bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the impact of e-registration and mHealth on institutional delivery in hazard-prone areas of Bangladesh: A protocol for a non-randomized controlled cluster trial
Authors: Chowdhury Anika Tasneem , Jabeen Sabrina , Sultana Zeeba Zahra , Rahman Ahmed Ehsanur , Arifeen Shams El , Hossain Ahmed
Published: September 2023

Despite substantial progress, Bangladesh still has a high rate of maternal deaths owing to difficulties during pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period. Increasing facility delivery is mandatory to reach the goal of bringing down the MMR to <70 deaths/100,000 live births by 2030. In the era of digitalization, the introduction of e-registration and mHealth may aid the government in reaching this target. The southern part of Bangladesh is a hazard-prone area, where service uptake from institutions is low. This study aims to determine the effect of an e-registration tracking system and mHealth counseling on institutional deliveries to pregnant mothers in hazard-prone areas of southern Bangladesh. We will conduct an open-label, two-arm, non-randomized controlled cluster trial for six months and use three hazard-prone areas for intervention and another three hazard-prone areas for control. We will collect data at baseline and end-line of the study period using a structured questionnaire. We will enroll at least 268 pregnant mothers from the intervention and 268 pregnant mothers from the control areas after screening based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Pregnancy information will be obtained from the Family Welfare Assistant register. The respondents of the intervention arm will be registered in the e-Registration system, and receive voice call and text messages from the midwives to have their deliveries done in healthcare facilities. We will follow the participants until their delivery and exclude those respondents from the study who will have post-dated delivery, migrate out, lost to follow-up, or die during the study period. Random-intercept mixed-effect logistic regression will be performed to explain the relationship of e-registration and mHealth package with institutional delivery. Institutional delivery is still uncommon in Southern Bangladesh despite several interventions. Innovative approaches like e-registration and mHealth counseling may be helpful to bring women to health facilities. The findings from the study might enable the policy makers of Bangladesh to integrate the intervention package into the existing healthcare system. This experiment is registered in the open science framework.

Clinical trial registration: Registration number: DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/YZE5C) and https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ (registration number: NCT05398978.
What are the odds? Poor compliance with UK loot box probability disclosure industry self-regulation
Authors: Xiao Leon Y. , Henderson Laura L. , Newall Philip W. S.
Published: September 2023

Loot boxes are purchased in video games to obtain randomised rewards of varying value and are thus psychologically akin to gambling. Disclosing the probabilities of obtaining loot box rewards may reduce overspending, in a similar vein to related disclosure approaches in gambling. Presently, this consumer protection measure has been adopted as law only in the People’s Republic of China (PRC). In other countries, the videogaming industry has generally adopted this measure as self-regulation. However, self-regulation conflicts with commercial interests and might not maximally promote public welfare. The loot box prevalence rate amongst the 100 highest-grossing UK iPhone games was 77% in mid-2021. The compliance rate with probability disclosure industry self-regulation was only 64.0%, significantly lower than that of PRC legal regulation (95.6%). In addition, UK games generally made insufficiently prominent and difficult-to-access disclosures both in-game and on the game’s official website. Significantly fewer UK games disclosed probabilities on their official websites (21.3%) when compared to 72.5% of PRC games. Only one of 75 UK games (1.3%) adopted the most prominent disclosure format of automatically displaying the probabilities on the in-game purchase page. Policymakers should demand more accountable forms of industry self-regulation or impose direct legal regulation to ensure consumer protection.
Selection and validation of internal control genes for quantitative real-time RT‒qPCR normalization of Phlebopus portentosus gene expression under different conditions
Authors: Hu Chen-Menghui , Zhou Chen-Li , Wan Jia-Ning , Guo Ting , Ji Guang-Yan , Luo Shun-Zhen , Ji Kai-Ping , Cao Yang , Tan Qi , Bao Da-Peng , Yang Rui-Heng
Published: September 2023

Phlebopus portentosus (Berk. and Broome) Boedijn is an attractive edible mushroom and is considered the only bolete for which artificial cultivation in vitro has been achieved. Gene expression analysis has become widely used in research on edible fungi and is important for elucidating the functions of genes involved in complex biological processes. Selecting appropriate reference genes is crucial to ensuring reliable RT‒qPCR gene expression analysis results. In our study, a total of 12 candidate control genes were selected from 25 traditional housekeeping genes based on their expression stability in 9 transcriptomes of 3 developmental stages. These genes were further evaluated using geNorm, NormFinder, and RefFinder under different conditions and developmental stages. The results revealed that MSF1 domain-containing protein (MSF1), synaptobrevin (SYB), mitogen-activated protein kinase genes (MAPK), TATA-binding protein 1 (TBP1), and SPRY domain protein (SPRY) were the most stable reference genes in all sample treatments, while elongation factor 1-alpha (EF1), actin and ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme (UBCE) were the most unstably expressed. The gene SYB was selected based on the transcriptome results and was identified as a novel reference gene in P. portentosus. This is the first detailed study on the identification of reference genes in this fungus and may provide new insights into selecting genes and quantifying gene expression.
Microtomographic investigation of a large corpus of cichlids
Authors: Haberthür David , Law Mikki , Ford Kassandra , Häsler Marcel , Seehausen Ole , Hlushchuk Ruslan
Published: September 2023

A large collection of cichlids (N = 133) from Lake Victoria in Africa, with total lengths ranging from 6 to 18 cm was nondestructively imaged using micro-computed tomography. We present a method to efficiently obtain three-dimensional tomographic datasets of the oral and pharyngeal jaws and the whole skull of these fishes to accurately describe their morphology. The tomographic data we acquired (9.8 TB of projection images) yielded 1.5 TB of three-dimensional image stacks used for extracting the relevant features of interest. Herein we present our method and outlooks on analyzing the acquired data; a morphological description of the oral and pharyngeal jaws, a three-dimensional geometric morphometrics analysis of landmarked skull features, and a robust method to automatically extract otoliths from the tomographic data.
Physicians’ perception of task sharing with non-physician health care workers in the management of uncomplicated hypertension in Nigeria: A mixed method study
Authors: Adejumo Oluseyi Ademola , Ogundele Olorunfemi Akinbode , Mamven Manmak , Otubogun Folajimi Morenikeji , Junaid Oladimeji Adedeji , Okoye Ogochukwu Chinedum , Oyedepo Dapo Sunday , Osunbor Osariemen Augustine , Ngoka Stanley Chidozie , Enikuomehin Adenike Christianah , Okonkwo Kenechukwu Chukwuemeka , Akinbodewa Akinwumi Ayodeji , Lawal Olutoyin Morenike , Yusuf Shamsuddeen , Okaka Enajite Ibiene , Odu Joseph , Agogo Emmanuel , Osi Kufor , Nwude Ifeanyi , Odili Augustine Nonso
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Task sharing and task shifting (TSTS) in the management of hypertension is an important strategy to reduce the burden of hypertension in low-and middle-income countries like Nigeria where there is shortage of physicians below the World Health Organization’s recommendations on doctor-patient ratio. The cooperation of physicians is critical to the success of this strategy. We assessed physicians’ perception of TSTS with non-physician health workers in the management of hypertension and sought recommendations to facilitate the implementation of TSTS.

Materials and methods

This was an explanatory sequential mixed method study. TSTS perception was assessed quantitatively using a 12-item questionnaire with each item assigned a score on a 5-point Likert scale. The maximum obtainable score was 60 points and those with ≥42 points were classified as having a good perception of TSTS. Twenty physicians were subsequently interviewed for in-depth exploration of their perception of TSTS.

Results

A total of 1250 physicians participated in the quantitative aspect of the study. Among the participants, 56.6% had good perception of TSTS in the management of hypertension while about two-thirds (67.5%) agreed that TSTS program in the management of hypertension could be successfully implemented in Nigeria. Male gender (p = 0.019) and working in clinical settings (p = 0.039) were associated with good perception. Twenty physicians participated in the qualitative part of the study. Qualitative analysis showed that TSTS will improve overall care and outcomes of patients with hypertension, reduce physicians’ workload, improve their productivity, but may encourage inter-professional rivalry. Wide consultation with stakeholders, adequate monitoring and evaluation will facilitate successful implementation of TSTS in Nigeria.

Conclusion

This study showed that more than half of the physicians have good perception of TSTS in hypertension management while about two-thirds agreed that it could be successfully implemented in Nigeria. This study provides the needed evidence for increased advocacy for the implementation of TSTS in the management of hypertension in Nigeria. This will consequently result in improved patient care and outcomes and effective utilization of available health care personnel.
Higher in-hospital mortality in SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant infection compared to influenza infection—Insights from the CORONA Germany study
Authors: Dickow Jannis , Gunawardene Melanie A. , Willems Stephan , Feldhege Johannes , Wohlmuth Peter , Bachmann Martin , Bergmann Martin W. , Gesierich Wolfgang , Nowak Lorenz , Pape Ulrich-Frank , Schreiber Ruediger , Wirtz Sebastian , Twerenbold Raphael , Sheikhzadeh Sara , Gessler Nele
Published: September 2023

Background

With the emergence of new subvariants, the disease severity of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 has attenuated. This study aimed to compare the disease severity in patients hospitalized with omicron variant infection to those with influenza infection.

Methods

We compared data from the multicenter observational, prospective, epidemiological “CORONA Germany” (Clinical Outcome and Risk in hospitalized COVID-19 patients) study on patients infected with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 to retrospective data on influenza infection cases from November 2016 to August 2022. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 cases were classified as wild-type/delta variant before January 2022, or omicron variant from January 2022 onward. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality, adjusted for age, gender, and comorbidities.

Results

The study included 35,806 patients from 53 hospitals in Germany, including 4,916 patients (13.7%) with influenza infection, 16,654 patients (46.5%) with wild-type/delta variant infection, and 14,236 patients (39.8%) with omicron variant infection. In-hospital mortality was highest in patients with wild-type/delta variant infection (16.8%), followed by patients with omicron variant infection (8.4%) and patients with influenza infection (4.7%). In the adjusted analysis, higher age was the strongest predictor for in-hospital mortality (age 80 years vs. age 50 years: OR 4.25, 95% CI 3.10–5.83). Both, patients with wild-type/delta variant infection (OR 3.54, 95% CI 3.02–4.15) and patients with omicron variant infection (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.32–1.84) had a higher risk for in-hospital mortality than patients with influenza infection.

Conclusion

After adjusting for age, gender and comorbidities, patients with wild-type/delta variant infection had the highest risk for in-hospital mortality compared to patients with influenza infection. Even for patients with omicron variant infection, the adjusted risk for in-hospital mortality was higher than for patients with influenza infection. The adjusted risk for in-hospital mortality showed a strong age dependency across all virus types and variants.

Trial registration number

NCT04659187.
Endemic infectious cutaneous ulcers syndrome in the Oti Region of Ghana: Study of cutaneous leishmaniasis, yaws and Haemophilus ducreyi cutaneous ulcers
Authors: Akuffo Richard Adjei , Sanchez Carmen , Amanor Ivy , Amedior Jennifer Seyram , Kotey Nana Konama , Anto Francis , Azurago Thomas , Ablordey Anthony , Owusu-Antwi Felicia , Beshah Abate , Amoako Yaw Ampem , Phillips Richard Odame , Wilson Michael , Asiedu Kingsley , Ruiz-Postigo Jose-Antonio , Moreno Javier , Mokni Mourad
Published: September 2023

Background

A recent study detected cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in 31.9% of persons with skin ulcers in the Oti Region of Ghana, resulting in a need to investigate other potential causes of the unexplained skin ulcers.

Methodology/Principal findings

A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in the Oti region to investigate skin ulcers of undetermined aetiologies. To confirm a diagnosis of cutaneous leishmaniasis, Buruli ulcer, Haemophilus ducreyi ulcers, or yaws, DNA obtained from each patient skin ulcer sample was systematically subjected to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Leishmania spp., Mycobacterium ulcerans, Haemophilus ducreyi, and Treponema pallidum sub species pertenue. A total of 101 skin ulcer samples were obtained from 101 persons. Co-infection of more than one organism was observed in 68.3% of the samples. Forty (39.6%) participants had a positive result for Leishmania spp., 68 (67.3%) for Treponema pallidum sub. Sp. pertenue, and 74 (73.3%) for H. ducreyi. Twenty (19.8%) of the patient ulcers were simultaneously infected with Leishmania spp., Treponema pallidum sub. Sp. pertenue, and H. ducreyi. None of the patients’ lesions yielded a positive result for Mycobacterium ulcerans.

Conclusions/Significance

This study detected single and mixed occurrence of the causative organisms of CL, yaws, and H. ducreyi cutaneous ulcers in CL endemic communities of the Oti Region in Ghana. These findings emphasize the importance of integrating multiple skin diseases on a common research platform and calls for the development of a comprehensive guideline for diagnosing and treating tropical ulcers in the study areas.
Managers’ experience of causes and prevention of sick leave among young employees with Common Mental Disorders (CMDs)–A qualitative interview study with a gender perspective
Authors: Tinnerholm Ljungberg Helena , Olsson Caroline , Jensen Irene , Nybergh Lotta , Björk Brämberg Elisabeth
Published: September 2023

Background

Young adults entering the workforce have an almost 40% greater risk of work-related mental health problems than other working age groups. Common mental disorders (CMDs) constitute the majority of such mental health problems. Managers are crucial in promoting a good psychosocial work environment and preventing sick leave. The study aims to explore managers’ experience of 1) causes of sick leave in the personal and work-life of young employees with CMDs, and 2) prevention of such sick leave. A gender perspective is applied to examine managers’ experience of causes and prevention of sick leave in relation to male and female employees and male and female-dominated occupations.

Material and methods

A qualitative design was applied and 23 semi-structured interviews were conducted with Swedish managers experienced in supervising young employees with CMDs. The interviews were analysed with conventional content analysis and the managers’ experience of similarities and differences between young female and male employees and occupations were explored through reflective notes.

Results

Four main categories and eight subcategories describe the managers’ experience of the causes of sick leave due to CMD among young employees. The main categories are: 1) entering work life when already worn-out, 2) struggling with too high expectations at work, 3) having a challenging personal life, and 4) being unable to manage specific occupational challenges and demands. Gender differences were found in six subcategories regarding, e.g., work demands and problems in personal relationships. One main category and three subcategories describe how this type of sick leave might be prevented, with managers emphasizing the need to ease the transition into work life. Gender differences in the prevention of sick leave were found in one subcategory regarding communication about workers’ health and problems at work.

Conclusion

Our findings show that gender norms and the expectations of young men and women are factors of importance in managers’ experience of the development and prevention of CMDs. These results can inform their preventive work and their supervision and introduction of newly-employed young adults.
Effects of Heparan sulfate acetyl-CoA: Alpha-glucosaminide N-acetyltransferase (HGSNAT) inactivation on the structure and function of epithelial and immune cells of the testis and epididymis and sperm parameters in adult mice
Authors: Carvelli Lorena , Hermo Louis , O’Flaherty Cristian , Oko Richard , Pshezhetsky Alexey V. , Morales Carlos R.
Published: September 2023

Heparan sulfate (HS), an abundant component of the apical cell surface and basement membrane, belongs to the glycosaminoglycan family of carbohydrates covalently linked to proteins called heparan sulfate proteoglycans. After endocytosis, HS is degraded in the lysosome by several enzymes, including heparan-alpha-glucosaminide N-acetyltransferase (HGSNAT), and in its absence causes Mucopolysaccharidosis III type C (Sanfilippo type C). Since endocytosis occurs in epithelial cells of the testis and epididymis, we examined the morphological effects ofHgsnatinactivation in these organs. In the testis,Hgsnatknockout (Hgsnat-Geo) mice revealed statistically significant decrease in tubule and epithelial profile area of seminiferous tubules. Electron microscopy (EM) analysis revealed cross-sectional tubule profiles with normal and moderately to severely altered appearances. Abnormalities in Sertoli cells and blood-testis barrier and the absence of germ cells in some tubules were noted along with altered morphology of sperm, sperm motility parameters and a reduction in fertilization ratesin vitro. Along with quantitatively increased epithelial and tubular profile areas in the epididymis, EM demonstrated significant accumulations of electrolucent lysosomes in the caput-cauda regions that were reactive for cathepsin D and prosaposin antibodies. Lysosomes with similar storage materials were also found in basal, clear and myoid cells. In the mid/basal region of the epithelium of caput-cauda regions of KO mice, large vacuolated cells, unreactive for cytokeratin 5, a basal cell marker, were identified morphologically as epididymal mononuclear phagocytes (eMPs). The cytoplasm of the eMPs was occupied by a gigantic lysosome suggesting an active role of these cells in removing debris from the epithelium. Some eMPs were found in proximity to T-lymphocytes, a feature of dendritic cells. Taken together, our results reveal that uponHgsnatinactivation, morphological alterations occur to the testis affecting sperm morphology and motility parameters and abnormal lysosomes in epididymal epithelial cells, indicative of a lysosomal storage disease.
Gastrointestinal Candidiasis in Malnourished Children with Diarrhoea
Authors: Sunoto Sunoto , Suharyono Suharyono , Gracey Michael
Published: September 2023

It is known that the frequency of intestinal Candidiasis in infants and children below 3 years of age is very high, particularly in malnourished children. It has been shown also that Candida can reduce the absorption of sugar, water and electrolytes (Burke et al., I977; Thelen et al., I978).

Recently we have studied the frequency of gastrointestinal Candidiasis and the Candida-killing-ability of leucocytes in Indonesian children.

Species of Candida were found significantly more often in throat swabs, gastric, small intestinal contents and stools of malnourished children in comparison with specimens of reasonably well-nourished children.

Furthermore there were marked qualitative differences in the species found in these groups according to their nutritional status.

Studying the Candidacidal activity of leucocytes it shows that in malnourished children the killing-ability is significantly lower than in well-nourished children. These findings suggest that gastrointestinal Candidiasis may contribute to the pathogenesis of diarrhoea in malnourished children.
Nutritional Status of Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever in Children
Authors: Sugiyanto Sugiyanto , Sebodo Teluk , Sutaryo Sutaryo , Sumanto Sumanto , Ismangoen Ismangoen
Published: September 2023

Shock in Dengue infection is especially caused by an immunologic process (secondary reaction).

This process may occur when the activity of Lymphocytes (C.M.l.), complement system and macrophages is good. This activity, however is disturbed in undernutrition.

In this study on 126 DHF/DSS patients, fulfilling the WHO criteria (1975), the cases of shock were mostly found in patients with a body weight of more than 80% Harvard standard.

There was no case of shock, in patients with a nutritional status under 60% of the Harvard standard.
The Problems and Demands of Children in Indonesia for the Next Twenty Years
Authors: Ranuh I.G.N. Gde
Published: September 2023

Indonesia as is the case with other developing countries has a "young" population of which 43% conists of a populatdon of underfifteen.

Since we know that these children will be the back bone of our nation in the future, efforts to support the endeavour to promote child health will be very beneficial for a long term program.

We ought to be happy that the long term health program in Indonesia is directed to the young and productive section of the community and attention is especially given to the low income section or to those in the rural areas.
Crenças de Autoeficácia de estudantes da licenciatura em Física em relação ao ensino inclusivo
Authors: Cozendey Sabrina Gomes , Costa Maria da Piedade Resende da
Published: September 2023

Para que a inclusão de fato funcione é necessário que os professores estejam preparados para receber os alunos público alvo da educação especial (PAEE). As políticas em prol da inclusão intensificaram-se a partir da década de 90, ou seja, já temos mais de 20 anos de discussões sobre a necessidade de formar professores para atuar junto aos alunos PAEE como prevê a Lei de Diretrizes e Bases da Educação Nacional.  Mas como está ocorrendo a formação dos professores? Os licenciandos estão recebendo uma formação que os possibilitem incluir adequadamente os alunos PAEE nas aulas? O que os licenciandos pensam sobre sua formação? No presente trabalho busca-se analisar se os formandos de um curso de Licenciatura em Física se sentem aptos a trabalhar com alunos PAEE. Para fazer esta análise utilizamos os estudos desenvolvidos por Bandura sobre Crenças de Autoeficácia. Participaram da pesquisa sete estudantes de um curso de licenciatura em Física, que responderam a dois instrumentos de coleta de dados: um questionário de escala Likert e um questionário aberto. Ao analisar os dados coletados pode-se concluir que os participantes da pesquisa não se sentem aptos a atuarem em turmas inclusivas e que a formação que estes licenciandos estão recebendo não visa prepará-los para trabalhar com alunos PAEE.
Programa Institucional de Bolsas de Iniciação à Docência (PIBID): aproximação entre Educação Básica e Superior
Authors: Sousa Raimunda Áurea Dias de , Cusati Iracema Campos
Published: September 2023

Este trabalho de investigação foi desenvolvido em meio a um processo de formação inicial no curso de Geografia articulado às experiências escolares viabilizadas pelo Programa Institucional de Bolsas e Iniciação à Docência (PIBID) em parceria com as escolas públicas da Educação Básica. Com o objetivo de analisar as contribuições elucidadas pela implementação do programa tanto na formação dos licenciandos quanto e na aproximação entre Educação Básica e Superior, este estudo destaca a relevância formativa da inserção dos licenciandos no cotidiano escolar desde o início da formação acadêmica, além dos aspectos da criação do “novo PIBID” diante do momento histórico vivenciado no Brasil, mostrando a diferença entre o atual e o programa anterior que foi encerrado no início de 2018. A proposta de uma formação de professores integrada às práticas de pesquisa e articulada às demandas surgidas no exercício docente, bem como os elementos que subjazem a construção dessa profissionalidade e os principais aspectos que afetam o desenvolvimento profissional de professores, foram analisados. Numa abordagem qualitativa e quantitativa de natureza interpretativa e analítica, utilizando de questionários, documentos oficiais e notas de campo para a coleta e análise das informações, este estudo expõe a relevância formativa da inserção dos licenciandos no cotidiano escolar desde o início da formação acadêmica, os aspectos da criação do “novo PIBID” e a necessidade de utilizar a educação como mecanismo de inversão da ordem social vigente. Conclui-se que a socialização de práticas pedagógicas e o trabalho sistemático em grupos colaborativos que priorizam a realidade dos alunos, foram aspectos formativos identificados como positivos a partir do PIBID.
TRAV26-2 T-Cell Receptor Expression Is Associated With Mucosal Lymphocyte Response to Wheat Proteins in Patients With Functional Dyspepsia
Authors: Burns Grace L. , Potter Michael , Mathe Andrea , Bruce Jessica , Minahan Kyra , Barnes Jessica L. , Pryor Jennifer , Nieva Cheenie , Sherwin Simonne , Cuskelly Annalisa , Fairlie Thomas , Cameron Raquel , Bollipo Steven , Irani Mudar Zand , Foster Robert , Gan Lay T. , Shah Ayesha , Koloski Natasha , Foster Paul S. , Horvat Jay C. , Walker Marjorie M. , Powell Nick , Veysey Martin , Duncanson Kerith , Holtmann Gerald , Talley Nicholas J. , Keely Simon
Published: September 2023

INTRODUCTION:

An association between functional dyspepsia (FD) and wheat-containing foods has been reported in observational studies; however, an adaptive response has not been demonstrated. We examined whether antigens present in wheat could provoke a response from FD duodenal lymphocytes.

METHODS:

Lamina propria mononuclear cells (LPMCs) were isolated from duodenal biopsies from 50 patients with FD and 23 controls. LPMCs were exposed to gluten (0.2 mg/mL) or gliadin (0.2 mg/mL) for 24 hours. Flow cytometry was performed to phenotype lymphocytes. Quantitative PCR was used to measure the expression of gliadin-associated T-cell receptor alpha variant (TRAV)26-2.

RESULTS:

In response to gliadin (but not gluten) stimulation, the effector Th2-like population was increased in FD LPMCs compared with that in controls and unstimulated FD LPMCs. Duodenal gene expression of TRAV26-2 was decreased in patients with FD compared with that in controls. We identified a positive association between gene expression of this T-cell receptor variant and LPMC effector Th17-like cell populations in patients with FD, but not controls after exposure to gluten, but not gliadin.

DISCUSSION:

Our findings suggest that gliadin exposure provokes a duodenal effector Th2-like response in patients with FD, supporting the notion that food antigens drive responses in some patients. Furthermore, these findings suggest that altered lymphocyte responses to wheat proteins play a role in FD pathogenesis.
Mapping the lifelines: how the design of infrastructure networks impacts on transformation in dispersed territories
Authors: Leemans Sophie , Van Daele Erik , Gheysen Maarten , Neuhaus Fabian , Robertson Natalie
Published: September 2023

Besides compact cities, Western Europe is characterised by low-density dispersion, resulting in a landscape with elements of both city and land. These dispersed territories offer an alternative to a traditional urban–rural dichotomy framework and have been put forward as twenty-first-century cities. However, these territories are currently facing urgent and complex socio-economic and ecological challenges. One such territory is the Eurometropolis Lille–Kortrijk–Tournai, a transnational region on the border of Belgium and France. The hypothesis is that the evolution of the Eurometropolis territory is closely intertwined with its infrastructure networks. The structure of this article is threefold. First, it describes the non-binary condition in which the Eurometropolis is situated. Second, it analyses the evolution of infrastructure networks in the Eurometropolis from the late eighteenth century to today through case studies. Third, it highlights the potential future role of infrastructure networks in providing answers to large-scale challenges. The research presented in this article demonstrates that transformation in dispersed territories is closely related to the evolution of their infrastructure networks. Moreover, infrastructure – such as waterways, railways and roads – has enabled an urban condition without urban form in the Eurometropolis dispersed territories. In the light of these findings, the article shows that the inherent nature of dispersed territories can be influenced by rethinking these infrastructures to proactively address the collective challenges at stake.
Location location location: A carbon footprint calculator for transparent travel to COP27
Authors: Barnsley Jonathan , Williams Jhénelle A , Chin-Yee Simon , Costello Anthony , Maslin Mark , McGlade Jacqueline , Taylor Richard , Winning Matthew , parikh priti
Published: September 2023

Addressing the large carbon footprint of conferences such as the UN Climate Change Convention Conference of the Parties (COP) will be important for maintaining public confidence in climate policy. Transparency is also a vital aspect of creating equitable outcomes in climate policies, as those most likely to be affected or who can create change on the ground are often unable to attend in person because of the high financial costs as well as having a large carbon footprint. The selection of host locations for the regular meetings of the UN Climate Change Convention is based on a rotation amongst the five UN regions, which for 2022 is Africa. Here, we present a carbon footprint calculator for travel to COP 27 in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, weighing the benefits of certain routes and modes of transport. The calculator demonstrates the well-known carbon-efficiency of coach and rail over flights but shows that these benefits are partly diminished in the case of COP 27 due to insufficient transport links from Europe to the conference location. However, we also highlight some of the benefits of hosting a COP in the global South, particularly in the context of climate justice. Users of the calculator are invited to consider all their options for travel and acknowledge the issue of climate justice through careful selection of carbon offsets.
Liver Protection Effect of Red Rose Petal Methanol Extract in Copper-Induced Liver Injury in Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Hutagalung Caroline Febrina , Girsang Ermi , Mutia Maya Sari , Suhartina Suhartina , Natali Oliviti
Published: September 2023

The human body requires low amounts of copper to maintain homeostasis, but high copper intake can cause various health problems. Many previous studies have been performed to look for natural products that can neutralize the excessive copper effect; one such natural product is a rose petal. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the liver protection effect of rose petals in copper-induced liver injury in male Wistar rats. This experimental study used thirty male Wistar rats that were grouped into five groups, including control, standard (quercetin), Rose Petal Methanol Extract-1 (400 mg/kg BW), 2 (800 mg/kg BW), and 3 (1,200 mg/kg BW). All groups were treated for 14 days, and all rats were given copper (II) sulfate suspension for the last three days. On the fifteenth day, all rats were sacrificed to obtain blood and liver tissue SGOT, SGPT, and liver histology study. The results showed that rose petal methanol extract significantly decreased SGOT and SGPT levels compared to the control group (P-value <0.05). The reduced area of ballooning degeneration and necrosis were in line with the increased dose of rose petal extract supported the liver protection effect of rose petal extract. Therefore, it can be concluded that rose petal methanol extract protects the liver against copper impacts.
In Silico BCell Epitope Design of Zika Virus Vaccine Using “Zika Virus Isolate Zika Virus/H sapiensTc/Tha/2006/CVD_06020 Complete Genome”
Authors: Savitri Lisa , Juwita Syntia Tanu , Antoro Ester Lianawati , Wulansari Ida Septika , Sukmawati Datin An Nisa , Freitas João Gregório , Ornai Andre Mario Sequeira Alves
Published: September 2023

ZIKV has been found in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and brains of adults infected with viruses that manifest neurological disorders. ZIKV is a mosquito-borne single-stranded RNA virus, which belongs to the family Flaviviridae. The efforts of the scientific community have rapidly increased knowledge about this virus. However, understanding the complexities of ZIKV infection, transmission and pathogenesis remains an urgent challenge. Therefore, it is critical to study competent vectors and natural reservoirs for ZIKV, viral genetic diversity and flavivirus coinfection. Due to the great challenges to develop a ZIKV vaccine, it is still not possible to be immunized against ZIKV infection and related pathologies. The methods are nucleotide search for the Zika virus was carried out in silico, using the NCBI bioinformatics application by providing access to biomedical and genomic information. /H. sapiens-tc/THA/2006/CVD_06-020, the complete genome was then searched for FASTA, then prediction of vaccine epitope using the IEDB. The vaccine candidate peptides were analyzed for their antigenicity using VaxiJen. Proteins were classified by AllerTop to known allergenicity, then ToxinPred to predict and design toxic/non-toxic peptides. There are 30 peptide sequences are predicted to be a candidate of peptides B-cell epitope zika virus vaccine design using “zika virus isolate zika virus/H. sapiens-tc/THA/2006/CVD_06-020, complete genome”.
Ethically Digital: Contested Cultural Heritage in Digital Context
Authors: Rouhani Bijan
Published: September 2023

Over the past century, our understanding of cultural heritage has evolved, and now, heritage is seen more as a process than a product. Although the advancement of digital technologies has significantly aided in the research, protection, management, interpretation, and education of cultural heritage, it also raises the question of how far this technology works in accordance with our current understanding of heritage as a process and is not taking a reductionist approach, in which heritage is cut off from its community and context. Ethical risks are higher for contested heritage, when meaning and values are questioned, or when people's ability to access and enjoy heritage is threatened. This paper discusses potential ethical risks regarding access, control, dissemination, and the digital economy by looking at existing approaches, guidelines, and principles in this field and a few digital heritage projects about contested heritage, and it questions whether the lack of an inclusive ethical framework could lead to a new kind of digital colonisation.
Citizen participation in resilient society: historical insights and monitoring trends of the EU’s policy and institutions
Authors: Olimid Anca Parmena
Published: September 2023

Resilient society and social dialogue are core topics for monitoring citizens’ initiative in participatory democracy as an engaged citizen often empowers governance facilitating active social engagement and democratic. (1) Background: The intent of the current research is to document and monitor the notion of “resilient society” and twenty associated topics in order to provide the latest emerging illustrations of the impact of social media on citizens’ initiative and participation levels in the European Union (EU); (2) Methods: Based on the Brand24 media monitoring tool, the quantitative and qualitative analysis of the social media reach focuses a period of one month (June-July 2023) with the aim to assess a better understanding of the resilient society and citizens’ participation; (3) Results and findings: The results of the research emphasize the role of citizens’ engagement and social dialogue for a resilient society by scaling the linkages between the historical, institutional and participative levels; (4) Discussion: The article shows how policy agenda and decisions, historical facts and social realities influence the social media reach and highlights the outcomes of the sentiment analysis and influence score of the selected topics.
Investigating pyrolysis characteristics of Shengdong coal through Py-GC/MS
Authors: Su Xiaoping , Wang Xiangtong , Li Ning , Shen Tao , Zhang Ping , Sun Ming , Ma Xiaoxun
Published: September 2023

Shengdong coal was single-step and multi-step pyrolyzed by pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. In the single-step pyrolysis process, Mono-ring aromatics contents reach a maximum value at 800°C, while phenolic contents are significantly reduced, which might be attributed to the dehydroxylation of phenolics. Naphthalene content also reaches a maximum value at 800°C in the single-step pyrolysis process; however, naphthalene was not detected in the multi-step pyrolysis process. So naphthalene might come from the ring-opening of multi-ring aromatics or the cyclization of mono-ring aromatics in the single-step pyrolysis process. Only phenol and o-cresol were detected, but no p-cresol in the multi-step pyrolysis process; however, p-cresol content reaches a maximum value at 800°C, meanwhile, phenol content was decreased and o-cresol was disappeared in the single-step pyrolysis process, which suggests that p-cresol may be derived from isomerization of o-cresol or alkylation of phenol. It provides an idea for strengthening more basic research related to the rapid pyrolysis of coal.
On the quadratic residues and their distribution properties
Authors: Liu Xiaoge , Meng Yuanyuan
Published: September 2023

The main purpose of this article is to use elementary methods and properties of classical Gauss sums to determine identities for the number of residue systems of

a

a

mod

p

p

such that

a

a

,

a
+

a

¯

a+\bar{a}

, and

a
−

a

¯

a-\bar{a}

are all quadratic residues, improving on results of Wang and Lv.
Research on absolute ranging technology of resampling phase comparison method based on FMCW
Authors: Sun Bin , Song Junfang , Wang Chao , Li Lanlan , Tan Linqiu
Published: September 2023

As an advanced optical precision ranging method, FMCW (frequency-modulated continuous-wave) laser interferometric ranging technology can achieve a large-scale and high-precision absolute distance measurement, so it has high research and application value in the field of coordinate measurement in large space. How to improve the resolution and stability of laser interferometry is a research difficulty in this technology. Based on FMCW laser interferometry relative distance technology, a method for achieving absolute distance measurement through phase comparison after repeated sampling is proposed. Using the FMCW laser distance measuring system, two interference optical paths of measuring interferometer and auxiliary interferometer are constructed, respectively. Synchronous sampling is performed on two interference signals, and the phase ratio of the two interference signals is obtained through the extracted frequency information. The optical path difference of the unknown measurement interferometer is derived from the known auxiliary interferometer information. This method uses a triangular wave modulation laser to reduce the influence of Doppler frequency shift and eliminate quantization errors. By using the fixed-point repeated sampling, the optical path difference information is quickly extracted, and the nonlinear error of laser interference frequency modulation is effectively reduced.
Wetting behaviour of ionic surfactants on the aluminium foil
Authors: Rai Summi , Rauniyar Bishnu Shau , Bhattarai Ajaya
Published: September 2023

Aluminium foil is a versatile material used in various industries, but its inherent low wettability limits its application. Surfactant can be used as effective agents for enhancing the wettability, enabling improved surface interactions and performance. In this study, we investigated the wettability of anionic (SDS and AOT) and cationic (CTAB) surfactants prepared in water as well as in isopropanol-water solvents with the four different volume fractions (0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4) on aluminium foil surfaces by measuring the contact angle. As the volume fraction of isopropanol on aluminium foil increases, the contact angle of SDS, CTAB, and AOT increases whereas the surface free energy decreases, indicating the hydrophobic nature of the surface. This trend is observed with the increasing concentrations of various solvents used. The adhesion work exhibits a linear increase with alcohol surface tension. A curvilinear variation is observed in the plots between cos

θ

$\theta $

and 1/

γ
SL

$\sqrt{{\gamma }_{\text{SL}}}$

. The plots of adhesion work versus contact angles show non-linear variation. Additionally, the plot of cos

θ

$\theta $

against the surface tension of alcohol and adhesion work against log C exhibit curvilinear variation. With these results, the article aims to provide valuable insights into the application of surfactants for improving the wettability of aluminium foil.
Characterization of Born Carbide and Rice Husk Ash Reinforced Aluminum Alloy Composites
Authors: Muralimohan R. , Kempaiah U. N. , Veeresh Kumar G. B.
Published: September 2023

The remarkable characteristics of aluminum alloys, like their hardness, strength-to-weight ratio, fatigue, corrosion resistance, play a decisive role in the aeronautical and automotive industries. However, scientists are on the lookout for substantial advancements in the wear resistance of the composites under varied service situations. This investigation focuses on the characteristics of hybrid metal matrix composites with regards to optical, physical, mechanical, tribological, and corrosion behavior of ADC12 alloy reinforced by born carbide and rice husk ash (RHA) particulates. The liquid metallurgy process with the stir casting technique was used to produce the hybrid composites, which were then compared to monolithic materials. In the fabrication, reinforcement RHA was added from 0 to 12 % while maintaining a born carbide content of 5 %. Following ASTM standards, the resulting composites were put through optical, several physical, mechanical, wear, and corrosion testing. The experimental findings were then analyzed. With a rise in the amount of reinforcement in the base alloy, physical and mechanical characteristics greatly improved, whereas the percentage of elongation was seen to decline. The effects of exposure time were studied on the hybrid composites on corrosion behavior in acidic environments. The composites are exposed to the hydrochloric acid solution, and weight loss over various periods, from 12 to 72 h, is measured in steps of 12 h. It was discovered that the corrosion resistance increased as the reinforcing content increased. By using a pin-on-disc apparatus, the wear tests were conducted, and the outcomes indicated the composites’ superior wear resistance. Composites with a higher percentage of reinforcement displayed superior characteristics. Following the tensile testing, broken surfaces, wear, and corrosion morphology are examined in scanning electron microscope images. The research findings are thoroughly examined, and careful interpretations have been made.
JENARO PINDÚ E A COLLAGE
Authors: De Souza Rocha Ricardo
Published: September 2023

Partindo de uma viagem (iniciática) para travar contato com a arquitetura contemporânea paraguaia, em sua investigação conciliando artesanato e experimentação, o texto apresenta (o encontro do autor com) a obra de Jenaro Pindú, através de cinco edifícios visitados em 2023. Em meio às vanguardas sul-americanas desconhecidas, Pindú desenvolveu sua poética através da experimentação artística, portanto artesanal, incluindo a collage, em uma produção arquitetônica que, ao desafiar os rótulos “colonialistas”, resta por ser melhor conhecida fora do Paraguai. do Paraguai.
PROPRIEDADE IMAGINÁRIA E A COLA DESFEITA
Authors: Martins Floriano
Published: September 2023

Em uma dança entre as imagens e as palavras, Floriano Martins nos leva a percorrer sua tessitura, deambulando pelo processo da collage como composição de si.
COLLAGE E EDUCAÇÃO
Authors: Gustavo Guimarães Luis
Published: September 2023

Este texto tem por proposição refletir sobre a collage na educação a partir de experimentações em oficinas para estudantes. A relação entre a collage e a educação foi recortada à luz dos conceitos de collage tecidos por Fuão (2011), conceito de experiência proposto por Larrosa (2015) e das questões éticas e emancipadoras por Freire (1996) e Rancière (2015). As reflexões das experiências práticas se colaram a partir de pistas/recortes sobre a realização de oficinas de Collage para jovens e adultos em contexto profissional-formativo discutidas na tese em andamento intitulada “Collage, Corpo e Educação” do meu doutoramento em educação, em curso na Faculdade de Educação na Universidade Estadual de Campinas, enquanto professor-artistaformador e, de pistas/recortes de experiências vivenciadas no contexto acadêmico e artístico enquanto professor-artista-pesquisador participante de oficinas de collage em diferentes espaços.
GLOSSÁRIO DA COLLAGE
Authors: Neves da Silva Gladys
Published: September 2023

Este artigo foi extraído da minha dissertação de Mestrado “Arquitetura & Collage- um catálogo de obras relevantes do Século XX”, sob a orientação de Fernando Fuão_ Propar/UFRGS_2005. Resgata a retórica e a poética da collage através das análises efetuadas por diferentes autores como Fernando Fuão, Simón Fiz, Sergio Lima e outros e aglutina em forma de um Glossário Ilustrativo. Converte estes procedimentos num recurso didático capaz de explorar ainda mais o processo criativo da Collage. A elaboração do Glossário reforça a ideia de que fazer collage, não é só recortar e colar, mas de enriquecer este aprendizado e desenvolver a dimensão interpretativa das obras de Collages. A criação da collage como um conceito artístico atravessou o século XX até os nossos dias! Ela foi se transformando ao longo deste vasto período, em novas técnicas, novos procedimentos e novas denominações, resistindo ao longo do tempo, com toda a diversidade que o mundo contemporâneo impõe.
ARQUITETANDO NOVAS FORMAS DE PENSAR EM LITERATURA BRASILEIRA
Authors: Rodrigues da Silva Claudicélio
Published: September 2023

Esta é uma reflexão sobre a necessidade de reinventar formas e modos de pensar o ensino de literatura brasileira atualmente. É preciso deixar as estruturas conservadoras dos métodos de ensino do texto literário para ir atrás de um pensamento que seja revisor e crítico em relação ao que chamamos de história da literatura brasileira. Por isso, com base na experiência de ensino numa disciplina de literatura brasileira I, na UFC, que compreende os séculos XVI e XVII, discuto temas como leitura decolonial, giro decolonial e me aproximo da collage não apenas como um objeto estético, mas como um modo de pensar revisitar o passado sem pagar tributo ao pensamento eurocêntrico.