bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Resource Use Efficiency and Profitability of maize seed production in the Rolpa district of Nepal
Authors: Neupane Shobita , Katel Shambhu , Bista Nabraj , Yadav Shubh Pravat Singh , Dahal Bienam
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to assess the profitability and resource use efficiency of maize seed production in the Rolpa district of Nepal. Primary data were collected from a sample of 67 maize-growing farmers involved in maize seed production, selected randomly from the sampling frame with a confidence level of 95% and a margin of error of 5%, using Raosoft. Additionally, secondary information was obtained through a review of relevant literature. Descriptive statistics and the Cobb-Douglas production function were employed for data analysis. The results indicated that maize seed production in the study area was profitable, as evidenced by a gross margin of 17,160.6 NRs./ha and a benefit-cost ratio of 1.12. The productivity level was estimated at 15.46 qtl/ha. Moreover, the return to scale of maize seed production was calculated to be 0.79, suggesting a decreasing return to scale. The analysis of allocative efficiency indices highlighted the need for optimizing resource allocation. Specifically, increasing costs on seed, chemical fertilizers, and management by 94.03%, 99.30%, and 60.25% respectively would lead to optimal resource allocation. Conversely, costs related to human labor, farmyard manure (FYM), and tillage should be reduced. This research contributes to a better understanding of the profitability and resource utilization in maize seed production in the Rolpa district of Nepal. The findings provide valuable insights for farmers and policymakers to make informed decisions regarding resource allocation and enhance the overall efficiency and sustainability of maize seed production in the region.
A Study on Determination of Energy Productivity and Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Wheat Production
Authors: Demirel M Hüseyin , Baran Mehmet Fırat , Gökdoğan Osman
Published: May 2024

In this study, energy use efficiency (EUE) and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) in wheat production were defined, and the energy equivalents (EE) of the inputs in production per unit production area, EUE and GHG values of the product were computed. The data used in the study were obtained from 175 different wheat producing enterprises in 2021 by conducting face-to-face surveys according to the proportional sampling method. In the study, the amount of direct (DE) and indirect energy (IE) use in wheat production and their shares in total energy consumption were defined. According to the results of the study, total energy input (EI) in wheat production was com-puted as 19,024.21 MJ/ha and energy output (EO) as 80,585.40 MJ/ha. It was defined that the input with the highest energy consumption was fertili-zation with a value of 8748.38 MJ/ha. This was followed by seed energy input 4626.79 MJ/ha (24.32%), fuel energy 2697.25 MJ/ha (14.18%), irriga-tion energy 2362.50 MJ/ha (12.42%), chemicals energy 269.19 MJ/ha (1.41%), machinery energy 309.52 MJ/ha (1.63%), human labor energy 10.58 MJ/ha (0.06%). EUE, energy productivity (EP), specific energy (SE) and net energy (NE) yield values were 4.24, 0.29 kg/MJ, 3.47 MJ/kg and 61561.19 MJ/ha, respectively. Total GHG emission for wheat production was computed as 3784.60 kgCO2-eq/ha. The highest share of total GHG emissions belonged to seed (59.41%). Seed was followed by irrigation (16.84%), nitrogen fertilizer use (14.60%), phosphate fertilizer use (3.99%), fuel use (3.49%), chemicals use (0.98%), machinery use (0.58%) and hu-man labor (0.10%). In addition, the GHG ratio in wheat production was computed as 0.69 kgCO2-eq/ha.
In Vitro Vitamin C Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity, Cytotoxicity and Anti-Cancer Activity of Methanolic Urtica dioica L. Leaf Extract as a Food Supplement
Authors: Korkmaz Serol , Aydın Hanife Banu , Korkmaz İrem
Published: May 2024

Antioxidant capacity, cytotoxicity on two vital cell lines and the anti-cancer activity of methanolic Urtica dioica L. leaf extract (UDE) collected from Duzkoy, Giresun, Turkey were studied by determining safe concentration. The antioxidant capacity of the extract was expressed as vitamin C equivalency by spectrophotometric MTT assay. The cytotoxic concentration 50% was measured by the linearity between UDE concentrations (CC50) and the cell viability of non-cancer kidney cell lines (BHK-21, MDBK). The anti-cancer activity was conducted on human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) by determining inhibition concentration (IC50) on cell proliferation. The vitamin C equivalence of UDE increased linearly by increasing the concentration. The cytotoxic and non-toxic concentrations of UDE were determined on BHK-21 and MDBK with 15.71 mg/ml and 5.14 mg/ml of CC50 respectively. The extract inhibited the proliferation of human hepatocellular carcinoma cells with a 2.46 mg/ml of IC50. In conclusion, the present study tried to explain in detail the dose-dependent activity of Urtica dioica L. leaf extract. The dose-response results showed that Urtica dioica L. leaf extract could have low cytotoxicity, but potential anti-cancer activity at safe concentrations.
Farming Legumes for Food Security and Agricultural Sustainability in Somalia
Authors: Jama Abdikadir Musa , Kahraman Ali
Published: May 2024

This research was carried out in 2023 in a total of 5 cities (Muqdisho, Afgooye, Baydoa, Jowhar and Belet-hawa) from different regions of Somalia, in order to reveal the problems faced by legume growers and to investigate ways to solve them, thus contributing to food security and agricultural sustainability. A total of 100 farmers, 20 randomly selected from each province, participated in 30 survey questions face to face. As a result of the research conducted in the mentioned regions, it was seen that there are problems in pest and disease control, weed control, fertilizer application and irrigation techniques and water use in legume agriculture. These problems are the main factors affecting the production of legumes. In order to prevent such problems and mistakes, farmers need to pay extra attention to get better quality and higher yields from their legume production, and sustainability-based studies must be increased to solve such problems, especially for food security.
Comprehensive Analysis of Flowering Patterns in One-Year-Old Long Shoots of Apple Cultivars with Contrasted Bearing Habits
Authors: Atay Ayşe Nilgün
Published: May 2024

Before developing orchard management strategies, it is crucial to conduct architectural analysis at the shoot level for the specific type of fruit to be grown. The objective of this study was to analyze flowering patterns in 1-year-old long shoots of three apple cultivars ('Amasya,' 'Braeburn,' and 'Granny Smith') with different bearing behaviors. This analysis aimed to gain a better understanding of their growth dynamics and reproductive activities. The shoot was divided into three consecutive zones (proximal, median, and distal) based on node number. When comparing the number of floral and vegetative buds in the three zones along the shoot, less contrast was observed between alternate-bearing ('Amasya') and regular-bearing cultivars ('Braeburn' and 'Granny Smith'). However, a notable difference in floral bud quality variables was evident in shoot zones between biennial-bearing and regular-bearing cultivars. In 'Braeburn' and 'Granny Smith' with a regular bearing habit, floral bud quality variables remained stable along the shoot. In contrast, 'Amasya' shoots exhibited a gradual increase in floral bud quality from the proximal zone towards the distal zone. This study underscores the significance of floral bud quality, especially the properties of spur leaves along the shoot, in ensuring optimal and consistent productivity. Finally, with the exception of internode length, morphometric traits did not significantly differ between cultivars when considering the entire shoot. However, these differences became apparent when examining successive zones along the shoot.
Indonesian Perspective: Identification of Stevia Plant (Stevia Rebaudiana Bertoni M.) as Medicine Prospects
Authors: Perkasa Achmad Yozar , Mulyana Erik
Published: May 2024

Stevia plant has the potential for development as a source of natural sweeteners, a plant from South America and indigenous of Paraguay, has shown several advantages including the level of sweetness that reaches 100-200 the sweetness of sugar cane and low calorie also constituting a source of many substances with a nutritional effect on the human beings. Folk medicine of Indonesian indigenous tribes recommends it particularly as a substance strengthening the heart, the circulatory system and regulating blood pressure. It exhibits antibacterial, antifungal and anticaries properties. This stevia study aimed to educate people about the efficacy and safety of the stevia plant as a sweetener to replace sugar and medicines by diabetic patients as a part of Indonesia perspective the aims also to enrich information about the stevia plant which has the potential for development as a source of natural sweeteners, and as a medicine for diabetes with a bright prospects in the future.
Preparation of spherical nanocellulose from waste tobacco stem
Authors: Luo Fanghan , Xu Xueju , Jiang Yongze , Qi Jinqiu , Zhou Jian , Liu Yaxi , Zhang Shaobo
Published: May 2024

Tobacco stems constitute a large amount of waste biomass generated during tobacco production, and their recycling is of great significance to the environment and the conservation of resources. In this study, an efficient, inexpensive, and less toxic strategy is reported for recycling waste tobacco stem, wherein the spherical tobacco stem nanocellulose (STsN) with a size of 10 to 100 nm was prepared from waste stems using a NaOH/urea/thiourea aqueous system. The morphology of STsN was characterized using scanning electron microscopy. The crystal structure of STsN was determined using X-ray diffractometry. The nanocellulose exhibited the crystal structure of cellulose II. Fourier-transform infrared spectra of the STsN indicated that STsN retained the typical chemical structure of cellulose. The thermal properties of STsN were investigated by thermogravimetry. It is concluded that the STsN had better thermal stability than cellulose. The product has potential for practical application with high thermal stability requirements, such as transistors and batteries.
Use of scrap particleboard to produce recycled particleboard
Authors: Luo Peng , Yang Chuanmin , He Yan , Wang Tao
Published: May 2024

Recycling is presently the most environmentally friendly approach that deals with wood waste. Each year a huge amount of particleboard completes its service life and needs to be disposed of or recycled. Scrap particleboard has the potential to be reused as raw material for particleboard production. A crucial step for producing particleboards using scrap particleboards is to break down urea-formaldehyde (UF) resins in the scrap particleboards to obtain separated particles. In this study, liquid hot water (LHW) pretreatment was employed to decompose the UF resins to detach and recover wood particles from the scrap particleboards. The recovered wood particles and fresh industrial wood particles in different proportions were used as the raw material for the particleboard. The physical and mechanical properties of the recycled particleboards were evaluated. The modulus of rupture (MOR), modulus of elasticity (MOE), and internal bond (IB) of the recycled particleboards were lower than those of the particleboards made with fresh wood particles. However, the 2 h thickness swelling (TS) of the recycled particleboards was better than that of the fresh particleboards, indicating that the recycled particleboards were more dimensionally stable. The mechanical properties of the particleboards containing up to 40% recycled wood particles met the minimum Chinese National Standard requirements for general-purpose particleboards. Conclusively, scrap wood particleboards could be utilized as raw material in particleboard production.
Preferences in Clinical Care of Individuals With Differences of Sex Development
Authors: Avanceña Anton L.V. , Rose Angela M. , Gardner Melissa D. , Rutter Meilan M. , Schafer-Kalkhoff Tara , Suorsa-Johnson Kristina I. , van Leeuwen Kathleen D. , Weidler Erica M. , Gebremariam Acham , Sandberg David E. , Prosser Lisa A.
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVES

To identify the most important attributes related to the process of achieving, and outcomes associated with, successful care for differences of sex development (DSD).

METHODS

We developed a best–worst scaling survey administered to 520 DSD stakeholders, including individuals or family members of those with DSD, health care specialists, and patient support and advocacy representatives. Fourteen process-related attributes and 16 outcome-related attributes were identified through qualitative research. We estimated relative importance scores and coefficients from regression analysis to understand the relative importance of attributes and conducted latent class analysis to explore heterogeneity in preferences.

RESULTS

The 3 most important process attributes were (1) good communication between care team and patient/family, (2) care team educated patient/family about condition, and (3) care team incorporates the values of patient/family. The 3 most important outcome attributes were (1) patient satisfaction, (2) patient mental health, and (3) treatment maintains physical health. Latent class analyses showed that respondents had heterogeneous preferences. For process-related attributes, we identified 3 respondent groups: “Patient autonomy and support” (46% of respondents), “Education and care transitions” (18%), and “Shared decision-making” (36%). For outcome-related attributes, we identified 2 respondent groups: “Preserving function and appearance” (59% of respondents) and “Patient health and satisfaction” (41%).

CONCLUSIONS

Outcomes such as patient satisfaction and health were the most important outcome attributes, and good communication and education from the care team were the most important process attributes. Respondents expressed heterogeneous preferences for selected DSD care attributes that providers should consider to improve satisfaction with and quality of DSD care.
Opinión Pública sobre las Transferencias Monetarias para Niños, Niñas y Adolescentes en Guatemala
Authors: Blofield Merike , Martínez Franzoni Juliana , Oviedo Carballo Luis Ángel
Published: May 2024

La pobreza infantil es un reto multidimensional y décadas de evidencia demuestran que el acceso a las transferencias monetarias puede proveer una protección simple y eficaz contra la pobreza, especialmente la extrema. Una encuesta telefónica representativa a nivel nacional realizada en Guatemala en mayo del 2022 indica un apoyo muy elevado (88 %) a un programa de transferencias monetarias dirigido a niños, niñas y adolescentes. Además, el 90 % está a favor de fijar el valor de las transferencias en al menos la canasta básica de alimentos. Finalmente, una leve mayoría (casi el 52 %) apoya extender las transferencias al menos a todos los niños y las niñas en pobreza, mientras que el 46 % indica restringir el programa a quienes se encuentran en extrema pobreza
Opinión Pública sobre las Transferencias Monetarias para Niños, Niñas y Adolescentes en México
Authors: Blofield Merike , Martínez Franzoni Juliana , Borges Fabián
Published: May 2024

La pobreza infantil es un reto multidimensional y décadas de evidencia demuestran que el acceso a transferencias monetarias periódicas puede proveer una protección sencilla y eficaz contra la pobreza, especialmente la pobreza extrema. En este marco es sorprendente lo poco que se sabe acerca de cómo las percibe la opinión pública, tanto en México como en América Latina en general. Como parte de un estudio comparado de la opinión pública relativa a la protección social en siete países latinoamericanos, una encuesta telefónica representativa a nivel nacional en México realizada en mayo del 2022 indica que los programas de transferencias monetarias dirigido a niños, niñas y adolescentes tienen un apoyo muy elevado (90 %). Además, 96 % apoya fijar el valor de las transferencias en al menos la canasta básica de alimentos. Finalmente, una mayoría (56 %) incluiría al menos a todos los niños, niñas y adolescentes en situación de pobreza en las transferencias, mientras 43 % apoya restringir el programa a quienes se encuentran en pobreza extrema.
The Institute for Signifying Scriptures Presents
Authors: Linn Trevor
Published: May 2024

The Conference fills you in on the meetings you missed or what you have to look forward to at upcoming events. The Institute for Signifying Scriptures is reaching some major milestones, and Editorial Assistant Trevor Linn brings you up to speed about the institute’s history and approaching annual meeting.
Dealing with the Media Circus
Authors: Boyer Paul
Published: May 2024

In The Archive, we republish an article that, in hindsight, may have been ahead of its time with its prescience. Our pull for this issue is a reflection by the late Paul Boyer (1935-2012) from 1998 on what it is like to work with the media in the wake of the Heavens Gate suicides because they presume his work in contemporary American belief in biblical prophecy makes him a “cult expert.” This piece was originally published in the April 18, 1997 issue of The Chronicle of Higher Education and Bulletin for the Study of Religion 27.1 (1998).
Acute pain syndromes in injuries to the nerves and plexuses of the limbs
Authors: Dubenko Olga , Tovazhnyanska Olena , Stepanchenko Kostiantyn , Zavalna Olena , Florikian Vartanush
Published: May 2024

Injuries of peripheral nerves and plexuses cause serious disorders in the affected limbs. Unfortunately, the frequency of nerve injuries and limb plexuses is steadily increasing in our country, due to hostilities, which emphasizes the extreme relevance of this pathology.
The aim of the review is to consider the current data on pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and treatment of acute pain syndromes in patients with injuries of peripheral nerves and limb plexuses.
Materials and methods. Scientific databases PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Cochrane Library, as well as the materials of the International Association for the study of pain were used to search for sources of research information. The main studies were found in Pubmed, Google Scholar and materials of the International Association for the study of pain and made up 191 sources of information, 150 of which were excluded from the review due to insufficient data on pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical manifestations, and treatment of pain syndromes in patients with damage to the nerves and plexuses of the limbs, thus 41 sources of information formed the basis of the review.
Results: Brachial plexus and peripheral nerve injuries can be associated with any combination of nociceptive, neuropathic, phantom limb pain, and even complex regional pain syndromes. Acute neuropathic pain is an under-recognized condition, often difficult to treat and can progress to persistent pain and disability. Neuropathic pain develops because the main damage affects the somatosensory system. It is caused by peripheral nerve damage and associated changes in the central nervous system. The first line of pharmacological treatment for neuropathic pain according to current guidelines is anticonvulsant drugs that affect neuronal calcium channels, as well as tri- and tetracyclic antidepressants and selective serotonin/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors.
Conclusions: At the current stage, progress has been made in understanding the mechanisms of development of the pathological condition and in the development of therapeutic approaches, however, the chronicity of pain syndrome in patients with damage to the nerves and plexuses of the limbs is still high, which requires further research to develop complex pathogenetic therapy and better understanding of the mechanisms pain in this category of patients
Development and validation of a method for simultaneous quantitative determination of albendazole and praziquantel in coated tablets “AP-helmin”
Authors: Semchenko Kateryna , Vyshnevska Liliia , Iakovenko Volodymyr , Kovalova Tetyana , Marchenko Mykhailo , Zuikina Yelizaveta , Marchenko Yana
Published: May 2024

Adapting modern methods of quantitative analysis of active substances in their joint content in the dosage form and validating them is an integral process of pharmaceutical development. We have developed a drug in the form of coated tablets for the treatment of helminthiases of the digestive system in adults. A feature of this drug is the composition of the API of albendazole and praziquantel in a ratio of 1:4.
The aim of this research is to develop methodology for quantitative analysis of both substances by the method of liquid chromatography, determination of their possible mutual influence on the process, as well as validation of the proposed methods.
Materials and methods. To meet the research's set purpose, the following tasks were identified: choosing the most rational method for the quantitative determination of albendazole and praziquantel; confirming the absence of the mutual influence of APIs on the results obtained; and validating the selected methods of albendazole and praziquantel analysis.
Object of the research conducted included coated tablets “AP-helmin”, series 1-5.2021; pharmacopoeial standard sample (PSS) of albendazole, and PSS praziquantel. Quantitative determination of albendazole and praziquantel was conducted according to SPU, method 2.2.29.
Results. The article describes the conditions and stages of the quantitative determination of albendazole and praziquantel and the main indicators of method validation.
Conclusions. It was proven that quantification with the liquid chromatography method of both substances is validated, and the substances do not affect each other's analysis in the coated tablets "AP-helmin" following the project of QCM for this drug. All calculated parameters meet the required validation criteria
Two masterful alternative spectrophotometric methods for the determination of ramipril in tablets
Authors: Typlynska Kateryna , Horyn Mariana , Kucher Tetyana , Kryskiw Liubomyr , Logoyda Liliya
Published: May 2024

The aim of the work was to develop two simple, rapid, economic, alternative spectrophotometric methods for the determination of ramipril in tablets based on the reaction with sulfonephthalein dyes (bromphenol blue (BPB) and cresol red (CR)).
Materials and methods. Analytical instrumentation: Shimadzu UV-1800 double beam UV-VIS spectrophotometer (Japan) with attached UV-Probe ver. 2.62 software, RAD WAG AS 200/C precise analytical balance (Poland). Ramipril (purity ≥98 % (HPLC)) was purchased from AARTI Industries Limited (India). Ramipril tablets 5 mg and 10 mg were purchased from a local pharmacy.
Results and discussion. Two spectrophotometric methods for the determination of ramipril in tablets have been developed. We have tested various sulfophthalein dyes (BPB, bromocresol green, bromthymol blue, thymol blue, CR) in order to choose the optimal for the method development. According to the results of the experimental studies, we chose BPB and CR as reagents, and the solvent was acetonitrile for both methods. The optimal conditions for the quantitative determination of ramipril in tabletsy using BPB were established: dye concentration - 2.35×10-4 mol/L, volume of BPB solution – 1.0 ml, without heating, wavelength – 598 nm, reaction time – 5 min, temperature of the solution – 25 °C. The optimal conditions for the quantitative determination of ramipril in tabletsusing CR were established: dye 1.33×10-4 mol/L, volume of CR solution – 1.0 ml, without heating, wavelength – 395 nm, reaction time – 5 min, temperature of the solution – 25 °C. The spectrophotometric method by using BPB was linear in the concentration range of 1.99-5.96 µg/mL, LOD – 0.20 µg/mL, LOQ – 0.60 µg/mL. The spectrophotometric method using CR was linear in the concentration range of 0.42-5.44 µg/mL, LOD – 0.10 µg/mL, and LOQ – 0.36 µg/mL. The results of the study on robustness, accuracy, and precision were within the acceptance criteria. The results of studying the «greenness» of both methods indicate an excellent «green» analysis.Conclusions. Developed methods can be used as an alternative method for the routine analysis of ramipril tablets
Modelling of the human lumbar vertebromotor segment: analysis of scientific researches
Authors:   Perm National Research Polytechnic University, Khoroshev Denis , Ustyuzhantsev Nikolai ,   Perm State Medical University named after Academician E.A. Wagner, Ilyalov Oleg , Nyashin Yuriy ,   Perm National Research Polytechnic University
Published: May 2024

Pain in the lumbar spine is a disease that affects a significant part of society and has an important impact on the life quality and working capacity of the world's population. The fight against this disease takes a lot of money from most of the developed countries of the world. Osteoporosis, herniated disc, kidney disease in most cases are the first cause of low back pain and this is not the whole list. It is well known that the intervertebral disc L4–L5 is a weak link in the lumbar region, so the need and relevance of the modelling problem of the lumbar vertebromotor segment already exists. A comprehensive analysis of studies for the period from 2003 to 2019 year was performed. The work purpose is to analyze most of the existing approaches to modelling the lumbar vertebromotor segment, the advantages and disadvantages of models and possible options for processing the segment geometric shape. The study focuses on such parameters as the influence of age and gender on the model, the choice of computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging data, options for model validation, the constitutive relations choice, and the geometric shape of all parts of the model. Each of the parts of the lumbar vertebromotor segment is presented: the vertebra, the pulpous nucleus, the fibrous ring, the cartilage endplate and bone endplate, the facet joint and seven types of ligaments.
Numerical analysis of strength for an endoprosthesis made of a material with graded lattice structures
Authors:   Peter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University, Sufiyarov Vadim , Orlov Aleksey , Popovich Anatoliy ,   Peter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University, Chukovenkova Mariya , Soklakov Aleksandr , Mikhalyuk Dmitriy ,   JSC “Center of Engineering Physics Simulation and Analysis”
Published: May 2024

The most common causes of conducting a hip revision surgery after total hip replacement are aseptic loosening (aseptic instability) of the endoprosthesis, bone destruction as a result of contact with the endoprosthesis, and a periprosthetic fracture. These are the effects of load transfer to the bone tissue in arthroplasty resulting due to the difference in stiffness of the endoprosthesis and the bone. Titanium alloy is widely used in endoprostheses manufacturing because of its high biocompatibility, good wear properties, and corrosion resistance, but such endoprostheses are stiffer than the femur. These problems have aroused interest in searching for the best materials and topology for a femoral implant. Nowadays, additive technology is of great interest as it enables to create materials with graded density. These materials consist of multiple lattice structures with variable parameters and topology. By varying the parameters of lattice structures, one can adjust the mechanical properties of the material as required. These materials find their application in hip endoprostheses manufacturing, allowing to adjust the parameters of the lattice structures and deliver a product with femur-like mechanical properties. The porous structure also ensures bone tissue ingrowth into the prosthesis. The authors designed and simulated an endoprosthesis made of graded density lattice structures with femur-like mechanical properties. Using a numerical simulation software ANSYS Mechanical, authors determined the effect of the topology on the structural behavior of the femur and defined the endoprosthesis-femur combined performance under various load cases.
Covid-19: optimization of respiratory biomechanics by aerosol pus solvent
Authors:   Izhevsk State Medical Academy, Urakov Aleksandr ,   Institute of Mechanics of Udmurt Federal Research Center of the Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of  Sciences, Urakova Natalya ,   Izhevsk State Medical Academy
Published: May 2024

Feature of the course of the disease caused by coronavirus is the development of severe non-specific pneumonia, which disrupts gas exchange in the respiratory system and causes hypoxia. To save the life of patients in the critical stage of non-specific pneumonia, it is necessary to eliminate hypoxia. For this purpose, forced mechanical ventilation of the lungs using breathing gases enriched with oxygen is widely used. However, increasing the pressure, volume, and concentration of oxygen gas in the inhaled air does not always eliminate hypoxia in patients with COVID-19. The fact is that in this disease, the cause of the suffocation symptom is thick mucus and pus that fill the lumen of the bronchi. It is the mucus and pus that clog the bronchi that do not allow restoring airiness of the lungs, gas exchange and blood oxygenation in non-specific pneumonia. In this regard, it is the obstruction of the bronchi caused by mucus and pus that causes the critical stage of the disease in non-specific pneumonia caused by coronavirus. In these conditions, due to the lack of mucolytic aerosol for inhalation that would effectively dissolve thick mucus and thick pus, there is nothing left to save the patient's life but to eliminate hypoxia using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. However, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is a very expensive and very dangerous method of treatment, which itself causes the death of almost half of patients. In this regard, to increase the effectiveness of forced lung ventilation, it is proposed to use a special aerosol that, when inhaled, can quickly dissolve mucus and pus in the bronchi and remove them outside. The formulation of such an aerosol is given and an example of its effectiveness in obstructive bronchitis is described.
Can collateral flow index have an influence on restenosis growth dynamics?
Authors:   National Center for Cognitive Technologies of ITMO University, Shramko Oleg , Svitenkov Andrey ,   National Center for Cognitive Technologies of ITMO University, Zun Pavel ,   Computational Science Lab of University of Amsterdam
Published: May 2024

Collateral blood vessels have been statistically linked to a higher probability of repeat stenosis, but these data are not conclusive. Therefore, the aim of this research is to study a possible hydrodynamic pathway for stenosed coronary arteries for two scenarios: in absence of collaterals and in presence of collaterals with different collateral flow indices. For this in this study, we utilised an analytical model and a numerical model for studying this pathway. First, we performed an analytical calculation for the arterial bifurcation with a stenosis and a collateral vessel. Then, we carried out a numerical calculation using an existing numerical model for the same topology. Thus, we obtained the data characterizing the dependence of the wall shear stress on the stenosis degree for various Y-topology cases (without collaterals, and with different collateral flow indices). Then, based on the numerical model, we calculated the dependence of the wall shear stress on the stenosis degree for the physiology-based left coronary artery topology (without collaterals, and with different collateral flow indices). Moreover, to choose the stenosis location to study in the model, we used stent placement frequency statistics, based on data accumulated in clinical practice. As a result, analysis of the obtained data showed that for the structures studied in this work, collateral flow index does not affect the dynamics of restenosis. Thereby, the presence of collateral vessels is unlikely to have an influence on restenosis growth dynamics, and the link is likely purely statistical or follows a different pathway.
Installation for determining the direction, velocity and time of passage of an aerosol cloud formed during coughing and sneezing: work results (as part of the covid-19 program)
Authors:   National Research Moscow State University of Civil Engineering, Parfentieva Natalia , Parfentiev Nikolay ,   All-Russian Research Institute of Optical and Physical Measurements
Published: May 2024

It is recognized that Covid-19 is mainly transmitted by airborne droplets. It is especially dangerous to sneeze and cough the patient, when together with a jet of air, moving at a high speed (when sneezing up to 150 km/h), droplets of liquid containing viruses fly out. It is known that even with a loud conversation the patient can release up to 1000 drops in the air with particles of a new type of coronavirus, especially coughing and sneezing carrier of the virus. There is a lack of experimental data to create physical and numerical models describing these processes and calculate the concentration of aerosol particles. The paper proposes an installation to determine the distribution of velocities and deformations in the time of the aerosol cloud that occurs when coughing and sneezing, as well as preliminary results of the first cycle of experiments at this installation. Based on the results, recommendations are made to counter the spread of infection. The purpose of these studies is to determine the direction and speed of the cloud carrying the droplets with the virus, as well as the time of its passage past potential recipients. Based on these data, it will be possible to estimate the received dose of infection and the dependence of this dose on the distance between the source and the potential victim. The study does not claim to be complete, which can be achieved by studying large groups of subjects, but after its completion it can serve as a source material for close to reality digital models of infection transmission. The work also contains preliminary results of the first cycle of experiments at this facility. On the basis of the results obtained, practical recommendations are given to counteract the spread of infection.
Influence of nonlinearity of the elastic properties of the cornea on its deformation when loading the eye with a Schiøtz tonometer
Authors:   Moscow State Lomonosov University, Moiseeva Irina , Stein Alexander ,   Moscow State Lomonosov University
Published: May 2024

The effective model previously developed by the authors for a nonlinear elastic cornea of the eye is applied to the study of the cornea stress-strain state when loaded with a concave stamp and the Schiøtz tonometer, the structure composed of independently moving concave stamp and rod (plunger). It is shown that in both cases the condition of geometrical smallness of strains is satisfied. Allowance for nonlinearity leads to a significant increase in the minimum values of tensile stresses: the possibility of the appearance of compressive stresses becomes less likely. The effect of nonlinearity on the relationship between the directly measured characteristic of corneal deformation, the depth of the impression produced on the cornea by the plunger, and the pressure under the tonometer (tonometric pressure) is studied. It turned out that at sufficiently high tonometric pressures, nonlinearity practically does not affect this dependence; however, neglecting the nonlinearity leads to a noticeable underestimation of the tonometric pressure from the impression depth for low pressures (below 20–25 mm Hg). This is the case regardless of the stiffness of the cornea. Allowance for nonlinearity, as well as an increase in stiffness, slightly shifts the pressure–depth curve towards the dependence that is commonly used in the processing of measurement results. This convergence is more noticeable for the lighter plunger weight.
On characteristic identification for prestressed human skin
Authors:   Southern Federal University, Bogachev Ivan , Nedin Rostislav ,   Southern Federal University
Published: May 2024

In the paper, we present a model of skin in the form of viscoelastic layer-like structure that is inhomogeneous in thickness and consists in turn of three layers: subcutaneous fat, dermis and epidermis. We also assume the presence of an inhomogeneous uniaxial prestress in the skin layer arisen as a result of relaxation after the skin lifting (tightening) surgery procedure. We formulate the problem on the basis of the general problem statement on steady-state vibrations of an inhomogeneous body, taking into account the initial stress-strain state. Using the correspondence principle, the elastic moduli in the problem statement are replaced by complex analogs corresponding to the model of a standard viscoelastic body. The inverse problem is to determine the mechanical characteristics (complex analogs of the Lame parameters) and prestress using the data on the acoustic response for a periodic probing non-invasive effect on the layer surface. By using the Fourier transform in the longitudinal coordinate, we reduce the original problem to solving a number of simpler problems in transforms. Based on the combination of different loading modes, we present a two-stage scheme for identifying mechanical properties and prestress. Within this scheme, at the first stage, complex analogs of the Lame parameters are successively determined using the iterative approach and the Tikhonov regularization method. At the second stage, by using the functions found at the first stage, prestresses are determined using the proposed projection technique. We illustrate the approach developed to the considered skin integument problem by performing computational experiments showing the efficiency of the techniques proposed in the ranges corresponding to the real values of the sought-for parameters. Additionally, we provide some recommendations on the choice of frequency ranges for the best identification at each stage.
Elementos da paternidade envolvida no período gestacional: revisão de escopo
Authors: Alvarenga Willyane de Andrade , Sousa Maria da Conceição Silva Castro , Sales Joice Kelly Lima de , Neris Rhyquelle Rhibna , DeMontigny Francine , Nascimento Lucila Castanheira
Published: May 2024

RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar na literatura e sintetizar os elementos e as características da paternidade envolvida durante a gestação. Método: Scoping review que utilizou o guia PRISMA-ScR para reportar esta revisão. Buscas foram realizadas nas bases PubMed, CINAHL, PsycInfo, LILACS e Scopus. Os mecanismos de busca do Google e sites de órgãos de saúde pública auxiliaram nas buscas na literatura cinzenta e o software Rayyan na triagem dos estudos. Resultados: Foram capturados 406 artigos, dos quais 16 compuseram a amostra final. Cinco elementos compõem uma paternidade envolvida: sentir-se pai, ser provedor e protetor, ser parceiro e participativo na gravidez, participar das consultas de pré-natal e sentir-se preparado para cuidar do bebê. Conclusão: O pai deseja estar envolvido nos cuidados pré-natais, porém sente-se excluído deste processo. Políticas públicas que estimulem o envolvimento paterno e a capacitação de profissionais de saúde para melhor acolher e promover o envolvimento paterno são de suma importância.
Dificuldade de aprendizagem de crianças escolares: percepções dos profissionais da saúde e da educação
Authors: Rumor Pamela Camila Fernandes , Durand Michelle Kuntz , Souza Jeane Barros de , Souza Janaina Medeiros de , Magagnin Adriana Bitencourt , Heidemann Ivonete Teresinha Schülter Buss
Published: May 2024

RESUMO Objetivos: conhecer as percepções dos profissionais da saúde e da educação acerca da dificuldade de aprendizagem de crianças da rede pública de ensino. Métodos: pesquisa qualitativa, do tipo ação participante, articulada ao Itinerário de Pesquisa de Paulo Freire. Participaram 45 profissionais, por meio de entrevistas e um Círculo de Cultura Virtual. A análise desenvolveu-se na leitura cuidadosa, reflexão e interpretação dos temas destacados. Resultados: os profissionais dialogaram sobre a (in)visibilidade da dificuldade de aprendizagem, as estratégias e os recursos do setor educacional e a busca por resolutividade no setor saúde. Verificou-se que a produção das queixas relacionadas à aprendizagem escolar está atribuída predominantemente como problema individual da criança ou de sua família, isentando a instituição educacional desse processo. Considerações Finais: é premente maior investimento em políticas de formação e aperfeiçoamento dos profissionais para propiciar a articulação entre os setores, com vistas a superar modelos pedagógicos e de saúde ultrapassados.
Mothers’ perception of the care of newborn in the home environment
Authors: Hammel Gina de Souza Castro , Simas Laura Tais Loureiro , Rodrigues Junior Luiz Fernando , Zamberlan Claudia , Lomba Lurdes , Backes Dirce Stein
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT Objectives: to identify mothers’ perceptions about caring for newborns in the home environment, from the perspective of complexity thinking. Methods: qualitative, exploratory and descriptive research, carried out between November/2022 and February/2023. Data were collected through individual interviews with 21 mothers from southern Brazil who cared for newborns at home and analyzed using the thematic analysis technique. Results: the four thematic axes resulting from the data analysis: Living amidst order and disorder; embracing singularities; dealing with the certain and the uncertain; support network in the (re)organizing process demonstrate that the mother caring for a newborn in their home environment experiences a distinct and plural adaptive process, which must be welcomed and understood by health professionals who work within the family environment. Final Considerations: the care of newborns in a home environment, in the perception of mothers, requires differentiated attention and a formal or informal support network that considers the unique specificities of each woman/mother in the personal, family and social spheres. Therefore, in addition to the social support network, it is important to rethink home intervention approaches.
Propiedades psicométricas de la versión chilena del cuestionario de calidad de vida para mieloma múltiple
Authors: Lorca Luz Alejandra , Sacomori Cinara , Peña Camila , Barrera Claudia , Salazar Melissa , Leão Ivana , Valladares Ximena , Rojas Christine
Published: May 2024

RESUMEN Objetivos: Evaluar consistencia interna y validez de constructo del QLQ-MY20 para valoración de calidad de vida en sobrevivientes de mieloma múltiple en Chile. Métodos: Estudio transversal, realizado entre marzo 2020 y diciembre 2022. Participaron 118 personas de dos hospitales públicos. Se utilizaron los cuestionarios QLQ-C30 y QLQ-MY20. Fueron evaluadas la consistencia interna con alfa de Cronbach (α) y validez de constructo mediante pruebas de hipótesis (Mann Whitney y correlación de Spearman). Resultados: El promedio de edad de los participantes era 67,2 (DE=9,2) años. Consistencia interna para escala completa (α=0,779), dimensión “síntomas de la enfermedad” (α=0,671), dimensión “efectos secundarios de los tratamientos” (α=0,538) y dimensión “perspectiva de futuro” (α=0,670). Se comprobaron cuatro de las cinco hipótesis de la validez de constructo: presentaron más síntomas las mujeres, personas con peor performance estatus, con dolor y con peor fatiga. Conclusiones: La versión chilena del QLQ-MY20 presenta adecuada consistencia interna y validez de constructo.
Nursing interventions to empower the family caregiver of person with lower limb amputation: scoping review
Authors: Rodrigues Diana Fonseca , Castanheira Fabiana Sofia Ferreira Machado , Carvalho António Luís Rodrigues Faria de , Pinto Cristina Maria Correia Barroso
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT Objectives: to map nursing interventions that empower the Family caregiver of the person with lower limb amputation for is role. Methods: scoping review guided by Joanna Briggs Institute methodology conducted in different databases (including gray literature). Results: six studies published between 2009 and 2021 were included. Interventions of counselling and support for patients and family; peer support interventions performed by a certified pair; involvement of caregivers or family members in support groups; and key interventions for patient and family caregiver psychological balance. Two studies discussed the importance of caregiver and amputee training and development of coping skills. Another study recommended Interventions of informative support for caregivers regarding care for the amputee and adaptation to home. Conclusions: results of this review allow the identification of recommendations (guidelines) for practice and recommendations/suggestions for interventions according with identified needs of family caregivers of patients with lower limb amputation.
Adherence to Covid-19 vaccination during the pandemic: the influence of fake news
Authors: Borges Luana Cristina Roberto , Marcon Sonia Silva , Brito Gabrielly Segatto , Terabe Miriam , Pleutim Nathalia Ivulic , Mendes Ana Heloisa , Teston Elen Ferraz
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT Objectives: to understand how fake news has influenced adherence to Covid-19 immunization, from the perspective of health professionals. Methods: a qualitative, descriptive-exploratory study was conducted in Campo Grande - MS. Twenty nursing professionals working in vaccine rooms or managing immunobiologicals participated through semi-structured interviews. The interviews were audio-recorded, fully transcribed, and subjected to thematic content analysis. Results: two categories emerged in which the professionals highlighted an increase in vaccine hesitancy among the population, influenced by fake news and denialist actions, which negatively interfered with the population’s trust in vaccines and in the professionals administering them. Final Considerations: concerns about vaccine safety and denialist actions by authorities and media outlets can contribute to the phenomenon of non-vaccination. The valorization of science, the promotion of educational actions, and raising public awareness about immunization were presented as strategies to increase vaccine coverage
Adesão à vacinação contra a Covid-19 durante a pandemia: influência de fake news
Authors: Borges Luana Cristina Roberto , Marcon Sonia Silva , Brito Gabrielly Segatto , Terabe Miriam , Pleutim Nathalia Ivulic , Mendes Ana Heloisa , Teston Elen Ferraz
Published: May 2024

RESUMO Objetivoss: apreender como as fake news influenciaram na adesão à imunização contra a Covid-19, na perspectiva dos profissionais de saúde. Métodos: estudo qualitativo, descritivo-exploratório, realizado em Campo Grande – MS. Participaram 20 profissionais de enfermagem atuantes em sala de vacina ou gestão de imunobiológicos, por meio de entrevista semiestruturada. As entrevistas foram audiogravadas, transcritas na íntegra e submetidas à análise de conteúdo, na modalidade temática. Resultados: emergiram duas categorias nas quais os profissionais destacaram o aumento da hesitação vacinal por parte da população, a influência das fake news e de ações negacionistas que interferiram negativamente na confiança da população nas vacinas e nos profissionais que as aplicam. Considerações Finais: questionamentos em relação à segurança vacinal e ações negacionistas realizadas por autoridades e veículos midiáticos podem gerar o fenômeno da não vacinação. A valorização da ciência, a promoção de ações de educação e a conscientização populacional quanto à imunização foram apresentadas como estratégias para aumento da cobertura vacinal.