bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate-Driven Temporary Displacement of Women and Children in Anambra State, Nigeria: The Causes and Consequences
Authors: Angela Oyilieze Akanwa , N. Joe-Ikechebelu Ngozi , N. Okedo-Alex Ijeoma , J. Okafor Kenebechukwu , A. Omoruyi Fred , Okeke Jennifer , N. Amobi Sophia , C. Enweruzor Angela , E. Obioma Chinonye , I. Izunobi Princess , O. Nwakacha Theresa , B. Oranu Chinenye , I. Anazodo Nora , A. Okeke Chiamaka , E. Ugwuoke Uwa-Abasi , M. Umeh Uche , O. Ogbuefi Emmanuel , T. Echendu Sylvia
Published: July 2022

With increasing periods of extreme wet seasons, low lying geographic position, with socioeconomic, and political factors; some communities in Anambra State, Nigeria experience heightened floods annually resulting in loss of shelter, displacement of people with breakdown of livelihoods, particularly in rural communities worsening their risks and vulnerabilities. In 2012, a major flood event in the state temporarily displaced about 2 million people. In this chapter, we used a community-based adaptation approach to investigate the causes and consequences of climate-related temporary displacement on community members in Ogbaru LGA, Anambra State following flood events. We used global positioning system to obtain the community’s ground control points and gathered our data via field observation, transects walks, focus group discussions, photography, and in-depth interviews. Our findings reveal a heightened magnitude of flood related disasters with decreased socio-economic activities, affecting their health and well-being. Also, the community members have a practice of returning to their land, after flood events, as a local mitigating risk management strategy. For multilevel humanitarian responses at the temporary shelter camps, it becomes imperative to meaningfully engage the community members on the challenging risks and vulnerabilities they experience following climate-driven temporary displacement to inform adaptation and resilience research, policy change and advocacy.
Numerical Investigation of Braided Structure Potential as a Cast for Femur Shaft Fracture
Authors: Ochola Jerry , Conti Michele
Published: July 2022

Femur fractures are repaired using orthopedic implants involving external and internal fixators. Meanwhile, tubular braided structures have not been considered for bone-shaft fracture repair, despite their potential in use as orthopedic casts. This study investigates potential of using bi-axial braided structures as casts for femur diaphysis fracture under bending loads. The braided structure model was developed using a python script while a hollow femur bone shaft was created in a 3D interface using FE Analysis methods in ABAQUS (v17) from a femur bone model rendered using MIMICS from femur bone CT scan. Numerical methods were used to investigate the change in bone shape eccentricity due to bending loads in-terms of load carrying capacity, bone curvature, bending resistance and stresses in the bone shaft. The results portrayed influence of the braided structure in ensuring the stresses due to the bending load are distributed evenly on the femur shaft surface.
Segmented Coil Design Powering the Next Generation of High-efficiency Robust Micro-implants
Authors: Tao Yun , Lemdiasov Rosti , Venkatasubramanian Arun , Wong Marshal
Published: July 2022

The next generation of Micro Active Implantable Medical Devices (M-AIMD) are small (< 1 cc), wireless, as well as battery-less. They are located in different parts of the body ranging from brain computer interface electrode arrays (e.g., Blackrock Neurotech Utah Array) to multi-chamber cardiac pacemakers (e.g., Abbott dual chamber Nanostim device). These devices require efficient charging and powering solutions that are very challenging to design. Such solutions require the careful balancing of multiple design parameters such as size, separation distance, orientation, and regulatory limits for emission and tissue safety. In this article, we introduce unique optimisation metrics for designing efficient transmit and receive coils for near-field magnetics-based charging solutions. We elaborate on how the metrics need to be altered depending on the regulatory limits. We discuss the impact of body tissue loading on transmit and receive coil performance using circuit analysis. We introduce a novel “segmented” transmit coil arrangement. We discuss the physics of segmentation, and we build a full wave simulation model, with practical design procedure, which is verified with measurements. Finally, we compare the near fields with and without tissue loading to show that segmented coils offer significant improvement to the performance and robustness of a wireless power transfer system.
Sabellius libyen, Libye sabellienne ?
Authors: Morales Xavier ,   Instituto Patristico Augustinianum
Published: July 2022

Was Sabellius really a Libyan? Examining contemporary sources and ancient historiography on one of the most enigmatic heretics in the history of dogmas, the article shows that the Libyan origin of Sabellius is unlikely, and that it is an exaggeration to claim that Libya was a Sabellian home in the third century. Eusebius of Caesarea is probably guilty of having identified the adversaries of Dionysius of Alexandria located in Ptolemais as disciples of Sabellius, and the testimony of Origen on the theology of the identification between the Father and Christ is too abstract to deduce that this theology was as widely diffused in the East as it has previously been held.
Cruces Copticæ: sopra alcuni luoghi della versione copta del De anima et resurrectione di Gregorio di Nissa
Authors: Ottobrini Tiziano ,   Instituto Patristico Augustinianum
Published: July 2022

The essay points out some loci in the surviving part of the Coptic translation of De anima et resurrectione, written in Greek by Gregory of Nyssa. It shows how the Coptic text can be useful not only for amending the Greek text but also for understanding better the underlying theology of the Alexandrian Church, which promoted the Coptic translation. In this way, a reading of Gregory’s fragment will be read for the first time using the Coptic version on its own terms and not merely as a translation of Ancient Greek.
An analysis of dealers' influence on the automotive market in the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Jelenković Sanja , Brzaković Aleksandar , Brzaković Stefan
Published: July 2022

In the paper, the dealer influence on the automotive market is researched both from the aspect of the offer and from the aspect of the development of the dealer network itself in the provision of vehicle maintenance and repair services and their contribution to the market development. The determination of the dealer influence on the automotive market is a complex process both from the point of view of the dealer offer in Serbia and from the point of view of the state in which the economy, particularly so the car market, is. Numerous factors with an interwoven and multiplied influence act on the automotive market. The subject matter of the research study represents a cross-sectional study of an empirical character. During the collection of the data, the survey non-standardized research technique was used. For this purpose, a special questionnaire was created. The collected data were processed by means of the applicative SPSS system (Statistical Package for Social Sciences), simultaneously applying descriptive and comparative statistics. The research results have shown that the greater the dealer development degree in Serbia, the stronger their influence on the automotive market in Serbia. Also, the following factors have the greatest influence on car manufacturing and sale in Serbia: the development of the dealer network, per-capita income and macroeconomic stability. Simultaneously, vehicle maintenance and repair services substantially influence the purchase of cars. A fact was established that the performance parameters of a vehicle also influenced the buyer's choice of a vehicle.
Dyslipidaemia and inflammatory markers as the risk predictors for cardiovascular disease in newly diagnosed premenopausal hypothyroid women
Authors: Balamurugan Vaideki , Maradi Ravindra , Joshi Vivek , Shenoy Belle , Goud Manjunatha
Published: July 2022

Background: Hypothyroidism can predispose systolic and diastolic cardiac dysfunction, increased peripheral vascular resistance, endothelial dysfunction, altered coagulopathy, and dyslipidemia resulting in atherosclerosis. Thyroid hormones can influence homocysteine metabolism by regulating the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (M THR). So, this study aimed to compare the markers homocysteine, high sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and Atherogenic Indices (AI) between newly diagnosed hypothyroid and euthyroid premenopausal women. Methods: 80 Female patients between 20 and 45 years were enrolled in this study and were equally divided into cases and controls group. Laboratory tests included: i) Serum T3, T4, TSH was measured using electrochemiluminescence, ii) lipid profile, homocysteine, and hs-CRP were measured for all the participants. Atherogenic indices: Castelli risk indices I&II, Atherogenic coefficient (AEC), and Atherogenic Index of Plasma (AIP) were calculated using formulas. A comparison between the study groups was made by using the Independent t-test and Mann-Whitney U test. p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: The hypothyroid group had significantly higher levels of homocysteine (p= 0.014), and hs-CRP (hs-CRP> 3.0 mg/L, 70% of participants have intermediate to high risk for a cardiovascular event) and elevated BMI compared to participants in the euthyroid group. Atherogenic indices (p< 0.001) was significantly increased in the hypothyroid participants' group. TC, TG , and LDL were significantly elevated in the hypothyroid group but did not show any association with systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Conclusions: Premenopausal women with hypothyroidism have a greater predisposition for cardiovascular disease compared to euthyroid
Evaluation of amino acid profile in serum of patients with Covid-19 for providing a new treatment strategy
Authors: Ozturk Ali , Bayraktar Nihayet , Bayraktar Mustafa , Ibrahim Bashar , Bozok Taylan , Resat Ceylan
Published: July 2022

Background: Amino acids have an important role in metabolism and may affect COVID-19-related outcomes. In our study, the amino acid serum level of hospitalized COVID19 patients was evaluated to determine a new treatment strategy. Methods: The amino acid profile covering 43 amino acids in 68 subjects, comprising 30 (14 men and 16 women) controls and 38 (16 men and 22 women) COVID-19 patients, were examined. The amino acid profiles of the participants were screened by LC-MS/MS. Results: Compared with the control group, serum levels of 27 amino acids increased in the patient group. Alpha-aminopimelic acid, sarcosine, and hydroxyproline amino acids were considerably higher in the control group than in the patient group (p<0.0001). There was no notable difference among control group and the case group for 13 amino acids (p≥0.05). A significant positive correlation was seen among the control and the patient groups in the mean amino acid values (r=0.937; p<0.0001). Conclusions: These results postulated a clear picture on the serum levels of amino acid in the COVID-19 patients. Serum amino acids measured in hospitalized COVID-19 patients can explain the patient's metabolic status during the disease.
From big bang cosmology to the cyclic universe in dynamic equilibrium
Authors: Fiscaletti Davide
Published: July 2022

A cyclic model of a timeless universe in dynamic equilibrium is suggested in which the fundamental stage of physical processes is a three-dimensional non-local quantum vacuum defined by reduction-state processes of creation/annihilation of quanta which occur in correspondence to elementary energy fluctuations. It is shown in what sense this model implies the existence of symmetry between the energy of matter and energy of space and, consequently, of a cyclic transformation space-matter-space-matter... in the active galactic nuclei. It is concluded by demonstrating how this model of the cyclic universe in dynamic equilibrium allows us to resolve some important problems of the Standard Cosmological Model.
Comparative study of electrical resistance of disc-shaped compacts fabricated using calcined clams shell, Periwinkle shell and Oyster shell nanopowder
Authors: Olusakin Adeniran , Okon Akankpo , Edet Etuk , Williams Robert , Ebuka Agbasi
Published: July 2022

In this investigation, Clam, Periwinkle and Oyster shells were separately treated, calcined and ball-milled into nano powder. Each nano powder material was fabricated into disc of various lengths in three replicates. In each case, the electrical characteristics of the discs were determined. Electrical resistivity values obtained for test samples developed from Clam, Periwinkle and Oyster shells were found to be (6.024 ± 0.009) x 105 Om, (6.823 ± 0.030) x 105 Om, and (4.916 ± 0.007) x 105 Om respectively at a temperature of (25.0 ± 1.0oC). Also, electronic activation energy values were found to be 0.68eV, 0.61eV, and 0.76eV, while thermal sensitivity index values were obtained as 7850K, 7058K, and 8814K respectively for the samples fabricated from the shells of Clam, Periwinkle, and Oyster. The shell samples exhibit a negative temperature coefficient of resistance with values of - 8.83%/K, -7.94%/K and -9.92%/K for Clam, Periwinkle and Oyster shells respectively. These results provide data base on the electrical characteristics for the shells. It can be adjudged from the results that the shells are potential raw materials for NTC thermistor production. They have high sustainability and can be considered to be economically cheap since they are discarded as waste.
Chemical composition, antioxidant and antibacterial activity of Adiantum capillus-veneris L. extract from Algeria
Authors: Boukada Fadhela , Sitayeb Sara , Khadem Hafida , Meddah Boumediene , Zohra Soltani
Published: July 2022

The present study evaluates the antioxidant and antibacterial activities as well as the chemical composition of the aerial part of Adiantum capillus-veneris L., which are endemic to the flora of Algeria. The total phenolic amount of the hydromethanolic extract, as measured by the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent procedure, was found to be about 23.44 ± 0.14 mg GAE/g DW, while the flavonoid content value was 4.66 ± 0.01 mg CE/g DW, as measured by aluminum chloride colorimetric method. The antioxidant power of the extract was analyzed using the DPPH method. DPPH radicals were scavenged with an IC50 value of 65.85 µg/mL. The antibacterial activity of hydromethanolic extract against five bacterial strains of Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 25853), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Streptococcus pneumoniae and Bacillus cereus (ATCC 10876) were carried out using the disc diffusion test and the microdilution method. Streptococcus pneumoniae is the most sensitive bacterium with inhibition zone of 9.0 ± 1.1 cm and MIC=10 mg/mL. Based on HPLC analysis, we find that quercetin 3-O-glucoside was the most abundant compound in the plant extract. This study demonstrates that Adiantum capillus-veneris could be a potential natural source of antibacterial and antioxidant compounds.
Decontamination of Salmonella enterica spp. on shell eggs by Allium cepa L. dry scales extracts
Authors: Mihajilov-Krstev Tatjana , Joković Nataša , Tamindžija Dragana , Tamaš Ivica , Stanković Nikola , Stojanović-Radić Zorica , Volarić Ana , Radnović Dragan
Published: July 2022

Salmonellae are a major global diarrheal diseases agent and are commonly found in a variety of foods. However, eggs appear to be one of the most important sources of infection ultimately leading to salmonellosis. Here we investigate a potential utilization of onion (Allium cepa L.) dry scales extracts and decoction for disinfection of eggshells contaminated with Salmonella enterica spp. Antimicrobial activity was screened by a microplate dilution method against 32 environmental and 1 reference Salmonella strains, at 106 and 103 CFU/ml starting cell concentration. Also, the efficacy of egg submersion treatment was tested. At high contamination level of 106 Salmonella cells per ml, extracts exhibited MIC and MBC values in the range of 0.08-2.50 mg/ml and 0.31-10.0 mg/ml, respectively. Ethanol extract had the most potent antibacterial activity followed by methanol, ethyl-acetate and acetone extracts. Pure decoction had MIC and MBC in the range of 250-500 mg/ml. When testing a lower level of contamination (103 CFU/ml) which is more similar to real life levels, MIC and MBCs were 8 to 14 times lower. Submersion of artificially contaminated eggs in ethanol extracts and decoctions resulted in the complete elimination of Salmonella after 8 minutes of exposure. Thus, a reduction of a minimum of 3.71 log units was achieved during the 8 minutes of treatment. Having in mind natural levels of Salmonella eggshell counts are far lower it can be implied that such treatment could be highly effective in practical application. Results show that tested onion dry scale decontamination solutions are an efficient, cost-effective and eco-friendly options for eggshell decontamination, and are especially promising for use in organic egg production.
Antioxidative enzymes in root and leaf of Rumex obtusifolius L. grown on ash amended soil
Authors: Gajić Dragana , Lukajić Bojana , Hasanagić Dino , Škondrić Siniša , Davidović-Plavšić Biljana , Kukavica Biljana
Published: July 2022

Antioxidant enzymes are one of the most important links in the plant defense system to various types of environmental stress, so their response to a particular type of stress may indicate the sensitivity or tolerance of the plant species. Our paper studied the difference in antioxidative enzyme [catalase (CAT, EC 1.11.1.6), superoxide dismutase (SOD, EC 1.15.1.1) and Class III peroxidases (POD, EC 1.11.1.7)], isoenzyme pattern and activities between Rumex obtusifolius L. (Polygonaceae) plants grown on ash amended and uncontaminated soil. Modified SDS-PAGE electrophoresis revealed the presence of a new POD isoform in leaf samples growing on ash-amended soil, although the activity of POD in the leaves did not change significantly compared to control plants. On the other hand, in the roots of ash-growing plants POD activity decreased by 90%. Single CAT isoform was detected in both leaf samples, and results indicate 47% higher CAT activity in leaves of ash growing plants. Native electrophoresis detected two SOD isoforms in leaves and roots from the control plant. SOD isoforms were inhibited in the roots of plants grown on ash. The paper indicates the possible role of CAT, SOD and POD in the adaptive response of R. obtusifolius plants on ash amended soil.
The biological activity of Ocimum minimum L. flowers on redox status parameters in HCT-116 colorectal carcinoma cells
Authors: Jovankić Jovana , Nikodijević Danijela , Blagojević Stefan , Radenković Nikola , Jakovljević Dragana , Grbović Filip , Cvetković Danijela
Published: July 2022

Medicinal plants have widely been used as a natural source of remedies for treating several diseases, including colorectal cancer. Ocimum minimum L. is a very important dietary plant used in traditional and modern medicine, due to its health beneficial effect realized by cytotoxic, proapoptotic, antioxidant/prooxidant, antiviral and antimicrobial activity. The biological activity of O. minimum flowers has been evaluated in HCT116 colorectal carcinoma cells through antiproliferative activity by MTT assay, pro-apoptotic activity by AO/EB and concentrations of redox status parameters (O2∙ and lipid peroxidation) by colorimetric methods. The protein expression of iNOS was analyzed by immunocytochemistry, while the antimigratory effect was measured by xCELLigence system. The treatment with O. minimum shows the antiproliferative, proapoptotic, impact on redox status parameters and antimigratory effect on HCT-116 cells. Based on obtained results, the pharmacological effect of O. minimum is evident against HCT-116 colorectal carcinoma cells, suggesting that this plant may be good start material for future anticancer therapy investigation.
Bioaccumulation of metals, total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity of Rumex acetosella L. from tailings in Žitkovac (Kosovo & Metohija)
Authors: Pavlović Milica , Jakšić Tatjana , Vasić Predrag , Simić Zoran , Topuzović Marina , Đelić Gorica
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was to determine the bioaccumulation of the metals in Rumex acetosella L. collected from the tailings of abandoned mine in Žitkovac (near Kosovska Mitrovica, Kosovo and Metohija), and to establish the possibility of using those plants for medicinal purposes. Concentrations of heavy metals (Mn, Fe, Pb, Ni, Cr, Cu, Cd, Zn, Ca and Mg) in soil, roots and aboveground parts of R. acetosella were determined by wet mineralization with nitric and perchloric acid. The results of the research indicate that R. acetosella accumulates large amounts of Ni, Cu, Pb, Zn, Cr, and Mn. The total phenol content, the total amount of flavonoids and the antioxidant activity of three different extracts of the root and aboveground parts of R. acetosella were determined by spectrophotometric methods. The acetone extracts contain the highest concentration of phenols and flavonoids. Ethyl acetate has proven to be a solvent that releases the least amount of phenols and flavonoids. The methanol extract of aboveground parts has the highest, while acetone root extract has the lowest antioxidant activity. Rumex acetosella can be used for medicinal purposes, but only collected from uncontaminated soil.
Assessments of the impact of metals on juvenile earthworms (Eisenia fetida) in laboratory conditions
Authors: Sekulić Jovana , Mrkalić Emina , Stojanović-Petrović Mirjana , Popović Filip , Trakić Tanja
Published: July 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of different concentrations of copper and zinc on the mortality and bodyweight of juvenile earthworms in artificial soil. Copper was more toxic with complete mortality at the dose rate of 1000 mg/kg. Bodyweight loss of earthworms was observed immediately, after the first week, except at the lowest concentration. In comparison to control, there were significant differences in the bodyweight loss every week in the concentrations of 333 and 666 mg/kg, and also 167 mg/kg in the fourth, sixth, and eighth week. Zinc has not shown a significant effect on mortality, except in the highest concentration, where survival was less than 25%. Statistically significant effect (p < 0.05) on bodyweight was registered only at the highest concentration, every week. The impact of metals on earthworm populations should be more accurately assessed, and data for juvenile earthworms should be considered when proposing a safe concentration of pollutants in the environment, because of the great importance of these animals' presence in the soil.
Tourists' alcoholic beverage consumption and re-visit intention: A conceptual paper
Authors: Dsouza Edgar , Dayanand M.S. , Borde Nilesh
Published: July 2022

Alcohol consumption is an integral part of travel experience but its implication has been underestimated. Travel experiences are used as a competitive advantage, as more and more establishments focus on creating experiences to distinguish themselves in the increasingly competitive food and beverage sector. This paper collates literature in the area of the alcoholic beverage consumption experience of tourists and their behavioural intentions. Existing food and beverage tourism frameworks are reviewed in this study. Based on the review, we have created a new framework for the study of the alcohol consumption experience of a tourist. This conceptual study presented in the form of a proposed framework will help researchers to contribute to the field of beverage tourism by focusing on the alcoholic beverage consumption experience as the dependant construct and revealing the effects of such an experience on their revisit intention.
Judicial review in competition cases in Croatia: Winning and losing arguments before the High Administrative Court of the Republic of Croatia
Authors:   University of Osijek, Faculty of Law, Croatia, Akšamović Dubravka
Published: July 2022

The paper provides a systematic insight into judicial control of Croatian Competition Agency (CCA) decisions in Croatia. Its first part will explain how the applicable model of judicial control and CCA powers were changed over the years. The central part of the paper will be dedicated to the current model of judicial control of CCA decisions, to the powers of the High Administrative Court of Republic of Croatia (HACRC) and to the scope of judicial review in competition cases. In the last part of the paper, the author will present the results of a survey on the most successful and unsuccessful appeal arguments in competition cases before the HACRC in the five year period from 2015 until 2020. In its conclusion, the author will give a critical review of the quality and adequacy of the current model of judicial control in competition cases in Croatia, and will suggest changes that would, in the authors view, result in significant improvements.
SMARTCHAIN - Towards Innovation-Driven and Smart Solutions in Short Food Supply Chains
Authors: Casado Hebrard Francisco Javier , Braun Susanne , Argyropoulos Dimitrios
Published: July 2022

In recent times, Short Food Supply Chains (SFSCs), i.e., supply chains in which the number of intermediaries between farmer and consumer are minimal or ideally nil, and local markets have flourished in Europe, both in rural and urban areas. SMARTCHAIN is a 3-year Horizon 2020 multi-actor project of 43 partners from 11 European countries, including key stakeholders from the short food supply chain domain – a kaleidoscope of ‘actors’ where science meets a wide range of non-technical disciplines and stakeholders across the agri-food value chain. Its central objective is to develop a portfolio of technological, organisational, social, and digital innovations, which will be validated in a Living Lab approach (18 pan-European use cases on short food supply chains) ensuring powerful co-creation and testing. SMARTCHAIN will develop 9 national Innovation Hubs and the SMARTCHAIN Innovation Platform, a digital portal for building a stakeholder community, and facilitating engagement, communication, and knowledge exchange across stakeholders. This special issue focuses on the most recent developments with respect to innovation in short food supply chains and publishes original research articles in this field.
Application of digital solutions to improve the operation of short food supply chains
Authors: Parrag Viktória , Szegedyné Ágnes Fricz , Sebők András
Published: July 2022

Short food supply chains (SFSCs) are today widely promoted due to the positive impact on social, economic and environmental sustainability. However, short chains face several specific challenges (e.g., meeting the requirements of consumers and ensuring optimal operations). The application of innovative solutions and digitalisation can support the actors of SFSCs to achieve these goals. Solutions and methods were collected based on the innovativeness and applicability of SFSCs. Systematic analysis of the needs of SFSCs for technological and non-technological innovations was carried out by partners of the SmartChain project. Based on the research, recommendations were made for the participating SFSCs regarding potential innovations. A significant proportion of the identified solutions have digital elements that were collectively assessed as a suitable solution in the case of the studied SFSCs. The current work provides an overview of the potential implementation of the collected innovative solutions having digital elements and addresses the primary needs and issues of SFSCs where the application is relevant. Highlighted areas of performance are marketing, communication, packaging and labelling, and logistics.
Motivations and barriers for engagement in short food supply chains: insights from european focus groups
Authors: Aouinait Camille , Christen Danilo , Carlen Christoph , Mehauden Louise , Mora Patricia , Massar Bob , Frederiks Mark
Published: July 2022

The purpose of the study was to identify the motivations and the barriers that stakeholders face regarding Short Food Supply Chains (SFSC). Two focus groups with stakeholders of the agricultural sector and SFSC were conducted in the Netherlands and Switzerland. A first fundamental topic addressed by participants was the one related to the definition of SFSC, which is far from consensual,"short" being often associated and sometimes confused with local, direct, small, fair, ecological, fresh, healthy, etc. However, a series of positive and negative factors influencing SFSC development, and the involvement of agri-food stakeholders were identified. On the one hand, the unique relationship built through direct contact between producers and consumers, the fair distribution of value added in the chain that producers can find in engaging in SFSC, the increasing number of SFSC initiatives, the farm resilience, and territorial strategies that are being developed seem to be the most positive aspects, that can explain the trends moving towards these types of distribution channel. On the other hand, many hindering factors were also identified, such as weak communication and marketing capacity of producers, and a lack of efficiency and cooperation between peers. The fierce competition of conventional distribution, using green washing, together with a profusion of labels, price issues, and unsuitable standards were mentioned as the main threats faced by SFSC actors.
BIRC6 modifies risk of invasive bacterial infection in Kenyan children
Authors: Gilchrist James J , Kariuki Silvia N , Watson James A , Band Gavin , Uyoga Sophie , Ndila Carolyne M , Mturi Neema , Mwarumba Salim , Mohammed Shebe , Mosobo Moses , Alasoo Kaur , Rockett Kirk A , Mentzer Alexander J , Kwiatkowski Dominic P , Hill Adrian VS , Maitland Kathryn , Scott J Anthony G , Williams Thomas N
Published: July 2022

Invasive bacterial disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in African children. Despite being caused by diverse pathogens, children with sepsis are clinically indistinguishable from one another. In spite of this, most genetic susceptibility loci for invasive infection that have been discovered to date are pathogen specific and are not therefore suggestive of a shared genetic architecture of bacterial sepsis. Here, we utilise probabilistic diagnostic models to identify children with a high probability of invasive bacterial disease among critically unwell Kenyan children with Plasmodium falciparum parasitaemia. We construct a joint dataset including 1445 bacteraemia cases and 1143 severe malaria cases, and population controls, among critically unwell Kenyan children that have previously been genotyped for human genetic variation. Using these data, we perform a cross-trait genome-wide association study of invasive bacterial infection, weighting cases according to their probability of bacterial disease. In doing so, we identify and validate a novel risk locus for invasive infection secondary to multiple bacterial pathogens, that has no apparent effect on malaria risk. The locus identified modifies splicing of BIRC6 in stimulated monocytes, implicating regulation of apoptosis and autophagy in the pathogenesis of sepsis in Kenyan children.
Translocation of southern mountain caribou using a soft-release technique
Authors: Mathieu Amélie , Vander Vennen Lucas M. , Ried Aaron , Legebokow Cory , Schwantje Helen M.
Published: July 2022

Southern mountain caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou, SMC) in British Columbia, Canada, are experiencing a precipitous population decline and range recession. In 2019, the two southernmost herds, the South Selkirks and the Purcells-South herds, were functionally extirpated and facing imminent extinction. To rescue the remaining animals, a translocation into the Columbia North herd range was performed using a soft-release method. The translocated animals were released alongside a captive-reared yearling and a resident adult female from the Columbia North SMC herd. A comparison of habitat selection behaviours at the 2nd order of selection demonstrated that the released animals responded to habitat and elevational conditions similarly to resident caribou. The translocation and soft release of Purcells-South and South Selkirks individuals demonstrates that soft release of wild translocated and captive-reared SMC can be successful and should be considered where and when feasible.
Exploring Legal Accountability of Global Technology And Social Media Companies for the Cyber Exploitation And Online Human Trafficking of Yezidis and Other Minorities By ISIS
Authors: Didier Emmanuel , Hellweger Angelika , Powell Robert Jeffrey , van Kampen Catherine
Published: July 2022

New legal and regulatory challenges are emerging as technology infiltrates every aspect of public and private life on a global scale. The growing dominance of largely unregulated global technology and social media companies presents grave concerns for international and national lawmakers
and regulators grappling with health, safety and security issues such as cyber exploitation and discrimination, digital harassment and violence, online human trafficking and cyber sexual exploitation, particularly of vulnerable populations living in conflict zones. Additional issues relate
to the biases and discrimination programmed into artificial intelligence and how global technology and social media companies are using powerful algorithms to expand their global audiences without possessing the technical language competency needed to enforce their community standards prohibiting
the dissemination of hate speech, illegal content and unlawful activities on their platforms. While social media has benefits, it can also facilitate crimes such as cyber exploitation, sexual terrorism and online human trafficking that especially harm socially marginalized and economically
vulnerable people—specifically women and children. This law article focuses on the nexus between cyber exploitation, enslavement, sexual torture and online human trafficking on global technology and social media platforms and its connection to terrorism financing with a detailed discussion
of what happened to Yezidi women and children and other religious and ethnic minorities during the rise of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS, ISIL, IS or the Islamic State). This law article will also explore the legal frameworks in the United States, Europe and Iraq that might allow
victims of cyber exploitation to pursue criminal and civil accountability against corporate actors.
Blood transcriptome analysis revealing aging gene expression profiles in red panda
Authors: Luo Jing , Zhang Liang , Shen Fujun , Luo Li , Chen Lei , Fan Zhenxin , Hou Rong , Yue Bisong , Zhang Xiuyue
Published: July 2022

The red panda is an endangered forest species distributed on the edge of the Qinghai Tibet Plateau. The species has been conserved in ex-situ in many countries and its survival is threatened by many diseases. Its immune system is vulnerable to age-associated alterations, which accumulate and result in a progressive deterioration that leads to an increased incidence of diseases. We identified 2,219 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between geriatric (11–16 years) and adult individuals (4–8 years), and 1690 DEGs between adults and juveniles (1 year). The gene expression and functional annotation results showed that the innate immunity of red pandas increases significantly in geriatric individuals, whereas its change remains unclear when comparing adults and juveniles. We found that the adaptive immunity of red pandas first increased and then decreased with age. We identified CXCR3, BLNK, and CCR4 as the hub genes in the age-related protein–protein interaction network, which showed their central role in age-related immune changes. Many DNA repair genes were down-regulated in geriatric red pandas, suggesting that the DNA repair ability of the blood tissue in geriatric red pandas is significantly reduced. The significantly up-regulated TLR5 in geriatric individuals also suggests the possibility of enhancing the vaccination immune response by incorporating flagellin, which could be used to address decreased vaccine responses caused by age-related declines in immune system function. This work provides an insight into gene expression changes associated with aging and paves the way for effective disease prevention and treatment strategies for red pandas in the future.
A diagnostic model for overweight and obesity from untargeted urine metabolomics of soldiers
Authors: Albores-Mendez Exsal M. , Aguilera Hernández Alexis D. , Melo-González Alejandra , Vargas-Hernández Marco A. , Gutierrez de la Cruz Neptalí , Vazquez-Guzman Miguel A. , Castro-Marín Melchor , Romero-Morelos Pablo , Winkler Robert
Published: July 2022

Soldiers in active military service need optimal physical fitness for successfully carrying out their operations. Therefore, their health status is regularly checked by army doctors. These inspections include physical parameters such as the body-mass index (BMI), functional tests, and biochemical studies. If a medical exam reveals an individual’s excess weight, further examinations are made, and corrective actions for weight lowering are initiated. The collection of urine is non-invasive and therefore attractive for frequent metabolic screening. We compared the chemical profiles of urinary samples of 146 normal weight, excess weight, and obese soldiers of the Mexican Army, using untargeted metabolomics with liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-MS). In combination with data mining, statistical and metabolic pathway analyses suggest increased S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) levels and changes of amino acid metabolites as important variables for overfeeding. We will use these potential biomarkers for the ongoing metabolic monitoring of soldiers in active service. In addition, after validation of our results, we will develop biochemical screening tests that are also suitable for civil applications.
Effects of self-selected versus motivational music on lower limb muscle strength and affective state in middle-aged adults
Authors: Greco Francesca , Rotundo Luca , Grazioli Elisa , Parisi Attilio , Carraro Attilio , Muscoli Carolina , Paoli Antonio , Marcolin Giuseppe , Emerenziani Gian Pietro
Published: July 2022

Background

Strength training plays a crucial role in promoting healthy ageing and music might affect how individuals perform and perceive strength exercises. This study aimed to investigate the effects of self-selected music (SSM) on muscle strength and affective states during maximal isometric contractions on a customized leg extension.

Methods

Twenty-six healthy middle-aged males (50.8 ± 8.4 years) performed maximal and endurance isometric strength tests under three different conditions: SSM, motivational music (MM), and control condition (CC). Peak force and Rate of Force Development (RFD) were assessed during the maximal isometric strength test. The isometric endurance test evaluated the mean force and a fatigue index. Moreover, Felt Arousal Scale (FAS) was administered before the strength protocol, whereas the Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) and Feeling Scale (FS) at the end of it.

Results

Mean force was significantly higher in the SSM (507.3 ± 132.2 N) than MM (476.3 ± 122.4 N, p < 0.01) and CC (484.6 ± 119.2 N, p = 0.03). FAS was significantly higher in the SSM (4.0 [1.3] than MM (3.0 [2.3], p < 0.01) and CC (3.0 [1.3], p < 0.01) conditions. FS was significantly higher in the SSM (4.0 [2.0] than MM (3.0 [1.3], p < 0.01) and CC (3.0 [1.3], p < 0.01) conditions. No significant differences were found for peak force, RFD, fatigue index, and RPE.

Conclusions

Listening to SSM seems to influence isometric endurance strength performance in middle-aged adults positively. Moreover, listening to SSM might improve individuals’ affective states without affecting the level of perceived exertion.
Policemen of the Tsar: Local Police in an Age of Upheaval
Authors: Abbott Robert J.
Published: July 2022

Founded by Peter the Great in 1718, Russia’s police were key instruments of tsarist power. In the reign of Alexander II (1855-1881), local police forces took on new importance. The liberation of 23 million serfs from landlord control, growing fear of crime, and the terrorist violence of the closing years challenged law enforcement with new tasks that made worse what was already a staggering burden. (“I am obliged to inform Your Imperial Highness that the police often fail to carry out their assignments and, when they do execute them, they do so poorly because of their moral corruption…”) This book describes the regime’s decades-long struggle to reform and strengthen the police. The author reviews the local police’s role and performance in the mid-nineteenth century and the implications of the largely unsuccessful effort to transform them. From a longer-term perspective, the study considers how the police’s systemic weaknesses undermined tsarist rule, impeded a range of liberalizing reforms, perpetuated reliance on the military to maintain law and order, and gave rise to vigilante justice. While its primary focus is on European Russia, the analysis also covers much of the imperial periphery, discussing the police systems in the Baltic Provinces, Congress Poland, the Caucasus, Central Asia, and Siberia.
Attitude of Farmers towards the use of Agricultural Machineries in East Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya
Authors: Lyngdoh Daryll R. , Mazhar Syed H.
Published: July 2022

This present study has been conducted to ascertain the attitude and proper understanding of the farmers of the benefits and outcomes in using various agriculture machineries in the field. The study was conducted in the Mawryngkneng C&RD Block in East Khasi Hills District of Meghalaya. The primary data was collected from 120 respondents by personal interview method using pre-structured interview schedule. The attitude of the farmers was measured by asking 12 questions with respect to the use of agriculture machineries. Pearson’s Product Moment coefficient of correlation (r) was calculated to determine the relationships between the independent variables and attitude of the respondents. After analysis of data, it was observed that the attitude was maximum at medium level i.e. 61.66 per cent, followed by low level at 29.17 per cent and then high level at 9.17 per cent. Co – efficient of correlation (r) analysis indicated that education, yearly income, social contact, extension contact and mass media exposure were found to be positively significant whereas, variables like age, type of house, family type, family size, occupation and land holding were found to have no relationship with the attitude of the farmers.
Estimation of Parameters and Optimality of Second-Order Spherical Designs Using Quadratic Function Relative to Non-Spherical Face centered CCD
Authors: Henry Onu, Obineke , Azubuike Ijomah, Maxwell , Joshua Osahogulu, Dele
Published: July 2022

The study presented the estimation of parameters and optimality of second-order spherical designs using quadratic model in comparison to the non-spherical face centered CCD for varying axial distances. The designs considered were equiradial design of axial distances of 1.0 and 1.414, inscribed CCD of axial distance of 1.0 and circumscribed CCD of axial distance of 1.414, the study employed sum of square error, variance estimation, D-, A-, and T-optimality criteria as well as Grand mean of these designs for quadratic model and 1 to 10 center runs were considered. The study observed that the sum of square error of the non-spherical face centred CCD is zero (0) for radial point of n=5 with 1 centre point and this result is seen to be a misleading result, because, no process is 100%. While the sum of square error of the spherical designs with axial distance of 1.0 gave minimal sum of square errors and the spherical designs with axial distance of 1.414 gave very large sum of square error. The Grand mean of the spherical and the non-spherical designs were equal or approximately equal for radial point of n=5 for centre points 1-10 inclusive. But as the radial distance increases above 5, the Grand mean of the non-spherical CCD differs significantly from those of the spherical designs. The study suggests that the non-spherical second order design is inferior to their spherical second order design counterparts. The spherical designs with axial distance of 1.414 (equiradial and circumscribed CCD) have better D-optimality, A-optimality and T-optimality than the non-spherical face centred CCD, while, the spherical designs with axial distance of 1.0 (equiradial and inscribed) has inferior D-optimality, A-optimality and T-optimality compared to the non-spherical face centred CCD with axial distance of 1.0.
Neonatal Rickets, Due to Maternal Vitamin D Deficiency, Complicated by Convulsion and Dilated Cardiomyopathy: Case Report
Authors: Mebrouk Nadia , Jabourik Fatima , Chkirat Bouchra , Chtouki Loubna , Benouachane Thami , Oamer Hassan Ait , Bentahila Abdelali
Published: July 2022

Deficiency rickets due to maternal hypovitaminosis D cause hypocalcaemia in infants, which may be complicated by dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) with myocardial dysfunction. Calcium is central in myocardial contraction coupling, and hypocalcemia decreases myocardial contractility. However, dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) due to hypocalcemia in infants has been rarely reported. Correction of hypocalcemia was associated with resolution of congestive heart failure and the left ventricular (LV) geometry and systolic function.

We report the case of an infant who presented deficiency rickets due to maternal hypovitaminosis D, complicated by convulsion and dilated cardiomyopathy, with good improvement under treatment with calcium and vitamin D.
ABT-263, an Inhibitor of Bcl-2 Family Antiapoptotic Proteins, Sensitizes Prometaphase-Arrested HeLa Cells to Apoptosis Induced by Mild Hyperthermia
Authors: Paulson James R. , Luedtke Rachel L. , Suydam Savannah , Obi Daniel , Xie Linfeng
Published: July 2022

Aims: We have previously shown that mild hyperthermia (39-42°C) rapidly induces apoptosis in H-HeLa cells arrested in mitosis but not in interphase cells and not in mitotic-arrested cells of other HeLa strains such as HeLa S3.  Our goal was to test the idea that this sensitivity to hyperthermia is due to down-regulation of Bcl-2 family antiapoptotic proteins during mitosis.

Methodology: HeLa S3 cells were arrested in mitosis with spindle poisons and simultaneously treated with mild hyperthermia (42°C) and ABT-263 (Navitoclax), an inhibitor of Bcl-2 and other anti-apoptotic proteins.  Apoptosis was observed microscopically and confirmed by observation of procaspase 3 cleavage using western immunoblotting.

Results: Treatment of prometaphase-arrested HeLa S3 cells with mild hyperthermia (42°C) and as little as 200 nM ABT-263 induces apoptosis in the great majority of cells within 2 hr, as judged by blebbing of plasma membranes.  The effect is not seen with interphase cells and is blocked by caspase inhibitors z-VAD-fmk and z-DEVD-fmk.

Conclusion: Our results show that inhibition of Bcl-2 family antiapoptotic proteins sensitizes prometaphase-arrested HeLa cells, but not interphase cells, to apoptosis induced by mild hyperthermia.  An open question is why are prometaphase-arrested cells more susceptible than interphase cells? If the features of mitotic-arrested cells that make them sensitive could be identified and mimicked in interphase cells by appropriate drug treatments, it may be possible to combine systemic chemotherapy with local hyperthermia to provide an effective new treatment for tumors.