bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internet Addiction and Social Anxiety Among Eighth Grade Students
Authors: KÖLE Gamze SARIGÜZEL , YILMAZ Emine ALTUN
Published: December 2024

Objective: This descriptive research was conducted to determine the relationship between internet addiction and social anxiety among 8th grade students.
Results: A total of 416 students aged 12-15, attending the 8th grade in 2020-2021, 56.2% of whom are girls and 63.9% of whom are boys were included in the study. "Internet Addiction Scale" (IAS), "Social Anxiety Scale for Adolescents" (SASA) and "Personal Information Form" were used as data collection tools in the research. In statistical evaluation of the data, t test, analysis of variance, Tukey post test, linear regression analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient analysis were used. The participants were found to be normal internet users with a total mean score of 27.59±9.05 points from Young Internet Addiction Scale Short Form. The students received a total score of 40.59±16.01 from the SIAS and their social anxiety level was low
Conclusion: A significant positive relationship was found between students' internet addiction and social anxiety level. The results of this research show that adolescents are in the risk group for internet addiction. It should not be overlooked that adolescents are a risk group in terms of addiction, and seminars should be organized in schools to help them use the internet correctly and effectively.
Future Changes in Diurnal Cycle of Precipitation Due to Global Warming in Jakarta
Authors: Nosaka Masaya , Murata Akihiko , Sasaki Hidetaka
Published: December 2024

Global warming may lead to future changes in the diurnal cycle of precipitation in Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia. Such changes were investigated using a high-resolution regional climate model under RCP8.5. Average temperatures around Indonesia are projected to be approximately 3 K higher than those of the present climate. Annual precipitation is not expected to increase over the entire region. However, an increasing trend of + 27% in annual maximum daily precipitation was observed. Jakarta has a characteristic diurnal precipitation cycle, with precipitation occurring at a fixed time owing to the convergence of the monsoon and land breeze. In the future, the northerly monsoon blowing over Java will strengthen. The precipitation zone around Jakarta is projected to remain stagnant for an extended period owing to the weakening of the land breeze because the temperature increase over land is more pronounced than that over the ocean. Changes in the location of this precipitation zone will affect the diurnal cycle of precipitation in Jakarta. Future changes in the land breeze and monsoon, both of which are local phenomena, will affect the Jakarta precipitation region.
The ART of BARD: The Role of Domain Selection and the Background Field on Atmospheric River Tracking (ART) of BARD over the pan-Atlantic
Authors: Thandlam Venugopal , Rutgersson Anna , Sahlee Erik
Published: December 2024

Over the past decade, the number of methods for Atmospheric River (AR) detection has increased, highlighting the growing understanding that uncertainty in detection may affect scientific knowledge. This study evaluates and validates the regional scale implementation of Bayesian AR Detector (BARD), a statistical machine learning model developed to reduce the uncertainty in AR tracking (ART), using three different horizontal and vertical domains of background integrated water-vapour transport (IVT) field and focusing on the pan-Atlantic region during 1940-2022 using ERA5 data. The consistency in seasonal AR Probability (ARP) and IVT differences across 3 model runs indicates that all configurations capture the general seasonal cycle of ARs, with enhanced activity and moisture transport in the midlatitudes during winter. However, discrepancies in selected IVT backgrounds and domains led to anomalies’ magnitude and spatial distribution, particularly in AR detection probability and AR IVT over Western and Northern Europe. These discrepancies among model runs are large over the ocean where ARs take shape and are consistent in climate modes such as a strong positive El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO+) of 2015-2016. This reflects the robust and inherent differences in how each configuration maps AR dimensions and their associated transport processes. Further, these biases in AR mapping across model runs led to higher differences in AR-induced precipitation, wind speed, and temperature in Northern Europe and Scandinavia. This comparison underscores the importance of evaluating model configurations to assess uncertainties in AR representation under varying IVT background fields across regional domains and climate conditions.
Mediation Effect of Foreign Direct Investment through Trade Liberalization on economic growth in Asian countries.
Authors: Phoo Wut Hmone
Published: December 2024

The majority of economists agree with the fact that trade freedom and economic development are strongly and favourably correlated. The goal of trade freedom is to help economies reach their macroeconomic objectives, particularly strong economic growth. Many nations now understand how crucial it is to draw in foreign direct investment (FDI) in order to boost economic growth and revitalisation. This has provided signals to many countries to work on developing favourable conditions to promote FDI, and identifying the key determinants of FDI becomes a very crucial task for the policymakers. Moreover, the role of governance has gained more attention nowadays, and many investors around the world are now looking for a better and safer business environment for their investments. In view of this fact, the author investigates the effect of trade liberalisation and foreign direct investment (FDI) on economic growth across 48 Asian countries by using the annual data set from 2000 to 2022. Regressed using the following methods: Fixed Effects model by objective approach to analyse the data. The main objective is to examine the relationship between trade liberalisation and FDI inflows and economic growth in Asian countries. The result indicates an indirect effect. lnTLlnFDI demonstrates a positive and significant relationship between trade liberalisation and foreign direct investment (FDI) in their combined effect on economic output (lnGDP). The author's findings provide important insights into the relationship between trade, FDI, and economic growth in Asian countries. These results also have important implications for policymakers in designing and implementing effective trade and investment policies for sustained and inclusive economic development across the region.
Evaluating key financials of public versus private sector banks in India: An investment perspective
Authors: Parab Sanjeeta , Marathe Shripad , Lynette Linson Lynessa , Korgaonkar Sankeeta , Narvekar Prameeta
Published: December 2024

India’s banking sector, with its mix of public and private banks, presents diverse opportunities from an investment perspective. The relative performance of public and private sector banks is a crucial consideration when optimizing investment allocation strategies. Much academic debate has centered around the comparative performance of the public versus private sector, with conflicting findings. This study aims to analyze the financial performance of public versus private banks in India from a comparative investment perspective. To analyze the financial performance of public and private banks in India from an investment perspective, the Net Interest Margin ratio, Gross Non-Performing asset ratio, Net Non-Performing asset ratio, Current Account Savings Account (CASA) ratio, and total deposit over ten years from 2014–2023 are employed. The findings of the study state that the Net Interest Margin range of private sector banks extends from 6.06% to 2.76%, while the range of public banks begins at 2.66% and goes as low as 2.06%. The gross and net non-performing asset ratios witness higher consistency in asset quality and better risk management in the private sector. However, public sector banks, led by the State Bank of India, maintain dominance in total deposits. While both sectors perform on par in the Current Account Savings Account ratio analysis, the hold of the public sector, especially the State Bank of India, in terms of total deposits, is indisputable. The study concludes that private sector banks demonstrate superior efficiency to public sector banks in India, particularly in profitability, risk management, and asset quality.
AcknowledgmentThe authors acknowledge everyone who contributed to the study, particularly Goa Business School and Goa University.
 
Socio-Cultural Worldview of Soviet Collective Farmers in Mid-1930s as Reported by Students of Sverdlov Communist Agricultural University
Authors: Tikhomirov Nikita V.
Published: December 2024

The mentality of Russian peasants underwent a fundamental transformation during the late collectivization. These changes were reflected in reports made by students of the Moscow All-Union Communist Agricultural University in 1934–1936 during their annual summer practices on collective and state farms or in tractor depots of Central Russia. The documents demonstrated a great information potential as a source on the Soviet rural history in the period of turbulent social transformations. The theoretical part of the research relied on the historical and anthropological approach that focuses on the human dimension in the history of social development. The empirical part included several dozen reports stored in the State Archive of the Russian Federation. The students’ reports described anti-technical and anti-machine sentiments in rural workers, who demonstrated a general reactionary attitude to Soviet culture. Collective farmers were only superficially familiar with the new approaches to organized farming labor. As a result, they gave their own meanings and interpretations to the new concepts. Farmers in retrogressive collective farms mistrusted machine technology. They lacked the necessary skills to use machines and were not aware of their benefits. It took new values and skills a long time to take root in the peasant environment: the new worldview coexisted with the old morals and habits, which endured the blunt propaganda and administrative pressure. The resulting clash of rural and urban attitudes illuminated the gap between the traditions and the revolutionary ideology. These findings expand the scientific ideas about the everyday life, customs, and worldview of Russian peasants during the early years of Socialism.
Passport System Campaign in the Closed Cities of Kuzbass in 1933
Authors: Ablazhey Natalia N.
Published: December 2024

In 1933, Kuzbass entered the national passport system project to become one of its leaders in Western Siberia. Modernization proceeded here at an accelerated rate and had a pronounced industrial character. The article describes the passport system campaign in the so-called closed cities of Kuzbass in 1933. The list included young industrial centres of all-union significance, e.g., Stalinsk, Prokopievsk, Leninsk-Kuznetsk, and AnzheroSudzhensk. On the one hand, the passport system was a national project; on the other hand, it was a mobilization and repressive campaign. The author identified the features of the nationwide policy in the field of registration and passportization and characterized its dynamics in Siberia in 1932–1940. The essence of the passport regime and its structural elements, including passport restrictions, was defined by correlating the statuses of passported and non-passported communities. The analysis of the regional passport system policy revealed the mechanism of introducing a nationwide system of administrative registration, bureaucracy practices, and repressive measures in a region with a rapid migration and urbanization. A set of archival materials on militia activities made it possible to describe the goals and mechanisms of introducing of the passport system, as well as to identify its regional specifics, quantitative parameters, and public response. The documents were obtained from the State Archive of the Novosibirsk Region, collection of the West Siberian Regional Committee of the All-Union Communist Party (Bolsheviks). In 1933, the passported population was 214,000 people; more than 27,000 people left the cities; 4,189 people were deported.
CFD simulation of turbulent mass transfer of H2S and O2 in a stirring tank
Authors: Teuber Katharina , Dixit Abhinav , Hinkelmann Reinhard
Published: December 2024

This study explores the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation of oxygen (O2) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) mass transfer in a highly turbulent stirring tank. Using the open-source software OpenFOAM, we extended three-dimensional two-phase flow solvers with a rotating mesh feature to model the mass transfer processes between the water and air phases. The accuracy of these simulations was validated against experimental data, demonstrating a strong agreement in the mass transfer rates of H2S and O2. The investigation highlights the impact of turbulence on mass transfer coefficients, confirming the reliability of the solvers for predicting mass transfer in turbulent conditions. The results suggest that these CFD models can serve as effective tools for understanding and optimizing sewer system designs. Additionally, the study highlights the potential of numerical simulations to reduce the need for extensive and potentially hazardous laboratory experiments.
As estratégias de regulação emocional de estudantes de licenciatura
Authors: Pellisson Sofia , Boruchovitch Evely
Published: December 2024

A regulação emocional refere-se ao monitoramento e à modificação das emoções e é essencial para o processo de aprendizagem. O objetivo do presente artigo foi identificar as estratégias de regulação emocional de 295 estudantes de licenciaturas e investigar as relações dessas estratégias com as variáveis demográficas (gênero e idade) e de vida acadêmica dos participantes (curso, turno e semestre). Buscou-se ainda examinar quais características da amostra seriam preditoras do relato de uso das estratégias. Os dados foram coletados utilizando um questionário de caracterização e uma escala de estratégias de regulação emocional. Diferentes estratégias foram reportadas, como externalização e isolamento. Emergiram diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre as estratégias relatadas e as variáveis de interesse. O gênero, a área de conhecimento e o semestre foram preditores do relato de algumas estratégias para regular a tristeza, a raiva e a alegria. Espera-se que os resultados contribuam com ações formativas para o aprimoramento da regulação emocional de professores em formação.
FILHAS E FILHOS DE ANANSE
Authors: Dantas Luis Thiago Freire
Published: December 2024

Este ensaio tratará da singularidade da Filosofia Africana no Brasil como um discurso em “pretuguês”. Para ilustrar esse discurso, partimos da narrativa akan de Kwaku Ananse e expomos como as diferentes temáticas compõem uma teia tal como uma troca de argumentações entre as dimensões da história, da política e da cultura. Essa composição é suscitada pela diáspora africana, interpretada aqui como um elemento provocador de uma percepção outra de filosofia e de um projeto de humanidade. Por fim, este ensaio apresenta como o discurso filosófico em pretuguês faz da Filosofia Africana uma experiência pluriversal e repleta de diversas vozes.
TEATRO, EDUCAÇÃO E BEM VIVER
Authors: Menezes Thazio , Rodrigues Bezerra André Luiz
Published: December 2024

Esta pesquisa propõe pensar um traçado de pistas que poderá ser utilizado em contextos formais e informais de educação no intuito de apre(e)nder novas formas relacionais - de organização social, corporal e de práticas políticas – que abarquem um estilo de vida sustentável, inspiradas nos ideais do Bem Viver de Alberto Acosta (2019). A construção desse pensamento partirá de práticas corporais fundadas no Teatro Ritual (HADERCHPECK, 2020), na Poética dos Elementos (HADERCHPECK, 2016) e nas proposições do Bem Viver, pretendendo-se, assim, instigar o imaginário de alunos e alunas quanto a possíveis caminhos de aprendizagem do sentir, estar, viver em harmonia e equilíbrio consigo mesmo, entre si e o outro, e entre homem e natureza. Para a realização desse trabalho, foi feito um levantamento bibliográfico de pesquisas no campo do meio ambiente e sustentabilidade, assim como de trabalhos que aplicaram o teatro ritual no contexto educacional, no despertar do corpo em relação aos elementos da natureza. Após a análise desse material foram feitas correlações dos princípios emergidos da prática do teatro ritual com a promoção da consciência ambiental.
PROCESSO DE (RE)CRIAÇÃO ENTRE A VENTANIA DA BIPOLARIDADE E A BRISA DO BUDISMO
Authors: Firmino Fernandes Barbosa Janyelson
Published: December 2024

Este artigo tem como objetivo descrever um processo criativo de um ator que vive com o Transtorno Afetivo Bipolar, tendo como referência a autobiografia de Kay Redfield Jamison (1996), psicóloga clínica que também vive com o TAB, e investigando como o sua própria vida como pessoa com bipolaridade cria interferências em seu modo de criar artisticamente, do mesmo modo como a sua prática artística interfere em seu cotidiano. Guiado metodologicamente pela Prática como Pesquisa, estudada profundamente por Ciane Fernandes (2015), o pesquisador segue sua intuição e trilha um caminho de autodescoberta, na qual os estudos da performance como transformação do sujeito, explanadas por Cassiano Sydow Quilici (2015), o levam a uma experiência com a paz interior do budismo, explicado por Lama Samten (2001). A pesquisa pousa na sabedoria de que para se transformar o mundo deve-se transformar primeiro a si mesmo.
Problems of Implementation of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in China
Authors: Solntsev A. , Chen G.
Published: December 2024

The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance Especially as Waterfowl Habitat (Ramsar Convention) was signed in February 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, and currently has 172 parties. China acceded to this Convention in 1992, became the 67th party, and was elected a member of the Standing Committee in 2005. Wetlands conservation in China has achieved some positive results, but it still faces serious challenges. China’s wetlands level is much lower than the world average (global wetlands level is 8.60%), and the wetlands area per capita is only 1/5 of the world average. Until 2022, China lacked legislation to protect wetlands; the article’s objective is to analyze the recently adopted Chinese legislation in this area. Ultimately, the authors conclude that it is necessary to strengthen legal standards in China to contribute to the conservation and restoration of global wetlands.
Legal Regulation of Extradition of Persons for Criminal Prosecution or Execution of a Sentence in the BRICS Member States and Candidate States
Authors: Karpovich V.
Published: December 2024

This article analyzes the legal regulation of the extradition of persons for criminal prosecution or execution of a sentence in the BRICS states. The legal and technical features of the national legal regulations governing extradition in Brazil, India, China and South Africa are analyzed. It is noted that each of these nations (with the exception of Russia) has adopted a special law on extradition, which regulates in detail all procedural aspects of international cooperation in the field of the extradition of criminals. In addition, the legal regulation of the extradition of persons for criminal prosecution or execution of a sentence in the BRICS candidate states is also analyzed. In particular, this study provides both a general description of the countries’ legislation (the different legal systems) and an assessment of the national legal regulations governing extradition in each of the BRICS countries, including such countries as Iran, Argentina, Algeria, Bahrain and the UAE. The mechanisms of interstate and interdepartmental cooperation are deeply described. Furthermore, the prospects of international legal integration of the BRICS states in the field of extradition are assessed, taking into account the possible entry of the candidate states into the BRICS group. Following an analysis of the national legislation of both the BRICS member states and the BRICS candidate states, the idea of creating and adopting a “BRICS Convention on Extradition” is proposed.
Análise técnica e econômica entre veículos elétricos e veículos a combustão interna
Authors: Pangoni Fabrício Cristiano , Pereira Silva Ramon Eduardo
Published: December 2024

Este artigo apresenta um estudo de caso para uma família com residência na cidade de Campo Grande – MS em que é feito uma proposta técnica e econômica comparativa entre a utilização de veículos a combustão interna (VCI) e veículos elétricos (VE), modelos 2023, em 4 categorias diferentes. O Caso 1 envolve a análise dos subcompactos Fiat Mobi Like e Jac e-JS1. O Caso 2, os compactos Hyundai HB20 Sense e Peugeot E-208 GT. O Caso 3, os médios Nissan Versa Sense e BYD Dolphin GS 180EV. O Caso 4 para os grandes Nissan Leaf Tekna e Toyota Corolla Cross XR 20. Também, é analisado a hipótese da utilização ou não de um sistema fotovoltaico conectado à rede (SFVCR). Foram criados 3 cenários de utilização baseados na distância diária percorrida, sendo 10%, 50% e 100% da autonomia do VE. Os resultados alcançados mostram que, em cada categoria pesquisada, a viabilidade dos veículos elétricos está condicionada à distância diária percorrida para que o seu menor custo operacional compense o maior custo com a aquisição do veículo se comparado ao veículo a combustão interna.
Numerical modeling and experimental validation of a passive solar distillation of ethanol
Authors: Silva Isadora Barbosa , Faria Erica Victor , Sousa Nádia Guimarães , Santos Kássia Graciele
Published: December 2024

The increasing global demand for sustainable energy solutions highlights the potential of solar energy, a clean and abundant resource, for industrial processes such as distillation. This study investigates the passive solar distillation of ethanol mixed with a small fraction of oil, utilizing a phenomenological model validated against experimental data. Solar energy was employed to heat the mixture, capitalizing on its environmental benefits and cost-effectiveness, particularly in regions with high solar irradiation. Experiments were conducted with initial ethanol volumes of 500 mL, 750 mL, and 1000 mL, with temperature and distillate mass measured throughout the distillation process. The model accurately predicted the temperatures of the basin, ethanol, and glass cover, as well as the distillate mass, with prediction errors below 6%. Results indicate that solar radiation and wind speed significantly influence thermal efficiency, which ranged from 18.9% to 26%. It was achieved an average productivity of 4500 to 6500 mL/day·m² of distillate ethanol. The model’s accurate predictions of distillate production demonstrate its potential as a valuable tool for optimizing passive solar distillation systems.
A review on microgrids for the distributed integration of renewable hydrogen production with the power system
Authors: Nascimento Silva Gabriel Lucas , Danielly Norberto Araújo  , Danilo Pinchemel Cardoso Filho  , André Gama  , Heloisa Althoff
Published: December 2024

Os avanços nas tecnologias dos Sistemas Elétricos de Potência (SEP), associados à eletrificação de diversos setores, políticas de descarbonização e soluções para demandas conflitantes do setor elétrico, têm promovido a inserção de novos recursos distribuídos, aumentando a complexidade do sistema. Nesse contexto, pode-se destacar as microrredes como um novo princípio operativo nos SEP e a produção de hidrogênio via eletrólise a partir de energia limpa como uma fonte alternativa promissora de recursos renováveis. No entanto, são raros trabalhos que explorem, especificamente, a potencialidade das microrredes como vetor para produção distribuída em larga escala de hidrogênio renovável. Este artigo revisa de forma abrangente as diferentes dimensões dos SEP, avaliando essa potencialidade de maneira sistemática. Um levantamento atualizado das definições mais difundidas de microrredes é apresentado, destacando-se tecnologias de hidrogênio aplicáveis, seja para uso como fonte primária, método de armazenamento, combustível ou produto principal. Além disso, são mencionados exemplos de trabalhos e projetos que contribuem para a viabilidade técnica e econômica de microrredes como meio de integração da produção de hidrogênio aos SEP.
Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors for Diabetes: From Mechanistic Insights to Therapeutic Innovations
Authors: Chaudhary Aman , Bansal Sonal , Saha Sunam , Arora Swamita , Akram Wasim , Kumar Shivendra
Published: December 2024

Phosphodiesterase inhibitors (PDEIs) have emerged as potential agents in managing diabetes, offering novel avenues for therapeutic intervention.
This comprehensive review explores the diverse mechanisms, clinical applications, and the evolving landscape of phosphodiesterase inhibitors in
the context of diabetes mellitus. The molecular mechanisms underlying the impact of PDEIs on diabetes form a cornerstone of this review. PDEs, a
family of enzymes that regulate cyclic nucleotide levels, play a crucial role in intracellular signaling cascades. Understanding these intricate
mechanisms is essential for unraveling the therapeutic potential of PDEIs in diabetes. Clinical applications of PDEIs in diabetes management are
explored, highlighting their multifaceted roles. The review discusses pivotal preclinical and clinical studies that showcase the efficacy of PDEIs in
lowering hyperglycemia, enhancing lipid profiles, and averting diabetic sequelae such as neuropathy and nephropathy. Moreover, synergistic
effects have been shown in combination therapy, including PDEIs and already available antidiabetic drugs, improving overall therapeutic
effectiveness. Recent studies have unveiled new PDE targets and refined inhibitor designs, contributing to the continuous evolution of this
therapeutic approach. Despite these advancements, issues with patient-specific responses, dose optimization, and long-term safety still exist. The
necessity of further study into PDEIs, particularly their role in customized medicine for the treatment of diabetes, is emphasized in the review's
conclusion. The creation of next-generation PDE inhibitors with higher metabolic benefits, fewer side effects, and better selectivity is one of the
future goals.

Furthermore, the review delves into the prospects of PDEIs in diabetes management. It explores emerging technologies, such as targeted drug
delivery systems and precision medicine, that aim to enhance the therapeutic efficacy of PDEIs while minimizing adverse effects. The potential
role of PDEIs in addressing specific diabetes subtypes and complications, including diabetic neuropathy and cardiovascular complications, is also
contemplated.
Carbon Dots: A Novel Nanodrug Delivery Target, its Structure, Synthesis and Applications
Authors: Divya Surisetti , Singh Pankaj , Hashmi Sadaf , Kumar Anurag , Misra Aanchal , Singh Neha , Dixit Ritik , Katiyar Prashanth Kumar
Published: December 2024

Recent research has introduced numerous nano-drug delivery technologies into the
biomedical field, with carbon dots (CDs) standing out as a significant breakthrough in nanomaterials.
Known as “emerging light” due to their unique structural features and adaptability, CDs are
a particular type of carbon-based nanoparticle. These characteristics make CDs highly versatile
and attractive for a wide range of applications, including biosensing, bioimaging, and drug delivery.
The remarkable properties of CDs have made them central to nanotechnology and medical research.
Their effective electron transferability and photo-blinking effects enhance their efficiency
in imaging and sensing applications, ensuring safety for use in biological systems. CDs also exhibit
a high photoluminescent quantum yield, making them highly efficient light emitters. Their exceptional
resistance to photobleaching and photo-decomposition extends their usefulness in longterm
applications. Additionally, CDs possess strong electrocatalytic activity, excellent water solubility,
and long-term chemical stability, making them both effective and durable. Their low toxicity
and cost-effectiveness further enhance their suitability for widespread use. CDs' high surface
area-to-volume ratio increases their utility in various applications. Recent advancements have
highlighted the potential of CDs as nanocarriers for biological applications, such as gene, vaccine,
and antiviral drug delivery. The easy modification of their physico-chemical properties to suit specific
applications underscores their versatility. This review article provides a comprehensive summary
of the latest developments in carbon dots, covering their characteristics, synthesis techniques,
properties, classification, and applications.
Inhibitory Effect of Shikimic Acid on Biofilm Formation and the Expression of Critical Biofilm-associated Genes in Streptococcus agalactiae
Authors: Alani Safa Nadem , Al Meani Safaa Abed Latef
Published: December 2024

Background

Streptococcus agalactiae is well-known for causing adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as stillbirths and miscarriages, as well as being a major cause of newborn sepsis and meningitis.

Aims

This study sought to investigate how shikimic acid influences the expression of genes involved in the synthesis of biofilms.

Methods

A total of 181 specimens were obtained from pregnant women. Twenty-two isolates were bacteriologically recognized as S. agalactiae from these specimens. They were gathered from hospitals in the Al-Anbar province. These twenty-two isolates were identified as Group B streptococcus (GBS) based on their cultural and microscopical properties, as well as automated (VITEK-2 system) and molecular identification based on the atr gene, which is an essential gene expressed in all S. agalactiae isolates.

Results

GBS produced varying amounts of biofilm (weak, moderate, and strong). Shikimic acid (SA) was tested for its antibacterial effect against biofilm. Shikimic acid was incubated at various doses, and its effects on biofilm growth and formation were evaluated by MTT and crystal violet assay. SA greatly reduced the GBS inhibitory effects on GBS biofilms in pregnant women. Furthermore, it demonstrated a potent initial cell attachment, but it had less inhibitory effects on biofilms that had already been developed on polystyrene surfaces after eight hours. However, the Checkerboard approach produced a synergistic interaction between erythromycin and shikimic acid. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used to verify the presence of pilA and PilB genes in the GBS strain. We detected these genes by PCR. The results revealed that pilA was found only in three isolates (13.63%), but pilB was found in all isolates (22/22;100%).

Conclusion

Quantitative real-time PCR was used to determine the effect of shikimic acid on the expression of genes (sag1407 and sag1408), and the results showed down-regulation of the expression of biofilm synthesis genes sag1407 and sag1408 when treated with Sub-MIC of shikimic acid.
Echinochrome-A Attenuates Arterial Thrombosis Complications in the Liver and Kidney in Rats
Authors: Khalaf Marina Lotfy , Soliman Amel Mahmoud , Fahmy Sohair Ramadan , Mohamed Ayman Saber
Published: December 2024

Background:

Arterial thrombosis represents the most commonly feared consequence
of cardiovascular disease and a leading cause of death globally. Cardiovascular disease, liver, and
kidney are closely linked conditions, and disease in one organ can lead to dysfunction in the other.

Objective:

The current research aims to examine the therapeutic impact of Ech-A on arterial
thrombosis induced by FeCl3 complications on liver and kidney function.

Materials and methods:

Twenty-four rats were assigned into four sham groups (n= 6), and thrombotic
model groups were orally administered 2% DMSO, while the other groups were treated with
two dosages of Ech-A (1 and 10 mg/kg, body weight). After seven days of administration, the left
common carotid arteries of all groups were exposed to 50% ferric chloride for 10 min, except
those of the sham group rats exposed to normal saline.

Results:

The oral administration of Ech-A caused a significant increase in partial thromboplastin
time, prothrombin time, glutathione, catalase, nitric oxide, and glutathione S-transferase. While aspartate
aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and alanine aminotransferase activities as well as
creatinine, uric acid, urea, and malondialdehyde concentrations were significantly decreased (p<
0.05). The histological examination revealed a definite improvement in the liver and kidney tissues
in the Ech-A groups.

Conclusion:

The current investigation revealed that arterial thrombosis induced by FeCl3 in rats
causes complications in the kidneys and liver. Additionally, it demonstrates the beneficial impact
of Ech-A on coagulation parameters and liver and kidney function. Despite this, the current study
has few limitations. Firstly, the molecular mechanism regarding the protective effect of Ech-A on
liver and kidney complications caused by arterial thrombosis has not been investigated. Secondly,
no reference drug has been utilised to compare with Ech-A.

conclusion:

The current investigation revealed that the arterial thrombosis induced by FeCl3 in rats causes complications in the liver and kidney. Additionally, showing the ameliorative effect of Ech-A on coagulation parameters and liver and kidney function.
Nano Carrier-Mediated Ocular Therapeutic Delivery: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Parameshwar Kondapuram , Samal Himansu Bhusan
Published: December 2024

Ocular diseases such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and diabetic
retinopathy are leading causes of vision impairment and blindness globally. Despite advancements
in treatment, these conditions remain challenging due to the eye's unique anatomical and
physiological barriers. The corneal barrier, tear dynamics, and rapid ocular clearance mechanisms,
such as lacrimation and blinking, greatly limit the bioavailability (BA) of therapeutics delivered
through conventional methods like eye drops or systemic administration. Additionally, the blood-
-retinal and blood-aqueous barriers further restrict drug penetration into deeper ocular tissues, making
achieving effective therapeutic concentrations at the target site difficult.
This review provides a detailed and comprehensive examination of the innovative nano-carrier-mediated
ocular drug delivery systems (NCDDS). It focuses on how these systems, through their advanced
mathematical models and drug release mechanisms, overcome the inherent barriers of the
eye. This innovation enhances therapeutic outcomes and provides intriguing solutions to unmet
needs in ocular disease management.
A systematic literature review was conducted across major databases, focusing on quantitative
studies to analyze nano-carrier-based drug delivery for ocular applications. The review considered
mathematical models describing drug release kinetics, diffusion mechanisms, and bioavailability
enhancement. These models play a crucial role in predicting the in vivo performance of NCDDS,
allowing researchers to anticipate how these systems will behave in the complex environment of
the eye. Special attention was given to studies utilizing advanced pharmacokinetic (PK) modeling
to predict in vivo performance of NCDDS.
Nanocarriers (NCs), including polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs), liposomes, dendrimers, and micelles,
have demonstrated significant potential in ocular drug delivery. These systems provide sustained
release profiles, prolonging drug retention and improving solubility. Mathematical models
predict that NCs can significantly increase BA by up to 80% compared to conventional drug delivery
methods. It reassures us about the effectiveness of these systems, primarily due to their ability
to bypass ocular clearance mechanisms and target specific tissues.
Nano carrier-mediated ocular drug delivery systems present a groundbreaking approach to addressing
the limitations of conventional ocular therapies. By offering precise control over drug release
rates and enhancing bioavailability, NCs effectively treat ocular diseases. The potential of ongoing
research to refine these mathematical models and integrate real-time PK data is promising, offering
hope for the future of ocular drug delivery systems. The continued development of these advanced
delivery systems holds the potential to transform the treatment of ocular diseases and improve
patient outcomes globally.
Differential Equations in the Linear Spaces
Authors: Oyelami Benjamin Oyediran
Published: December 2024

Fundamental concepts in normed spaces are elucidated and linear systems
are considered and applied to some problems.
Ordinary Differential Equations and Applications II: with Maple Illustrations
Authors: Oyelami Benjamin Oyediran
Published: December 2024

Ordinary Differential Equations and Applications II: With Maple Illustrations integrates fundamental theories of Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs) with practical applications and Maple-based solutions. This comprehensive textbook covers vector-valued differential equations, matrix solutions, stability methods, and periodic systems. Using Maple and MapleSim software, readers learn symbolic solutions, plotting techniques, 2D/3D animation for ODE problems, and simulations for engineering systems.
This book is ideal for undergraduate and postgraduate students in mathematics, physics, economics, and engineering, as well as researchers and professionals needing advanced applications of ODEs. Key Features:
- Comprehensive introduction to ODE concepts and real-life applications
- Solutions for initial value problems using Maple and MapleSim software
- Analysis of stability using Routh-Hurwitz and Lyapunov methods
- Models of neural firing, avian influenza, and biological populations
- Practical guidance on MapleSim for multi-domain simulations, code generation, and Monte Carlo simulation
Surgical aspects of treatment of hiatal hernia
Authors: Cherkasov D. M. , Cherkasov M. F. , Tat’yanchenko V. K. , Starcev Y. M. , Melikova S. G. , Galashokyan K. M. , Skuratov A. V. , Endorenko K. V.
Published: December 2024

Objective: enhancement the outcome of treatment of patients with complicated forms of hiatal hernia (HH) on the base on a devised personal complex approach.

Materials and methods: the review was carried out of 204 patients with complicated forms of HH at the age of 17 to 77 years (men — 44%, women — 56.4%). All 204 patients suﬀered from gastroesophageal reﬂux disease (GERD). In 53 (26%) cases synthetic mesh implants were used during surgical management. In 38 patients (18.6%) with hiatal hernia and metaplasia of the esophageal mucosa (ESM) exposed to complex treatment, which includes antireﬂux surgical management and argon plasma coagulation (APC).

Results: early postsurgical complications we met more oﬅen in the group of patients the ones we used mesh. Late postsurgical complications in the group of patients where mesh implants were used according to the indications were met less oﬅen. when assessing the quality of life according to the questionnaires GERD-HRqL and GSRS, the subjective symptoms of GERD decrease dramatically aﬅer surgical treatment (in 3 months), continue to decline up to 12 months, aﬅer which they acquire a constant character. In patients with hiatal hernia, which has become complicated by ESM metaplasia, aﬅer completing the courses of argonoplasmic coagulation, in all cases, complete regression of the metaplastic epithelium was registered by us.

Conclusions: surgical management of complicated forms of HH using video laparoscopic technique based on the developed algorithm is highly eﬀective, which is conﬁrmed by the low quantity of postsurgical complications and a major improvement of the quality of life of patients.
Assessment of the clinical condition and prediction of outcomes in newborns from the neonatal near miss group using the CАSPn, TRIPS and CRIB scales
Authors: Abakarova D. A. , Chistyakova G. N. , Remizova I. I. , Kadochnikova P. A.
Published: December 2024

Objective: to conduct a comparative characterization of neonatal scales used in assessing severity of condition and predicting outcomes in newborn infants.

Materials and methods: the study included 70 newborns born in 2021 until 2022 at the Federal State Budgetary Institution “Ural Scientiﬁc Research Institute for Maternal and Child Care”. Depending on gestational age, 3 groups were formed: group 1 included newborns gestational age 23–29.6 weeks (n=24); group 2 included children aged 30–36.6 weeks (n=29) and group 3 included full-term newborns aged 37–40 weeks (n=17).

Results: according to the clinical scale for assessing premature newborns, it was revealed that in group 1, in 45.8% of cases, the condition of newborns who scored the highest number of points was assessed as extremely severe and unstable. Mortality in this cohort of children was 36.3%. According to the Transport Index of Physiological Stability scale, the maximum number of points was recorded in 12.5% of premature newborns from group 1, whose condition was assessed as extremely severe and unstable, but no death was detected in this subgroup. According to the clinical risk index for young children, a lethal outcome was detected in 66.7% of cases in the 1st group in newborns with 7–9 points, while in the 3rd group, a lethal outcome was detected among newborns who scored 4–6 points.

Conclusions: currently, the task of creating a universal scale for assessing not only the severity and stability of the condition of newborns, but also predicting adverse outcomes remains urgent.
Clinical case of secondary arterial hypertension in the practice of a pediatric
Authors: Belykh N. A. , Kucheryavenkova Y. S. , Piznyur I. V. , Lashkov A. Yu. , Anikeeva N. A.
Published: December 2024

Arterial hypertension (AH) is one of the risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases. The frequency of detection of hypertension among the child population ranges from 1 to 18% of the examined children. In recent decades, there has been a rapid increase in the incidence of this pathology worldwide. At the same time, primary hypertension accounts for 10% of children with hypertension under the age of 10 years, and secondary (symptomatic) — 90%. Literature data indicate that hypertension, which occurred in childhood, persists in adults, thereby increasing the risk of mortality from cardiovascular pathology. Among all cases of hypertension in children, in 5–10% of cases, the cause is renal artery stenosis. The article presents data on the prevalence and etiology of secondary hypertension, as well as own clinical observation of the course of this disease in a 17-year-old teenager. The diﬃculties of diagnosing secondary hypertension in pediatric practice are described.
Automated Process for Monitoring of Amiodarone Treatment: Development and Evaluation
Authors: Johansson Birgitta I , Landahl Jonas , Tammelin Karin , Aerts Erik , Lundberg Christina E , Adiels Martin , Lindgren Martin , Rosengren Annika , Papachrysos Nikolaos , Filipsson Nyström Helena , Sjöland Helen
Published: December 2024

Background

Amiodarone treatment requires repeated laboratory evaluations of thyroid and liver function due to potential side effects. Robotic process automation uses software robots to automate repetitive and routine tasks, and their use may be extended to clinical settings.

Objective

Thus, this study aimed to develop a robot using a diagnostic classification algorithm to automate repetitive laboratory evaluations for amiodarone follow-up.

Methods

We designed a robot and clinical decision support system based on expert clinical advice and current best practices in thyroid and liver disease management. The robot provided recommendations on the time interval to follow-up laboratory testing and management suggestions, while the final decision rested with a physician, acting as a human-in-the-loop. The performance of the robot was compared to the existing real-world manual follow-up routine for amiodarone treatment.

Results

Following iterative technical improvements, a robot prototype was validated against physician orders (n=390 paired orders). The robot recommended a mean follow-up time interval of 4.5 (SD 2.4) months compared to the 3.1 (SD 1.4) months ordered by physicians (P<.001). For normal laboratory values, the robot recommended a 6-month follow-up in 281 (72.1%) of cases, whereas physicians did so in only 38 (9.7%) of cases, favoring a 3- to 4-month follow-up (n=227, 58.2%). All patients diagnosed with new side effects (n=12) were correctly detected by the robot, whereas only 8 were by the physician.

Conclusions

An automated process, using a software robot and a diagnostic classification algorithm, is a technically and medically reliable alternative for amiodarone follow-up. It may reduce manual labor, decrease the frequency of laboratory testing, and improve the detection of side effects, thereby reducing costs and enhancing patient value.
Applications of Natural Language Processing and Large Language Models for Social Determinants of Health: Protocol for a Systematic Review
Authors: Rajwal Swati , Zhang Ziyuan , Chen Yankai , Rogers Hannah , Sarker Abeed , Xiao Yunyu
Published: December 2024

Background

In recent years, the intersection of natural language processing (NLP) and public health has opened innovative pathways for investigating social determinants of health (SDOH) in textual datasets. Despite the promise of NLP in the SDOH domain, the literature is dispersed across various disciplines, and there is a need to consolidate existing knowledge, identify knowledge gaps in the literature, and inform future research directions in this emerging field.

Objective

This research protocol describes a systematic review to identify and highlight NLP techniques, including large language models, used for SDOH-related studies.

Methods

A search strategy will be executed across PubMed, Web of Science, IEEE Xplore, Scopus, PsycINFO, HealthSource: Academic Nursing, and ACL Anthology to find studies published in English between 2014 and 2024. Three reviewers (SR, ZZ, and YC) will independently screen the studies to avoid voting bias, and two (AS and YX) additional reviewers will resolve any conflicts during the screening process. We will further screen studies that cited the included studies (forward search). Following the title abstract and full-text screening, the characteristics and main findings of the included studies and resources will be tabulated, visualized, and summarized.

Results

The search strategy was formulated and run across the 7 databases in August 2024. We expect the results to be submitted for peer review publication in early 2025. As of December 2024, the title and abstract screening was underway.

Conclusions

This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive study of existing research on the application of NLP for various SDOH tasks across multiple textual datasets. By rigorously evaluating the methodologies, tools, and outcomes of eligible studies, the review will identify gaps in current knowledge and suggest directions for future research in the form of specific research questions. The findings will be instrumental in developing more effective NLP models for SDOH, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes and a better understanding of social determinants in diverse populations.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/66094