bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel interpretable deep learning model for diagnosis in emergency department dyspnoea patients based on complete data from an entire health care system
Authors: Heyman Ellen T. , Ashfaq Awais , Ekelund Ulf , Ohlsson Mattias , Björk Jonas , Khoshnood Ardavan M. , Lingman Markus
Published: December 2024

Background

Dyspnoea is one of the emergency department’s (ED) most common and deadly chief complaints, but frequently misdiagnosed and mistreated. We aimed to design a diagnostic decision support which classifies dyspnoeic ED visits into acute heart failure (AHF), exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (eCOPD), pneumonia and “other diagnoses” by using deep learning and complete, unselected data from an entire regional health care system.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, we included all dyspnoeic ED visits of patients ≥ 18 years of age at the two EDs in the region of Halland, Sweden, 07/01/2017–12/31/2019. Data from the complete regional health care system within five years prior to the ED visit were analysed. Gold standard diagnoses were defined as the subsequent in-hospital or ED discharge notes, and a subsample was manually reviewed by emergency medicine experts. A novel deep learning model, the clinical attention-based recurrent encoder network (CareNet), was developed. Cohort performance was compared to a simpler CatBoost model. A list of all variables and their importance for diagnosis was created. For each unique patient visit, the model selected the most important variables, analysed them and presented them to the clinician interpretably by taking event time and clinical context into account. AUROC, sensitivity and specificity were compared.

Findings

The most prevalent diagnoses among the 10,315 dyspnoeic ED visits were AHF (15.5%), eCOPD (14.0%) and pneumonia (13.3%). Median number of unique events, i.e., registered clinical data with time stamps, per ED visit was 1,095 (IQR 459–2,310). CareNet median AUROC was 87.0%, substantially higher than the CatBoost model´s (81.4%). CareNet median sensitivity for AHF, eCOPD, and pneumonia was 74.5%, 92.6%, and 54.1%, respectively, with a specificity set above 75.0, slightly inferior to that of the CatBoost baseline model. The model assembled a list of 1,596 variables by importance for diagnosis, on top were prior diagnoses of heart failure or COPD, daily smoking, atrial fibrillation/flutter, life management difficulties and maternity care. Each patient visit received their own unique attention plot, graphically displaying important clinical events for the diagnosis.

Interpretation

We designed a novel interpretable deep learning model for diagnosis in emergency department dyspnoea patients by analysing unselected data from a complete regional health care system.
Entropy-Regularized Iterative Weighted Shrinkage-Thresholding Algorithm (ERIWSTA) for inverse problems in imaging
Authors: Ma Limin , Wu Bingxue , Yao Yudong , Teng Yueyang
Published: December 2024

The iterative shrinkage-thresholding algorithm (ISTA) is a classic optimization algorithm for solving ill-posed linear inverse problems. Recently, this algorithm has continued to improve, and the iterative weighted shrinkage-thresholding algorithm (IWSTA) is one of the improved versions with a more evident advantage over the ISTA. It processes features with different weights, making different features have different contributions. However, the weights of the existing IWSTA do not conform to the usual definition of weights: their sum is not 1, and they are distributed over an extensive range. These problems may make it challenging to interpret and analyze the weights, leading to inaccurate solution results. Therefore, this paper proposes a new IWSTA, namely, the entropy-regularized IWSTA (ERIWSTA), with weights that are easy to calculate and interpret. The weights automatically fall within the range of [0, 1] and are guaranteed to sum to 1. At this point, considering the weights as the probabilities of the contributions of different attributes to the model can enhance the interpretation ability of the algorithm. Specifically, we add an entropy regularization term to the objective function of the problem model and then use the Lagrange multiplier method to solve the weights. Experimental results of a computed tomography (CT) image reconstruction task show that the ERIWSTA outperforms the existing methods in terms of convergence speed and recovery accuracy.
Diatoms-endoparasite association in fish from the marine pacific coast of Colombia (Buenaventura)
Authors: Potosi-Pai Vanessa , Agudelo Morales Carlos E. , Benavides-Montaño Javier Antonio
Published: December 2024

The association of parasites and diatoms has been previously reported as an important mechanism to control bacteria and parasites to avoid resistance to chemical usage. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between diatoms genus and parasites within the gastrointestinal compartments (GICs) of commercial fish in fisheries of the marine Pacific coast of Colombia (Buenaventura). A total of 104 GICs from marine fish were sampled. The GICs analysis revealed 14 diatom genera (N = 14). The most prevalent were Coscinodiscus spp., which was present in 58/104 samples, 55.8% [95% CI = 37.5–62.1%]; Cyclotella spp., 28/104, 26.9% [95% CI = 0–25%]; Paralia spp., 26/104, 25% [95% CI = 12.5–44.8%]; Gyrosigma spp., 11/104, 10.6% [95% CI = 0–33.3%]; Navicula spp., 11/104, 10.6%, [95% CI = 0–20.7%]. The GICs analysis revealed a diversity of genera parasites. The most prevalent were Ameboid cysts, 25/104, 24% [95% CI = 12.5–48.3%]; Eimeria spp., 11/104, 10.6% [95% CI = 10.3–15.7%]; Anisakis spp., 29/104, 27.1% [95% CI = 27.1 (SD±12.9%)]. This is the first report concerning diatoms and parasites association in fish from the Pacific Coast of Colombia and highlights the relevance of Coscinodiscus spp. and Gyrosigma spp. as important diatoms and potential candidates for studying pharmaceutical action in aquaculture. Further studies about diatoms-parasites association in aquaculture are required.
Learning everyday multitasking activities—An online survey about people’s experiences and opinions
Authors: Digaeva Aina , Bishop Daniel T. , Szameitat Andre J.
Published: December 2024

Multitasking (MT)–performing more than one task at a time–has become ubiquitous in everyday life. Understanding of how MT is learned could enable optimizing learning regimes for tasks and occupations that necessitate frequent MT. Previous research has distinguished between MT learning regimes in which all tasks are learned in parallel, single-task (ST) learning regimes in which all tasks are learned individually, and mixed learning regimes (Mix) in which MT and ST regimes are mixed. Research using simple laboratory tasks has consistently shown that MT regimes are the most efficient–the so-called dual-task practice advantage. However, it is currently unclear which learning regimes are used in everyday life, and which regime people would prefer if given a choice. To answer these questions, 72 participants completed an online survey to describe their real-life experiences of MT learning (e.g., when learning to drive), their opinions about learning MT activities, and filled out the Multitasking Preference Inventory to assess polychronicity. Descriptive statistics showed that for everyday activities, particularly learning to drive, Mix regimes were both the most used and most preferred method, whereas MT regimes were the least preferred. A potential explanation is that everyday MT tasks are typically complex, and so people prefer to learn the individual tasks first, before combining the tasks into an MT learning regime. Preference to engage in MT, as assessed by the MPI, positively correlated (Pearson’s r = .24) with preference for MT learning regimes, suggesting that individual differences in learning of complex everyday MT activities can be determined. In conclusion, everyday life multitasking activities such as learning to drive are mostly learned in Mix regimes, i.e. a combination of ST and MT training, and people’s preference to learn such activities with MT regimes increases with their level of polychronicity.
Improving patient satisfaction based on service quality in clinical trials: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Lee Go-Eun , Kim Sue , Chu Sang Hui , Seok Jeong-Ho , Kim So Yoon , Kim Sanghee
Published: December 2024

Background

Participants’ satisfaction is an important factor in securing competitiveness in clinical trials. In many industries, such as healthcare, customer service quality has been analyzed to increase customer satisfaction. However, no study so far has attempted to measure participants’ perceptions of service quality in the clinical trial area and identify its effect on participant satisfaction.

Objective

This study examined the experiences and perceptions of clinical trial participants in terms of service quality and identified the factors that impact participant satisfaction in clinical trials.

Methods

This study used a cross-sectional descriptive and explanatory research design. Data were collected from March 29 to May 26, 2023, via a survey. The survey was conducted with 206 adults participating in clinical trials at two hospitals in Korea. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

Participants’ perceptions of the service quality and their satisfaction in clinical trials were generally positive. The variables that significantly predicted participant satisfaction in clinical trials included quality of interaction with researchers, physical environment, performance results in clinical trials, changes in health status after participating in the trial, and consideration of discontinuing the trial.

Conclusions

Participants’ perception of the service quality significantly affected their satisfaction in clinical trials. Thus, all components of service quality should be considered in the overall clinical trial process to increase participants’ satisfaction.
A study on the impact of enterprise digital transformation on informed trading
Authors: Wang Hualing
Published: December 2024

Informed trading, driven by information asymmetry and market imperfections, varies in presence across markets. This form of trading not only distorts market transaction prices and hinders resource allocation but also initiates adverse selection transactions, increasing liquidity risks and potentially precipitating market crashes, thereby impeding the market’s healthy development. Utilizing information asymmetry theory and principal-agent theory, this paper analyzes data from A-share listed companies from 2011 to 2022. Employing a fixed-effect model, it empirically examines the influence of enterprise digital transformation on the likelihood of informed trading. The findings demonstrate that enterprise digital transformation markedly reduces the likelihood of informed trading. Further analysis of heterogeneity indicates that, compared to state-owned, non-high-tech enterprises and enterprises in the western region, the inhibitory effect on informed trading is more pronounced in non-state-owned, high-tech enterprises and enterprises in the eastern and central regions. Additionally, the chain mediation effect underscores that digital transformation weakens information asymmetry and strengthens internal controls, thereby reducing informed trading. Finally, employing a dynamic panel threshold model we find that digital transformation can only significantly inhibit the informed transactions when enterprises have reached a certain level of technological and asset accumulation.
Enriched microbial consortia from natural environments reveal core groups of microbial taxa able to degrade terephthalate and terphthalamide
Authors: Schaerer Laura G. , Aloba Sulihat , Wood Emily , Olson Allison M. , Valencia Isabel B. , Ong Rebecca G. , Techtmann Stephen M.
Published: December 2024

Millions of tons of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) are produced each year, however only ~30% of PET is currently recycled in the United States. Improvement of PET recycling and upcycling practices is an area of ongoing research. One method for PET upcycling is chemical depolymerization (through hydrolysis or aminolysis) into aromatic monomers and subsequent biodegradation. Hydrolysis depolymerizes PET into terephthalate, while aminolysis yields terephthalamide. Aminolysis, which is catalyzed with strong bases, yields products with high osmolality, which is inhibitory to optimal microbial growth. Additionally, terephthalamide, may be antimicrobial and its biodegradability is presently unknown. In this study, microbial communities were enriched from sediments collected from five unique environments to degrade either terephthalate or terephthalamide by performing biweekly transfers to fresh media and substrate. 16S rRNA sequencing was used to identify the dominant taxa in the enrichment cultures which may have terephthalate or terephthalamide-degrading metabolisms and compare them to the control enrichments. The goals of this study are to evaluate (1) how widespread terephthalate and terephthalamide degrading metabolisms are in natural environments, and (2) determine whether terephthalamide is biodegradable and identify microorganisms able to degrade it. The results presented here show that known contaminant-degrading genera were present in all the enriched microbial communities. Additionally, results show that terephthalamide (previously thought to be antimicrobial) was biodegraded by these enriched communities, suggesting that aminolysis may be a viable method for paired chemical and biological upcycling of PET.
Rethinking costume practices in higher education for an inclusive gender-neutral culture
Authors: Sandoval Jorge
Published: December 2024

Understanding and respecting non-binary bodies both within the costume industry, and while learning the skills required for this profession in tertiary costume education, is an important topic of discussion. This article discusses the way non-binary bodies have been treated through the education policies and social norms that erased them through the dominant cisnormative gender discourse. Proper attention to the needs of non-binary individuals, both ideologically and pragmatically in the costume field, means a change in the education system. Such a change would develop learners’ and educators’ understanding and promote the role of non-binary and trans youth as co-designers in the shaping of spaces, protocols, didactic tools and, most importantly, how tertiary institutions respond to improving equality, diversity and inclusion. This article explores non-binary bodies within the frame of higher education through the lens of queer pedagogy, a theoretical perspective that sees education as an agent of change, and through the author’s own lived experience and practice in the classroom.
How it wants to be worn: Material agency in a devised performance costume process
Authors: van Beek Paula
Published: December 2024

This case study documents an innovative costume design exploration task, inspired by costume agency and bouffon clown that was developed in the Stage and Screen programme, Whitireia Performing Arts, Te Auaha: NZ Institute of Creativity, Wellington, Aotearoa New Zealand. The brief provides a gamified learning experience which introduces acting students to costume design ideas and strategies. The case study follows actors introduced to devised costume tasks early in the making process and the impact that had on both performance material and design decisions in the staging of two original short theatre pieces. The impact is evidenced through the activation of embodied imagination and the realization of the storytelling potential of objects and materials.
Stage and Screen under the Spotlight, hosted by The Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, Kelvin Hall, Glasgow, Scotland, 17 February 2024
Authors: Bate Toni , Garland Liz
Published: December 2024

Review of: Stage and Screen under the Spotlight, hosted by The Hunterian Museum and Art Gallery, Kelvin Hall, Glasgow, Scotland, 17 February 2024
Teaching Costume Design and Costume Rendering: A Guide for Theatre and Performance Educators, Jennifer Flitton Adams (2023)
Authors: Pride Rebecca
Published: December 2024

Review of: Teaching Costume Design and Costume Rendering: A Guide for Theatre and Performance Educators, Jennifer Flitton Adams (2023)

New York: Routledge, 252 pp.,

ISBN 978-0-36760-841-5, p/bk, £36.99
Occurrence of Toxoplasma gondii in cattle and sheep in Akmola and Kostanay regions of Kazakhstan
Authors: Tursunov Kanat , Tokhtarova Laura , Adish Zhansaya , Mustafina Raikhan
Published: December 2024

Background and Aim: Toxoplasma gondii is an intracellular protozoan and a major foodborne pathogen worldwide. Nearly, all warm-blooded animals are susceptible to toxoplasmosis, with raw and undercooked meat and animal products serving as the primary transmission routes. To date, the distribution of T. gondii among farm animals in Kazakhstan has been inadequately studied. This study aimed to determine the occurrence of antibodies against T. gondii in cattle and sheep in the Akmola and Kostanay regions.

Materials and Methods: Blood samples were randomly collected from 437 cattle and 397 sheep from two regions of Kazakhstan: Akmola and Kostanay. A commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay based on the native protein Toxoplasma surface antigen 1 was used for serological analysis.

Results: The occurrences of T. gondii were 8.0% and 3.8% among cattle and 42.1% and 19.0% among sheep in the Akmola and Kostanay regions, respectively. Antibodies against T. gondii were detected in all study areas. The greatest frequency of seropositive reactions in cattle was observed in the Arshaly region (9.0%), whereas the least frequent was observed in Arkalyk (3.3%). The highest occurrence of seropositive reactions among sheep was found in the Zerenda region (54.5%), whereas the lowest was found in the Auliekol region (15.6%).

Conclusion: The obtained results confirmed the circulation of the T. gondii pathogen among cattle and sheep in the investigated regions. These findings provide insight into the current distribution of this zoonotic parasite among farm animals in Kazakhstan.

Keywords: antibodies, cattle, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, sheep, surface antigen 1, Toxoplasma gondii.
The Effects of A 7-Minute HIIT Workout on Stress and Burnout in Outpatient Physical Therapists
Authors: Salvo Charles , Kissling Kristin , Bearzi Andre , Bondarenko Victoria , Llanso Tate , Tolley Luke , Weinstock-Collins Matthew , Caputo Matthew
Published: December 2024

Physical therapists (PTs) experience stress and burnout due to high job and productivity demands. Exercise can assist in decreasing stress and burnout, but finding the time to exercise can be difficult. This study examined the effects of a 28-day, 7-minute, high intensity interval training (HIIT) workout on PT’s stress and burnout levels.

In this quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design, the Perceived Stress Scale, Maslach Burnout Inventory, grip strength, Functional Reach Test, and VO2max measures were administered on day 1 and day 28. Between the data collection period, participants completed a daily, 7-minute HIIT workout. A series of paired sample t-tests were computed to compare the pre- and post-HIIT raw values.

Significant improvements were found in all comparisons post-HIIT (p< .001). Therefore, it was concluded that 7-minutes of HIIT can assist PTs in reducing stress and burnout levels. Employers should consider implementing a workplace wellness program to benefit their employees.
Healthy Lifestyle and Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: A Study of the Efficacy of Fatty Liver Regression
Authors: Wang Jingwei , Zhao Jinli , Zhong Yueyuan , He Chengyue , Hu Fen
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Obesity is the primary cause of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Healthy lifestyle management has potential value in the treatment of MASLD.

METHODS:

A total of 150 patients with MASLD diagnosed at the Health Management Center of our hospital were enrolled and randomly divided into a traditional treatment (control group, n = 75) and a healthy lifestyle group (observation group, n = 75). All patients underwent a 3-month intervention. Data on general information, body composition, glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, and inflammatory factors were analyzed.

RESULTS:

The difference in the change in fatty liver grade was statistically significant (P < 0.05). There were statistically significant differences in treatment efficiency for physical conditions (P < 0.05), including body fat mass, body mass index, body weight, waist circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio. In addition, there were statistically significant differences in treatment efficiency for scales such as the Diet Rating Scale, Emotional Stress Scale, and Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (P < 0.05). Differences in treatment efficiency for body fat parameters, including percentage of body fat, visceral fat area, aspartate aminotransferase, and diastolic blood pressure, were also statistically significant (P < 0.05). After treatment, statistically significant differences were observed in interferon-γ, insulin, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and tumor necrosis factor-α (P < 0.05).

DISCUSSION:

Our study indicates that a healthy lifestyle can effectively promote the reduction of fatty liver grade in patients with MASLD, demonstrating positive effects in improving lipid metabolism and inflammatory responses in these patients.
Clinical guidelines “Thyroiditis in Children”
Authors: Peterkova V. A. , Bezlepkina O. B. , Shiryaeva T. U. , Nagaeva E. V. , Vadina T. A. , Chikulaeva O. A. , Bashnina E. B. , Bolotova N. V. , Galkina G. A. , Kiyaev A. V. , Kolodkina A. A. , Коstrova I. B. , Мalievsky O. A. , Petryaykina E. E. , Samsonova L. N. , Svetlova G. N. , Taranushenko T. E. , Chugunov I. S.
Published: December 2024

Thyroiditis in children are important issues of pediatric endocrinology due to their widespread occurrence. They differ in etiology, pathogenesis, and their clinical manifestations. Updated clinical guidelines in 2024 are the main working tool of physicians. They briefly and structurally present the main information about epidemiology and modern classification of thyroiditis, methods of diagnosis and treatment based on the principles of evidence-based medicine.
Multicultural Education in Preventing Radicalism: Insights from Pesantren Tremas, Indonesia
Authors: Wilis Roro
Published: December 2024

Religious radicalism remains a significant challenge in Indonesia, where extremism is rooted in a profound misunderstanding of diversity. Pesantren Tremas employs multicultural education to combat radicalism by integrating inclusive Islamic values into its curriculum. This study analyzes how Pesantren Tremas integrates Islamic education with multicultural values to promote tolerance and inclusivity. This research employs a qualitative case study method at Pesantren Tremas, gathering data through interviews, observations, and document analysis. The findings indicate that the multicultural education strategies at Pesantren Tremas, which include teaching ta’aruf, tasamuh, and the values of ta’awun, are effective efforts to counter radicalism by fostering tolerance and cooperation among students from diverse backgrounds. These strategies involve collaborative projects and group discussions integrating Islamic teachings into social activities, preparing students to manage cultural and religious conflicts and contribute constructively to an inclusive society.
Radikalisme agama tetap menjadi tantangan utama di Indonesia, dimana ekstremisme berakar dalam ketidakpahaman mendalam tentang keberagaman. Pondok Pesantren Tremas menggunakan pendidikan multikultural sebagai alat untuk melawan radikalisme dengan mengintegrasikan nilai-nilai Islam yang inklusif dalam kurikulumnya. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis bagaimana Pondok Pesantren Tremas mengintegrasikan pendidikan Islam dengan nilai-nilai multikultural untuk mempromosikan toleransi dan inklusivitas. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan studi kasus di Pondok Pesantren Tremas, mengumpulkan data melalui wawancara, observasi, dan analisis dokumen. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa strategi pendidikan multikultural di Pondok Pesantren Tremas, yang mencakup pengajaran ta’aruf, tasamuh, dan nilai ta’awun, menjadi salah satu upaya efektif untuk mengcounter radikalisme dengan menanamkan toleransi dan kerjasama di antara santri dari berbagai latar belakang. Strategi ini melibatkan proyek kolaboratif dan diskusi grup yang mengintegrasikan ajaran Islam dalam kegiatan sosial, mempersiapkan siswa untuk mengelola konflik budaya dan agama serta berkontribusi secara konstruktif dalam masyarakat yang inklusif.
A comprehensive review of virgin coconut oil: Extraction methods and diverse applications
Authors: Thimmana GB , Kumar M , Geethanjali S , Vani V , Suresh J
Published: December 2024

The extraction of virgin coconut oil (VCO) is a critical process that yields premium oil from fresh coconut meat. Renowned for its numerous health benefits and wide-ranging applications in the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries, VCO has attracted a lot of interest. Traditional cold-pressing methods coexist with modern techniques such as centrifugation and enzyme-assisted extraction. Each method has its own benefits and drawbacks that influence the quality of the end product. To optimize VCO production and maintain its superior quality, it is crucial to understand the extraction procedure, including key factors like acidity, colour, scent, moisture content, and fatty acid composition. Rich in medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), particularly lauric acid, VCO exhibits potent antibacterial and antioxidant properties, offering significant health and wellness benefits. VCO has diverse industrial applications. It serves as an active ingredient in pharmaceutical formulations, a base oil in cosmetics, a cooking oil, and a component in various food products. It unique combination of nutritional and functional qualities makes it an ideal choice for manufacturers seeking natural and sustainable ingredients. This review focuses on the production methods, physiochemical properties, health benefits, and industrial applications of VCO extraction.
Effect of organic amendments on growth and yield of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) and physico–chemical properties of Alfisols of Tamirabarani tract
Authors: Kuzhalarasi J P , Paramasivan M , Leninraja D , Jeberlin B P , Manivannan M I
Published: December 2024

A field experiment was conducted during February–May of 2023–2024 at V.O. Chidambaranar Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam, to evaluate and study the effect of organic amendments with the combination of soil test crop response (STCR) based inorganic fertilizers on crop productivity, nutrient uptake, economic and soil fertility of brinjal (KKM 1). The experiment was carried out in a split–plot design replicated thrice with 3 main plots (M1, M2, M3) and 4 subplot (S1, S2, S3, S4) treatments. In comparison to the control, the application of 100% STCR NPK + 12.5 t ha-1 vermicompost resulted in significantly higher plant height (cm), days to first flowering, number of branches per plant, number of fruits per plant, fruit weight per plant (g), fruit yield (t ha-1), benefit-cost ratio (B:C ratio) and N, P and K uptake (kg ha-1). However, higher plant heights, number of branches per plant, days to first flowering, fruit yield, B:C ratio and N, P and K uptake were observed in 100% STCR NPK combined with 12.5 t ha-1 of organic manures. When 100% STCR NPK + 12.5 t ha-1 vermicompost was used, there was a notable build-up of organic carbon (0.49%), available N (248 kg ha-1), available P (13.33 kg ha-1), and available K (184 kg ha-1). It is believed that 12.5 t ha-1 municipal solid waste compost (MSWC) is a better alternative to other organic manures for the environmentally friendly, and also, the B:C ratio of this treatment was 4.48 compared to others.
Exploring consumer preferences for fresh strawberries in Coimbatore district
Authors: Guhan Prasath K T , Moghana Lavanya S , Mahendran K , Premavathi R , Ashok Kumar G
Published: December 2024

Strawberries have achieved a dominant position in the worldwide fruit market due to its attractive appearance and pleasantly distinct flavour. The fruit is valued not only for its taste but also for its nutritional content, particularly its high vitamin C levels. The study was conducted in the Coimbatore district using purposive sampling to obtain primary data from 150 respondents, all of whom were frequent strawberry buyers. A questionnaire was framed to gather information on demographics, purchase frequency, quantity, expenditure, and factors influencing consumer decision making when purchasing fresh strawberries. To analyse customer preferences, the following factors were chosen: price, berry size, freshness, origin, cultivation method, and site of purchase. To ascertain the relative importance of various elements influencing consumer choices, conjoint analysis was employed. Six attributes with various levels were examined, yielding 216 potential combinations, which were condensed to 16 for practical evaluation. The variables were investigated to determine their impact on consumer preferences. The study analyzed the data using SPSS software, calculating utility estimates for each attribute and its levels. The findings revealed that price, freshness, and berry size were the most important factors that influenced consumer preferences, while the cultivation method had a relatively lower impact. This study sheds light on how these traits work together to influence local market consumers’ choices for fresh strawberries.
Exploring the factors influencing farmers' purchase behavior towards submersible pumps: A PLS-structural equation modeling study in Coimbatore district
Authors: Sakthivel V , Balaji P , Chandrakumar M , Vidhyavathi A , Selvi RG , Shokila C , Mugilan K
Published: December 2024

Submersible pumps are increasingly being utilised to facilitate irrigation, providing farmers with a dependable mean to access groundwater. Efficient water management is crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity, with irrigation playing an important role in crop development. The purpose of this research is to examine the factors influencing farmers’ purchasing behaviour for submersible pumps in the Coimbatore region. Data were collected from 380 farmers using a convenience sampling method, employing a well-prepared interview schedule. The study aims to gain a better understanding of how various attributes such as price (P), durability (D), brand loyalty (BL), dealer recommendation (DR), warranty (W), product quality (PQ), spare parts availability (SPA), and after-sales service (AS) influence farmers' purchasing decisions for submersible pumps. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was employed to analyse the data. The results revealed that factors such as AS, BL, DR, P, and PQ significantly influenced farmers’ purchasing decisions for submersible pumps. The findings underscore the need for regulations that enhance the availability and accessibility of high-quality submersible pumps, along with the development of efficient marketing methods that address the specific needs of farmers.
„The duties we owe to life”: dispute over the foundational
Authors: Kłos-Skrzypczak Aleksandra
Published: December 2024

The article draws attention to the socio-political context of the struggle for the right to life of unborn children from an American perspective. The aim of the article is to present the socio-pastoral activities of Father Richard J. Neuhaus, a neoconservative, long-time editor-in-chief of the “First Things” magazine, who was a close unofficial advisor to President George W. Bush on activities to promote the Culture of Life. Using the document research method, the materials compiled in the New York archive of the journal “First Things” were analyzed, while the analytical-synthetic method was used to present articles and commentaries published on this subject in the mentioned periodical.
Cardiovascular hemodynamic response to peak exercise in individuals with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Hibner Brooks A. , Lima Natalia S. , Sherman Sara R. , Motl Robert W. , Chirinos Julio A. , Phillips Shane , Clifford Philip S. , Reder Anthony T. , Baynard Tracy , Fernhall Bo
Published: December 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition resulting in decreased aerobic capacity (peak VO2). The hemodynamic responses to peak exercise in MS are unknown. Further, it is unknown if the hemodynamic responses are due to disease or fitness. Therefore, the purpose was to compare hemodynamic response to peak exercise between individuals with and without MS, with similar peak VO2. Individuals with MS (n = 21) and CON (n = 21) underwent maximal incremental cycle exercise test to assess peak aerobic capacity (peak VO2). Heart rate, stroke volume, cardiac output, and blood pressure were obtained every other minute of the exercise test. There were no significant group differences in peak VO2. All hemodynamic variables increased similarly from baseline to peak exercise in both MS and CON. There was a significant group by time interaction for HR in individuals with MS (p < 0.01), accounted for by age, but no group by time interactions in MAP (p = 0.78), SV (p = 0.11), or Q (p = 0.86). Our findings suggest that individuals with and without MS, with similar peak VO2, have similar hemodynamic responses to peak exercise. Our data suggest that fitness is a key underlying determinants of hemodynamics responses in individuals with MS.
Join up or Evade? The Evasion of Conscription in Lithuania, 1919–1920
Authors: Černius Nerijus
Published: December 2024

For many societies in East Central Europe and the Baltic region, the First World War did not truly end in 1918. The wartime conditions of that year set the stage for the Council of Lithuania to pass a resolution restoring Lithuania’s independence. Born amid conflict, and striving to establish its sovereignty, Lithuania began forming its own army in the autumn of 1918. However, building the Lithuanian armed forces required two years of intense engagement in regional conflicts. Initially, the army relied on voluntary enlistment, but this approach proved disappointing due to the low number of volunteers. As a result, the Lithuanian government implemented compulsory military service in early 1919. This article examines a widespread phenomenon that emerged during this period: the evasion of military service by Lithuanian men. On average, one in five men eligible for the draft failed to report to the draft office, and some conscripts who were enlisted subsequently deserted. The article analyses the causes of the evasion of military service, and explores specific instances of evasion in 1919 and 1920.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC TRANSFORMATIONS IN THE BALTIC COUNTRIES
Authors:   Institute of Europe, Russian Academy of Sciences, Govorova Natalia
Published: December 2024

Anti-Russian sanctions have turned into a serious challenge for the economy and social model of the countries of the Baltic-Scandinavian macroregion, which includes the Baltic states. Higher prices for food and basic services, electricity bills, increased mortgage rates and rents have reduced the standard of living and quality of life of a significant part of the population of the Baltic states. Rising cost of living, poverty and social exclusion have become the most significant problems for the population in recent years. A sharp jump in inflation at the turn of the 2020s has led to a deeper cost of living crisis than the European Union average. This is evidenced by the statistical data reviewed by the author, studies by domestic and Western economists, and public opinion polls. The analysis of the dynamics of socio-economic development of the Baltic States, conducted in order to assess the prospects for the further course of the relevant processes in the region, has shown that socio-economic transformations in Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania were regressive, uneven not only in the country context, but also differed significantly depending on the characteristics of households within the countries. The difference in the level of cost-of-living inflation for the poorest and richest households has increased in recent years. The economic and political spaces of the Baltic states, against the background of high inflation and close to stagnation GDP growth rates, nevertheless demonstrated different results in terms of certain socio-economic parameters, which is largely due to the difference in the provision of their own energy resources and measures taken at the national level to mitigate the crisis phenomena.
Bioinformatics-based analysis of fatty acid metabolic reprogramming in hepatocellular carcinoma: cellular heterogeneity, therapeutic targets, and drug discovery
Authors: Guo Yingying , Shi Run , Xu Yu , Cho William C. , Yang Jun , Choi You Yeon , Sun Jing , Ma Yan , Pozharitskaya Olga , Shikov Alexander , Li Hongliang , Li Minglun , Qiu Zhenpeng , Yang Woong Mo , Duez Pierre , Xu Hongxi , Wang Xuanbin
Published: December 2024

Fatty acid (FA) reprogramming has a significant role in liver cancer. However, the contribution of FA metabolism reprogramming to the heterogeneity of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has not been established. Bioinformatics analysis using single-cell sequencing, a non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) algorithm, and survival analyses were used to investigate FA metabolism reprogramming in HCC patients. Molecular targets and the progress of drug discovery were also analyzed and discussed. Among 13 types of HCC cells, epithelial cells exhibited the highest score for FA metabolic aberrance, while certain lymphocytes, such as B cells, CD8Tcm cells, and Treg cells, exhibited the lowest score. Furthermore, epithelial cells displayed significant diversity in FA metabolism with a wide distribution range (−0.2 to 0.8). Additionally, a low level of FA metabolism was associated with poor prognosis in HCC patients (log-rank test, P=0.0089). Higher oxidase expression was correlated with a lower risk of oncogenesis and higher overall survival. However, enzymes involved in synthesis, oxidation, storage, and release exhibited considerable phenotypic diversity in HCC. FA metabolism reprograming was shown to be significantly correlated with the heterogeneity of HCC, which is characterized by a diversity of cancerous cells and enzymes.
The Lateral Habenula Is Necessary for Maternal Behavior in the Naturally Parturient Primiparous Mouse Dam
Authors: Benedict Jessie , Cudmore Robert H. , Oden Diarra , Spruell Aleah , Linden David J.
Published: December 2024

Mammalian parenting is an unusually demanding commitment. How has the reward system been co-opted to ensure parental care? Previous work has implicated the lateral habenula (LHb), an epithalamic nucleus, as a potential intersection of parenting behavior and reward. Here, we examine the role of the LHb in the maternal behavior of naturally parturient primiparous mouse dams. We show that kainic acid lesions of the LHb induced a severe maternal neglect phenotype in dams toward their biological pups. Next, we demonstrate that chronic chemogenetic inactivation of the LHb using inhibitory DREADDs impaired acquisition and performance of various maternal behaviors, such as pup retrieval and nesting. We present a random intercept model suggesting LHb inactivation prevents the acquisition of pup retrieval, a novel maternal behavior in primiparous mouse dams, and decreases nest building performance, an already-established behavior, in primiparous mouse dams. Lastly, we examine the spatial histology of kainic acid-treated dams with a random intercept model, which suggests the role of LHb in maternal behavior may be preferentially localized at the posterior aspect of this structure. Together, these findings serve to establish the LHb as required for maternal behavior in the mouse dam, thereby complementing previous findings implicating the LHb in parental behavior using pup-sensitized virgin female mice.
Muzikalije iz ostavštine Mirka Cajnera u Knjižnici Muzičke akademije Sveučilišta u Zagrebu
Authors: Vrbanić Vilena
Published: December 2024

Cilj. Cilj je rada predstaviti djelovanje zborovođe i skladatelja Mirka Cajnera (1910. – 1988.) te muzikalije iz njegove ostavštine koju je 2023. godine Knjižnici Muzičke akademije Sveučilišta u Zagrebu darovala njegova udovica Ljubica Cajner.
Pristup/metodologija. Ostavština Mirka Cajnera u Knjižnici Muzičke akademije sastoji se od knjižnične građe i arhivskog gradiva. Knjižnična građa, koju čine tiskane muzikalije, formalno je i sadržajno obrađena u integriranom knjižničnom sustavu ZaKi, dok je arhivsko gradivo za potrebe pisanja ovoga rada pregledano te čeka daljnju obradu.
Rezultati. Po dovršenoj obradi muzikalija ustanovljeno je da se u Cajnerovoj ostavštini čuva više od tisuću skladbi i preko 1200 primjeraka građe. Glavninu muzikalija čine svjetovne zborske skladbe hrvatskih skladatelja 19. i 20. stoljeća ili onih koji su s Hrvatskom bili povezani svojom glazbenom djelatnošću, njih čak 80. Osim njihovih autorskih djela, zastupljene su i harmonizacije ili obrade narodnih napjeva.
Društveni značaj. Rad rasvjetljava djelovanje skladatelja i zborovođe Mirka Cajnera te značaj koji je ostavio u glazbenom, kulturnom, prosvjetnom i društvenom životu lokalnih zajednica, a time i njegov doprinos cjelokupnoj hrvatskoj kulturnoj baštini.
Originalnost/vrijednost. Muzikalije iz ostavštine Mirka Cajnera ovdje se prvi puta predstavljaju stručnoj javnosti, dok arhivsko gradivo donosi dosad nepoznate detalje o predanom i mnogostranom glazbeničkom djelovanju ovog uglednog zborovođe i skladatelja.
Vrijednost knjižnog ovitka
Authors: Adamović Neda
Published: December 2024

Cilj. Cilj je rada istražiti i istaknuti značaj knjižnog ovitka, posebno ovitaka koje je ilustrirao Edo Murtić, u kontekstu njihove kulturne, povijesne i estetske vrijednosti. Fokus je stavljen na ovitke sačuvane u Zavičajnoj zbirci Bjelovariana Narodne knjižnice „Petar Preradović“ te na njihov doprinos očuvanju lokalne i nacionalne kulturne baštine.
Metodologija. Rad koristi analitički pristup usporedbe primjera knjižnih ovitaka u mrežnim katalozima četiriju knjižnica, s posebnim naglaskom na primjere ovitaka koje je ilustrirao Edo Murtić. Metodologija uključuje pregled literature i analizu odabranih primjeraka iz Zavičajne zbirke Bjelovariana.
Društveni značaj. Knjižni ovitci imaju važnu ulogu u kulturnom nasljeđu jer reflektiraju društvene, ekonomske i tehnološke promjene kroz povijest. Njihovo očuvanje u knjižničnim zbirkama, osobito u zavičajnim, omogućava bolji uvid u razvoj umjetničkih trendova i kulturnih normi, čime doprinosi očuvanju identiteta i povijesnog pamćenja zajednice.
Originalnost. U hrvatskoj stručnoj literaturi dosad nije obrađena tema knjižnih ovitaka u kontekstu njihove povijesne i estetske važnosti. Ovaj rad donosi prvi sustavni pregled Murtićevih knjižnih ovitaka i naglašava potrebu za njihovim bibliografskim opisom, prikupljanjem i očuvanjem unutar knjižničnih zbirki.
Kako što manje izgubiti u prijevodu? Prenošenje hrvatskih kulturema u talijansku kulturu
Authors: Županović Flipin Nada
Published: December 2024

U ovom ćemo prilogu izložiti analizu talijanskog prijevoda hrvatskih (većinom kajkavskih) kulturema prikupljenih iz romana Hotel Zagorje autorice Ivane Bodrožić. Na temelju primjera iz nastave koju izvodimo na kolegiju Teorija prevođenja na zagrebačkom studiju talijanistike pokazat ćemo zašto smatramo da studenti mogu mnogo naučiti iz traduktološke analize prijevodnih strategija primijenjenih na kulturemima koji izvorno pripadaju dijatopijskom varijetetu tipološki različitom od standardnog hrvatskog jezika. Iznijet ćemo stavove studenata o uspješnosti prijevoda i njihovu percepciju kvalitete prijevodnih rješenja proisteklih iz različitih primijenjenih strategija. Kritički ćemo promotriti koncept dvokulturalnosti prevoditelja koji se u suvremenoj traduktološkoj teoriji smatra nužnim preduvjetom kvalitetnoga prijevoda.
Analysis of the cutting and resistance of the original waveone® gold primary endodontic instrument compared to the counterfeit
Authors: Filho Miguel Simão Haddad , Lemos Erico de Mello , Pugas Caroline Costa , Pupo Rafaela Palladino Andretta , Santos Marcelo dos , Silva Daniela de Fátima Teixeira da , Rosa Luiz Carlos Laureano da , Medeiros João Marcelo Ferreira de
Published: December 2024

Continued technological and scientific advancement in endodontics makes it possible to develop procedures with quality, agility, reliability, greater safety and greater predictability. Among the multiple mechanized instruments, those with reciprocating kinematics and nickel titanium alloy obtained through the heating process have a more favorable impact on metallurgy, enhancing flexibility and resistance to cyclic fatigue. In fact, thanks to the ease of use of just an instrument with high cutting capacity, chosen according to the topographic characteristics and taper of the root canal, it is strongly considered. The advantages of this resource are attractive to specialist and clinical professionals, but also to counterfeiters. The purpose of this research was to analyze the cutting capacity, resistance, packaging identification, and visual characteristics of original Wave One Gold Primary endodontic instruments compared to counterfeit ones. The results show that the original Wave One Gold Primary instrument showed greater resistance and equal cutting capacity compared to the counterfeit. The original Wave One Gold Primary file fractured on the seventh use while the counterfeit fractured on the third use. The blisters have some differences in identification, however the QR Code on both packages did not produce a reading. The colored ring on the handle of the counterfeit instrument did not change the volume when subjected to sterilization processing, while the colored ring on the handle of the original instrument changed the volume when immediately subjected to the first sterilization cycle.
Osteocondroma cervical y mielopatía en niños: reporte de un caso y revisión de la bibliografía
Authors: Aguer Santiago , Dal Lago Javier , Cullari Matías Leonardo , Aguirre Facundo , Levy Eduardo , Lloyd Ruy
Published: December 2024

El osteocondroma es el tumor benigno más común del esqueleto. La columna cervical es la ubicación más frecuente para el osteocondroma espinal. Las exostosis espinales surgen, con más frecuencia, de las vértebras cervicales, aparecen típicamente en la lámina. Aunque la mielopatía cervical es un cuadro raro, puede tener serias consecuencias neurológicas. Si se descubren lesiones asintomáticas, se puede considerar la intervención quirúrgica para prevenir el deterioro neurológico. Se detectó incidentalmente un osteocondroma cervical en una paciente de 11 años. Este se originaba en la lámina de C4 y comprimía la médula espinal. La resonancia magnética de columna cervical mostró el osteocondroma en la lámina izquierda de C4 que sobresalía en el canal, lo que reducía su diámetro. La paciente fue sometida a una resección del arco posterior de C4 y a descompresión sin fusión. A los 2 años de la cirugía, no había evidencia de recurrencia local ni síntomas neurológicos.
Índice de autores 2024
Authors: AAOT Revista de la
Published: December 2024

-