bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retos y oportunidades del marketing digital para la sostenibilidad de las MiPyME en el mercado local de Quevedo, provincia de Los Ríos
Authors: Cusme Palma Cruz Maria , Plua Panta Karina Alexandra , Tenelema Jiménez Inés Elizabeth , Estrada Hernández José Armando
Published: February 2024

El marketing digital ha emergido como una poderosa herramienta para promover la sostenibilidad de las Micro, Pequeñas y Medianas Empresas (MiPyME) en un contexto empresarial en donde enfrentan diversos desafíos, como la necesidad de adaptarse a las nuevas tecnologías y competir con grandes empresas. Esta investigación aborda retos y oportunidades que el marketing digital ofrece a estas organizaciones para lograr su sostenibilidad. La metodología de investigación empleada fue la revisión bibliográfica consultando fuentes electrónicas de revistas científicas y reportes estadísticos, que permitió relacionar el criterio de marketing digital y la sostenibilidad en las MiPyME en Ecuador. Se concluyó que las oportunidades que el marketing digital brinda a las MiPyME, específicamente a las de la ciudad de Quevedo son múltiples y significativas; mediante, el uso estratégico de redes sociales, marketing de contenidos, SEO y otras tácticas digitales que permitirán promover prácticas sostenibles y fomentando una mayor conciencia sobre la responsabilidad social corporativa.
Aplicabilidad de estrategia metodológica en el programa orientación vocacional de la educación media-técnica. Venezuela
Authors: Cueto Ruth
Published: February 2024

Se presenta el avance de un estudio cualitativo de alcance exploratorio en el cual se formuló como objetivo estimar la aplicabilidad de una estrategia metodológica para el Programa Área de Formación Orientación Vocacional en la Educación Media-Técnica de Venezuela, que permita atender a estudiantes de primero a quinto año,  con la asistencia por lo menos de un orientador en cada institución educativa. Se propone administrar una estructura modular, rotativa, interinstitucional y multidisciplinaria. Los datos se obtuvieron mediante la utilización de tres recursos de análisis, la revisión de documentos legales e institucionales, la comparación con un antecedente análogo realizado en la Facultad de Medicina de la Universidad del Zulia durante el periodo 1997-2008 y la valoración de un ejercicio de simulación. Entre las conclusiones se destacan que para su gestión se requiere, por un lado, fortalecer entre la comunidad educativa condiciones como la disciplina, la concentración, la paciencia y la preocupación por los objetivos deseados y por otro, la administración de una prueba piloto durante el año escolar 2023-2024.
A Roadmap for European Universities Policy Recommendation to Achieve HEI Sustainability: The Case of INVEST EU Alliance
Authors: Ipsilandis Pandelis , Kokkinos Konstantinos , Samaras Nicholas
Published: February 2024

The European Union (EU) has emphasized the value of higher education, research, and innovation as engines for the continued socioeconomic and cultural advancement of Europe on several occasions. The European Universities Initiative (EUI), one of the most recent policy initiatives by the European Commission (EC) aims at advancing this agenda, via transnational collaborations of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to find new strategies for fostering European scientific excellence. This effort provides an administrative answer to the goals of European policy in terms of higher education, research, and innovation. This paper analyzes the potential benefits and risks the EUI alliances might face along four dimensions: their internal coordination, their methods of resolving conflicts, the commitment of member universities, and the cultural characteristics of the alliances. It is based on interviews with individuals holding key leadership and management roles in five member universities. We provide the case of INVEST EUI alliance as a complete case study for all the governmental, educational, structural, and financial challenges faced to draw a roadmap that can be used as policy recommendation for EU.
Harmonizing Aesthetics and Psychological Well-being: An Indepth Exploration of the Integrative Impact of Dysport in Cosmetic Procedures
Authors: Nikandish Mehrasa , Nikandish Mohammad , Behnoud Hedayatpour
Published: February 2024

This research endeavors to delve into the intricate interplay between aesthetic intelligence, aesthetic sensitivity, and psychological well-being within the framework of positive psychology. Recognizing the profound influence of environmental aesthetics on individuals' health and well-being, this study aims to illuminate the relationship between aesthetic intelligence and psychological well-being, with aesthetic sensitivity acting as a mediating factor. Employing a correlational research design, structural equation modeling was applied as the methodological approach. The research cohort comprised all students enrolled at Bu-Ali Sina University during the academic year 2018-2019. Employing cluster sampling, 384 students were selected based on the recommended sample size for structural equation modeling. The instruments employed in this study included the Ryff Wellbeing Scale (2), the Aesthetic Intelligence Scale developed by Rashid et al. (2017), and Abdulsalami's (2013) Aesthetic Sensitivity Scale. The findings derived from structural equations analysis revealed that both aesthetic intelligence and aesthetic sensitivity exerted a significant direct impact on psychological well-being. Furthermore, aesthetic intelligence demonstrated a direct and significant effect on aesthetic sensitivity. The exploration of indirect relationships indicated that aesthetic intelligence, acting through the mediation of aesthetic sensitivity, significantly influenced psychological well-being. Considering these outcomes, it can be inferred that individuals' awareness and appreciation of environmental beauty positively contribute to their psychological well-being. Consequently, the development of educational programs aimed at enhancing aesthetic capabilities in individuals holds the potential to elevate overall well-being.
The Impact of Technology Adoption on Efficiency and Transparency in Public Procurement Processes in Kenya
Authors: Mandala Nebert Ombajo , Renson Ayoyi Isaac , Kipketer Too Samson
Published: February 2024

In recent years, global public procurement has witnessed a paradigm shift with the integration of technology, a phenomenon embraced by countries like Kenya. The Kenyan government has actively modernized its procurement system through the adoption of e-procurement systems, blockchain, and artificial intelligence, aiming to bolster efficiency and transparency. The purpose of this research work was to assess the impact of technology adoption on efficiency and transparency in public procurement processes in Kenya. This research addressed a critical gap in understanding the nuanced impacts of these technological advancements on the intricate dynamics of public procurement in Kenya. Investigating the adoption's influence on efficiency and transparency, the study explored experiences, challenges, successes, and overall implications. The findings are of significance to public governance, offering insights to policymakers, practitioners, and technology developers. Aligned with global sustainable development initiatives, the study advocated for digital literacy training, cybersecurity measures, infrastructure improvement, policy incentives, a national digital procurement strategy, private sector collaboration, policy reviews, and data-sharing initiatives. By embracing the recommendations, Kenya can navigate challenges and capitalize on technology for an efficient, transparent, and resilient future in public procurement, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Consumer perception of apple quality
Authors:   Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Canada, Bejaei Masoumeh , Arthur Jennifer ,   Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Canada, Cliff Margaret A. ,   The University of British Columbia, Canada
Published: February 2024

Apples are a global commodity worth $7.78 billion USD in international trade. Apple quality is a complex interdisciplinary topic. In studying consumer perception of apple quality, it is important to consider not only fruit characteristics, but other consumer-related and social environment-related factors. This chapter discusses three main factors that influence perception of apple quality: product-related, consumer-related and social environment-related factors, as well as their interactions. Product-related factors include intrinsic (e.g., appearance, texture/touch, flavor) and extrinsic (e.g., packaging design, consumer convenience, branding/trademarking) characteristics. Consumer-related factors include: psychological (e.g., food-evoked emotions, previous experience, neophobia, type of food, expectation) and physiological/biological (e.g., age, gender, overall health, sensory acuity) influences. Social environment-related factors include situational (e.g., time, physical surroundings), socio-cultural (e.g., cultural, lifestyle, purchasing habits, price) and economic influences. This chapter reviews the literature and presents schematic diagrams to assist readers in understanding the multidisciplinary topic of apple quality and the dynamic apple market.
Breeding for fruit quality improvement in apple
Authors:   Washington State University, USA, Li Teh Soon , Kostick Sarah ,   University of Minnesota, USA, Evans Kate ,   Washington State University, USA
Published: February 2024

Breeding for fruit quality improvement is critical for sustaining consumer interest and providing long-term profitability for the apple industry. Priority breeding targets consist of eating quality, appearance, and storability traits (to ensure year-round availability of fruit). Apple breeding is a resource-intensive process constrained by its heterozygosity and long generation time. Advancements in genomic research and DNA technologies are increasing our knowledge of genomic regions and diagnostic markers linked to priority traits. This chapter describes breeding for quality improvement, address challenges of phenotyping, and provide a comprehensive review of DNA markers associated with fruit quality traits.
Advances in understanding pre-harvest apple fruit development
Authors:   Bologna University, Italy, Manfrini Luigi , Bonora Alessandro ,   Bologna University, Italy
Published: February 2024

Fruit growth is a complex mechanism linking biochemical and biophysical processes promoting water and dry matter uptake in fruit tissues. This chapter describes growth mechanisms in apple fruit at different phenological stages and relates phases to key physiological parameters for fruit growth, including phloem and xylem inflows as well transpiration losses. A fundamental understanding of how apple fruit develop can allow the production chain to optimise resource management, leading to higher quality and more profitable and sustainable production.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Digital Storytelling on Fertility Awareness among Women: A Randomized Controlled Experimental Study
Authors: DAĞLI Elif
Published: February 2024

This study aims to determine the effectiveness of the digital storytelling (DS) method to raise fertility awareness (FA). This research is a pretest-posttest randomized controlled experimental study. The population of the study consisted of women who applied to the gynecology and obstetrics outpatient clinics of state hospital in March and October 2023 for who voluntarily agreed to participate in the study. Data for the study were gathered using Personal Introduction Form and Fertility Awareness Scale. physical and cognitive awareness levels of women in the intervention and control groups were similar before FA (P>0.05), and after training was given to the experimental group, all awareness levels increased significantly in the intervention group (P
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN BCG VACCINATION HISTORY AND THE INCIDENCE OF LEPROSY IN CHILDREN: A LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Noer Auliyah Madani Pertiwi Aisyah , Martini Santi , Mohamed Gomaa Nasr Nayla
Published: February 2024

Background: Globally, 9,052 new cases of leprosy in children were reported, with a corresponding rate of 4.5 per million child population. Children are believed to be the most vulnerable group to M. leprae infections due to their immature immunity. Purpose: This study aims to determine the relationship between the history of BCG vaccination and leprosy incidence in children. Methods: This study used a literature review method that involved a systematic search. The data sources were obtained using several databases, namely Google Scholar, Proquest, Science Direct, and Pubmed. Keywords were built using the PICOS protocol and Boolean Operators, so the keywords used were "relationship" AND "BCG vaccine" AND "leprosy" AND "children". The research selection and search procedures were explained using the PRISMA 2020 method and research included in this study following the inclusion and exclusion criteria that have been set. Results: There were eight studies suitable for inclusion in this literature review. Five articles concluded that there was a relationship between the history of BCG vaccine and the incidence of leprosy in children, while three articles concluded that there was no relationship between the two variables. Conclusion: The BCG vaccine is useful as an effort to prevent the transmission and spread of leprosy in children. Children who do not receive BCG immunization are more susceptible to leprosy than those who receive immunization. The BCG vaccine has a protective effect to prevent children from contracting and transmitting leprosy to other people.
DETERMINANTS OF PREGNANCY LOSS AMONG WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE IN INDONESIA
Authors: Arif Musoddaq Muhamad , Hidayat Taufiq , Riyanto Slamet , Dyah Kusumawardani Hastin , Kristanto Mulyantoro Donny , Supadmi Sri
Published: February 2024

Background. Both miscarriage and stillbirth occur in almost 20% of clinical pregnancies, resulting in pregnancy loss. The incidence has been associated with several risk factors and events of maternal adverse health outcomes. Purpose. This study was conducted to analyze some associated factors of pregnancy loss in Indonesia. Methods. This cross-sectional study used the 2017 Indonesia DHS data involving 18,882 female participants aged 15–49 years who had ever had a gestation. Pregnancy loss was the dependent variable, whereas the independent variables included education, employment, wealth status, advanced maternal age, grand multiparity, and cigarette smokers. Finally, the author used binary logistic regression to calculate the determinants. Results. The adjusted risk of pregnancy loss was significantly higher in respondents with lower education levels (AOR=1.25; 95% CI: 1.11-1.41) and employed (AOR=1.19; 95% CI: 1.10-1.29). The lower the wealth status of women, the higher the chance of pregnancy loss. The adjusted risk of pregnancy loss was higher in women of advanced maternal age (AOR=2.03; 95% CI: 1.37-3.02), those with grand multiparity (AOR=1.91; 95% CI: 1.74-2.09), and those who cigarette smokers (AOR=1.53; 95% CI: 1.25-1.87). Conclusion. The study concluded that six variables i.e., education, employment, wealth status, advanced maternal age, grand multiparity, and cigarette smokers are strong predictors of pregnancy loss in Indonesian women. Therefore, the government should make a policy to address the determinants of the pregnancy issue.
CORRELATION OF FAMILY SUPPORT AND FAMILY RESILIENCE WITH DHF PREVENTION BEHAVIOR IN OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Sumarsih Gusti , Freska Windy , Claudia Lara
Published: February 2024

Background: The elderly are a vulnerable age group for Dengue Haemorrhagic Fever (DHF) with a high risk of death. Families must carry out their roles in efforts to prevent DHF in older adults. Purpose: This study aims to identify the correlation between family support and resilience with DHF prevention behavior. Methods: This study used a correlational design to detect a relationship between family support and resilience variables and DHF prevention behavior by older adults. The research location was at the Andalas Health Center in Padang, with 96 randomly recruited from seven elderly Integrated Public Health Centers. The instrument consisted of three closed-question questionnaires. Family support is identified through informational, reward, instrumental, and emotional indicators, while family resilience includes relationship communication, positive framing, and external resources. Data were analyzed using the Spearman Rho test. Results: Most respondents were older adults (73.96%) aged 60-65 (68.75%). The correlation test between family support and family resilience with DHF prevention behavior has a significant relationship (0.00). Testing the correlation partially on each indicator shows the highest level of correlation on the instrumental indicator (0.83). The correlation between family support and resilience was highest on emotional and communication-relationship indicators (0.71). Conclusion: Family support and resilience are correlated with DHF prevention behavior by the elderly. Emotional support from the family through communication appropriate to the older adults' age phase is needed to prevent DHF.
THE APPLICATION OF STOCHASTIC MODEL IN CASCADE RESERVOIR OF SAGULING, CIRATA, AND JATILUHUR DAM FOR RESERVOIR STANDARD OPERATION PROCEDURE
Authors: Utami P D K , Suharsono A W H , Harlan D , Farid M , Rohmat F I W , Nuadagroho E O , Mardiyono A
Published: February 2024

West Java has three cascade reservoirs namely Saguling, Cirata, and Ir. H. Juanda (Jatiluhur). This research was conducted to describe water availability using the stochastic method (ARIMA with RStudio) and to simulate future reservoir operating guidelines. The operating guidelines used for these three reservoirs are based on the modified SNI Pd T-21-2004-A for three conditions, dry, normal, and wet. The 1974 – 2018 Nanjung Station historical discharge data are used. From the preliminary test results, the possible model is ARIMA (1,0,0) (1,0,1) (12) and obtained correlation value of 0.51 and NSE value of 0.084. Forecasting is done for the next 5 years. The equation = 6.4368 + 0.5593. −1 + 0.999. −12 + − 0.9723−12 is obtained and the results have not been able to describe the peak discharge. Dependable discharge is calculated for each condition. From the results of the calculation of the operating guidelines, there is a shortage in November 2020, but the available discharge is still sufficient for PJT II needs. The Jatiluhur Reservoir is hard to be full in June, so it is designed so that the reservoir will be closer to full in May. The water shortage in the calculation of the reservoir operating guidelines happens due to forecasted result that has not been able to describe the peak discharge. Although there are differences, in general the energy produced increases because the water elevation is maintained stable, and the discharge flow is not that different from data in the operating guidelines plan.
Covid-19 and Uncertainty Effects on Tunisian Stock Market Volatility: Insights from GJR-GARCH, Wavelet Coherence, and ARDL
Authors: Trabelsi Emna
Published: February 2024

This study rigorously investigates the impact of COVID-19 on the Tunisian stock market volatility. The investigation spans from January 2020 to December 2022, employing a GJR-GARCH model, bias-corrected wavelet analysis, and an ARDL approach. Specific variables related to health measures and government interventions are incorporated. The findings highlight that confirmed and death cases contribute significantly to the escalation in TUNINDEX volatility. Interestingly, certain indices related to government interventions exhibit no substantial impact on volatility, indicating a weak resilience of the Tunisian stock market amidst the challenges posed by COVID-19. However, the application of the bias-corrected wavelet analysis yields more nuanced outcomes in terms of correlations of volatility to the same metrics. Notably, the study recognizes the potential influence of uncertainties linked to the duration of lockdowns on financial market volatility. The positive and long-term impact on volatility of the US Equity Market uncertainty and VIX is evident through the Autoregressive Distributed Lag Model (ARDL), whereas economic policy uncertainty shows no significant impact. This indicates a potential vulnerability of the Tunisian stock market to future shocks, emphasizing the need for government efforts to instill investor confidence. This comprehensive exploration contributes to our understanding of the dynamics between the pandemic’ metrics, government interventions, and financial market stability. Our findings provide valuable insights for implementing risk management strategies amid the COVID‐19 crisis.
Haptic Technology: A Valuable Paradigm for Reinforcing Learning Processes in Early Childhood Special Education
Authors: Irigoyen Eloy , Larrea Mikel , Graña Manuel
Published: February 2024

Nowadays, it can be observed that all kinds of technology are gradually being incorporated to assist the human being in the performance of their frequent and daily tasks. Technological tools provide means to facilitate, improve, help and support any activity which, in itself, may be complicated, either because of the difficulty involved in carrying it out, or because the person carrying it out has limited capabilities due to the environment not being prepared for their abilities and skills. In this sense, Special Education is currently receiving special attention from researchers, especially those aimed at children. Although the proposals that have appeared recently provide perfect solutions to improve educational processes with ingenious didactic applications, there is still an interesting line of study on how to interact with these younger people in these educational processes. In this sense, haptic technologies can play a very important role, complementing all these solutions by incorporating tools that facilitate direct contact with people, especially in their initial stages, which are the most complicated. This paper aims to provide an overview of haptic technologies and how they present solutions that can be integrated into the aforementioned educational processes.
Roman and Medieval Aqueduct Bridges on the Landscape of Spain: Issues of Construction
Authors: Doolittle William E.
Published: February 2024

Transporting water from one side of a valley or gorge to the other requires construction of an aqueduct bridge or elevated aqueduct. These features are striking elements on cultural landscapes. Unlike previous research that emphasized architecture or design and relied on documentary sources and published works, this study focuses on details of construction and first-hand observation. Roman and Medieval elevated aqueducts in Spain were subjected to rigorous field examination. Marked variations were found to exist between structures of each age. No two aqueduct bridges are alike indicating the absence of standard designs. Locally available materials were used. Construction seems to have been overseen and carried out by individuals who possessed inconsistent degrees of skill. Roman treatises discussed aqueduct bridges, but not how to build them. Many palaces were clearly designed and built by highly skilled personnel during Medieval times, but more mundane public works projects such as aqueducts appear to have been carried out by less-skilled individuals. These findings have implications regarding the construction of elevated aqueducts by Spaniards in the Americas during the 16th century.
Efectividad del inductor extracto de pituitaria de paiche (EPP) Arapaima gigas sobre la liberación de productos gonádicos en hembras de Gamitana Colossoma macropomum
Authors:   , Rivera Llerena Gabriel Orlando
Published: February 2024

En la Amazonia peruana, desde hace tres décadas el cultivo de Colossoma macropomum se expandió con la producción de alevinos y la búsqueda de nuevas alternativas de inductores de reproducción para la reducción de los costos de producción. Este trabajo evaluó la efectividad de diferentes concentraciones de extracto de pituitaria de Arapaima gigas “paiche” (EPP) en la obtención de productos gonádicos en hembras de C. macropomum “gamitana”. Se evaluó un total de 50 especímenes, 10 ejemplares para cada concentración de EPP (6, 5, 4, 3,5 y 3 mg/kg) con un peso promedio de 6,59 ± 1,74 kg, longitud estándar promedio de 61,62 ± 5,52 cm y un factor de condición de k = 2,77 ± 0,32. Los tratamientos fueron suministrados en dos dosis, siendo la primera una estimulante (10%) y 12 horas después la segunda dosis (desencadenante) del 90% restante. Los análisis mostraron resultados similares en todos los tratamientos respecto al nivel del número de ovocitos (p > 0.05 para la prueba de X2). Se observó un mayor porcentaje de oviposición de C. macropomum a una concentración de 3,5 mg/kg (100% de hembras desovadas) y menor a 4 mg/kg (70% de hembras desovadas); sin embargo, no presentaron diferencias significativas. Por otro lado, algunos tratamientos lograron la oviposición a la primera dosis (estimulante) (p < 0.05 para la prueba de X2), lo que sugiere futuras investigaciones con dosis menores a 3,5 mg/kg. Todas las concentraciones utilizadas lograron la oviposición de C. macropomum y demostraron la eficacia del EPP como inductor de desove.
A dual-circuit causal model of depression in humans
Authors: Frandsen Summer , Glover Cory , Cash Robin , Blumberger Daniel , Choi Ki Sueng , Dougherty Darin , Downar Jonathan , Fitzgerald Paul , George Mark , Horn Andreas , Grospietsch Friederike , Johnson Kevin , Kühn Andrea , Mayberg Helen , Pascual-Leone Alvaro , Riva-Posse Patricio , Rouhl Rob , Schaper Frederic , Taylor Stephan , Temel Yasin , Vila-Rodriguez Fidel , Zalesky Andrew , Grafman Jordan , Siddiqi Shan
Published: February 2024

Therapeutic brain stimulation targets are typically designed to treat specific psychiatric or neurological symptoms.1–4 This approach presents a dilemma when treating patients with comorbidities, atypical symptom profiles, or overlapping symptoms. Identifying targets that modulate groups of behavioral or cognitive symptoms across diagnoses may provide alternative treatment options and outcomes. Here, we use causal brain mapping and clustering methods to identify two distinct brain networks, based on common patterns of connectivity to lesions that selectively modify behaviors and symptoms. Due to the behavioral items in each cluster, we hypothesize that these networks are related to positive and negative affect, respectively. Across ten different datasets of patients receiving transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) or deep brain stimulation (DBS),1,5,6 stimulation site connectivity to each of our two brain networks independently predicted improvement in depressive symptoms. Thus, we defined two networks which are independently and causally involved in depression symptoms.
Observation of the non-Hermitian skin effect and Fermi skin on a digital quantum computer
Authors: Lee Ching Hua , Shen Ruizhe , Chen Tianqi , Yang Bo
Published: February 2024

Non-Hermitian physics has attracted considerable attention in the recent years, in particular the non-Hermitian skin effect (NHSE) for its extreme sensitivity and non-locality. While the NHSE has been physically observed in various classical metamaterials and even ultracold atomic arrays, its highly-nontrivial implications in many-body dynamics have never been experimentally investigated. In this work, we report the first observation of the NHSE on a universal quantum processor, as well as its characteristic but elusive Fermi skin from many-fermion statistics. To implement NHSE dynamics on a quantum computer, the effective time-evolution circuit not only needs to be non-reciprocal and non-unitary, but must also be scaled up to a sufficient number of lattice qubits to achieve spatial non-locality. We show how such a non-unitary operation can be systematically realized by post-selecting multiple ancilla qubits, as demonstrated through two paradigmatic non-reciprocal models on a noisy IBM quantum processor, with clear signatures of asymmetric spatial propagation and many-body Fermi skin accumulation. To minimize errors from inevitable device noise, time evolution is performed using a trainable optimized quantum circuit produced with variational quantum algorithms. Our study represents a critical milestone in the quantum simulation of non-Hermitian lattice phenomena on present-day quantum computers, and can be readily generalized to more sophisticated many-body models with the remarkable programmability of quantum computers.
ABHD6 loss-of-function in mesoaccumbens postsynaptic but not presynaptic neurons prevents diet-induced obesity
Authors: Fulton Stephanie , Lau David , Tobin Stephanie , Pribiag Horia , Nakajima Shingo , Fisette Alexandre , Matthys Dominique , Flores Anna Kristyna Franco , Peyot Marie-Line , Madiraju S.R. Murthy , Stellwagen David , Alquier Thierry , Prentki Marc
Published: February 2024

α/β-hydrolase domain 6 (ABHD6) is a lipase linked to physiological functions affecting metabolism and body weight. Brain ABHD6 degrades 2-arachidonoylglycerol and thereby modulates cannabinoid receptor signaling. However, it’s functional role within mesoaccumbens circuitry that is critical for motivated behavior and known to be significantly modulated by endocannabinoids remained unknown. Using three viral approaches, we show that control of the nucleus accumbens by neuronal ABHD6 is a key determinant of body weight and reward-relevant behavior. Contrary to expected outcomes associated with increasing endocannabinoid tone, ABHD6 loss of function in the nucleus accumbens, but not the ventral tegmental area, inhibited food reward and completely prevented diet-induced obesity and associated physical inactivity without affecting anxiodepressive behavior. These effects are explained by attenuated inhibitory synaptic transmission onto medium spiny neurons. ABHD6 deletion in nucleus accumbens neurons and dopamine ventral tegmental area neurons produced contrasting effects on food-directed behavior. Together, these results reveal functional specificity of pre- and post-synaptic mesoaccumbens neuronal ABHD6 to differentially control energy metabolism and propose ABHD6 inhibition as a potential anti-obesity tool.
Time to recovery of asphyxiated neonates and it’s predictors among newborns admitted to neonatal intensive care unit at Debre Berhan Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia
Authors: Girma Sisay , Tesfahun Esubalew , Mamo Tadesse , Abebe Zenebe
Published: February 2024

Background Even though there have been inquiries into the survival rates of asphyxiated neonates in Africa, there is scarce data concerning the recovery duration for asphyxiated newborns in developing nations and the factors affecting this process. Consequently, the objective of this study is to ascertain the time it takes for asphyxiated neonates to recover and identify its predictors. Methods Conducting a retrospective follow-up investigation, the study took place at Debre Berhan Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from January 1st, 2020 to December 31st 2022, involving a sample size of 330. The analysis included the computation of the Kaplan-Meier survival curve, the log-rank test, and the median time. Additionally, a multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression model was employed to determine the survival status. Results in this study, among the 330 participants (100%), a total of 270(81.8%) successfully survived throughout the entire cohort. Predictors are independent of each other, affecting the time to recovery and survival of asphyxiated neonates, encompassed prolonged labor (AHR: 0.42 ,95%CI:0.21–0.81), normal birth weight (AHR:2.21 ,95% CI: 1.30–3.70),non-altered consciousness (AHR:2.52 ,CI:1.50–4.24) ,non-depressed moro reflex of the newborn (AHR:2.40 ,95%CI: 1.03–5.61), stage I HIE (AHR: 5.11 ,95% CI: 1.98–13.19) ,and direct oxygen administration via the nose (AHR: 4.18 ,95% CI: 2.21–7.89). Conclusion The duration for recovery seems to be slightly prolonged in comparison to other research findings. This underscores the significance of vigilant monitoring, early preventive interventions, and swift actions to avert the progression of infants to the most severe stage of HIE.
Analysis on the impact of table tennis elective courses on college students' physical fitness and competitive skills
Authors: Chen Baibing , Xie Dongfang , Xiao Xiangyu , Cai Hangchuan , Hu Yongqing
Published: February 2024

Table tennis is one of the sports that are particularly popular among university students. Given the significant differences in students' athletic abilities and physical functions, how to improve their competitive level and physical health has becoming noticeable problems via table tennis. To solve problems such as passive student participation, insufficient training, an imbalance between in-class and extracurricular activities, and low levels of physical fitness, this study utilized a 3 + 1 digital class to activate student interesting and a combined teaching and competition platform to enhance table tennis skills, which was explored the impact of integrating in-class and extracurricular table tennis elective courses on improving students' physical fitness and competitive levels. The results indicate that students table tennis competitive abilities and physical health have significantly improved after the reform, which is provides references for enhancing the quality of table tennis instruction, improving university students’ physical health, and promoting the universal applicability of table tennis teaching reforms in higher education institutions.
Evaluation of early joint damage via ultrasound imaging in patients with psoriasis: a single center retrospective study
Authors: Qi Fei , Yao Amin , Yang Xutong , He Yanling
Published: February 2024

Background:
Psoriatic joint damage is occult and often asymptomatic, however, it can cause irreversible permanent joint damage in the late stage and affect the quality of life of patients. It is important to identify potential joint damage early and slow the progression of the disease.
Objective: This study aimed to explore the risk factors for early joint damage in patients with psoriasis vulgaris using color Doppler ultrasonography.
Methods：
Hand joint Doppler ultrasound data of 100 patients with skin psoriasis in the outpatient department of Dermatology of Beijing Chaoyang Hospital from July 2017 to December 2021 were reviewed. We also reviewed the clinical characteristics between the two groups of patients, using statistical methods to analyze the differences in the risk factors between patients with and without symptomatic joint damage and those without joint damage under the early ultrasonic detection of psoriasis.
Results：
In this study, 100 patients with psoriasis vulgaris were examined using grayscale Doppler ultrasonography. 65 cases (65%) were male, and 39 (39.0%) had joint damage. Two out of 39 patients had psoriatic arthritis in the following 3 years. After multivariate logistic regression analysis, it was found that the independent risk factors for joint damage in patients with psoriasis vulgaris were age (OR: 1.659, 95% CI: 1.217-2.261, P = 0.001), total cholesterol or 1.625, 95% CI: 1.053-2.292, P = 0.006), age at first onset (OR: 1.329, 95% CI: 1.049-1.683, P = 0.019), course of disease ( 1.615, 95% CI: 1.113-1.799, P = 0.005), nail accumulation (OR: 4.137, 95% CI: 1.755-9.752, P = 0.001), smoking (OR: 10.337, 95% CI: 4.109-26.009, P = 0.000), and diabetes (OR:8.575, 95%CI:1.868-39.362, P=0.006).
Conclusion:
Patients with psoriasis vulgaris and a history of nail damage, smoking, drinking, coronary heart disease, and hyperlipidemia were more likely to have early joint damage. Patients with psoriasis vulgaris with age, elevated total cholesterol, early onset age, nail accumulation, smoking history, and diabetes history should be removed early using joint Doppler ultrasound to exclude early joint damage.
Aging and rare diseases: from epidemiology to a call to action
Authors: Mazzucato Monica , Fanton Giulia , Vianello Andrea , Minichiello Cinzia , Pozza Laura Visonà Dalla , Toto Ema , Ceolin Chiara , Coin Alessandra , Sergi Giuseppe , Facchin Paola
Published: February 2024

Background
The number of older people living with a rare disease (RD) is increasing worldwide due to the population aging and scientific progress. This phenomenon poses several challenges for both patients and healthcare providers, who need to be aware of the peculiarities of this twice-as-frail population.
Methods
In the present study, we used data from the Veneto region rare disease registry (VRRDR) to investigate the epidemiology of older people living with a RD in the Veneto region of Italy. We report the number of patients diagnosed in old age and the number of those transited from adulthood into old age, estimating the prevalence of older RD patients as of 31 December 2022. Finally, we analyzed the composition of their therapeutic plans.
Results
During the study period, 8,975 patients received an RD diagnosis after 65 years of age, while 4,214 diagnosed in their childhood or adulthood experienced the transition to old age. On 31 December 2022, there were 9,508 patients aged 65 years or more residing in the study area, 20.8% of all Veneto’s RD patients. The most common groups of RDs in elderly patients were systemic or rheumatologic, neurologic, and skin diseases, affecting 27%, 25%, and 9% of the monitored geriatric population, respectively. Among prevalent cases, 1,519 patients older than 65 years had a therapeutic plan related to their rare condition. Specifically, the most prescribed drugs were those affecting the nervous system (27.8%), the alimentary tract and metabolism (12.8%), and antineoplastic and immunomodulating agents (11.6%).
Conclusions
As older patients represent a growing number in the RD population, geriatricians and general practitioners should be involved in RD care and training programs. Further studies are needed to determine the unmet care needs of older RD patients in order to design health policies able to address the peculiar challenges posed by this group of patients emerging within the RD population.
Do “oversized” Hall Technique crowns affect intra-arch dimensions? A split-mouth quasi experimental pilot study
Authors: Hussein Iyad , AlRamzi Batoul , Halabi Manal Al , Kowash Mawlood , Salami Anas , Hassan Amar , Ghoneima Ahmed
Published: February 2024

Background: The Hall-Technique preformed-metal-crowns (HT-PMCs) are allegedly oversized, temporarily altering inter-arch relationships.Intra-archdimensions/Leeway-space (LWS) HT effects are unknown.Aim:To study single HT-PMC intra-arch effects and treated tooth dimensional changes.Materials and Methods:Split-mouth quasi-experimental pilot study. Intra oral scans (iTeroII®) were taken pre-orthodontic separator placement (scan1), immediately post single HT-PMC (scan2) and 1-month later (scan3) in 13 children. Control/ study quadrants’ lengths (“arcs”), and HT-PMC/control tooth dimensions [mesiodistal (MD), buccopalatal/lingual (BP/L), diagonal (Diag1/Diag2)] were recorded inmm(OrthoCad®software). Paired t-test, repeated ANOVApost-hocanalysis statistics (p<0.05).Results:Compared to scan1,the mean study-arc increased by 0.69mm (±0.54) [(n=13, t-test, p<0.001) at scan2,while at scan3,it increased by 0.787mm (±0.34) [(n=8, Repeated ANOVA, p=0.008)]. The HT-PMC treated tooth mean dimensions increased at scan2by 0.86mm (MD), 0.8mm (BP/L), 0.5mm (Diag1) and 0.69mm (Diag2) (t-test, p<0.001) with similar observations at scan3. There were no significant changes in the control arc nor the control tooth measurements.Conclusion:HT-PMCs increased the intra-arch quadrant length by approximately >1mm. The HT-PMC treated tooth was marginally oversized. This may potentially increase the LWS and contribute to impaction of unerupted first permanent molars, if more than one PMC was used in the quadrant/arch.
Clinical features of acute glufosinate ammonium and initial serum ammonia and CK-MB as early predictors of unfavorable prognosis
Authors: Xue Xiang , Xie Donghui , Shen Yulan , Huang Changbao
Published: February 2024

This retrospective study was conducted on 67 patients who suffered from acute oral glufosinate ammonium poisoning to summarize a comprehensive overview of the clinical characteristics. General clinical data and laboratory test results were collected from the time of admission to hospital discharge. The most common clinical symptom of GA poisoning were nausea and vomiting, The incidence of unfavorable outcomes and the mortality of GA poisoning were 41.8% and 13.4%. The unfavorable outcomes group had a higher initial serum ammonia level (75.7±17.3umol/L vs 47.5±12.8umol/L, P<0.001), more ingestion amount of GA (103.6±63.4ml vs 72.3±37.7ml, P=0.032) and higher-level CK-MB (43.5 U/L vs 16.0 U/L, P=0.002) compared to favorable outcomes groups. Multiple logistic regression analyses showed the initial serum ammonia (OR=1.031, 95%CI, 1.069-1.197, P<0.001)，ingestion amount of GA (OR=1.017, 95%CI, 0.997-1.039, P=0.013) and CK-MB (OR=1.017, 95%CI, 0.997-1.039, P=0.013) levels were independently associated with unfavorable outcomes. Receive operator characteristic (ROC) curves were used to determine the optimal initial serum ammonia level (62.7mmol/L with sensitivity of 85.7% and specificity of 87.2%, and AUC=0.873, 95%CI, 0.773-0.974, P<0.001), CK-MB level (43.5U/L with sensitivity of 42.9% and specificity of 87.2%, and AUC=0.680, 95%CI, 0.562-0.809, P=0.012) and the ingestion amount(110ml with sensitivity of 32.1% and specificity of 92.3%, and AUC=0.652, 95%CI, 0.518-0.786, P=0.035) respectively.The patients with GA poisoning may exhibit clinical symptoms of gastrointestinal and neurological toxicity, as well as respiratory failure after latent period that we need to pay special attention to prepare. Initial serum and CK-MB might be better accurate prognostic factors for predicting the unfavorable outcomes.
Immune cell patterns before and after neoadjuvant immune checkpoint blockade combined with chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zheng Dan-Dan , Li Yu-Ying , Yuan Xiao-Yi , Lu Jiang-Li , Zhang Mei-Fang , Fu Jia , Zhang Chris Zhiyi
Published: February 2024

Background: Neoadjuvant immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) combined with chemoradiotherapy offers high pathologic complete response (pCR) rate for patients with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinomas (ESCC). But the dynamic tumor immune microenvironment modulated by such neoadjuvant therapy remains unclear.
Patients and methods: A total of 41 patients with locally advanced ESCC were recruited. Paired matched pre- and post-treatment tissues were obtained for fluorescent multiplex immunohistochemistry (mIHC) and IHC analyses. The densities and spatial distributions of immune cells were determined by HALO modules.
Results: The differences of immune cell patterns before and after treatment were investigated, using matched paired tissues of 41 patients who received R0 resection. In the pretreatment tissues, more stromal CD3+FoxP3+ Tregs and CD86+/CD163+ macrophages were observed in patients with residual tumor existed in the resected lymph nodes (pN1), compared with pCR patients. Spatial analyses showed majority of macrophages were mainly distributed in close proximity to tumor nest in pN1 patients. In the posttreatment tissues, pCR patients had less CD86+ cells infiltration, whereas higher CD86+ cell densities were significantly associated with higher tumor regression grades (TRG) in non-pCR patients. When comparing the paired pre- and post-treatment samples, heterogeneous tumor-associated immune cell patterns were found. Upon to the treatment, CD3+ T lymphocytes were slightly increased in pCR patients, but markedly decreased in non-pCRs. In contrast, a noticeable increase and a less obvious decrease of CD86+ cell infiltration was depicted in non-pCRs and pCRs, respectively. Furthermore, opposite trends of the treatment-induced alterations of CD8+ and CD15+ cells were observed between pN0 and pN1 patients.
Conclusions: Collectively, our data demonstrate a comprehensive picture of tumor immune landscape before and after neoadjuvant ICB combined with chemoradiotherapy, and therefore provide rationale for the further improvement of neoadjuvant therapy in ESCC.
Going ballistic: a new method for interfacial energy gap determination
Authors: Zhou Xuehua , Chen Yushu , Li Qingxia , Yang Shixing , Han Chao
Published: February 2024

As a kernel attribute of molecular semiconductor, the energy gap fundamentally determines the working principle which is crucial to the device performance optimization, such as the photoelectric conversion efficiency of organic solar cells. Therefore, a precise quantification for energy gap of a molecular semiconductor is crucial. A three-terminal vertical structure (Al/AlOX/Au/ molecular semiconductor/Al), named hot electron transistor has been verified to be the most powerful method for energy gap determination. The Al/AlOX/Au tunneling junction is used for energy regulation and the Au/ molecular semiconductor/Al diode is applied for providing an authentic device. By monitoring the charge transport behaviors in the real device, the electron injected barrier (or LUMO) and hole injected barrier (or HOMO) could be obtained, which makes for the interfacial energy gap determination. This research develops a handy tool for the ordinary research groups working in molecular electronics. It will contribute to the rapid development of molecular electronics.
Understanding Lactation Policies and Resources Across a University System: Survey & Document Review
Authors: Ashby Emily L. , Donepudi Sritha , Padilla Heather M.
Published: February 2024

Background: In the U.S., working women often return to work within 8-12 weeks of giving birth, therefore, it is critical that workplaces provide support for female employees combining breastfeeding and work. The Affordable Care Act requires any organization with more than 50 employees to provide a space other than a restroom for women to express breastmilk and a reasonable amount of time during the workday for women to express breastmilk. States and worksites differ in the implementation of ACA requirements and may or may not provide additional supports for female employees combining breastfeeding and work. The purpose of this study was to conduct an analysis of 26 institutions within a state university system to evaluate the differences in breastfeeding policies and resources available on each campus.
Methods: Survey data was collected from well-being liaisons in the human resources departments at each institution. In addition, we conducted a document review of policies and online materials at each institution. We used univariate statistics to summarize survey results while a thematic analysis was used to analyze institutional resources available on websites and in policies provided by the liaisons.
Results: A total of 18 (65.3%) liaisons participated in the study and revealed an overall lack of familiarity with the policies in place and inconsistencies in the resources offered to breastfeeding employees across the university system. Only half of the participating liaisons reported a formal breastfeeding policy was in place on their campus. From the document review six major themes were identified: placing the burden on female employees, describing pregnancy or postpartum as “disability,” having a university specific policy, inclusion of break times for breastfeeding, supervisor responsibility, and information on lactation policies.
Conclusion: The review of each institutions online resources confirmed the survey findings and highlighted the burden placed on female employees to discover the available resources and advocate for their needs. This paper provides insight into how institutions support breastfeeding employees and provides implications on strategies to develop policies at universities to improve breastfeeding access for working mothers.