bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Analysis of Metabolic Conditions and Current Therapeutic Approaches: A Systematic Review
Authors: Trivedi Hetvi , Fayaz Omar , Korban Christopher , Chung Christian
Published: April 2024

This review rigorously investigates the evolving pharmacological landscape for metabolic disorders, focusing on Phenylketonuria (PKU), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Galactosemia, Medium Chain Acyl CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency (MCADD), and Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, we meticulously searched databases such as NHS, Rare Diseases, Pubchem, Clinical Trials, DrugBank, PubMed, and Mayo Clinic, spanning from January 2000 to December 2023. Our objective was to evaluate the efficacy and potential of both FDA-approved drugs and those in clinical trials. The review revealed significant advancements in the treatment of disorders like PKU, with drugs like Kuvan facilitating improved metabolic functioning. In IBD, treatments have progressed to specifically target inflammatory pathways using drugs like Azathioprine and Mesalazine, shifting away from broader immunosuppressants. Galactosemia and MCADD, disorders without definitive cures, have shown potential in clinical trials with investigational drugs like AT-007 and Triheptanoin. Particularly intriguing are the ongoing trials for PWS, a complex syndrome, where Oral NNZ-2591 and Oxytocin demonstrate promising potential. These findings highlight the critical importance of specialized treatment strategies, tailored to address the unique metabolic challenges posed by each disorder. The diverse nature of these disorders necessitates a multifaceted approach, combining current scientific knowledge with innovative drug development. This study not only contributes to a better understanding of existing treatments but also emphasizes the need for continued research and development to uncover more effective and personalized therapeutic options for managing these varied metabolic disorders.
Polyglandular Syndrome Type 1 Complicated with Dilated Cardiomyopathy: A Case Report
Authors: Abidi Syed Ali Raza , Rasheed Faizan , Reddy Ram Prasanjith , Vadakkan Reshmi Francis , Khan Afrasayab , Doddereddy Navya Pillikunte , Quadri Afreen , Younas Salma
Published: April 2024

The autoimmune polyglandular syndrome (APS) is a rare recessive inherited syndrome that presents a discrete pattern of endocrine abnormalities. There are 3 types of APS: type 1, type 2, and type 3. The rarest type is type 1 acute polyglandular syndrome. Type 1 polyglandular syndrome targets endocrine and nonendocrine tissues in an autoimmune-destructive process. Our case report is about a 27-year-old male who came with complaints of fever, dysarthria, and dysphagia and presented with oral candidiasis and nail dystrophy, along with complaints of alopecia since he was 7 years old, progressively worsening with time. In the following year, he was diagnosed with hypoparathyroidism and dilated cardiomyopathy. Laboratory results display hypocalcemia, hyperphosphatemia, low Parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels suggestive of hypoparathyroidism, and serum morning cortisol levels in the normal range-these features of mucocutaneous candidiasis and hypoparathyroidism contribute to the diagnosis of APS-1. The non-contrast Computed tomography (CT) scan of the brain revealed a unique finding: bilateral symmetrical calcifications, including subcortical white matter in the frontal, parietal, temporal lobes, and basal ganglia. He was treated with oral calcium, an antifungal oral suspension, and managed conservatively for dilated cardiomyopathy with beta-blockers, angiotensin receptor/neprilysin inhibitor (ARNi), and diuretics. At the same time, dysphagia and dysarthria settled after the resolution of candidiasis. This case of a rare disease brings knowledge about the discrete manifestations of APS type 1.
Minimally Invasive Cervical Lymph Node Excision With Ultrasound-guided Tracer Injection and Intraoperative Use of a Portable Gamma Camera: a Case Report
Authors: Montero Javier Arredondo , Ruiz Maria Rodríguez , Miguelez Ana Isabel Sevilla
Published: April 2024

Despite the support of intraoperative conventional radiological techniques, such as ultrasonography (US), the correct surgical identification of specific lymph nodes can be complex. New techniques have emerged in recent years, although their use in the paediatric population is marginal. We report the case of a patient with suspected lymphoproliferative syndrome and a previous non-diagnostic excisional cervical lymph node biopsy in which, after injection of a US-guided tracer into the lymph node with the highest SUV on the PET-CT study, it was identified and was completely excised with the support of a surgical gamma probe and a portable gamma camera. This procedure appears to be a safe and technically feasible in the pediatric population.
MakeComp4School
Authors: Maurer Björn
Published: April 2024

Das Anliegen des vorliegenden Beitrags besteht in der Konzeptionierung und Fortentwicklung eines Kompetenzrahmens für Maker Education in der Volksschule. Der Kompetenzrahmen mit dem Arbeitstitel «MakeComp4School» soll Lehrpersonen als Grundlage für die Auswahl und Planung von Making-Aktivitäten im Unterricht dienen. Er soll insbesondere die Anschlussfähigkeit der Maker Education an schulische Curricula erhöhen und aufzeigen, dass schulisches Making geeignet ist, um fachliche und überfachliche Kompetenzen im Sinne der bildungspolitischen Rahmenbedingungen (in diesem Fall der nationale Lehrplan21 in der Schweiz) zu entwickeln. Zudem sollen Lehrpersonen mit «MakeComp4School» ein Instrument erhalten, mit dem sie den Kompetenzerwerb ihrer Schüler:innen im Bereich Making sichtbar machen und würdigen können. Mit dem Blick auf aktuelle gesellschaftliche Entwicklungen und Herausforderungen unter den Vorzeichen einer Kultur der Digitalität (Stalder 2016) liegt ein Schwerpunkt des Kompetenzrahmens auf der transversalen Leitidee einer Nachhaltigen Entwicklung (NE) und bezieht auch – sofern mit den Anliegen der Maker Education kompatibel – Kompetenzbereiche einer Bildung für nachhaltige Entwicklung (BNE) ein. Entstehungskontext des Kompetenzrahmens ist das Forschungsprojekt «Making Packages für kompetenzorientiertes Lernen», das in Kooperation der Ostschweizer Fachhochschule (OST), der Pädagogischen Hochschule St. Gallen (PHSG) sowie der Pädagogischen Hochschule Thurgau (PHTG) mit dem Wirtschaftspartner Bischoff AG durchgeführt wird. In diesem Projekt ist der Making-Kompetenzrahmen die Grundlage für die Entwicklung und Kuratierung von Making-Aktivitäten, die Lehrpersonen künftig auf einer OER-Webplattform angeboten werden.
Anerkannte Regeln der medizinischen Wissenschaften und Berufspflichten bei der NaP-Verschreibung
Authors: Gächter Thomas , Truong Thuy Xuan
Published: April 2024

Die Abgabe des Sterbemittels Natrium-Pentobarbital (NaP) erfordert eine ärztliche Verschreibung, die sich an den «anerkannten Regeln der medizinischen Wissenschaften» zu orientieren hat. In der Schweiz existieren zwar die Richtlinien «Sterben und Tod» zu ethischen Aspekten der Suizidbegleitung und der NaP-Verschreibung, die von der SAMW verfasst und von der FMH ins Standesrecht überführt worden sind. Anerkannte medizinische Regeln zur Verschreibung von NaP bestehen jedoch nicht. Es ist deshalb nach wie vor umstritten, ob Ärztinnen und Ärzte, die ausserhalb des Anwendungsbereichs der SAMW-Richtlinien «Sterben und Tod» NaP verschreiben, juristisch korrekt handeln. Die für die Ärzteschaft daraus entstehende Unsicherheit sollte vom Gesetzgeber beseitigt werden.

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La délivrance de Natrium-Pentobarbital (NAP), médicament utilisé pour pratiquer l'euthanasie, nécessite une prescription médicale dans la mesure admise par la science. En Suisse, les directives Attitude face à la fin de vie et à la mort, élaborées par l'ASSM (Académie Suisse des Sciences Médicales), qui traitent des questions éthiques de l'assistance au suicide et de la prescription de NAP, ont été transposées dans le Code de déontologie par la FMH (Foederatio Medicorum Helveticorum). Il n'existe cependant aucune règle médicale contraignante et reconnue permettant d'encadrer la prescription de NAP. La question de savoir si les médecins qui prescrivent du NAP en dehors du champ d'application des directives de l'ASSM agissent correctement sur le plan juridique demeure donc controversée. Il incombe ainsi au législateur de lever l'incertitude juridique dans laquelle se trouve le corps médical.
Innovations in the Energy Sector as a Powerful Catalyst for Financial Transformations
Authors: Strielkowski Wadim
Published: April 2024

Conventional wisdom often posits that financial innovations are the primary drivers of energy transitions, facilitating the shift from traditional fossil fuels to renewable sources. However, a nuanced examination of this relationship suggests a reciprocal dynamic where innovations in the energy sector can significantly propel financial transformations. The global pivot towards renewable energy sources necessitates substantial financial investments, thus catalyzing the emergence of novel financial instruments, green bonds, and innovative financing models dedicated to supporting the renewable energy sector. This interdependence between energy transitions and financial innovation reflects the adaptability of financial institutions to the evolving demands of sustainable energy initiatives. As societies increasingly embrace cleaner energy solutions, the financial sector responds by devising inventive strategies to underwrite these transitions. Highlighting the growing academic interest in this symbiotic relationship, the number of publications on energy transitions and financial innovations indexed in the Web of Science database has witnessed a remarkable increase from a mere 10 in 2015 to 113 in 2023, indicating a rapidly increasing field of academic research. This paper presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the existing research literature on the interplay between energy transition and financial innovations. Utilizing a network analysis approach and the VOSviewer software – a tool renowned for its efficacy in uncovering prevailing trends and patterns in interdisciplinary research – the study aims to map out the intellectual landscape of this domain. Our findings elucidate that energy transitions do not merely benefit from financial innovations but can also act as potent drivers of financial change, as evidenced by numerous recent and historical examples. This reciprocal influence underscores the critical role of energy sector advancements in shaping financial practices and instruments. The study’s insights contribute significantly to the understanding of how energy transitions and financial innovations mutually reinforce each other, providing valuable implications for policymakers, investors, and researchers focused on fostering sustainable energy ecosystems and financial market resilience.
Effect of maternal bovine appeasing substance on health and performance of preweaned dairy calves
Authors: Bringhenti Leonardi , Colombo Eduardo , Rodrigues Marjory X. , Cooke Reinaldo F.
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the impacts of a maternal bo­vine appeasing substance (MBAS) administered to preweaned Holstein calves on their health and performance. In total, 410 calves individually allocated were enrolled (Treatment, n = 205; Control, n = 205). Treated calves received a topical application of MBAS to the nuchal skin (2.5 ml) and the skin above the muzzle (2.5 ml) at one day of age and then every 14 days until weaning at 60 days of life. An extra dose was ap­plied when calves were moved from hutches to collective pens at approximately 100 days of age. Calves allocated to the control group did not receive any kind of treatment. MBAS re­duced the incidence of diarrhea (treatment = 58.6% vs control = 70.8%; P = 0.01) as well as mortality risk (treatment = 2.4% vs control = 7.8%; P = 0.02). Furthermore, calves treated with MBAS had greater (P = 0.002) body weight 7 days after calves were moved from the hutches to the collective pens. There­fore, the use of MBAS during the preweaning period appears to be an effective strategy to improve health and growth of dairy calves.
Analysis of published and clinical sample data to develop new ranges of liver and blood concentrations of vitamin A for diagnosis of vitamin A deficiency in cattle
Authors: Villar David , Schaeffer David J.
Published: April 2024

In cattle, liver stores of vitamin A (VA) maintain blood VA concentrations until liver supplies are nearly exhausted, pro­viding VA to tissues during insufficient dietary intake. There­fore, normal blood levels do not indicate adequate VA, but low blood levels indicate a deficiency. We hypothesized that previous diagnostic criteria for VA deficiency needed updating and that blood levels of VA could be used as indicators of liver VA deficiency. We performed multiple regressions of paired blood and liver sample data from published experimental and field case reports of VA deficiency in cattle to demonstrate this. We fitted various models using data from unpaired clini­cal samples submitted to the Iowa State University Diagnostic Laboratory by comparing fractiles of liver and plasma/serum samples. Using these relationships, we propose new ranges for severely deficient, deficient, marginal and adequate, and we also propose that blood samples alone can be used to di­agnose deficiency in the presence of clinical signs of VA defi­ciency. Veterinary diagnostic laboratories can use this infor­mation to better estimate serum and liver VA concentrations for unpaired data and recommend to cattle practitioners the status of VA in their herds.
Evaluation of the treatment efficacy of generic enrofloxacin compared to pioneer enrofloxacin for first treatment of naturally occurring bovine respiratory disease in a commercial feedlot
Authors: Theurer Miles E. , Fox Trent , Newberry Jessica R. , Payot Fabrice
Published: April 2024

The primary objective of this study was to compare the treatment effectiveness of generic enrofloxacin (Tenotryl™ (enrofloxacin) injectable solution; TEN) to pioneer enrofloxacin (Baytril® 100; BAY) for first treatment of naturally occurring bovine respiratory disease (BRD) on subsequent health outcomes in a commercial feedlot. Five hundred cattle identified with BRD by pen riders with rectal temperature ≥ 104.0°F (40°C) were randomized to TEN or the BAY in a 1:1 ratio within each lot. Cattle treated for BRD were returned to their home pen and monitored for 60 days to observe subsequent health outcomes. Cattle were categorized by type (dairy-beef cross or traditional beef breed). General and generalized linear mixed models were used for statistical analyses. There were no differences in first treatment success (64.29% vs 58.16%; P = 0.19) or case fatality risk (10.97% vs 10.65%; P = 0.91) comparing the TEN group to the BAY group respectively. Traditional beef breed cattle had greater body weight at time of enrollment (890.3 lb vs 749.1 lb; P < 0.01) and greater third treatment success (84.44% vs 41.67%; P < 0.01) compared to the dairy-beef cross cattle. There were no differences in health outcomes in cattle administered Tenotryl compared to Baytril 100 for first treatment of BRD in commercial feedlot cattle. From an efficacy perspective, practitioners should be able to use these products interchangeably based upon the results of the study. Additional research on general animal health outcomes of dairy-beef crosses is needed for the industry.
Comparison of electronic nose and conventional cow-side diagnostic tools for detection of ketosis in early lactation dairy cows
Authors: Schelkopf Conrad S. , Apley Michael D. , Lubbers Brian V.
Published: April 2024

Rapid diagnosis of ketosis in dairy cows is imperative for treatment and managing economic losses. Cow-side ketosis diagnostic tools are greatly needed. The objective of this study was to compare three tools for the detection of ketosis, using serum β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) as the gold standard. The di­agnostic tools tested were: (1) Precision Xtra® handheld blood ketone meter, (2) ReliOn® urine ketone test strip, and (3) Cyra­nose 320® electronic nose (eNose) for use on milk and urine. Dairy cows (n = 60) were sampled immediately post-calving. Whole blood, serum, milk, and urine were collected and ana­lyzed on the same day. Each modality was compared to BHB to determine sensitivity and specificity. Positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated across a range of ketosis, consistent with reported prevalence (10-35%) in U.S. dairy operations. Urine ketone strips provided the highest specificity (99.2%), yet low sensitivity (58.6%). The Precision Xtra demonstrated adequate sensitivity (93.8%) and specificity (92.9%). The eNose had substandard sensitivity and specificity when used on milk (Sn: 58.8%; Sp: 44.3%) and urine (Sn: 18.8%%; Sp: 80.6%) compared to the other modalities. Al­though the actual predictive values change with prevalence, urine ketone test strips had the highest PPV (89.5-97.6%) and Precision Xtra had the highest NPV (99.3-96.5%) across all simulated ketosis prevalences. Both urine ketone test strips and the Precision Xtra are adequate cow-side ketosis detection tools. Further optimization of the eNose is needed before de­ployment as a field diagnostic tool.
Case report: Systemic granulomatous disease with vasculitis in a bull due to hairy vetch (Vicia villosa) toxicosis
Authors: Ilha Marcia R.S. , Hawkins Ian K. , Jones A. Lee
Published: April 2024

A 5-year-old Angus bull presented for generalized alopecia, thickened pleated skin and profuse malodorous watery diarrhea. This bull, along with 6 other beef bulls, had been grazing in a pasture containing hairy vetch (Vicia villosa) for 5-6 months. Diagnostic samples included blood for CBC and chemistry, skin biopsy and scrapings, fecal sample and liver biopsy. Biopsy of skin revealed a chronic, moderate, perivascular and perifollicular, eosinophilic to histiocytic-lymphocytic dermatitis with moderate acanthosis and hyperkeratosis indicative of an ongoing hypersensitivity reaction. The bull did not respond to treatment and was euthanized due to poor prognosis. At necropsy, disseminated systemic granulomatous disease with variable numbers of multinucleated giant cells and eosinophils was observed in multiple organs indicative of systemic granulomatous disease, along with vasculitis in the kidney, liver, and adrenal gland, indicative that vasculitis is involved in the pathogenesis of the lesions. Viral diseases were ruled out by  immunohistochemistry of sections of kidney and by in situ hybridization on kidney sections. CD3, CD20, and CD79a lymphocyte markers immunostaining of sections of kidney revealed predominance of CD3 positive lymphocytes, indicative of predominance of T-cell lymphocytes supporting a type-IV hypersensitivity. The vasculitis observed prompted formulating a list of differential diagnoses for infectious diseases that have evidence of vasculitis, including bovine virus diarrhea virus and malignant catarrhal fever. Vasculitis, although previously described in cases of hairy vetch poisoning, is not observed in every single case of the disease. The remaining bulls were not removed from the pasture and none developed clinical signs.
"The Greatest and Most Important Human Right": Citizenship and Bureaucratic Indifference in Refugee-UNHCR Correspondence
Authors: Abdelaaty Lamis
Published: April 2024

This article examines how refugees advocate for themselves with the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), and what responses their communications engender. It analyzes letters sent by refugees in Kenya to UNHCR headquarters in Geneva between 1983 and 1994. The findings underline a disjuncture between refugees’ efforts to constitute themselves as political agents, and UNHCR’s insistence on viewing them as depoliticized subjects. The refugees perform citizenship vis-à-vis UNHCR, using their shared identity as a basis for collective claims-making and trying to renegotiate their unequal relationship with the international organization. To empower themselves, they adopt the international organization’s own refugee rights vocabulary and play off different organizations and layers of UNHCR against each other. UNHCR’s responses (or lack thereof) demonstrate the consequences of its insulation and bureaucratization. These insights are especially noteworthy in light of recent progress on meaningful refugee participation in the refugee regime.
Sustainable consumption in Indonesia: Health awareness, lifestyle, and trust among Gen Z and Millennials
Authors: Agustina Thalia , Susanti Evi , Ali Saeed Rana Junaid
Published: April 2024

This study explores the pathways to sustainable consumption among Gen Z and Millennials in Indonesia, focusing on the roles of health awareness, lifestyle behavior, and trust. Sustainable consumption in this context refers to conscientious choices made by individuals to minimize negative impacts on the environment and society while supporting personal health and well-being. A total of 210 respondents, representing consumers aged 18 to 42, who had purchased from healthy food restaurants in Jakarta, participated in the survey. This age range was chosen to encompass both Generation Z and Millennials, with a focus on individuals who are likely to be financially independent and capable of purchasing food for themselves. This sample was chosen to capture insights from key demographics known for their influence on consumption patterns and environmental awareness. Utilizing structural equation modeling, the analysis reveals that health awareness and lifestyle behavior significantly influence healthy food choices and sustainable consumption patterns. The direct path coefficient from lifestyle behavior to sustainable consumption (β = 0.394) surpassed that of health awareness (β = 0.134), underscoring the importance of lifestyle factors in driving sustainable consumption behaviors. Furthermore, trust emerged as a significant mediator between these factors and sustainable consumption. Health awareness and lifestyle behavior explained 65.3% of the variance in healthy food choices and influenced consumer trust by 39.7%. Additionally, lifestyle behavior and trust accounted for 61.2% of the variance in sustainable consumption. These findings highlight the critical role of lifestyle choices and trust-building efforts in fostering sustainable consumption behaviors among Gen Z and Millennials in Indonesia.
Application of fat replacers in dairy products: A review
Authors: Abbas Hayam M. , Abd El-Gawad Mona A. M. , Kassem Jihan M. , Salama Mohamed
Published: April 2024

The consumption of fat raises the risk of coronary heart disease and a number of chronic diseases such as obesity. However, removing fat or reducing its level in the final product may give it undesirable properties since fat plays an important role in the quality of food, mainly its texture and flavor. Therefore, natural or artificial fat replacers are utilized in food formulations instead of natural fat. Fat mimics are based on carbohydrates, proteins, and/or lipids, with energy values of 0–38 kJ/g (0–9 kcal/g).
They mimic physical properties and sensory attributes of fat but have less energy and calories. Fat substitutes have physical and functional characteristics of conventional fat molecules which are directly replaced with synthetic molecules that provide no calories or structured lipid molecules. Dairy products represent a principal part of consumer diet all over the world.
Therefore, this review aimed to expound how fat replacers can be used to overcome the defects of fat absence or reduction in dairy products. It was reviewed different types and sources of fat replacers, both micro- and nanoparticulated, and highlighted their application in cheese, ice cream, frozen yogurt, fermented milk, and fatty dairy products. Some of the currently applied micro-particulated proteins include Simplesse® (whey protein), APV LeanCreme™, and Dairy-Lo® (micro-particulate protein + micro-particulate cellulose).
While whey protein has a great role in the dairy sector today, there is a need for further research in this field.
Performance indicators and analytic hierarchy process to evaluate water supply services management in Algeria
Authors: Boukhari Sofiane , Mrad Dounia , Dairi Sabri
Published: April 2024

The provision of an efficient water supply service (WSS) is crucial for the well-being of citizens and the sustainability of cities. This study aims to evaluate the performance of WSS using the results of a household survey and the ranking of performance indicators (PIs) by the analytic hierarchy process method. The methodology developed was tested for the case of the city of Taoura (Algeria). A survey was carried out among 340 residents of the city. The survey results showed that the majority of respondents (70%) were relatively dissatisfied with the quantity of water provided and 67% of households surveyed rated the quality of service as poor. Then, the performance was evaluated according to 5 decision criteria and 20 PIs. The results of the evaluation of the relative weights of the criteria are as follows: the ‘Financial and economic’ criterion plays the most important role, with a relative weight of 38.61%, followed by the ‘Operational’ criterion (24.7%) and the criterion ‘Physics’ (17.32%). The methodology used in this study can be a reliable tool for evaluating the performance of WSS in developing countries.
Expression of Concern: Oil painting color image enhancement recognition method based on artificial intelligence: applications of an AI model in environmental research
Authors: Yao E. , White Marvin
Published: April 2024

Due to the pollution of the air and water environment and the problem of forgery, it is difficult to identify oil paintings. The reason is that air pollution and water pollution can lead to moisture, mold, and even water stains on the picture, which will seriously damage the integrity and color performance of the picture. At the same time, chemicals in the water may also have a corrosive effect on the oil painting, further destroying the color and detail of the picture. The problem of relying entirely on the conventional experience of experts is too subjective. Some controversial works are difficult to convince people with rational identification evidence, so it is necessary to explore a scientific and effective method to quantify the authenticity of oil paintings. This paper constructs an oil painting authenticity identification method based on multi-feature fusion based on the artistic style analysis and feature extraction of oil painting shape, color and texture. The recognition accuracy of the proposed method is compared with that of the existing neural network. The results show that the recognition rate of the proposed model is 73.0%, which is the best performance.
Identifying potential concerns on surface water resources usage through citizen scientific field investigation in the Province of Antique, Philippines
Authors: Yazawa Taishi , Rubite Kenn Joshua Geroy , Macabata-Rubite Princess Eden
Published: April 2024

This research conducted a citizen scientific field investigation and water quality assessment of nine major rivers using only on-site equipment and a smartphone in the Province of Antique, Philippines. Potential issues concerning water resources management in the province were discussed with local governors and citizens while conducting the water sampling and on-site measurement. The results of water quality assessments revealed that some of the rivers have experienced high turbidity, caused by anthropogenic activities such as embankment, sand mining, and dredging. In highly populated basins, such as the Sibalom and Malandog Rivers, a high biochemical oxygen demand level (>7 mg/L) was confirmed by the water quality analysis using an iPhone. Since high consumption of groundwater has already affected the lives of people in the province, surface water usage shifting from groundwater, involving the construction of a facility treating physical and chemical parameters, is needed. The citizen scientific approach employed in this research can provide more realistic insights into local environmental concerns, which would not be possible through quantitative measurements of water quality.
Fulgor de la Calle Grande
Authors: Luis José
Published: April 2024

Fulgor de la Calle Grande es una novela de ambiente caribe cuyo eje central es el amor obsesivo de «Jose», el protagonista, por Vulcana Manjarrés, desde que la conoció cuando ambos eran niños en la década de los cincuenta. En torno a este fascinante relato se va desenvolviendo la trayectoria de Santa Marta con sus múltiples variantes locales, históricas y políticas y la perenne recreación de la belleza y eternidad del mar. Esta novela plural, experimental, retadora del lenguaje, cuenta con variados registros estéticos y, sobre todo, es un canto de amor a la ciudad natal de su autor y, al mismo tiempo, una afirmación jubilosa del ser humano.
Las aventuras de Gaia
Authors: García Mauricio , García Diana , Pabón Sara
Published: April 2024

En el año 50 de Marte, GAIA, una niña humana nativa del Planeta Rojo, aburrida del mundo holográfico en el que vive, decide ir a la Tierra a conocer las especies marinas, como se ven en el libro de biología que le regaló su abuela. GAIA aprovecha una interferencia en la energía de la ciudad de Elysium para convencer a ECCO, su dispositivo con inteligencia artificial, de llevarla a la Tierra. Luego de un aterrizaje forzoso sobre la superficie terrestre, GAIA queda sorprendida al ver el paisaje de una ciudad sumergida, y sin pensarlo dos veces se sumerge en el mar. GAIA y ECCO llegan a un museo sumergido, rodeado de corales y lleno de peces. Con ayuda de ECCO, GAIA aprende que los corales son seres vivos y que hay especies que se extinguieron a causa de humanos irresponsables. En un laboratorio sumergido, GAIA descubre lo que ocurrió a la Tierra hace más de doscientos años, pero la presión del agua hace que GAIA se desmaye, ECCO la transporta rápidamente a la nave y regresan a Marte. Al despertar, GAIA le cuenta a su abuela que la Tierra se ha salvado.
Phytochemistry, Antioxidants, Antimicrobial Activities and Edible Coating Application of Aloe Vera
Authors: Shala Awad Y. , Elmenofy Hayam M. , Abd El-Hakim Eisa Eman , Al-Khayri Jameel M.
Published: April 2024

Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. is a medicinal plant that has gained widespread
interest due to the distinctive biological activities associated with its biologically active
phytocomponents. To combat the difficulties caused by microbe resistance, it is
urgently necessary to investigate potent antimicrobials as a natural alternative to
synthetic chemicals. This challenging task is attracting a lot of interest from the
scientific community worldwide. The previous antimicrobial results of A. vera
indicated its broad spectrum to treat a variety of infectious diseases, which will support
the development of new herbal antimicrobial agents and avoid the side effects of
conventional antibiotics as well as preserve the fruit quality and extend the shelf-life of
various vegetables and fruits To take advantage of the prospective uses of this plant,
the current review offers insight into the phytochemical composition, and its
production-limiting factors, antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, as well as the
promising use of A. vera in postharvest fruit-coating.
Micropropagation and Phytochemical Studies on Oroxylum Indicum (L) Kurz – A Review
Authors: Talari Samatha , Nanna Rama Swamy
Published: April 2024

Oroxylum indicum (L) Kurz is a medicinal forest tree with therapeutically
active principles owing to its anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiulcer,
anti-arthiritic, and anti-angiogenic properties and known to be employed in ayurveda,
Unani and folk medicine. Due to the possession of biologically active constituents, the
tree is uprooted for the isolation of phytoconstituents and preparation of drugs from
different parts of a tree and is over-exploited by pharmaceutical industries. Hence the
tree is becoming an endangered species. In view of the above, this medicinally
important tree species needs conservation and also thorough study on its medicinal
properties. In vitro culture methodologies have to be employed for large-scale
production and to know the importance and the activity of various chemical
components of this valuable medicinal tree, as this knowledge plays a vital role in the
conservation and synthesis of active principles with specific activity to treat various
ailments. The present review focuses on the published data on conservation and also
phytochemical studies of O. indicum to highlight the traditional usage of this tree
species in various health disorders and also to conserve the tree using various in vitro
culture techniques for its large-scale production.
The Future of Solar Energy: A Deep Dive into Third Generation Solar Cells
Authors: Murugeswari A.
Published: April 2024

This chapter provides a comprehensive discussion of the developments in solar cells encompassing first, second, and third-generation solar cells. Specifically, the focus lies on third-generation solar cells, including an overview of their progression and a performance comparison with other genres of solar cells. The operational principles and materials used in photovoltaic studies are elaborated. Moreover, the chapter explores recent breakthroughs aimed at enhancing the efficiency of DSSC components, organometal halide perovskite compounds, and organic solar cells.
Perovskite Solar Cells: Current Strategy and Future Perspective
Authors: Murugadoss G.
Published: April 2024

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have demonstrated notable improvements in their power conversion efficiency (PCE), indicating both academic research and commercial application value. The PCE gap is closing when compared to silicon cells sold in stores. Large-scale production, cost, and stability, however, are still far behind. Every functional layer of perovskite solar cells has a range of relevant research for scaling up the preparation of high-efficiency and stable PSCs. The functional layers, such as the electron transport layer, perovskite layer, hole transport layer, and electrode, have been the subject of recent research, which is systematically summarised in this chapter. Significant advancements in device stability and efficiency over the last few decades can be attributed to massive research efforts in compositional, process, and interfacial engineering. We discuss the benefits and drawbacks of PSCs in comparison to the current silicon photovoltaic technology with regard to commercial applications. Moreover, we discuss the structural stability, optical properties, perovskite device structure and operation principle, High efficiency PSCs, Perovskite powder production for diverse application. PSCs provide low manufacturing costs and solution processability, but on the road to commercialization, their poor stability and element toxicity need to be addressed. It is yet unknown how to resolve the costly and unstable issues with electrode materials and Spiro-OMeTAD. There is also discussion of the primary issues and the path for their future growth. In addition, we offer our predictions for PSC commercialization in the solar industry. PSCs are expected to show greater promise in tandem configurations and low-cost modules.
Van gedeelde ruimte naar 'eigen' ruimte
Authors: Leferink Vera
Published: April 2024

Van wie is het plein of het parkje aan het einde van de straat? Wie gebruikt het en wie voelt zich verantwoordelijk voor het beheer? De inrichting en het onderhoud van de openbare ruimte bepalen het gebruik van deze ruimten. Daarnaast zijn deze componenten van invloed op het eigenaarschapsgevoel over deze ruimten.
Straatintimidatie en stigmatisering
Authors: Dekker Mischa
Published: April 2024

De groeiende aandacht voor straatintimidatie heeft ertoe geleid dat gedragingen die voorheen als normaal werden beschouwd, nu ook op politiek niveau erkend worden als problematisch. Desondanks is er lokaal een aanzienlijke variatie in de definitie van straatintimidatie, en volgens critici werkt de focus op de straat stigmatisering in de hand.
Straat-skateboarders
Authors: Beukeboom Romy
Published: April 2024

Wereldwijd zijn er ongeveer 50 miljoen skateboarders. Hun bewegingen en leefwereld blijven niet gebonden aan skateparken of half-pipes. Met hun vindingrijke kijk op de omgeving is de straat een ultieme speeltuin, waarin straat-skateboarders spelen met het machtsevenwicht van publieke ruimte.
Jarava disticha (Poaceae, Pooideae, Stipeae), una nueva combinación nomenclatural y delimitación taxonómica con Jarava pachypus
Authors: Muñuico Jhon W. , Dillon Michael O. , Quipuscoa Silvestre Victor
Published: April 2024

Antecedentes y Objetivos: El género Jarava está conformado por 30-32 especies que se distribuyen desde México hasta Sudamérica. Stipa y Jarava por muchos años no estuvieron bien delimitados; incluso Stipa disticha fue considerado como sinónimo de J. pachypus en tratamientos taxonómicos y catálogos. El objetivo de este estudio es delimitar los caracteres morfológicos, realizar la nueva combinación taxonómica y mencionar la distribución para ambas especies.Métodos: El material recolectado en campo se recopiló en 2020-2021. Además, se examinaron colecciones de herbarios (CUZ, HSP, HUSA y USM). Para la diagnosis de las especies se utilizaron revisiones taxonómicas, protólogos y análisis de los tipos digitalizados. Para cada especie se realizaron descripciones morfológicas, imágenes y un mapa de distribución. Se elaboró una clave dicotómica con los caracteres diagnósticos de las especies de Jarava presentes en Perú.Resultados clave: Se presenta Jarava disticha como una nueva combinación. La forma de ramificación de los culmos, ancho de las glumas inferiores y el tamaño e indumento de los antecios son los principales caracteres taxonómicos que permiten delimitar entre J. disticha y J. pachypus. Ambas especies presentan una distribución en las formaciones de lomas del sur de Perú.Conclusiones: Con la nueva combinación realizada, en Perú se encuentran seis especies de Jarava. Jarava disticha se distribuye en los departamentos de Ica y Arequipa, y J. pachypus se considera endémica del sur de Arequipa.
Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources–Based Support System for Predicting Delivery Type: Model Development and Evaluation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Coutinho-Almeida João , Cardoso Alexandrina , Cruz-Correia Ricardo , Pereira-Rodrigues Pedro
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The escalating prevalence of cesarean delivery globally poses significant health impacts on mothers and newborns. Despite this trend, the underlying reasons for increased cesarean delivery rates, which have risen to 36.3% in Portugal as of 2020, remain unclear. This study delves into these issues within the Portuguese health care context, where national efforts are underway to reduce cesarean delivery occurrences.

OBJECTIVE

This paper aims to introduce a machine learning, algorithm-based support system designed to assist clinical teams in identifying potentially unnecessary cesarean deliveries. Key objectives include developing clinical decision support systems for cesarean deliveries using interoperability standards, identifying predictive factors influencing delivery type, assessing the economic impact of implementing this tool, and comparing system outputs with clinicians’ decisions.

METHODS

This study used retrospective data collected from 9 public Portuguese hospitals, encompassing maternal and fetal data and delivery methods from 2019 to 2020. We used various machine learning algorithms for model development, with light gradient-boosting machine (LightGBM) selected for deployment due to its efficiency. The model’s performance was compared with clinician assessments through questionnaires. Additionally, an economic simulation was conducted to evaluate the financial impact on Portuguese public hospitals.

RESULTS

The deployed model, based on LightGBM, achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 88%. In the trial deployment phase at a single hospital, 3.8% (123/3231) of cases triggered alarms for potentially unnecessary cesarean deliveries. Financial simulation results indicated potential benefits for 30% (15/48) of Portuguese public hospitals with the implementation of our tool. However, this study acknowledges biases in the model, such as combining different vaginal delivery types and focusing on potentially unwarranted cesarean deliveries.

CONCLUSIONS

This study presents a promising system capable of identifying potentially incorrect cesarean delivery decisions, with potentially positive implications for medical practice and health care economics. However, it also highlights the challenges and considerations necessary for real-world application, including further evaluation of clinical decision-making impacts and understanding the diverse reasons behind delivery type choices. This study underscores the need for careful implementation and further robust analysis to realize the full potential and real-world applicability of such clinical support systems.
Evaluating the Bias in Hospital Data: Automatic Preprocessing of Patient Pathways Algorithm Development and Validation Study (Preprint)
Authors: Uhl Laura , Augusto Vincent , Dalmas Benjamin , Alexandre Youenn , Bercelli Paolo , Jardinaud Fanny , Aloui Saber
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The optimization of patient care pathways is crucial for hospital managers in the context of a scarcity of medical resources. Assuming unlimited capacities, the pathway of a patient would only be governed by pure medical logic to meet at best the patient’s needs. However, logistical limitations (eg, resources such as inpatient beds) are often associated with delayed treatments and may ultimately affect patient pathways. This is especially true for unscheduled patients—when a patient in the emergency department needs to be admitted to another medical unit without disturbing the flow of planned hospitalizations.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, we proposed a new framework to automatically detect activities in patient pathways that may be unrelated to patients’ needs but rather induced by logistical limitations.

METHODS

The scientific contribution lies in a method that transforms a database of historical pathways with bias into 2 databases: a labeled pathway database where each activity is labeled as relevant (related to a patient’s needs) or irrelevant (induced by logistical limitations) and a corrected pathway database where each activity corresponds to the activity that would occur assuming unlimited resources. The labeling algorithm was assessed through medical expertise. In total, 2 case studies quantified the impact of our method of preprocessing health care data using process mining and discrete event simulation.

RESULTS

Focusing on unscheduled patient pathways, we collected data covering 12 months of activity at the Groupe Hospitalier Bretagne Sud in France. Our algorithm had 87% accuracy and demonstrated its usefulness for preprocessing traces and obtaining a clean database. The 2 case studies showed the importance of our preprocessing step before any analysis. The process graphs of the processed data had, on average, 40% (SD 10%) fewer variants than the raw data. The simulation revealed that 30% of the medical units had >1 bed difference in capacity between the processed and raw data.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient pathway data reflect the actual activity of hospitals that is governed by medical requirements and logistical limitations. Before using these data, these limitations should be identified and corrected. We anticipate that our approach can be generalized to obtain unbiased analyses of patient pathways for other hospitals.
Association Between Social Networking Sites Use and Psychological Distress among Fathers, Mothers with Infants: Moderating Effects of Loneliness, Parenting Anxiety (Preprint)
Authors: Onishi Ryuta
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

In the digital age, social networking sites (SNS) have revolutionized the approach to parenting. These platforms, widely used to access parenting information and support, have both positive and negative effects on parents, with negative effects potentially increasing for those experiencing loneliness or anxiety.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to examine the relationship between SNS use and psychological distress among parents of young children, controlling for the moderating effects of loneliness and parenting anxiety. We hypothesized that higher SNS use correlates to greater psychological distress, particularly among parents with elevated levels of loneliness or parenting anxiety.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey design using a closed online questionnaire was used. Participants included 429 parents (205 mothers and 224 fathers) of children aged 0–3 recruited through an online survey company in Japan. The survey included measures of psychological distress, loneliness, parenting anxiety, frequency of SNS use for parenting, and covariates. Analytical models to explain psychological distress included interactions between loneliness or parenting anxiety and SNS use, individually for fathers and mothers.

RESULTS

For mothers, a significant interaction effect was determined only between parenting anxiety and SNS use (b = 0.247, SE = 0.091, P = 0.008). Meanwhile, for fathers, significant interaction effects were observed for both loneliness (b = 0.324, SE = 0.127, P = 0.012) and parenting anxiety (b = 0.144, SE = 0.069, P = 0.038) with SNS use. A simple slope analysis for mothers indicated that SNS use was related to psychological distress only at higher levels of parenting anxiety (b = 0.304, SE = 0.090, β = 0.317, P < 0.001). Among fathers, SNS use was associated with psychological distress at higher levels of either parenting anxiety (b = 0.330, SE = 0.069, β = 0.346, P < 0.001) or loneliness (b = 0.390, SE = 0.098, β = 0.409, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The study concludes that the relationship between SNS use and psychological distress among parents of young children is moderated by loneliness and parenting anxiety. The findings highlight the need for tailored approaches to help parents manage SNS use, particularly focusing on those with higher levels of loneliness and parenting anxiety. It is imperative for health professionals to provide nuanced guidance to parents on SNS use, considering individual psychological factors and potential gender differences in the impact of SNS on mental well-being.