bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Training of Teachers for Teaching First Aid and Participants in its Provision in the Russian Federation: Organizational and Methodological Foundations
Authors:   National Medical and Surgical Center named after N.I. Pirogov of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, Kolodkin A.A. ,   Kuban State Medical University of the Ministry of Health Care of the Russian Federation, Krasnodar, Russia
Published: April 2024

Summary. The purpose of the study is to develop organizational and methodological approaches to the training of teachers for teaching first aid and participants in its provision in the Russian Federation. Materials and methods of research. Research materials – domestic and foreign experience in training and retraining of first aid participants; regulations governing the training of teachers to teach first aid. Research methods – literary-analytical, formal-legal and content analysis methods. Research results and their analysis. The stages of creating an Educational and Methodological Complex (EMC) on first aid and other educational materials formed on its basis that contribute to the unification of teaching first aid for various categories of the population are presented. Attention is paid to the components of teaching methods, teaching features and principles of first aid training. A summary table is presented – an organizational diagram of the fundamentals of personnel policy in the first aid system in the Russian Federation.
Emergency Situations in a Metropolis: Organization and Results of Providing Emergency Medical Care to Children with Thermal Injury
Authors:   Moscow Territorial Scientific and Practical Center for Disaster Medicine (TSEMP) of the Moscow City Health Department, Moscow, Russian Federation, Potapov V.I. , Budkevich L.I. ,   N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation,   Children’s City Clinical Hospital No. 9 named after G.N. Speranskiy, Moscow, Russian Federation, Gumenyuk S.A. ,   Moscow Territorial Scientific and Practical Center for Disaster Medicine (TSEMP) of the Moscow City Health Department, Moscow, Russian Federation, Oborkina D.S. ,   N.I. Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation, Sheptunov G.V. ,   Moscow Territorial Scientific and Practical Center for Disaster Medicine (TSEMP) of the Moscow City Health Department, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: April 2024

Summary. The purpose of the study is to analyze the organization and results of providing medical care to children (affected, patients) who received thermal injury in emergency situations (ES) in the metropolis. Materials and methods of research. Research materials – data contained in the automated information and analytical system “Disaster Medicine of the City of Moscow” of the Moscow Territorial Scientific and Practical Center for Disaster Medicine of the Moscow Department of Health (CEMP). Statistical data processing was performed using the StatTech program (Stattech LLC, Russia). During the research, the computing and graphic capabilities of Microsoft Office programs were used. When carrying out the study, historical, statistical and analytical methods were used. Research results and their analysis. Of the 285 children with thermal burns received in emergencies, 124 (43.5%) were pronounced dead at the scene of the event before the arrival of emergency medical services (EMS) and specialized emergency response teams. Of the 161 patients who received emergency medical care, 133 (82.6%) were referred to hospital; 28 (17.4%) – for outpatient follow-up treatment. 24.2% of the total number of patients who received medical care were in extremely serious and serious condition, including 3.1% who required invasive respiratory support. It was noted that in the prehospital period, in 20% of cases, the severity of the condition of patients subsequently hospitalized in the hospital was assessed incorrectly.
Optimization of the Work of Medical Specialists of Medical Organizations in the Conditions of Mass Admission of Victims during the Liquidation of the Medical and Sanitary Consequences of Emergency Situations
Authors:   Moscow Territorial Scientific and Practical Center for Disaster Medicine (TSEMP) of the Moscow City Health Department, Russian Federation, Bulanov S.M. , Gumenyuk S.A. ,   Moscow Territorial Scientific and Practical Center for Disaster Medicine (TSEMP) of the Moscow City Health Department, Russian Federation, Guskova O.V. ,   Moscow Territorial Scientific and Practical Center for Disaster Medicine (TSEMP) of the Moscow City Health Department, Russian Federation
Published: April 2024

Summary. The purpose of the study is to develop an action plan to prepare personnel of medical medical organizations (HMOs) to work in conditions of mass influx of victims in emergency situations (ES). Materials and methods of research. The research materials are the work experience of specialists from the Moscow Territorial Scientific and Practical Center for Disaster Medicine of the Moscow Department of Health (TSEMP) in the specified conditions and methodological literature on this problem. Research methods – analytical method and generalization method. Research results and their analysis. Possible mechanisms for the work of medical specialists of medical organizations in conditions of mass arrival of victims in emergencies are presented, problematic issues and ways to solve them are considered.
Study of cutting temperature during turningof high-hard cast irons
Authors: Bohdanov O , Derbaba V , Dubrovskyi S , Ruban V , Nazarenko N
Published: April 2024

Purpose. To study the forces and temperature in the cutting zone during machining of high-hard cast iron with special prefabricated cutters with brazed niborite and ciborite inserts. To determine the influence of geometric characteristics of the cutting tool, cutting modes and hardness of the material being machined on the temperature. The methods. The research methods were based on the basics of cutting theory and cutting tools, material science properties of the tool and the material being processed. The research stand with special equipment was used. Findings. The nature of the change in cutting forces temperature with depth t, feed rate S and cutting speed v was experimentally investigated. A non-contact method of measuring the temperature in the cutting zone during turning high-hard cast irons of different chemical composition with cutting inserts made of niborite and ciborite PSM has been substantiated. It is shown that different measurement conditions (turning modes, cutting geometry and the degree of blunting of the cutters, hardness and grade of the machined steel) do not allow determining the average proportionality coefficient CQ. The hardness of the material being machined affects the cutting forces and temperature. Under identical turning conditions for cast irons with a hardness of 220 to 610 HB, the temperature increases by 1,9 times. It has been experimentally established that with the growth of normal and tangential forces on the back surface of the cutter as its wear develops, an additional increase in the total cutting force and heat source power is observed –the temperature increases by 1,3 times. The originality. It was found that the increase in cutting temperature is associated with an outstripping increase in heat generation power over the heat removal rate (with a deterioration in the conditions of heat removal from the top of the blade). The influence of the geometric parameters of the tool and the hardness of the material being machined on the temperature during turning of high-hard cast irons has been proved. Practical implementation. The experimental data obtained will make it possible to develop a mathematical model taking into account the geometric parameters of the tool, the hardness of the material being processed, and the power and energy parameters of the cutting process.
Substantiation of the methodology for calculation of rope-capacity cylindrical drums of mine hoistmachine
Authors: Symonenko V
Published: April 2024

Purpose. To develop a simplified calculation method for the strengthened split cylindrical drums of mine hoisting machines of the TsR-6.75x6.2/1.95 type. To evaluate the application of the method for calculating the drum of a hoisting machine of a complicated design by averaging the elements. The methods. The drum structure of a mine hoisting machine is divided into ten nodes, eight of which include the shell, frontal, rib strengthening and brake discs (end nodes) and two more – the shaftwith hubs and bearing supports. Based on the analysis of the machine's operation, including an assessment of its stiffness under different types of load, simplified models are created for each component. The original drum assemblies are replaced with simplified ones in order to perform a general calculation to determine the maximum axial displacement of the brake disc edges. Findings. Based on the analysis of the mine hoisting machine operation, averaged models of hoist components were developed and axial displacements were successfully calculated for a simplified drum design. The originality. The error of the simplified calculation method, in particular, the method of averaging with increased thickness of the lobes, which allows obtaining more accurate results for complex structures, is estimated Practical implementation. Due to the need to increase the depth of mining, which leads to the need to expand the dimensions of the drum and complicate its design. In this case, the resource intensity of calculating the axial displacement of brake discs increases. This is necessary for the introduction of disc brakes. However, this complicates the use of standard mid-level computer-aided design tools due to the increase in the size of the finite element mesh, which makes its use impractical. The methodology can be used for mine hoisting machines of the following types TsR-6.75x6.2/1.95 with a split drum, 6750 mm in diameter and 6200 mm wide (of which 1950 mm is the interchangeable part), providing accurate calculations of brake disc edge displacements. This approach is particularly useful for use in mid-range software packages such as SolidWorks Simulation, eliminating the need for resource-intensive software.
Analisis Laporan Keuangan Sebagai Penilaian Kinerja Keuangan PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk
Authors: Aysa Imma Rokhmatul
Published: April 2024

Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk is one of the largest companies in Indonesia in the food industry with its business units engaged in food management. The rapid development of PT Indofood Sukses Makmur's business activities certainly requires investors and creditors as a source of funding. Both need to analyze the company's financial statements as a reference source of company financial health information. Based on the financial reports of PT Indofood Sukses Makmur Tbk for the period 2018 to 2022 there has been an increase in fluctuations even though in 2020 to 2021 Indonesia was hit by the covid 19 pandemic. This type of research is quantitative descriptive research with data sources of PT Indofood Sukses Makmur's financial reports as of December 31 of the year 2018 to 2022. The first result, the assessment of the financial performance of PT Indofood Sukses Makmur based on analysis of liquidity ratios using the current ratio, obtained that the value of the current ratio from 2018 to 2022 experienced fluctuating conditions but was still in the very good category, namely above number 1. Second, the results solvency ratio analysis using the Debt to Asset ratio (DAR), it was found that the DAR values â€‹â€‹from 2018 to 2022 were in the very good category, namely proficient under number 1. Third, profitability ratio analysis using the Return of Equity (ROE) ratio, it was found that the ROE value from 2018 to 2022 experiencing fluctuating conditions but still in the efficient category.
Tinjauan Etika Bisnis Syari’ah Terhadap Praktek Pembayaran Konsinyasi Antara Pihak Komisioner Dengan Pihak Distributor
Authors: Hanafi Yusron
Published: April 2024

This research examines the practice of Consignment practiced by some traders in the Ngawi large market, by asking the Distributor to send the goods needed by the Merchants. The practice of Consignment in the Ngawi Big Market between the merchants and the Commissioner is largely not in accordance with the rules of the Consignment discipline and the values in the axioms of Sharia Business Ethics. Therefore, this research wants to find out what is the reason why traders and distributors apply the Consignment system in their business activities. This research aims to provide an assessment based on Shari'ah Business Ethics on the behavior of traders and commissioners who apply the consignment system. The research method used is Qualitative with Inductive analysis and Normative approach. The results of the study state that the reason the traders apply the Consignment system is due to limited capital, while the reason the Distributor applies the consignment system is due to difficulties in selling their production goods. According to Shari'ah Business Ethics, the consignment practices carried out by traders in the Ngawi Big Market violate the values in Shari'ah Business Ethics such as Dzolim, fraud, and not keeping promises.
Exploring the Foundations of Islamic Education: Insights from Ibn Sina and Ibn Khaldun
Authors: Sabarudin Mohammad , Al Ayyubi Ibnu Imam , Rohmatulloh Rifqi , Suryana Irfan , Wijaya Tommy Tanu
Published: April 2024

Education is the application of philosophy and cannot be separated from one another. Education and philosophy are crucial in human life, including in Islamic education. Islamic education refers to the educational system and practices based on Islamic principles and values. The perspectives of Islamic education are motivated by various thoughts of Islamic figures and scientists sourced from the Qur'an. This study aims to explore the foundations of Islamic education according to Ibn Sina and Ibn Khaldun's perspectives and to show whether or not the perspectives can complete each other and are still relevant to education nowadays. The method used is a literature study with a qualitative approach. The data were presented as descriptive data based on the analysis of Ibn Sina and Ibn Khaldun from various sources, including documents and texts. The results show that Ibn Sina and Ibn Khaldun's perspectives have a specific pattern that complements each other and can be expanded in the modern era.
FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI AKUNTABILITAS PENGELOLAAN DANA DESA (STUDI KASUS KALURAHAN DENGAN IDM PREDIKAT MANDIRI DI KABUPATEN SLEMAN)
Authors: Vidya Vitta Adhivinna  , Raafi Astrian Yudhistira  , Ratna Purnama Sari  , Rahandhika Ivan Adyaksana
Published: April 2024

This study aims to test and obtain empirical evidence of the positive effect of transparency, the quality of village apparatus on the accountability of village fund management. This study uses primary data in the form of a survey by distributing questionnaires directly to 44 villages that received IDM with 352 respondents. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling technique with criteria based on Permendagri No. 20 of 2018. The data testing method is descriptive statistical test, data quality test, and hypothesis testing. The results of this study indicate that transparency, the quality of village officials, and the government's internal control system have a significant effect on the accountability of village fund management
Comparative analysis of crimes committed by convicts usingthe right of unrestricted movement, and crimes committed by other persons sentenced to imprisonment
Authors: Salamova Sebila
Published: April 2024

The article, based on the analysis of statistical data, shows the features of crimes committed by convicts who enjoy the right of unrestricted movement, and crimes committed by other prisoners sentenced to imprisonment, the scale of crime of those sentenced to imprisonment, its structure, dynamics and development trends. It is concluded that neither the indulgences associated with isolation, nor isolation from society itself, unfortunately, do not deter convicts from committing offenses and repeat crimes.
On the rational use of coercive measures and means of correction in the execution of deprivation of liberty
Authors: Mozhaykina Viktoria
Published: April 2024

The article reveals the main difficulties arising in the implementation of the principle of rational use of coercive measures and means of correction in the process of execution of a sentence in the form of imprisonment in Russia. With the help of the analysis of the main provisions of the penal enforcement legislation, official statistics, court decisions and the works of penitentiary scientists, the author’s opinion on the issues of improving the norms of the law and optimizing law enforcement practice is formulated. It is proved that the effective implementation of the principle of rational use of coercive measures will be ensured by the legislative imputation of the duty of photo and video recording of the fact of violations committed by convicts to employees of places of deprivation of liberty. The conclusion is made about the redundancy of the legislative definition of «basic» in relation to the characteristics of the means of correction of convicts. Reasoned and justified the expediency of establishing an open list of means of correction of convicts.
The content and features of the definition of the criminalizing sign “a significant violation of the rights and legitimate interests of citizens or organizations or the legally protected interests of society or the state” (by the example of Article 293 of the Criminal Code “Negligence»)
Authors: Rozovskaja Tat’jana , Emel’janova Elena , Petrjanin Aleksej
Published: April 2024

Using the example of Article 293 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation «Negligence», the article considers one of the directions of modern criminal policy, which has a complex theoretical and applied content devoted to the establishment of legally significant characteristics of socially dangerous consequences in the form of a significant violation of the rights and legitimate interests of citizens or organizations or the legally protected interests of society or the state. The category under study is assessed, its establishment is carried out both during the investigation of a criminal case and during the trial. It is noted that, taking into account the positions of the highest judicial instances, it is the level of materiality of the violation of rights and legitimate interests that is required and sufficient to recognize it as criminalizing. A significant violation of rights and legitimate interests includes: the severity of the moral, physical or property damage caused, the size and nature of the material damage caused, the degree of destructive impact on the work of organizations, etc. The complexity of attributing the non-material consequences to criminal negligence has been demonstrated. The necessity of developing their qualitative characteristics with subsequent consolidation in the relevant act of judicial interpretation is substantiated.
International Scientific and Practical Conference «Socio-legal aspects of parole: historical and foreign experience» (August 16, 2023)
Authors: Myakhanova Aleksandra , Skiba Andrey
Published: April 2024

On August 16, 2023, an international scientific and practical conference

«Socio-legal aspects of parole: historical and foreign experience» was held on the basis of the Dorzhi Banzarov Buryat State University. It was devoted to theory, legislation (including the recently adopted Federal Law «On Probation in the Russian Federation») and the practice of parole of convicts from serving their sentences, as well as historical, philosophical and other aspects of the application of this institution in Russia and foreign countries. The event was co-organized by the Academy of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia, the Union of Criminologists and Criminologists, the Government of the Republic of Buryatia, the Investigative Department of the Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation for the Republic of Buryatia and the Regional Branch of the All-Russian public organization «Association of Lawyers of Russia» in the Republic of Buryatia. A feature of the event was a wide range of analyzed social, law enforcement (including taking into account the regional peculiarities of the Republic of Buryatia), legal and theoretical issues related to the institution of parole, its significance in the criminal policy of our state and other countries.
PROBATION INSTITUTE: INTERNATIONAL EXPERIENCE OF FUNCTIONING
Authors: Yakovleva Margarita , Dvorzhickaja Marina
Published: April 2024

The article discusses the concept of probation, its purpose and objectives, as well as the relevance of the adoption of the relevant federal law in modern realities. It is noted that the probation institute is the most important tool for social adaptation, re-socialization, and social rehabilitation of convicts, but in our country it is at the initial stage of functioning. To determine the directions for improving this institution and the practice of its implementation, the international experience of probation is analyzed. It has been established that in a number of countries probation has been used for a long time, and helps prisoners to join social processes after release, and society to accept former convicts. Based on foreign experience, it is concluded that an effective measure to achieve the goal of probation is the creation of artificial conditions for prisoners’ self- government. Taking into account the constant digitalization of various spheres of public life, the creation of these conditions is proposed to be carried out using virtual reality programs for the education of convicts, the development of social skills, professional skills training, diagnostics and correction of behavior of convicts.
Cálculo Diferencial e Integral na Graduação em Matemática: Contribuições da Resolução de Problemas e da Análise da Produção Escrita
Authors: Rodrigues Luciana Ávila , Pina Neves Regina da Silva , Dörr Raquel Carneiro
Published: April 2024

No contexto de um curso de Cálculo Diferencial e Integral, o presente estudo teve como objetivos analisar a produção escrita de estudantes de graduação em matemática ao resolverem problemas de otimização e compreender as potencialidades dessas análises para a intervenção pedagógica. Para tanto, estudantes ingressantes de uma instituição pública responderam a dois problemas de otimização. Os resultados mostram que os estudantes, em sua maioria, apresentaram dificuldades conceituais em tópicos curriculares, como propriedades de quadriláteros, cálculos de área e perímetro, equações e funções; poucos perceberam o valor de se utilizar conceitos do ensino médio como ferramentas de aproximação aos conceitos e à linguagem matemática do cálculo. As análises foram essenciais enquanto estratégia didática para o planejamento de intervenções pedagógicas específicas, desenvolvidas ao longo do semestre letivo.
Designing Learning Analytics Dashboards for Digital Learning Environments: Investigating Learner Preferences, Usage, and Self-Efficacy
Authors:   , Gallagher Timothy
Published: April 2024

This dissertation, a product of the European Union's CHARMING project, investigates the intersection of technology and learning, focusing on the design of learning analytics for lifelong learning. It emphasizes the importance of effective learning design and the innovative use of technology in digital learning environments.

Chapter 1 presents the problem statement, highlighting the knowledge gap related to learning analytics design and the overarching research question: How does learning analytics dashboard (LAD) design influence learner preferences, interaction, and self-efficacy in training and education?

Chapter 2 investigates workplace learner preferences for LADs designed for different phases of the self-regulated learning (SRL) cycle. The study reveals a preference for progress reference frames before and after task performance, while social reference frames are least preferred.

Chapter 3 examines the impact of LADs with progress and social reference frames on occupational self-efficacy in virtual reality simulation-based training environments. The findings suggest that both reference frames could elicit equal change in self-efficacy, with social reference frames potentially inducing more significant change.

Chapter 4 analyzes log-file data to understand chemical plant employees' engagement with LADs. The results indicate that progress reference frames might foster mastery goal orientation behaviors, while social reference frames seem to promote performance goal orientation behaviors.

Chapter 5 investigates the impact of LAD reference frame type and direction of comparison on academic self-efficacy among university students. The findings highlight the influence of both comparison type and direction on changes in academic self-efficacy.

Chapter 6 discusses the main research findings, theoretical and practical implications, limitations, and future research opportunities. The dissertation contributes to the understanding of LAD design and its influence on learning-related variables, providing valuable insights for educational stakeholders and researchers.

This dissertation advances the understanding of learning analytics dashboard design and its impact on learner preferences, interaction, and self-efficacy in various educational contexts. The findings provide a foundation for future research and the development of more effective digital learning environments.
The Association Study of DRD2, ACE and AGT Gene Polymorphisms and Metamphetamine Dependence
Authors: Šerý O , Vojtová V , Zvolský P
Published: April 2024

We investigated the association between metamphetamine dependence and TaqI A polymorphism of the dopamine receptor D2 gene (DRD2), I/D polymorphism in angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and M235T polymorphism of the angiotensinogen gene (AGT) in 93 unrelated metamphetamine-dependent subjects and 131 controls. Our results did not prove any association of TaqI A polymorphism of the DRD2 gene, I/D polymorphism of ACE gene, and M235T polymorphism of AGT gene with the metamphetamine dependence in Caucasians of Czech origin. However, a significant difference in allele I frequency between male and female control groups for the I/D ACE polymorphism (p<0.03) was found.
Metabolism of Branched-Chain Amino Acids in Starved Rats: The Role of Hepatic Tissue
Authors: Holeček M , Šprongl L , Tilšer I
Published: April 2024

Parameters of branched-chain amino acids (BCAA; leucine, isoleucine and valine) and protein metabolism were evaluated using L-[1-14C]leucine and a-keto[1-14C]isocaproate (KIC) in the whole body and in isolated perfused liver (IPL) of rats fed ad libitum or starved for 3 days. Starvation caused a significant increase in plasma BCAA levels and a decrease in leucine appearance from proteolysis, leucine incorporation into body proteins, leucine oxidation, leucine-oxidized fraction, and leucine clearance. Protein synthesis decreased significantly in skeletal muscle and the liver. There were no significant differences in leucine and KIC oxidation by IPL. In starved animals, a significant increase in net release of BCAA and tyrosine by IPL was observed, while the effect on other amino acids was non-significant. We conclude that the protein-sparing phase of uncomplicated starvation is associated with decreased whole-body proteolysis, protein synthesis, branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) oxidation, and BCAA clearance. The increase in plasma BCAA levels in starved animals results in part from decreased BCAA catabolism, particularly in heart and skeletal muscles, and from a net release of BCAA by the hepatic tissue.
Effects of transdermal application of 7-oxo-dhea on the levels of steroid hormones, gonadotropins and lipids in healthy men
Authors: Šulcová J , Hill M , Mašek Z , Češka R , Nováček A , Hampl R , Stárka L
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of 7-oxo-DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) on the serum levels of steroid sexual hormones, gonadotropins, lipids and lipoproteins in men. 7-oxo-DHEA was applied onto the skin as a gel to 10 volunteers aged 27 to 72 years for 5 consecutive days. The single dose contained 25 mg 7-oxo-DHEA. Serum concentrations of testosterone, estradiol, cortisol, androstenedione, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), total cholesterol, HDL- and LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, apolipoprotein A-I and B and lipoprotein(a) were measured before the beginning and shortly after the end of the steroid application. After the treatment, we noted the following significant changes: a decline of testosterone and estradiol levels, increase of LH, HDL-cholesterol and apolipoprotein A-I levels. The decrease of total cholesterol levels was of the borderline significance. A slight but significant increase was found in apolipoprotein B and lipoprotein(a). The most expressive was the fall of the atherogenic index. We suggest that the gel containing 7-oxo-DHEA might be a suitable drug for improving the composition of the steroid and lipid parameters in elderly men.
Urological injuries following gynecologic surgery: clinical manifestations, diagnosis and management
Authors: Ziogou Afroditi , Giannakodimos Alexios , Giannakodimos Ilias , Manikas Aggelos , Ziogos Eleftherios
Published: April 2024

Iatrogenic urinary tract injury constitutes a rare but serious complication of gynecologic surgery, occurring in 0.3% to 1.5% of all procedures. Delayed diagnosis and repair are associated with increased postoperative morbidity, mortality and a long-term negative impact on the quality of life. Intraoperative detection of urinary tract injuries allows for prompt repair, facilitates management and speeds up recovery. Bladder injuries are 3 times more common than ureteral injuries, and usually are recognized and repaired immediately with minimal complications. Undetected ureteral injuries lead to severe postoperative complications such as the formation of genitourinary fistulas, sepsis, renal loss and death. In this review we aim to describe the postoperative clinical manifestations, the diagnostic methods and therapeutic strategies for the management of urinary tract injuries, whether in the acute or delayed setting, in an effort to reduce the potential impact of subsequent complications to both patient and surgeon. Timely and effective repair of urinary tract injuries is critical to improve patient outcome, mitigate litigation risk, and allow an uneventful postoperative recovery in a careful manner.
Prime Matter and the Quantum Wavefunction
Authors: Koons Robert C.
Published: April 2024

Prime matter plays an indispensable role in Aristotle’s philosophy, enabling him to avoid the pitfalls of both naïve Platonism and nominalism. Prime matter is best thought of as a kind of infinitely divisible and atomless bare particularity, grounding the distinctness of distinct members of the same species. Such bare particularity is needed in symmetrical situations, like a world consisting of indistinguishable Max Black spheres. Bare particularity is especially important in modern physics, given the homogeneity and isotropy of space. With the importance of fields in classical, relativistic, and quantum physics, we have good reason to prefer something like Aristotle’s continuous, infinitely divisible matter over indivisible particles. Mass and energy in relativistic physics also points in the direction of prime matter as the enduring substrate of these quantities. Recent work on Aristotelian interpretations of quantum mechanics, further underscores the contemporary relevance of prime matter.
An App for Tree Trunk Diameter Estimation from Coarse Optical Depth Maps
Authors: Feng Zhengpeng , Xie Mingyue , Holcomb Amelia , Keshav Srinivasan
Published: April 2024

Trunk diameter is related to the overall health and level of carbon sequestration in a tree. Trunk diameter measurement, therefore, is a key task in both forest plot and urban settings. Unlike the traditional approach of manual measurement with a measuring tape or calipers, several recent approaches rely on sophisticated technologies such as Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS), LiDAR, and time-of-flight sensors that provide fine-grain depth maps, which are used for depth-assisted image segmentation in downstream processing. These technologies are supported only on specialized devices or high-end smartphones. We present a mobile application that uses coarse-grain depth maps derived from an optical sensor, and so can be run on most common Android devices. Moreover, we use a state-of-the-art deep neural network to estimate trunk diameter from an image and its corresponding coarse depth map (RGB-D). We tested our app using a dataset collected from four countries and under challenging conditions including occlusion, leaning trees, and irregular shapes and found that our algorithm has a MAE of 2.58 cm and an RMSE of 3.57 cm, which is comparable to accuracy from fine-grain depth maps. Moreover, diameter measurement using our app is more than 5 times faster than traditional manual surveying.
Mitigating risk of credit non-delivery in nature-based climate solutions by optimally anticipating carbon release
Authors: Rau E-Ping , Gross James , Coomes David , Swinfield Thomas , Madhavapeddy Anil , Balmford Andrew , Keshav Srinivasan
Published: April 2024

Nature-based climate solutions supply carbon credits generated from net carbon drawdown in exchange for project funding, but their credibility is challenged by the inherent variability and impermanence of drawdown. By evaluating drawdown benefits from a social cost of carbon perspective, project developers can enhance credibility and estimate impermanence by conservatively anticipating drawdowns to be eventually released following a release schedule, issuing additional credits when actual release is less severe than anticipated. We demonstrate how we can use ex post observations of drawdowns to construct optimal release schedules that limit the risk of failing to generate credits (non-delivery). We simulate both theoretical and real-life projects to examine how this approach balances the trade-off between generating credits evaluated as more permanent and limiting non-delivery risk. We discuss how this approach incentivises project performance and provides a pragmatic solution to challenges facing larger-scale implementation of nature-based climate solutions.
Measures to affect the elimination behaviour of fattening pigs in a conventional housing system
Authors: Höne Ulrike , Schrader Lars , Hölscher Richard , Traulsen Imke , Krause E. Tobias
Published: April 2024

Pigs try to separate their lying area from the dunging area. However, due to several factors such as pen design, increasing ambient temperatures, or lack of space, pigs often lie in the dunging area or defaecate in the lying area, resulting in increased pen and animal soiling. Besides poor hygienic conditions, this may also lead to increased ammonia emissions. Thus, proper changes to support the structure of conventional pens may help facilitate better elimination behaviour of pigs and establish and maintain their functional areas, including dunging areas. In this study, we investigated the effect of measures to help pigs use pre-defined functional areas. The study was done on a conventional farm in pens with fully slatted floors. Pen and animal soiling was recorded by a scoring scheme in a total of 37 pens during two fattening periods. In the first fattening period (baseline period), the pen design remained unchanged to evaluate the status quo. In the second fattening period (treatment period), certain changes in 16 test pens were done to structure the pen into a designated dunging and a resting area. The remaining 21 pens served as control pens. Changes included installation of LED spotlights, partly open pen partitions, and re-arrangement of nipple drinkers and hay racks. To compare the soiling of pens, the difference in pen soiling was calculated both between the baseline and the treatment periods and the control and test pens. As a first step, the difference in pen soiling between the control and test pens within both fattening periods was compared. Additionally, to control for changes in pen soiling over time, the differences between the pen soiling of the control pens during the baseline period and the treatment period were compared. The same comparison was done for the test pens. In the treatment period, no significant difference in the pen soiling between the control pens and test pens was found. However, over time, i.e., comparing the soiling of test pens and control pens between the baseline and the treatment periods, pigs soiled the designated dunging areas more in the treatment period. The fattening pigs in both the test and the control pens were very clean during both fattening periods. Our pen modification treatment that combined changes in LED spotlights, drinker locations, roughage locations, and partly open pen partitions did not result in clear effects. However, we can not rule out that these features can help to structure the pens in a positive way.
Segment selection for fusion and artificial disc replacement in the hybrid surgical treatment of noncontiguous cervical spondylosis: a finite element analysis
Authors: Sun Xiangyao , Huang Jiang , Zhang Qingming , Cao Li , Liu Yuqi , Song Zelong , Tang Wei , Sun Siyuan , Wang Juyong
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The treatment of skip-level cervical degenerative disease (CDD) with no degenerative changes observed in the intervening segment (IS) is complicated. This research aims to provide a reference basis for selecting treatment approaches for noncontiguous CDD.

Methods: To establish accurate finite element models (FEMs), this study included computed tomography (CT) data from 21 patients with CDD (10 males and 11 females) for modeling. The study primarily discusses four cross-segment surgical approaches: upper (C3/4) anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) and lower (C5/6) cervical disc arthroplasty (CDA), FA model; upper CDA (C3/4) and lower ACDF (C5/6), AF model; upper ACDF (C3/4) and lower ACDF (C5/6), FF model; upper CDA (C3/4) and lower CDA (C5/6), AA model. An initial axial load of 73.6 N was applied at the motion center using the follower load technique. A moment of 1.0 Nm was applied at the center of the C2 vertebra to simulate the overall motion of the model. The statistical analysis was conducted using STATA version 14.0. Statistical significance was defined as a p value less than 0.05.

Results: The AA group had significantly greater ROM in flexion and axial rotation in other segments compared to the FA group (p < 0.05). The FA group consistently exhibited higher average intervertebral disc pressure in C2/3 during all motions compared to the AF group (p < 0.001); however, the FA group displayed lower average intervertebral disc pressure in C6/7 during all motions (p < 0.05). The AA group had lower facet joint contact stresses during extension in all segments compared to the AF group (p < 0.05). The FA group exhibited significantly higher facet joint contact stresses during extension in C2/3 (p < 0.001) and C6/7 (p < 0.001) compared to the AF group.

Discussion: The use of skip-level CDA is recommended for the treatment of non-contiguous CDD. The FA construct shows superior biomechanical performance compared to the AF construct.
Zinc-energized dynamic hydrogel accelerates bone regeneration via potentiating the coupling of angiogenesis and osteogenesis
Authors: Lv Nanning , Zhou Zhangzhe , Hong Lihui , Li Hongye , Liu Mingming , Qian Zhonglai
Published: April 2024

Insufficient initial vascularization plays a pivotal role in the ineffectiveness of bone biomaterials for treating bone defects. Consequently, enhancing the angiogenic properties of bone repair biomaterials holds immense importance in augmenting the efficacy of bone regeneration. In this context, we have successfully engineered a composite hydrogel capable of promoting vascularization in the process of bone regeneration. To achieve this, the researchers first prepared an aminated bioactive glass containing zinc ions (AZnBg), and hyaluronic acid contains aldehyde groups (HA-CHO). The composite hydrogel was formed by combining AZnBg with gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and HA-CHO through Schiff base bonding. This composite hydrogel has good biocompatibility. In addition, the composite hydrogel exhibited significant osteoinductive activity, promoting the activity of ALP, the formation of calcium nodules, and the expression of osteogenic genes. Notably, the hydrogel also promoted umbilical vein endothelial cell migration as well as tube formation by releasing zinc ions. The results of in vivo study demonstrated that implantation of the composite hydrogel in the bone defect of the distal femur of rats could effectively stimulate bone generation and the development of new blood vessels, thus accelerating the bone healing process. In conclusion, the combining zinc-containing bioactive glass with hydrogels can effectively promote bone growth and angiogenesis, making it a viable option for the repair of critical-sized bone defects.
Epigenome-wide association study identifies DNA methylation loci associated with handgrip strength in Chinese monozygotic twins
Authors: Luo Jia , Wang Weijing , Li Jingxian , Duan Haiping , Xu Chunsheng , Tian Xiaocao , Zhang Dongfeng
Published: April 2024

Background: The decline in muscle strength and function with aging is well recognized, but remains poorly characterized at the molecular level. Here, we report the epigenetic relationship between genome-wide DNA methylation and handgrip strength (HGS) among Chinese monozygotic (MZ) twins.

Methods: DNA methylation (DNAm) profiling was conducted in whole blood samples through Reduced Representation Bisulfite Sequencing method. Generalized estimating equation was applied to regress the DNAm of each CpG with HGS. The Genomic Regions Enrichment of Annotations Tool was used to perform enrichment analysis. Differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were detected using comb-p. Causal inference was performed using Inference about Causation through Examination of Familial Confounding method. Finally, we validated candidate CpGs in community residents.

Results: We identified 25 CpGs reaching genome-wide significance level. These CpGs located in 9 genes, especially FBLN1, RXRA, and ABHD14B. Many enriched terms highlighted calcium channels, neuromuscular junctions, and skeletal muscle organ development. We identified 21 DMRs of HGS, with several DMRs within FBLN1, SLC30A8, CST3, and SOCS3. Causal inference indicated that the DNAm of 16 top CpGs within FBLN1, RXRA, ABHD14B, MFSD6, and TYW1B might influence HGS, while HGS influenced DNAm at two CpGs within FBLN1 and RXRA. In validation analysis, methylation levels of six CpGs mapped to FLBN1 and one CpG mapped to ABHD14B were negatively associated with HGS weakness in community population.

Conclusion: Our study identified multiple DNAm variants potentially related to HGS, especially CpGs within FBLN1 and ABHD14B. These findings provide new clues to the epigenetic modification underlying muscle strength decline.
Luminescent Ln3+-based silsesquioxanes with a β-diketonate antenna ligand: toward the design of efficient temperature sensors
Authors: Félix Gautier , Kulakova Alena N. , Sene Saad , Khrustalev Victor N. , Hernández-Rodríguez Miguel A. , Shubina Elena S. , Pelluau Tristan , Carlos Luís D. , Guari Yannick , Carneiro Neto Albano N. , Bilyachenko Alexey N. , Larionova Joulia
Published: April 2024

We report the synthesis and single-crystal X-ray diffraction, magnetic, and luminescence measurements of a novel family of luminescent cage-like tetranuclear silsesquioxanes (PhSiO1.5)8(LnO1.5)4(O)(C5H8O2)6(EtOH)2(CH3CN)2⋅2CH3CN (where Ln = Tb, 1; Tb/Eu, 2; and Gd, 3), featuring seven-coordinated lanthanide ions arranged in a one-capped trigonal prism geometry. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibit characteristic Tb3+ and Tb3+/Eu3+-related emissions, respectively, sensitized by the chelating antenna acetylacetonate (acac) ligands upon excitation in the UV and visible spectral regions. Compound 3 is used to assess the energies of the triplet states of the acac ligand. For compound 1, theoretical calculations on the intramolecular energy transfer and multiphonon rates indicate a thermal balance between the 5D4 Stark components, while the mixed Tb3+/Eu3+ analog 2, with a Tb:Eu ratio of 3:1, showcases intra-cluster Tb3+-to-Eu3+ energy transfer, calculated theoretically as a function of temperature. By utilizing the intensity ratio between the 5D4→7F5 (Tb3+) and 5D0→7F2 (Eu3+) transitions in the range 11–373 K, we demonstrate the realization of a ratiometric luminescent thermometer with compound 2, operating in the range 11–373 K with a maximum relative sensitivity of 2.0% K−1 at 373 K. These findings highlight the potential of cage-like silsesquioxanes as versatile materials for optical sensing-enabled applications.
Deciphering the epidemiological dynamics: Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence in mainland China’s food animals, 2010-2023
Authors: Yang Zipeng , Yuan Hao , Nie Linchong , Wen Qingyuan , Li Haoxin , Yang Liulu , Song Yining , Luo Xun , Zhang Xiu-Xiang , Yuan Zi-Guo
Published: April 2024

Background

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is a significant protozoan pathogen among food animals. Despite the threat to public health by T. gondii infections, there’s limited understanding of its seroprevalence and trends in food animals across mainland China. This study aimed to estimate the seroprevalence of T. gondii infections among swine, sheep, goats, chickens, and cattle in mainland China from 2010 to 2023.

Methods

We searched cross-sectional studies published between 2010 and 2023 that reported the prevalence of T. gondii in food animals from databases including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China Biology Medicine Disc (CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang data, and the China Science and Technology Journal Database (CQVIP). We performed subgroup analyses to explore the impact of different factors on the seroprevalence of T. gondii. Pooled estimates of T. gondii seroprevalence were calculated with a random-effects model.

Results

An analysis of 184 studies involving 211985 animals revealed a T. gondii overall seroprevalence of 15.3% (95% CI: 13.1-17.8). Although the seroprevalence of food animals across mainland China was relatively stable from 2010 to 2023, notable variations were observed across different animal types and regions (P < 0.01), along with changes in geographical distribution. Sample type, detection method, animal age, and history of abortion were identified as key risk factors for T. gondii seroprevalence.

Conclusion

The study conducted a meta-analysis on the seroprevalence of T. gondii in mainland China’s Food Animals from 2010 to 2023, and identified key risk factors. These findings advance our understanding of T. gondii infection dynamics, offering critical insights for developing control strategies and guiding public health policies.