bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond conventional therapy: Synthesis of multifunctional nanoparticles for rheumatoid arthritis therapy
Authors: Ma Xinran
Published: October 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a persistent inflammatory illness that causes joint destruction and dysfunction due to the activation of macrophages and the generation of reactive oxygen species. Current therapy choices frequently limit the effectiveness of targeting the inflammatory areas. To reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in RA, this research will create and assess multifunctional nanoparticles that selectively target inflammatory cells and deliver therapeutic medicines. Tannic acid, ferric chloride hexahydrate, methotrexate (MTX), and bovine serum albumin were conjugated using sonication and centrifugation to create the nanoparticles. Folic acid was added to improve the ability to target. Transmission electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), UV-vis spectroscopy, and in vitro release experiments were used to characterize the nanoparticles. RAW 264.7 macrophage cells were used to test the cellular uptake of the nanoparticles using confocal microscopy and fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS). TFMBP-FA achieved 65.56%, and TFMBP reached 68.96%, indicating a high drug delivery rate for the synthesized nanoparticles. Confocal microscopy showed that the TFMBP-FA group had a greater density of fluorescent markers, indicating that the cells effectively targeted and absorbed the inflammatory environment. These results imply that the created nanoparticles may improve how medications are delivered during RA therapy.
Advancing sustainable agriculture: Metal-doped urea–hydroxyapatite hybrid nanofertilizer for agro-industry
Authors: Waheed Zohaib , Anwar Aneela , Sadiqa Ayesha , Ahmad Awais , Intisar Azeem , Javaid Arshad , Khan Iqra Haider , Khan Bushra Nisar , Khan Shahzeb , Kazi Mohsin
Published: October 2024

Nanotechnology holds excessive potential for addressing agricultural challenges such as soil deprivation, nutrient deficiencies, low harvests, and nutrient leaching. Nanofertilizers enable more efficient nutrient absorption by plants due to their enlarged surface area, bestowing viable solutions. Urea–hydroxyapatite hybrid (urea–HA hybrid) was successfully synthesized via a coprecipitation approach by doping nanohydroxyapatite with copper and zinc along with urea. The synthesized nanohybrids were analyzed by applying various techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). The evidence for the crystalline structure of HA was confirmed by peaks present in XRD analysis at 25.89°, 28.77°, and 32.11°, while urea was validated at 39.29°. The nanosized HA hexagonal nanorods were approximately 16 ± 1.5 nm, with the incorporation of urea, Cu, and Zn. The components of urea–HA hybrid (Ca, P, C, O, and N) were confirmed by EDS analysis with traces of Si. Antibacterial and antifungal activities were investigated against phytopathogenic microbes. The nanohybrid significantly inhibits the growth of Clavibacter michiganensis, Xanthomonas campestris, Macrophomina phaseolina, and Sclerotium rolfsii. A fertilization trial using urea–HA hybrid on Citrus limon has demonstrated a growth of 30 cm within 8 weeks of treatment, accompanied by brighter-colored leaves. Thus, the synthesized urea–HA hybrid enabled the slow release of nutrients, which had a significant impact on plant growth and will also effectively manage disease control against phytopathogens. Thus, this innovative approach addresses agricultural challenges regarding nutrient delivery and disease control more effectively.
Magnetic particles–integrated microfluidics: from physical mechanisms to biological applications
Authors: Paryab Amirhosein , Saghatchi Mahshid , Zarin Bahareh , Behsam Shadi , Abdollahi Sorosh , Malek Khachatourian Adrine , Toprak Muhammet S. , Amukarimi Shukufe , Qureshi Anjum , Niazi Javed H.
Published: October 2024

Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) have garnered significant attention in biomedical applications. Due to their large surface area and tunable properties, MNPs are used in microfluidic systems, which allow for the manipulation and control of fluids at micro- or nanoscale. Using microfluidic systems allows for a faster, less expensive, and more efficient approach to applications like bioanalysis. MNPs in microfluidics can precisely identify and detect bioanalytes on a single chip by controlling analytes in conjunction with magnetic particles (MPs) and separating various particles for analytical functions at the micro- and nanoscales. Numerous uses for these instruments, including cell-based research, proteomics, and diagnostics, have been reported. The successful reduction in the size of analytical assays and the creation of compact LOC platforms have been made possible with the assistance of microfluidics. Microfluidics is a highly effective method for manipulating fluids as a continuous flow or discrete droplets. Since the implementation of the LOC technology, various microfluidic methods have been developed to improve the efficiency and precision of sorting, separating, or isolating cells or microparticles from their original samples. These techniques aim to surpass traditional laboratory procedures. This review focuses on the recent progress in utilizing microfluidic systems that incorporate MNPs for biological applications.
Performance Comparison of Random Forest (RF) and Classification and Regression Trees (CART) for Hotel Star Rating Prediction
Authors: Utami Annisaa , Permadi Dimas Fanny Hebrasianto , Rosita Yesy Diah , Unjung Jumanto
Published: October 2024

Purpose: This study proposes to evaluate the effectiveness of Random Forest (RF) compared to Classification and Regression Trees (CART) in prediction of hotel star ratings. The objective is to identify the algorithm that provides the most reliable and accurate classification outcomes based on diverse hotel attributes in accordance with the standard categorization of star hotel categories. This is necessary due to the important role of accurate star ratings in guiding consumer choices and enhancing competitive positioning in the hospitality industry.
Method: This study conducted a comprehensive dataset about Hotel in Banyumas Regency, including location, facilities, the size of rooms, type of rooms, price of rooms, and customer reviews, subjected to training through both RF and CART algorithms. Both algorithms are evaluated using accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. Additionally, both algorithms due to in the same preprocessing while performing hyperparameter tuning improve the efficacy of each model.
Result: The results showed that RF achieved the best overall accuracy and robustness than CART across all tests conducted. Furthermore, RF also outperformed CART in classification effectiveness among classes, including enhanced precision and recall scores across multiple stars rating categories, signifying increased generalization and consistency in classification tasks. RF classifier consistently surpassed the CART classifier in terms of both accuracy and F1-score throughout all random states and test sizes, with a highest score of 0.9932 at a random state of 100 and a test size of 0.4. The most reliable results were obtained using RF with 42 random states and a test size of 0.2, resulting in an accuracy of 0.9909, precision of 1.0, recall of 1.0, and F1 score of 1.0. Simultaneously, CART shows values of 0.9818, 1.0, 1.0, and 1.0, respectively, while maintaining the same variation. This consistent performance, regardless of fluctuations, illustrates the robustness and suitability of RF for classification tasks compared to CART.
Novelty: This study offered new insights about the implementation of machine learning about hotel star rating predictions using RF and CART algorithms. Also, the novelty of the collected hotel dataset used in this study. A detailed comparative analysis was also provided, contributing to the existing literature by showing the effectiveness of RF over CART for this specific application. Future studies could explore the integration of additional machine learning methods to further enhance prediction accuracy and operational efficiency in the hospitality industry.
The clinical spectrum of Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada syndrome: A single-center experience from South India
Authors: Mahendradas Padmamalini , Kawali Ankush , Bharti Neha , Haria Dhawal , Gowda Poornachandra , Shetty Naren , Shetty Rohit , Shetty Bhujang K
Published: October 2024

Aim
To report the clinical features, investigations, management, and outcome in typical cases of Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Syndrome (VKH) in a tertiary eye care center in South India.
 
Materials and methods
Retrospective interventional case series of VKH patients.
 
Results
Seventy-one eyes of 36 patients (age range 12-68 years) were included. Anatomical diagnoses were posterior uveitis (15 eyes) and pan uveitis (56 eyes). The classification of the cases with regard to VKH disease was as follows: six eyes were classified as complete, 41 eyes as incomplete, and 24 eyes as probable VKH disease. Commonest extraocular manifestation noted in 25 cases was headache. The more common ocular presentations were disc hyperemia (40 eyes) and exudative retinal detachment in the posterior pole (46 eyes) and in the retinal periphery (24 eyes). All patients were managed on systemic steroids. Systemic immunosuppressive therapy was given in 21 cases. Majority of the participants had good visual outcome.
La predicación dominicano-tomista como pedagogía de la fe
Authors: Gelabert Ballester Martín
Published: October 2024

The author offers a series of guidelines, inspired by the Dominican tradition and by Thomas Aquinas, which should be present in any pedagogy of faith. The general principle that should guide all pedagogy is the search for the truth; precisely this was the project of Thomas Aquinas. The article reflects on a text by Sto. Tomás that exposes the conditions for faith to be given. It ends by providing two important dimensions that must be present in any pedagogy of the faith, namely, the capacity for the positive and the offering of content, inspired by two of the descriptions that are said of Dominic de Guzmán: preacher of grace (capacity for the positive) and doctor of the truth (content offering).
Short-Term Digital Platform Work’s Long-Term Impact on Livelihoods
Authors: Latif Farhan
Published: October 2024

As platformization and virtualization of work gain prominence in the digitally connected world, parallel efforts are being made to narrow the digital divides, driving the globalization of short-term digital labor as both a rapidly evolving theoretical construct and a practical reality. Although the disproportionate influence of platforms on Global South development is a growing area of concern, the global reach of platforms does not necessarily imply a uniform impact on development gains and constraints across different developing regions. This review paper explores this interplay between digital platform work and local development, particularly emphasizing the long-term impact of platform-mediated digital work on workers’ livelihoods in the Global South. The study delves into how the variation in local contextual factors changes the livelihood outcomes of platform work in different Global South countries. The study focuses on three key areas endogenous to local development, i.e., access to decent work, employability skills development, and workers’ resilience within the ever-changing job market.  A realist synthesis method is used to distinguish between different scholarly perspectives across various disciplines and geographic areas. The findings are further utilized to refine a conception of the Sustainable Livelihood Framework, providing a tool that broadens the scope of platform work analysis to account for the diverse structural and contextual factors impacting workers’ livelihoods in different regions. The study calls for a thorough examination of the uneven distribution of platform labor outcomes, focusing particularly on the local contextual factors contributing to this disparity.
Barriers to Meaningful Connectivity
Authors: Templeman Joel , Anderson Shelley , MacKenzie Shanleigh
Published: October 2024

Community networks risk failure when they attempt to emulate models from elsewhere without engaging the community in the process and making appropriate adaptations. These ‘build it and they will come’ models rarely work over the long term. This research project explored claims from residents of a low-income neighbourhood in the “North End” of Winnipeg in Manitoba, Canada, that inadequate and unaffordable Internet connectivity limits their access to critical communication tools, resources, and information. Through the research, we identified the need for a sustainable model of affordable, accessible Internet connectivity that centers on building a cooperative-owned and operated community network with Indigenous and newcomer families at its heart. Findings revealed that high connectivity costs, limited digital literacy, and inadequate infrastructure are the primary barriers to meaningful connectivity in the community.
The intent of the “North End Connect” research project was to work directly with the residents, to learn about their connectivity needs and wants, inform the project’s technical team as to how and where to build a solution that works for the community, removing explicit and implicit barriers to access. Through our research, we validated that digital connectivity is a problem in the community. Utilizing a CBPAR approach provided a more nuanced understanding of the barriers to access from the resident’s perspective and lived experience. This allowed for the development of a strengths-based roadmap that utilized existing assets to provide affordable, accessible, trustworthy, and secure Internet access to anyone who wants it. The research acted as the catalyst to motivate the community and led to ongoing interventions aimed at addressing each of the identified barriers. As we investigate these barriers, it becomes evident that addressing these issues is not just a matter of technological access but a crucial step toward fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. The project serves as a model for community-driven digital inclusion efforts and contributes to global conversations about equitable access to the internet.
Reflecting on Two Decades of Community Informatics: Unfulfilled Promises and Unanticipated Challenges
Authors: Gomez Ricardo
Published: October 2024

This note critically examines the evolution of community informatics over the past two decades, evaluating its successes and shortcomings in creating a more just and equitable world. It reflects on the initial aspirations we held for community informatics, and contrasts them with the current landscape, dominated by challenges we did not foresee then, and by the transformative influence of artificial intelligence (AI). I also project potential future trends and issues in community informatics, emphasizing the need for proactive strategies to navigate a world increasingly shaped by corporate interests, AI-driven knowledge management, and the threat of misinformation to democratic processes.
Towards pluriversal community informatics
Authors: McMahon Rob , Zaman Tariq
Published: October 2024

In this article we reflect on pluriversal connections for Community Informatics (CI), drawing from our collective experiences working with Indigenous Peoples in Borneo and Canada. Building on Michael Gurstein’s foundational work and situating it in relation to contemporary debates around digital equity and inclusion, we present summaries of collaborative, iterative, locally-grounded participatory action research projects that illustrate the enduring methodological, ethical and conceptual questions raised in CI. Through our interactions and shared experiences, these examples also demonstrate Gurstein’s (2012) focus on connecting across geographic and cultural boundaries in ways that respect the self-determined nature of place-based communities.
DISTRIBUTION OF DIESEL FUEL COMPONENTS AFTER SPILL OVER THE BOTTOM SEDIMENTS OF RIVERS AND SOILS OF THE ARCTIC TERRITORY
Authors: VOLKOVA N.A. , SEREBRENNIKOVA O.V. , RUSSKIKH I.V. , KRASNOYAROVA N.A.
Published: October 2024

The content and composition of organic compounds in the bottom sediments of rivers and in soils sampled at the Arctic territory affected by diesel fuel spill were studied by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The composition of diesel fuel was studied. It was found that the groups of compounds characteristic of diesel fuel - n-alkanes, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, alkylbenzenes and trimethylalkylbenzenes, sesquiterpanes, steranes, and hopanes were found mainly in the samples taken downstream at a distance of 0.5-20 km from the pollution source. The highest concentration of identified compounds was detected in bottom sediments and soil sampled at a distance of 20 km from the spill, which is associated with the structural features of the riverbed and bank line. In the samples taken at more remote sites (40-90 km), traces of diesel fuel components were found only in bottom sediments.
THERMAL PROPERTIES OF COBALT AND MOLYBDENUM CONTAINING CITRATE SYSTEMS
Authors: ZHIROV N.A. , ZHURAVKOV S.P. , AKIMOV AL.S. , AKIMOV A.S.
Published: October 2024

Citrate complexes of transition metals, namely cobalt and molybdenum, used as active components in the synthesis of catalytic systems supported on alumina for hydrotreatment of heavy oil fractions have been studied. Cobalt nitrate hexahydrate and polyoxomolybdate (molybdenum blue) obtained by mechanical activation of molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) powder were used as initial compounds. Thermogravimetric analysis of the samples was carried out during their heating from 25 to 750°C at a rate of 15°C/min in air. Thermogravimetric analysis shows that the order in which the active components are introduced significantly affects the thermal stability of the sample. Despite the general similarity of the profiles, a shift of the temperature range of citrate complex decomposition is observed, depending on the order of active components introduction. Presumably, this may be due to the different degrees of Mo and Co availability for the formation of compounds with citrate ligands. It is shown that the most thermally stable system is the one in which the Co-containing component and citric acid are introduced first, and then the alcohol solution of molybdenum blue; the least stable system is the reverse one, in which the alcohol solution of molybdenum blue is introduced first, then citric acid and the Co-containing component are added.
GEOCHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE ORGANIC MATTER OF THE RIPHEAN DEPOSITS OF THE UST’-MAYSKAYA PARAMETRIC WELL FOR ASSESSMENT OF THE OIL AND GAS POTENTIAL
Authors: KRASNOYAROVA N.A. , SEREBRENNIKOVA O.V. , KADYCHAGOV P.B.
Published: October 2024

The investigation of the dispersed organic matter of the rocks in the Ust’-Maiskaya wildcat area was conducted. Data on the features of dispersed organic matter composition in the range of 2868.731-3057.68 m are presented. Alkanes, mono-, bi-, tri-, tetra- and pentacyclic arenes, bi-, tri-, tetra- and pentacyclanes, tetracyclic naphthenoaromatic hydrocarbons, dibenzothiophenes have been identified among hydrocarbons studied by means of gas chromatography - mass-spectrometry. Perylene and traces of nickel metalloporphyrins and perylene were also determined by means of spectrophotometry. It is shown that the initial organic matter was formed under the conditions of reduction and suboxidation, with a significant contribution from both terrestrial vegetation and phytoplankton. The presence of nickel porphyrin and perylene complexes in some sections of the log suggests the shallowness of the sedimentation basin and the proximity of the coastline during OM accumulation. The calculated vitrinite reflectance indicates that the differences observed for the MK2 stage of catagenesis correspond to the main zone of oil generation.
THE PATTERNS OF THIOPHENE DERIVATIVES FORMATION IN HIGH-SULPHUR OIL SHALE CRACKING
Authors: KRIVTSOV E.B. , PANTILOV P.V. , MOZHAYSKAYA M.V. , GONCHAROV A.V.
Published: October 2024

The composition of cracking products of high-sulphur shale oil from the Kashpir deposit is investigated under different process conditions (duration and temperature). The characteristic features of the influence of heat treatment conditions on changes in the composition of liquid products of oil shale cracking are established. It is shown that the cracking of oil shale organic matter is accompanied by the formation of a wide range of low-molecular sulphur-containing compounds that enter the composition of oils. The changes in the group composition of sulphur-containing compounds of oils have been studied, the features of the distribution of thiophene derivatives, benzo- and dibenzothiophene derivatives in the composition of liquid cracking products are revealed. It is shown that the depth and rate of destruction of sulphur-containing structural fragments of kerogen is significantly affected by the temperature and duration of the process. The data obtained will improve understanding of the patterns of thermal transformations of sulphur-containing structural fragments of organic matter in high-sulphur oil shale during cracking.
APPLICATION OF SATELLITE DATA TO ANALYSE THE ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION OF OIL PRODUCING AREAS
Authors: PEREMITINA T.O. , YASHCHENKO I.G.
Published: October 2024

The state of the vegetation cover at six hydrocarbon fields of the Parabel district of the Tomsk Region has been studied relying on satellite data. An example of the practical application of the procedure developed for the quantitative assessment of the state of vegetation cover at oil-and-gas producing territories on the basis of the values of vegetation indices obtained using the satellite data MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer) is shown. It is established that changes in the values of vegetation index EVI (Enhanced Vegetation Index) over the 12-year period (2011-2022) have a positive trend, with the maximum values recorded in 2020. This may indicate the restoration of vegetation and improvement of the environmental situation.
LITHIUM HYDROXIDE FORMATION BY MEMBRANE ELECTROLYSIS
Authors: KOROLKOVA I.V. , ZHILIN K.P.
Published: October 2024

The production of high-purity lithium hydroxide (LiOH) solution by electrochemical conversion of soluble lithium salts (membrane electrolysis) was tested on semi-industrial scale. Stainless steel (cathode) and lead (anode) were used as electrode materials. Lithium sulphate solution was utilised as anolyte and water - as catholyte. During membrane electrolysis, water oxidation takes place in the anode compartment with the formation of gaseous oxygen and protons. Lithium ions permeate through the cationic membrane into the cathode compartment, where gaseous hydrogen and hydroxide ions are formed as the products of water decomposition on the cathode, so lithium hydroxide gets concentrated up to 33-36 g/dm3 with respect to lithium oxide. Electrolysis efficiency is 50-55 % for one process cycle. Sulphuric acid formed in the anode compartment may be then neutralised by adding lithium carbonate, and the formed lithium sulphate may be re-used in membrane electrolysis, which means anolyte recycling. Five successive electrolysis cycles with recycled anolyte allow an increase in the degree of lithium ion transfer from the anode to cathode compartment to 95-98 %. It is established that, in addition to lithium, other metal ions (sodium, potassium, calcium, etc.) and sulphate ions migrate through the cation-exchange membrane into the cathode compartment from anolyte solution. To evaluate the quality of the obtained lithium hydroxide monohydrate (LiOH•H2O), lithium hydroxide solutions obtained both by membrane electrolysis and by the traditional lime causticisation process were evaporated. Comparison between the concentrations of impurity ions in lithium hydroxide monohydrate samples obtained using different methods shows that the product of better purity may be synthesized from lithium sulphate solution by membrane electrolysis.
MONARDA FISTULOSA L. FROM THE FOREST-STEPPE ZONE OF WESTERN SIBERIA: ANTI-INFLUENZA ACTIVITY OF PLANT COMPONENTS DURING THE VEGETATION PERIOD
Authors: LOBANOVA I.E. , PROTSENKO M.A. , KUKUSHKINA T.A. , FILIPPOVA E.I. , KHRAMOVA E.P. , MAKAREVICH E.V. , MAZURKOVA N.A.
Published: October 2024

This is a study on antiviral activity of various extracts from the plant Monarda fistulosa L. cultivated in the forest-steppe zone of Western Siberia during the vegetation period. The activity of aqueous and aqueous-ethanolic extracts of M. fistulosa during the whole vegetation period and two polyphenolic fractions from this plant at the flowering stage was investigated against human influenza virus A/Aichi/2/68 (H3N2) and avian influenza virus A/chicken/Kurgan/05/2005 (H5N1). The anti-influenza activity was compared among the extracts and the polyphenolic fractions from M. fistulosa at the flowering stage. It was shown that antiviral activity against each subtype of the influenza A virus differed throughout the entire vegetation period, depending on the developmental stage of M. fistulosa and the type of extraction. Influenza virus A/Aichi/2/68 (H3N2) infectivity was most strongly inhibited by aqueous-ethanolic extracts from M. fistulosa raw material collected at the growth stage and by the aqueous extract from the fruiting initiation stage. Inhibition of the infectivity of influenza virus A/chicken/Kurgan/05/2005 (H5N1) was achieved by one or another M. fistulosa extract almost throughout the whole vegetation period. It is found that Polyphenolic Fractions 1 and 2 are more active against influenza virus A/Aichi/2/68 (H3N2), but aqueous and aqueous-ethanolic extracts are more active against influenza virus A/chicken/Kurgan/05/2005 (H5N1). On the condition of further in-depth studies, our experimental data suggest that M. fistulosa plant components can be recommended as medicinal (antiviral) substances against influenza viruses A/Aichi/2/68 (H3N2) and A/chicken/Kurgan/05/2005 (H5N1).
INFLUENCE OF BASALT FIBRES ON THE PHYSICAL-MECHANICAL, PERFORMANCE AND DYNAMIC PROPERTIES OF RUBBER FOR RAIL PADS
Authors: EGOROV E.N. , SANDALOV S.I. , KOL'TSOV N.I.
Published: October 2024

The effect of basalt fibres on the rheometric, physical-mechanical, performance and dynamic (vibration absorbing) properties of rubber used for rail fastenings is investigated. The rubber mixture based on butadiene-methylstyrene (SKMS-30ARK), isoprene (SKI-3) and butadiene-nitrile (SKN 2655) caoutchoucs contained also vulcanising agents (sulphur, N,N'-dithiodimorpholine, tetramethylthiuram disulphide), vulcanisation accelerator (N-cyclohexyl-2-benzothiazole sulphenamide), vulcanisation activators (zinc oxide, stearic acid), softeners (industrial oil I-12A, rosin), antioxidants (N-phenyl-N'-isopropyl-para-phenylenediamine, wax ZV-P, acetonanil N), fillers (kaolin, carbon black of N 220 and P 514 grades, silicon dioxide Zeosil 1165 MP) and other ingredients. The strength properties and hardness of the vulcanisates are observed to increase with an increase in the content of basalt fibres in the rubber mixture. Basalt fibres reduce changes in the elastic-strength parameters of vulcanisates after daily thermal aging in air and under the action of the standard petroleum fluid SZhR-1. The improved dynamic (vibration damping) properties are exhibited by vulcanised rubber containing 12.0 phr basalt fibres.
RARE METALS RECOVERY FROM THE SORBENTS OF THE SORPTION CONVERSION OF EUDIALYTE CONCENTRATE
Authors: LOKSHIN E.P. , TAREEVA O.A. , DROGOBUZHSKAYA S.V. , BELIKOV M.L.
Published: October 2024

In order to develop the technology of eudialyte concentrate processing based on the use of sorption conversion, the patterns of metal extraction from sulphocationites saturated in the process and the regeneration of sulphocationite and solutions used for desorption for reuse are investigated. The compositions of saturated sorbents containing alkaline metals (sodium, potassium), alkaline earth and rare earth metals, titanium, zirconium (hafnium), niobium (tantalum), aluminium, iron, manganese, natural radionuclides are presented. Desorption with various solutions is investigated. It is found that niobium (tantalum) is most difficult to desorb. It is recommended to carry out two-stage desorption at a temperature of 20 °C: at first, with a 5 M NaCl solution, in which the majority of metals contained in the sorbent are converted into solution, and then desorption of zirconium and niobium with a 1 M Н2С2О4 solution. The issues of further processing of the obtained desorbates are considered. In accordance with previous studies, the impurity cake containing thorium, iron, aluminium, titanium is precipitated and separated from desorbates based on a 5 M NaCl solution through fractional neutralization, initially to pH 4, then the concentrate of rare earth elements is separated by neutralization to pH 7.5, and, finally, at pH ≥ 10, alkaline earth metals and manganese. Zirconium (hafnium) - niobium concentrate is precipitated from desorbates based on 1 M Н2С2О4 solution through neutralization with NaOH to pH 10, and then zirconium (hafnium) is leached from it using Na2CO3 solution. It is stressed that the sorbent in the H+-form is formed after desorption with a 1 M Н2С2О4 solution, which allows using it repeatedly to decompose eudialyte concentrate by sorption conversion. It is shown that the 1 M Н2С2О4 solution can be regenerated by electrodialysis from the Na2С2О4 solution obtained by precipitation of the collective zirconium (hafnium) - niobium concentrate.
COMPREHENSIVE INVESTIGATION OF THE FEATURES OF MOLECULAR COMPOSITION AND SUPRAMOLECULAR STRUCTURE OF COAL AT DIFFERENT METAMORPHISM STAGES
Authors: OBUKHOVA A.V. , KUZNETSOVA L.I. , KOSITSYNA S.S. , KUZNETSOV P.N.
Published: October 2024

The features of the molecular and supramolecular structure of brown and bituminous coals at different metamorphisms stages have been determined using a complex of methods: IR spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, the kinetics of swelling in solvents, and sorption of molecular iodine. The relations of the supramolecular structure of coals with the indicators of molecular composition are established, the evolution of coal structure in the series of metamorphism, the mechanisms of transport of solvent molecules into the volume of the organic mass of various coals are considered.
SYNTHESIS OF TETRAMETHOXYSILANE FROM SIO2-CONTAINING INDUSTRIAL WASTES
Authors: PERERVA O.V. , DMITRIEVA M.V. , STOROZHENKO P.A.
Published: October 2024

The published data are considered, and the technological aspects of a promising industrial process for the chlorine-free production of alkoxysilanes from silicon dioxide are analysed. Particular attention is paid to key issues that have not yet been considered in the literature. It is shown that the raw material base for the synthesis of alkoxysilanes can be expanded at the expense of microsilica, waste from the production of silicon and ferrosilicon. It has been experimentally confirmed that potassium hydroxide used as a catalyst for the synthesis of alkoxysilanes can be recovered and returned to the process. It has been established that the products of tetramethoxysilane (Si(OMe)4) synthesis from silicon dioxide and dimethyl carbonate contain 55 components (among them, 45 high-boiling ones have not been identified). The main impurities in the reaction products are MeOH, CH2O, MeOMe, and (MeO)3SiOSi(OMe)3. Technological prospects for the process of obtaining Si(OMe)4 from industrial wastes are considered.
Pielęgnacja owrzodzenia nowotworowego piersi jako proces mający istotny wpływ na jakość życia pacjentki
Authors: Mucha Katarzyna
Published: October 2024

Owrzodzenie nowotworowe występujące u kobiet powoduje różne zniekształcenia i zmiany zachodzące w ciele, co przekłada się na negatywny sposób postrzegania swojego wyglądu, tym samym powodując brak akceptacji zaistniałych zmian. Inne dokuczliwe objawy choroby nowotworowej w znaczący sposób obniżają jakość życia chorych. Wdrożenie specjalistycznej opieki paliatywnej oraz podjęcie działań przez interdyscyplinarny zespół opieki paliatywnej mają na celu zmianę zaistniałej sytuacji i sprostanie w miarę możliwości oczekiwaniom pacjenta. Pielęgnacja i leczenie rany nowotworowej dla wielu pacjentek staje się priorytetem, a wymierne efekty tych działań podnoszą jakość życia i funkcjonowanie w chorobie. W pracy zaprezentowano własne doświadczenie pielęgnacji i leczenia rany nowotworowej w obszarze piersi prawej u pacjentki z zaawansowanym procesem nowotworowym.
Skuteczne metody w terapii blizn – przegląd literatury
Authors: Krawczyk Marcin
Published: October 2024

Część pacjentów uważa, że blizny skórne są drobną, nieuniknioną konsekwencją urazu skóry. Z kolei dla wielu pacjentów nieestetyczne blizny mogą powodować nieprzyjemne objawy, ograniczenie funkcji, a także znaczny dyskomfort psychiczny i problemy z funkcjonowaniem w społeczeństwie. Pomimo faktu ich powszechności i częstego występowania zdefiniowanie blizn skórnych oraz usystematyzowanie dostępnych metod terapii okazało się problematyczne ze względu na brak konkretnych protokołów zabiegowych. W związku z tym dokonano przeglądu literatury dotyczącej wybranych i dostępnych metod leczenia w celu oceny aktualnych i skutecznych możliwości leczenia blizn.
Sulbaktam-awibaktam w terapii zakażeń ran o etiologii Acinetobacter baumannii. Szaleństwo czy metoda?
Authors: Oczkowska Anna E.
Published: October 2024

Acinetobacter baumannii (AB) zaliczany jest obecnie do czynników zakaźnych o krytycznym priorytecie na liście patogenów WHO. Odpowiada za szerokie spektrum występowania zakażeń, w tym zakażenia ran, zapalenia płuc i bakteriemię. Zdolność szybkiego nabywania i kumulowania przez ten drobnoustrój różnorodnych mechanizmów oporności doprowadziła do powstania szczepów o skrajnej oporności, stanowiących poważne wyzwanie terapeutyczne. W obliczu znacznego ograniczenia skuteczności tradycyjnych terapii antybiotykowych, skutkującego licznymi niepowodzeniami terapeutycznymi oraz zwiększeniem zachorowalności i śmiertelności, eksperci podkreślają konieczność wielokierunkowych działań, obejmujących m.in. rozwój nowych strategii antybiotykoterapii, do których zalicza się terapię skojarzoną opartą na występowaniu synergizmu między antybiotykami. Uważa się, że terapia skojarzona stanowi najskuteczniejszą opcję terapeutyczną i powinna obejmować duże dawki ampicyliny z sulbaktamem w połączeniu z innym środkiem aktywnym, takim jak tygecyklina w dużych dawkach czy polimyksyny. W obliczu braku dostępności nowych, skutecznych leków skierowanych przeciwko wielolekoopornym szczepom AB poszukuje się takich zestawień związków, które zapewnią skuteczną terapię, jednocześnie ograniczając skutki uboczne i ryzyko wytworzenia oporności przez dany szczep. W pracy przedstawiono możliwości diagnostyki synergizmu oraz jego wykorzystania w terapii zakażeń o etiologii AB, w tym u chorych z uogólnionym zakażeniem ran. Omówiono aktualne możliwości terapeutyczne na podstawie europejskich i amerykańskich rekomendacji, a także najnowszych doniesień literaturowych. Szczególną uwagę poświęcono możliwości zastosowania terapii sulbaktamem w połączeniu z dostępnym na rynku inhibitorem β-laktamaz, jakim jest awibaktam, z uwzględnieniem wynikających z tego korzyści i zagrożeń.
Affordable Care Act’s Preventive Services Coverage Mandate and Receipt of Fluoride Varnish
Authors: Kranz Ashley M. , Mizushima Yuji , Dick Andrew W. , Geissler Kimberley H. , Gracner Tadeja
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

The Affordable Care Act required private insurers to cover a set of recommended preventive services without cost-sharing. This included coverage of fluoride varnish (FV) applications without cost-sharing for children aged 1 through 5 during medical visits, an evidence-based treatment that prevents tooth decay. We examined if this coverage mandate was associated with more young children receiving FV.

METHODS

Using the Massachusetts All-Payer Claims Database (2014–2018), we examined the likelihood that a privately insured child received FV during a medical visit in a month. We used a difference-in-differences approach, comparing those included in the coverage mandate (aged 1–5) to those excluded from the mandate (aged 6–9), before and after the mandate was enacted (January 2015). We repeated analyses in children with Medicaid because this mandate may have had spillover effects for this population.

RESULTS

Among children aged 1 through 5 years with private insurance, 1-year postmandate the probability of FV receipt in a month increased 0.16 percentage points more relative to December 2014 (premandate) compared with the change among children aged 6 to 9 years (P < .001; 95% confidence interval = 0.1–0.22). When examining spillover to children with Medicaid, the mandate was not associated with a significant increase in the probability of monthly FV receipt 1-year postmandate.

CONCLUSIONS

This Affordable Care Act mandate requiring coverage of FV without cost-sharing was associated with higher rates of young children receiving FV in medical settings, with the largest result observed among children with private insurance.
Investigating cultural ecosystem services of the Caatinga on Flickr
Authors: Santana Maria Vittória Alves , Oliveira Danilo Vicente Batista , Albuquerque Ulysses
Published: October 2024

Public interest in nature can be promoted through social media by assessing the importance of a species to people and identifying new emblems of conservationist appeal. We aimed to assess the public interest in cultural ecosystem services in the Caatinga (seasonal dry forest). Ecosystem services were categorized based on approximately 1500 photographs posted on Flickr. These photographs were analyzed using manual and deep-learning (DL) approaches. The most observed categories for both approaches were “Enjoyment of the Landscape” (36.8%), “Appreciation of Nature – Animals’’ (25.6%), and “Social Activities” (19.3%). However, we found significant differences between manual and DL classifications owing to the difficulties in classifying categories using the DL model. The findings suggest a low cultural ecosystem service representation on the photo-sharing platform Flickr in the Caatinga region, even after removing 67% of the collected data. This may be attributed to the limited interest in Flickr among the Caatinga residents. Deep learning (DL) techniques hold potential for studying cultural ecosystem services, but their efficacy depends on the algorithm's capacity to discern human-nature interactions and various natural elements. Our observations indicate that increasing the scale of the training and test datasets and incorporating additional categories to account for Caatinga diversity may enhance the results.
A new record of Dinochloa malayana S.Dransf. (Poaceae, Bambusoideae) from central Sumatra, Indonesia, reveals the continuous distribution of Dinochloa in western Malesia
Authors: Ritonga Muhammad Azli , Syamsuardi Syamsuardi , Nurainas Nurainas , Maideliza Tesri , Damayanto I Putu Gede P.
Published: October 2024

We report a new record of Dinochloa malayana S.Dransf. (Poaceae, Bambusoideae) from Sumatra, Indonesia, speciﬁcally in Sumpur Kudus, Sijunjung, West Sumatra. This discovery expands the known western range of Dinochloa Buse in Malesia. On the mainland of Sumatra, this genus, represented by D. glabrescens Widjaja, was previously only reported from Lampung in the south. Dinochloa was once thought to have a disjunct distribution in western Malesia, limited to the Malay Peninsula and southern Sumatra. Our new data conﬁrm the continuous distribution of Dinochloa throughout western Malesia.
Infant Mortality in the United States: Provisional Data From the 2023 Period Linked Birth/Infant Death File
Authors: Ely Danielle , Driscoll Anne
Published: October 2024

This report provides health data from the National Center for Health Statistics.
EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION OF LOW HEAT FLUX WICKED HEAT PIPES PERFORMANCE WITH DIFFERENT WORKING FLUIDS AND TILT ANGLES
Authors: Sertkaya Ahmet Ali , Akyar Yusuf , Ozsoy Ahmet
Published: October 2024

This experimental investigation focused on wicked heat pipe under different operating conditions. A single-layer 150-mesh wicked heat pipe was used in the experiments. The heat pipes were made of copper tubes with a diameter of 15 mm and a total length of 450 mm. The used working fluids were pure water, methanol, ethanol, acetone, and R134a. The working fluid charge rate was 50% of the evaporator volume. The power input from the evaporator surface was selected from five different values between 1.12 kW/m2 and 5.58 kW/m2, which can be considered as relatively low. The heat carried by the heat pipe was transferred to the water circulating around the condenser section. The heat pipes were operated at inclination angles of 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90°, and the performance was assessed based on the thermal input power and tilt angle. Over the range studied, the best performance in terms of heat pipe surface temperature distributions was achieved with R134a. Heat pipe performance was improved with increasing tilt angle. Increasing the tilt angle also increased the boiling heat transfer coefficient. The gradual increase in heat flux was observed to result in an average increase of 10-15°C in surface temperatures in the evaporator section compared to the previous stage. The heat transfer coefficient by boiling increased with the increase in the tilt angle and heat input power. This increase was 67.54% for R134a at a heat input of 1.12 kW/m2 and a tilt angle of 90°. The increase amounted to 214.43% for 5.58 kW/m2 heat input.
Initiatives to increase breast and cervical cancer–related knowledge, screening, and health behaviours among Black women
Authors: Williams Camille , Goulbourne Elaine , Gyansa Elijah , Hashi Ayan , Khalil Ielaf , Khan Rumaisa , Rabel-Jeudy Patricia , Heisey Ruth , Lofters Aisha
Published: October 2024

Setting

In Canada, racialized and immigrant women are typically under-screened for breast and cervical cancer. Under-screening is linked to numerous barriers to access, including lack of awareness, fear of pain, the stigma of cancer, socio-cultural factors like language, and various socio-economic factors. To address these barriers, our team developed a series of initiatives to promote awareness of breast and cervical health among Black women.

Intervention

Building on the development of a breast cancer resource hub for Black women, and in partnership with relevant community organizations, we implemented a series of virtual educational and cancer screening events (two of each thus far). Both event series were targeted towards Black women and tailored to their needs.

Outcomes

Each educational event attracted more than 450 attendees and had average attendance times > 1 h. Most (> 87%) survey respondents agreed that an event specifically for Black women helped them feel supported. The 2022 and 2023 screening events provided breast and/or cervical cancer screening for 46 and 48 women, respectively. In both years, most women (> 90% of question respondents) noted that they were (extremely) likely to go for a mammogram or Pap test when next due.

Implications

Both event series provided targeted opportunities for Black women to learn about prevention, risk factors, resources, and screening related to women’s cancers. It is possible that, over time, such culturally tailored events can reduce or remove the stigmas associated with cancer and decrease differences in cancer-related knowledge and behaviours between racialized and non-racialized groups.
Aportaciones y limitaciones de la incorporación de la inteligencia artificial a los servicios sociales: Una revisión sistematizada
Authors: Vallejo Andrada Ana , Martí García Susana , Gómez Rasco Teresa , Ferri Fuentevilla Elena
Published: October 2024

En los últimos años, ha aumentado el interés científico en la generación del conocimiento entre los procesos automatizados de inteligencia artificial (IA) y los servicios sociales. Este artículo presenta una revisión sistematizada de la literatura existente entre 2009 y 2024 sobre el impacto de la inteligencia artificial (IA) en los servicios sociales. Su objetivo es examinar y analizar tanto las potencialidades y contribuciones como las limitaciones y desafíos asociados con la IA en este ámbito, con el propósito de proporcionar una visión integral que facilite su comprensión y aplicación. La revisión se centrará en estudios que investigan la implementación de la IA en los servicios sociales, considerando tanto los aspectos teóricos como prácticos. Entre los resultados del estudio se incluyen investigaciones que destacan el potencial transformador de la IA, así como aquellas que proponen modelos específicos para su implementación efectiva, prestando especial atención a los desafíos éticos, técnicos y prácticos que surgen con la incorporación de la IA en este ámbito. Finalmente, en el apartado de discusión, se lleva a cabo un análisis crítico de los datos recopilados, evaluando las implicaciones de los hallazgos y sugiriendo posibles trayectorias futuras para la implementación de la inteligencia artificial en los servicios sociales.
ATP Extraction & Measurement v1
Authors: Marin Mariano
Published: October 2024

Protocol for extracting and quantitatively measuring ATP content in cultured cells
INTERNATIONAL SECURITY ORGANIZATIONS IN THE FACE OF TRANSFORMATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL SECURITY SYSTEM
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Koppel Olena , Prystash Anastasiia ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: October 2024

This paper examines the activities of international security organisations such as NATO and the OSCE, as well as the cooperation within the EU and NATO to ensure security in Europe. Also, the authors analyse the Strategic Concepts of NATO's 2010 and 2022, and reviews changes in the main objectives of security institutions that have been reflected since Russia's large-scale invasion in Ukraine. The review of the activities of international security organizations demonstrates that the issue of their adaptation to current challenges and threats is crucial for the further preserving of the democratic order in the world. Simultaneously, the article emphasizes that due to the increasing number of military threats, there is a need to develop effective mechanisms for reforming security organizations to further preserve the international security system in general.
Genomic Data Privacy and the Right to Science: Issues of Balance
Authors: Berg L. N.
Published: October 2024

The paper examines the confidentiality of genomic data. According to the author, genomic data is a special concept in the field of personal data and requires increased regulatory guarantees of legal protection   and safeguards. In addition, the author considers the issue of the grounds for disclosure and use of this type of information. According to the researcher, this is possible only if there is a public interest in conducting scientific research that contributes to the implementation of the health function by the state. The right to science, enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights of 1948, can serve as a regulatory basis for this. The author notes   that this right has not yet been established at the level of national legislation, which significantly complicates its understanding and definition of restrictions in its implementation. The paper also emphasizes the uniqueness of genomic information, which is characterized by features of identifiability and relative danger. These features are specified by the author in terms of the purpose and scope of the use of genetic data, their informational content, as well as the degree of their influence on the rights of the relevant person. In conclusion, the author puts forward am idea of one best way to balance the right to science and genomic data privacy, through which it will be possible to ensure both effective legal protection and a stable course of scientific evolution and progress.