bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Piezoelectric Actuators – Recent Innovations 2024 –
Authors: Uchino Kenji
Published: January 2024

This article reviews recent innovations in piezoelectric actuators, then indicates the future research targets. In the materials, the piezoelectric performances of relaxor-lead titanate (PZN-PT, PMN-PT) single crystals have been improved significantly by an AC electric poling technique. Also new loss characterization techniques facilitate developing high-power density piezoelectrics. The RMS vibration velocity reaches 0.6 m/s in the k31 mode in lead zirconate titanate (PZT) nowadays, which corresponds to power density 30 W/cm3. Pb-free materials are urged due to the recent political regulation on toxic materials. In device designs, the original multilayer actuators (MLA) with Ag/Pd electrode have been switched to the ones with Cu or pure Ag, in order to suppress the heat generation, then to enhance the device power density. Piezoelectric micro-electro-mechanical-systems (MEMS’s) started to utilize the <1 0 0> oriented epitaxial films of rhombohedral PZT compositions, which exhibits enhanced piezoelectric properties. Also for higher-power applications, aero-sol deposition (AD) methods have been introduced to 10 -thick films. Regarding drive/control techniques in piezo-actuators, three developments are on-going, that is, “negative capacitance” power supplies for driving off-resonance (pseudo-DC) piezo-actuators, capacitive AC power supplies for efficiently driving resonance piezo-actuators, and DC/DC converters for harvesting electric energy from high-impedance piezoelectric devices under noise vibration. The applications of piezoelectric actuators in the 21st century seem to be oriented toward “politico-engineering” with four keywords, “cooperation, protection, reduction, and continuation”. The sustainability technologies include the following piezoelectric items: (a) Pb-free piezoelectrics, (b) ultrasonic technology for decomposing hazardous materials, (c) reduction of contamination gas, (d) piezoelectric energy harvesting, and (e) device improvement with high energy-efficiency. On the other hand, the following crisis technologies have been developed with piezoelectrics: (a) detection and neutralization technologies of infectious/epidemic diseases such as anthrax, (b) autonomous unmanned underwater, aerial, and land vehicles with piezoelectric actuators, (c) pin-point target weapons, (d) high voltage supplies with piezoelectric transformers, and (e) compact energy sources for remote actuating/sensing systems.
Nanoparticle-Based Secretory Granules Induce a Specific and Long-Lasting Immune Response through Prolonged Antigen Release
Authors: Bosch-Camós Laia , Martínez-Torró Carlos , López-Laguna Hèctor , Lascorz Jara , Argilaguet Jordi , Villaverde Antonio , Rodríguez Fernando , Vázquez Esther
Published: January 2024

Developing prolonged antigen delivery systems that mimick the long-term exposure to pathogens appears as a promising, still poorly explored approach to reach durable immunities. In this study, we have used a simple technology by which his-tagged proteins can be assembled, assisted by divalent cations, as supramolecular complexes with progressive complexity, namely protein-only nanoparticles and microparticles. Microparticles produced out of nanoparticles are biomimetics of secretory granules from the mammalian hormonal system. Upon subcutaneous administration, they slowly disintegrate, acting as an endocrine-like secretory system, and rendering the building block nanoparticles progressively bioavailable. The performance of such materials, previously validated for drug delivery in oncology, has been tested here regarding the potential for time-prolonged antigen release. This has been done by taking, as building blocks, a nanostructured version of p30, a main structural immunogen from the African swine fever virus (ASFV). By challenging the system in both mice and pigs, we have observed unusually potent pro-inflammatory activity in porcine macrophages, and long-lasting humoral and cellular responses in vivo, which might overcome the need for an adjuvant. The robustness of both innate and adaptive responses tag, for the first time, these dynamic depot materials as a novel and valuable instrument with transversal applicability in immune stimulation and vaccinology.
Technology for Production of Wheat Doubled Haploid via Maize Pollen Induction – an Updated Review
Authors: Guan Xizhen , Peng Junhua , Fu Daolin
Published: January 2024

Keywords: Wheat; Speed Breeding; Maize Pollen Induction; Chromosome Elimination; Doubled Haploid (DH)
Achieving Gender Equity amongst the Liver Transplantation Medical and Surgical Workforce: Why Ongoing Actions Will Be Required
Authors: Verran Deborah
Published: January 2024

Until recently there was a paucity of published information on the demographics of themedical and surgical workforce for the subspecialty of liver transplantation. This is relevant as it relates to whether gender equity is being achieved across the workforce. This manuscript focuses on what eventually led to the recognition that more data were required along with what is now actually known. This involves exploring the genders of the liver transplant workforce along with their related academic activities. Potential solutions to address any ongoing imbalances are also examined. The extent and range of gender disparities previously reported for other cohorts of physicians and surgeons, are also apparent amongst the liver transplant workforce in most regions of the world. This also pertains to the higher leadership positions within liver transplant centers as well as for the relevant editorial and scientific congress roles. Common themes/recommendations are now emerging as to how best to address the lack of progress towards gender equity. These include the development and implementation of policies, the removal of barriers to career progression, plus adequate governance. Hence ongoing actions are going to be required to achieve gender equity across the relevant workforce in liver transplantation around the world.
Parallel Computation of Shallow Water Flows Using Hybrid MPI/OpenACC
Authors: Rhee Syngman
Published: January 2024

A parallel shallow water flow model is introduced in this paper. The explicit-time finite volume approach is adopted to solve the 2D shallow water equations on an unstructured triangular mesh. The proposed scheme is second-order accurate in temporal and spatial terms using the two-stage Runge-Kutta and the monotone upwind scheme for conservation law (MUSCL) methods, respectively. Based on Message Passing Interface (MPI) and OpenACC, a multi-GPU model is presented with the METIS library to produce the domain decomposition. A CUDA-aware MPI library through GPUDirect for peer-to-peer (P2P) transfer between two GPUs and overlapping computation and MPI communication are used to speed up MPI memory exchange and the performance of the code. A 2D circular dam break test with wet and dry downstream beds and grid resolutions of about 2 million cells is considered to verify the accuracy of the code, and good results were achieved compared to the numerical simulations of published studies. Compared with the multi-CPU version of the 6-core CPU, maximum speedups of 56.18 and 331.51 were obtained using the single-GPU and multi-GPU versions, respectively. Results indicate that acceleration performance improves as the mesh resolution increases.
Maxillofacial Microvascular Free Flap Reconstructions in Pediatric and Adolescent Patients – Outcomes and Potential Factors Influencing Success Rate
Authors: Lech Dominika Maja , Matysek Jeremi Jan , Maksymowicz Robert , Strączek Cyprian Norbert , Marguła Robert , Krakowczyk Łukasz , Kozakiewicz Marcin , Dowgierd Krzysztof
Published: January 2024

This is a retrospective chart review of outcomes of maxillofacial microvascular free flap reconstructions in pediatric and adolescent patients. A single head and neck surgical team performed all the included 136 procedures. Demographic and surgical patient data were recorded. Type of transfer performed in each recipient site and major complications were analyzed. Relevant influencing factors, such as age, gender and etiology of defect were determined using the ANOVA test and χ² test of independence. Results indicate a 90% success rate. No significant relation was found between the incidence of total flap loss and patient age, etiology or graft source. The maxillary reconstructions showed a higher incidence of total flap loss compared to mandibular ones (11 vs. 3 cases). Despite the high success rate, the findings underline the necessity for further research to validate these observations and enhance surgical methods for pediatric and adolescent patients.
Sound Wave Propagation on a Chladni Plate
Authors: Val Baker Amira K. F. , Csanad Mate , Fellas Nicolas , Atassi Nour , Mgvdliashvili Ia , Oomen Paul
Published: January 2024

In general sound waves propagate radially outwards from a point source. These waves will continue in the same direction, decreasing in intensity, unless a boundary condition is met. To arrive at a universal understanding of the relation between frequency and wave propagation within spatial boundaries, an analysis and comparison is made between the results of Chladni plate experiments and Chladni plate simulations. We consider a finite range of frequencies and plate geometries and present a model that has been shown to successfully recreate the nodal line patterns to a first approximation. We discuss the benefits of such a model and the future work necessary to develop the model to its full predictive capacity.
Bouncing Back from Contingency: Pensions Insurance, Corporate Social Responsibility, and Organizational Resilience
Authors: Wang Hao , Zhang Tao , Wang Xi , Zheng Jiansong
Published: January 2024

Numerous researchers acknowledge that occupational pension protects employees. However, the total occupational pension is shared by employees and employers in China, which is a cost. This study aimed to explore the occupational pension on corporate social responsibility (CSR) and organizational resilience. We drew upon insights from cost-stickiness and resource-based theories to develop a model that illuminates how occupational pension affected firms’ stance toward CSR in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and how this, in turn, has result organizational resilience. This study categorized CSR into strategic and responsive activities based on cost stickiness. We selected a total of 34,145 observations of Chinese listed companies over the period 2010-2023 as a sample to investigate whether occupational pension changes CSR strategies. The results showed that the cost pressure to contribute to occupational pension drove firms to reduce their responsive CSR and boost their strategic CSR. Moreover, strategic CSR improved organizational resilience, but responsive CSR did not. This relationship between occupational pension and CSR was significantly and negatively moderated by the minimum wage and population aging. Whereas, the relationship between CSR and organizational resilience was significantly and positively moderated by digital transformation and marketing capabilities. This study has implications for decision-making regarding high-quality firm development.
Application of X-STRs for Forensic Identification in Mixed DNA Profile: A Case Report
Authors: Vacca Nunzia Ilaria , Mongelli Giacoma , Ceccardi Stefania , Agostini Vincenzo
Published: January 2024

The analysis of autosomal polymorphism (STR) or Y chromosome polymorphisms (Y-STR) are usually used for the study and deconvolution of mixed DNA profiles in forensic genetics, accompanying data interpretation with biostatistical evaluations (e.g. RMP, RMNE, LR). Sometimes, however, some mixed DNA profiles are so complex that the autosomal and Y markers do not allow a correct discrimination and identification. In this work is reported a robbery case in which the analysis of the polymorphic markers of the X chromosome was applied to the mixed profiles obtained from the traces, thus falling outside the classic relationship use of the X-STRs. The aim of the authors is, in fact, to encourage the classic use of X-STRs not only in parental relationships, but also in purely forensic cases for interpreting complex mixed DNA profiles. Their application in case resolution could be more decisive than STR/Y-STR.
Long-Term Oncological Outcomes After Nerve-Sparing Robot-Assisted Radical Prostatectomy for High-Risk Localised Prostate Cancer: A Single-Center, Two-Arm, Prospective Study
Authors: Spirito Lorenzo , Chessa Francesco , Hagman Anna , Lantz Anna , Celentano Giuseppe , Sanchez-Salas Rodolfo , La Rocca Roberto , Olsson Mats , Akre Olof , Mirone Vincenzo , Wiklund Peter
Published: January 2024

Nerve-sparing vs. non nerve sparing surgery (NSS vs. non-NSS) is associated with improved functional outcomes in prostatectomy patients. The aim of the present study is to compare the oncological outcomes of patients with high-risk localized prostate cancer undergoing nerve-sparing and non nerve-sparing robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).
Between November 2002 and December 2018, we prospectively recorded data of patients undergoing RARP for high-risk localized prostate cancer (PCa). NSS (nerve-sparing surgery) was offered based on preoperative clinical characteristics of patients and intraoperative assessment. Patients were stratified into 2 groups according to NSS. The primary outcome was biochemical recurrence (BCR), while positive surgical margin (PSM) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) were secondary outcomes. Logistic regression was used to investigate predictive factors. A total of 779 patients were included in the study, 429 (55.1%) underwent NSS while 350 (44.9%) underwent a non-NSS. After a mean (±SD) follow-up of 192 (±14) months, 328 (42.1%) patients developed BCR, no significant difference was found between NSS and non-NSS group (156 vs. 172; p=0.09). Both univariable and multivariable analysis found that nerve-sparing approach was not a predictor of BCR (p>0.05). NSS vs. non-NSS was not associated with worse oncological outcomes in patients with high-risk PCa
Brimonidine Eye Drops at the Children Reach: A Possible Foe
Authors: Trotta Daniela , Zucchelli Mirco , Salladini Carmela , Ballerini Patrizia , Rossi Claudia , Aricò Maurizio
Published: January 2024

Brimonidine, a selective alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, used for treatment of open-angle glaucoma, has been shown to cause neurological side effects such as unresponsiveness, lethargy, hypoventilation, and stupor, mimicking opioid toxicity. We report one case of transient encephalopathy in a toddler, in whom brimonidine accidental toxicity was sus-pected and then confirmed by a toxicology study.
The 8-month-old healthy girl child was taken to the pediatric ER since she was drowsy and hypotonic, with miosis. Brain CT scan and toxicological work-up on blood and urine were negative. Starting from hour +4, the child progressively improved, and by hour +6, she recovered to a normal state of consciousness. A survey of available drugs at the child’s reach showed the presence of brimonidine. Thus, ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) was applied to quantify brimonidine in urine and plasma samples, showing 8.40 ng/mL level and 0.79 ng/mL, respectively.
To our knowledge, this is the first report for determining brimonidine levels in urine and plasma by UPLC-MS/MS. Insufficient knowledge of the family members about the potential hazards of an apparently innocuous, topical medication such as eye drops may put children at a greater risk of poisoning. Necessary warnings should be better given to parents when prescribing this medication.
Spontaneous fistula and abdominal wall endometriosis due to occult existence of unicornuate right uterus with rudimentary non-communicating functioning left horn
Authors: Cruciat Gheorghe , Staicu Adelina , Florian Andreea , Nemeti Georgiana , Sachelaru Diana , Andras David , Muresan Daniel
Published: January 2024

We present the full case pictorial assay including preoperative imaging as well as the surgical correction of the uterine anomaly and associated complication of a very rare case of occult unicornuate right uterus with rudimentary non-communicating functioning left horn and its natural evolution following an initially incomplete surgical treatment.
Interfacial Behavior of Slag-Fly Ash-Red Mud Based Geopolymer Mortar with OPC Concrete Substrate: Mechanical Properties and Microstructure
Authors: Long Qinghui , Zhao Yufei , Zhang Benben , Yang Huichen , Luo Zhengdong , Li Zhengyang , Zhang Genbao , Liu Kun
Published: January 2024

Geopolymer, as a new type of solid waste-based inorganic cementitious material, exhibits outstanding Behavior in terms of physical and chemical performance, macro-mechanical properties and long-lasting stability, and features potential application development tendency in the field of repair and reinforcement of existing concrete structures. This paper investigates the interfacial Behavior of geopolymer mortar with OPC concrete substrate under different slag, fly ash and red mud mixing proportions, while cement mortar was used as a control group for the research. The interfacial bonding properties of the geopolymer mortar to the OPC concrete substrate were elaborated by carrying out split tensile test, two-sided shear test and three-point bending test. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were employed to further analyse the microstructural characteristics and physical phase components of the interfacial transition zone between the geopolymer mortar and the OPC concrete substrate. The results indicated that the compressive strength of slag-fly ash-red mud-based geopolymer mortar under different mixing ratio conditions was consistently superior to that of cement mortar. Overall, the interfacial bonding properties of the geopolymer mortar to the OPC concrete substrate gradually increased with the increment of the slag content, however, an evolutionary trend of minor enhancement followed by a gradual reduction was observed with the growth of the fly ash and red mud content.
Navigating Legal and Regulatory Frameworks to Achieve the Climate Resilience and Sustainability of Indigenous Socioecological Systems (ISESs)
Authors: Sakapaji Stephen Chitengi , Molinos Jorge Garcia , Parilova Varvara , Gavrilyeva Tuyara , Yakovleva Natalia
Published: January 2024

The sustainability of Indigenous Socioecological Systems (ISES) faces significant threats from global anthropogenic environmental changes, endangering Indigenous People (IP), who safeguard a substantial portion of the world's natural capital. Indigenous Traditional Food Systems (ITFS) are crucial within ISES, providing not only diverse and nutritious food but also holding cultural, spiritual, and economic significance. Despite embodying sustainable lifestyles, Indigenous voices remain underrepresented in climate and sustainability discussions. Addressing this gap, the research adopts the Political Ecological Theoretical Framework (PETF) to analyze the regulatory impact on the adaptability, resilience, and sustainability of ITFS. Two Indigenous communities, the Karen in Thailand and various groups in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) in Russia, serve as case studies. The study aims to establish a theoretical framework integrating Indigenous concerns into policies and regulations, emphasizing self-determination, cultural preservation, and land rights. Findings emphasize the necessity for comprehensive legal frameworks prioritizing Indigenous involvement in climate resilience and sustainability efforts, moving beyond symbolic gestures towards meaningful collaboration and decision-making power. Recognizing Indigenous vulnerability and engaging them as active partners is essential for navigating climate challenges within ISES and ITFS.
Emerging Role of GCN1 in Disease and Homeostasis
Authors: Tatara Yota , Kasai Shuya , Kokubu Daichi , Tsujita Tadayuki , Mimura Junsei , Itoh Ken
Published: January 2024

GCN1 is recognized as a factor that is essential for the activation of GCN2, which is a sensor of amino acid starvation. This function is evolutionarily conserved from yeast to higher eukaryotes. However, recent studies have revealed non-canonical functions of GCN1 that are independent of GCN2, such as its participation in cell proliferation, apoptosis, and the immune response, beyond the borders of species. Although it is known that GCN1 and GCN2 interact with ribosomes to accomplish amino acid starvation sensing, recent studies have reported that GCN1 binds to disomes (i.e. ribosomes that collide each other), thereby regulating both the co-translational quality control and stress response. We propose that GCN1 regulates ribosome-mediated signaling by dynamically changing its partners among RWD domain-possessing proteins via unknown mechanisms. We recently demonstrated that GCN1 is essential for cell proliferation and whole-body energy regulation in mice. However, the manner in which ribosome-initiated signaling via GCN1 is related to various physiological functions warrants clarification. GCN1-mediated mechanisms and its interaction with other quality control and stress response signals should be important for proteostasis during aging and neurodegenerative diseases, and may be targeted for drug development.
An Intra-hospital Spread of Colistin-Resistant K. pneumoniae Isolates – Epidemiological, Clinical, and Genetic Analysis
Authors: Popivanov Georgi , Markovska Rumyana , Gergova Ivanka , Konaktchieva Marina , Cirocchi Roberto , Kjossev Kirien , Mutafchiyski Ventsislav
Published: January 2024

Background and objective
K. pneumoniae appeared to be a significant problem due to its ability to accumulate antibiotic-resistance genes. After 2013, alarming colistin resistance rates among carbapenem-resistant K. pneumoniae have been reported in the Balkans. The study aims to perform an epidemiological, clinical, and genetic analysis of a local outbreak of COLr CR-Kp.
Material and methods
All carbapenem-resistant and colistin-resistant K. pneumoniae isolates observed among patients in the ICU unit of Military Medical Academy, Sofia from 1 January to 31 October 2023 were included. The results were analyzed according to the EUCAST criteria. All isolates were screened for blaVIM, blaIMP, blaKPC, blaNDM, and blaOXA-48. Genetic similarity was determined using the Dice coefficient as a similarity measure and the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA). mgrB genes and plasmid-mediated colistin resistance determinants (mcr-1, mcr-2, mcr-3, mcr-4, mcr-5) were investigated.
Results
There was a total of 379 MDR-K. pneumoniae isolates, 88% of which were carbapenem-resistant. Of them, there were 9 (2.7%) colistin-resistant isolates in six patients. A time and space cluster for five patients was found. Epidemiology typing showed that two isolates belonged to clone A (pts. 1, 5) and the rest to clone B (pts. 2-4) with 69% similarity. Clone A were coproducers of blaNDM-like and blaOXA-48-like and had mgrB-mediated colistin resistance (40%). Clone B isolates had only blaOXA-48-like and intact mgrB genes. All isolates were negative for mcr-1,-2,-3,-4,-5 genes.
Conclusions
The study describes a within-hospital spread of two clones of COLr CR-Kp with a 60% mortality rate. Clone A were coproducers of NDM-1 and OXA-48-like enzymes and had mgrB-mediated colistin resistance. Clone B isolates had only OXA-48-like enzymes and intact mgrB genes. No plasmid-mediated was found. The extremely high mortality rate and limited treatment options warrant strict measures to prevent outbreaks.
Complex Role of Photoreceptors in Light and Temperature Sensing: From Mechanism to the Target Genes Regulation. A Focus on the Genes Related to the Biosynthesis of Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Volná Adriana , Červeň Jiří , Nezval Jakub , Pech Radomír , Špunda Vladimír
Published: January 2024

Due to the ongoing climate change plants face multiple stress factors (mainly the abiotic ones) simultaneously, which means that the reduced yields of critical crops (including wheat, rice, or barley) can be expected. Therefore, our understanding of the light and temperature sensing mechanisms and related signaling is of primary importance. Herein we present a review focused on the direct sensing (ensured via photoreceptors) of light, which is the main abiotic factor driving the development, phenology, and especially resistance against oxidative stress via the increased accumulation of protective metabolites of crops. Thus, in the following text, special attention is paid to the description of the plant photoreceptors, their mode of action, ranges of perception, and related signaling pathways leading to the activation of target transcription factors. These finally lead to alterations in the expression of target genes related to photoprotection. Due to the focus of our research, genes related to the production of phenolic compounds (PheCs) were selected as a representative group of target genes having a UV-screening, and antioxidative function meaning that their activation and activity of resulting proteins can significantly contribute to the increased tolerance of plants against stress cues.
Telemedicine as an Option of Healthcare Services in monitoring Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) Patients Facing COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Akbar Femmy Nurul , Choirida Safira Rosiana , Muttaqin Ahmad Zaqi , Ekayanti Fika , Hendarto Hari
Published: January 2024

Healthcare visits were reduced during COVID-19 pandemic causing the disturbance of the sustainability in NAFLD monitoring. Telemedicine acts to maintain connectivity between patients and healthcare professionals. This review aimed to assess telemedicine helps to monitoring in NAFLD. The database was searched from The PubMedCentral and ScienceDirect from 2020 to 2023. We assessed the Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) for randomized controlled trial (RCT) and the Newcastle-Ottawa scale for non-RCTs systematic reviews. Meta-analyses with random-effects model to determine the pooled mean difference (MD) and p-value. There were three RCT and two non-RCT were included (n=239) with 56.9% males and the mean age was 51.3 years. Median intervention lasted 5.5 months. The parameter were body weight (BW), body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, liver function (AST/ALT), lipid profile and HbA1c. Metaanalysis showed telemedicine had a significant effect on improving outcomes for BW (MD -2.81: 95% CI, -4.11, -1.51, P 0.0001) and BMI (MD -1.01: 95% CI, -1.47, -0.55, P 0.0001) compared to standard care, while the AST/ALT were not significantly reduced. Other laboratory parameter were decreased from systematic reviews. Telemedicine through mobile-based applications could be an option for monitoring body weight and BMI in NAFLD patients facing the pandemic.
Cardiac MRI as a Risk Stratification Tool in COVID -19 Myocarditis
Authors: Nedeljković-Arsenović Olga , Ristić Arsen , Đorđević Nemanja , Tomić Milenko , Krljanac Gordana , Maksimović Ružica
Published: January 2024

The aim of this retrospective study was to identify myocardial injury after COVID-19 inflamation and to explore whether myocardial damage could be a possible cause of the persistent symptoms following COVID-19 infection in previously healthy individuals.
The study included 139 patients who were enrolled between January-June 2021, mean age 46.7±15.2 years, 68 were men, 71 were women without known cardiac or pulmonary diseases. All patients underwent clinical work up, lab. analyses, cardiac ultrasound, and CMR on 1.5 T scanner using a recommended protocol for morphological and functional assessment before and after contrast media application with multi-parametric sequences.
In 39% of patients late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) was found as a sign of myocarditis. Fibrinogen was statistically significantly higher in patients with LGE than in those without LGE, (4.3±0.23 vs 3.2±0.14g/L, p<0.05; respectively), as well as D-dimer (1.8±0.3 vs 0.8±0.1 mg/L FEU). Also troponin was statistically significantly higher in patients with myocardial LGE (13.1±0.4ng/L) compared to those with normal myocardium (4.9±0.3ng/L, p<0.001). We demonstrated chest pain, fatigue and elevated troponin to be independent predictors for LGE. Septal LGE was shown to be predictor for arrhythmias.
The use of CMR is a potential risk stratification tool in evaluating outcomes following COVID-19 myocarditis.
Emotional and Behavioural Factors Predisposing to Internet Addiction: The Smartphone Distraction among Italian High School Students
Authors: Benedetto Loredana , Rollo Simone , Cafeo Anna , Di Rosa Gabriella , Pino Rossella , Gagliano Antonella , Germanò Eva , Ingrassia Massimo
Published: January 2024

In a digitally oriented society, smartphones provide continual online accessibility to daily life, while simultaneously predisposing adolescents to engage in prolonged connections for various purposes, thus escalating the risk of Internet Addiction (IA). Cognitive processes such as multitasking and attentional shifting are frequently associated with smartphone activities. Additionally, online engagements may serve as emotional strategies for regulating negative states (e.g., boredom and distress), redirecting attention towards more gratifying activities, such as social media content. This study delves into cognitive-emotional processes (emotion regulation, attention impulsiveness, online vigilance, and multitasking) and emotional/behavioural factors (emotional problems, conduct problems, hyperactivity/inattention, peer relationships, and prosocial behaviours) that may be implicated in smartphone activities and technology addiction among adolescents. A community sample (N=676) of Italian high school students (42.2% females) completed the Smartphone Distraction Scale (SDS), the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire for internalizing/externalizing symptoms (SDQ), and the Internet Addiction Test (IAT) to assess the presence and severity of IA. The scores on the Smartphone Distraction Scale were found to be positively associated with IA levels. Furthermore, students exhibiting higher internalizing/externalizing symptoms, particularly those with traits of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), are more likely to manifest problematic smartphone usage. The implications for screening adolescents more susceptible to developing IA symptoms and for implementing preventive interventions are discussed.
Genetic Mapping and Characterization of Verticillium Wilt Resistance in a Recombinant Inbred Population of Upland Cotton
Authors: Wilson Iain W , Moncuquet Philippe , Yuan Yuman , Soliveres Melanie , Li Zitong , Stiller Warwick , Zhu Qian-Hao
Published: January 2024

Verticillium wilt (VW) is an important and widespread disease of cotton and once established is long lived and difficult to manage. In Australia, the non-defoliating pathotype of Verticillium dahliae is the most common, and extremely virulent. Breeding cotton varieties with increased VW resistance is the most economical and effective method of controlling this disease and is greatly aided by understanding the genetics of resistance. In this study, VW resistance was investigated in 240 F7 recombinant inbred lines (RIL) derived from a cross between MCU-5 that has good resistance and Siokra 1-4 which is susceptible. Using a controlled environment bioassay, we found that resistance based on plant survival or shoot biomass was complex but with major contributions from chromosomes D03 and D09, with genomic prediction analysis estimating a prediction accuracy of 0.73 based on survival scores compared to 0.36 for shoot biomass. Transcriptome analysis of MCU-5 and Siokra 1-4 roots uninfected or infected with V. dahliae revealed that the two cultivars displayed very different root transcriptomes and responded differently to V. dahliae infection. Ninety-nine differentially expressed genes were located in the two mapped resistance regions and so are potential candidates for further identifying the genes responsible for VW resistance.
Mitochondria in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy-induced Cardiomyopathy: A Prospective Therapeutic Target to Improve Treatment Response
Authors: Gandhi Shivam , Sweeney H. Lee , Hart Cora Coker , Han Renzhi , Perry Christopher G.R
Published: January 2024

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive neuromuscular disease caused by mutations to the dystrophin gene - resulting in deficiency of dystrophin protein, loss of myofiber integrity in skeletal and cardiac muscle, and eventual cell death and replacement with fibrotic tissue. Pathologic cardiac manifestations occur in nearly every DMD patient, with development of cardiomyopathy - the leading cause of death - inevitable by adulthood. As early cardiac abnormalities are difficult to detect, timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment modalities remain a challenge. There is no cure for DMD – treatment is aimed at delaying disorder progression and alleviating symptoms. A comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms is crucial to development of targeted treatments. While established hypotheses of underlying mechanisms include sarcolemmal weakening, upregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and perturbed ion homeostasis, mitochondrial stress has recently come into focus as a potential key contributor. Several experimental compounds targeting the skeletal muscle pathology of DMD are in development, but effects of such agents on cardiac function remain unclear. Synergistic integration of small molecule- and gene-target-based drugs with metabolic, immune, or ion balance-enhancing compounds into a combinatorial therapy offers potential for treating dystrophin deficiency-induced cardiomyopathy, making it crucial to understand the underlying mechanisms driving the disorder.
Immune Reactions of Vector Insects to Parasites and Pathogens
Authors: Ratcliffe Norman Arthur , Mello Cicero Brasileiro , Castro Helena Carla , Dyson Paul , Figueiredo Marcela
Published: January 2024

This overview initially describes insect immune reactions and then brings together present knowledge of the interactions of vector insects with their invading parasites and pathogens. It is a way of introducing this special issue with subsequent papers presenting the latest details of these interactions in each particular group of vectors. Hopefully, this paper will fill a void in the literature since brief descriptions of vector immunity have now been brought together in one publication and could form a starting point for those interested and new to this important area. Descriptions are given on the immune reactions of mosquitoes, blackflies, sandflies, tsetse flies, lice, fleas and triatomine bugs. Cellular and humoral defences are described separately but emphasis is made on the co-operation of these processes in the completed immune response. The paper also emphasises the need of great care in extracting haemocytes for subsequent study as appreciation of their fragile nature is sometimes overlooked with non-sterile media, smearing techniques and excessive centrifugation sometimes used. The potential vital role of eicosanoids in the instigation of many of the immune reactions described is also discussed. Finally, the priming of the immune system, mainly in mosquitoes, is considered and one possible mechanism is presented
Exploring the Landscape of Breast Cancer Prevention among Chinese Residents in Italy: An In-Depth Analysis of Screening Adherence, Breast Self-Examination (BSE) Practices, the Role of Technological Tools, and Misconceptions Surrounding Risk Factors and Symptoms
Authors: Conte Luana , Lupo Roberto , Sciolti Serena , Lezzi Alessia , Rubbi Ivan , Botti Stefano , Carvello Maicol , Fanizzi Annarita , Massafra Raffaella , Vitale Elsa , De Nunzio Giorgio
Published: January 2024

Background: Breast cancer remains a significant health concern among women globally. Despite advancements in awareness and diagnostic techniques, it persists as a leading cause of death, with profound impacts on affected individuals' quality of life. Primary and secondary prevention, including regular screenings and practices like Breast Self-Examination (BSE), are pivotal in ensuring early diagnosis. The NHS in Italy offers screenings for women aged 50-69 every two years, managed by the Local Health Authority. However, the participation rates, especially among the Chinese female population residing in Italy, are not well-understood.
Methods: Using a snowball method, we electronically disseminated a survey to investigate how Chinese women living in Italy engage with available NHS screening programs. The survey also explores their practice of BSE, the use and impact of technological tools on prevention, and aims to understand their depth of knowledge and misconceptions about breast cancer.
Results: The data revealed a significant gap in breast cancer screening adherence and knowledge among Chinese women in Italy, with a notable discrepancy between the general population and those who have previously encountered cancer.
Conclusions: The results highlight the urgent need for interventions that are culturally sensitive, stressing that these actions are not only desirable but essential.
LAS ORDENANZAS DE LOS REYES CATÓLICOS Y LOS ABOGADOS
Authors: ROSALES DE ANGULO José María
Published: January 2024

La Normativa sobre Abogados en la recopilación denominada Ordenanzas de la Real Audiencia y Chancillería de Granada de 1551 con comentarios
VILLALAR: GESTA BELICA Y CRISIS CONSTITUCIONAL
Authors: PEÑA GONZÁLEZ JOSÉ
Published: January 2024

Tras la reunificacion de la península después de la toma de Granada, queda pendiente la institucionalización del nuevo estado surgido por la unión personal de Isabel de Castilla y Fernando de Aragon, cuyos reinos , al morir Juan II, mantienen costumbres fueros e instituciones tradicionales manteniéndose unidos solo por el titular de la Corona.  La muerte de Isabel en 1504 dejando como heredera a su hija Juana y la de Fernando en 1516 , tras su segunda regencia, nombrando heredero de sus estados patrimoniales a su nieto Carlos, dara lugar poco mas tarde a la primera crisis de la monarquia entre los años 1519 a 1523. Crisis en el mas amplio sentido de la expresión: política, económica, institucional y social. Y por supuesto constitucional. Si durante el comienzo del reinado de Isabel y hasta la batalla de Toro en 1476  el dilema político constitucional era elegir entre el modelo castellanoaragones o el castellano lusitano, con la llegado de Carlos y su toma del poder tanto en Aragon como en Castilla , la cuestión era el mantenimiento del triangulo institucional medieval (Rey-Cortes-Municipios) frente a las nuevas tendencias exigidas por la aparicion y consolidacion del Estado como forma monista del poder que se reparten Rey y nobleza. El modelo constitucional francés inspirado en Bodino y que justifica la monarquia absoluta. Frente a esta concepción de la política y el poder  se alzaran los Comuneros. Su derrota marcara la Historia de España y el triunfo arrollador  de Carlos
MACÍAS RODRÍGUEZ, FRANCISCA; LA EVOLUCIÓN DE LA PLANTA JUDICIAL DESDE 1833 HASTA NUESTROS DÍAS EN EL TERRITORIO DE LA COMUNIDAD AUTÓNOMA DE ANDALUCÍA, Córdoba Instituto Español de Ciencias Histórico-Jurídicas, 2023, 674 págs
Authors: Torres Ibañez David
Published: January 2024

recensión de la obra
DEL ORDENAMIENTO AL SISTEMA EN EL DERECHO ISLÁMICO CLÁSICO: UN ANÁLISIS EN CLAVE COMUNICACIONAL
Authors: Jiménez Arroyo Natalia
Published: January 2024

El artículo explora la distinción entre ordenamiento y sistema jurídico en la Sharía a partir de la Teoría comunicacional del Derecho. El ordenamiento jurídico es una totalidad textual que en sí misma es inoperativa, pues necesita del sistema jurídico para que sus normas queden debidamente delimitadas e interpretadas. A través del surgimiento y desarrollo de la Sharía y del fiqh analizamos el desarrollo histórico a través del cual se forman los diferentes sistemas jurídicos del Islam sunní y que nos llevará a confirmar la distinción entre ordenamiento y sistema propugnada por la TCD y a concluir que existen tantos sistemas como escuelas y, por ende, tantas Sharías como
El valor pedagógico y espiritual de la escultura renacentista a propósito del hallazgo de un contrato de ejecución de las imágenes de la Hermandad de la Vera Cruz de Lebrija, Sevilla, realizadas por el artista flamenco Roque de Balduque en 1559
Authors: Tinajero-Márquez Laura
Published: January 2024

Roque Balduque, escultor flamenco afincado en la ciudad de Sevilla durante el siglo XVI, realizó algunas de las imágenes procesionales de Andalucía, así como retablos y otras obras escultóricas en piedra. Muchas de las obras que se atribuyen a dicho artista no cuentan con documentación que corrobore autoría, como era el caso del Cristo de Vera Cruz de Lebrija, del que faltaba documento de autoría. El pasado 10 de abril de 2023 encontramos el documento que daba fe de su autoría, de la ejecución tanto del Santísimo Cristo de la Vera Cruz como de Nuestra Señora de Consolación y un Niño Jesús de la hermandad y cofradía de Vera Cruz de Lebrija, Sevilla, en el fondo del Archivo Histórico Provincial de Sevilla, concretamente de sus protocolos notariales, con fecha de abril de 1559 y otorgado por el escultor. Tomando ese punto de partida, haremos una reflexión desde la Historia del Arte y su aplicación pedagogía en el aula sobre lo que significaron las hermandades y cofradías de la Vera Cruz para la escultura del Renacimiento y el Barroco y lo que supuso el Concilio de Trento y el Sínodo de Sevilla de 1604 del arzobispo Niño de Guevara para estas hermandades y sus cofrades y cofradas del ámbito andaluz.
Masculino/femenino en el cuento venezolano del siglo XX
Authors: Barrera Linares Luis
Published: January 2024

A partir de los 29 autores y dos autoras incluidos en el libroPropuesta para un canon del cuento venezolano del sigloXX (Pacheco, Barrera y Sandoval, 2014), me propongo analizarlos contenidos de 40 antologías del cuento venezolano,publicadas entre 1923 y 2013. El propósito es indagaracerca de los motivos que han conducido a que el cuentovenezolano sea un género literario hegemónicamentemasculino. Mi análisis ha tomado en consideración tantoantologías clásicas como otras más recientes. Se concluyeque, si bien hay algunos desequilibrios inexplicables, losescasos porcentajes de damas cuentistas presentes en lasantologías se corresponden con los resultados ofrecidosen la Propuesta... y se relacionan además con una tradiciónque incluso ha sido refrendada por las selecciones antológicasfirmadas por mujeres.
Facilities and Construction Engineering
Authors: Lake Larry W. , Arnold Kenneth E.
Published: January 2024

Volume III: Facilities and Construction Engineering covers all of the classic engineering disciplines such as civil, chemical, mechanical, and electrical, as well as the broad science of project management. Gain a basic understanding of the equipment and systems used by facilities engineers, learn the relative advantages and disadvantages of particular alternatives for a specific set of conditions, and better understand common terminology.
Emerging and Peripheral Technologies
Authors: Lake Larry W. , Warner H.R.
Published: January 2024

Volume VI: Emerging and Peripheral Technologies covers technologies that have come to the forefront of the industry in the past 20 years. Descriptions of unique developments that are on the “periphery” of the areas covered in the first five volumes or in emerging areas of technology are included.
Investigating the impact of anthropogenic noise on the decision-making of dwarf mongoose offspring
Authors: Vane Lauren S , Morris-Drake Amy , Arbon Josh J , Thomson Robyn , Kern Julie M , Radford Andrew N
Published: January 2024

Anthropogenic (man-made) noise constitutes a novel and widespread pollutant, with its increasing prevalence in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems resulting in alterations of natural soundscapes. There is proliferating evidence that noise leads to maladaptive behaviour in wildlife, yet few studies have addressed the effect on mammalian parent–offspring interactions. We investigated the impact of road noise on dwarf mongoose (Helogale parvula) offspring nearest-neighbour decision-making whilst foraging, using a field-based playback experiment. We predicted that offspring would forage closer to groupmates, especially adult and dominant individuals, when experiencing road noise compared to ambient sound to reduce communication masking and alleviate stress. We also predicted that noise would have a reduced effect with increasing offspring age due to reduced reliance on adult groupmates for provisioning and predator-defence. However, we found that mean nearest-neighbour distance and nearest-neighbour intrinsic characteristics (age, sex and dominance status) did not differ significantly between sound treatments, and these responses did not vary significantly with focal individual age. Noise may not impact nearest-neighbour decision-making due to habituation from chronic natural exposure; alternatively, noise could induce stress and distraction, resulting in maladaptive decision-making. Future work should aim to detangle the underlying mechanisms mediating parent–offspring interactions in conditions of anthropogenic noise.
Screening of compounds-based on intermediate adsorption equilibrium for electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia
Authors: Wang An-Liang , Ma Chaoqun , Zhang Huaifang , Xia Jing , Zhu Xiaojuan , Qu Kaiyu , Feng Fukai , Han Sumei , He Caihong , Ma Xiao , Lin Gang , Cao Wenbin , Meng Xiangmin , Zhu Lijie , Lu Qipeng
Published: January 2024

Electrocatalytic nitrate (NO3-) reduction reaction (NO3RR) holds great potential for the conversion of NO3- contaminants into valuable ammonia in a sustainable method. Unfortunately, the non-equilibrium adsorption of intermediates and sluggish multi-electron transfer have detrimental impacts on the electrocatalytic performance of the NO3RR, posing obstacles to its practical application. Herein, we initially screen the adsorption energies of three key intermediates, i.e., *NO3, *NO and *H2O, along with the d-band centers on 21 types of transition metals (IIIV and IB)-Sb/Bi based intermetallic compounds (IMCs) as electrocatalysts. The results reveal that hexagonal CoSb IMCs possess the optimal adsorption equilibrium for key intermediates, and exhibit outstanding electrocatalytic NO3RR performance with Faradaic efficiency of 96.3%, NH3 selectivity of 89.1% and excellent stability, surpassing the majority of recently reported NO3RR electrocatalysts. Moreover, the integration of CoSb IMCs/C into a novel Zn-NO3- battery results in a high power density of 11.88 mW cm-2.
Comparing the accuracy of wearable devices readings with cuff sphygmomanometers for blood pressure measurement: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Cai Jingjing , Li Zhengxin , Wen Qing , Sun Xuejing , Wu Junru , Lu Yao , He Tian , Zhang Wen , Yuan Hong
Published: January 2024

Wearable devices for BP measurement as an emerging technology for closer monitoring BP and achieving better BP control monitoring. However, the accuracy of wearable devices needs to be systematically validated and analyzed. This study aims to compare wearable device readings for BP measurement with those from cuff sphygmomanometers in prospective clinical studies, therefore, to determine whether wearable devices provide reliable and portable BP monitoring. The Web of Science, MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and PubMed databases were searched from January 1, 1952 to October 8, 2021. Data were compiled from 21 articles comprising 897 participants. There was no significant difference between systolic and diastolic readings for wearable devices and cuff sphygmomanometers, with a combined mean difference of 0.58 mmHg (95% CI, -0.35 to 1.51; n = 21; I²=0%, P = 0.22) for SBP and − 0.33 mmHg (95% CI, -1.50 to 0.85; n = 19; I²=56%, P = 0.58) for DBP. The subgroup analysis showed that BP readings of wearable devices lower than cuff sphygmomanometers at the wrist site (-1.85mm Hg, 95% CI, -2.75 to -0.95; n = 11; I² = 10%, P༜0.05). Wearable device measurement for BP is comparable to the readings of cuff sphygmomanometers. Although the accuracy still should be improved, wearable device measurement may be a reliable and convenient approach for daily BP monitoring to improve BP control.