bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Molecular Prevalence of MecA and MecC Genеs in Coagulasе-Positive Staphylococci Isolated From Dogs with Dermatitis and Otitis in Belgrade, Serbia: A One Year Study
Authors: Prošić Isidora , Milčić-Matić Natalija , Milić Nenad , Radalj Andrea , Aksentijević Ksenija , Ilić Milica , Nišavić Jakov , Radojičić Marina , Gajdov Vladimir , Krnjaić Dejan 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The escalating global concern of antimicrobial resistance in human and veterinary medicine is exacerbated by the inappropriate prescription of antibiotics for bacterial infections in companion animals. This study aimed to determine the distribution of coagulase-positive staphylococci causing clinical skin and ear infections in dogs and to determine methicillin-resistant isolates. A total of 78 staphylococcal strains were isolated from clinical samples taken from patients at the Dermatology Clinic at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine in Belgrade, Serbia. Multiplex PCR was used for species-specific identification, and mecA and mecC genes were used to determine methicillin resistance, in addition to phenotypic determination, MIC values and detection of PBP2a. Out of the 78 samples analyzed, 65.8% were identified as Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, 22.4% as S. aureus, 7.9% as S. coagulans, and 3.9% as S. intermedius. Four S. aureus isolates exhibited methicillin resistance confirmed by cefoxitin disk diffusion, while five were confirmed with MIC testing and latex agglutination. MecA gene was detected in 29.4% of S. aureus and 30% of S. pseudintermedius isolates. These isolates were classified as methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and methicillin-resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP), respectively. No isolates carried the mecC gene. This study provides insights into the prevalence of CoPS species and methicillin resistance in isolates from dogs. Continued surveillance is essential to monitor and understand the emergence and dissemination of antimicrobial resistance in veterinary medicine and the results of this study accent the need for establishment of a continuous antimicrobial resistance surveillance program in the Republic of Serbia.
Reliability of Molecular Tests in Diagnosing Ovine Brucellosis Caused by Brucella Ovis
Authors: Zelenović Mladen , Marinković Darko , Stević Nataša , Stanojević Slavoljub , Aničić Milan , Milićević Vesna , Valčić Olivera , Radojičić Sonja 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Brucella ovis infects sheep and causes a clinical or subclinical disease characterized by genital lesions and reduced fertility in rams, placentitis and abortions in ewes, and increased perinatal mortality in lambs. As part of this study, analyses were conducted on a sheep farm near Belgrade (Serbia). Of the serological tests, indirect ELISA was performed. A total of 94 blood sera were analyzed, 33 from rams and 61 from ewes. The results showed 23 (69.7%) positive findings in rams and 2 (3.3%) positive findings in ewes, with an overall prevalence of 25.4% bounded by a 95% confidence interval. Bruce-ladder multiplex PCR and Real time PCR were performed on 19 serologically positive rams and two serologically positive ewes. The results indicate a slightly higher sensitivity of Real time PCR compared to conventional PCR in diagnosing B. ovis from the reproductive tissues of rams. However, the differences in sensitivity between different nucleic acid extraction protocols were not significant. Most rams showed a positive PCR result in only one sample of reproductive tissue, suggesting the recommendation to take multiple samples from each animal. Further research is needed to bring the sensitivity of molecular tests in diagnosing ram epididymitis closer to the sensitivity of serological tests.
First Case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 in Montenegro
Authors: Adzic Bojan , Goletic Sejla , Pejoviс Nikola , Vizi Andrej , Yolshin Nikita 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is a highly infectious viral disease that affects birds, including wild water birds and poultry. The emergence and spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strains, such as H5N1, have raised concerns due to their potential to cause severe outbreaks and cross the species barrier, leading to human infections and global public health emergencies. In this study, we report the first case of HPAI H5N1 detection in Montenegro. Twenty-six carcasses of dalmatian pelicans were found in Skadar Lake, Montenegro, and the H5N1 subtype was confirmed through molecular testing in the samples from pelicans. The whole influenza genome was sequenced and belonging to clade 2.3.4.4b was determined.
Structural and Optical Properties of Aluminium Nitride Thin Films Fabricated Using Pulsed Laser Deposition and DC Magnetron Sputtering on Various Substrates
Authors: Virt Ihor , Potera Piotr , Wisz Grzegorz , Dziedzic Andrzej , Cieniek Bogumił , Lopatynskyi Ivan , Frugynskyi Marian 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Aluminium nitride thin films were fabricated using pulsed laser deposition and DC magnetron sputtering. Different technological parameters and the effects of different substrates on the optical and structural parameters of AlN samples were studied. An X-ray diffraction study was performed for the layer deposited on the Si3N4 substrate. A high-energy electron diffraction study was also carried out for the layer deposited on a KCl substrate. Transmission spectra of layers on quartz, sapphire, and glass substrates were obtained. An evaluation of the optical band gap of the obtained layers was carried out (Eg
form 3.81 to 5.81 eV) and the refractive index was calculated (2.58). The relative density of the film (N1TN-AlN sample) is 1.26 and was calculated using the Lorentz-Lorentz relationship. Layers of aluminium nitride show an amorphous character with a polycrystalline region. It was shown that the properties of AlN films strongly depend on the method, growth conditions, and substrate used.
Effect of Cement Dosing Without Additions (CPA) on High-Performance and Ordinary Concrete Based Glass Powder as Fine Partial Cement Replacement - A Comparative Study
Authors: Aissat-Arab Bahia , Mehaddene Rachid 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The main objective of this paper research is a comparative study on the effect of the glass powder (GP) substitute from collected and recycled glass waste, as a fine partial cement replacement on the mechanical performance and durability of high performance concrete (HPC) and ordinary concrete (OC). For this two cement dosing were used of 400 kg/m3 to formulate OC and 450 kg/m3 to formulate HPC, and GP as considered binder like cement and not as fine addition, hence binder represent the sum of cement with GP (L=C+GP) with which will be made our two concretes formulation. Two ratios were used for the Water/Binder (W/B), the first W/B=0.35 for the HPC and the second W/B=0.5 for the OC, this ration is very important to fix the concentration of superplasticizer. A percentage of 10% and 20% substitution of cement CPA without additions noted CEM I 52.5 by the glass powder with fineness of 3600 cm 2/g are used. The evaluation of the compressive strength was followed from 7 to 365 days in order to study the behavior of the GP at different ages affected by the cement dosing and the ratio W/B compared to the reference concrete without GP for the two concretes HPC and OC. At 28 days the strengths of concretes with GP is affected by the replacement of a quantity of cement since the two reference concretes were superior but beyond this age an inverse behavior is noticed such that results obtained at age of 365 days seem to be advantageous in terms of savings in the quantity of cement used by interpreting the compressive strength, and the decrease in quantity of water in the mixtures offers a remarkable difference between the two concretes studied by using 20 % of GP as replacement of cement.
Mechanical Flexibility and Electrical Reliability of ZnO-Al Thin Films on Polymer Substrates Under Different External Deformation
Authors: Mohammed Dilveen W. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO) films have emerged as promising transparent electrodes for various optoelectronic applications due to their superior transparency, electrical conductivity, and cost-effectiveness compared to indium tin oxide (ITO). Despite their widespread use, investigations into the electromechanical properties of AZO films, especially under various mechanical deformations, remain limited. This study employs RF magnetron sputtering to deposit AZO films on polyethylene naphthalate (PEN) substrates and explores their mechanical behavior through uniaxial tensile fragmentation and bending tests, coupled with in-situ optical microscopy. Changes in electrical resistance of AZO films were monitored in situ during deformation. Fatigue behavior was examined to further understand mechanical failure, and SEM was used for surface characterization. A critical strain of about 3.1 percent was detected during uniaxial tensile testing, marking the onset of cracks in AZO-coated PEN. In contrast to thicker films, thinner films demonstrated improved stretchability beyond the initiation of crack onset strain. Tension and compression bending tests revealed that the material has excellent bendability, as shown by its critical radii of 5.4 mm and 3.9 mm, respectively. The bending reliability of AZO films under compression was found to be superior than that under tension.
Bending fatigue experiments demonstrated that AZO films could withstand cyclic stress without experiencing no ticeable cracks after 100 cycles and with very minor resistance change. This study contributes to the creation of more reliable and optimized flexible optoelectronic devices by giving substantial quantitative data on the performance of AZO films when exposed to mechanical stress.
Application of Regression Models on the Prediction of Corrosion Degradation of a Crude Oil Distillation Unit
Authors: Varbai Balázs , Wéber Richárd , Farkas Balázs , Danyi Péter , Krójer Antal , Locskai Roland , Bohács György , Hős Csaba 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The crude distillation unit is the most critical elements in the refining process. Moreover, most of the equipment in the distillation unit are made of general carbon steels. Data analysis models, machine learning techniques can predict corrosion degradation rates. We used Pearson’s correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression, to predict the impact of process parameters. Altogether, we have analysed 84 channels of technological parameters, and 22 different types of crude oils. Among the corrosion agents, the chloride content strongly affected the weight loss of coupons, where the highest coefficient was 0.68. The most influential parameter is found to be the pH value. Thus, an estimation method of the pH value is set up to predict the corrosion degradation rate. The regression correlation for estimating the pH value is 0.53 if the corrosion agents are not used, which can be improved to 0.76 if the corrosion agents are also used in the regression analysis.
Effect of the Number of Shells on Selected Mechanical Properties of Parts Manufactured by FDM/FFF Technology
Authors: Szot Wiktor , Rudnik Mateusz 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The technological parameters of 3D printing have an influence on the mechanical properties of the manufactured components. The purpose of the article was to study the comparative influence of the technological parameter of the number of shells variable in two stages (2 and 10) on selected mechanical properties. The maximum tensile stress for the number of shells 10 was 39.80 MPa, which is higher compared to the number of shells 2: 30.98 MPa. In the case of the maximum bending stress for the number of shells 10, an average value of 61.02 MPa was obtained, which is higher compared to the number of shells of 2: 37.46 MPa. Furthermore strong fit of the Kelvin-Voight model was obtained, as confirmed by the values of the Cℎi
2: 0.0001 and R
2: 0.997 coefficients.
The Influence of Mineral Additives and Sands on the Performance of Self-Compacting Sand Concretes
Authors: Djoual Belkacem , Kettab Ratiba Mitiche , Ghrieb Abderrahmane , Bouziani Tayeb , Zaitri Rebih 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The chosen plan for our case study is a network mixture design consisting of 21 mixtures. The application of this method has proven to be immensely useful in studying the influence of composition parameters (composite design) and the utilization of various types of mineral additives (mixture design). The application of the Design of Experiments (DOE) method, based on a statistical approach, allowed for a better understanding of the effect of formulation parameters, including the proportion of alluvial sand (75%), dune sand (25%), the total amount of sand kept at constant percentages, the dosages of brick powder, limestone filler and ceramic powder (all varying from 0 %, 20 %, 40 %, 60 %, 80 %, and 100 %), while keeping the dosage of superplasticizer and the water/binder ratio constant. This approach helped to understand the interactions between these parameters and their impact on the process. Mathematical models relating the variations of these parameters to the workability and compressive strength of such concrete mixtures have been established. The results obtained show that the workability of SCSC (expressed by slump flow and V-funnel flow) improves with the increase in the dosage of limestone filler (FC), brick powder (PB), and ceramic powder (PC), with element having a different impact, be it alone or in a combination. Moreover, they all improved the behavior of SCSC in both the fresh and hardened states. The experiment shows that increasing the proportions of FC and PC in the mixture, whether linear, binary, or ternary, leads to a significant improvement in compressive strength. Furthermore, better strength is observed in the ternary mixture at 28 days, with a strength of 43 MPa, with the following proportions (FC 70%, PB 20%, PC 10%). Finally, the result at 180 days of 48 MPa confirms the following proportions (PC 60 %, FC 30 %, PB 10 %) The compliance of some SCSC compositions was tested according to the recommendations of the French Association of Civil Engineering.
Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome and its Components in Patients with Controlled Graves’ Disease
Authors: Stoynova M. , Lilova L. , Petrova D. , Yankova I. , Dimitrova I. , Shinkov A. , Kovatcheva R. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract

Aim:
Our aim was to assess the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components in patients with controlled Graves’ disease (GD).

Methods:
This was a cross-sectional study involving 95 consecutive patients with GD referred to our tertiary care inpatient clinical center meeting the following inclusion criteria: controlled hyperthyroidism, treatment with antithyroid drugs, untreated Graves’ orbitopathy (GO), if present. Patients’ anthropometric parameters were evaluated and laboratory tests were performed with measurement of fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, thyroid hormone and antibody levels. The presence of the MetS and its components as defined by the International Diabetes Federation from 2009 were evaluated.

Results:
In our patient cohort 82.1% were females, 17.9% were males, mean age 50.2 ± 13 years, with median duration of GD 16.5 months. The MetS was observed in 32.6% of our patients, obesity – in 34.7%, hyperglycemia in 38.9%, arterial hypertension – in 36.8%, low HDL-cholesterol – in 23.2% and hypertriglyceridemia – in 13.7%. There was not statistical difference neither between the prevalence of the MetS, nor between the prevalence of its individual components in female and male GD patients. The MetS was significantly more frequent in older patients, as well as abdominal obesity, hyperglycemia and arterial hypertension. There was not statistical difference in the frequency of the MetS and its components between GD patients with and without GO, except for waist circumference, which was significantly higher in patients with GO.

Conclusions:
The presence of the MetS and its components among GD patients are to great extent similar to those reported in the general population, which underlines the need for their screening and proper treatment in this subpopulation.
Seroprevalence of IgG Antibodies Against SARS-CoV-2 N Protein Among Vaccinated and Unvaccinated Subjects in Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Donia A. , Nawaz M. , Shahid M. F. , Shahid R. , Javed A. , Yaqub T. , Bokhari H. 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
The spread of SARS-CoV-2 represented a global health crisis. On May 5, 2023, the chief of the World Health Organization (WHO) officially announced the end of COVID-19 as a global health emergency. Serological assays can identify previously infected SARS-CoV-2 individuals, even if they did not go for testing while acutely ill. The current study sought to detect antibodies directed against the nucleocapsid of SARS-CoV-2 (IgG against the SARS-CoV-2 N protein) in both vaccinated and unvaccinated COVID-19 individuals. Of the 100 participants, 53 and 47 were vaccinated and unvaccinated, respectively. The vaccination status of the cohort based on gender data indicates that 41 (41%) of all participants were vaccinated males, whereas 12 (12%) were vaccinated females. We found that 42 (42%) were unvaccinated males and 5 (5%) were unvaccinated females. Of 53 vaccinated subjects, 42 and 11 participants were positive and negative for IgG against the SARS-CoV-2 N protein, respectively. Of 47 unvaccinated participants, 28 and 19 were positive and negative for IgG against the SARS-CoV-2 N protein, respectively. The average of S/P “Sample/Positive control” percentages, which correlate to levels of IgG against SARS-CoV-2 N protein, were significantly higher among the vaccinated patients (73.8%) as compared to non-vaccinated patients (57.1%), with p = 0.02. There was a downward trend in levels of IgG against the SARS-CoV-2 N protein with increasing age, except for the 60–69 age group.
Translation in Flux: Revisiting the Past, Envisioning the Future
Authors: Ito Kinji 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
Translation and translators are emerging as powerful catalysts for promoting vibrant cross-cultural interaction among individuals from different backgrounds. Commonly perceived as the process of converting content from one language to another, translation is a nuanced and multifaceted endeavor that transcends mere linguistic conversion. Translators act as adept mediators, deftly navigating the intricate web of diverse texts and cultures while shaping their uniquely insightful perspectives. This article explores the rich historical dimensions of translation, highlighting its deep connections to philosophical beliefs and socio-political dynamics. It also aims to enhance our understanding of the complex nature of this practice by dissecting various dichotomies in translation studies, including contrasting philosophical views of translation and divergent approaches to the art of translation. In today’s interconnected world, the role of the translator has become increasingly indispensable, underscoring that translation goes beyond mere words; it serves as a mirror that reflects the ever-evolving globalized landscape. To chart a path forward, we must recognize the importance of revisiting the past, drawing wisdom from history, and gaining valuable insights for the future.
A Comparative Study of LIQUID Metaphors in English and Romanian Economic Language
Authors: Greavu Arina 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This article discusses the economic terminology of English and Romanian from the perspective of Conceptual Metaphor Theory, focusing on the way in which the two languages employ lexical items from the semantic field of liquids in relation to the economy. The approach used here is both quantitative and qualitative. Thus, the study analyses the dictionary distribution in the two languages of words and phrases that fit the LIQUID metaphor of the economy, and tries to formulate statistical conclusions regarding the importance of this metaphor in shaping the vocabulary of the subject. The results of the quantitative analysis are illustrated with examples from economic publications, with an emphasis on those cases where English and Romanian do not share the same conceptual metaphors, and which could thus prove problematic for learners of Business English as well as for professionals working with the two languages. Metaphor researchers studying English and Romanian generally agree that English is more metaphorical in the way it discusses economic phenomena. However, dictionaries and newspaper articles may differ in the extent to which they follow this prediction, with the latter showing a higher density of metaphorical language than the former.
On the Efficiency and Efficacy of Machine-Assisted Literary Translation: A Case Study for English/Romanian and Romanian/English Machine-Assisted Translation
Authors: Tîrban Emilian 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
“If you translate long into the machine, the machine translates back into you,” is one of the issues the present article strives to establish and explore qualitatively. I intend to examine the effectiveness and efficiency of machine-assisted translations of significant literary works from a hermeneutical perspective. Essentially, I analyse the output of automated translation platforms such as Google Translate and compare them to human translation. This investigation is valuable in determining whether translators should exercise caution when utilizing translation platforms for culturally rich literary works. Additionally, the article scrutinizes the localisation, cultural, and grammatical coherence of Homer’s The Iliad translated from English to Romanian using the Google Translate platform. The human translations used are rendered into English and Romanian from Greek. As Homer’s Greek remains incomprehensible to the translation platform, we employ a secondary translation technique for a tertiary machine-assisted output. Nonetheless, this approach highlights the serious pitfalls of using translation platforms haphazardly in translation work. This analysis will show how awareness of the machine’s imperfect translation capabilities may, in turn, enhance the human translator’s awareness of what works while translating with the help of a translation application.
Translating Identities: How Cultural Choices Shape Character Perception in Genshin Impact
Authors: Mihu Catrina-Claudia 
Published: March 2024

Abstract
This article undertakes a comparative analysis of the English and Chinese voice-lines of specific characters in Genshin Impact – a well-known open world role-playing video game developed by Mihoyo Technology – and examines the cultural implications that might have led to varied translations. By closely scrutinizing linguistic adaptations and cultural nuances, the study aims to shed light on how these differences in translation significantly influence the perception of characters among their respective audiences globally. The research delves into the complex choices made by translators and their impact on character representation, addressing the discourse on the interplay between language and culture, and how these intersect with in-game narratives. In doing so, the article not only offers valuable insights into the intricacies of cross-cultural adaptation in regards to video game localization, but also contributes to a broad understanding of how linguistic choices actively shapes the audience’s perception when navigating the immersive world of Genshin Impact.