bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of life, neuro-humoral status and physical performance in adolescents with sinus tachycardia
Authors: Іvanko O. H. , Tovma A. V. , Solianyk O. V. , Deineha V. A. , Patsera M. V. , Pashchenko I. V. , Pidkova V. Ya.
Published: July 2024

The variety of causes, conditions and prognosis of sinus tachycardia (ST) had determined the study examining the quality of life, neurohumoral status as well as ST course in 17-year-old adolescents compared to their peers without heart rhythm disorders.
The aim was to study neurohumoral status, quality of life and physical performance in adolescents of both sexes, aged 17 years with diagnosed ST during preventive examination using 24-hour ECG monitoring.
Materials and methods. In the open prospective study, 165 adolescents (74 boys and 91 girls) with a mean age of 17.5 ± 0.5 years were enrolled. 24-hour ECG monitoring showed increased heart rate >90 bpm in 12 boys and 19 girls considered themselves healthy. All the children were examined according to a program including 24-hour blood pressure monitoring, heart rate variability, serum concentrations of the main hormones, endothelin and copeptin. Health-related quality of life was measured by the SF-36 questionnaire. A physical work capacity test (PWC170) on a bicycle ergometer was evaluated in an 8-month physical rehabilitation program.
Results. Adolescents of both sexes with ST were hypersympathicotonic with humoral dysregulation of the sinoatrial node, grade I arterial hypertension, elevated blood levels of estradiol and osteocalcin and low renin in females. ST in adolescents was associated with reduced physical performance, the restoration of which was accompanied by ST termination.
Conclusions. The examination of the 165 adolescents with the mean age of 17.5 years who considered themselves healthy has revealed 12 (16.6 %) males and 19 (22.9 %) females with ST and mean 24-hour heart rate >90 bpm. The children have been clinically diagnosed with inappropriate ST based on international classification, that were inadequate to healthy state. ST was accompanied by hypersympathicotonic type of sinoatrial node humoral dysregulation, grade I arterial hypertension in boys, abnormal pubertal development in girls with elevated blood levels of total estradiol and osteocalcin and low free renin levels, lowered levels of quality of life on role functioning of the SF-36 questionnaire. Adolescents with ST had lower performance in the PWC170 tests. The completion of the 8-week physical rehabilitation program via stationary cycling exercises has resulted in improved physical performance based on the PWC170 test from baseline levels of 8.6 ± 1.9 kgm/min per kg body weight to 12.8 ± 2.1 kgm /min per kg in girls (p = 0.08) and from 13.2 ± 1.5 kgm/min to 15.9 ± 1.6 kgm/min per kg body weight in boys (p > 0.1), that was accompanied by ST termination.
Joanna Kic-Drgas / Violeta Jurkovič. Paths of purpose. A journey into LSP teacher development. Göttingen: V&R unipress. 2024. Pp. 150
Authors: Jaszczyk-Grzyb Magdalena
Published: July 2024

Review: Joanna Kic-Drgas / Violeta Jurkovič. Paths of purpose. A journey into LSP teacher development. Göttingen: V&R unipress. 2024. Pp. 150
Irregular loci in the Emerton–Gee stack for GL2
Authors: Bellovin Rebecca , Borade Neelima , Hilado Anton , Kansal Kalyani , Lee Heejong , Levin Brandon , Savitt David , Wiersema Hanneke
Published: July 2024

Let

K
/

Q
p

K/\mathbf{Q}_{p}

be unramified.
Inside the Emerton–Gee stack

X
2

\mathcal{X}_{2}

, one can consider the locus of two-dimensional mod 𝑝 representations of

Gal
⁢

(

K
̄

/
K

)

\mathrm{Gal}(\overline{K}/K)

having a crystalline lift with specified Hodge–Tate weights.
We study the case where the Hodge–Tate weights are irregular, which is an analogue for Galois representations of the partial weight one condition for Hilbert modular forms.
We prove that if the gap between each pair of weights is bounded by 𝑝 (the irregular analogue of a Serre weight), then this locus is irreducible.
We also establish various inclusion relations between these loci.
First-principles calculations of the mechanical properties of Mg2Si intermetallic via ternary elements doping
Authors: Hu Hai , Liu Tinging , Li Zhendong , Wang Xu , Wang Yanbiao , Li Shaorong
Published: July 2024

Site preference, structural stability and mechanical properties of Mg2Si doped by ternary elements were studied by first-principles calculation. Formation enthalpies show that light element impurity Al and rare earth elements Sc and Y tend to occupy the Mg site, while transition element Cu has a preference for the Si site. Shear modulus to bulk modulus ratio (G/B), Poisson’s ratio ν and Cauchy pressure show that the ductility of Mg2Si is improved for ternary element addition. The introduced parameter of ductility factor D indicates that the enhanced dislocation emission but suppressed micro-crack propagation is the key to enhancing ductility. Electronic structure indicates the brittleness is due to the strong covalent interaction between Mg-2p and Si-3p (Mg-3s and Si-3p/3s). While, with the incorporation of alloying elements, abundant electrons are injected into the matrix Mg2Si. Thereby, the covalent interaction is effectively suppressed and the ductility is improved.
The semiotics of red-tagging: hateful affects against the community pantry movement
Authors: Buso Nelson Mangaldan
Published: July 2024

This study demonstrates how a red-tagging post on the community pantry movement in the Philippines performs its affective work of hate through the use of diverse modes of meaning-making (composition, representation, and language). It does so by employing a semiotic approach that integrates a multimodal framework that is attentive to materiality and an affective approach to discourse studies. The analysis traces and reveals different affective affordances of the semiotic resources in the chosen red-tagging post. Overall, the study sheds light on how red-tagging practices – in this case, in the form of a poster/Facebook post – are strategically semioticized, thus contributing to a larger political project of constructing an affective discourse of hate against the community pantry movement.
High-Intensity Running During International Male Field Hockey Involves Frequent Changes of Direction and Repeated Accelerations but Seldom Reaches Sprint Velocities
Authors: Goods Paul S.R. , Appleby Brendyn , Scott Brendan R. , Peeling Peter , Galna Brook
Published: July 2024

Goods, PS, Appleby, B, Scott, BR, Peeling, P, and Galna, B. High-intensity running during international male field hockey involves frequent changes of direction and repeated accelerations but seldom reaches sprint velocities. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2024—The aim of this investigation was to quantify the characteristics of high-intensity running in international male field hockey. Player movement data were collected through wearable player tracking devices across 3 tournaments (17 matches) from 27 members of the Australian male field hockey team (totaling 266 player matches). Active duration (minute), high-intensity efforts (>2.5 m·s−2 for >1 second), repeated high-intensity efforts (≥3 efforts with ≤45-second recovery between efforts), and sprints (>7 m·s−1) were extracted and aggregated for each player match. The duration, distance, mean and peak speed, mean change of direction and straightness for each high-intensity effort, and peak deceleration at the conclusion of each effort were calculated. Mixed-effects models were used to estimate the mean for each outcome (fixed effect), with random intercepts modeled for player and match. On average, players completed 42.2 high-intensity efforts and 2.1 sprints per match. High-intensity efforts were short (3.61 seconds, 12.9 m), failed to reach high velocities (average peak velocity: 4.8 m·s−1), and involved frequent changes of direction (56% of efforts were not straight). There were 4.7 bouts of repeated high-intensity efforts per player, per match (comprising 3.8 efforts, with 3.53 seconds per effort separated by 16.2-second recovery). Last, we also found that 29% of high-intensity efforts involved a high-speed deceleration (>3.5 m·s−2), and these occurred frequently when in conjunction with a >45° (86%) or >90° (89%) change of direction. We recommend practitioners focus on developing players' ability to repeatedly accelerate, decelerate, and change direction over short distances and adopt testing and monitoring programs that assess these qualities.
Validity and Reliability of the Power Slap Board as an Application to Measure Upper Body Vertical Pulling Power for Female Water Polo Players
Authors: Lim Charmaine , Wee Jericho , Lee Melissa , Lim Sean , Leow Shina
Published: July 2024

Lim, C, Wee, J, Lee, M, Lim, S, and Leow, S. Validity and reliability of the power slap board as an application to measure upper body vertical pulling power for female water polo players. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2024—This study examined the validity and reliability of the power slap test (PS) as an assessment for upper body pulling power to predict water polo functional performance and competitive experience of female water polo players. Seventeen female water polo players from the national and development squads were recruited. Subjects completed test-retest sessions of PS testing and 1 session of functional performance tests for the 15-m arms-only sprint (15 mAOS) and the 5-m maximum shooting velocity (5 mMSV). All PS, 15 mAOS and 5 mMSV results were compared for predictability. Power slap scores demonstrated high reliability for left PS (intraclass correlations [ICC]: 0.96, 90% confidence interval [CI]: 0.91–0.98), right PS (ICC: 0.96, 90% CI: 0.90–0.98), left and right center of mass (COM) displacement (ICC: 0.98, 90% CI: 0.96–0.99; ICC: 0.95, 90% CI: 0.88–0.98), and summed PS (ICC: 0.96, 90% CI: 0.92–0.99). All absolute PS scores and left COM displacement (COMdispL) demonstrated large correlations with the 15 mAOS times (r = −0.542 to −0.52, r

2
= 0.27–0.29, p < 0.05). No performance parameters of the PS were correlated with the 5 mMSV performance (p > 0.05). This study validates the reliability of the PS as a dryland assessment tool for upper body pulling power. Only absolute PS scores and COMdisp were validated as weak predictors of the arms-only sprint times over 15 m. Its predictive power significantly improved when considered in combination with shooting performance. All absolute and normalized kinetic and kinematic PS parameters did not predict functional performance and competitive experience.
The Relationship Between the Anaerobic Speed Reserve and Acute Responses to High-Intensity Interval Training in Female Soccer Players
Authors: Aspin Greg L. , Graham Michael K. , Franklin John D. , Hicks Kirsty M. , Taylor Jonathan M.
Published: July 2024

Aspin, GL, Graham, M, Franklin, J, Hicks, KM, and Taylor, JM. The relationship between the anaerobic speed reserve and acute responses to high-intensity interval training in female soccer players. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000–000, 2024—The anaerobic speed reserve (ASR) is a popular method of profiling soccer players, often used to individualize training prescription. This study explored the reliability of ASR profiling, and the relationship between the ASR and acute physiological responses to high-intensity interval training (HIIT). Acute physiological responses to different HIIT types were also compared. Thirteen subelite female soccer players aged 20.2 ± 4.6 years completed 6 exercise sessions. In sessions 1–2, players completed a 40-m sprint to assess maximal sprint speed (MSS) and 1600-m time-trial to estimate maximal aerobic speed (MAS), which were used to calculate ASR and assess test–retest reliability. In sessions 3–6, players completed 4 HIIT sessions (repeated-sprint training, sprint interval training, long intervals, and short intervals HIIT). Intensities for long and short intervals HIIT were individualized according to MAS. Ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), heart rate (HR), and postsession blood lactates were recorded throughout. Relationships between the ASR and acute responses to HIIT, and between HIIT session comparisons in outcome measures were assessed. Anaerobic speed reserve (coefficient of variation ± 95% confidence limits; 3.1 ± 1.5%), MAS (1.8 ± 1.3%), and MSS (0.8 ± 0.6%) indicated acceptable reliability. Moderate correlations between ASR and RPE (r = 0.33), postsession blood lactate (r = 0.34), and HR (r = 0.37) were observed during long intervals HIIT. A strong correlation was observed between ASR and RPE during SIT (r = 0.50). Sprint interval training elicited higher RPE's and postsession blood lactate's than other HIIT sessions. Anaerobic speed reserve has good reliability and may influence acute physiological responses to HIIT in female soccer players.
Phase-Dependent Visual and Sensorimotor Integration of Features for Grasp Computations before and after Effector Specification
Authors: Guo Lin Lawrence , Niemeier Matthias
Published: July 2024

The simple act of viewing and grasping an object involves complex sensorimotor control mechanisms that have been shown to vary as a function of multiple object and other task features such as object size, shape, weight, and wrist orientation. However, these features have been mostly studied in isolation. In contrast, given the nonlinearity of motor control, its computations require multiple features to be incorporated concurrently. Therefore, the present study tested the hypothesis that grasp computations integrate multiple task features superadditively in particular when these features are relevant for the same action phase. We asked male and female human participants to reach-to-grasp objects of different shapes and sizes with different wrist orientations. Also, we delayed the movement onset using auditory signals to specify which effector to use. Using electroencephalography and representative dissimilarity analysis to map the time course of cortical activity, we found that grasp computations formed superadditive integrated representations of grasp features during different planning phases of grasping. Shape-by-size representations and size-by-orientation representations occurred before and after effector specification, respectively, and could not be explained by single-feature models. These observations are consistent with the brain performing different preparatory, phase-specific computations; visual object analysis to identify grasp points at abstract visual levels; and downstream sensorimotor preparatory computations for reach-to-grasp trajectories. Our results suggest the brain adheres to the needs of nonlinear motor control for integration. Furthermore, they show that examining the superadditive influence of integrated representations can serve as a novel lens to map the computations underlying sensorimotor control.
Effects of Yacon Leaf Extract on MCP-1 and IL-10 Expressions and Macrophage Phenotypes in CKD Mouse Model
Authors: Sofyana Meida ,   Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia, Wasityastuti Widya , Ihsana Nuni , Purwono Setyo , Arfian Nur
Published: July 2024

Macrophages are essential in tissue homeostasis and immunity, but also contribute to disease development and progression. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized by interstitial infiltration of macrophages, the density of which correlates inversely with kidney survival. Studies have shown that yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) has beneficial effects on CKD. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of yacon leaf extract on mice with subtotal nephrectomy by evaluating the M1 and M2 macrophage counts and mRNA expressions of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1 and IL-10. The mice were randomly divided into five groups: SO (negative control: underwent sham operation), SN (positive control: underwent subtotal nephrectomy), and yacon-treated groups: YK1, YK2, and YK3 (underwent subtotal nephrectomy, given peroral yacon leaf extract for 14 days with doses of 24,5 mg/kgBW/day, 49 mg/kgBW/day, and 98 mg/kgBW/day, respectively). The macrophage subtypes were assessed using immunohistochemistry anti-CD68 for M1 and anti-Arginase I for M2. MCP-1 and IL-10 mRNA expressions were analyzed using semi-quantitative PCR. Results showed that yacon leaf extract could significantly lower the M2 macrophage count (p<0.001) and the mRNA expressions of MCP-1 and IL-10 in all yacon-treated groups when compared to the SN group. However, the M1 macrophage count was only lower in the YK2 group (p=0.009). In conclusion, the administration of yacon leaf extract could attenuate kidney injury by lowering the macrophage count and the expression of MCP-1 and IL-10.
Chronic pain management and a comprehensive approach for integration of Ayurveda with modern medicine
Authors: Gupta Rajeev
Published: July 2024

This paper aims to provide a comparative analysis of pain relief techniques for chronic pain management in Ayurveda and modern medicine. The analysis is based on available literature and evidence of efficacy. The paper also explores the commonalities between these disciplines and suggests methods for integrating both disciplines for effective pain management.
Effect of vocal loading on voice parameters in trainee actors
Authors: John Jane Mary , Joshi Namita , Nakum Meet
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Prolonged use of voice or vocal load can be a risk factor for individuals and can end up in vocal fatigue and dysphonia. Vocal loading can alter tissue structure and affect the voice quality forever. An obvious factor to be considered is the vocal use by a professional voice user. Actors are a group of professionals who can be affected by the long-term use of voice. There is a higher prevalence of inflammatory lesion in acting students and they were found to have poor vocal hygiene habits; which shows that these future elite vocal performers are at risk for developing a voice disorder. Aim: To study the objective and subjective changes in voice characteristics post vocal loading task in trainee actors. Method: A total 37 trainee actors (14 females and 23 males) participated in the study. The age range of the participants were 20 – 39 years and the range of the training period was 6 – 12 months. The participants were instructed to read a passage for 30 – 45 minutes at a loudness level of 70 – 80 dB SPL. Individuals with perceptually normal voice in terms of pitch and intensity and with a score less than 1 in GRBASI (Grade, Roughness, Breathiness, Asthenia, Strain, Instability) rating scale were included in the study. Acoustic, and perceptual evaluation were measured immediately before and after vocal loading task. Acoustic analysis was done using MDVP, whereas The Auditory Perceptual Rating Scale and GRABASI rating scale were used for perceptual analysis. Self-rating of the voice after vocal loading task was measured after the vocal loading task using Vocal Fatigue Index.1 Results and conclusion: The results revealed a significant difference in perceptual parameters post vocal loading task. The f0, jitter and HNR (Harmonic to Noise Ratio) showed a significant increase in the values after the vocal loading task. However, shimmer and RAP (Relative Amplitude Perturbation) did not show significant difference in the values post vocal loading task. The self-rating of the voice after the vocal loading task revealed that 54% of the trainee actors did not perceive vocal fatigue. The study hence shows significant effects of vocal loading in perceptual and acoustic analysis whereas the self-rating shows less perception of vocal changes in training actors. The acoustic, perceptual and self-rating of the voice quality before and after vocal loading task can aid in effective training and management of the trainee actors. However, the actors themselves are not equipped to measure the voice changes acoustically or perceptually and would take much longer time to perceive changes in their voice quality. Therefore, it is important to give a vocal hygiene programme in the preventive stage, that is, in the training period.
Sociological perspectives on workforce reentry: examining structural and cultural support for women after child-rearing leave
Authors: I Eidson Jacquelyn
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the experiences of women reentering the workforce after extended child-rearing leave, focusing on how organizations, leaders, and society as a whole can better support their transition. Through qualitative interviews with women that reentered the workforce after a minimum one-year leave, the research identifies the multitude of challenges faced including imposter syndrome, identity integration, connection and belonging, and work-life balance. The findings highlight the critical role of organizational policies, leadership practices, and societal attitudes in facilitating successful workforce reentry. Supportive measures, including flexible work arrangements, targeted reskilling programs, and inclusive workplace cultures, are shown to significantly enhance women's reintegration and professional development. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of empathy and mentorship in fostering a supportive environment. Recommendations are provided for organizations and policymakers to create more equitable and supportive frameworks, ultimately contributing to greater gender equality in the workforce. This research contributes to the broader understanding of the interplay between individual experiences and societal factors in shaping women's workforce reentry.
Client state management using backend for frontend pattern architecture in B2B segment.
Authors:   Zaporizhzhia National University, Ukraine, V Falkevych , A Lisniak ,   Zaporizhzhia National University, Ukraine
Published: July 2024

The article considers an architectural pattern Backend for Frontend (BFF) for developing web systems using microservice approaches. The main purpose of this article is to research aspects that existing solutions like WunderGraph cannot provide and propose a solution that enables client state management using the backend for Frontend pattern architecture specifically tailored for the B2B segment's requirements in Frontend development. During current research, there is defined a concept of API Provider Factory, Public API Gateway, Client State Management and proposes ways for their implementation. Methods of research are based on modeling, analysis, comparing, experiment, and abstracting.
Optimising the network of air quality monitoring stations
Authors: V Hura ,   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Ukraine, O Dutsiak ,   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Ukraine
Published: July 2024

This study explores the application of genetic algorithms (GAs) for optimizing the network of air quality monitoring stations. Recognizing the complexity of accurately assessing air pollution levels across diverse urban and rural landscapes, the research focuses on finding the most effective station placements to maximize coverage and data fidelity while minimizing costs. The methodology entails simulating natural selection processes, including selection, crossover, and mutation, to evolve a population of potential solutions. Each candidate solution in the population represents a unique configuration of monitoring stations. A fitness function evaluates the efficiency of each configuration based on criteria such as population coverage, proximity to pollution sources, and installation and operational expenses. The research employs a genetic algorithm developed in Python, which iteratively refines the population of solutions over thousands of generations. The algorithm's performance is assessed through experimental validation, with an emphasis on the adaptability of the approach to accommodate various environmental, economic, and regulatory constraints. Results indicate that GAs can effectively balance multiple optimization objectives, leading to a network design that is both cost-efficient and comprehensive in its monitoring capabilities. The outcome of the study is an optimized network that significantly improves upon the initial state in terms of coverage and cost-effectiveness. The study concludes that genetic algorithms offer a promising avenue for addressing the challenges of air quality monitoring network design. The flexibility and global search capabilities of GAs make them suitable for the complex, multi-objective nature of the task. Moreover, the findings suggest potential for further improvements and applications of GAs in environmental monitoring and other complex systems optimization scenarios.
Integration of knowledge management processes into a dynamic organizational environment
Authors: D Symonov ,   V.M. Glushkov Institute of Cybernetics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Ukraine, Y. Symonov ,   V.M. Glushkov Institute of Cybernetics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Ukraine
Published: July 2024

The article is devoted to the study of the impact of intellectual resources in the form of knowledge bases on the sustainable development of organizations. In today's world, where Knowledge is a key resource for success, the integration of Knowledge Management becomes an important component to ensure organizational competitiveness. The study emphasizes that successful implementation of artificial intelligence and knowledge bases requires not only technological solutions but also cultural changes within organizations, particularly in the areas of learning culture and collaboration. The authors of the article investigate the processes of acquisition, combination, and protection of Knowledge as key components of organizational sustainable development. They point out that the ability to acquire and combine Knowledge allows organizations to realize their potential in value creation. Knowledge Management is presented as a strategic component aimed at increasing productivity and competitiveness. The article discusses higher-order capabilities, such as adaptability, absorptive capacity, and innovation capacity, which affect the ability of organizations to respond to changes in the external environment. The algorithm for Knowledge utilization in organizations describes a comprehensive intellectual platform for managing and optimizing processes in the dynamic organizational environment. The Knowledge Management system includes managed and managing components, where the managed system reflects current parameters and information, while the managing system provides data storage, learning, and ontological knowledge base. The ontological knowledge base includes a set of concepts, semantic relationships, interpretation function, and axioms. Knowledge base updates occur depending on changes in time and the addition of new concepts, relationships, and axioms. Generalized ER-diagrams illustrate the structure and interaction of the learning module with the results used to update the Knowledge base. The algorithm allows you to analyze the state of the system and make optimal decisions based on the accumulated Knowledge.
Leveraging LangChain agents to automate data analysis for SaaS.
Authors: M Shash ,   State University of Information and Communication Technology, Ukraine
Published: July 2024

This paper investigates the implementation of LangChain, a language model-powered framework, in automating data analysis within the SaaS sector.The approach included setting up LangChain agents for exploratory, univariate, and bivariate analyses, as well as hypothesis testing, transforming extensive data into human language text answers. Experiments confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed method using GPT-3.5 LLM agents, tested on the Amazon AWS SaaS Sales Dataset. Identified deficiencies need to be addressed for complex queries and comprehensive reports. Future research prospects include improving the method for complex queries, providing more detailed information about companies and business models, creating report templates, and training the model to solve complex questions. To automate data analysis, the method of using LangChain agents was proposed. A software implementation was developed, and data analysis indicators were studied using SaaS sales data as a case study. The study demonstrated LangChain agents’ capability to automate data analysis processes in the SaaS industry. Future research will aim to expand its application across more complex data, larger number of data questions, and pre-trained LLMs
ANALYSIS OF THE VOLUME OF BONE MARROW CELL NUCLEI FOR ASSESSMENT OF CYTOSTATIC MYELOSUPPRESSION AND ITS PREVENTION BY ACTIVATED CARBON
Authors: Gerashchenko B.І. ,   R.E. Kavetsky Institute of Experimental Pathology, Oncology and Radiobiology, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Sarnatskaya V.V. , Bardakhivska K.I. ,   R.E. Kavetsky Institute of Experimental Pathology, Oncology and Radiobiology, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine,   R.E. Kavetsky Institute of Experimental Pathology, Oncology and Radiobiology, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: July 2024

Bone marrow suppression (myelosuppression) is a frequent complication of chemotherapy, and the need for monitoring and managing this side effect is still in great demand. Aim: to study the changes in the volume of nuclei in bone marrow cells of chemotherapy drug-treated laboratory animals with or without enterosorption by activated carbon (AC). Object and methods: both flow cytometry and confocal microscopy were used to analyze acridine orange (AO)-stained bone marrow samples of intact, doxorubicin (DOX)-, and DOX+AC-treated rats. Confocal Z-series that represent sequential scans of cell nuclei directed from top to bottom at 0.5-μm step size were acquired at 40× magnification using argon laser (488 nm) for excitation of AO. Green fluorescence emitted by DNA-bound AO was detected through a 505–530 nm band-pass filter, allowing distinct visualization of nuclei and their boundaries. Z-series were further processed and analyzed with ImageJ software to quantify the values of nuclear volumes. Results: there were apparent differences between the nuclear volumes in the bone marrow samples of intact, DOX-treated, and DOX+AC-treated rats. A significant increase of the volume of nuclei in DOX+AC-treated rats, compared with those in DOX-treated (1.42-fold) and intact rats (1.14-fold), is likely due to an active DNA replication, suggesting an ongoing recovery of the pool of nucleated cells. Notably, in these three groups, the populations of bone marrow nucleated cells, as estimated by flow cytometry, correlated well with the aforementioned values of nuclear volumes. However, the volume of nuclei may not necessarily correlate with the height of Z-series representing the thickness of nuclei, providing a clue that can help to delineate the role of nuclear deformability. Conclusion: analysis of the volume of bone marrow cell nuclei proposed in this work is important in terms of obtaining supplementary information in the study of the course of induced myelosuppression and of the ways of its prevention.
Priests’ Influence on the Seasonality of Marriages and Births at the End of the XVIII–XIX Centuries in Staroshvedska (Gammalsvenskby) Colony
Authors: Chyruk S.V.
Published: July 2024

The article is dedicated to the seasonality of marriages and birth rates in the Old Swedish Colony, as well as the potential influence of a Lutheran pastor on these demographic processes. Hypotheses regarding the connection between marriage dates and the seasonality of firstborn births and the differences in marriage seasonality between the Old Swedish Colony and Josephstal colonies are examined. Metric books and family lists serve as the primary sources. Marriage dates and firstborn birth dates are compared based on data partially reconstructed through family history research methods. Due to the specificity of the sources (lack of surnames, matching names, age information, or its fragmentary nature), it was possible to link personal information regarding marriage records from metric books and family lists for only some couples. Marriage dates and firstborn birth dates were identified for only 63 cases. Spearman’s rank correlation was used to search for correlations, and a correlation between marriage months and the seasonality of firstborn births was found (Rs = 0.32, p = 0.01, n = 63). However, no differences in marriage seasonality between the Old Swedish Colony and Josephstal were detected. Still, differences in the seasonality of firstborn births and subsequent children were observed. In spring, the number of firstborn births was lower compared to later children. Some cases of premarital conception were also identified. Most marriages, both in the Old Swedish Colony and Josephstal, were recorded in September, contradicting the observations of Anton Karlgren (1905), who claimed that most marriages in the Old Swedish Colony occurred in November. Nearly half (48%) of the marriages were double weddings, where multiple couples got married on the same day (2–4 couples). However, the number of such weddings decreased starting from the 1850s. It is worth noting that there was no significant concentration of double weddings in any particular year. The high concentration of double weddings in the late 18th century is explained by compensatory marriage rates after the cholera epidemic. Nevertheless, double weddings in the 1830s‑1850s may have been influenced by the short periods when the pastor visited the colony for wedding ceremonies.The author concludes that pastors had the opportunity to influence the seasonality of firstborn births through the timing of their visits to the colony for marriage ceremonies. However, the most significant impact of pastors on demographic processes was seen in the increase in double weddings, which resulted from the necessity of marrying when the pastor was present in the colony.
The Klotho protein and FGF23 as well-known players in the aging process but underestimated in the process of individual development and selected diseases of childhood and adolescence – a systematic review
Authors: Wiernik Agnieszka , Hyla-Klekot Lidia , Brauner Paulina , Kudela Grzegorz , Partyka Mirosław , Koszutski Tomasz
Published: July 2024

Introduction and objective: The FGF23–Klotho endocrine axis plays a pivotal role not only in processes associated with aging but also in metabolic pathways, with implications for paediatric disorders. The aim of this study was to systematically review the existing literature on Klotho and FGF23 in the paediatric population. Materials and methods: Based on the PubMed and Web of Science databases, we conducted a PRISMA-guided search using (klotho) AND (children); (FGF23) AND (children), adhering strictly to the PRISMA guidelines, and assessed evidence quality. Results: The systematic review included 66 studies. Altered Klotho and FGF23 serum levels were observed in paediatric metabolic conditions (chronic kidney disease, diabetes), cardiovascular, and growth and musculoskeletal disorders. In some of them, Klotho and FGF23 serum levels changed with disorder treatment. Elevated FGF23 and Klotho deficiency in renal failure adversely impacted the cardiovascular system. Lower Klotho levels were found in preterm neonates, especially with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Early Klotho supplementation in a bronchopulmonary dysplasia model mitigated lung tissue changes and improved the cardiac function. Children with lower Klotho levels undergoing cardiac surgeries faced a higher risk of postoperative complications, especially acute kidney injury. In X-linked hypophosphataemia, excess FGF23 led to musculoskeletal consequences. FGF23 serum levels aided the diagnosis of hypophosphataemic rickets, and anti-FGF23 antibody emerged as a common X-linked hypophosphataemia treatment. Conclusions: Klotho and FGF23 serve as promising early markers for paediatric metabolic disorders, offering a valuable tool for assessing complication risks. Klotho supplementation holds promise as a treatment method for specific paediatric disorders, while anti-FGF23 antibody is already established in X-linked hypophosphataemia treatment.
Comparison of the clinical picture and hormonal test results in children with growth hormone deficiency and idiopathic short stature – diagnostic difficulties and brief overview
Authors: Fedorczak Anna , Lewiński Andrzej , Stawerska Renata
Published: July 2024

Introduction and objective: Short stature is a common paediatric problem. Some children with short stature present growth hormone (GH) deficiency (GHD), whereas others have no hormonal disturbances (idiopathic short stature, ISS). Distinguishing between these two conditions is the task of the paediatric endocrinology centres. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical picture and hormonal tests results in patients with short stature caused by GHD and ISS. Materials and methods: The study included 100 short stature children. In all the children, medical history was obtained and a physical examination was performed. Next, bone age, insulin-like growth factor type 1 (IGF-1) levels, and GH secretion in two stimulation tests were assessed. With respect to the GH results, the children were divided into two groups: GHD (n = 38) and ISS (n = 62). Results: There were no significant differences between the groups with respect to age, sex, puberty stage, bone age, birth length and birth weight. Growth retardation was observed in both groups with a similar frequency, but in the ISS group it occurred significantly earlier. The mother’s height was lower in the ISS group. Body mass was significantly higher, but IGF-1 significantly lower in the GHD group. In both groups, the maximum GH secretion in the stimulation tests was higher after clonidine than after glucagon, which indicates that this test is more reliable. Conclusions: A similar degree of growth deficiency, growth rate deceleration and bone age delay are observed in ISS and GHD children, though ISS children are thinner and have higher IGF-1 levels. Despite some differences in clinical presentation, all short stature patients with growth rate deceleration should undergo thorough diagnostic testing along with GH stimulation tests.
Diamond/graphene (carbon sp3-sp2) heterojunctions for neuromorphic device applications
Authors: Iwane H. , Saito G. , Muto S. , Ueda K.
Published: July 2024

Diamond/graphene (carbon sp3-sp2) interfaces exhibit various interesting and potentially useful electronic phenomena. The present work demonstrates the possibility of obtaining novel neuromorphic photodevices using such junctions. Junctions were found to show different photoconductivity relaxation behavior depending on their growth conditions such that various optoelectronic properties were observed. In particular, interfaces exhibiting shorter relaxation times could be used to construct image recognition devices mimicking short-term memory functions of the human brain. Using these devices, images of the hand-written numerals 0 through 9 could be optoelectronically recognized with an accuracy on the order of 80%, demonstrating both photo-detection and processing functions in a single device. These results suggest that novel image processing devices could be produced using graphene/diamond heterojunctions.

Graphical Abstract
Hospital Food – à la française
Authors: Murrell Di
Published: July 2024

The author writes about the dismal state of hospital food -- even in France.
Memories
Authors: Fine Sally
Published: July 2024

The author recounts family meals in rural Pennsylvania Dutch country during her youth (early 20-the century).
Dinner with Griselda
Authors: Lyman-Dixon Anthony
Published: July 2024

The author speculates on what could one expect if invited to supper by Griselda, the patient Griselda who was the subject of Boccaccio’s final story in The Decameron, who was then the heroine of ‘The Clerk’s Tale’ in Chaucer, and who also figures in Petrarch and Perrault.
Jeffrey Parker: Global Crisis: War, Climate Change and Catastrophe in the Seventeenth Century
Authors: Dalby Andrew
Published: July 2024

Jeffrey Parker: Global Crisis: War, Climate Change and Catastrophe in the Seventeenth Century: Yale University Press, 2013: 874 pp., illustrations, hardback, £29.99.
Roy Strong: Feast. A History of Grand Eating
Authors: Jaine Tom
Published: July 2024

Roy Strong: Feast. A History of Grand Eating: Jonathan Cape, 2002: ISBN 0224061380:  350pp., b & w illus., £20.00.
Moira Buffini: Dinner
Authors: Jaine Tom
Published: July 2024

Moira Buffini: Dinner: Faber and Faber, 2002: ISBN 0571218512: 120 pp., p/b, £8.99.
Introduction to Process Simulation with Aspen Plus: Instructor's Guide
Authors: Okolie Jude , Rogachuk Brook
Published: July 2024

Process simulation entails the representation of a chemical process by using mathematical equations. Process simulation in Aspen Plus offers the advantages of optimizing plant performance, reducing operational costs, and improving product quality through precise modeling and analysis of chemical processes. This book was written as an educational material to help Chemical/ Environmental/Process Engineering students working on their capstone project to learn more about process design. Capstone courses are designed to help students understand process design, preliminary economic assessment and process plant optimization. The book delves into the fundamentals of process design and offers practical examples for easy understanding. This book was used with ENGR 3440, mentored research course on process design at the University of Oklahoma.
Reliable unit strength correlations to predict the compressive strength of grouted concrete masonry
Authors: Thamboo Julian , Sathurshan Mathavanayakam , Zahra Tatheer
Published: July 2024

Compressive strength of grouted concrete masonry is an important parameter to design reinforced/grouted concrete masonry walls. The design standards stipulate two methods to determine the compressive strength of masonry (1) using tabulated unit strength and mortar type, and (2) testing representative masonry prisms. The compressive strength prediction of grouted concrete masonry is influenced by compressive strength values of hollow blocks, mortar and grout, and their geometries. Therefore, a multi-level approach was employed in this study to improve the existing unit strength correlations of the standards for more reliable prediction of compressive strengths of grouted concrete masonry. The existing methods to determine the compressive strength of grouted masonry were critically appraised and a database of compression tests of grouted concrete masonry prisms/wallettes was developed. This database was then used to evaluate the correlations between the compressive strengths of block, mortar, grout and masonry. The applicability of existing unit strength correlations from the design standards and literature were assessed and their relevancy and limitations are highlighted. Subsequently, updated sets of unit strength correlations are proposed in this study, through statistical reliability analyses of the predictions against the experimental results included in the database. The proposed unit strength correlations were classified according to the mortar type/strengths (≤ 10 MPa and > 10 MPa). It has been shown that the new correlations are more structurally reliable than the existing unit strength correlations through comparing the 95th percentile error values.
Hypoplastic predictions of changes in undrained shear strength during episodic loading
Authors: Medicus G. , Kwa K. A.
Published: July 2024

Episodic loading patterns of undrained loading and consolidation are relevant to offshore foundation whole-life applications from variable metocean and operational conditions. In related finite-element simulations of foundation–soil interactions, the selected constitutive model then has to capture general trends of the soil response due to episodic loading, including changes in shear strength which affects the foundation's capacity. In this study, element test simulations using clay hypoplasticity were conducted to investigate the model's capability to capture general trends in the evolution of void ratio and undrained strength, which have been observed in direct simple shear (DSS) experiments on normally consolidated clay. Episodic loading in these DSS tests consisted of periods of undrained shear interspersed with consolidation and was applied to samples of normally consolidated kaolin clay. The clay hypoplastic constitutive model with the intergranular strain extension can be used to capture the response of normally consolidated clay subjected to episodic loading.
Quantification of spatial heterogeneity and its influence on particle migration
Authors: Ramakrishna Annapareddy V. S. , Sufian Adnan , Bore Thierry , Scheuermann Alexander
Published: July 2024

Suffusion experiments were utilised to quantify the evolving degree of heterogeneity in gap-graded soils. Upward flow was imposed on test specimens comprising a mixture layer with varying finer fraction contents overlain by a coarse layer. A coaxial permeameter cell enabled the local permeability to be obtained using spatial time domain reflectometry. Three methods (coefficient of variation, Dykstra–Parsons coefficient, and Lorenz coefficient) were employed to quantify heterogeneity based on spatial variability in local permeability. For the two-layered specimen in this study, all three methods demonstrated that suffusion had a homogenising effect with particle migration from the mixture layer to the coarse layer. Detailed insights were obtained from a multi-layered approach, where the Dykstra–Parsons coefficient was found to be more sensitive to spatial variations, while the Lorenz coefficient was less dependent on the amount of data. The key observation was that an increase in heterogeneity led to a reduction in particle migration. This is an important finding as prior studies focused on homogeneous specimens, while this study demonstrates that small amounts of heterogeneity can significantly impact particle migration characteristics. This reinforces the need to quantify the evolving degree of heterogeneity.
Teachers' mathematical skills and their perspectives on how they develop students' mathematical competences
Authors: Aguilar Cesar , Ortiz Teresa
Published: July 2024

The objectives of the research were to determine the level of teachers' mathematical skills and understand the perspectives of how they develop mathematical competencies in students. We quantitatively surveyed 48 math teachers, using a mixed approach to measure their math teaching expertise in four dimensions: communication, representation, symbol handling, and problem solving. Qualitative research was conducted with 13 teachers using an interview questionnaire. The teachers showcased outstanding math proficiency, specifically in problem-solving, mathematical modeling, and the utilization of ICT. The forms frequently employed by teachers for developing students' mathematical competencies were meaningful problem situations, problem-solving approach, and mathematical argumentation.
Tax culture and compliance with tax obligations in the clinical analysis laboratories of Cajamarca
Authors: Tello Correa Sofia Milena Francisca
Published: July 2024

The main purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between tax culture and compliance with tax obligations in the clinical analysis laboratories of Jaen. As indicated, the use of the applied methodology was necessary, with the non-experimental design being cross-sectional. was also correlational in scope, along the same lines, the population and sample were made up of 36 collaborators from the laboratories analyzed. Regarding the research technique, the survey was used and the questionnaire was used as the research instrument. The results indicate a significance of 0.005 and a Rho value: 0.461. It is concluded that the variables tax culture and compliance with tax obligations are correlated.