bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nuevo hito en el caso Prestige
Authors: Alba Fernández Manuel
Published: March 2024

El accidente del buque Prestige, acaecido en aguas jurisdiccionales españolas hace ahora poco más de 20 años, ha dejado una larga estela de litigios, tanto judiciales como arbitrales. Una parte importante de las controversias generadas por el suceso se refiere la compensación de los daños causados por la contaminación provocada por los hidrocarburos transportados a bordo del buque. En el episodio más reciente de estas secuelas litigiosas, la High Court of Justice de Inglaterra y Gales deniega el reconocimiento del auto de ejecución dictado por la Audiencia Provincial de A Coruña en 2019, que obliga al asegurador del propietario del buque (el London Club) a pagar daños por encima del límite previsto en la normativa marítima internacional. La sentencia inglesa fue emitida tras una cuestión prejudicial elevada por el juez nacional al Tribunal de Justicia de la Unión Europea. La High Court decide apartándose del criterio interpretativo del TJUE y rechazando su carácter vinculante, al enfocar el efecto de dicho pronunciamiento desde una perspectiva jurisdiccional, en lugar de como una cuestión de fondo.
¿Tienen competencia (internacional e interna) los tribunales españoles para modificar una decisión de alimentos en los supuestos transfronterizos?
Authors: Marchal Escalona  Nuria
Published: March 2024

La complejidad es una de las características innatas al Derecho internacional privado. Saber qué problemas plantean las relaciones privadas internacionales y cómo se resuelven es, hoy en día, una asignatura todavía pendiente para muchos de nuestros Juzgados y Tribunales, como así lo demuestra la Sentencia dictada por la Audiencia Provincial de Cáceres con fecha de 29 mayo 2023. En ella se evidencian errores que lejos de ser simples y compresibles, son inexplicables e inconcebibles. Acredita no solo el desconocimiento de los conceptos más básicos de nuestra disciplina, sino también de las fuentes que lo regulan.
La falta de alegación y prueba del Derecho extranjero aplicable. A propósito de la sentencia 183/2023 de la Audiencia Provincial de A Coruña (sección 3ª), de 24 de mayo
Authors: Vilar González Silvia
Published: March 2024

La Audiencia Provincial de A Coruña resolvió el 24 de mayo de 2023 un recurso de apelación interpuesto contra una sentencia que, a su vez, declaraba caducada una acción de impugnación de la filiación de un menor de nacionalidad venezolana y establecía una prestación alimenticia a su favor. En su sentencia, la Audiencia tras analizar los puntos de conexión que atribuyen jurisdicción y competencia a los tribunales españoles y que permiten determinar el Derecho aplicable en este tipo de supuestos, argumenta sobre la posibilidad de aplicar de oficio el Derecho extranjero pese a la falta de alegación y prueba del mismo por parte de los interesados.
Superior compatibility of silicon nanowire anodes in ionic liquid electrolytes
Authors: Maresca Giovanna , Sankaran Abinaya , Santa Maria Luigi J. , Ottaviani Michela , Fantini Sebastien , Ryan Kevin M. , Brutti Sergio , Appetecchi Giovanni Battista
Published: March 2024

Silicon nanowire anodes were investigated in lithium-metal cells using different electrolyte formulations based on 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide and N -trimethyl-N -butyl-ammonium bis(fluoro sulfonyl)imide ionic liquids. The lithium insertion process in the silicon anode was analyzed by cyclic voltammetry measurements, performed at different scan rates and for prolonged cycles, combined with impedance spectroscopy analysis. A galvanostatic charge-discharge cycling test was performed to analyze the electrochemical performances using different types of ionic liquids. A study of the Solid Electrolyte Interphase layer on the silicon nanowire electrode surface was carried out through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. In general, the silicon anodes in 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide-based electrolytes show very good reversibility, reproducibility, and efficiency in the lithiation process, even at high scan rates, and exhibit a reversible capacity exceeding 1,000 mA h g-1 after 2,000 charge-discharge cycles, corresponding to 46% of the initial value.
Accessibiliser une formation hybride
Authors: Delépée Carla , Hébert Camille
Published: March 2024

Accessibiliser les environnements éducatifs afin de favoriser l’accès au plus grand nombre d’étudiants à l’enseignement supérieur est aujourd’hui un devoir légal (Ebersold, 2017). L’égalité d’accès à l’université passe par « l’opérationnalité inclusive des ressources numériques » utilisées dans les formations (Benoit et al., 2017). Concevoir une formation universitaire hybride fondée sur les enjeux de l’accessibilité universelle des apprentissages (Rose & Meyer, 2002) implique donc de rendre ses contenus accessibles et de proposer une pédagogie au regard de la conception universelle des apprentissages.Nous présentons la démarche et les résultats de « l’accessibilisation » (Ebersold, 2021) d’un module de formation hybride sur la thématique de l’éducation inclusive, conçu par des enseignants-chercheurs dans le cadre de l’action 3 du pôle pilote 100 % Inclusion, un Défi, un Territoire (IDT), à destination des formateurs d’INSPÉ.L’accessibilisation de ce module a mobilisé les expertises croisées du service d’appui à la pédagogie universitaire, des concepteurs de la formation et du relais handicap. Nous avons formalisé, à partir de notre démarche, une méthodologie de mise en accessibilité d’un cours hybride, qui est mise à disposition des enseignants universitaires et des partenaires du projet 100 % IDT pour développer l’accessibilisation des enseignements universitaires.
DECLAREd: A Polytime LTLf Fragment
Authors: Bergami Giacomo
Published: March 2024

This paper considers a specific fragment of Linear Temporal Logic for Finite traces, DECLAREd, which, to the best of our knowledge, we prove for the first time to be a {polytime} fragment of LTLf. We derive this in terms of the following ancillary results: we propose a set of novel LTLf equivalence rules that, when applied to \LTLf specifications, lead to an equivalent specification which can be computed faster by any existing verified temporal artificial intelligence task. We also introduce the concept of temporal non-simultaneity, prescribing that two activities shall never satisfy the same atom, and temporal short-circuit, that occurs when a specification interpreted in LTL would accept an infinitely long trace while, on LTLf, it can be rewritten so to postulate the absence of certain activity labels. We test these considerations over formal synthesis (Lydia), SAT-Solvers (AALTAF) and formal verification (KnoBAB) tools, where formal verification can be also run on top of a relational database and can be therefore expressed in terms of relational query answering. We show that all these benefit from the aforementioned assumptions, as running their tasks over a rewritten equivalent specification will improve their running times.
A Simplified Screening Model to Predict the Risk of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Caucasian and Latin American Pregnant Women
Authors: Arnoriaga-Rodríguez María , Serrano Irene , Paz-Cabezas Mateo , Barabash Ana , Valerio Johanna , Del Valle Laura , Martin O´Connor Rocio , Melero Verónica , De Miguel Novoa María Paz , Díiaz Angel , Familiar Cristina , Moraga Inmaculada , Pazos Mario , Martinez-Novillo Mercedes , Rubio Herrera Miguel Ángel , Marcuello Clara , Ramos-Leví Ana M. , Matía-Martín Pilar , Calle-Pascual Alfonso
Published: March 2024

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) pathophysiology comprises clinical and genetic factors. In fact, GDM has been associated with several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). This study aimed to build a prediction model of GDM combining clinical and genetic risk factors. A total of 1588 pregnant women from the San Carlos Cohort participated in the present study, 1069 (67.3%) Caucasian (CAU) and 519 (32.7%) Latin American (LAT), 255 (16.1%) with GDM. The incidence of GDM was similar in both groups (16.1% CAU and 16.0% LAT). Genotyping was performed by IPLEX Mass ARRAY PCR selecting 110 SNPs based on literature references. The SNPs showing the strongest likelihood of GDM development were the rs10830963, rs7651090 and rs1371614 in CAU and rs1387153 and the rs9368222 in LAT. Clinical variables including age, pre-pregnancy body mass index and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) at 12 gestational weeks predicted the risk of GDM (AUC 0.648, 95%CI 0.601-0.695 in CAU; AUC 0.688, 95%CI 0.628-9.748 in LAT) and adding the SNPs modestly improved prediction (AUC 0.722, 95%CI 0.680-0.764 in CAU; AUC 0.769, 95%CI 0.711-0.826 in LAT). In conclusion, adding genetic variants enhanced the prediction model of GDM risk in CAU and LAT pregnant women. An RCT is underway to demonstrate its usefulness
Multi-Time-Scale Energy Storage Optimization Configuration for Power Balance in Distribution Systems
Authors: Lu Qiuyu , Zhang Xiaoman , Yang Yinguo , Hu Qianwen , Wu Guobing , Huang Yuxiong , Liu Yang , Li Gengfeng
Published: March 2024

As the adoption of renewable energy sources grows, ensuring a stable power balance across various time frames has become a central challenge for modern power systems. In line with the "dual carbon" objectives and the seamless integration of renewable energy sources, harnessing the advantages of various energy storage resources and coordinating the operation of long-term and short-term storage have become pivotal directions for future energy storage deployment. To address the complexities arising from the coupling of different time scales in optimizing energy storage capacity, this paper proposes a method for energy storage planning that accounts for power imbalance risks across multiple time scales. Initially, the Seasonal and Trend decomposition using the Loess (STL) decomposition method is utilized to temporally decouple actual operational data. Subsequently, power balance computations are performed based on the obtained data at various time scales to optimize the allocation of different types of energy storage capacities and assess the associated imbalance risks. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed approach is validated through hourly applications using real-world data from a province in China over recent years.
Depressive Symptoms and Gut Microbiota after Bowel Preparation and Colonoscopy: A Pre-post Intervention Study
Authors: McGuinness Amelia , O'Hely Martin , Stupart Douglas , Watters David , Dawson Samantha , Hair Christopher , Berk Michael , Mohebbi Mohammadreza , Loughman Amy , Guest Glenn , Jacka Felice
Published: March 2024

Objective: Mechanical bowel preparation is essential for the visualisation of the colon during colonoscopy, and previous studies have identified changes in gut microbiota composition after bowel preparation and colonoscopy. Considering the gut microbiota is increasingly implicated in mood, we aimed to explore the potential impact of this intervention on mood and the microbiota-gut-brain axis. Methods: We conducted a pre-post intervention study, with timepoints of one week before and one month after bowel preparation and colonoscopy, in community-dwelling adults referred for colonoscopy. Our primary outcome was change in average Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale depression sub-scores using generalised estimating equations. We also examined changes in average anxiety, stress, and quality of life scores, and faecal microbiota composition and potential function using 16S rRNA sequencing. We further explored associations between changes in depressive symptoms and the gut microbiota and conducted post-hoc analyses to explore potential effect modifiers. Key Results: 59 participants were included in the analyses. Depressive symptoms decreased one-month post-procedure compared to baseline (adjusted β=−0.64; 95%CI: −1.18, −0.11). Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) appeared to moderate this relationship (1.78; 0.292, 3.26); depressive symptoms increased in those with, and decreased in those without, IBS. Changes in gut microbiome composition included reduced alpha diversity, modest effects on beta-diversity, and increases in genera associated with potential health benefits, one-month post-procedure compared to baseline. Increases in the CLR-transformed abundance of Ruminococcaceae UCG-009 were associated with improvements in depressive symptoms. Conclusions: There is preliminary evidence of a potential mental health effect of bowel preparation and colonoscopy, which may be associated with changes to the gut microbiota. There may also be a differential mental health impact of this procedure for those with and without IBS. Considering the limitations of our study, further research is required to confirm these findings and their clinical relevance.
Ingested Microplastics Act as Microbial Vectors
Authors: Jawdhari Abdulhusein , Deák György , Mihăilescu Dan Florin , Crăciun Nicolai , Staicu Andrea Cristina , Stanca Ioana , Cozorici Derniza , Fendrihan Sergiu , Pop Cristian-Emilian , Mernea Maria
Published: March 2024

Microplastics (plastic particles < 5 mm) are ubiquitous pollutants that pose the ability to carry microbiota, including pathogens. Microbial adhesion is usually a sign of pathogenicity, thus we investigated the adherent strains found on 4 mm nylon strips, which were ingested and excreted by wild fish specimens. Polymer analysis of the excreted samples shown no signs of degradation, nor have their controls, represented by the nylon strips submerged in the same water tanks. Both the ingested samples and controls presented pathogens in large numbers, revealing the fact that nylon microplastics can be physical carriers for pathogens in the aquatic environment.
Impact of Workplace Bullying on Quiet Quitting in Nurses: The Mediating Effect of Coping Strategies
Authors: Galanis Petros , Moisoglou Ioannis , Katsiroumpa Aglaia , Malliarou Maria , Vraka Irene , Gallos Parisis , Kalogeropoulou Maria , Papathanasiou Ioanna V.
Published: March 2024

Workplace bullying is common among nurses affecting negatively several work-related variables, such as job burnout and job satisfaction. However, no study until now has examined the impact of workplace bullying on quiet quitting among nurses. Thus, our aim was to examine the direct effect of workplace bullying on quiet quitting and to investigate the mediating effect of coping strategies on the relationship between workplace bullying and quiet quitting in nurses. We conducted a cross-sectional study with a convenience sample of 650 nurses in Greece. We collected our data during February 2024. We used the Negative Acts Questionnaire-Revised, the Quiet Quitting Scale and the Brief COPE to measure workplace bullying, quiet quitting and coping strategies, respectively. We found that workplace bullying and negative coping strategies were positive predictors of quiet quitting, while positive coping strategies was a negative predictor of quiet quitting. Our mediation analysis showed that positive and negative coping strategies partially mediated the relationship between workplace bullying and quiet quitting. In particular, positive coping strategies caused competitive mediation, while negative coping strategies caused complimentary mediation. Nurses’ managers and policy makers should improve working conditions by reducing workplace bullying and strengthening positive coping strategies among nurses.
Earthquake-Induced Landslides in Italy: Evaluation of the Triggering Potential Based on Seismic Hazard
Authors: Azhideh Sina , Barani Simone , Ferretti Gabriele , Scafidi Davide
Published: March 2024

In this study, we define screening maps for Italy that classify sites based on their potential for triggering landslides. To this end, we analyze seismic hazard maps and hazard disaggregation results on a national scale considering four spectral periods (0.01s, 0.2s, 0.5s, and 1.0s) and three return periods (475, 975, and 2475 years). First, joint distributions of magnitude (M) and distance (R) from hazard disaggregation are analyzed by means of an innovative approach based on image processing techniques to find all modal scenarios contributing to the hazard. In order to obtain the M-R scenarios controlling the triggering of earthquake-induced landslides at any computation node, mean and modal M-R pairs are compared to empirical curves defining the M-R bounds associated with landslide triggering. Three types of landslides are considered (i.e., disrupted slides and falls, coherent slides, and lateral spreads and flows). As a result, screening maps for all of Italy showing the potential for triggering landslides based on the level of seismic hazard are obtained. The maps and the related data are freely accessible at the following web address: https://distav.unige.it/rsni/slideq.php.
The Many Faces of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease Treatment: From the Mediterranean Diet to Fecal Microbiota Transplantation
Authors: Abenavoli Ludovico , Gambardella Maria Luisa , Scarlata Giuseppe Guido Maria , Lenci Ilaria , Baiocchi Leonardo , Luzza Francesco
Published: March 2024

The gastrointestinal tract is inhabited by the gut microbiota. The main phyla are Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. In non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, now renamed metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), an increase in Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes abundance promotes its pathogenesis and evolution into non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. For this reason, an early treatment is necessary to disfavor its progression. The aim of the present narrative review is to evaluate the different therapeutic approaches to MAFLD. The most important treatment for MAFLD is lifestyle changes. In this regard, the Mediterranean diet could be considered the gold standard in the prevention and treatment of MAFLD. In contrast, a Western diet should be discouraged. Probiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation seem to be valid, safe, and effective alternatives for MAFLD treatment. However, more studies with a longer follow up and with a larger cohort of patients are needed to underline the more effective ap-proaches to contrasting MAFLD.
In the Cis-Element CACCC-box a Master Regulatory Element during Cardiovascular Disease? A Bioinformatics Approach from the Perspective of the Kruppel-like Family of Transcription Factors
Authors: Garcia-Loredo Juan Andres , Santoyo-Suarez Michelle G. , Rodríguez-Nuñez Oscar , Benitez Chao Diego Francisco , Garza-Treviño Elsa N. , Zapata-Morín Patricio Adrián , Padilla-Rivas Gerardo R. , Islas Jose Francisco
Published: March 2024

The CACCC-box motif emerges as a pivotal cis-regulatory element implicated in diverse developmental processes and diseases, particularly cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This study centers on the intricate interplay between the CACCC-box and its binding proteins such as: the Krüppel-like family (KLF) of transcription factors as primary effectors in the context of CVDs. Our analysis was through a bioinformatics approach, which reveal significant transcriptional activity among KLF subgroup 2, exhibiting the highest number of interactions focusing on the established roles: pluripotency, cancer, and cardiovascular development and diseases. Our analysis reveals KLF's interactions with GATA4, MEF2C, NKX2.5 and other ~ 90 potential genes that participate in the regulation of the hypertrophic environment (or CVD's Environment). Also, the GO analysis showed genes containing the motif CACCC were enriched for multiple CVD’s, in combination with STRING analysis these results pointed to a link between KLFs and these diseases. The analysis further identifies other potential CACCC-box binding factors, such as SP family members, WT1, VEZF1, and -SALL4, which are implicated in cardiac contraction, remodeling, and inflammation processes.
The Optimal Concentrations of Ethanolic-Extracted Propolis for a Reduction of Nosema ceranae Infection in Western Honey Bees, Apis mellifera
Authors: Naree Sanchai , Ellis James D. , Suwannapong Guntima
Published: March 2024

Ethanolic extracts of propolis collected from Apis mellifera hives have been shown to reduce Nosema ceranae infection in honey bee workers. This study aimed to determine the propolis concentration that optimizes the control of N. ceranae infection in honey bee workers. Newly emerged worker bees were individually fed 2 μL of 50% sucrose solution (w/v) containing 105 N. ceranae spores per bee, and treated with 0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% ethanolic extracted propolis in 50% sucrose solution (v/v). The treated bees were maintained in cages at 34 ± 2˚C and 55 ± 5% RH throughout the study. The number of dead bees was counted and removed from the cages daily for 30 days to generate survival curves. The number of N. ceranae spores per bee (infectivity) was quantified using a hemocytometer, and the number of infected bees per hundred bees (infection rate) was determined. The survival rates of N. ceranae infected bees fed 25%, 50%, and 75% propolis (NP1, NP2, NP3, respectively) were significantly higher than those of infected bees not fed propolis (NO). Furthermore, the infectivity and infection rates of NP2 and NP3 groups were significantly lower than those of the NO group. The infectivity and infection rates of the NP1 group were not different than those of the NO group. Our data suggest that 50% and 75% propolis extracts are appropriate concentrations for treating N. ceranae infection in honey bees. Ethanolic extracted propolis can be an alternative treatment for N. ceranae infection in Western honey bees.
Effects of Recombinant α1-Microglobulin on Early Proteomic Response in Risk Organs after Exposure to 177Lu-Octreotate
Authors: Ytterbrink Charlotte , Shubbar Emman , Parris Toshima Z , Langen Britta , Druid Malin , Schüler Emil , Strand Sven Erik , Åkerström Bo , Gram Magnus , Helou Khalil , Forssell-Aronsson Eva
Published: March 2024

Recombinant α1-microglobulin (A1M) is proposed as protector during 177Lu-octreotate treatment of neuroendocrine tumors, which is currently limited by bone marrow and renal toxicity. Co-administration of 177Lu-octreotate and A1M could result in a more effective treatment by protecting healthy tissue, but, the radioprotecting action of A1M is not fully understood. The aim of this study was to examine the proteomic response of kidneys and bone marrow early after 177Lu-octreotate and/or A1M administration. Mice were injected with 177Lu-octreotate and/or A1M, while control mice received saline or A1M vehicle solution. Bone marrow, kidney medulla, and kidney cortex were sampled after 24 hours or 7 days. Differential protein expression was analyzed with tandem mass spectrometry. Dosimetric estimation was based on 177Lu activity in kidney. PHLDA3 was the most prominent radiation responsive protein in kidney tissue. In general, no statistically significant difference in expression of radiation-related proteins was observed between the irradiated groups. Most canonical pathways were identified in bone marrow from the 177Lu-octreotate+A1M group. Altogether, tissue-dependent proteomic response followed exposure to 177Lu-octreotate alone or together with A1M. Combining 177Lu-octreotate with A1M did not inhibit the radiation induced protein expression early after exposure, and late effects should be further studied.
Sulfur and Peroxide Vulcanization of Rubber Compounds Based on SBR, EPDM and Their Combinations
Authors: Kruželák Ján , Kvasničáková Andrea , Džuganová Michaela , Chodak Ivan , Hudec Ivan
Published: March 2024

Rubber compounds based on styrene-butadiene rubber, ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer rubber and the combinations of both rubbers were cured with different sulfur and peroxide curing systems. In sulfur curing systems, two type of accelerators, namely N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazole sulfenamide, tetramethylthiuram disulfide and combinations of both accelerators were used. In peroxide curing systems, dicumyl peroxide, and combination of dicumyl peroxide with zinc diacrylate or zinc dimethacrylate, respectively were applied. The work was focused on investigation of the curing system composition as well as type of the rubber or rubbers combinations on curing process, cross-link density and physical-mechanical properties of vulcanizates. The dynamic-mechanical properties on the selected vulcanizates were examined, too. The result revealed correlation between the cross-link density and physical-mechanical properties. Similarly, there was recorded certain correlation between cross-linking degree and glass transition temperature. The tensile strength of vulcanizates based on rubbers combinations was higher when compared to that based on pure rubbers, which points out the fact that by rubbers combination, not only the features of both elastomers can be combined, but also improved tensile characteristics can be achieved. When compared to vulcanizates cured with dicumyl peroxide, materials cured with sulfur system exhibited higher tensile strength. By application of co-agents in peroxide vulcanization, the tensile strength overcame the tensile behavior of sulfur cured vulcanizates.
COVID-19 Pandemic Modulates the Environmental Contamination Level with Enteric Bacteria from WWTPs
Authors: Banciu Alina Roxana , Pascu Luoana Florentina , Stoica Catalina , Gheorghe Stefania , Lucaciu Irina , Feodorov Laura , Nita-Lazar Mihai
Published: March 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic was a challenge for the whole world and it had major second-ary effects on the health of the population and the environment. The viral infection caused, in many situations, secondary bacterial infections, especially enteric infections by destabilizing the balance of the gastrointestinal microbiota. The large-scale use of antibiotics and biocides both for curative and preventive purposes has determined an increase in bacterial resistance and at the same time the possibility of the multiplica-tion of pathogenic microorganisms and their transfer in natural environments. Wastewater is the main vector of faecal microorganisms that favour their dissemina-tion in natural aquatic ecosystems. The present paper represents a sub-study of the RADAR project with the aim of demonstrating the effect of the Covid-19 pandemic on the microbiological quality of wastewater from sewage treatment plants in Romania and its impact on receiving rivers. In order to highlight different and important areas of Romania, 3 cities from the east, center and west were selected for the evaluation of microbiological quality of influent and effluent sewage in WWTPs between ante-Covid-19 and the peak period of the Covid-19 pandemic, when the Covid-19 pandemic had a direct consequence on WWTPs processes. Our study showed the high-er contamination with fecal bacteria based on higher Covid-19 incidence. The in-creased usage of pharmaceutical compounds, at their turn, increased the number of resistant bacteria reaching the environment via WWTP effluents.
Population Structure and Genetic Diversity of Ajuga Arabica in Saudi Arabia: A Comparative Analysis of DNA and Gene Sequences
Authors: Odah Mohammad
Published: March 2024

Ajuga arabica is an essential medicinal plant found naturally in Saudi Arabia, recognized for its therapeutic characteristics. Nevertheless, research on the genetic diversity and population arrangement of this species in Saudi Arabia is deficient. In this study, we conducted a comparative examination of DNA and gene sequences to evaluate the genetic diversity and population configuration of Ajuga arabica in Saudi Arabia. Our findings demonstrate that there are high levels of genetic diversity within populations, but low levels of genetic differentiation among populations. Moreover, we discovered proof of gene flow among populations, suggesting that there are no significant genetic barriers to gene flow. Our results offer valuable insights into the genetic diversity and population structure of Ajuga arabica in Saudi Arabia, which can support conservation efforts and promote the sustainable use of this valuable medicinal plant.
TGFβ Producing Regulatory T Cells Related Tolerable Immunities and Their Relations to Scleroderma and End Organ Failures Including Heart Failure, Liver Cirrhosis, Uremia, and Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Hu Wan-Chung
Published: March 2024

Regulatory T cells are key immune cells to initiate tolerable immune responses. TGFβ is the key cytokine of regulatory T cells. TGFβ is also the master cytokine to stimulate tissue fibrosis. Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease related to overt organ fibrosis. Thus, systemic sclerosis is a disease related to regulatory T cell over-representation. Besides, many end stage organ failures including heart failure, liver cirrhosis, uremia, and pulmonary fibrosis also related to tissue fibrosis. Thus, TGFβ producing regulatory T cells are also involved in the pathogenesis of these end stage organ failure. Once we know the significance of TGFβ and it induced tolerable immune reactions in the pathophysiology of end organ failure, we can develop better prevention or therapeutic strategies to combat these detrimental disorders.
Enhancing Inclusivity: A Holistic Approach to Psychomotor Development and Adapted Football Programs for Children with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Ștefănică Valentina , Mercea Ionuț Traian , Ursu Vasile Emil , Gorban Corneliu Florin , Dragoș Gheorghe Cristian , Mihaiu Costinel , Groza Gina Gogean
Published: March 2024

This study examines the effectiveness of a comprehensive psychomotor development program combined with adapted football training for adolescents diagnosed with intellectual disabilities in Romania. Twelve participants, with a mean age of 17.42 years underwent a carefully designed intervention program spanning 36 weeks. The program aimed to enhance fundamental movement skills, integrate these skills into specialized football training, and culminate in a Unified 7-a-side Football Match. Results indicate significant improvements in psychomotor skills, including static and dynamic balance, pulse processing speed, and identified stimuli. Moreover, the intervention positively impacted social interaction among participants. Statistical analysis, employing Pearson Correlation Analysis and Paired Samples t-Test (One-Sample), compared assessments. Results revealed significant differences between pre- and post-intervention measurements, providing robust evidence of the program's efficacy. The positive correlations between physical parameters and social interaction highlight the interconnectedness between physical fitness and social engagement. Our findings suggest that improvements in physical abilities may contribute to increased social interaction among children with intellectual disabilities, underscoring the holistic nature of our intervention, which addresses multiple dimensions of development simultaneously. The findings underscore the holistic benefits of integrating psychomotor development and adapted football programs for adolescents with intellectual disabilities, emphasizing the importance of promoting inclusive physical activities for their overall well-being.
Impact of a Rounding Checklist Implementation in the Trauma Intensive Care Unit on Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Seo Dong-min , Heo Inhae , Moon Jonghwan , Kwon Junsik , Huh Yo , Kang Byung Hee , Song Seoyoung , Kim Sora , Jung Kyoungwon
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of an intensive care unit (ICU) round checklist, FAST HUGS BID (Feeding, Analgesia, Sedation, Thromboembolic prophylaxis, Head-of-bed elevation, Ulcer prophylaxis, Glycemic control, Spontaneous breathing trial, Bowel regimen, Indwelling catheter removal, and De-escalation of antibiotics) in improving clinical outcomes for patients with severe trauma. Patients admitted to our trauma ICU between 2016 and 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. We divided the participants into two groups: before (before-FD, 2016-2017) and after (after-FD, 2019-2020) the checklist's implementation. We compared patient characteristics and clinical outcomes, including ICU and hospital length of stay (LOS) and in-hospital mortality. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan–Meier curves and multivariable logistic regression models, and multiple linear regression analysis was used to identify independent factors associated with ICU and hospital LOS. Compared with the before-FD group, the after-FD group had significantly lower in-hospital mortality and complication rates, shorter ICU and hospital LOS, and reduced duration of mechanical ventilation. revealed that the checklist's implementation was a significant independent factor in reducing ICU and hospital LOS and in-hospital mortality. In this before/after study, we observed that the FAST HUGS BID checklist implementation was associated with decreased ICU and hospital LOS and in-hospital mortality.
Does Corporate Social Responsibility Dimensions Effects on Employees’ Satisfaction and Retention for Sustainability
Authors: Malik Azam
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) dimensions and employees' satisfaction and retention for sustainability in banks. Carroll (1991) proposed a theoretical approach that consists of four components (economic, legal, ethical, and philanthropic) to analyze CSR activities and their effects on employee’s satisfaction and retention in the company. Simple random sampling was used to get the information from 221 participants. The entire form of the dataset is utilized to execute regression and correlation analysis using SPSS. In order to find out the relationship between economic, legal, ethical, and philanthropic factors and employee's satisfaction and retention, regression beta coefficient and correlation coefficients were used to analyze. This study also examines the relationship between job satisfaction and intentions to retain with an organization. The findings demonstrate that the CSR aspects of ethical and philanthropic have a considerable and favorable influence on employee's satisfaction. The outcome also demonstrates a good and prominent influence of legal CSR on the satisfaction of employee's to retain with the firm. Moreover, this study demonstrates that economic aspect of CSR has no significant impact on employee's retention and satisfaction. Correlation analysis depicts that economic CSR is positively and significantly connected with employee's retention and satisfaction. This research came to the conclusion that enhancing employees view regarding CSR activities such as economic, legal, ethical, and philanthropic will increase employee's satisfaction. Therefore, executives and managers in the banks should take steps to influence how employees see CSR areas in order to raise employee's satisfaction and retention in the banks for sustainability.
Finite Element Analysis of the Upsurge of Bifurcation during the Thinning Process of Large Semiconductor Wafers
Authors: Vinciguerra Vincenzo , Malgioglio Giuseppe Luigi , Renna Marco
Published: March 2024

During the thinning process, in the semiconductor industry, residual stress from thin films can cause severe warpage in wafers, which can compromise their processability and packaging. This warpage can lead to bifurcation or buckling, making it important to understand this phenomenon for the manufacturing of large semiconductor wafers. We conducted a finite element analysis of the thinning process using ANSYS mechanical enterprise 2023/R2 to investigate the asymmetric curvatures resulting from bifurcation in a standard 300 mm Si (001) wafer. We induced an asymmetry in the system by applying a slight force on a point of the circumferential region perpendicularly to the substrate. We also simulated the compressive stress from the damaged layer formed during the thinning process and considered its influence on warpage and bifurcation in both linear and non-linear cases. We also included the influence of Earth's gravity induced deflection (GID) and investigated the influence of the compressive stress damaged layer on the grinding process of the whole wafer by adding a metal front layer to the ground back damaged wafer.
Differential Anti-Fibrotic and Remodeling Responses of Human Dermal Fibroblasts to Artemisia sp., artemisinin, and its Derivatives
Authors: Weathers Pamela J , Towler Melissa Jean , Kiani Bushra Hafeez , Dolivo David , Dominko Tanja
Published: March 2024

Fibrosis is a ubiquitous pathology, and prior studies have indicated that various artemisinin (ART) derivatives (including artesunate (AS), artemether (AM), and dihydroartemisinin (DHA)) can reduce fibrosis in vitro and in vivo. The medicinal plant, Artemisia annua L., is the natural source of ART and is widely used, especially in underdeveloped countries, to treat a variety of diseases including malaria, while A. afra contains no ART but is also antimalarial. Using human dermal fibroblasts (CRL-2097), we compared the effects of A. annua and A. afra tea infusions, ART, AS, AM, DHA, and a liver metabolite of ART, deoxyART (dART), on fibroblast viability and expression of key fibrotic marker genes after 1 and 4 days of treatment. AS, DHA, and Artemisia tea significantly reduced fibroblast viability at 1 and 4 d post-treatment. After 4 d post treatment, AS, DHA, and A. afra tea downregulated ACTA2, and upregulated MMP3, with other genes either being unaffected or differentially affected. ART and AM had no significant effect on either fibroblast viability or fibrotic gene expression. Although A. annua contains ART, it had a significantly greater anti-fibrotic effect than ART alone. Immunofluorescent staining for smooth muscle α-actin (α-SMA) correlated well with transcriptional responses of drug-treated fibroblasts. Together, proliferation, qPCR, and immunofluorescence results show that treatment with ART, AS, DHA, and the two Artemisia teas yield differing responses, including those related to fibrosis, in human dermal fibroblasts.
Toxic Effects of Rare Earth Elements on Human Health
Authors: Wang Wenyu , Yang Yanfang , Wang Donglei , Huang Lihua
Published: March 2024

Rare earth elements (REEs) are a type of new material resources, which have attracted signiﬁcant attention in recent years. REEs have emerged as essential metals in modern-day technology due to their unique functions. Long-term large-scale mining and utilization of rare earths have caused serious environmental pollution and constitutes a global health issue, which raised concerns about human health safety. However, the toxicity profile of suspended particulate matter of REEs in the environment interacts with the human body in remain largely unknown. Studies have shown that REEs can enter the human body through a variety of pathways, leading to a variety of organ and system dysfunctions through changes in genetics, epigenetics, and signaling pathways. Through an extensive literature search and critical analysis, we provide a comprehensive overview of the available evidence, identify knowledge gaps, and make recommendations for future research directions.
Symmetry Transformations in Cosmological and Black Hole Analytical Solutions
Authors: León Edgar Alejandro , Sandoval-Rodríguez Andrés
Published: March 2024

We analyze the transformation of a very broad class of metrics that can be put in terms of static coordinates. Starting from a general ansatz, we obtain a relation for the parameters in which one can impose further symmetries, or restrictions. One of the simplest restrictions leads to FLRW cases, while transforming from the initial static to other static-type coordinates can lead to near horizon coordinates, Wheeler-Regge, isotropic coordinates, among others. As less restrictive cases, we show an indirect route for obtaining Kruskal-Szekeres within this approach, as well as Lema\^{\i}tre coordinates. We use Schwarzschild spacetime as prototype for testing the procedure in individual cases. However, application to other spacetimes, such as de-Sitter, Reissner-Nordstr\"{o}m or Schwarzschild de Sitter, can be readily generalized.
Directional Vibro-Tactile Hazard Warnings for Drivers with Vision Impairments
Authors: Xu Jing , Kölsch Felix M. , Dyszak Georg N. , Lehsing Christian , Bowers Alex R.
Published: March 2024

Vision impairment may delay responses to hazards when driving. In a proof-of-concept driving simulator study, we evaluated a hazard warning device designed for vision impaired drivers. Three groups participated: 11 persons with central vision loss (CVL; median age 60 years), 12 with homonymous field loss (HFL; 52 years) and 11 with normal vision (NV; 60 years). CVL is characterised by impaired visual acuity and contrast sensitivity while HFL is a loss of vision in the same half of the visual field (blind side) in both eyes. Participants completed drives with and without the device which gave a directional vibro-tactile warning for an approaching pedestrian hazard when collision risk exceeded a pre-defined threshold. Warnings significantly (p< 0.001) reduced brake response times for CVL (∆= 0.54s) and HFL (∆= 0.30s), but not NV participants. For HFL participants, the reduction was greater (p = 0.02) for hazards on the blind (∆= 0.57s) than seeing side (∆= 0.10s). The warnings significantly reduced collision rates for CVL participants from 11 to 0% (all hazards) and for HFL participants from 30 to 1.7% (blind side hazards). Thus, hazard warnings may be beneficial in improving safety of vision impaired drivers; further research is warranted.
The Effects of Depression and Self-esteem on Attitudes toward Drugs in College Students
Authors: Song Yeoungsuk , Kim Dohee , Kim Yujin , Kim Yubin , Lee Eunjin , Lee Yoonmi
Published: March 2024

Objectives: This study aimed to identify depression, self-esteem, and attitude toward drugs in college students and examine the factors affecting attitude toward drugs.Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive design was used. A total of 267 college students across the country in Korea were analyzed. Data collection was conducted from online survey using DASS-21, self-esteem scale, and attitude toward drugs scale to quantify participants’ responses.Results: Our results revealed that self-esteem (β= 0.15, p= 0.011) and curiosity about drug (β= -0.20, p= 0.003) significantly influenced attitude toward drugs in college students, and explained 8% of attitude toward drugs in multiple regression analysis. However, depression had no significant effect on attitudes toward drugs.Conclusions: Developing and implementing appropriate self-esteem and curiosity coping programs are necessary to establish a critical attitude toward drugs among college students.
Evaluating the Predictive Efficiency of Obesity-related Factors for Type 2 Diabetes: A Panel Study Using KoGES Data
Authors: Kim Young-Joo , Yeom Hyun-E
Published: March 2024

Objectives: Obesity is a global health concern, widely recognized for its association with the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the relative predictive efficacy of obesity-related indicators, including BMI, body fat percentage, and waist-to-hip ratio, in predicting the incidence of type 2 diabetes in Korean middle-aged to older adults.Methods: Using twelve years of panel data derived from the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study, we conducted a logit regression analysis to evaluate the predictive efficiency of three obesity-related indicators while controlling for individual characteristics and behavioral risk factors.Results: For initial screening, we examined the variation of three obesity indexes explained by age and male indicators. Among the three obesity indexes, about 11.3% to 49% of variations in body fat percentage and waist-to-hip ratio were explained away by age and male gender, but these two factors hardly explained BMI variation. We showed that all three obesity-related indicators were significant predictors of type 2 diabetes without other controls in the model. However, once controlling for socioeconomic and behavioral factors likely associated with health, we showed that only BMI remained a significant predictor of type 2 diabetes. We further showed that older age, male gender, smoking, and sleep duration were also significant predictors of type 2 diabetes, other than BMI.Conclusions: Our findings underscore the relatively superior predictive efficacy of BMI beyond the other obesity indicators for type 2 diabetes risk. The results indicate that a comprehensive assessment, combined with secure BMI monitoring, is imperative for preventing and early detecting type 2 diabetes, especially in populations with multiple risk factors.
Effect of an Oral Care Program with Honey on Chemotherapy-related Mucositis among Cancer Patients
Authors: Song Bo Ram , Park Hye-Ja
Published: March 2024

Objectives: This study examined the effect of an oral care program with honey on chemotherapy-related mucositis among cancer patients.Methods: In this randomized quasi-experimental study, 34 participants were assigned to either a honey group (n = 17, swish-hold-swallow with acacia honey) or a saline control group (n = 17, mouthwashes with normal saline). The 14-day oral care program comprised a 20-30 minute’s single education session and 1 minute‘s swishing with acacia honey or 3 minutes’ mouthwashes with normal saline solution for 4 times/day (after three meals and before bed time). Mucositis score was assessed at the time of enrollment, day 7, and day 14 using the Oral Assessment Guide. Data were analyzed with repeated measures of ANCOVA and repeated measures of ANOVA with Bonferroni’s correction.Results: There was no significant interaction between groups and follow-up times in the mucositis scores. Within the honey group, there was a significant increment in the mucositis score at day 7 (t = 6.42, p< 0.001) and a significant decrement at day 14 (t = 11.02, p< 0.001). In the saline group, there was a significant increment in the mucositis score at day 7 (t = 9.62, p< 0.001) and a significant decrement at day 14 (t = -10.03, p< 0.001).Conclusions: A supportive oral care program using honey or saline may be suggested to ameliorate the chemotherapy related mucositis as a safe, feasible, and appropriate care for cancer patients.
Mitigating Downhole Calcite and Barite Deposition in the Montney: A Successful Scale Squeeze Program
Authors: Schmid J. , Aiken B. , El Yaakobi F. , Colmenares L.
Published: March 2024

This technical paper addresses the challenges faced by Montney producers in northwestern Alberta and northeastern British Columbia due to downhole calcite and barite deposition. These scales lead to various issues such as production declines, pressure increases, decreased pump efficiency, and equipment failures. Additionally, the presence of Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORMs) associated with barite poses health concerns and disposal expenses. Continuously applied scale inhibitors are unable to reach the pay zone in the horizontal section, which has multiple fractures in a low-porosity and low-permeability formation.

In response to these challenges, a comprehensive database of water analyses for the Montney was used to understand the variability in scaling ions. Scale modeling under bottomhole and topside conditions was conducted to gain insights into scaling dynamics. Laboratory performance of a range of system-compatible scale inhibitors was evaluated using dynamic scale loop and particle size analysis through focused beam reflectance measurement (FBRM) tests.

The study focused on candidate wells with pump lifespans of less than three months, and scale squeezes were performed on both beam pump and gas lift wells. Drawing upon best practices from scale squeezes in the Saskatchewan, Montana, and North Dakota Bakken Formation, a scale squeeze program was developed. Monitoring during the program involved comparative water analyses, scale inhibitor residuals, and NORM monitoring.

Results showed that the scale squeezes led to increased pump lifespans for beam-pumped wells, elimination of NORM in surface equipment, reduced acid cleanouts, and minimized downtime. The success of the scale squeeze program proved the feasibility of applying this approach in the Montney and offered support for its extension to other shale plays across Western Canada and worldwide.