M. , Santos-Barbosa Juan Carlos , Cristancho Natalia Inés Bolaños , Ramirez Adriana Marcela Celis
Published: November 2024

The epidermis is the first protective barrier against pathogenic agents. It hosts a complex of beneficial microorganisms for the skin, such as lipid-dependent yeasts of the Malassezia genus. In the epidermis, this yeast interacts with keratinocytes while follicles that contain the sebaceous glands with a variety of lipids such as squalene, triglycerides, free fatty acids, and others, turning the skin into a suitable place for these yeasts to establish their ecological niche. Little is known about the mechanisms by which Malassezia overcomes the skin natural barrier. This study assessed the addition of representative cutaneous fatty acids (stearic acid, oleic acid, and squalene) during the infection of Malassezia globosa, M. restricta, M. furfur, and M. sympodialis with the Human Epidermal Keratinocytes, adult (HEKa) cell line. Keratinocytes were infected with Malassezia spp., and parameters associated with the infection, such as cell viability, cytotoxicity, invasiveness, and immune response, were evaluated. Gene expression related to virulence was analyzed by real-time PCR. Adding fatty acids changes the infection process, decreases cell viability, and causes a cytotoxic effect on keratinocytes. M. furfur and M. sympodialis, showed a negative impact against keratinocytes and is increased by the presence of fatty acids. Malassezia spp. express genes related to pathogenesis-like lipases, allergens, and peptidases to interact with skin cells. Moreover, Malassezia spp. promote the secretion of inflammatory cytokines by keratinocytes, such as IL-8, IL-18, and IL-33, when infecting in a lipid-supplemented media.
Revolutionizing MRI-Based Brain Tumor Classification with BrainMRI-NetX for Superior Accuracy and Reliability
Authors: Arora Sonia , Mishra Gouri Sankar
Published: November 2024

This study aims to enhance and ensure reliable MRI-based brain tumor classification through the development of an innovative BrainMRI-NetX model, incorporating advanced techniques such as Depthwise Separable Convolutions, Residual Blocks, Squeeze-and-Excite Blocks, and Self-Attention Layers. For feature extraction, we utilized a hybrid VGG19 and LSTM model. Our primary goal is to develop and evaluate a CNN model that outperforms state-of-the-art models in terms of F-score, recall, accuracy, and precision.The proposed BrainMRI-NetX model was trained using cutting-edge optimization techniques on a large dataset of FigShare MRI brain images, significantly enhancing its performance. We thoroughly evaluated the model's critical performance indicators: F-score, recall, accuracy, and precision. When benchmarked against popular models such as ResNet-152, DenseNet121, and VGG16, our proposed model demonstrated superior performance, achieving an F-score of 0.96, and recall, accuracy, and precision all at 0.99. In comparison, DenseNet121 showed an accuracy of 0.85, precision of 0.89, recall of 0.90, and F-score of 0.88. ResNet-152 and VGG16 exhibited lower performance metrics, with accuracy at 0.86, precision at 0.85, recall at 0.84, and F-score at 0.87. The exceptional performance of our proposed BrainMRI-NetX model highlights its potential for advancing medical diagnostics, particularly in MRI-based brain tumor classification.
Bridging the Energy Divide: The Impact of Digital Inclusive Finance on Urban-Rural Electricity Consumption Inequality
Authors: Zhang Lei , Ji Hongkang
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we investigate the impact of digital inclusive finance on the inequality in electricity consumption between urban and rural residents in China. Using provincial panel data from 2011 to 2021, we employ a two-way fixed effects model to assess the effects of digital inclusive finance on urban-rural electricity consumption inequality. The findings unveil that digital inclusive finance significantly reduces electricity consumption inequality, particularly in less developed central and western regions. Our mediation analysis demonstrates that digital inclusive finance mitigates electricity consumption inequality through two main channels: reducing income inequality between urban and rural residents and enhancing the supply of renewable energy. As revealed in the threshold effect analysis, financial regulation intensity plays the moderating role. To be specific, although positive impact of digital inclusive finance is propelled by moderate regulation, its benefits could be decreased due to excessive regulation. In short, this study has not only validated the function of digital inclusive finance in tackling with energy inequality, but also provided policy insights to balance financial innovation and regulation.
Affective Space and Motor Response: The Impact of Proprioceptive/Tactile Cues on Movement Organization
Authors: LACHAUD L. , VERNAZZA-MARTIN S.
Published: November 2024

The present study investigates whether action organization is enhanced when the affectively marked space corresponding to the affective outcome of a response is primarily perceived through vision (Rv-E hypothesis) or proprioception (Rp-E hypothesis). Sixty-four right-handed participants were seated in front of a vertical computer screen and were required to perform pointing movements on a graphic tablet. This tablet was positioned horizontally or vertically, and participants used a stylus to trigger the appearance of a positive or negative visual outcome. The tablet was concealed under a device that completely hid the tablet, stylus, and participants' forearms. The results reveal three critical characteristics of motor response coding. First, coding highly depends on the affectively marked space where the movement occurs. Second, this affective coding is primarily based on predictions from proprioceptive and tactile information, which guide the movement's direction. Third, the coding of affective space must align with the affective coding of the response to ensure effective movement organization. This study provides new insights into the affective coding of motor responses by analyzing movement's temporal and spatial aspects through kinematic analysis.
Assessment of Sigmoidal Artery and Vein Diameters as Predictive Markers for Complications in Acute Sigmoid Diverticulitis: A Retrospective Observational Analysis
Authors: SEZİKLİ İsmail , FİDAN Nurdan , TOPCU Ramazan , TURHAN Veysel Barış , ASLAN Orhan , KENDİRCİ Murat
Published: November 2024

Background
Acute sigmoid diverticulitis is a common inflammatory condition that can progress to severe complications such as abscess formation, fistulas, and perforation. While computed tomography (CT) is the gold standard for diagnosis, it offers limited prognostic information. Emerging evidence suggests that vascular changes in the sigmoidal arteries and veins may correlate with disease severity and serve as predictive markers for complications.
Material/Methods
This retrospective study analyzed 160 patients with confirmed acute sigmoid diverticulitis between May 2018 and May 2023. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence of complications using the modified Hinchey classification: Group 1 (uncomplicated diverticulitis) and Group 2 (complicated diverticulitis). Vascular diameters were measured using contrast-enhanced CT scans, focusing on the sigmoidal arteries and veins. The study assessed the relationship between vascular diameters and disease severity using multivariate logistic regression, with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to determine diagnostic cut-off values.
Results
Patients with complicated diverticulitis exhibited significantly larger sigmoidal artery and vein diameters compared to those with uncomplicated disease (p < 0.001). The optimal cut-off values for predicting complications were 3.15 mm for the sigmoidal artery and 3.85 mm for the sigmoidal vein, with sensitivities of 78% and 82%, and specificities of 76% and 81%, respectively. Multivariate analysis confirmed that increased vascular diameters and elevated neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were independent predictors of complicated diverticulitis (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
Vascular measurements of the sigmoidal arteries and veins, along with inflammatory markers, can enhance the prediction of complications in acute sigmoid diverticulitis. These measurements may serve as valuable tools for guiding treatment decisions, potentially improving patient outcomes through early identification of high-risk cases.
Evaluation of antibiofilm and antimicrobial property of Cymbopogon citratus leaves extract fraction against Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm: in-vitro and Insilco approach
Authors: Singh Reema , Maurya Sarita , Tyagi Shivani , Minhas Ujla , Katara Pramod , Yadav Awadh Bihari
Published: November 2024

The aim of our work was to evaluated to the potential of different fractions of plant extract from C. citratus to impedance the S. aureus biofilm. The plant extract of C. citratus was obtained by Soxhlet apparatus and concentrated by rotary evaporator, here we identified the phytochemical bioactive compound by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and the antibiofilm activity of different fractions of the extract was analysed by measuring biofilm disruption and inhibition. The characterization of potential phytochemicals bioactive compound present in the extract was done using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy. Molecular docking study was performed with different bacterial components involve in the biofilm formation by interaction study between ligand and receptor binding of phytochemical substances. Different phytochemicals present into extract were quantified, showed that the highest total phenolic content is present in the aqueous extract (81.1 ± 0.0007 mg GAE/gm), while the highest total flavonoid content is present in the methanol extract (529 ± 7.0 mg QE/gm) and the highest total flavonoid content was present in the aqueous extract (74.6 ± 4.1 mg TAE/gm). The FT-IR spectra revealed various characteristic band functional groups such as amines, alcohol, fluoro compounds, phenol, alkane, alkene, and conjugated acid groups, conjugate aldehyde, Carboxylic acid was present in the extract. Bioactive compounds identified by GC-MS nearly 90 compounds were identified and 9 major potential phytochemical compounds were present in abundant in abundant in the extract. This study demonstrated that the phytochemicals present into the different extract possess antibiofilm activity by targeting different biofilm components.
Improvement of Gastrointestinal and Thyroid Biomarkers with Advanced Diagnostic Techniques and Functional Nutrition Approach in a 40-Year-Old Female: A Case Report
Authors: Shahani Prerna , Joseph Anitta , Pradan Mugdha
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Functional nutrition is a holistic approach in which diseases are treated based on a root cause analysis and advanced diagnostics followed by personalised dietary interventions, supplements, physical exercise, stress management and environmental modifications. This case report discusses functional nutrition approach that involves root cause analysis and advanced diagnostic tests such as gastrointestinal microbial array tests (GIMAP) and pathogen associated immune reactivity screen (Array 12) for management of gastrointestinal as well as thyroid dysfunctions in a 40 year old female. Case presentation: Root cause analysis of a 40-year-old female is presented with GI symptoms, chronic fatigue; sleep issues & hives revealed inflammation, infection, dysbiosis, and thyroid disorders. The comprehensive approach included an initial three-month protocol, followed by maintenance and thyroid protocol that lasted a total of fifteen months. Interventions included elimination diets, nutraceuticals such as zinc and vitamin D and lifestyle modifications such as exercise. Post protocol, the patient had lost 10 kg with improvements in GI symptoms, better energy levels, relief from skin problems, and sound sleep. Discussion: Resolving the underlying infection and inflammation with a personalized diet and essential nutraceuticals led to improved gut health, sleep patterns, energy levels and body weight. Advanced diagnostics combined with functional nutrition principles can potentially lead to successful management of various systemic disorders.
Sport im Jahr 2050: E-Sport! Oder: Ist E-Sport Sport?
Authors: Müller-Lietzkow Jörg
Published: November 2024

Die nachfolgende Untersuchung stellt sich die Frage, wie zukünftig das wettkampfmäßige Spielen von interaktiven digitalen Unterhaltungsprogrammen, also Computer- und Videospielen, in den Kanon von Medienaktivitäten einzuordnen ist. Vieles spricht dafür, von einem neuen Sport, dem E-Sport, auszugehen. Um allerdings ein Gleichheitszeichen zwischen E-Sport und Sport zu setzen, bedarf es einer entsprechenden Analyse des Ist-Standes. Anhand einer empirischen Erhebung (n = 195) sowie einer über sieben Vergleichsebenen angelegten Analyse wird eine definitorische Einordnung von E-Sport vorgenommen. Die Quintessenz an dieser Stelle ist, dass es sich bei E-Sport eindeutig um eine moderne Form von Sport handelt, die 2050, ebenso wie heute Fußball oder Tennis, ganz normal sein dürfte.
„Mittendrin statt nur dabei“
Authors: Schwier Jürgen , Schauerte Thorsten
Published: November 2024

Die Medien haben maßgeblich zur Transformation des modernen Sports beigetragen, für den inzwischen das wirkungsvolle Zur-Geltung-Kommen im Fernsehen von erheblicher Bedeutung ist. In diesem Zusammenhang werden die Inszenierungsmuster des Sports und des Fernsehsports sowie die Anpassungen des Sports an mediale Bedingungen rekonstruiert. Ein zweiter Argumentationsschritt beschäftigt sich mit den durch das Fernsehen selbst geschaffenen Sportspektakeln.