bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection and evaluation of positive acute phase reactant protein markers in neonates and adults with sepsis
Authors: Mahdi Abed Alamer Azhar , Saeed Abbas Israa , Abd ALrasul Hnewa Riadh
Published: January 2024

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Introduction and Aim: Septicemia is a clinical condition caused due to bacterial infection of the blood. Septicemia leading to sepsis could be life-threatening leading to tissue damage, organ failure, and death. The current study aimed to determine the impact of various biomarkers on patients suffering from sepsis, including Serum amyloid A, C-reactive protein, HS- Troponin, fibrinogen, haptoglobin and alpha1-antitrypsin, as well as identify the common bacterial types associated in septic patients.
         
Materials and Methods: This case-control study conducted during October 2022 to May 2023 involved 100 participants that were divided into groups which included patients diagnosed with septicemia due to bacteria (Group A), patients with septicemia with non-bacterial infection (Group B) and healthy individuals as controls (Group C).
 
Results: Serum amyloid A, C-reactive protein, HS-Troponin, Fibrinogen, Haptoglobin, and Alpha-1 antitrypsin levels in neonates and adults with sepsis were found to be elevated when compared to healthy individuals. No significant difference was observed for these parameters between Group A patients (positive for blood culture) and Group B patients (negative for blood culture) among neonates and adult sepsis patients.
 
Conclusion: Neonates and adult sepsis patients exhibited higher levels of serum amyloid A, C-reactive protein, HS-Troponin, fibrinogen, hemoglobin, and Alpha-1 antitrypsin in comparison to healthy controls. Hence, these biochemical parameters could be used as biomarkers to assess a patient's level of sepsis for further therapeutic action.
Assessment of diastolic dysfunction in controlled and uncontrolled hypertensive patients: A prospective observational study
Authors: Lakshmi Divya , Govindaraj Ashok , Jenish Beautlin Abishkauf
Published: January 2024

Introduction and Aim: Hypertension is a significant risk factors for CVS events on its own, and resulting DD. The aim of the study is to demonstrate the effect of hypertension on the LV diastolic dysfunction in controlled and uncontrolled hypertensive patients which helps to predict the CVS mortality.
 
Materials and Methods: The present study included 210 Hypertensive patients in which 105 controlled HTN & 105 uncontrolled HTN (age ranged from 30-70 years) with their evidence of Blood Pressure. By using Tissue Doppler imaging E/A, E/E’ and E’ are measured and TTE, the following parameters are assessed: IVRT, IVCT, Pulmonary venous flow and hepatic vein flow. 
 
Results: Diastolic dysfunction and blood pressure were positively correlated, with degree of diastolic dysfunction increasing along with blood pressure levels. Diastolic dysfunction and controlled hypertension were not correlated, although moderate and severe hypertension and diastolic dysfunction had a direct association.
 
Conclusion: In the uncontrolled hypertensive groups compared to the controlled hypertensive groups, the diastolic dysfunction was considerably and progressively higher, according to this study. To obtain population-based data on diastolic dysfunction and other confounding factors in our environment, irrespective of blood pressure levels, more research with a greater number of patients is advised.
Association of vitamin D deficiency with demographic, metabolic and sex hormone levels in polycystic ovarian syndrome
Authors: B.M. Vijayalaxmi , Manjeera Lakshmi , Hegde Pravesh , Swetha D’Souza Prima , D’Souza Neevan , Kumar Shetty Prasanna , Kumari N. Suchetha
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a most prevalent endocrine disorder characterized by various clinical manifestations, including menstrual irregularities, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries. Severe vitamin D deficiency is more frequent in women with PCOS than in general females and has been associated with various metabolic disorders, comprising insulin resistance, blood pressure, obesity, and menstrual abnormalities. This study aimed to investigate the correlation among deficiency of vitamin D and demographic characteristics, metabolic parameters, and sex hormone levels of PCOS women from southern India. 
 
Materials and Methods: A case-control study involving 240 individuals comprised 120 women meeting the Rotterdam criteria for PCOS and 120 healthy age-matched controls. Various parameters, including anthropometric data, fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels, hormone levels, and vitamin D status, were assessed.
 
Results: The results showed that participants with PCOS had significant increases in BMI, FBS, insulin, and HOMAIR levels. Triglyceride levels were significantly higher according to the lipid profile when compared to the control group, additional hormonal testing on PCOS patients revealed significantly higher levels of the LH: FSH ratio and testosterone. Women with PCOS showed significant low levels of 25(OH) D when compared to healthy women.
 
Conclusion: Our findings revealed an association between low levels of 25(OH)D and the manifestation of symptoms related to metabolic syndrome in PCOS women. Therefore, vitamin D supplementation may have the potential to improve the underlying pathophysiology of PCOS.
In vitro cytogenetic and cytotoxic activity of Xanthium strumarium plant extract on human breast cancer cell line
Authors: Mohammed Khalaf Hadeel , Hamed Alani Enas , Mohammed Al-Ezzy Ruqaya
Published: January 2024

Introduction and Aim: The enormous greater parts of people rely on conventional medicinal plants for their everyday health care desires. One of these medicinal plants is Xanthium strumarium. The purpose of this study was to assess the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of X. strumarium extract as well as test its activity against micronucleus formation and cytotoxicity against breast cancer cell lines.
 
Materials and Methods: An estimation was made of the total flavonoid antioxidant content in the ethanolic extract of X. strumarium. The plant extract was assessed for its DPPH radical scavenging activity and compared to the conventional vitamin C. The plant extract's cytotoxicity was evaluated by conducting an MTT test on MCF-7 cancer cell lines.
 
Results: The total flavonoid content estimated in the plant extract was 215.63± 5.85 µg/ml. The DPPH results varied depending on concentration and found to be significantly reduced at 100 and 200 mg/ml of the extract in comparison to vitamin C. In contrast to the negative control, the micronucleus generation in the blood of breast cancer patients was reduced, notably at 200 mg\ml concentration of plant to (0.0065 ± 0.0006 mn\cell), when it was higher in untreated culture (0.0230 ± 0.0013 mn\cell). When plant concentration was increased (from 6.25 to 200 µg/ml), there was a drop in cell viability (86.27± 0.70% to 50.04± 3.32%).
 
Conclusion: This research indicates that the ethanolic extract of X. strumarium exhibits antioxidant capabilities and has the capability to cause cytotoxic effects on breast cancer cells. These findings were the result of an investigation that was conducted.
Association between TPO gene polymorphisms with susceptibility to hyperthyroidism
Authors: T. AL-Mofarji Sarah , M. Jasim Hameed , B. Mohammed Sanad
Published: January 2024

Introduction and Aim: Hyperthyroidism is a disorder characterized by excessively high amounts of tri-iodothyronine and thyroxine in the bloodstream. TPO is a thyroid-specific antigen. TPO gene mutations affect thyroid hormone synthesis, causing full or partial iodide organification abnormalities. In this study, we aimed to look at the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the TPO gene and find possible relation of these SNPs to the development or prognosis of hyperthyroidism.
 
Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from hyperthyroid patients (n=75) and healthy individuals (n=25). The concentration of triiodothyronine (T3), Tetra-iodothyronine (T4), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were estimated in all samples. The autoantibodies TPOAbs and TR-Ab levels were measured using the ELISA assay. The extracted genomic DNA from blood of participants was investigated for polymorphism in the SNPs rs1126799, rs1126797, and rs732609 within the TPO gene. Statistical methods were used to evaluate the association between the TPO SNPs studied to hyperthyroidism susceptibility.
 
Results: No significant correlation was observed between the SNPs studied and prognosis of hyperthyroidism. However, it was found that hyperthyroid patients carrying the TPO rs1126799 T allele (CT + CC genotypes) had significantly higher serum levels of TPOAb compared to those with the TT genotype (P<0.01). Similarly, hyperthyroid patients with the TPO rs1126797 C allele (CT + TT genotypes) and TPO rs732609 A allele (CA + AA genotypes) exhibited significantly elevated levels of TPOAbs compared to individuals with the CC genotype and AA genotype, respectively (P<0.01).
 
Conclusion: There was no correlation between the TPO rs1126799, rs1126797, and rs732609 polymorphisms with the occurrence of hyperthyroidism in the Iraqi population. However, TPO rs2071400 and rs2048722 polymorphisms were found to be correlated to serum levels of TPOAb.
Evaluation of blood mercury levels and a few biochemical marker levels in obese car painters of Iraq
Authors: K. Jawad Nada , T. Numan Ahmad , K. Hanoon Yossra
Published: January 2024

Introduction and Aim: A greater total blood mercury level is associated with obesity; the present study sought to evaluate the association between blood mercury levels and other biological indicators related to.
 
Materials and Methods: The study population included 25 car painters and 25 healthy participants. The height and weight of each participant was recorded and their BMI calculated. Blood drawn from each participant was assessed for their serum levels of mercury and a few other biochemical markers such as TNF-alpha, MDA, Visvatin, Insulin, and Vitamin-D. The data obtained was subjected to statistical analysis.
 
Results: Compared to healthy controls, the mean levels of mercury in the blood as well as other biochemical indicators were found to be greater. On the other hand, the amount of vitamin D was discovered to be lower than average in the control group. A higher quantity of mercury in the blood was shown to be associated with abdominal obesity, as indicated by the findings.
 
Conclusion: Obesity increases the risk of mercury toxicity in car painters and is linked to higher TNF-alpha, visfatin, and MDA levels, as well as lower vitamin D levels.
Treatment of immune thrombocytopenia in adults in Kyrgyzstan: a two-center retrospective observational study
Authors: Zhanybek kyzy Aigerim , Abdyrakhmanova Dzhiparkul , Bolzhirova Emiliia , Esengeldi kyzy Aizhamal , Musaeva Begaiym , Esengeldieva Orozgul , Kundashev Ulan , Mamatov Sagynali
Published: January 2024

Introduction and Aim: Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an acquired thrombocytopenia characterized by a platelet count of 100x109/l and caused by immune-mediated destruction of platelets. This study aimed to assess the efficacy and tolerability of the first and subsequent lines of therapy for adult patients with ITP.
 
Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 172 patients with ITP and a mean age of 44.2±5.71 years at the time of diagnosis and/or who were treated for ITP at participating centers such as south and republican centers in Kyrgyzstan during the study period from 2015–2022. Analyzing patient medical records yielded detailed data on treatment strategies and results.
 
Results: There was a significant difference in the mean number of platelets between clinical centers (26.2 versus 14.5×109 cells/l, p<0.05), and the mean number of platelets at admission to the hospital was 17.1±1.84×109 cells/l. 113 (65.7%) had primary ITP, and the remaining 59 (34.3%) had secondary ITP. 35.6% of patients with secondary causes were infected (including those with Helicobacter pylori but not others).
 
Conclusion: Patients with adult ITP can be effectively treated with conservative methods in 45.4–77.6% of cases. These treatments include prednisone, dexamethasone, and their combination with intravenous immunoglobulin, rituximab, and azathioprine.
Diosgenin promoted glucose uptake by attenuation of high glucose induced blockade of PI3K-Akt-GLUT4 pathway and ER stress
Authors: Prajapath Ramesh , Kumar Sali Veeresh , Bharadwaj R. Meenakshi , R. Malarvizhi , R. Vasanthi Hannah
Published: January 2024

Introduction and Aim: Hyperglycemia is the signature style of type II diabetes (T2D) which impairs pathways of insulin signaling and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. Diosgenin is a popular saponin known for its antidiabetic and anti-obesity properties predominantly found in Dioscorea species. However, the mechanism of hypoglycemic effects related to pathways of ER stress, insulin signaling, and uptake of glucose in the liver gained less attention. Accordingly, this study was aimed to assess the effect of Diosgenin on the uptake of glucose, insulin signaling as well as on ER stress in human HepG2 cells cultured in hyperglycemic or high glucose (HG) condition.
 
Materials and Methods: Viability studies on HepG2 cells, assay for studying the uptake and consumption of glucose, gene expression, and docking studies were carried out.
 
Results: The treatment with Diosgenin was found to elevate the uptake as well as consumption of glucose in HepG2 cells under hyperglycemic conditions. Diosgenin prevented inactivation of the PI3K Akt pathway as well as GLUT4 levels induced by high glucose. Furthermore, endoplasmic reticulum stress elements viz., inositol requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1), protein kinase like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK), C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) and sXBP1 were reduced by diosgenin treatment provoked by high glucose returning to normal ER homeostasis. Moreover, the effects are supported by the binding efficiency of diosgenin with insulin signaling proteins using bioinformatic tools.
 
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that diosgenin elevated the uptake of glucose by hindering the inactivation of PI3K Akt GLUT4 pathway and ER stress caused by high glucose, thus, preventing further hepatic dysfunction.
ОХОРОНА НЕМАТЕРІАЛЬНОЇ КУЛЬТУРНОЇ СПАДЩИНИ ЯК СКЛАДОВА ЗАХИСТУ ПРАВ ЛЮДИНИ
Authors: Першина Наталія Геннадіївна
Published: January 2024

У статті досліджується проблема охорони нематеріальної культурної спадщини в контексті захисту прав людини. Обгрунтовано взаємозв’язок між нематеріальною культурною спадщиною і правами людини, зокрема те, що саме особливість нематеріальної культурної спадщини як фундаментального елемента ідентичності її творців і носіїв передбачає відповідні наслідки з точки зору захисту культурних прав людини. Показано, що імплементація положень Міжнародного пакту про громадянські і політичні права вимагає, щоб колективні права громади, членами якої є відповідні особи, були належним чином захищені. Захист нематеріальної культурної спадщини є важливою передумовою для забезпечення ефективності певних прав людини на користь відповідних осіб та громад. З практичної точки зору, це означає вимогу до держав забезпечити таким особам і громадам належний доступ до своєї нематеріальної культурної спадщини та участь в управлінні нею. Показано, що це означає зобов’язання не лише уникати прямого втручання державних посадових осіб у користування громадами та особами, яких це стосується, їхньою нематеріальною спадщиною, але й створювати належні умови для забезпечення конкретного та ефективного використання спадщини такими громадами та особами, у світлі їхніх конкретних очікувань і потреб. На думку авторки, державна політика у сфері охорони нематеріальної культурної спадщини має недостатньо інструментів видається недостатньою для забезпечення відповідного захисту особливостей нематеріальної спадщини. Визначено, що міжнародне співтовариство не може терпіти культурні прояви, що перетворюються на ефекти, які є абсолютно неприйнятними у світлі першорядної цінності людської гідності. На думку авторки, дуже важливим є, щоб будь-який прояв нематеріальної культурної спадщини був сумісний з кількома основними правовими нормами, які відображають цінності, фундаментальна характеристика яких переважає навіть значення культурного розмаїття. Необхідно, зокрема, щоб будь-яке культурне самовираження відповідало нормам про права людини. Однак це не означає, що жодні відступи від міжнародно визнаних прав людини не можуть бути прийняті в ім’я культурного розмаїття.
ПРО МЕХАНІЗМИ ФОРМУВАННЯ СУЇЦИДАЛЬНОЇ ПОВЕДІНКИ Й МОЖЛИВОСТЯХ ЇЇ ПРЕДИКЦІЇ З УРАХУВАННЯМ ОСОБИСТІСНИХ ДОМІНАНТ
Authors: Arshava Iryna Fedorivna , Baratynska Anastasiia Volodymyrivna
Published: January 2024

Через ситуацію повномасштабного вторгнення країни – агресора на територію нашої держави, українське суспільство більше року проживає в екстремальних умовах, зазнаючи страшних наслідків війни – ситуацію втрати, окупацію територій, руйнування цілих міст та селищ, вимушене переселення; в свою чергу, постійні артобстріли, бомбардування, вибухи, звуки сирени, затяжні блекаути та багато чого іншого стали реаліями сьогодення. Тривожність, хронічний стрес, прояви депресивних станів, страх за близьких та рідних та за майбутнє в цілому є характерним для психологічного стану українського населення різних вікових категорій, серед яких особливе місце посідають підлітки. Оскільки підлітковий вік є найскладнішим та найсуперечливішим періодом онтогенетичного розвитку, знання про механізми формування суїцидальної поведінки серед підлітків та можливості її предикції з урахуванням особистісних домінант є не просто вкрай важливими, а необхідними для збереження психічного і фізичного здоров’я зростаючого покоління України. За допомогою використання таких психодіагностичних методик, як «Тест на виявлення суїцидального ризику СР-45» (П.І.Юнацкевич); «Самооцінка психічних станів» (Г. Айзенк); «П’ятифакторний особистісний опитувальник (Р. МакКрає – П. Коста); «Опитувальник депресивності» (А. Бек); «Методика діагностики соціально – психологічної адаптації» (К. Роджерс, Р. Даймонд) в ході емпіричного дослідження встановлено: статистично значущий позитивний кореляційний зв’язок між показниками тривожності; фрустрації та рівнем суїцидального ризику підлітків; статистично значущий негативний кореляційний зв’язок між показниками екстраверсії; емоційної стійкості та рівнем суїцидального ризику. Важливо зазначити, що існує негативний статистично підтверджений кореляційний зв’язок між показниками адаптації, самоприйняття, емоційним комфортом та рівнем суїцидального ризику в підлітковому віці і, відповідно, статистично підтверджений позитивний кореляційний зв’язок між рівнем суїцидального ризику та такими шкалами, як неприйняття себе та емоційний дискомфорт підлітків. Виявлено, що такий особистісний показник як самоконтроль разом з наявністю так званого емоційного комфорту, мають певний вплив на рівень формування суїцидальної поведінки у підлітковому віці.
Determinants, Awareness, and Perceptions of COVID-19 Vaccination among Youth in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Mutalemwa Darlene K. , Issa Faisal , Mwashambwa Misheck G.
Published: January 2024

The global community has seen significant negative impacts as a result of the COVID-19  pandemic. The primary objective of this study was to assess the perceptions, awareness, and determinants among young individuals concerning the COVID-19  vaccine. The research employed a cross-sectional approach and was carried out using internet platforms within the Dar es Salaam region of Tanzania, spanning from December 2021 to December 2022. The study's sample consisted of 435 individuals who were classified as young people. The data was collected through the utilization of questionnaires developed by Google Forms, which were thereafter distributed among participants via WhatsApp groups. The programme utilized for data cleaning and analysis was STATA 15.1. Categorical variables were summarised using descriptive statistics, including frequency distribution tables, pie charts, and bar charts. The study employed inferential statistics, namely the Chi-square test, to assess the association between the COVID-19  immunization status and several socioeconomic demographic characteristics, perceived factors, and awareness-related parameters. Results achieving a significance level of 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Based on these findings, it was recommended that decision makers should continue directing endeavors focused on increasing the acceptance of COVID-19  vaccinations and minimizing the wastage of vaccines. Also youths are encouraged to take vaccines for fortification of their health hence reach intended purpose and save funds which would have been used in managing other health, social and economic challenges.
Impact of acidity and surface-modulated acid dissociation on cloud response to organic aerosol
Authors: Sengupta Gargi , Zheng Minjie , Prisle Nønne L.
Published: January 2024

Abstract. Acid dissociation of the organic aerosol fraction has the potential to impact cloud-activating properties by altering aqueous-phase H+ concentrations and water activity but is currently overlooked in most atmospheric aerosol models. We implemented a simple representation of organic acid dissociation in the aerosol–chemistry–climate box model ECHAM6.3–HAM2.3 and investigated the impact on aerosol-forming aqueous sulfur chemistry, cloud droplet number concentrations, and the shortwave radiative effect. Many atmospheric organic acids are also surface-active and may be strongly adsorbed at the surface of small aqueous droplets. The degree of dissociation has recently been observed for several atmospheric surface-active organics with Brönsted acid character to be significantly shifted in the surface, compared to the bulk aqueous solution. In addition to the well-known bulk acidity, we therefore introduced an empirical account of this surface-modulated dissociation to further explore the potential impact on aerosol climate effects. Malonic acid and decanoic acid were used as proxies for atmospheric organic aerosols of different surface-active and acid strengths. Both acids were found to yield sufficient hydrogen ion concentrations from dissociation in an aqueous droplet population to strongly influence aqueous aerosol sulfur chemistry, leading to enhanced cloud droplet number concentrations and a cooling shortwave radiative effect. Further considering the surface modulation of organic acid dissociation, the impact on cloud microphysics was smaller than according to the well-known bulk solution acidity but still significant. Our results show that organic aerosol acid dissociation can significantly influence predictions of aerosol and cloud droplet formation and aerosol–cloud–climate effects and that, even for a well-known bulk solution phenomenon such as acidity, it may be important to also consider the specific influence of surface effects when surface-active acids comprise a significant fraction of the total organic aerosol mass.
Variations of the atmospheric polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon concentrations, sources, and health risk and the direct medical costs of lung cancer around the Bohai Sea against a background of pollution prevention and control in China
Authors: Ma Wenwen , Sun Rong , Wang Xiaoping , Zong Zheng , Zhao Shizhen , Sun Zeyu , Tian Chongguo , Tang Jianhui , Cui Song , Li Jun , Zhang Gan
Published: January 2024

Abstract. The Bohai Sea (BS) region, an area of China that is severely polluted with atmospheric polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), has received wide attention in recent decades. To characterize the variations of the concentrations and sources of PAHs from June 2014 to May 2019, 15 PAH congeners (Σ15PAHs) were measured in atmospheric samples (N = 228) collected at 12 sites around the BS, and the health risk and direct medical costs associated with lung cancer caused by exposure to PAHs were also estimated. The annual daily average concentration of Σ15PAHs was 56.78 ± 4.75 ng m−3, which was dominated by low molecular weight PAHs (LMW-PAHs) containing three rings (58.7 ± 7.8 %). During the 5-year sampling period, the atmospheric Σ15PAHs concentration reduced by 17.5 % for the whole BS region, with an especially large drop of 51.7 % observed in the tightly controlled area of Tianjin (TJ), which was mainly due to a decrease in the concentration of high molecular weight PAHs (HMW-PAHs) containing five or six rings. Generally, the concentration of Σ15PAHs was highest in winter and lowest in summer, which can mainly be attributed to the change in LMW-PAH concentration. Based on the positive matrix factorization (PMF) model, PAHs in the BS region were mainly ascribed to coal combustion and biomass burning. The PAH contributions of coal combustion and motor vehicles showed different trends for the BS region (PAHs from coal combustion rose by 7.2 % and PAHs from motor vehicles fell by 22.4 %) and for TJ (PAHs from coal combustion fell by 12.6 % and PAHs from motor vehicles rose by 6.9 %). The incidence of lung cancer (ILCR) caused by exposure to atmospheric PAHs decreased by 74.1 % and 91.6 % from 2014 to 2018 in the BS region and in TJ, respectively. This was mainly due to the decrease in the concentration of highly toxic HMW-PAHs and was reflected in USD 10.7 million of savings in direct medical costs of lung cancer caused by exposure to PAHs, which represent a decrease of 46.1 % compared to the corresponding costs before air pollution prevention and control was implemented around the BS. There was an even higher reduction in medical costs of 54.5 % in TJ. Hence, this study proves that implementing pollution prevention and control not only effectively reduced the concentration of pollutants and the risks caused by them, but it also significantly reduced the medical costs of diseases caused by the corresponding exposure.
Assessing atmospheric gravity wave spectra in the presence of observational gaps
Authors: Mossad Mohamed , Strelnikova Irina , Wing Robin , Baumgarten Gerd
Published: January 2024

Abstract. We present a thorough investigation into the accuracy and reliability of gravity wave (GW) spectral estimation methods when dealing with observational gaps. GWs have a significant impact on atmospheric dynamics, exerting influence over weather and climate patterns. However, empirical atmospheric measurements often suffer from data gaps caused by various factors, leading to biased estimations of the spectral power-law exponent (slope) β. This exponent describes how the energy of GWs changes with frequency over a defined range of GW scales. In this study, we meticulously evaluate three commonly employed estimation methods: the fast Fourier transform (FFT), generalized Lomb–Scargle periodogram (GLS), and Haar structure function (HSF). We assess their performance using time series of synthetic observational data with varying levels of complexity, ranging from a signal with one frequency to a number of superposed sinusoids with randomly distributed wave parameters. By providing a comprehensive analysis of the advantages and limitations of these methods, our aim is to provide a valuable roadmap for selecting the most suitable approach for accurate estimations of β from sparse observational datasets.
GEO4PALM v1.1: an open-source geospatial data processing toolkit for the PALM model system
Authors: Lin Dongqi , Zhang Jiawei , Khan Basit , Katurji Marwan , Revell Laura E.
Published: January 2024

Abstract. A geospatial data processing tool, GEO4PALM, has been developed to generate geospatial static input for the Parallelized Large-Eddy Simulation (PALM) model system. PALM is a community-driven large-eddy simulation model for atmospheric and environmental research. Throughout PALM's 20-year development, research interests have been increasing in its application to realistic conditions, especially for urban areas. For such applications, geospatial static input is essential. Although abundant geospatial data are accessible worldwide, geospatial data availability and quality are highly variable and inconsistent. Currently, the geospatial static input generation tools in the PALM community heavily rely on users for data acquisition and pre-processing. New PALM users face large obstacles, including significant time commitments, to gain the knowledge needed to be able to pre-process geospatial data for PALM. Expertise beyond atmospheric and environmental research is frequently needed to understand the data sets required by PALM. Here, we present GEO4PALM, which is a free and open-source tool. GEO4PALM helps users generate PALM static input files with a simple, homogenised, and standardised process. GEO4PALM is compatible with geospatial data obtained from any source, provided that the data sets comply with standard geo-information formats. Users can either provide existing geospatial data sets or use the embedded data interfaces to download geo-information data from free online sources for any global geographic area of interest. All online data sets incorporated in GEO4PALM are globally available, with several data sets having the finest resolution of 1 m. In addition, GEO4PALM provides a graphical user interface (GUI) for PALM domain configuration and visualisation. Two application examples demonstrate successful PALM simulations driven by geospatial input generated by GEO4PALM using different geospatial data sources for Berlin, Germany, and Ōtautahi / Christchurch, New Zealand. GEO4PALM provides an easy and efficient way for PALM users to configure and conduct PALM simulations for applications and investigations such as urban heat island effects, air pollution dispersion, renewable energy resourcing, and weather-related hazard forecasting. The wide applicability of GEO4PALM makes PALM more accessible to a wider user base in the scientific community.
Simulating sub-hourly rainfall data for current and future periods using two statistical disaggregation models: case studies from Germany and South Korea
Authors: Vorobevskii Ivan , Park Jeongha , Kim Dongkyun , Barfus Klemens , Kronenberg Rico
Published: January 2024

Abstract. The simulation of fast-reacting hydrological systems often requires sub-hourly precipitation data to develop appropriate climate adaptation strategies and tools, i.e. upgrading drainage systems and reducing flood risks. However, these sub-hourly data are typically not provided by measurements and atmospheric models, and many statistical disaggregation tools are applicable only up to an hourly resolution. Here, two different models for the disaggregation of precipitation data from a daily to sub-hourly scale are presented. The first one is a conditional disaggregation model based on first-order Markov chains and copulas (WayDown) that keeps the input daily precipitation sums consistent within disaggregated time series. The second one is an unconditional rain generation model based on a double Poisson process (LetItRain) that does not reproduce the input daily values but rather generates time series with consistent rainfall statistics. Both approaches aim to reproduce observed precipitation statistics over different timescales. The developed models were validated using 10 min radar data representing 10 climate stations in Germany and South Korea; thus, they cover various climate zones and precipitation systems. Various statistics were compared, including the mean, variance, autocorrelation, transition probabilities, and proportion of wet period. Additionally, extremes were examined, including the frequencies of different thresholds, extreme quantiles, and annual maxima. To account for the model uncertainties, 1000-year-equivalent ensembles were generated by both models for each study site. While both models successfully reproduced the observed statistics, WayDown was better (than LetItRain) at reproducing the ensemble median, showing strength with respect to precisely refining the coarse input data. In contrast, LetItRain produced rainfall with a greater ensemble variability, thereby capturing a variety of scenarios that may happen in reality. Both methods reproduced extremes in a similar manner: overestimation until a certain threshold of rainfall and underestimation thereafter. Finally, the models were applied to climate projection data. The change factors for various statistics and extremes were computed and compared between historical (radar) information and the climate projections at a daily and 10 min scale. Both methods showed similar results for the respective stations and Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) scenarios. Several consistent trends, jointly confirmed by disaggregated and daily data, were found for the mean, variance, autocorrelation, and proportion of wet periods. Further, they presented similar behaviour with respect to annual maxima for the majority of the stations for both RCP scenarios in comparison to the daily scale (i.e. a similar systematic underestimation).
A modular library for fast prototyping of solution-state nuclear magnetic resonance experiments
Authors: Górka Michał , Koźmiński Wiktor
Published: January 2024

Abstract. We present a framework library (Modular Elements, ME) for the development of pulse sequences for Bruker spectrometers. It implements a two-level abstraction approach–the lower level comprises basic functional elements of pulse sequences and the higher one often-reused blocks comprising multiple spin echoes. The low-level abstractions reduce code duplication between variants of experiments such as hard-pulse and selective variants of individual NMR experiments. The high-level modules enable further reuse of pulse program code and aid in the construction of complex experiments. We show the library’s functionality by presenting pulse programs that can be switched between standard and TROSY variants, hard and shaped pulses and can seamlessly incorporate real-time homodecoupling. Adaptability is further demonstrated in a configurable 4D NOESY program.
The communication strategy for the release of the first European Seismic Risk Model and the updated European Seismic Hazard Model
Authors: Dallo Irina , Marti Michèle , Valenzuela Nadja , Crowley Helen , Dabbeek Jamal , Danciu Laurentiu , Zaugg Simone , Cotton Fabrice , Giardini Domenico , Pinho Rui , Schneider John F. , Beauval Céline , Correia António A. , Ktenidou Olga-Joan , Mäntyniemi Päivi , Pagani Marco , Silva Vitor , Weatherill Graeme , Wiemer Stefan
Published: January 2024

Abstract. To design user-centred and scientifically high-quality outreach products to inform about earthquake-related hazards and the associated risk, a close collaboration between the model developers and communication experts is needed. In this contribution, we present the communication strategy developed to support the public release of the first openly available European Seismic Risk Model and the updated European Seismic Hazard Model. The backbone of the strategy was the communication concept in which the overall vision, communication principles, target audiences (including personas), key messages, and products were defined. To fulfil the end-users' needs, we conducted two user testing surveys: one for the interactive risk map viewer and one for the risk poster with a special emphasis on the European earthquake risk map. To further ensure that the outreach products are not only understandable and attractive for different target groups but also adequate from a scientific point of view, a two-fold feedback mechanism involving experts in the field was implemented. Through a close collaboration with a network of communication specialists from other institutions supporting the release, additional feedback and exchange of knowledge was enabled. Our insights, gained as part of the release process, can support others in developing user-centred products reviewed by experts in the field to inform about hazard and risk models.
Evaluación socioeconómica y de los servicios ecosistémicos en el Parque Regional de las Salinas y Arenales de San Pedro del Pinatar (Murcia, SE España)
Authors: Hernández Marmol Diana , Ballesteros Pelegrín Gustavo A. , Belmonte Serrato Francisco
Published: January 2024

Este espacio protegido ofrece 32 servicios ecosistémicos y se desarrollan diferentes actividades económicas. Con el objetivo de identificar las preferencias y la valoración económica de los agentes que desarrollan su actividad y/o están implicados en su conservación, se elaboraron 6 modelos de encuestas en dos bloques, uno con preguntas concretas a cada tipo de agente y otro con preguntas idénticas, donde clasificar de 1 a 5 los servicios ecosistémicos más relevantes y dar un valor económico. Participaron 2.364 encuestados, el 62,3 % desconocen el concepto de servicio ecosistémico y el 25,3 % estaría dispuesto a pagar 5€ por acceder al Parque. El servicio ecosistémico considerado más importantes fue el “mantenimiento de hábitats donde viven el conjunto de las especies”, de los que un 28,1 % realizarían una aportación de 7,5 €/año para su conservación. Como conclusión este trabajo contribuye a conocer qué valor otorgan las partes interesadas a los servicios que ofrecen los ecosistemas.
La visión de las asociaciones de vecinos/as sobre su función comunitaria y el grado de integración en otras acciones del territorio. Un estudio de caso desde su autovaloración
Authors: Vecina Merchante Carlos , Calvo Sastre Aina
Published: January 2024

Durante el final del franquismo y los primeros años de democracia en España, las asociaciones de vecinos/as (AAVV) adquirieron un papel fundamental en la acción política y social comunitaria, liderando la reivindicación de mejoras en los barrios de la periferia (Castells, 2001; Gutiérrez, 2016). Actualmente, estas asociaciones han perdido parte de su fuerza, coincidiendo con una crisis del modelo tradicional de participación (Alberich, 2022). Esta investigación se focaliza en una zona de Palma (Islas Baleares-España) priorizada por los Servicios Sociales para implementar un proyecto de intervención comunitaria. Desde métodos cualitativos como el grupo de discusión y la entrevista semiestructurada, se pretende identificar el estado en el que se encuentran actualmente las AAVV en ese territorio, conocer su rol social, si existe tejido asociativo, el grado con el que se encuentran integradas en éste y si mantienen un enfoque comunitario tradicional. Los resultados muestran la visión de las AAVV sobre su papel en la comunidad, la actitud de la ciudadanía, su participación y la relación de las AAVV con las instituciones y otros agentes comunitarios. Aparecen diferentes grados de integración en el nuevo contexto comunitario; en el que la diversidad de colectivos, intereses y formas de participación pueden ser una oportunidad para recuperar su protagonismo o, por el contrario, debilitar más aún su papel, debido a la incapacidad de adaptarse a los cambios actuales.
Cuando la rabia femenina no es feminista: Manipulación y polarización discursiva
Authors: Núñez Puente Sonia , Peña Jiménez Palma
Published: January 2024

La propuesta aborda, a partir del análisis cualitativo del discurso, la intervención en sede parlamentaria de la diputada de Vox, Carla Toscano, acerca del presupuesto del Ministerio de Igualdad del Gobierno de España y sobre las consecuencias de la ley del ‘Solo sí es sí’, así como la respuesta de la ministra de Igualdad, Irene Montero. El artículo indaga en el análisis comparativo de la construcción discursiva de la rabia femenina desvelando su posible carácter transformador. Para ello aplicaremos el modelo analítico y teórico articulado en torno al concepto de la competencia de la ira de las mujeres. Este marco teórico nos permitirá incluir una aproximación a la polarización discursiva desarrollada por Teun Van Dijk (2005). Los resultados evidencian que el discurso es polarizado. Por su parte, la construcción discursiva de la rabia femenina no feminista contribuye a fijar una narrativa del feminismo como un movimiento social que vulnera los derechos de los hombres
Under the sea
Authors: Avissar Ariel
Published: January 2024

This video applies a deformative logic to images taken from Disney’s The Little Mermaid (1989), connecting them intertextually with the film Under the skin (2013), which provides the music for the piece. It thus highlights and accentuates the violent, rageful gender dynamics of The Little Mermaid, reimagining it as a nightmarish scene of body horror and female subjugation.
Pathogenesis and biomarkers of colorectal cancer by epigenetic alteration
Authors: Oh Chang Kyo , Cho Young-Seok
Published: January 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks third in cancer incidence and stands as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. CRC tumorigenesis results from a cumulative set of genetic and epigenetic alterations, disrupting cancer-regulatory processes like cell proliferation, metabolism, angiogenesis, cell death, invasion, and metastasis. Key epigenetic modifications observed in cancers encompass abnormal DNA methylation, atypical histone modifications, and irregularities in noncoding RNAs, such as microRNAs and long noncoding RNAs. The advancement in genomic technologies has positioned these genetic and epigenetic shifts as potential clinical biomarkers for CRC patients. This review concisely covers the fundamental principles of CRC-associated epigenetic changes, and examines in detail their emerging role as biomarkers for early detection, prognosis, and treatment response prediction.
Lise Öğrencilerinin Meslek Seçimi ve Ebelik Mesleğini Seçimine İlişkin Görüşlerinin Belirlenmesi
Authors: ÖCALAN Dilek , ALTUN Selin Nur
Published: January 2024

Amaç: Araştırmada lise dönemindeki genç popülasyonun meslek seçimi ve ebelik mesleğine ilişkin görüşlerinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır.

Gereç ve Yöntemler: Bu Araştırmada lise dönemindeki genç popülasyonun meslek seçimi ve ebelik mesleğine ilişkin görüşlerinin belirlenmesi amaçlanmıştır. Tanımlayıcı tipte olan araştırma, Türkiye’nin kuzeyinde yer alan bir ile bağlı merkez ilçedeki liseye kayıtlı olan, gönüllü 307 öğrenci ile yürütülmüştür. Veriler, “Öğrenci Görüşü Veri Toplama Formu” ile yüz yüze görüşme yöntemiyle araştırmacılar tarafından toplanmıştır.

Bulgular: Öğrencilerin %39.9’u gelecek için kariyer planında kararsızdır. Ebelik için; katılımcıların %70.2’si yetenekli olmadığını, %67’si ilgisinin olmadığını, %52.6’sı kendisi için uygun olmadığını, %42.5’i çok fazla sorumluluğu olduğunu, %36’sı çok yorucu olduğunu, %58.1’i gelecekte ebeliği seçmeyeceğini bildirmiştir. Çalışma bu açıdan kariyer planında kararsız olan ve ebelik mesleğini seçmek istemeyen gençler arasında mesleğin içeriğinin ve avantajlı yönlerinin tanıtılması çok dikkat çekici olabilir.Sonuç: Kadınların jinekolojik muayene esnasında yaşadığı utangaçlık düzeyinin orta derecede olduğu belirlenmiştir. Araştırmadan elde edilen bilgiler ışığında utangaçlık düzeyi yüksek bulunan kadınların zorunlu olmadıkça jinekolojik muayene olmaktan kaçındıkları sonucuna varılabilir.

Anahtar Kelimeler: Meslek seçimi, Ebelik; Lise Öğrencileri
The Effect of Cinnamon Bark Extract (Cinnamomum burmannii) on Blood Glucose Levels in Hyperglycemic Rats
Authors: Delfira Annissa , Alimudin Tofrizal , Rita Rauza Sukma
Published: January 2024

Diabetes mellitus is a disease in the form of a metabolic disorder characterized by blood sugar levels that exceed normal limits. In diabetes, there is an increase in blood sugar (hyperglycemia) which occurs due to abnormalities in insulin secretion by the pancreas. The cinnamon bark plant (Cinnamomum burmannii) is one of the plants that contains antidiabetics. The aim of this research is to determine the effect of cinnamon bark extract on the blood glucose levels of hyperglycemic rats. This research is an experimental research with a Post Test-Only Control Group design using 30 rats divided into five groups, namely K(-) distilled water, K(+) Alloxan induction, then continued administration of cinnamon bark extract (Cinnamomum burmannii) P1 (Dose 100 mg/kgBW), P2 (Dose 200 mg/kgBW) and P3 (Dose 300 mg/kgBW) for 30 days. Checking blood glucose levels using the enzymatic glucose method. The results showed that cinnamon bark extract (Cinnamomum burmannii) had an effect on reducing blood glucose levels (p<0.05).

Keywords: Hyperglycemic, Cinnamon Bark Extract, Antidiabetic
Analysis of Viral Load Factors in HIV/AIDS Patients in Men in Kendari City Hospital
Authors: Dwiyana Tuti , Kusnan Adius , . Asriati
Published: January 2024

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a retrovirus that attacks the body's immune system. Compliance with taking antiretroviral medication is a must in reducing the number of viruses in the blood. The success of antiretroviral treatment can be determined by monitoring therapy, namely by testing the viral load. In the community of Men Who Have Sex with Men (MSM) in Kendari City who are infected with HIV, there are still many who do not comply with taking antiretroviral drugs themselves. This research is intended to analyze factors related to the viral load of HIV/AIDS patients in men and women at the Kendari City Regional Hospital. The research design used was observational analytic with a cross-sectional study approach. The population in this study were all HIV/AIDS sufferers who were undergoing ARV treatment at Kendari City Hospital in the MSM category group, namely 371 people, while the sample was 79 people taken using simple random sampling techniques. The variables studied in this study were adherence to antiretroviral medication, clinical stage, and viral load levels of HIV/AIDS patients. Antiretroviral medication adherence variables were measured using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale 8 questionnaire. Clinical stage variables, and viral load levels were measured based on the doctor's medical records. The research data was then processed and analyzed using the chi-square test and logistic regression, with the help of the SPSS version 25.0 application. The results of the study showed that the variables were adherence to taking medication (p-value = 0.000), and clinical stage (p-value = 0.003), it was concluded that adherence to taking medication, and clinical stage were related to the level of HIV/AIDS patient load in promiscuous men at the Kendari City Regional Hospital.

Keywords: HIV, Men Like Men, Viral Load, Medication Adherence
Implementasi Pengembangan Wakaf Produktif Untuk Pemberdayaan Pendidikan Pesantren Tebuireng Jombang
Authors: Amarudin Amin Awal , Febia Rika Annisa , Widyaningsih Bekti
Published: January 2024

Wakaf memiliki peran penting dan kontribusi positif dalam berbagai bidang khususnya dalam pengembangan pendidikan pesantren. Berdasar  urgensi tema tersebut, penelitian ini berfokus pada pengimplementasian pengembangan wakaf produktif untuk pemberdayaan pendidikan Pesantren Tebuireng, terutama dari segi strategi pengembangan wakaf, mekanismenya, dan peran pengambangan wakaf produktif. Penelitian dengan pendekatan kualitatif ini dilakukan pada bulan Juni 2023, dimana data-datanya diperoleh dengan observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi, sedangkan pengecekan data dilakukan dengan triangulasi data. Hasil riset menunjukkan: Pertama, strategi pengembangan wakaf produktif dalam pemberdayaan pendidikan Pesantren Tebuireng Jombang bertujuan memandirikan pesantren dan mengembangkan sumberdaya manusia sebagai pelaku usaha dengan berbagai aset dan program yang dijalankan dibawah manajemen Badan Wakaf Pesantren Tebuireng. Kedua, mekanisme wakaf produktif dilakukan dengan tahapan yang sistematis, legal dan terstruktur. Ketiga, pengembangan wakaf produktif berperan penting dalam pengembangan dan pensejahteraan pendidikan santri Pesantren Tebuireng. Bentuknya adalah alokasi pemanfaatan wakaf produktif yang diperioritaskan pada pemberdayaan pesantren dan support pendidikan baik pengadaan logistik, penyediaan gedung, sarana prasarana, dan operasional pesantren yang sebagian berasal dari hasil surplus aset-aset wakaf produktif.