bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Choosing the Best Tissue and Technique to Detect Mosaicism in Fibrous Dysplasia/McCune–Albright Syndrome (FD/MAS)
Authors: Vado Yerai , Manero-Azua Africa , Pereda Arrate , Perez de Nanclares Guiomar
Published: January 2024

GNAS-activating somatic mutations give rise to Fibrous Dysplasia/McCune–Albright syndrome (FD/MAS). The low specificity of extra-skeletal signs of MAS and the mosaic status of the mutations generate some difficulties for a proper diagnosis. We studied the clinical and molecular statuses of 40 patients referred with a clinical suspicion of FD/MAS to provide some clues. GNAS was sequenced using both Sanger and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS). We were able to identify the pathogenic variants in 25% of the patients. Most of them were identified in the affected tissue, but not in blood. Additionally, NGS demonstrated the ability to detect more patients with mosaicism (8/34) than Sanger sequencing (4/39). Even if in some cases, the clinical information was not complete, we confirmed that, as in previous works, when the patients were young children with a single manifestation, such as hyperpigmented skin macules or precocious puberty, the molecular diagnosis was usually negative. In conclusion, as FD/MAS is caused by mosaic variants, it is essential to use sensitive techniques that allow for the detection of low percentages and to choose the right tissue to study. When not possible, and due to the low positive genetic rate, patients with FD/MAS should only be genetically tested when the clinical diagnosis is really uncertain.
Renal Rehabilitation: Present and Future Perspectives
Authors: Kohzuki Masahiro
Published: January 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health problem. In patients with CKD, exercise endurance is decreased, especially as renal dysfunction advances. This is due to the combined effects of protein-energy wasting, uremic acidosis, and inflammatory cachexia, which lead to sarcopenia and are aggravated by a sedentary lifestyle, resulting in a progressive downward spiral of deconditioning. Renal rehabilitation (RR) is a coordinated, multifaceted intervention designed to optimize a patient’s physical, psychological, and social functioning, as well as to stabilize, slow, or even reverse the progression of renal deterioration, improving exercise tolerance and preventing the onset and worsening of heart failure, thereby reducing morbidity and mortality. This review focused on the history and benefits of RR in patients with CKD. Based on current evidence, RR is an effective, feasible, and safe secondary prevention strategy in CKD. RR is a promising model for a new field of rehabilitation. Therefore, efforts to increase RR implementation rates are urgently needed.
Individual Contrast Preferences in Natural Images
Authors: Cherepkova Olga , Amirshahi Seyed Ali , Pedersen Marius
Published: January 2024

This paper is an investigation in the field of personalized image quality assessment with the focus of studying individual contrast preferences for natural images. To achieve this objective, we conducted an in-lab experiment with 22 observers who assessed 499 natural images and collected their contrast level preferences. We used a three-alternative forced choice comparison approach coupled with a modified adaptive staircase algorithm to dynamically adjust the contrast for each new triplet. Through cluster analysis, we clustered observers into three groups based on their preferred contrast ranges: low contrast, natural contrast, and high contrast. This finding demonstrates the existence of individual variations in contrast preferences among observers. To facilitate further research in the field of personalized image quality assessment, we have created a database containing 10,978 original contrast level values preferred by observers, which is publicly available online.
Patterns of Alcohol Use in Hispanic Individuals with TBI over the Ten Years Post-Injury: A Model Systems Study
Authors: Arango-Lasprilla Juan Carlos , Watson Jack D. , Rodríguez Miriam J. , Ramos-Usuga Daniela , Perrin Paul B.
Published: January 2024

The study’s aim was to examine alcohol consumption patterns and predictors of consumption across time among Hispanics with traumatic brain injury (TBI) in the U.S. within ten years post-injury. This longitudinal cohort study included 1342 Hispanic individuals (77.6% males) from the multi-site, longitudinal TBI Model Systems (TBIMS) database. The main outcome measures were consumption information, demographic, and injury characteristics. Across the full sample, alcohol consumption variables generally demonstrated quadratic movement characterized by an initial increase followed by a plateau or slight decrease over the ten years post-injury. The predictors of higher consumption were being men, single, with a history of excessive alcohol use, with a nonviolent mechanism of injury, shorter duration of PTA, and higher levels of education. Participants had a greater number of 5+ drinks/episode occurrences in the past month if they were men and had had a greater number of 5+ drinks/episode occurrences in the month before injury. There was no differential change in alcohol consumption over time as a function of these predictors. This study identified a profile of at-risk Hispanics with TBI for increased alcohol consumption. These individuals should be identified and targeted for early evidence-based alcohol intervention after TBI when results might be most favorable.
Review of Hybrid Membrane Distillation Systems
Authors: Zhang Heng , Xian Haizhen
Published: January 2024

Membrane distillation (MD) is an attractive separation process that can work with heat sources with low temperature differences and is less sensitive to concentration polarization and membrane fouling than other pressure-driven membrane separation processes, thus allowing it to use low-grade thermal energy, which is helpful to decrease the consumption of energy, treat concentrated solutions, and improve water recovery rate. This paper provides a review of the integration of MD with waste heat and renewable energy, such as solar radiation, salt-gradient solar ponds, and geothermal energy, for desalination. In addition, MD hybrids with pressure-retarded osmosis (PRO), multi-effect distillation (MED), reverse osmosis (RO), crystallization, forward osmosis (FO), and bioreactors to dispose of concentrated solutions are also comprehensively summarized. A critical analysis of the hybrid MD systems will be helpful for the research and development of MD technology and will promote its application. Eventually, a possible research direction for MD is suggested.
Correction: Liao et al. A Comparison of the Fine-Grinding Performance between Cylpebs and Ceramic Balls in the Wet Tumbling Mill. Minerals 2022, 12, 1007
Authors: Liao Ningning , Wu Caibin , Li Jianjuan , Fang Xin , Li Yong , Zhang Zhongxiang , Yin Wenhang
Published: January 2024

In the original publication [...]
Solvent Extraction with Cyanex 923 to Remove Arsenic(V) from Solutions
Authors: Alguacil Francisco Jose , Escudero Esther , Robla Jose Ignacio
Published: January 2024

The removal of harmful arsenic(V) from aqueous solutions using Cyanex 923 (solvation extractant) was investigated using various experimental variables: equilibration time, the acidity of the aqueous phase, temperature, extractant and arsenic concentrations, and O/A ratio. Cyanex 923 extracted As(V) (and sulfuric acid) from acidic solutions; however, it could not be used to remove the metal from slightly acid or neutral solutions. The extraction of arsenic is exothermic and responded to the formation of H3AsO4·nL species in the organic phase (L represents the extractant, and the stoichiometric factor, n = 1 or 2, depends on the acidity of the aqueous phase). Extraction isotherms are derived from the experimental results. Both arsenic and sulfuric acid loaded onto the organic phase can be stripped with water, and stripping isotherms are also derived from the experimental results. The selectivity of the system against the presence of other metals (Cu(II), Ni(II), Bi(III), and Sb(III)) is investigated, and the ability of Cyanex 923 to extract As(V) and sulfuric acid compared to the use of other P=O-based solvation reagents, such dibutyl butylphosphonate (DBBP) and tri-butyl phosphate (TBP), is also investigated.
Exploring Spin Distribution and Electronic Properties in FeN4-Graphene Catalysts with Edge Terminations
Authors: Oguz Ismail Can , Jaouen Frederic , Mineva Tzonka
Published: January 2024

Understanding the spin distribution in FeN4-doped graphene nanoribbons with zigzag and armchair terminations is crucial for tuning the electronic properties of graphene-supported non-platinum catalysts. Since the spin-polarized carbon and iron electronic states may act together to change the electronic properties of the doped graphene, we provide in this work a systematic evaluation using a periodic density-functional theory-based method of the variation of spin-moment distribution and electronic properties with the position and orientation of the FeN4 defects, and the edge terminations of the graphene nanoribbons. Antiferromagnetic and ferromagnetic spin ordering of the zigzag edges were considered. We reveal that the electronic structures in both zigzag and armchair geometries are very sensitive to the location of FeN4 defects, changing from semi-conducting (in-plane defect location) to half-metallic (at-edge defect location). The introduction of FeN4 defects at edge positions cancels the known dependence of the magnetic and electronic proper-ties of undoped graphene nanoribbons on their edge geometries. The implications of the reported results for catalysis are also discussed in view of the presented electronic and magnetic properties.
Inhibition of VHL by VH298 Accelerates Pexophagy by Activation of HIF-1α in HeLa Cells
Authors: Kim Yong Hwan , Park Na Yeon , Jo Doo Sin , Bae Ji-Eun , Kim Joon Bum , Park Kyuhee , Jeong Kwiwan , Kim Pansoo , Yeom Eunbyul , Cho Dong-Hyung
Published: January 2024

Autophagy is a pivotal biological process responsible for maintaining the homeostasis of intracellular organelles. Yet the molecular intricacies of peroxisomal autophagy (pexophagy) remain largely elusive. From a ubiquitin-related chemical library for screening, we identified several inhibitors of the Von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) E3 ligase, including VH298, thereby serving as potent inducers of pexophagy. In this study, we observed that VH298 stimulates peroxisomal degradation by ATG5 dependently and escalates the ubiquitination of the peroxisomal membrane protein ABCD3. Interestingly, the ablation of NBR1 is similar to the curtailed peroxisomal degradation in VH298-treated cells. We also found that the pexophagy induced by VH298 is impeded upon the suppression of gene expression by the translation inhibitor cycloheximide. Beyond VHL inhibition, we discovered that roxadustat, a direct inhibitor of HIF-α prolyl hydroxylase, is also a potent inducer of pexophagy. Furthermore, we found that VH298-mediated pexophagy is blocked by silencing HIF-1α. In conclusion, our findings suggest that VH298 promotes pexophagy by modulating VHL-mediated HIF-α transcriptional activity.
Evaluation of the Hydrophilic/Hydrophobic Balance of 13X Zeolite by Adsorption of Water, Methanol, and Cyclohexane as Pure Vapors or as Mixtures
Authors: Saidi Meryem , Bihl François , Gimello Olinda , Louis Benoit , Roger Anne-Cécile , Trens Philippe , Salles Fabrice
Published: January 2024

Adsorption isotherms of pure vapors and vapor mixtures of water, methanol, and cyclohexane were studied using a synthesized 13X zeolite (FAU topology), by means of a DVS gravimetric vapor analyzer. These results were validated by GCMC calculations. The surface chemistry of the adsorbent was characterized by the thermodesorption of ammonia, and its textural properties were studied using nitrogen physisorption. The 13X zeolite was found to be strongly acidic (BrØnsted acid sites, Si/Al = 1.3) and its specific surface area around 1100 m2·g−1. Water was found to be able to diffuse within both the supercages and the sodalite cavities of the FAU structure, whereas methanol and cyclohexane were confined in the supercages only. The water/methanol sorption selectivity of the 13X zeolite was demonstrated by co-adsorption measurements. The composition of the water/methanol adsorbed phase could be calculated by assuming IAST hypotheses. This model failed in the case of the water/cyclohexane co-adsorption system, which is in line with the non-miscibility of the components in the adsorbed state. The sorption isotherms could be successfully simulated, confirming the robustness of the forcefields used. The 13X zeolite confirmed its a priori expected hydrophilic nature, which is useful for the selective adsorption of water in a methanol–water vapor mixture.
Correction: Yadav et al. PLGA-Quercetin Nano-Formulation Inhibits Cancer Progression via Mitochondrial Dependent Caspase-3,7 and Independent FoxO1 Activation with Concomitant PI3K/AKT Suppression. Pharmaceutics 2022, 14, 1326
Authors: Yadav Neera , Tripathi Amit Kumar , Parveen Amna , Parveen Shama , Banerjee Monisha
Published: January 2024

In the published publication [...]
Formulating Resveratrol and Melatonin Self-Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery Systems (SNEDDS) for Ocular Administration Using Design of Experiments
Authors: Zingale Elide , Bonaccorso Angela , D’Amico Agata Grazia , Lombardo Rosamaria , D’Agata Velia , Rautio Jarkko , Pignatello Rosario
Published: January 2024

Recent studies have demonstrated that Sirtuin-1 (SIRT-1)-activating molecules exert a protective role in degenerative ocular diseases. However, these molecules hardly reach the back of the eye due to poor solubility in aqueous environments and low bioavailability after topical application on the eye’s surface. Such hindrances, combined with stability issues, call for the need for innovative delivery strategies. Within this context, the development of self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (SNEDDS) for SIRT-1 delivery can represent a promising approach. The aim of the work was to design and optimize SNEDDS for the ocular delivery of two natural SIRT-1 agonists, resveratrol (RSV) and melatonin (MEL), with potential implications for treating diabetic retinopathy. Pre-formulation studies were performed by a Design of Experiment (DoE) approach to construct the ternary phase diagram. The optimization phase was carried out using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Four types of SNEDDS consisting of different surfactants (Tween® 80, Tween® 20, Solutol® HS15, and Cremophor® EL) were optimized to achieve the best physico-chemical parameters for ocular application. Stability tests indicated that SNEDDS produced with Tween® 80 was the formulation that best preserved the stability of molecules, and so it was, therefore, selected for further technological studies. The optimized formulation was prepared with Capryol® PGMC, Tween® 80, and Transcutol® P and loaded with RSV or MEL. The SNEDDS were evaluated for other parameters, such as the mean size (found to be ˂50 nm), size homogeneity (PDI < 0.2), emulsion time (around 40 s), transparency, drug content (>90%), mucoadhesion strength, in vitro drug release, pH and osmolarity, stability to dilution, and cloud point. Finally, an in vitro evaluation was performed on a rabbit corneal epithelial cell line (SIRC) to assess their cytocompatibility. The overall results suggest that SNEDDS can be used as promising nanocarriers for the ocular drug delivery of RSV and MEL.
Controlling the Synthesis of Polyurea Microcapsules and the Encapsulation of Active Diisocyanate Compounds
Authors: Avdeliodi Efterpi , Tsioli Anastasia , Bokias Georgios , Kallitsis Joannis K.
Published: January 2024

The encapsulation of active components is currently used as common methodology for the insertion of additional functions like self-healing properties on a polymeric matrix. Among the different approaches, polyurea microcapsules are used in different applications. The design of polyurea microcapsules (MCs) containing active diisocyanate compounds, namely isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) or hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), is explored in the present work. The polyurea shell of MCs is formed through the interfacial polymerization of oil-in-water emulsions between the highly active methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) and diethylenetriamine (DETA), while the cores of MCs contain, apart from IPDI or HDI, a liquid Novolac resin. The hydroxyl functionalities of the resin were either unprotected (Novolac resin), partially protected (Benzyl Novolac resin) or fully protected (Acetyl Novolac resin). It has been found that the formation of MCs is controlled by the MDI/DETA ratio, while the shape and size of MCs depends on the homogenization rate applied for emulsification. The encapsulated active compound, as determined through the titration of isocyanate (NCO) groups, was found to decrease with the hydroxyl functionality content of the Novolac resin used, indicating a reaction between NCO and the hydroxyl groups. Through the thorough investigation of the organic phase, the rapid reaction (within a few minutes) of MDI with the unprotected Novolac resin was revealed, while a gradual decrease in the NCO groups (within two months) has been observed through the evolution of the Attenuated Total Reflectance—Fourier-Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy and titration, due to the reaction of these groups with the hydroxyl functionalities of unprotected and partially protected Novolac resin. Over longer times (above two months), the reaction of the remaining NCO groups with humidity was evidenced, especially when the fully protected Acetyl Novolac resin was used. HDI was found to be more susceptible to reactions, as compared with IPDI.
Two-Step Bio-Dissolution of Metals from Printed Circuit Boards Using Acidophilic Iron- and Sulfur-Oxidizing Mesophiles
Authors: Magoda Kundani , Nomngongo Philiswa N. , Mekuto Lukhanyo
Published: January 2024

To date, electronic waste (e-waste) is the fastest-growing waste stream worldwide due to technological advancement and the advent of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Although e-waste is an environmental hazard, these materials are considered good secondary sources of metals. This study examined the bioleaching of metals from printed circuit boards, where a two-step bioleaching approach was used with iron–sulfur-oxidizing microorganisms at different e-waste particle sizes. The metal analysis from the different particle sizes (PSs) showed that copper (Cu), tin (Sn), and lead (Pb) were predominantly deposited in the coarser fraction, ranging from 500 to 710 µm at 28.7, 20.5, and 11.1 wt.%, respectively. On the other hand, metals such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and aluminum (Al) were mostly deposited in the finer fraction, which ranged from 38 to 150 µm at 37.3, 5.9, 8.8, 1.3, and 4.2 wt.%, respectively. After the bioleaching process, it was observed that higher metal extraction occurred at a PS ranging from 38 to 150 µm, which achieved recovery efficiency rates of 62.9%, 68.2%, 95.3%, 86.1%, 61.9%, 47.2%, 21.2%, and 63.6% for Al, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sn, and Zn, respectively, over 10 days.
The Role of Self-Control in Cyberbullying Bystander Behavior
Authors: Sela-Shayovitz Revital , Levy Michal , Hasson Jonathan
Published: January 2024

The present study examined the association between general low self-control (LSC) and its three subcomponents: risk taking, self-centeredness, and impulsivity and various bystander behaviors of cyberbullying. The study utilized a bifactor modeling approach and included a sample of 501 adolescents aged 14–18 years old. Participants’ behaviors were measured using a self-reported questionnaire. General LSC was positively associated with the cyberbully-supporters’ and passive bystanders’ behaviors. Additionally, risk taking was positively associated with both the victim-defender’s and cyberbully-supporter’s behaviors, while self-centeredness was positively associated with both the passive bystander’s and the cyberbully-supporter’s behaviors. Furthermore, impulsivity was positively associated with the cyberbully-supporter’s behaviors. We conclude that general LSC plays an important role in understanding the cyberbully-supporter’s and passive bystander’s behaviors in cyberspace. Furthermore, the analysis revealed that LSC subcomponents were also associated with the bystanders’ behaviors above and beyond the associations between general LSC and these types of behaviors.
Advanced Frequency Control Technique Using GTO with Balloon Effect for Microgrids with Photovoltaic Source to Lower Harmful Emissions and Protect Environment
Authors: Hussein Mahmoud , Hamid Mohamed , Mohamed Tarek , Al-Helal Ibrahim , Alsadon Abdullah , Hassan Ammar
Published: January 2024

Renewable energy (RE) resources such as wind and PV solar power are crucial for transitioning to carbon-free and sustainable energy systems, especially for agricultural and domestic applications in the desert and rural areas. However, implementing RE resources may lead to frequency penetrations, especially in isolated microgrids (µGs). This study proposes an adaptive load frequency control (LFC) technique for power systems. An integral controller can be tuned online using an artificial gorilla troops optimization algorithm (GTO), which is supported using a balloon effect (BE) identifier. Adaptive control is used to control the system frequency in case of variable loads and fluctuation due to 6 MW photovoltaic (PV). Three other optimization methods have been compared with the GTO + BE technique, namely the Grey Wolf Optimization method (GWO), the standard artificial gorilla troops optimization (GTO) and the Jaya technique. Digital simulation tests approved the efficiency of (GTO + BE) during system difficulties such as load disturbance and system parameter variations. In addition, the same test conditions have been repeated using a real-time simulation platform. The real-time simulation results supported the digital outcomes.
Agroecological Nutrient Management Strategy for Attaining Sustainable Rice Self-Sufficiency in Indonesia
Authors: Susanti Winda Ika , Cholidah Sri Noor , Agus Fahmuddin
Published: January 2024

Rice self-sufficiency is central to Indonesia’s agricultural development, but the country is increasingly challenged by population growth, climate change, and arable land scarcity. Agroecological nutrient management offers solutions though optimized fertilization, enhanced organic matter and biofertilizer utilizations, and improved farming systems and water management. Besides providing enough nutrients for crops, the agroecological approach also enhances resilience to climate change, reduces the intensity of greenhouse gas emissions, and improves the biological functions of rice soil. Organic and bio fertilizers can reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. For example, blue-green algae may contribute 30–40 kg N ha−1, while the application of phosphate solubilizing microbes can reduce the use of chemical phosphorous fertilizers by up to 50 percent. The country currently experiences substantial yield gaps of about 37 percent in irrigated and 48 percent in rain-fed rice. Achieving self-sufficiency requires that Indonesia accelerates annual yield growth through agroecological nutrient management from a historical 40 kg ha−1 year−1 to 74 kg ha−1 year−1. The aim is to raise the average yield from the current 5.2 t ha−1 year−1 to 7.3 t ha−1 year−1 by 2050. Simultaneously, controlling paddy field conversion to a maximum of 30,000 hectares per year is crucial. This strategic approach anticipates Indonesia’s milled rice production to reach around 40 million metric tonnes (Mt) by 2050, with an expected surplus of about 4 Mt.
Photon Acceleration by Superluminal Ionization Fronts
Authors: Mendonça José Tito
Published: January 2024

This paper explores the use of superluminal ionization fronts to accelerate and amplify electromagnetic radiation. These fronts are defined as optical boundaries between two regions of a gas, the neutral region and the plasma region, characterized by two different values of the refractive index. For that reason, the front velocity is not necessarily related to the motion of material particles, such as neutral atoms, ions and electrons, which can stay at rest. The fronts can therefore become superluminal without violating causality. In recent years, different experimental configurations, such as the flying focus, showed that it is possible to create superluminal fronts in the laboratory. These fronts can easily be described theoretically in a special reference frame, called the time frame, which is used here. In this frame, superluminal fronts reduce to time refraction, a process that is symmetrical to the well-known optical refraction. It is shown that propagation through such fronts can lead to considerable frequency shifts and energy amplification of probe laser beams. This could eventually be used to develop new sources of tunable radiation.
Monitoring Net Land Take in a Metropolitan Region—Portugal
Authors: Nicolau Rita , Condessa Beatriz
Published: January 2024

This study seeks to contribute to the definition of a “no net land take” policy by 2050 for Portugal’s second-largest metropolitan region (AMP, Porto Metropolitan Area) while sensitising those involved in regional and local planning to the European target. Based on an assessment of land use changes in AMP and its municipalities during 2007–2018, soil sealing levels in 2018 and population evolution, the study quantifies the processes that may impart achievement of the 2050 objective and identifies the regional drivers of net land take, to support the definition of both interventions to decrease land take and soil sealing and related targets. The main contribution of the research is the exploration of new indicators in terms of soil sealing and population data to identify the potential for implementing interventions proposed by the EU Soil Strategy that do not jeopardise the maintenance of biodiversity in urban areas. The land take rate in the AMP was the highest among mainland Portugal regions. Its main drivers were the development of transport networks, industrial and commercial units and dispersed housing. The reuse and re-naturalisation of artificial land have seen little use in the region. Accordingly, the daily net land taken in the AMP (0.59 ha/day) still needs to decrease until 2050. While artificial land increased across the AMP, most of its municipalities lost population. To reverse this trend, the AMP should implement tighter control mechanisms that ensure that infrastructure and housing needs are fully met through the reuse of urban areas that are already sealed. However, given that the share of impermeable soil in most urban areas is already significantly high, there will have to be a careful choice of locations where intensifying land use will cause less environmental damage. It is concluded that the degree of soil sealing within urban areas is fundamental for deciding on the interventions to be carried out to reduce net land take and for defining a policy towards meeting the 2050 target.
Non-Polio Enteroviruses Isolated by Acute Flaccid Paralysis Surveillance Laboratories in the Russian Federation in 1998–2021: Distinct Epidemiological Features of Types
Authors: Ivanova Olga E. , Eremeeva Tatiana P. , Morozova Nadezhda S. , Mikhailova Yulia M. , Kozlovskaya Liubov I. , Baikova Olga Y. , Shakaryan Armen K. , Krasota Alexandr Y. , Korotkova Ekaterina A. , Yakovchuk Elizaveta V. , Shustova Elena Y. , Lukashev Alexander N.
Published: January 2024

More than 100 types of non-polio enteroviruses (NPEVs) are ubiquitous in the human population and cause a variety of symptoms ranging from very mild to meningitis and acute flaccid paralysis (AFP). Much of the information regarding diverse pathogenic properties of NPEVs comes from the surveillance of poliovirus, which also yields NPEV. The analysis of 265 NPEV isolations from 10,433 AFP cases over 24 years of surveillance and more than 2500 NPEV findings in patients without severe neurological lesions suggests that types EV-A71, E13, and E25 were significantly associated with AFP. EV-A71 was also significantly more common among AFP patients who had fever at the onset and residual paralysis compared to all AFP cases. In addition, a significant disparity was noticed between types that were common in humans (CV-A2, CVA9, EV-A71, E9, and E30) or in sewage (CVA7, E3, E7, E11, E12, and E19). Therefore, there is significant evidence of non-polio viruses being implicated in severe neurological lesions, but further multicenter studies using uniform methodology are needed for a definitive conclusion.
Temporal and Spatial Distribution of Phytoplankton and Role of Environment Factors in the Shending River Backwater in the Danjiangkou Reservoir Area
Authors: Wang Bo , Luo Lingxi , Mei Liyong , Zeng Hui
Published: January 2024

The Danjiangkou Reservoir supplies drinking water to most residents in northern China. However, signs of eutrophication have been observed in the inlet tributaries of the reservoir, including the Shending River backwater. This research used data from the Sentinel-2 Multispectral instrument and findings from a 2021 aquatic ecological survey to analyze the spatial and temporal characteristics of phytoplankton distribution in the Shending River backwater region. The average chlorophyll a (Chl-a) concentrations by season, ranked from largest to smallest, are as follows: summer (63.96 μg/L) > autumn (41.26 μg/L) > spring (27.47 μg/L) > winter (16.21 μg/L); the upstream of the backwater area and the near-shore tributary bay had relatively higher Chl-a concentration. Bacillariophyceae (Cyclotella meneghiniana and Synedra sp.) and Cryptophyceae species (Chroomonas acuta) were dominant in spring, whereas Chlorophyceae (Scenedesmus sp. and Chlorella vulgaris) and Cyanophyceae (Dactylococcopsis acicularis, Microcystis aeruginosa and Oscillatoria tenuis) species were dominant in summer. The seasonal succession characteristics of the phytoplankton community were consistent with those of the Plankton Ecology Group model. The average phytoplankton cell density was 4.80 × 107 cells/L, and the Shannon–Wiener average diversity index was 1.95, indicating that the Shending River backwater area was moderately eutrophic. According to Pearson correlation analysis and Mantel test, the main factors causing temporal and spatial differences in phytoplankton production in the Shending River’s backwater were water level (WL), water temperature (WT), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) and total nitrogen (TN). In particular, WL was significantly positively correlated with Bacillariophyceae, Chlorophyceae and Cyanophyceae, whereas WT was significantly correlated with Cryptophyceae and Chlorophyceae. NH3-N and TN were significantly correlated with Cyanophyceae. Therefore, intensive nitrogen removal from the tailwater of sewage treatment plants may be considered a feasible measure to prevent cyanobacterial bloom in the Shending River backwater of the Danjiangkou Reservoir.
A.P. Rudanovsky and his ideas of balance sheet analysis as an enterprise model.
Authors: Glazko A. I.
Published: January 2024

This article is devoted to the contribution to the development of Russian accounting by one of the outstanding scientists of the XX century Alexander Pavlovich Rudanovsky. Particular attention is paid to balance sheet as a central category in the researcher’s works. In Rudanovsky’s works the balance sheet can be considered as a model in the modern sense of economic relations. Despite the fact that Rudanovsky’s ideas were not subsequently developed by Soviet economists, they were highly appreciated and inspired post-Soviet researchers to updated concepts. Thus, the study of its theoretical provisions remains relevant.
Neuroestimulação vagal e profunda na epilepsia refratária: uma revisão de escopo
Authors: Cavalcanti Lívia Barbosa , Martins Caio César Leite , Lira Giovanna Rodrigues , Quintino Helena Alessandrine Santiago , Lisboa João Pedro de Almeida Roque , Costa Lays Sthefany Siqueira da , Dantas Brícia Maia Leite , Silva Ludmila Belo Ramos da , Silva Hugo Rafael de Souza e
Published: January 2024

Objetivo. Esta revisão de escopo busca comparar a eficácia e os efeitos colaterais e adversos das técnicas de Estimulação do Nervo Vago (ENV) e da Estimulação Cerebral Profunda (ECP) no tratamento da epilepsia refratária. Método. A pergunta de pesquisa elaborada a partir da metodologia Population/Patient/Problem, Intervention, Control/Comparison, Outcome (PICO) norteou a busca nas bases de dados BVS, SciELO e MEDLINE/PubMed. Resultados. 164 artigos foram identificados, mas apenas 7 deles foram incluídos. As técnicas de neuroestimulação foram analisadas em sua eficácia a partir do percentual de redução de crises convulsivas em um período de tempo, sendo observadas de forma isolada, combinada, ou comparando-as entre si. Em ambas as técnicas o percentual de eficácia aumenta com o tempo. Ademais, apesar de seu uso combinado não ser, aparentemente, prejudicial, não existem evidências suficientes para sustentar que tal aplicação fornece melhores resultados. Por último, foi notado que, apesar de a eficácia aparentar ser maior no ECP, ainda são necessários mais estudos para confirmar tal afirmativa. Conclusão. Embora a ENV seja associada a menos efeitos colaterais, a ECP tende a ser mais eficaz na redução das crises epilépticas em casos de epilepsia refratária. A escolha entre essas abordagens deve ser personalizada, considerando as necessidades individuais dos pacientes e os riscos associados a cada técnica.
Effects of hexarelin and isolation stress on the Met-enkephalin system in young lambs
Authors: Koziec Krystyna , Scanes Colin Guy , Zubel-Łojek Joanna , Gajewska Alina
Published: January 2024

Koziec K., S canes C.G., Z ubel-Łojek J., Gajewska A. 2023. Effects of hexarelin and isolation stress on the Met-enkephalin system in young lambs. Folia Biologica (Kraków) 71: 195-206.Stress stands out as the primary instigator of numerous diseases – ranging from
cardiovascular and gastro- intestinal to diabetes and nervous disturbances – in most developed nations. Endogenous opioid peptides (EOP), particularly Met-enkephalin, play a crucial role in mitigating the up-regulation of the hypothalamo- pituitary-adrenal axis during stress responses,
consequently reducing the risk of serious diseases. Hexarelin, a synthetic analog of Met-enkephalin, has been predominantly investigated for its impact on growth hormone (GH) release in both human subjects and rodent models. This study was undertaken to evaluate the influence of isolation
stress and/or hexarelin administration on various Met-enkephalin-related parameters in a novel animal model – 3-month-old lambs. Four distinct groups were established: a control group, a group intravenously injected with hexarelin, a group subjected to 60 min of isolation stress from
the herd, and a group treated with both hexarelin and stress. Blood and hypothalamus samples were collected to analyze cortisol and Met-enkephalin profiles, proenkephalin (PENK) gene expression, Met-enkephalin concentration, in vitro Met-enkephalin secretion, and opioid receptor binding.
The findings revealed a significant impact of stress on all assessed parameters. Hexarelin alone led to a decrease in cortisol levels and Met-enkephalin synthesis, release, and receptor binding in the hypothalamus. When administered prior to stress, hexarelin potentiated the responses of opioid
parameters to isolation. These results, for the first time, demonstrate that hexarelin interacts with Met-enkephalin, modulating the stress response at both central and peripheral levels in growing lambs. It is suggested that hexarelin plays a crucial role during stress responses; however,
further research on its effects should be conducted concurrently with the examination of opioid profiles.
Otimização da flotação de rejeitos de nióbio com o emprego do planejamento fatorial e análise de superfícies de resposta
Authors: Cândido Lívia Mara , Bosch Neto Juan Canellas , Nucci Edson Romano , De Castro Gláucio Ferreira , Parreira Carla Cristina Araújo , Cassin Ana Clara , Castro João Victor Sales , Guirlanda Christiano Pedro
Published: January 2024

Os rejeitos oriundos dos processos de concentração do minério de apatita geralmente apresentam uma série de contaminantes que não apresentam valor econômico associado, entretanto em alguns empreendimentos minerários o elevado teor de nióbio é um componente muito presente nas composições minerais de apatita aos quais estão associadas as rochas carbonáticas. Os minerais de nióbio são comumente encontrados em partículas de diâmetro extremamente finos e comumente são direcionados para os rejeitos que são dispostos em barragem. Essas partículas são encontradas nos fluxos dos rejeitos gerados no processamento da apatita da etapa cleaner da flotação de barita e recleaner do processo de flotação da apatita. Esses rejeitos foram incorporados ao atual material alimentado na planta de concentração por flotação do nióbio. Para o entendimento e maximizar dos resultados foi utilizada a ferramenta de projeto de experimentos e superfície de resposta com o objetivo de otimizar a recuperação metalúrgica e minimizar o teor de P2O5 contaminante que se apresentou superior na amostra composta através dos ensaios de flotação em bancada. De posse dos resultados foram calculadas as recuperações metalúrgicas e construídos os gráficos de pareto, superfície de resposta e contorno. A composição mostrou a possibilidade de se obter recuperações metalúrgicas de 69% e %P2O5 de 1,94% por meio da maximização dos fatores utilizados nos ensaios em dois níveis.
Tecnologias atuais para a segurança pública no estado do Paraná
Authors: Neppel Marcio Rogério
Published: January 2024

Inicialmente, cabe expor que a Polícia Militar do Estado do Paraná desempenha um papel de extrema importância na segurança e no bem-estar da população paranaense, de maneira que a sua atuação abrangente, que vai desde o policiamento ostensivo até o apoio em situações de emergências, contribui para a prevenção de crimes, a redução da criminalidade e a promoção da paz na comunidade. Logo, é inegável a importância da PMPR para a construção de uma sociedade mais segura e harmoniosa. Mais precisamente quando se está diante da segurança pública, trata-se de um tema que desperta grande interesse e preocupação na sociedade, eis que perfaz um meio de salvaguardar os demais direitos das pessoas, como a liberdade e a vida. Diante disso, torna-se indiscutível que a atuação da Polícia Militar do Paraná (PMPR) ganha destaque, pois é responsável por garantir a ordem e a tranquilidade no estado. Nesse enfoque, como meio de auxiliar a Polícia Militar do Estado do Paraná a alcançar resultados satisfatórios quanto à segurança pública, o emprego dos meios tecnológicos vem se mostrando um assunto bastante importante, razão pela qual será analisado a partir deste momento.
Good and effective EFL English teachers: the exploration of male and female students' perceptions
Authors: Damayanti Ketut Catri , Artini Luh Putu , Wahyuni Luh Gede Eka
Published: January 2024

This study aims to find out how male and female students perceive the characteristics of good and effective English teachers in Bali. This study uses a qualitative descriptive method developed by Miles and Huberman (1994). The sample comprises 70 female students and 77 male students. The data were collected through questionnaires and focus group discussions (FGD). The findings from the questionnaire show that both male and female students consider that a teacher who is a good friend for students is the most important characteristic of a good English teacher, and one who prepares lessons well and controls class time wisely as the most important characteristic of an effective English teacher. However, based on the data for good English teachers from the open-ended questionnaire and FGD, it seems male students are more realistic in giving their perceptions and tend to like learning that involves active discussions in class, while female students are more likely to like learning that requires them to only listen to teacher explanations in class. Both male and female students perceive an effective English teacher in the same way; they prefer teachers who can prepare lessons well, control class time wisely, and use interesting learning media such as pictures and videos to teach because it can maintain students motivation to learn English.
Middle-aged and Older People's Awareness of the Projects Provided by the Basic Mental Health Welfare Center
Authors:   Society of Occupational Therapy for the Aged and Dementia, Cho Mi-Lim , Park Soo-Hee
Published: January 2024

Objective : From September 1st to 30th 2023, an online survey was conducted on middle-aged and older people's nationwide. Total of 161 surveys were used as data and frequency analysis, Pearson chi-square test were performed using SPSS 25.0 program. Methods : From September 1st to 30th 2023, an online survey was conducted on middle-aged and older people's nationwide. Total of 161 surveys were used as data and frequency analysis, Pearson chi-square test were performed using SPSS 25.0 program. Results : As a result of the study, 'Don't know' showed the highest proportion in all projects except disaster health service support work. As a result of analyzing the level of awareness of the projects of the basic mental health welfare center according to general characteristics, the projects of the basic mental health welfare center, which showed a significant differences in the level of awareness depending on gender, age, residential area, marital status, child status, religion, highest academic qualification, type of occupation, family monthly income, family and relative experiences of mental illness, experience using the mental health welfare center. Among them, in the case of experience using the mental health welfare center, there was a exceptional difference in the level of perception in all projects. Conclusion : Active promotion of the projects and education on the use of mental health services should be conducted to raise the level of middle-aged and older people's awareness of the projects provided by the basic mental health welfare center and to provide effective mental health services for the public.
Mediating and Moderating Effects of Sedentary Time on the Relationship between Elderly Suicide Ideation and Quality of Life
Authors:   Society of Occupational Therapy for the Aged and Dementia, Cho Seung-Hyun
Published: January 2024

Objective : This study aims to analyze the impact of suicidal ideation on individuals’ quality of life, and to understand the role of sedentary time in this relationship, with a focus on the elderly population in preparation for the era of super-aging. Methods : Utilizing raw data from the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Korea National Health & Nutrition Examination Survey for the years 2019 and 2020, a total of 1,833 records were analyzed. Variables included gender, age, quality of life, perceived stress levels, suicidal ideation, physical activity status, subjective health, sedentary time, and depression diagnosis
status. Regression analysis was conducted to analyze the relationship between suicidal ideation and quality of life, and the Process Macro was employed to analyze the mediating and moderating effects of sedentary time. Results : Among the group with suicidal ideation, there were higher levels of stress, presence of suicide plans, lower levels of physical activity, and an overall decrease in quality of life. Subjective health status, sedentary time, and age were identified as factors influencing quality of life. Moreover, sedentary time was found to play a mediating role as well as a moderating role in the relationship between suicidal ideation and quality of life. Conclusion : The study confirms the negative impact of suicidal ideation on quality of life and elucidates the moderating role of sedentary behavior in this relationship. These findings provide critical insights for the development of strategies aimed at suicide prevention and improving quality of life. Recommendations include providing appropriate support to those experiencing suicidal ideation and promoting lifestyle modifications to reduce sedentary time, thereby maintaining and enhancing quality of life.
Socio-legal basis of criminal liability of legal persons and corporate compliance to prevent crimes: Anthropic approach and behavioral game theory
Authors: Aguilera Gordillo Rafael
Published: January 2024

Systems theory has garnered significant criticism from internationally recognized experts in the field of organizational analysis. However, a sector of criminal doctrine is adopting a strict approach to this theory to justify socio-legally the application of corporate criminal liability (this is a trend that has been embraced by the Spanish Supreme Court and is spreading throughout Latin America). The systemic idea of organization excludes the individuals who constitute and manage the company, dehumanizing it, separating corporate governance from the role played by individuals and even attributing human attributes to the company. In other words, the members that make up the organization, as well as the influences or constraints they generate in the context of the interaction of individuals within a corporation, are disregarded in the analysis. As an alternative, this text proposes the essential outlines of an "anthropic model" of corporate criminal liability, which is built on theoretically and experimentally validated notions and methodologies: neo-institutionalism, game theory and behavioral compliance. In this anthropic model, the adoption and implementation of an effective and adequate governance system to prevent irregularities (or crimes) does not depend on the system itself, but depends directly on the commitment and implementation of the "human component" of the organization.
La teoría de sistemas ha recibido críticas significativas por parte de expertos internacionalmente reconocidos en el campo del análisis de las organizaciones. Sin embargo, cierto sector de la doctrina penal está adoptando un enfoque estricto de esta teoría para justificar sociojurídicamente la aplicación de la responsabilidad penal de las empresas (una tendencia que ha sido aceptada por el Tribunal Supremo español y se está extendiendo por América Latina). La idea sistémica de la organización excluye del análisis a los individuos que constituyen y gestionan la empresa, deshumanizándola, separando la gobernanza corporativa del papel desempeñado por los individuos e incluso atribuyendo atributos humanos a la empresa. En otras palabras, se desestiman en el análisis penal tanto a los miembros que conforman la organización como a las influencias o constricciones que originan en ese contexto de interacción de individuos que configura la corporación. Como alternativa, se proponen los lineamientos esenciales de un “modelo antrópico” de responsabilidad penal corporativa, construido sobre nociones y metodologías teórica y experimentalmente validadas: neoinstitucionalismo, teoría de juegos y “behavioral compliance”. En este modelo antrópico, la adopción e implementación de un sistema de gobernanza efectivo y adecuado para prevenir irregularidades (o delitos) no depende del sistema en sí, sino que pende directamente del compromiso e implementación efectiva por parte del “componente humano” de la organización.