bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of virtual reality distraction on venipuncture pain in children in the emergency room
Authors: Gómez-Neva María Elizabeth ,   Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, Bogotá, Colombia., Briñez Ariza Karol Johanna , Ibañez Rodriguez Leidy Johana ,   Universidad de Ciencias Aplicadas y Ambientales UDCA, Bogotá, Colombia.,   Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, Bogotá, Colombia.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Virtual reality (VR) as a distraction strategy has been used in healthcare centers; however, the evidence is inconsistent in demonstrating VR's effect on pain control during venipuncture. Objective: To describe the effect of VR on pain during the venipuncture process in children and adolescents in a private institution in Bogotá. Materials and Methods: An unblinded, randomized, experimental study was conducted in the emergency room of a fourth-level care facility. The sample consisted of 46 children and adolescents between the ages of 7 and 14. Twenty-three were randomly assigned to the experimental group with a VR headset and 23 to the control group. The dependent variable ‘pain’ was measured before, during, and after venipuncture using the visual analog scale (VAS) of pain. Results: Perceived pain is different before and after the procedure; however, using the VR headset did not show any statistical or clinical differences during the venipuncture procedure. Discussion: Variables such as vital signs, venipuncture time, and follow-up were important in measuring symptoms such as pain at venipuncture. Conclusion: VR can be used by nurses; however, more research must be done to demonstrate its effect on pain control during venipuncture, considering a greater power of the study, type of pain, and variables such as family support and nurses’ time of experience.
Immune thrombocytopenic purpura following mRNA-SARS-CoV-2 vaccination: a case report
Authors: Lozada Ramos Heiler ,   Universidad de Santander, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas y de la Salud, Instituto de Investigación Masira, Bucaramanga, Colombia. Universidad Santiago de Cali, Escuela de Medicina, Cali, Colombia., Martínez-Vega Ruth Aralí , Torcoroma García Liliana ,   Universidad de Santander, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas y de la Salud, Instituto de Investigación Masira, Bucaramanga, Colombia.,   Universidad de Santander, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas y de la Salud, Instituto de Investigación Masira, Bucaramanga, Colombia.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Herein, it is presented a case report of a Colombian adult male patient, without any previous report of thrombocytopenia or hematological disorders, who developed a mild and chronic paucisymptomatic immune thrombocytopenic purpura, a rare complication following SARS-CoV-2 m-RNA. To the best of our knowledge, this represents the first documented case in Colombia of immune thrombocytopenic purpura associated with mRNA vaccines (BNT162b2 or mRNA-1273), with a comprehensive 2-year clinical follow-up. Case Description: The patient received the initial and second doses of the mRNA BNT162b2 vaccine in June 2021, the first booster dose in November 2021 (mRNA-1273), and the second booster dose (mRNA BNT162b2) in June 2022. Thrombocytopenia (<100 x109 platelets/L, which is the criterion to define immune thrombocytopenic purpura) was documented after the second vaccination dose and both boosters, and it improved after corticosteroid therapy. However, cycling thrombocytopenia persisted until the clinical follow-up in August 2023, with platelet count ranging from 57 to 191 x109 platelets/L (mean: 103 x109 platelets/L). Conclusion: Given that secondary immune thrombocytopenic purpura can occur following SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination, systematic research to identify risk factors associated with immune thrombocytopenic purpura due to COVID-19 immunization should be conducted.
Report on the All-Ukrainian Scientific and Practical Conference "Actual Issues of Modern Traumatology and Orthopedics", which took place on May 17, 2024 in the city of Zaporizhzhia
Authors: Golovakha Maxim
Published: July 2024

Report on the All-Ukrainian Scientific and Practical Conference "Actual Issues of Modern Traumatology and Orthopedics", which took place on May 17, 2024 in the city of Zaporizhzhia
BIOCHEMICAL INDICATORS OF MILITARY BLOOD ON THE ISCHEMIC AND DENERVATION PROCESS IN MUSCLES AFTER A MINE-EXPLOSIVE INJURYS
Authors: Magomedov Sadrudin , Polyachenko Yurii , Dolhopolov Oleksii , Kostrub Оlexandr , Litovka Iryna , Rohozynskyi Valentyn
Published: July 2024

The injuries received are accompanied by massive damage to the soft tissues of the limbs, main vessels and nerves, and the development of compartment syndrome. Violation of muscle function in the case of a limb injury can be both a consequence  of denervation — as a result of damage to peripheral nerves, and ischemia with subsequent necrosis and fibrosis — as a result of direct or indirect damage to muscles, «tenotomy syndrome» — in case of traumatic damage to tendons and muscles yams, with the simultaneous combination of denervation and ischemia. Markers for assessing the state of muscle tissue — levels of Na+, K+ and Ca++ electrolytes, indicators of kidney function (urea, creatinine); glucose and the products of its transformations — lactate (lacticacid) and pyruvate (pyruvic acid) and, finally, muscle enzymes, namely creatine kinase (CK) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Objective. To study the biochemical indicators of blood (activity of energy metabolism enzymes and electrolyte content) of military personnel with ischemic contracture and muscle denervation after a mine-explosive injury. Methods. The blood serum of 45 people, who were divided into IV groups, was analyzed. The average age of patients of the II group was 33.75 ± 3.46; III — 37 ± 3.66; IV — 35.86 ± 2.35. The results. The activity of LDH and CK and the content of electrolytes Na+, K+, Ca++ were determined in blood serum. Conclusions. LDH plays a key role in lactate metabolism and maintenance of energy balance in skeletal muscle. Its increased activity indicates the presence of hypoxia due to ischemic contracture of the limb and damage to peripheral nerves. KK enzyme protects cell membranes from damage. The tendency to decrease the activity of CC is a negative sign that reflects the initial process of destruction of the cell membranes of muscles damaged by a mine-explosive injury. The obtained results can be used to determine the severity of pathological processes in patients after traumatic damage to peripheral nerves and ischemic contracture, as well as when assessing the expediency of surgical intervention.
THE STUDY OF THE WORK OF THE MUSCLES RESPONSIBLE FOR THE FUNCTIONALITY OF THE HIP JOINT AFTER TOTAL HIP ARTHROPLASTY USING DIFFERENT SURGICAL APPROACHES
Authors: Bondarenko Stanislav , Sereda Dmytro , Karpinska Olena
Published: July 2024

Muscles that can be damaged during endoprosthesis are indicated. Objective. To study the features of muscle work to ensure walking function after hip arthroplasty depending on the surgical approach. Methods. The basis of the simulation is the basic OpenSim Gate2392 model. Six models were created that predicted the condition of the muscles of the lower limb in normal conditions, during coxarthrosis and after 6 and 12 months. after surgery with lateral and anterior approaches. The results. For lateral access in 6 months. after the operation, the adductor muscles responsible for stabilizing the pelvis in the single-support phase of the step and during the transfer of the foot do not work enough, while the hip flexor muscles (in the model, the rectus femoris muscle) take over the responsibility for the step, but with overvoltage. On the contrary, with the front approach, we observe a weakening of the flexor muscles, which leads to overstrain of the gluteal muscles and hip stabilizer muscles. After 12 months, the muscle strength normalizes for most of them to 90–95 % of the norm, a 2–3 times increase in the torque of the hip flexor muscles and hip stabilizer muscles is observed. Taking a normal step causes muscle strain. During the anterior approach, the foot is transferred during the phase, that is, when most of the muscles are involved. The rectus femoris muscle, which is the strongest of the muscles discussed in the paper, does the main work of moving the foot. In the case of possible damage to the rectus muscle during anterior access, even after a year there is a violation of its work — excessive overexertion and involvement of the reserves of other muscles. Conclusions. Mathematical modeling of the work of muscles that may be damaged during hip arthroplasty surgery, conditional muscle strength for 6 months. after the operation, they are not able to develop the necessary torque to take a normal step. For muscle strength, which in the model corresponded to 12 months,the muscles are able to perform a normal function regardless of surgical access, but their overstrain is observed.
A REVIEW OF ANIMAL MODELS FOR BONE FRACTURE NONUNION AND THEIR ROLE IN STUDYING BIOLOGICAL THERAPY EFFICACY
Authors: Vorontsov Petro , Maltseva Valentyna
Published: July 2024

The bone healing impairment, such as non-union fractures after injuries of long bones, lead to loss of working capacity and result in significant financial costs, which emphasizes the socioeconomic significance of the problem. However, it is not known which method of modeling the non-union bone fractures is more optimal for further research into the effectiveness of biological therapy aimed at treating bone healing impairment. For a detailed study of methods of non-union fracture treatment of, it is necessary to determine the developed animal models. The objective was to analyze the existing animal models of fracture nonunion in long bones in vivo and to consider the possibility of their further use to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of modern biotechnologies for the in the management of fracture nonunion. It was found that the majority of developed animal models of atrophic long bone non-union were created using small animals, namely rats, mice, and rabbits. A more common method of modeling bone non-union is performing an osteotomy with the formation of a defect of different widths between the bone fragments and subsequent removal of the periosteum proximal and distal to the osteotomy site; damage to the endosteum or removal of bone marrow. Also, in such animal models, researchers use a silicone spacer, a polysulfone plate, or a latex-silicone foil to physically prevent fracture union. In these animal models, studies using mesenchymal stromal cells, platelet-rich plasma or bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2) have already been conducted for the management of non-union bone fractures. At the same time, the clinical results of the application of various biological therapies are ambiguous, which determines the conduct of further experimental studies, in particular, in vivo. However, there are disagreements about which in vivo modeling methods give a reproducible result and prevent bone union, which determines the need for further analysis of existing modeling tools for  conducting research in this direction.
Speech and Language Assessment Tools for Preschool and Primary School Children: Literature Review
Authors: Lelik Valeriya P. , Dyachkova Maria D. , Dorofeeva Svetlana V.
Published: July 2024

The wide range of methods has been suggested for assessing the speech and language development in children. Therefore, the choice of suitable assessment tool is not always trivial. This article provides the overview of the methods used to examine Russian-speaking children, emphasises the parameters crucial for their comparison and, finally, choice itself. This review can be useful for researchers in the field of children’s speech and language development, specialists using various tools for assessing children’s speech in practice (pediatricians, speech pathologists, defectologists), as well as teachers and parents.
General Rehabilitation Principles for Patients with Cerebral Palsy After Single-Event Multilevel Surgery (SEMLS)
Authors: Klochkova Olga A. , Popkov Dmitry A. , Mamedyarov Ayaz M. , Mamedov Ulvi F.
Published: July 2024

Single-Event Multilevel Surgery (SEMLS) is the standard for surgical correction of secondary orthopedic deformities in cerebral palsy (CP). SEMLS include simultaneous correction of soft tissue contractures, bone deformities, incomplete and complete joint dislocation to improve the gait and functional activity of patients with CP. The surgery volume determines the need for planned and long-term postoperative rehabilitation, however, there are no confirmed guidelines, neither Russian, nor foreign, on the patient’s management during postoperative period. This review provides an analysis of rehabilitation approaches after SEMLS at CP, offers recommendations on preparation and step-by-step postoperative restoration of motor function, and prevention of any associated complications.
The uniaxial compressive strength of concrete: revisited
Authors: Yankelevsky David Z.
Published: July 2024

This paper re-examines common notions and conventions regarding the compressive strength of concrete in general and of the uniaxial compressive strength of concrete in particular. A distinction is introduced between the strength of the specimen and the strength of the concrete as a material, and the commonly measured and adopted strength is shown to be the specimen’s strength, wrongly interpreted as the material’s strength. the two major damage modes of concrete specimens (with the formation of either longitudinal cracks or shear bands) are discussed. Such failure modes are wrongly considered as features of concrete behavior in uniaxial compression, but this is not the case. Longitudinal cracking is due to lateral expansion (Poisson’s effect) and occurs at a relatively low applied load in absence of friction at specimen’s top and bottom boundaries. Shear failure (accompanied by the formation of an inclined shear band) is related to the shear envelope parameters that are related to the concrete mixture, but the applied ultimate pressure is not the concrete uniaxial compressive strength. Hence, though caused by applied compressive loading, these failure modes are little/hardly related to the concrete material intended as the ultimate uniaxial stress (strength) corresponding to a maximum value of the uniaxial compressive strain. Using the shear envelope parameters has been proven to yield a very good prediction of the applied compressive loading of the specimen in the limit state, as a demonstration that the applied pressure at specimen’s failure resulting from the formation of inclined fracture bands is the specimen’s failure strength, and not the material’s compressive strength! Reasons are given against the existence of a uniaxial compressive strength failure for concrete, and a piece of evidence in this direction is provided by concrete specimens subjected to pure hydrostatic compression, that do not fail at all. The entire issue requires, therefore, a deep revisiting and re-thinking, to provide correct measures for representing concrete response under compression in analysis and design.
Ketogenic Diet and Progression of Kidney Disease in Animal Models of Nephropathic Cystinosis
Authors: Bellomo Francesco , Pugliese Sara , Cairoli Sara , Krohn Patrick , De Stefanis Cristiano , Raso Roberto , Rega Laura Rita , Taranta Anna , De Leo Ester , Ciolfi Andrea , Cicolani Nicolò , Petrini Stefania , Luciani Alessandro , Goffredo Bianca Maria , Porzio Ottavia , Devuyst Olivier , Dionisi-Vici Carlo , Emma Francesco
Published: July 2024

Key Points

Ketogenic diet can change the metabolism in the body and helped restore the function of altered pathways in nephropathic cystinosis.

Ketogenic diet had significant benefits for preventing kidney damage, even when initiated after the onset of kidney impairment.

Ketogenic diet may provide a partial therapeutic alternative in countries where cysteamine therapy is too expensive.

Background

Nephropathic cystinosis is a rare inherited lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in the CTNS gene that encodes for cystinosin, a lysosomal cystine/H+ symporter. From the standpoint of the kidneys, patients develop early-onset renal Fanconi syndrome and progressive CKD. Current therapy with cysteamine delays but does not prevent kidney failure and has significant side effects that limit adherence and reduce the quality of life of patients.

Methods

We have tested biochemically and histologically the effects of ketogenic diet on kidney disease of two animal models of nephropathic cystinosis.

Results

When Ctns
−/− mice were fed with ketogenic diet from 3 to 12 months of age, we observed significant nearly complete prevention of Fanconi syndrome, including low molecular weight proteinuria, glycosuria, and polyuria. Compared with wild-type animals, BUN at 12 months was higher in cystinotic mice fed with standard diet (P < 0.001), but not with ketogenic diet. At sacrifice, kidneys of knockout mice fed with ketogenic diet appeared macroscopically similar to those of wild-type animals, which was reflected microscopically by a significant reduction of interstitial cell infiltration (CD3 and CD68 positive cells, P < 0.01), of interstitial fibrosis (Masson and α-smooth muscle actin staining, P < 0.001), and of apoptosis (cleaved caspase-3 levels; P < 0.001), and by indirect evidence of restoration of a normal autophagic flux (SQSTM1/p62 and LC3-II expression, P < 0.05). Beneficial effects of ketogenic diet on tubular function were also observed after mice were fed with this ketogenic diet from the age of 6 months to the age of 15 months, after they had developed proximal tubular dysfunction. Although slightly less pronounced, these results were replicated in Ctns
−/− rats fed with ketogenic diet from 2 to 8 months of life.

Conclusions

These results indicate significant mitigation of the kidney phenotype in cystinotic animals fed with ketogenic diet.
Adjusting the conditions and the form of the eighth-grader Polish language exam to students with the spectrum of autism
Authors: Skrzypczyk-Gałkowska Iwona
Published: July 2024

According to the idea of inclusive education, students with the spectrum of autism attend mainstream primary schools more and more often. That requires teaching such students in the way adjusted to their educational needs and conducting the eighth-grader exam taking into consideration the adjusted conditions and exam form, which is regulated by the provisions of the education law. The analysis of the material concerning the adjustments of exam conditions shows that they reflect individual needs of students with the spectrum of autism and are a great convenience for them.On the other hand, the comparison of the standard Polish language exam sheets and the adjusted ones leads to the conclusion that the sheet itself and the tasks are to a great extent adjusted to the needs of students with autism, including Asperger syndrome. However, there are areas calling for change so that the content of the exam is even better adjusted to students with the spectrum of autism.
Studies on sex ratio, condition factor and patterns of phenotypic estimation in stock identification of snow trout, Schizothorax esocinus Heckel, 1838 inhabiting the colder Indian Himalayan region
Authors: Akhter Gulshan , Ahmed Imtiaz , Ahmad Mudasir
Published: July 2024

Schizothorax esocinus, a nutrient-rich food fish offered in Asian countries, is rapidly declining due to severe fishing pressure and pollution in its wild environment, requiring active conservation strategies. Our study examined 196 specimens to elucidate critical biological parameters including sex ratio, length-weight relationships (LWRs), Fulton's condition factor (K) and morphometric-meristic parameters. The general sex ratio was not substantially departed from the predicted value of 1 : 1, with the exception for the month of May, where χ2 = 4.15 which is greater than the calculated value of 3.84. The correlation between the length and weight was reported as Log W = 0.134209 + 2.5218 log L for males, Log W = 0.19173 + 2.6751 log L for females and Log W = 0.162116 + 2.594 for combined sexes. Schizothorax esocinus demonstrated a negative allometric growth as indicated by the allometric parameter b for the LWR. The two sexes showed no significant differences in morphometric measures. So, this study included combined-sex regression analysis. These comprehensive findings highlight the critical need for conservation efforts in India and neighbouring countries to preserve this valuable fish stock for future generations.
Berücksichtigung von Altersaspekten in der betrieblichen Prävention
Authors: Albrod Manfred
Published: July 2024

Die Leistung von Beschäftigten an ihrem Arbeitsplatz variiert inter- und intraindividuell innerhalb eines großen Spektrums. Hierzu tragen neben zahlreichen Faktoren des Arbeitsplatzes auch Merkmale der betreffenden Person selbst bei. Einen der personengebundenen Einflussfaktoren stellt das Lebensalter dar. Es wird daher vorgeschlagen, Altersaspekte im betrieblichen Gesundheitsschutz präventiv und systematisch zu berücksichtigen.
Chromatographic methods for the determination of free bisphenol A in technical and food products
Authors: Rudakov Yaroslav O. , Selemenev Vladimir F. , Khorokhordin Alexey M. , Volkov Alexander A.
Published: July 2024

The article provides a brief overview of chromatographic methods for the determination of free bisphenol A in technical and food products. Bisphenol A (BPA) is used as a monomer in the production of some plastics and epoxy resins. Free BPA may be present in quantities exceeding acceptable levels in plastic food containers and in food products packaged in these containers. Maximum permissible concentration (MPC) of BPA in the air of the working area is 5 mg/m3, which in terms of liquid is 5 µg/dm3. Maximum permissible concentration for the content of BPA in water, in water bodies for domestic, drinking and community water use is 0.1 mg/dm3. In European countries for plastics in contact with food, the BPA migration value is 0.6 mg/kg. Despite the relatively low toxicity of BPA, it can accumulate in the human body and cause harmful effects. To determine BPA in plastic, food products, and biological fluids, gas chromatography with preliminary derivatization by silylation or acylation of the analyte is most often used. Gas chromatographic techniques for direct chromatography on heat-resistant columns have also been developed. A fluorometric detector and a mass spectrometric detector are used as detection devices, along with a flame ionization detector. An alternative method for determination of BPA is HPLC with optical and mass spectrometric detection methods. The TLC method was also developed for the determination of BPA. For the preparation of BPA samples, solid-phase extraction (SPE), liquid-liquid extraction (LLE), dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME), combined extraction method with acetonitrile separation (QuEChERS) are used.
Evaluation of anthocyanines antioxidant properties using chromatography
Authors: Deineka Viktor I. , Selemenev Vladimir F. , Eliseeva Tatiana V. , Blinova Irina P. , Nuzhnyh Tatiana S.
Published: July 2024

A method for assessing the antioxidant properties of anthocyanins was proposed, using a reaction with an aqueous solution of potassium permanganate followed by chromatographic determination of the concentration of various anthocyanins in complex mixtures in comparison with the original solution. The main feature of the method is the exclusion of the occurrence of a chain of successive oxidation reactions of each initial anthocyanin, which is actually observed when using traditional methods for determining antioxidant properties. For this purpose, a lack of oxidant was used, which should be consumed mainly in the first stages for each antioxidant, under the assumption that the activity of the initial (least oxidized) anthocyanin is higher than that of the products formed from it. Only such a scheme allows comparing antioxidant activity (as a time-dependent parameter instead of the usually determined antioxidant capacity) depending on the structure of the molecule. Based on a study of the oxidation of 3-glucosides with potassium permanganate of five different main natural anthocyanidins (in extracts of grape fruits and leaves of Cercis canadensis), a dependence of antioxidant activity was established, which increased in the series: Pn3Glu<Cy3Glu<Mv3Glu<Pt3Glu<Dp3Glu. Consequently, the antioxidant activity of anthocyanins of the same type increased with the addition of an OH group to the B ring of the aglycone more strongly than the addition of a methoxy group. The analysis of anthocyanins from the fruits of grape variety Mercedes extract showed that the acylation of peonidin and malvidin 3-glucosides by p-coumaric acid did not lead to higher resistance. Therefore, the conclusion about higher stability of acylated anthocyanins are not always true. An analysis of the oxidability of various 3-glycosides by potassium permanganate was performed on the extract of black currant and red viburnum fruits and showed that in the first case, the oxidability does not reliably change when moving from 3-glucosides to 3-rutinoside. Moreover, in the second case, the addition of a second monoside to the existing 3-glucoside for both arabinoside and rhamnoside led to a decrease in activity. This indicates that accompanying extractives can alter the course of some reactions.
Adsorption properties of the surface of Silochrome S-80 modified with aluminium alizarinate
Authors: Pakhnutova Evgenia A. , Slizhov Yuri G.
Published: July 2024

Silica-based materials are widely used in the processes of concentration and separation of various organic substances. Successful use of SiO2 is due to its chemical resistance, thermal stability, the nature and distribution of functional groups on the surface, as well as the possibility of creating materials based on it with certain textural characteristics, which are regulated by synthesis conditions and surface modification. For the solution of specific problems of chromatography, it is necessary to obtain new adsorbents with fixed functional groups, layers or elements, by varying which the number and types of adsorption centres of the original surface change. Chelate complexes of transition metals, including those deposited in the form of adsorption layers, are used as promising modifying additives of particular interest. In this work, SiO2 based on Silochrome S-80, modified with aluminium alizarinate was studied by physicochemical method. Using thermogravimetry it was established that aluminium alizarinate is stable up to 270 °C. Using adsorption porosimetry, it was shown that modification of silica leads to a decrease in the average diameters and total volumes of pores, and specific surface areas from 84 to 79 m²/g. Using IR and Raman spectroscopy, the fixation of chelates on the surface of Silochrome was proven.
The gas chromatographic method was used to study the adsorption processes of organic compounds (n-alkanes, nitromethane, heptene-1, aromatic hydrocarbons, ketones and alcohols) capable of various types of intermolecular interactions. The modification of silica with an alizarin-containing complex contributes to a change in the Henry adsorption constants and the contributions of specific interactions to the heat of adsorption. In this case, the highest values of ∆ q̅dif,1(special) are characteristic of organic compounds prone to donor-acceptor and π-complex formation.
According to the analysis of compensation thermodynamic dependencies q̅dif,1 - ∆S̅S1,c it was shown that entropy is the determining thermodynamic parameter during the adsorption of test compounds on the surface of the studied chromatographic materials.
Физико-химические свойства суспензий на основе оксида алюминия и перспективы их применения
Authors: Niftaliev Sabukhi I. , Kuznetsova Irina V. , Nikiforova Anastasia D. , Sugatov Denis S. , Alikin Evgeniy A. , Baksheev Evgeniy O. , Rychkov Vladimir N.
Published: July 2024

Cordierite blocks of a honeycomb structure with square cross-section channels are used as ceramic carriers for three-route automotive catalysts. Catalytically active layers are applied from suspensions based on γ-Al2O3, which is introduced into the internal volume of the carrier. The preparation of suspensions included impregnation of Al2O3 powder with solutions of Pt, Eu precursors, dilution with water, grinding to particles with an average size of 4 microns, setting acidity in the required range.
 The study of the physicochemical properties (point of zero charge, specific surface area, particle size, pore volume, average pore diameter) of a suspension prepared on the basis of aluminium oxide and modified with europium and platinum ions is relevant due to the possibility of using three-path catalysts in technology.
The surface and porosity parameters were determined by low-temperature nitrogen adsorption/desorption.
pHzcp values were determined by gravimetric titration, the pH of the points were in the range of 6.01-7.1, therefore, the specified acidity range should not be beyond these limits. The processes of thermal destruction of suspensions during heating were studied by thermal analysis. During the heating process from -100 to 250°C, a weight loss was observed throughout the heating process. Endothermic effects were discovered, corresponding to the melting of ice, evaporation of moisture, and decomposition of nitrogen-containing compounds. The greatest weight loss was observed in an aluminium oxide sample modified with europium and platinum ions (Eu,Pt/γ-Al2O3). Quantitative assessment of the forms of moisture bonds in the suspension was carried out using experimental dependences on weight changes of the TG sample and the rate of change in the DTG weight in the temperature range of 270-380 K. Based on the activation energy values, it was established that the mechanism of moisture release from the Eu,Pt/γ-Al2O3 differs from others. The calculated activation energies for the release of moisture was high (41-92 kJ/mol), which indicates the bound state of water in the structure of the solid phase. The suspension was applied to a ceramic catalyst base and annealed at 500 °C, information about the mechanism of moisture release during heating of the suspension will help to avoid a decrease in the specific surface area.
Study of sorption of platinum, palladium and rhodium ions on a carbon sorbent
Authors: Vysotina Alina E. , Slepchenko Galina B.
Published: July 2024

The article is devoted to the sorption concentration of platinum (II,IV), palladium (II) and rhodium (III) ions from chloride media on a carbon synthetic sorbent. For the study of the sorption concentration of platinum group metals, the carbon synthetic sorbent Lewatit AF5 was chosen. This sorbent has high mechanical strength, high surface area, narrow pore size distribution, and low cost compared to silicate or polymer sorbents.
Sorption concentration was carried out under static conditions from model chloride solutions. The concentration of analytes in the initial solutions ranged from 8 to 50 mmol/dm3. Equilibrium concentrations of metals in solutions were determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. The dependences of adsorption on contact time, free acidity and redox potential of the system were studied, and the limiting absorption values for each of the metals studied were determined.
The study of the kinetic parameters of the sorption of Pt (IV), Pd (II) and Rh (III) ions was carried out from chloride solutions characterized by free acidity values of 0.01 mol/dm3. The time for establishing sorption equilibrium was determined, which was 4 hours for each of the ions. When studying the dependence of adsorption on free acidity and the oxidation-reduction potential of the system (ORP), it was revealed that with an increase in free acidity and redox potential, a decrease in sorption activity is observed, thus we can conclude that aquated complexes of platinum metals, in which metals present not in the highest oxidation state, involved in the sorption process.
Processing of experimental data showed the applicability of the linear equation of the Langmuir isotherm for the description of the adsorption process, the limiting adsorption values were calculated, using which the sorption capacity of the sorbent was assessed. The sorption capacity for Pt (II, IV), Pd (II) and Rh (III) was 1.24 mmol/g; 1.16 mmol/g and 0.57 mmol/g, respectively. High values of sorption capacity, as well as a fairly short time to achieve sorption equilibrium without the use of means for the acceleration of the process, in combination with the mechanical characteristics of the sorbent, allow us to conclude that the Lewatit AF5 sorbent is promising for the concentration of platinum group metals from hydrochloric acid solutions.
Catalytic activity of modified silica gel adsorbents under conditions of methanol conversion from water-methanol waste of natural gas
Authors: Temerdashev Zaual A. , Kostina Anna S. , Alexander M. Alexander M. , Vasil’eva Lada V.
Published: July 2024

The work is devoted to the analysis of factors affecting the catalytic activity of modified silica gel adsorbents under conditions of methanol conversion to dimethyl ether. The objects of the study were the initial and modified silica gel adsorbents ASM, ASM VS, BASF KC-Trockenperlen H and BASF KC-Trockenperlen WS used in the purification of methanol from water‒methanol waste of natural gas. The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of the specific surface area, elemental and phase composition, and operating time of adsorbents on the catalytic activity of modified silica gel adsorbents under conditions of methanol conversion to dimethyl ether. The composition and structural characteristics of the samples were determined by X‒ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction analysis and low-temperature nitrogen adsorption. Based on the results of IR‒spectrometric and thermal studies, changes in the structure of the surfaces of adsorbents during their operation by various components of organic origin were evaluated. The catalytic activity of silica gel adsorbents in methanol conversion was studied in a fixed bed reactor at atmospheric pressure in the range of 120-290°C and an optimized rate of methanol-saturated nitrogen flow of 1200 ml/min. The methanol conversion process was controlled by gas‒liquid chromatography. An increase of the catalytic activity of adsorbents in methanol conversion to dimethyl ether was found in the range of ASM VS < BASF KC-Trockenperlen WS < BASF KC-Trockenperlen H < ASM. The maximum catalytic activity at 290°C was shown by the adsorbent ASM with 4.2% aluminum oxide and an amorphous structure, which significantly reduces methanol emissions into the atmosphere. For crystalline adsorbents ASM VS with an alumina content of 13.2%, the catalytic activity was minimal. It is shown that the decrease in the catalytic activity of adsorbents in gas treatment unit during operation is associated with a decrease in the value of the specific surface area of samples with a constant content of aluminum oxide and phase state, which is associated with the possible blocking of the catalytic centers of adsorbents due to the accumulation of components of organic origin in the process of natural gas purification. The establishment of factors affecting the methanol conversion to dimethyl ether on modified silica gel adsorbents will allow managing environmental risks, as well as reducing risks to humans during transportation and disposal of water-methanol waste from natural gas purification.
Study of the adsorption of copper, nickel and zinc ions on a zeolite-containing sorbent synthesized from thermal power plant waste
Authors: Usova Elena L. , Reshetova Antonina A. , Poleshchuk Irina N. , Pimneva Lyudmila A.
Published: July 2024

The study investigated the possibility of using ash and slag waste from thermal power plants as an alternative raw material source to obtain an inexpensive zeolite-containing sorbent, which was synthesized by hydrothermal synthesis by adding 20% sodium hydroxide at a temperature of 120оC for 24 hours. Using X-ray diffraction, it was established that the synthesized material mainly consists of the framework aluminosilicate mineral hydrosodalite. Using the obtained material, the sorption of copper, zinc, and nickel cations from aqueous media was studied using the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin-Radushkevich models. The constants of these equations were determined, the values of the isobaric-isothermal potential and the free energy of ion adsorption were calculated. It has been established that the sorption of metal ions is of a physical nature. It was found that the Dubinin–Radushkevich equation better describes the process of adsorption of zinc and nickel, and the Langmuir equation better describes the sorption of copper ions. The decrease in the degree of affinity of sorbed ions to the surface of the synthesized zeolite-containing sorbent was determined as follows: .
Thus, based on the obtained values of sorption of copper, zinc, and nickel ions, the fundamental possibility of using ash and slag waste as a raw material source for obtaining inexpensive and effective zeolite-containing sorbents for extracting the above metal ions from aqueous media was established.
Specific features of the sorption of methylene blue by biochars based on pine and birch carbonizates
Authors: Tomina Elena V. , Khodosova Natalia A. , Nguyen Anh Tien , Manukovskaya Varvara E. , Huy Nguyen Hoang
Published: July 2024

We obtained pine and birch biochars by carbonising sawdust at 500°C for 3 hours with a heating rate to the specified temperature of 10°C/min, with a fairly good yield for slow pyrolysis of 29% and 36% and particle sizes of up to 160 and 350 μm, respectively. Two-hour alkaline activation resulted in a decrease in particle size (20–60 µm for birch and 50-150 µm for pine coals), an increase in bulk and real densities, and a slight increase in pH. Using the energy dispersive analysis, we established the carbon basis of activated biochars and identified a tendency to an increase in the carbon content and a decrease in oxygen as a result of activation, which led to reduced O/C ratio of 0.258 for birch charcoal and 0.243 for pine charcoal.
The kinetic sorption curves of the methylene blue dye on all studied coal samples were correctly described by a pseudo-second order model. The adsorption rate depended on the number of adsorption centres and was controlled by the contribution of the chemical reaction. A significant share of electrostatic interactions between the cationic dye and the negatively charged biochar surface could be expected. The sorption capacity of the initial and activated birch charcoal was twice higher than the corresponding pine samples. The Langmuir adsorption model correctly described the sorption of methylene blue on the studied biochars, which was confirmed by the high values of correlation coefficients. The efficiency of sorption purification from the cationic methylene blue on activated biochars from birch and pine reached 98 and 49%, respectively, which agreed well with the values of the adsorption capacity and sorption rates on these coal samples.
Sanitary Problems and Trace Metals Bioaccumulation during Drip Irrigation with Treated Wastewater in Okra
Authors: Mohamed Naceur Khelil , Malika Mahmoudi , Rim Ghrib , Samir Yacoubi
Published: July 2024

Water scarcity, mainly in arid and semi-arid zones, has encouraged efforts to adopt non-conventional waters for food production and agricultural development. Treated Wastewater (TWW) is one of the most continuously produced, accessible, and inexpensive water resources, with great potential for use in irrigation. The aim of this study was to investigate the combined effect of drip irrigation methods (surface vs. subsurface at 15 cm depth) and water quality (borehole water vs. treated wastewater) on soil water content, morphological and physiological traits, and nutrient content in the plant and fruit of okra grown in the Nabeul region of north-west Tunisia, a semi-arid zone. The results indicated that Okra yield was significantly affected by water quality rather than irrigation technique. Irrigation with TWW significantly increased the Okra plant height; leaf number; total fruit/m²; final yield and leaf area compared with borehole water. Nutrient levels (Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mn) in Okra plant parts (root, stem, leaf, and fruit) were also significantly increased with TWW in subsurface drip irrigation. Apart from these increased parameters were related to better soil moisture and increased available nutrients in the root zone. In terms of bioaccumulation, apart from Ni, the elements analyzed (Zn, Mn, Cu, Pb, Co, Cd) in plant and fruits showed higher values in treated wastewater than in borehole water with fruit values exceeding the toxicity threshold for Cd and Pb. Furthermore, the increase in the content of trace metal elements analyzed in the fruit following irrigation with TWW did not affect the human Health Risk Index (HRI), which remained below 1 for all treatments. Furthermore, with regard to bacterial and fungal contamination of fruit, we note that although these parameters are significantly higher in Irrigation with TWW, they remain below the toxicity thresholds. Thus, the long-term effect and continuous monitoring of the water and fruit quality in wastewater-irrigated areas to take remedial actions for sustainable agriculture development and protect ecosystems are recommended.
Metabolite Profiling of Urban and Forest Tree Rhizosphere Soil using Analytical Instruments
Authors: Yujun Park , Jun Woo Cho , Byung Sun Yu , Kyudong Han
Published: July 2024

The rhizosphere is the area of the soil affected by plant roots and plays an important role in plant health, nutrient cycling, and soil structure. This study investigated differences in rhizosphere soil metabolites between trees in urban and forest environments using LC/MS-Q-TOF and GC/MS. Urban environments can cause soil pollution and ecosystem disturbance due to the accumulation of heavy metals and petrochemicals, while forest environments are rich in organic matter and fallen leaves, maintaining a nutrient-rich environment in which various microorganisms coexist. Rhizosphere soil samples were collected from Dankook University (city) and Taejo Mountain (forest) in Cheonan, South Korea, extracted using methanol and chloroform using the Soxhlet extraction method, and then analyzed by LC/MS-Q-TOF and GC/MS. N-Nitrosopyrrolidine, a possible carcinogen from automobile exhaust and industrial activities, has been found in the rhizosphere soil of urban trees. Forest rhizosphere samples showed high concentrations of momilactone A, which is important for plant defense mechanisms. 140 significant metabolites were identified through MPP analysis. Furthermore, GC/MS analysis confirmed that siloxanes and oleamides were predominantly detected in urban and forest samples, respectively. Overall, this study highlights the impact of environmental conditions on rhizosphere soil chemistry and microbial ecosystems and provides insights for urban greening and forest conservation strategies. Comprehensive profiling of rhizosphere metabolites will improve our understanding of plant-soil interactions and contribute to maintaining soil health and plant diversity in diverse ecosystems.
Narratives of hybridity
Authors: Speelman Gé
Published: July 2024

Many nineteenth-century European authors have written novels in which the colonization process played a background role. Much rarer are contemporary literary reflections by colonized people. In an attempt at reconstruction of their points of view, present-day author Amitav Ghosh tries to give the colonized people voice in his historical novels. In his Ibis trilogy, he makes “the subaltern speak” in a diversity of voices. In this rendering of the narrative of emerging colonialism from the viewpoint of subalterns, Ghosh pays special attention to situations of hybridity that are created by the colonial master-narrative. “Hybridity” is a concept that was developed by Homi Bhabha. In this article, I want to investigate how hybridity functions in the Ibis trilogy of Ghosh, especially in his novel Sea of Poppies, and whether hybridity, according to Ghosh, creates a liberating alternative discourse to deal with the traumas of colonialism.
practical theology case study of transforming lives of the poor in the Amalinda Forest Community, East London
Authors: Dames Gordon Ernest , Mazantsana Mandah Khuthaza
Published: July 2024

How can the problem of poverty be addressed by those concerned about the transformational development of the poor in South Africa? The church, as a community of faith and the bearer of the Christian witness cannot be left behind when responding to this question. This article reflects on a practical theological intervention where a church moved beyond its walls to help those in need. The active role played by the church in addressing this problem and the response of the community will be brought to light. However, this is a challenge that does not affect a local church only: research findings undergird the transformative engagement of the entire church community and calls for local social and political institutions to form a multipurpose partnership to deal with poverty in affected communities.
Pengaruh Kemahiran Literasi Media dalam Konteks Pengundi Muda Baharu di Malaysia
Authors: Sah Allam Siti Nurshahidah ,   Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Mustaffa Normah , Ali Mohd Nor Shahizan ,   Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia,   Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia
Published: July 2024

The Influence of Political Information Processing Skills among New Young Voters in Malaysia ABSTRACT: The eligible voters age limit from 21 years to 18 years and triggered the issue of political participation readiness among new young voters in Malaysia. This study claims that media literacy skills from political information process dimension influence the political participation readiness. This study aims to evaluate the influence of media literacy skills from political information process dimension towards political participation readiness. There are seven political information process skills that are verified such as analysis, evaluation, grouping, induction, deduction, synthesis and abstract. By using survey and simple random sampling towards 547 respondents aged 18 to 26 years, this study, strategize data collection to represent the population of new young voters in Malaysia. The map of Malaysia is divided into North, South, East, West and Borneo Zones covering urban and rural areas. This study reported that the skills of induction, deduction and synthesis have positive influence towards political participation readiness among new young voters in Malaysia. However, the skills of analysis, evaluation, grouping and abstracting do not have any significant influence. This study suggests a strategic collaboration between the Ministry of Youth and Sports with the Malaysian Election Commission, the Ministry of Communications and the Ministry of Digital in the National Service Training Program (PLKN). This initiative is expected increase the level of political participation readiness among new young voters in Malaysia. Keywords: Media literacy, new young voters, political information processing skills, political participation, voting.