bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing intervention fidelity strategies for a behaviour change intervention delivered in primary care dental practices: the RETURN fidelity strategy
Authors: Lowers Victoria , Young B. , Harris R. V.
Published: February 2025

Background

Behaviour change interventions delivered in real-world settings could be vulnerable to threats to internal and external validity if methodological considerations are overlooked. The primary dental care setting is a difficult environment within which to deliver research protocols presenting unique challenges for robust scientific research delivery. Intervention fidelity strategies are an important mechanism to improve the scientific rigor of such studies. Feasibility studies provide a vital opportunity to refine and optimise research processes and implementation strategies before embarking on larger scale projects. This paper sets out the development of a comprehensive intervention fidelity strategy guided by The National Institutes of Health Behavior Change Consortium.(BCC) recommendations.

Method

Using observations (53 h) and qualitative interviews (17 patient interviews and 2 staff interviews) conducted during the delivery of the RETURN feasibility study (InteRventions to rEduce inequaliTies in the Uptake of Routine deNtal care), an intervention fidelity strategy was developed for use in the RETURN main trial.

Results

A comprehensive intervention fidelity strategy was developed, structured around the five domains of the BCC’s recommendations (design, training, delivery, receipt, enactment) and attending to the goals pertaining to each of those domains. This paper sets out the fidelity strategy implemented in the RETURN main trial.

Implications and conclusions

The RETURN fidelity strategy was influenced by the unique research environment the primary dental care setting presents. The strategy could serve as a blueprint to other researchers conducting research in similar settings. It is also intended that this strategy is read alongside the RETURN results upon their publication.

Trial registration

ISRCTN10853330, registered: 07/10/2019.
Virtual reality cricothyrotomy – a tool in medical emergency education throughout various disciplines
Authors: Burkhardt Valentin , Vallette Marianne , Speck Iva , Flayyih Omar , Huber Christine , Widder Angela , Wunderlich Robert , Everad Friederike , Offergeld Christian , Albrecht Tobias
Published: February 2025

Objectives

A cricothyrotomy represents an emergency procedure that may be considered a last option for securing the airway. While fortunately rare, it is important to note that such invasive procedures must be mastered if they are to be used. Therefore, regular training is essential to gain routine. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether professional groups with different levels of experience with the procedure succeed in learning the procedure with a virtual reality trainer.

Materials and methods

In a multicenter approach, 146 employees with four different professional backgrounds—otorhinolaryngologists, anesthesiologists, emergency physicians and certified nurses—were included in the study. The participants were required to complete a virtual reality (VR) cricothyrotomy scenario in three consecutive runs, and the time required and errors in the procedure were recorded. The training experience was subsequently evaluated subjectively using a questionnaire.

Results

The study included 146 participants with an average age of 33 years and an average of 5 years of professional experience. The majority of participants (74%) reported an improvement in the speed of the procedure and in the procedural steps (87%). These subjective improvements were confirmed objectively by the time required for completion of the procedure and the points achieved. Gaming experience had a significant effect on both the score (p = 0.023) and procedure time (p = 0.039), whereas age and medical specialization did not. Real-life experience with cricothyrotomy had no significant effect on performance in VR.

Conclusion

Virtual reality provides an effective method for training healthcare professionals in cricothyrotomy, regardless of their specialty or prior experience. The participants showed significant improvements in both the speed and accuracy of the procedure after training, regardless of their prior experience or medical background. Further research is necessary to assess the benefits of VR simulation for training cricothyrotomy in real-world procedures.

Trial registration

DRKS00031736, registered on the 20th of April 2023.
Competency-based education and training for Community Health Workers: a scoping review
Authors: Sultan Marium A. , Miller Emily , Tikkanen Roosa Sofia , Singh Shalini , Kullu Arpana , Cometto Giorgio , Fitzpatrick Siobhan , Ajuebor Onyema , Gillon Nicholas , Edward Anbrasi , Moleman Youri P. , Pandya Shivani , Park Inyeong , Shen Jung Yu , Yu Yefei , Perry Henry , Scott Kerry , Closser Svea
Published: February 2025

Background

Community Health Workers (CHWs) play a critical role in supporting the delivery of health services globally. Competency-based learning programs can improve the transfer of learning to practice. This scoping review aims to characterize the published literature on competency-based education as an instructional and curricular strategy in community health worker training programs. We conducted a scoping review of the literature to identify how, by who, and in what ways CHWs are trained using competency-based education; and to characterize the extent of available evidence, as well as the gaps in that evidence.

Methods

We conducted a review of the peer-reviewed literature on CHW competency-based education and training published between January 2010 to March 2023, drawing from four databases: EMBASE, OVID Medline, Web of Science, and CINAHL. We followed the PRISMA guidelines for scoping reviews. A total of 713 articles were reviewed and 236 were included for extraction based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Due to methodological heterogeneity, results were analyzed and synthesized only through a descriptive approach.

Results

The literature on competency-based CHW education and training is most voluminous in high income contexts, primarily the USA. Overall, the included studies described very small-scale training interventions. Study types included observational (qualitative, quantitative, mixed methods, case studies) intervention or experimental studies, systematic or scoping reviews, and literature reviews. The most common practice area included was ‘promotive and preventive services’, whereas ‘personal safety’ was the rarest.

Learning programs tailored to CHWs with low-literacy, content tailored to local cultural contexts, and curricula that were co-designed with CHWs were identified in the literature as effective strategies for converting learning to practice.

Information on institutional support for CHWs was not provided in most of the articles reviewed. While the focus of our review was on education and training and not broader supports for CHWs, we still found it notable that training was usually discussed in isolation from other related supportive factors, including professionalization and career progression.

Conclusions

We found considerable academic interest in utilizing competency-based education to support CHWs and improve their work, yet this exploration was largely limited to smaller, ad hoc programs, in high income settings.

Learning programs should be tailored to the realities and practice requirements of CHWs. Further work should illuminate the extent to which the design and delivery of education and training activities lead to acquiring and maintaining the requisite competencies.
Sex differences of neutrophil to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio in predicting the severity of coronary lesions in acute coronary syndrome patients
Authors: Wang Chuntian , Shang Kun , Cao Lina , Kuang Jiangying , Ning Xiang , Chen Huiqiang
Published: February 2025

Background

The neutrophil-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (NHR) is closely related to the occurrence and severeness of coronary stenosis in subjects with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Men have higher NHR levels than women. The study was designed to examine the usefulness of NHR for predicting severe coronary stenosis in male and female ACS subjects.

Methods

We enrolled 165 ACS patients (105 males and 60 females) who underwent coronary angiography. Clinical parameters; fasting glucose, creatinine, and uric acid levels; lipid profiles; and routine blood indices were measured. The NHR was computed by dividing the neutrophil numbers by the concentration of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Coronary stenosis severity was assessed using the Gensini score (GS). A GS˃41 points was regarded as a high GS.

Results

The NHR was clearly greater in male ACS individuals than in their female counterparts (P = 0.001). The NHR was positively linked to the GS (r = 0.330, P = 0.001) in men, whereas there was no association between NHR and the GS in women (r=-0.0.032, P = 0.805). Univariate logistic regression analyses indicated that the NHR predicted a high GS in male ACS patients but not in their female counterparts. Multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated that a high NHR was an independent marker of severe coronary lesions in men (P = 0.001) but not in women (P = 0.274). The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the NHR for the prediction of severe atherosclerosis were 0.681 (P = 0.001) and 0.560 (P = 0.431) in male and female subjects, respectively. An NHR value > 3.99 had a specificity and a sensitivity of 68% and 64%, respectively, for forecasting severe atherosclerosis in male subjects.

Conclusions

The NHR could be utilised to independently predict the severeness of coronary lesions in male ACS subjects but not in their female counterparts. Therefore, the NHR should be used with caution when screening female ACS patients for severe coronary restrictions.
Development of updated population norms for the SF-36 for Hungary and comparison with 1997–1998 norms
Authors: Bató Alex , Brodszky Valentin , Rencz Fanni
Published: February 2025

Background

Hungarian SF-36 population norm data were last collected in 1997–1998 and have not been updated since, reducing their relevance and limiting their usability and comparability. This study aimed to establish contemporary normative data for the SF-36 domain and standardised summary scores in Hungary and compare them to the previous population norms.

Methods

An online cross-sectional survey, including the SF-36v1, was conducted among 1,700 members of the Hungarian adult general population in 2020. The sample demonstrated good representativeness across key sociodemographic characteristics. Normative data were calculated for domains using raw scores and for summary scores using country-specific factor score coefficients derived from exploratory factor analysis. Multivariate linear regression models were performed to examine the association of domain and summary scores with sociodemographic and health-related characteristics. Raw domain scores were compared with the 1997–1998 norms.

Results

Males reported higher scores (better health) in seven out of eight domains (p < 0.001). Mean standardised PCS scores decreased, whereas MCS scores increased with age (p < 0.001). Compared to the 1997–1998 population norms, the 18–24 and 25–34 age groups reported lower, while the 65 + age group reported higher scores in all eight domains. Higher scores were reported in 2020 from the 35–44 age group onward on the role physical, bodily pain, social functioning, and role emotional domains.

Conclusions

This study established contemporary population norms for the SF-36 in Hungary. Our results highlight the changes in health status in the general population, particularly in young adults, compared to the 1997–1998 population norms, and provide valuable input to inform decision-makers.
Bone disease and oromaxillofacial disorders: a cross- sectional study in a Tanzanian pediatric population
Authors: Mashala Elias Isaack , Brunet-Llobet Lluís , Lapitskaya Anastasiya , Balsells-Mejía Sol , Mrina Ombeni , Miranda-Rius Jaume
Published: February 2025

Background

Certain bone diseases of congenital origin are associated with dental alterations and with oromaxillofacial (OMF) disorders. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the OMF alterations presented by patients affected by bone pathology with respect to a healthy population from the same geographical environment.

Material & methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out at Mount Meru Regional Referral Hospital and Kaloleni secondary school in Arusha, Tanzania. The patients with bone pathologies (n = 60) were consecutively recruited from the hospital, while the controls (n = 581) comprised a population of healthy students from the school, which was located in the same neighbourhood as the hospital. In the case group, the different bone pathologies were divided into two subgroups: (i) disorders in cellular metabolism (DCM); and (ii) disorders of bone growth/deformity (DGD). Musculoskeletal and oral clinical examinations were performed in both groups.

Results

The case group presented significantly higher values of moderate and severe inflammation on the Löe & Silness Gingival Index (GI 2: 65%, GI 3: 25%) than the control group (p < 0.001), where mild inflammation predominated (GI 1: 88%). The case group also had higher scores for decayed, missing and filled teeth. Dental fluorosis was reported in 75.2% of controls and in only 26.6% of cases, the differences being clearly significant (p < 0.001). Significant differences for fluorosis were also reported between the two subgroups (p < 0.001), with a higher incidence for the DCM subgroup (43.8%). Twenty-two patients (36.7%) in the case group displayed clinical absence of teeth: the rate was significantly higher in the DGD subgroup (n = 15, 50%) than in the DCM subgroup (n = 8, 25%) (p = 0.045). In relation to the type of dental occlusion, the group with bone pathology presented a significant predominance of Angle class II - III malocclusions (p < 0.001). Craniofacial abnormalities were more frequent in the DGD subgroup, although the difference was not significant. The spine was normal in 41 patients (68.3%) and the differences between subgroups were not significant. Pathological fractures were significantly more frequent in the DGD subgroup (50% vs. 6.3%; p < 0.001). Assessing whether there was a relationship between malocclusion and skeletal deformities (spine and upper limb) in the case group, subjects with upper limb deformity (n = 16) presented significant differences for inverted overjet (p = 0.031).

Conclusion

Patients with bone disease had worse oral health and more severe dental malocclusion than controls. The results presented here may help to raise awareness among orthopedic and pediatric professionals of abnormalities related to OMF conditions in childhood.
Parkinson's disease and glucose metabolism impairment
Authors: Chen Liangjing , Wang Chunyu , Qin Lixia , Zhang Hainan
Published: February 2025

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder. PD patients exhibit varying degrees of abnormal glucose metabolism throughout disease stages. Abnormal glucose metabolism is closely linked to the PD pathogenesis and progression. Key glucose metabolism processes involved in PD include glucose transport, glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid cycle, oxidative phosphorylation, the pentose phosphate pathway, and gluconeogenesis. Recent studies suggest that glucose metabolism is a potential therapeutic target for PD. In this review, we explore the connection between PD and abnormal glucose metabolism, focusing on the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. We also summarize potential therapeutic drugs related to glucose metabolism based on results from current cellular and animal model studies.
Body image differs in weight-based stereotypes between patients with bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder: findings from the BodyTalk project
Authors: Schweda Adam , Meneguzzo Paolo , Steinbach Jasmin , Bäuerle Alexander , Quiros-Ramirez Maria Alejandra , Giel Katrin E. , Teufel Martin , Skoda Eva-Maria , Favaro Angela , Behrens Simone C.
Published: February 2025

Bulimia Nervosa (BN) and Binge Eating Disorder (BED) have considerable symptom overlap, and prior studies observed similiarities in respect to patient’s body image. However, weight-based stereotypes have so far not been considered together with other facets of body image. This study investigated body image, body size estimation accuracy and weight-based stereotypes in a German-Italian sample of 22 patients with BN, 22 patients with BED and 44 weight-matched controls who had no eating disorder. Patients with BN and BED reported significantly more negative body image than controls and were not differently accurate in estimating their body size than the controls. However, patients with BN showed stronger weight-based stereotypes compared to patients with BED and controls, suggesting that these patients hold stronger stereotypes and apply weight-based stereotypes to lower weight excessively. Observations from this study suggest that clinical treatment of body image disturbance in patients with BN and BED should address negative body image and weight-based stereotypes in a differentiated way.
Enhancing the performance of gradient boosting trees on regression problems
Authors: Rizkallah Lydia Wahid
Published: February 2025

Gradient Boosting Trees (GBT) is a powerful machine learning technique that is based on ensemble learning methods that leverage the idea of boosting. GBT combines multiple weak learners sequentially to boost its prediction power proving its outstanding efficiency in many problems, and hence it is now considered one of the top techniques used to solve prediction problems. In this paper, a hybrid approach is proposed that combines GBT with K-means and Bisecting K-means clustering to enhance the predictive power of the approach on regression datasets. The proposed approach is applied on 40 regression datasets from UCI and Kaggle websites and it achieves better efficiency than using only one GBT model. Statistical tests are applied, namely, Friedman and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests showing that the proposed approach achieves significant better results than using only one GBT model.
Editorial perspective: protective factors following cumulative childhood adversity
Authors: Parker Camilla H. , Minnis Helen , Ougrin Dennis
Published: February 2025

Adverse childhood experiences can have a significant impact on adult psychosocial outcomes. However, negative outcomes are not inevitable, and protective factors can interrupt the realisation of negative developmental trajectories and result in positive adaptation in spite of childhood adversity. Interventions that promote social support, encourage education and academic achievement, and address specific personality and dispositional factors are likely to beneficial for those with experience of childhood adversity. Holistic assessment that considers both neurodevelopmental conditions and trauma symptoms is also important for promoting resilience and avoiding assumptions that mental and behavioural problems in children with cumulative adversity are purely ‘social’.
Metabolic depression and non-specific immune response during hibernation of common Asian toad, Duttaphrynus melanostictus
Authors: Sahoo Debadas , Acharya Sibakalyani
Published: February 2025

To assess metabolic depression and non-specific immune response during hibernation in the common Asian toad, Duttaphrynus melanostictus, we measured activities of different enzymes of both aerobic (Oxygen-dependent) and anaerobic (Oxygen-independent) metabolic pathways in liver tissue and some non-specific immune responses in blood and liver tissue by obtaining hibernating toads directly from their hibernaculum in nature. Though decreased activities of enzymes and suppressions of non-specific immune responses were hypothesised, some contrasting results were found. Activities of citrate synthase (CS) and isocitrate dehydrogenase (ICDH) enzymes of aerobic metabolic pathways showed a significant decrease in their activities during hibernation up to 29% and 61% respectively of their active period value. Contrary to our hypothesis enzymes of oxygen-independent metabolic pathways i.e. pyruvate kinase (PK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) showed no significant changes in their activities during hibernation compared to the active period. This shows aerobic metabolic depression during normoxic hibernation in common Asian toads and maintenance of vital activities at a minimum level with utilisation of energy (ATP) generated from the oxygen-independent metabolic pathway. Likewise, the non-specific immune response comprising total leucocyte count, individual leucocytes like neutrophil, eosinophil, basophil, lymphocyte and monocytes showed a significant decrease in their count during hibernation along with a reduction in complement proteins indicated by serum bacteria-killing ability, compared to active period. In contrast, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in liver tissue resulting in oxidative stress in terms of TBARS formed and GSSG/GSH ratio were significantly higher during hibernation, suggesting some components of non-specific immunity remain elevated. So, we conclude that, though there is suppression of non-specific immune response during hibernation to a maximum extent to conserve energy, some components of it in terms of oxidative stress are still in an active state to provide the signal to adaptive immunity for a quick response that is expected during post hibernation phase. Further, it indicates that non-specific immune response during hibernation is variable and tissue-specific.
Μελέτη της συσχέτισης της πολύδυμης κύησης και του ενδεχόμενου προωρότητας με το περιγεννητικό αποτέλεσμα και τον τρόπο αποπεράτωσης του τοκετού
Authors: Μιχαλόπουλος Σπυρίδων
Published: February 2025

Σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης είναι η διερεύνηση παραγόντων που συμβάλλουν στη βελτίωση της περιγεννητικής έκβασης σε δίδυμες κυήσεις. Τα δεδομένα προέρχονται από τα αποτελέσματα δίδυμων κυήσεων από τη Μαιευτική και Γυναικολογική κλινική του Δημοκρίτειου Πανεπιστημίου Θράκης τα τελευταία δεκαπέντε έτη. Συγκεκριμένα, συλλέχθηκαν στοιχεία για τον αριθμό των δίδυμων κυήσεων, την ηλικία της μητέρας, την ηλικία κύησης, τον τρόπο τοκετού (φυσιολογικός τοκετός ή καισαρική τομή), το βάρος γέννησης και το ποσοστό των δίδυμων κυήσεων μετά από υποβοηθούμενη αναπαραγωγή. Τα αποτελέσματα έδειξαν μια αυξητική τάση των δίδυμων κυήσεων. Συνολικά, εντοπίστηκαν 304 δίδυμες κυήσεις (ποσοστό 2,75% σε σύνολο 11.054 κυήσεων). Το ποσοστό διδύμων μετά από υποβοηθούμενη αναπαραγωγή στο δείγμα μας ήταν 34,83%, ενώ το ποσοστό των τοκετών με καισαρική τομή ανερχόταν σε 95,5%, παρουσιάζοντας μεγάλη αύξηση τα τελευταία χρόνια. Σε δέκα περιπτώσεις, ο φυσιολογικός τοκετός πραγματοποιήθηκε με επιτυχία. Η ηλικία κύησης σε δίδυμες κυήσεις που ολοκληρώθηκαν με φυσιολογικό τοκετό ήταν από 37+0 έως 37+3 και τα έμβρυα ήταν και τα δύο με κεφαλική προβολή. Ο κύριος λόγος εισαγωγής νεογνών στο τμήμα ΜΕΝΝ ήταν η προωρότητα. Η συνεχώς βελτιούμενη εκπαίδευση των μαιευτήρων και η κατανόηση της παθοφυσιολογίας μπορεί να οδηγήσει σε εξατομίκευση της θεραπείας τους και βελτίωση της πρόγνωσής τους με βάση πρόσφατα επιστημονικά δεδομένα και από άλλα διεθνή κέντρα.
Η εικαστική παραγωγή στην περιφέρεια
Authors: Διονυσοπούλου Γλυκερία-Παναγιώτα
Published: February 2025

Στην παρούσα διδακτορική διατριβή μελετάται το έργο δύο καλλιτεχνών της Δυτικής Μακεδονίας, του Στερίκα Κούλη (1921-1995) στη Φλώρινα και του Γιώργου Χατζάκη (1937) στην Κοζάνη. Πρόκειται για δύο καλλιτέχνες, οι οποίοι δεν διαθέτουν ακαδημαϊκές εικαστικές σπουδές, αλλά μελετούν, επηρεάζονται και ενσωματώνουν στο έργο τους αρκετά στοιχεία από τα σύγχρονα καλλιτεχνικά ρεύματα. Ο στόχος της διατριβής είναι αφενός να καταγραφεί το εικαστικό έργο των δύο δημιουργών, καθώς και η ευρύτερη καλλιτεχνική τους δράση, ενώ αφετέρου όλα αυτά να μελετηθούν σε σχέση με την καλλιτεχνική παράδοση και το πολιτισμικό πλαίσιο των τοπικών κοινωνιών. Μέσα από αυτή τη μελέτη θα αναδειχθούν παράλληλα και τα ζητήματα της εικαστικής παραγωγής και της πρόσληψής της στη Δυτική Μακεδονία, οι συνθήκες που καθορίζουν την παραγωγή και προώθηση του εικαστικού έργου στην ελληνική περιφέρεια, οι παράγοντες που διαφοροποιούν τον βαθμό εικαστικής κίνησης μεταξύ των δύο πόλεων (Κοζάνη, Φλώρινα), καθώς και η δημιουργία περιφερειακών καλλιτεχνικών θεσμικών φορέων. Συνεπώς, το έργο των Στερίκα Κούλη και Γιώργου Χατζάκη προσφέρεται ως μελέτη περίπτωσης, ώστε να διαφανεί ο ρόλος του μεμονωμένου καλλιτέχνη, των υφιστάμενων εικαστικών δομών και δικτύων, αλλά και της προγενέστερης εικαστικής παράδοσης στη διαμόρφωση του τοπικού εικαστικού γίγνεσθαι.
Exploring the application of instrumental analysis for the conservation of textiles excavated in Greece
Authors: Μαργαρίτη Χριστίνα
Published: February 2025

Η παρούσα διατριβή μια έρευνα με στόχο την ευαισθητοποίηση σχετικά με τα υφάσματα που ανασκάπτονται στην Ελλάδα. Η εγγενώς ευαίσθητη φύση των ανασκαμμένων υφασμάτων εξηγεί τη σπάνια διατήρηση και την κακή κατάσταση των ευρημάτων, καθιστώντας τα συχνά μη αναγνωρίσιμα για τους αρχαιολόγους, πρόκληση για τους συντηρητές και πρόβλημα για ιστορικούς/επιμελητές υφασμάτων. Οι συντηρητές είναι συχνά ο ενδιάμεσος κρίκος μεταξύ των αντικειμένων που φροντίζουν και των ανθρώπων για τους οποίους διατηρούνται αυτά τα αντικείμενα. Οι αναλυτικές μέθοδοι έρευνας παρέχουν ένα μέσο για την αύξηση της κατανόησης των ανασκαμμένων υφασμάτων και με αυτόν τον τρόπο ενισχύουν τη διατήρησή τους. Εφαρμόστηκαν μη καταστροφικές αναλυτικές μέθοδοι ανάλυσης, συγκεκριμένα στερεομικροσκόπιο, οπτική και ηλεκτρονική μικροσκοπία, σε συνδυασμό με φασματοσκοπία διασποράς ενέργειας (ESEM-EDS), μικροφασματοσκοπία FTIR και Raman και φασματοσκοπία XRF, με στόχο τον χαρακτηρισμό και την αναγνώριση του υλικού. Έρευνα μέσω των Αρχείων του Υπουργείου Πολιτισμού αποκάλυψε 65 διαφορετικές περιπτώσεις όπου υφάσματα είχαν διατηρηθεί σε ανασκαφές. Τέσσερα διαφορετικά περιβάλλοντα ευνοϊκά για τη διατήρηση των υφασμάτων στην Ελλάδα εντοπίστηκαν και τέσσερα ευρήματα αντιπροσωπευτικά αυτών των συνθηκών επιλέχθηκαν και υποβλήθηκαν σε αναλύσεις. Τα ευρήματα είναι η κύρια μελέτη περίπτωσης, «Άργος» (που βρίσκεται σε συνδυασμό με χαλκό) και «Θήβα» (βρέθηκε σε απανθρακωμένη κατάσταση), «Καλύβια» (που βρέθηκαν εμποτισμένα με άλατα ασβεστίου) και «Νίκαια» (που βρίσκεται σε συνδυασμό με χαλκό και σε ανοξικές συνθήκες). Η ποιότητα των αποτελεσμάτων διέφερε ανάλογα με το είδος της διατήρησης και την κατάσταση των ευρημάτων. Ο συνδυασμός στερεομικροσκοπίας, ESEM-EDS, XRF και FTIR έδωσε τα πιο αξιόπιστα αποτελέσματα. Τα αποτελέσματα των πειραμάτων αποτέλεσαν τη βάση για την ανάπτυξη κατευθυντήριων γραμμών, σχεδιασμένων να βοηθήσουν τους αρχαιολόγους, τους συντηρητές και τους ιστορικούς/επιμελητές υφασμάτων να κατανοήσουν και να συντηρήσουν τα υφάσματα που έχουν ανασκαφεί στην Ελλάδα.
El lobo y el destino. Ecos poéticos y motivos germánicos medievales en la obra de Borges
Authors: Fernández Moreno Sergio
Published: February 2025

Fruto de una investigación que comenzó en la Universidad de Reikiavik, nace este libro de Sergio Fernández Moreno en el que los paisajes mitológicos escandinavos se funden con los arrabales porteños y donde se descubre la conexión borgeana entre los vikingar y los gauchos o los compadritos del Río de la Plata. Se trata de un trabajo exhaustivo y riguroso de indagación en las raíces medievales germánicas de algunas de las ideas fundamentales de la escritura de Jorge Luis Borges, estudioso él mismo de esta tradición cultural y literaria. La obra ofrece una cuidada descripción de las principales formas poéticas nórdicas y, en especial, de la figura retórica de los "kenningar", variante de la metáfora empleada por los escaldos islandeses y que interesó profundamente al escritor argentino. En estas páginas, además, se aborda una serie de leyendas, como la del oro del Rin, y de motivos y elementos simbólicos que Borges toma de la tradición escáldica.
Sermons, Controversy, and Community Resilience in Surakarta Mosques
Authors: Annur Muhammad Syihabuddin
Published: February 2025

This reasearch aims to explore the forms of controversial religious narratives in the Sagara and Jagananta Mosques in Surakarta, as well as the congregation’s responses to these narratives. The research location is significant because both mosques have been involved in the emergence of an Islamic purist group associated with intolerance and radicalization. The study uses a qualitative method with an ethnographic approach and content analysis, through observations and interviews with eleven mosque members representing the surrounding community. The findings indicate that the controversial narratives emerging in Friday sermons and religious lectures include one-sided condemnations of government policies, political views of other groups, and the demonization of certain communities. In general, the congregations in both mosques demonstrate resilience by questioning and rejecting these narratives, relating them to more official and legitimate sources of information. They respond realistically, rejecting calls such as the condemnation of anti-terrorism laws and the belief that online games are a Jewish attack. Conversely, some more vulnerable members of the congregation affirm these narratives, influenced by feelings of victimization and shared political views. These findings suggest a contestation of religious orientations, which has implications for social transformation within the community.
Molecular Therapeutics Lessons from the Role of Src in Cellular Signalling
Authors: Tuháčková Zdena
Published: February 2025

Src is the oldest and best studied protooncogene participating in normal cells in proliferation, maintenance of normal intercellular contacts and cell motility. Its discovery opened the way for fundamental discoveries on the cell cycle, cell growth and death, cell-cell signalling, cell morphology and motility, and cancer biology. Src is poorly transforming, consistent with a role as a normal cellular protooncogene that, when activated, might serve as an oncogene. Its activation promotes growth during the process of tumorigenesis by stimulating the proliferation of pre-cancerous cells and also regulates other activities such as adhesion and invasion during the later stages of tumour progression. Overexpression of the Src protein and the increase of its specific protein kinase activity have been observed in various human malignancies and linked to the development of cancer and tumour progression to distant metastases. These observations have led to the recent rediscovery of Src, a molecule that has been investigated during nearly a century and that shows promise as a new target for therapy of human cancer in the development of anticancer therapeutics. To determine the role of Src in human cancer, which is still not fully understood, molecular details of many pathways that intersect with Src are necessary to be uncovered. A detailed map of signalling pathways regulating signal transduction and signal integration induced by Src may identify location of different "checkpoints" for the therapeutic intervention of human diseases due to the altered activity of Src.
The effect of canopy temperature depression in Barley crop on different environmental sowing conditions in Trans-Gangetic plains of India
Authors: Navreet B , Surender S , Chander D S , Pankaj D
Published: February 2025

A study on barley crops was carried out at the research farm of the Department of Agricultural Meteorology during the Rabi season of 2019-20 and 2020-21. The trial objective was to understand the effect of various meteorological, plant and soil parameters on the Canopy Temperature Depression (CTD) of barley crops under varying growing environmental conditions. Four dates of sowings were selected for both rabi seasons of 2019-20 and 2020-21, i.e., D1- 15th November 2019, D2- 30th November 2019, D3- 15th December 2019 and D4- 30th December 2019 and D1- 28th November 2020, D2- 14thDecember 2020, D3- 28thDecember 2020 and D4- 8 th January 2021. The meteorological parameters were taken from the agrometeorological observatory at the research farm of CCS HAU, Hisar. Plant and soil parameters were recorded and calculated during the field trials conducted on barley crops in both seasons (2019-20 and 2020-21). The CTD of the barley crop was observed using a hand-held infrared thermometer at different phenological stages. It was observed that the CTD of D1 and D2 sown crops was majorly influenced by meteorological and soil parameters, respectively. The plant parameters majorly influenced the CTD of D3and D4 sown crops.
Extended distribution of two orchids in Himachal Pradesh, Western Himalaya, India
Authors: Kamini T , Rahul K , Vikas K
Published: February 2025

Here we present extended distribution of two orchid species in Himachal Pradesh. In India, Calanthe trulliformis King & Pantl. was previously restricted to the eastern Himalayan region, is now documented for the first time in the western Himalayas. Additionally, Neottia longicaulis (King & Pantl.) Szlach., earlier recorded from Uttarakhand and Sikkim, is now reported from Himachal Pradesh based on collections from Dhauladhar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kangra. Our findings include a detailed description, a photoplate, a locality map and comprehensive notes on these species' habitat, phenology, and distribution.
Evaluation of antimalarial potential of Artemisia nilagirica against chloroquine resistant and sensitive strains of Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Panda S , Sahoo S L , Ranjit M , Rout J R
Published: February 2025

Malaria represents a major vector borne global health problem. The greatest challenge in the malarial treatment is due to the increasing resistance of parasite to antimalarial drugs. The rise of drug-resistant malaria parasites is undermining the effectiveness of more potential drugs. Consequently, there is an urgent requirement for novel antimalarial compounds to manage this disease. Therefore, the current investigation is designed to analyze the antimalarial properties of Artemisia nilagirica against chloroquine (CQ) resistant K1 strain and chloroquine-sensitive 3D7 strain through different solvent extracts of various plant parts (root, stem, leaf and flower). Among the multiple extracts tested, the methanolic flower extract exhibited the highest antiplasmodial activity against CQ resistant K1 strain (IC50= 5.76 ?g/mL) and CQ-sensitive 3D7 strain (IC50= 6.24 ?g/mL) respectively. The lowest values of antimalarial activity were reported in aqueous extract of root against CQ resistant K1 strain (IC50= 68.83 ?g/mL) and CQ sensitive 3D7 strain (IC50= 70.02 ?g/mL). However, moderate activity was reported in chloroform, n-hexane, petroleum ether and ethanol extracts. The GC-MS investigation of methanol extracts of flower confirmed the availability of specific bioactive compounds like bicyclo (2.2.1) heptane-2-one 1,7,7-trimethyl, bicyclo (3.1.1) heptanes 2,4,6-trimethyl, 1,6- cyclodecadiene 1- methyl-5- methylene-8-(1-methyl ethyl) and 3,3- iminosprolamine, 3- methyl-3,5 (cyanoethyl) tetrahydro-4-thiopyranone which are responsible for antiplasmodial activity. The present study’s findings confirm the potential antimicrobial activity of flower methanolic extracts of A. nilagirica against CQ resistant and sensitive strains of P. falciparum.
Valuating productivity and energy Use efficiency in mechanized sesame cultivation
Authors: Pragatheeswaran M , Thavaprakaash N , Harisudan C , Umarani R , Kavitha R , Baskar M
Published: February 2025

A field investigation at the regional research station in Vriddhachalam, Tamil Nadu, during summer and Kharif 2023 and in the summer of 2024 assessed crop establishment techniques, weed management and harvesting methods on sesame yield and energy efficiency. The main plot treatments included an inclined plate planter with pelletized seeds (M1), a pneumatic precision planter with pelletized seeds (M2), a pneumatic precision planter without pelletized seeds (M3) and manual line sowing (M4). Subplot treatments comprised Quizalofop ethyl + reaper binder (S1), Quizalofop ethyl + manual harvest (S2), hand weeding + reaper binder (S3) and hand weeding + manual harvest (S4) in a split-plot design. Line-sown sesame consistently produced higher seed (811, 768, 883 kg/ha) and biological yields (3436, 2979, 3869 kg/ ha) along with improved energy parameters, including energy ratio (1.696, 1.617, 1.828), net gain energy and energy productivity across three seasons. Pneumatic precision planters without pelletized seeds showed higher specific energy and energy intensity, while inclined plate planters with pelletized seeds recorded greater economic energy intensity. Among subplot treatments, hand weeding with reaper binder or manual harvest (S3, S4) resulted in superior seed and biological yields, lower energy input, higher energy output and better energy productivity. However, Quizalofop ethyl + manual harvest (S2) exhibited increased specific energy and economic energy intensity. This study highlights the benefits of sustainable practices and energy-efficient mechanization in sesame cultivation. The combination of line sowing, manual weed control and mechanized harvesting optimizes energy use and enhances productivity, supporting eco-friendly and economically viable sesame farming.
Interpretation of galvanic series when teaching metal corrosion
Authors: Šulčiūtė Agnė , Šulčius Algirdas
Published: February 2025

The article discusses the knowledge of students in metal corrosion. Usually, resistance of metals against corrosion is determined by the values of the standard electromotive force (EMF) of the metals determined versus the standard hydrogen electrode (SHE). However, the standard conditions differ from the real-world conditions under which metal corrosion occurs, so the standard EMF cannot be accepted as an absolute indication of metal`s resistance to corrosion. This difference is due to many environmental factors (e.g., temperature, pH, pressure, concentrations of hydrogen and oxygen in the environment etc.); thus, the value of metal potential is affected. Therefore, the authors have suggested using stationary (corrosion) potentials of metals and galvanic series instead of the standard EMF in the education process. In the article, the authors present a comparison of metal activity series based on standard EMF and galvanic series. The advantage of the galvanic series offered to students studying corrosion is illustrated by the problematic tasks for light metals (Ti, Mg, and Al) and corrosion galvanic cells. Based on the presented values of the metal potentials in the galvanic series, students were able to correctly choose the type of metal coating, they can calculate the EMF values of the corrosion process more accurate and verify them experimentally during the laboratory session.
Coefficient estimates and Fekete-Szegö problem for some classes of univalent functions generalized to a complex order
Authors: Aron Mihai
Published: February 2025

In this article, we determine coefficient estimates and study the Fekete-Szegö problem for classes

Λ

n

(

b

)

{\Lambda }_{n}\left(b)

and

Λ

n

c

(

b

)

{\Lambda }_{n}^{c}\left(b)

, where

b

b

is a nonzero complex order. In addition, we determine estimates for logarithmic coefficients of functions within these classes. Moreover, we extend our study to include estimates for logarithmic coefficients of functions in the classes

F

n

(

b

)

{{\mathscr{F}}}_{n}\left(b)

and

S

n

c

(

b

)

{{\mathscr{S}}}_{n}^{c}\left(b)

, studied by Kanas and Darwish.
Enhancement effect of electron beam irradiation on acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) copolymers from waste electrical and electronic equipment by adding 1,3-PBO: A potential way for waste ABS reuse
Authors: Zhou Ting , Zhao Yun , Xiong Duanya , Ma Bingjie , Li Siyu , Zeng Zhigang
Published: February 2025

The recycling acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) copolymers from waste electrical and electronic equipment lightens the burden on landfills and enables us to reuse waste ABS (wABS), promoting environmental sustainability and resource conservation. In this work, the effect of electron beam irradiation on the properties of wABS by adding 1,3-bis(4,5-dihydro-2-oxazolyl)benzene (1,3-PBO) has been studied. Various characterization methods including gel permeation chromatography, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, mechanical properties test, differential scanning calorimetry, and scanning electron microscopy were conducted to investigate the change of relative molecular weight, chemical structure, mechanical properties, glass transition temperature (T
g), and fracture morphology, respectively. Results demonstrated that the incorporation of 1,3-PBO combined with electron beam irradiation led to significant improvements in molecular weight, tensile strength, impact strength, and T
g. Irradiated wABS-PBO reached optimal comprehensive mechanical properties with the dose at 240 kGy. However, higher electron beam irradiation (>240 kGy) significantly reduced the tensile strength due to extensive chain scission. Besides, the fracture surface morphology became coarser with the reinforced intermolecular binding force of irradiated wABS. This study establishes electron beam irradiation as a promising and effective approach for wABS recycling and reuse.
Multiphysics simulation for microwave-assisted continuous flow in a tube flow reactor with a mode stirrer
Authors: Jin Guangyuan , Zheng Qingyu , Zhu Yulian , Zhu Zhengshan , Wu Yanze , Song Chunfang , Li Zhenfeng , Song Feihu , Li Jing
Published: February 2025

The combination of microwave intensification technology and flow chemistry in food processing can increase the yield and shorten the process reaction time and is a very innovative technology. The key to its application lies in obtaining the electromagnetic heat transfer mechanism and key influencing factors between them. Thus, a microwave-assisted continuous flow reactor structured with a rectangular cavity, serpentine-shaped tube and mode stirrer is designed and investigated by using a multiphysics coupling calculation method. The electromagnetic, flow and heat transfer characteristics in these reactors are simulated and discussed to explore the influence of reactor parameters on the heating effect and heating uniformity. The work in this paper will be helpful for understanding electromagnetic heat transfer in tube flow reactors coupled with microwave heating and mode stirring for food processing.
Prevalence and profile of New Zealand osteopaths treating people experiencing headaches and migraines
Authors: Antunes Ferreira Ana Paula , Vaughan Brett , Draper-Rodi Jerry , Muddle Lee , Treffel Loïc , McIntyre Cindy , Fleischmann Michael , Cerritelli Francesco , Sampath Kesava Kovanur , Steel Amie
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To describe the prevalence and profile of NZ osteopaths treating people experiencing headaches and migraines. This study is the first to describe this practice.

Background

Manual and manipulative therapy interventions are commonly sought by individuals experiencing headaches or migraines. Evidence supports the use of manual therapy as part of the management of headache and migraine disorders. Osteopaths are health professionals who provide care for individuals experiencing headaches and migraines. However, there is a lack of data concerning the profile of osteopaths treating these conditions, in addition to their diagnostic and management strategies.

Methods

The Osteopathy Research Connect-New Zealand (ORC-NZ), a practice-based research network for the New Zealand osteopathy profession, was established, and recruitment occurred between August to December 2018.

Results

Two hundred and seventy-seven respondents provided responses to the headache and migraine items on the ORC-NZ practice questionnaire. Of these respondents, 235 (84.8 %) indicated treating headaches often, and 107 (38.6 %) indicated treating migraines often. Osteopaths who reported often treating patients with migraines and headaches were more likely to report clinically supervising associates and be co-located with a general practitioner. In terms of management, they tend to use HVLA, are likely to treat TMJ in the case of migraines, and the thoracic spine for patients with headaches. Further, NZ osteopaths frequently refer patients with migraines and/or headaches to other practitioners.

Conclusions

NZ osteopaths treat patients with migraines and/or headaches and frequently refer them to other practitioners. NZ osteopaths are aware of the inter-professional approach required for this patient population.
Infrastructures of Musical Globalization, 1850–2000: Introduction
Authors: Pestel Friedemann , Rempe Martin
Published: February 2025

The introduction to this forum highlights infrastructures as crucial, yet often overlooked, enablers of musical globalization from 1850 to 2000, facilitating the creation, transmission, and transformation of music across diverse contexts. By framing infrastructures as both material and relational constructs, we argue that they underpin connections between musical practices, genres, and institutions while also reflecting power dynamics and exclusions. Our approach underscores the indispensable role of infrastructures in shaping global musical exchanges and their historical trajectories.
“He is Not an Artist But a Trust”: Herbert von Karajan’s Global Career and the (A)political Economy of Classical Music
Authors: Pestel Friedemann
Published: February 2025

The career of conductor Herbert von Karajan (1908–89) is often considered exemplary for twentieth-century classical musicianship. At the same time, Karajan remains a controversial figure both with regard to his affiliation with National Socialism and his role in the commercialization of classical music. Going beyond biographical approaches, this article argues that Karajan’s appearances in Europe, North America, East Asia, and the Middle East, together with his turn toward musical mass production, served to shield him from postwar political protests. A consideration of Karajan’s global career also requires expanding the traditional focus on international musical relations as cultural diplomacy projects to include the role of the music industry in twentieth-century classical musical life. From the 1950s, the infrastructures of Karajan’s career emerged as a global system of musical production and distribution based on cooperation with selected partners, on recordings, festival performances, intercontinental tours, and media innovations. Collaborations with European, American, and Asian record companies and music agents helped Karajan to detach his career from political ideas of music-making such as those related to denazification, national representation, or democratization. Instead, infrastructures allowed Karajan to promote an apolitical understanding of global audience participation through individual music consumption.
Pragmatischer Ansatz zur schlanken und grünen Produktion
Authors: Schmidt Christopher , Gänsler Alisa
Published: February 2025

Rechtliche Vorgaben wie die CSRD-Berichtspflicht und gesetzliche Klimaziele sind Herausforderungen für Unternehmen. Mit unserem Ansatz zur Dekarbonisierung von Produktionswerken sowie zur Lean & Green Transparenz auf dem Shopfloor ermöglichen wir eine kosteneffiziente Transformation zur Erreichung von Nachhaltigkeits-Zielen und Erfüllung von rechtlichen Vorgaben.