bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suppression of manifestations of violent ethno-religious extremism: expert assessments
Authors: Naydenko Vitaly
Published: March 2023

Growing social tension increases the danger of ethno-religious extremism, that negatively affects the views and value orientations of various groups of the Russian population, worsens the social well-being of society, provokes an increase in protest potential, and threatens Russia's national security. The article deals with the problems of the effectiveness of the measures of state and public structures in the suppression of ethno-extremist actions and analyses the practice of using voluntary public formations for these purposes. A two-stage survey conducted by the author of the article using the methods of questionnaire and in-depth interviews of 20 experts who are highly qualified specialists in the field of countering ethno-extremism, the results of sociological studies of the FCTAS RAS and VCIOM, the conclusions of the IBHR report, as well as the analysis of scientific papers and media publications on the topic of the study showed that the most effective (expert rating "5" on a five-point scale) are the preventive actions of the FSB and the NAC (National Anti-terrorism Committee). The National Guard and the police received a fairly high assessment of the effectiveness of this work (“4”). Cossack organisations received an average assessment of the effectiveness of the researched activity (“3”). The suppressive activity of the DND (Voluntary People´s Squad) was rated "2". The actions of other public law enforcement formations (associations of veterans of law enforcement agencies, self-defense units, youth patrols, etc.), as well as public ethno-religious organisations that are not directly related to law enforcement activities, were recognised as the least effective (“1"). The study showed that 75% of experts consider it justified to use voluntary public law enforcement formations (Cossacks, DND, etc.) to suppress violent ethno-religious manifestations and, above all, the ones of the separatist nature. At the same time, 35% of experts believe that such use is correct in almost any ethno-conflict situation, and 40% are in favour of their use only in emergency circumstances, when government services cannot eliminate a sudden threat on their own. At the same time, 25% of the surveyed experts consider the use of voluntary formations unjustified, since only the state has the right to legitimate use of violence. The results of the assessment of the activities of state and public structures analysed in the article are recommended for the use in developing measures to increase the effectiveness of countering violent ethno-extremism, strengthening civil unity, and achieving interethnic and interfaith harmony in Russian society.
Kwestia praw człowieka we współczesnej polityce międzynarodowej
Authors: Kosta Raul Andrzej
Published: March 2023

Bez względu na to, jakim zmianom ulega władza polityczna, jej najważniejszym elementem pozostaje skuteczność. Nie można bowiem sprawnie zarządzać państwem ani realizować celów politycznych, jeśli okazują się one nierealne, i to nie ze względu na zakres realizowanych celów, ale przede wszystkim z uwagi na brak odpowiednio przygotowanych do tych zadań osób. W ujęciu realistycznym umiejętność dbania o własne bezpieczeństwo jest równie istotna co współpraca w ramach dowolnie wybranej organizacji czy też na mocy indywidualnie zawieranych porozumień. Dotyczy to również zakresu rozumienia i przestrzegania praw człowieka, bez których nie można mówić o państwie prawa.
A Study on the Antioxidative and Anti-inflammatory Properties of Gloiopeltis furcata Extract Obtained Using Different Concentrations of Ethanol
Authors: Kim Sook-Hee , Lee Ja-Bok
Published: March 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to explore the differences in the antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory effects of Gloiopeltis furcata based on its extraction conditions.Methods: 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assays were performed to determine the antioxidant activity of Gloiopeltis furcata extracts obtained using different concentrations of ethanol. Concomitantly, the concentrations of polyphenols and flavonoids, which are antioxidants present in Gloiopeltis furcata extract, were measured. Additionally, in cell-based experiments, the cytotoxicity and anti-inflammatory activity of a water extract, which exhibited the most potent antioxidative activity among all extracts, was measured.Results: In the DPPH assay, the Gloiopeltis furcata extract exhibited an antioxidant activity of 3.576 mg of ascorbic acid/g, whereas in the ABTS assay, the antioxidant activity was 4.892 mg of ascorbic acid/g. The polyphenol concentration was found to be 35.52±2.32 mg/g, whereas the flavonoid concentration was 0.88±0.34 mg/g. Furthermore, the extract had a cytotoxicity of ≤20% at all concentrations used in the experiment, thus indicating the absence of cytotoxicity and confirming that the extract was effective in reducing inflammation proportionally to its concentration. Moreover, the extract exhibited an anti-inflammatory activity of 47.66%±1.53% at a concentration of 100 μg/mL.Conclusion: Gloiopeltis furcata exhibited the most potent antioxidant activity in its water extract, and it was confirmed that the extract of Gloiopeltis furcata that was obtained through water had low cytotoxicity, an anti-inflammatory effect, and a commercial value.
Makeup Application Process Using a Mixed Reality (MR) Training System
Authors: Yun Jae-Im , Hwang Jin-Sook
Published: March 2023

Purpose: This study investigated the makeup application process using a mixed reality (MR) education system for beauty majors and compared the effects of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) in the makeup education field. This study also investigated the utilization and development potential of makeup education using the recently developed AR-based MR technique.Methods: A survey was conducted targeting beauty majors. A total of 230 questionnaires were distributed, and 200 effective questionnaires were used in the final data analysis. The collected data were analyzed with frequency analysis, factor analysis, descriptive statistical analysis, and repeated measures analysis of variance using the SPSS 21.0 program.Results: An analysis of the questionnaires applied to makeup majors found that the expectation of usability in makeup education according to technological development increased equally in the order of VR, AR, and MR. The realistic expectations of the makeup application education from VR to MR increased in three groups, and expectations were particularly high in the case of AR and the utilization of MR in makeup education based on it. We presented a makeup education method from the first-person point of view using the MR device, HoloLens, and we suggested the direction of customized education for auditors based on the popularization of MR devices.Conclusion: Mixed reality-based makeup education presents a new direction in the field of makeup education by providing various types of makeup information consistent with the 4th industrial revolution and the revitalization of alternatives to face-to-face education in the post-COVID-19 era.
Disposal of short-lived low- and intermediate-level waste: analysis of foreign experience
Authors: Shabalin Boris , Lavrynenko Olena , Mitsiuk Natalia
Published: March 2023

The article summarizes and analyzes the main approaches and practical experience of foreign countries regarding the disposal of short-lived low- and medium-level waste. Their place in the category of low-level waste according to the recommended classification of the IAEA, for which disposal in near-surface storage facilities is provided, is shown. Currently, in countries that operate nuclear facilities and develop nuclear technologies, there is no one approach to the disposal of such waste. The type of repository and its structural and technological solutions are determined by the specifics of the waste itself, the nature of the site, the state strategy in the nuclear industry, as well as social and economic factors. To date, several types of storage facilities have been developed for the disposal of short-lived low- and medium-level waste: relatively simple trench-type near-surface storage facilities; modular-type near-surface storage facilities with a complicated system of engineering barriers and criteria for selecting containing rocks (natural barriers) compared to the trench type; geological storages, which are mainly built in mining operations with a complex system of tunnels and barrier protection. Bentonite clays are widely used as components of engineering barriers. In the simplest case of near-surface repositories, the bentonite layer serves as the base material of the repositories and helps to reduce filtration and increase the sorption of radionuclides and other components. In the organization of geological repositories, the bentonite layer contributes to the reduction of water filtration into the repositories, increases the sorption of radionuclides, prevents the destruction of concrete structures during a shift by containing rocks, and, in the event of the destruction of cement-concrete structures of engineering barriers, leads to a decrease in the removal of radionuclides from the repositories into the environment. The work gives examples of different types of storage facilities in countries around the world.
Impact of autoimmune thyroiditis on primary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: Chatzidakis Stefanos , Lamnisos Demetris , Constantinides Vasilis , Kyriacou Angelos , Economides Aliki , Economides Panayiotis A.
Published: March 2023

Aim. Primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) often coexists with thyroid diseases. Current guidelines advise preoperative ultrasound (US) examination of the thyroid gland for thyroid nodular disease or concomitant malignancy but not evaluation for autoimmune thyroiditis (AIT). The impact of autoimmune thyroiditis on the clinical presentation and intraoperative course of PHPT is not clear.
Material and methods. We retrospectively assessed the medical records of 21 patients with PHPT who underwent parathyroidectomy. Clinical, biochemical, ultrasonographic and intraoperative data were evaluated.
Results. There was a longer duration of parathyroidectomy in patients with AIT than in those without (113.3 min vs. 93.9 min, P=0.03). A lower rate of kidney stones was noted in patients with autoimmune thyroiditis (44.4% vs. 0%, P=0.03). Patients with AIT were more symptomatic, but this was not significant. There was no difference between the two groups in the prevalence of osteoporosis or thyroid nodular disease.
Conclusions. A significantly longer duration of parathyroidectomy was seen in PHPT patients with AIT. Patients with PHPT undergoing surgery should be investigated for autoimmune thyroiditis, as this may affect surgical planning.
Detrital Zircon Geochronology of the Volyn-Orsha Sedimentary Basin in Western Ukraine: Implications for the Meso-Neoproterozoic History of Baltica and Possible Link to Amazonia and the Grenvillian – Sveconorwegian – Sunsas Orogenic Belt
Authors: Shumlyanskyy Leonid , Bekker Andrey , Tarasko Iryna , Francovschi Ion , Wilde Simon A. , Melnychuk Victor
Published: March 2023

We used LA-ICP-MS U-Pb data for detrital zircon to constrain the Maximum Depositional Age (MDA) and provenance of clastic sedimentary rocks of the Volyn-Orsha sedimentary basin, which filled an elongated (~625×250 km) depression in SW Baltica and attained ~900 m in thickness. Eighty-six zircons out of one hundred and three yielded concordant dates, with most of them (86 %) falling in the time interval between 1655 ± 3 and 1044 ± 16 Ma and clustering in two peaks at ca. 1630 and 1230 Ma. The remaining zircons yielded dates older than 1800 Ma. The MDA is defined by a tight group of three zircons with a weighted average age of 1079 ± 8 Ma. This age corresponds to the time of a clockwise ~90° rotation of Baltica and the formation of the Grenvillian – Sveconorwegian – Sunsas orogenic belts. Subsidence was facilitated by the presence of eclogites derived from subducted oceanic crust. The sediments of the Orsha sub-basin in the northeastern part of the basin were derived from the local crystalline basement, whereas the sediments in the Volyn sub-basin, extending to the margin of Baltica, were transported from the orogen between Laurentia, Baltica, and Amazonia.
Pathophysiological Effects of Contemporary Lifestyle on Evolutionary-Conserved Survival Mechanisms that Disturb the Hallmarks of Health in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Parker Jim
Published: March 2023

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is increasingly being characterized as an evolutionary mismatch disorder that presents with a complex mixture of metabolic and endocrine symptoms. The Evolutionary Model proposes that PCOS arises from a collection of inherited polymorphisms that have been consistently demonstrated in a variety of ethnic groups and races. In-utero developmental programming of susceptible genomic variants are thought to predispose the offspring to develop PCOS. Postnatal exposure to lifestyle and environmental risk factors results in epigenetic activation of developmentally programmed genes and disturbance of the hallmarks of health. The resulting pathophysiological changes represent the consequences of poor-quality diet, sedentary behaviour, endocrine disrupting chemicals, stress, circadian disruption, and other lifestyle factors. Emerging evidence suggests that lifestyle-induced gastrointestinal dysbiosis plays a central role in the pathogenesis of PCOS. Lifestyle and environmental exposures initiate changes that result in disturbance of the gastrointestinal microbiome (dysbiosis), immune dysregulation (chronic inflammation), altered metabolism (insulin resistance), endocrine and reproductive imbalance (hyperandrogenism), and central nervous system dysfunction (neuroendocrine, autonomic nervous system). PCOS can be a progressive metabolic condition that leads to obesity, gestational diabetes, type 2 diabetes, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. This review explores the mechanisms that underpin the evolutionary mismatch between ancient survival pathways and contemporary lifestyle factors involved in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of PCOS.
Defective or Just Different? Predicting Storm Failure in Four Urban Tree Growth Patterns
Authors: Koeser Andrew , Klein Ryan , Hauer Richard , Miesbauer Jason , Freeman Zachary , Harchick Christopher , Kane Brian
Published: March 2023

Practitioners who assess the risk associated with urban trees often factor in the presence or absence of visual tree defects when determining whether a tree may fail. While these defects are a main fixture in many tree risk assessment systems and best management practices, the research supporting their usefulness in predicting tree failure during storms is limited. When looking at past research involving populations of storm-damaged trees, there are several defects that have never predicted failure (or have been associated with reduced rates of failure). In this study, we took a closer look at four such defects: codominant branches; branch unions with included bark; multiple stems originating from the same point; and overextended branches. After Hurricane Ian, we revisited 1519 risk assessed trees where one of these four defects was identified as the primary condition of concern. Fourteen of these trees experienced branch failure during the storm (which hit the study area as a downgraded tropical storm). Upon closer inspection, none of these failures occurred at the defect of concern. Our findings indicate that none of the defects assessed appeared to increase the likelihood of tree failure in the species tested. Our results are in line with past research on these defects derived from post-storm assessments and analysis.
Improvement of Core-Shell Lightweight Aggregate by Modifying the Cement-EPS Interface
Authors: Pang Chaoming , Zhang Chunpeng , Li Peijuan
Published: March 2023

To improve the interfacial compatibility between cement matrix and expanded polystyrene (EPS) in the core-shell lightweight aggregates (CSLA), the effects of sodium silicate, Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) emulsion, Vinyl acetate-ethylene (VAE) emulsion, acrylic acid, and acetic acid on the cement-EPS interface were investigated. The denseness of the interface was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the effect of interfacial agents on the hydration process of cement was studied by the heat of hydration and induction resistivity. The macroscopic properties of the interface of the CSLA were characterized by the "leak-white" rate, drop resistance and numerical crushing strength. The results show that the sodium silicate densifies the interface by generating hydration products on the EPS surface. At the same time, organic acid enhances the interfacial properties of EPS and cement by increasing the surface roughness and allowing hydration products to grow in the surface micropores. In terms of the cement hydration process, both two interfacial agents delay the cement hydration. Above all, with comprehensive interface properties, "leak-white" rate, and mechanical properties, VAE emulsion and sodium silicate can achieve the best performance with a final crushing resistance of 5.7 MPa.
Effect of Adding Al2O3 on the Macrostructure of Friction Stir Welding Polypropylene Sheet
Authors: Clara Dinda , Miksik Frantisek , Kusharjanta Bambang , Triyono Triyono , Putri Aniddya Salsabila Kurnia
Published: March 2023

In this study, an experimental investigation has been carried out to determine the effect of alumina (Al2O3) addition in joining polypropylene. Polypropylene is a thermoplastic material used most as a non-metallic material. One of the joining methods that can be applied in Polypropylene is Friction Stir Welding (FSW). The use of Al2O3 as a filler is to modify the polypropylene matrix's properties to improve the joint's quality. The Al2O3 powder with 99 9% purity was inserted along the polypropylene plates in the groove. This research analyzed the role of adding Al2O3 and tool rotation speed concerning the joints' quality. The experiment was performed under different values of tool speed rotation (204 rpm, 356 rpm, 620 rpm, and 1140 rpm) and the presence or absence of the addition of alumina powder. Then, the joint's quality is visually observed by optical macroscopy at the top and cross-section view. From macroscopic observations, adding alumina could make the visual of the joint look better and result in minimum defects than the joint without alumina addition. Instead, the increasing tool speed rotation helped the distribution of alumina during the welding process.
IMPLEMENTASI BLENDED LEARNING PADA KURIKULUM MERDEKA UNTUK MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR SISWA OTOMOTIF SMK NEGERI 5 SURAKARTA
Authors: Sarman Sarman , Sidik Rasyid
Published: March 2023

The Mid Semester Score for the Fundamentals of the Automotive Engineering Program for students X TO_B for the odd semester of 2022/2023 is below the minimum mastery level. Students with scores below the minimum limit are 72.22%. Class Action Research is carried out to analyze student learning styles and present learning models that can improve student learning outcomes.The learning model presented in this study is blended learning.

This research was conducted for 2 cycles, with a total of 4 face-to-face meetings. Each meeting has a focus on learning mechanical measuring instruments which are divided into caliper gauges, screw micrometers, dial indicators, and cylinder bore gauges. This research was attended by 34 students X TO_B Vocational High School 5 Surakarta in 2022/2023.

The results of this study show that: 1) The blended learning model is effective in having a positive impact on increasing students' knowledge of X TO_B as evidenced by the results of the N-gain analysis; 2) The existence of innovative treatment in cycle 1 and cycle 2 learning related to optimizing the use of smartphone devices in learning, has proven to increase the effectiveness of learning by 3.24%; 3) The success of the blended learning model requires teacher control and student learning independence.
Efektifitas Media Pembelajaran Permainan Tradisional Oray-Orayan Dalam Mengembangkan Kemampuan Mengenal Konsep Bilangan Pada Siswa Sekolah Dasar
Authors: Ardillani Sofie Putri
Published: March 2023

Teknik pembelajaran yang aktif merupakan cara kreatif untuk meningkatkan perhatian, motivasi, keterlibatan siswa dan dianggap membantu proses belajar dikelas sehingga perlu diterapkan dalam proses pembelajaran khususnya untuk menunjang kemampuan mengenal konsep bilangan pada siswa sekolah dasar. Proses pembelajaran yang aktif tidak terlepas dari media pembelajaran yang digunakan dalam proses belajar diantaranya adalah permainan tradisional oray-orayan. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui efektivitas media pembelajaran permainan tradisional oray-orayan dalam mengembangkan kemampuan mengenal konsep bilangan pada siswa sekolah dasar. Jumlah subjek dalam penelitian sebanyak 40 siswa dengan menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan ada perbedaan rata-rata kemampuan mengenal konsep bilangan siswa SD sebelum dan sesudah diberikan media pembelajaran berupa permainan tradisional oray-orayan. Berdasarkan analisi uji t yang telah dilaksanakan dari tabel diatas diketahui nilai Sig. Levenes’s Test for Equality of Variances adalah sebesar 0.358 > 0.05 maka dapat diartikan bahwa varians data antara kelas eksperimen 1 dan  2 adalah homogen atau sama. Pada tabel tersebut diketahui nilai sig. (2-tailed) sebesar 0.000 < 0.05 yang artinya Ho ditolak dan Ha diterima. Hal ini menunjukkan bahwa media pembelajaran permainan tradisional oray-orayan efektif untuk meningkatkan kemampuan mengenal konsep bilangan siswa sekolah dasar.
Progress towards in-situ traceability and digitalization of temperature measurements
Authors: Pearce Jonathan , Veltcheva Radka , Tucker Declan , Machin Graham
Published: March 2023

Autonomous control systems rely on input from sensors, so it is crucial that the sensor input is validated to ensure that it is ‘right’ and that the measurements are traceable to the International System of Units. The measurement and control of temperature is widespread, and its reliable measurement is key to maximising product quality, optimising efficiency, reducing waste and minimizing emissions such as CO2 and other harmful pollutants. Degradation of temperature sensors in harsh environments such as high temperature, contamination, vibration and ionising radiation causes a progressive loss of accuracy that is not apparent. Here we describe some new developments to overcome the problem of ‘calibration drift’, including self-validating thermocouples and embedded phase-change cells which self-calibrate in situ by means of a built-in temperature reference and practical primary thermometers such as the Johnson noise thermometer which measure temperature directly and do not suffer from calibration drift. All these developments will provide measurement assurance which is an essential part of digitalisation to ensure that sensor output is always ‘right’, as well as providing essential ‘points of truth’ in a sensor network. Some progress in digitalisation of calibrations to make them available to end-users via a website and/or an Application Programming Interface is also described.
Creatinine-based eGFR accuracy is severely compromised by urgent care pharmacotherapy: real-life evidence and implications for emergency service clinical practice
Authors: Valik Dalibor , Demlova Regina , Kozakova Sarka , Rihacek Michal , Buckova Dana , Horska Katerina , Wiewiorka Ondrej , Boucek Lubos , Selingerova Iveta , Korberova Alena , Mikuskova Alena , Starha Jiri , Benovska Miroslava , Radina Martin , Richter Michal , Dubska Lenka Zdrazilova , Podborska Martina
Published: March 2023

Background: Assessment of kidney function in emergency settings is essential across all medical subspecialties. Daily assessment of patient creatinine result from emergency medical services showed that some creatinine results apparently deviated from expected creatinine values implying occurrence of drug-related interferences.
Methods: Real-time clinical evaluation of an enzyme method (Roche CREP2) in comparison to Jaffé gen. 2 method (Roche CREJ2) was performed. During the period of December 2022 and January 2023 we analyzed 8498 paired patient specimens, 5524 were heavily medicated STAT patient specimens, 500 were pediatric specimens and 2474 were analyzed in a distant general population in a different region using the same methods.
Results: About 2 percent of hospital specimens with patient history showed apparent drops of creatinine concentrations with the enzyme method against the compensated Jaffé method. Suspect medication was found in 43 out of 46 reviewed patients where medication data were allowed for review. A general patient cohort showed no drops of concentrations measured by the enzyme method. Pediatric hospital cohort showed 6 drops out of 500 total measurements.
Conclusions: We implemented immediate corrective measures that were replacement of enzyme creatinine with Jaffé gen.2 method, the “full Schwartz” composite formula for pediatric medicine and CKD-EPI with cystatin C for STAT adult medical services. We conclude that pharmacotherapy-induced inaccuracies with enzyme creatinine methods imply the need for proper method validations in the relevant patient population and may facilitate introduction of cystatin C to emergency medicine clinical practice.
Inositol hexaphosphate enhances chemotherapy by reversing persistent endoplasmic reticulum stress-induced senescence through decreasing P-PERK and ADPr-eEF-2 levels in colorectal cancer
Authors: Jia Qingan , Xu Binghui , Song Yuna , Liao Xia , Fan Tian , Mou Lei , Yang Kairan , Zhu Chunyu , Li Zhixian , Wang Miao , Zhang Qiangbo , Liang Lei
Published: March 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Off the Diagonal of Institutional Development
Authors: Murphy Ryan H.
Published: March 2023

Three characteristics of developed twenty-first century countries are high levels of state capacity, democracy, and economic freedom. This paper explores which countries do not possess one of the characteristics relative the levels of the others. We find that countries which lack democracy are those with other means to secure political legitimacy, and those without strong states are geographically concentrated in Latin America and Eastern Europe. Those without liberalized economic institutions are an idiosyncratic group that are best described as having unconventional historical paths. These findings speak to the prospects for development outside the liberal democratic path, the nature of development in the absence of a state, and unexplored determinants of economic freedom.
JEL Codes: O43; H10; P10; N40
Converting Compression Ignition Engine to Dual Fuel (Diesel + CNG) Engine and Experimentally Investigating its Performance and Emissions
Authors: Niknam Yasser , Zamani Davood Mohammad , Pareshkoohi Mohammad Gholami
Published: March 2023

One of the suitable solutions for burning natural gas in diesel engines is the use of dual fuel technology. In this study, the MT440C compression ignition engine has been converted to dual fuel (Diesel + CNG) simultaneously combustion of diesel fuel and natural gas, with the least amount of engine changes and using the most amount of natural gas. The ignition of the engine was in the range of the governor. Experiments in stable conditions for the working modes of the engine were performed with pure diesel fuel and mixed gas diesel fuel. The effects of natural gas fuel as the main fuel and diesel fuel as the spark ignition on a 4-cylinder CI engine were investigated on the performance and emissions. According to the engine speed and load, the amount of diesel fuel was adjusted using mechanical changes in the governor, while the ignition system was not used. These tests were performed at engine speeds of 1200, 1400, 1600, 1800, and 2000 rpm, using diesel fuel and dual fuel. These data were collected in the Engine Research Center of Tabriz Motorsazan Company and experimental runs were repeated 3 times One of the goals of this research is to reduce the consumption of diesel fuel, and in the current study, CNG is 72% and diesel is 28% of the dual fuel in idling. This study showed that the emission of some pollutants increased and some decreased in the dual fuel mode. Therefore, more research is needed on modifying the diesel injection system as a spark plug or the CNG injection system to reduce the emission of greenhouse gases.
Adaptation and Implementation of Serious Illness Conversations in a Danish Hematological Setting
Authors: Viftrup Dorte Toudal , Myrhøj Caecilie Borregaard , Andersen Helene Støttrup , Hvidt Niels Christian , Clemmensen Stine Novrup
Published: March 2023

Backgrounds: Patients with hematological cancers and their caregivers request more realistic information about disease trajectory and prognosis. The aim of the study was to evaluate the implementation of an adapted SICP concept into the hematological department at Copenhagen University Hospital in Denmark.
Methods: For evaluating the adaptation and implementation of the SICP the outlined framework in the updated guidelines for complex interventions by the UK Medical Research Council was used combined with an action research design with 5 haematological doctors, 5 nurses, 6 patients with haematological malignancies, and 4 caregivers. For evaluating the effectiveness of the adapted concept as well as understanding the processes of change, a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods was performed with two questionnaire scales, focus group, and dyad interviews.
Results: There were no significant correlations between before and after on either of the two scales. Among the individual questions within the two scales, seven questions showed significant difference from before to after the course or between participants and control group. The analysis of the questionnaire data points to that participants might increase confidence in their own abilities to include existential aspects in patient care and make changes in care plan, if needed. It also seemed that nurses and doctors who found it important to care for patients’ existential concerns and believe this to be an important part of their job were more likely to participate in the SICP concept. The qualitative analysis points to the importance of interdisciplinarity of the nurse and doctor in the SICP because then the patient’s and caregiver’s preferences are integrated in the treatment and care plan, and it strengthens conversations involving medical, holistic, and existential issues. It particularly seemed how time allocated for the conversation and the preparatory materials for the conversations highly influenced outcome of the conversation.
Conclusions: The implementation of adapted SICP is feasible in a hematological setting, and it facilitated overcoming barriers for offering more existential consultations in hematology. SICP concept have been implemented to all staff members of the myeloma/lymphoma clinic and to be integrated timely throughout the disease trajectory starting at the time of diagnosis.
Effects of dysregulated glucose metabolism on the occurrence and ART outcome of endometriosis
Authors: Chen Jian-Peng , Zhang Yan-Ye , Jin Jia-Ni , Ying Yue , Song Zhi-Min , Tu Mi-Xue , Ye Xiao-Hang , Tang Huan-Na , Ni Fei-Da , Ying Yan-Yun , Liu Juan , Li Jing-Yi , Zhang Dan
Published: March 2023

Background: Endometriosis can affect the systemic metabolic indicators, including body mass index, glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism, while the association between metabolic indexes and the occurrence and ART outcome of endometriosis is unclear. We aimed to evaluate the characteristics of systemic metabolic indexes of endometriosis patients with infertility and their effects on pregnancy outcome after ART treatment.
Methods:A retrospective cohort study involve 412 endometriosis patients and 1551 controls was conducted. Primary outcome was metabolic indexes, and secondary measures consisted of the influence of metabolic indexes on the number of retrieved oocytes and ART outcomes, as well as the relation between blood glucose and prevalence of GDM.
Results:Endometriosis patients had higher INS [6.90(5.10-9.50) vs 6.50(4.80-8.90) μU/mL, P = 0.005]. A prediction model for endometriosis combining the number of previous pregnancies, CA125, fasting blood Glu and INS, had a sensitivity of 73.9%, specificity of 67.8% and area AUC of 0.77. There were no significant differences in ART outcomes and complications. The levels of Glu were associated with GDM both in endometriosis group (aOR 12.95, 95% CI 1.69–99.42; P = 0.014) and in control group (aOR 4.15, 95% CI 1.50–11.53; P = 0.006).
Conclusions: Endometriosis patients had abnormal metabolic indexes, in which serum Glu and serum INS are related to the occurrence of endometriosis, the number of retrieved oocytes and the occurrence of GDM. A prediction model based on metabolic indexes was established, representing a promising non-invasive method to predict endometriosis patients with known pregnancy history.
Data distribution and tensor influence analysis of different clustering methods
Authors: Zhang Hongjun , li peng , Ye Hao , Shi Desheng , Xue Zhuangzhuang , Fan Weibei , Meng Fanshuo
Published: March 2023

At present, people are in the era of big data, which is changing people's views of the world. However, it has the characteristics of various types, huge scale, and complex relationships. In order to solve the repeated calculation caused by streaming data in the processing of tensor-based big data, there will also be dimension disasters. Therefore, in this paper, an incremental tensor train decomposition (ITTD) method is proposed to solve multi-clustering problem in tensor-based big data analysis systems. It mainly uses results of the tensor train decomposition obtained from the original tensor to calculate and updates the results of tensor train decomposition to avoid the repetitive decomposition of the original tensor and enhance the decomposition efficiency. The performance of ITTD method is tested through theoretical analysis, a large number of simulation data and a comparative experiment on the real data of public transportation in a region. The experimental results indicate that the execution time of ITTD is significantly shorter than that of nonincremental tensor train decomposition(NTTD) with time. However, as time goes by, there is no obvious difference in the approximation error and storage space between the two.. This shows that, compared to that of the traditional nonincremental method, if the approximation error and storage space are close, the execution time of the incremental method will be greatly shortened. It can improve the processing efficiency of multi-clustering problems in the tensor-based big data analysis system.
Magnitude and Associated Factors of intraoperative hyperglycemia among orthopedics surgical patients. A cross-sectional study
Authors: Gebeyehu Geresu , Leta Gutu , shiferaw selamawit
Published: March 2023

Background: Intraoperative hyperglycemia is a common problem among patients undergoing orthopedic surgery. Its incidence varies from country to country and not clearly studied in developing countries.
Method:Multi-center cross-sectional study was conducted on eligible adult elective patients who underwent orthopedic surgical procedures. The participants were selected using a systematic random sampling technique. Data was collected on basic characteristics, medical and surgical history. On the arrival of patients to the OR, blood glucose was measured and recorded and repeated after administering anesthesia. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and bivariate and multivariate logistic regression. P<0.05 was considered as statistically significant.
Results: Intraoperative hyperglycemia was observed in 20.4% of patients. Hypothermia (AOR:2.45;95% CI:0.97-6.27, p=0.05), infused dextrose iv fluids (AOR:2.94;95% CI:1.64-5.16, p=0.05) , blood transfusion (AOR:6.64;95% CI:2.92-15.08, p=0.00) and history of hypertension (AOR:2.19;95% CI:1.23-3.71, p=0.01) were factors identified to be associated with intraoperative hyperglycemia.
Conclusions and recommendations
This study showed the magnitude of intraoperative hyperglycemia was high. Anesthetists should identify all risk factors preoperatively and make appropriate adjustments for patient care. Hypertension should be optimized, refrain from routine administering of dextrose IV fluids, and unnecessary transfusions, as well as monitor patients’ body temperature.
N-(4-Substituted Aryl) amino acids as potential antibacterial agents
Authors: Osinubi Adejoke , Asekun Olayinka , Familoni Oluwole
Published: March 2023

Resistance of bacteria to current antibiotic drugs and the reoccurrence of different ailments after several therapeutic protocols have continued to be a cause of concern. Arylated amino acids are vital synthons to many compounds, they serve as essential building blocks in the synthesis of nitrogen heterocycles with various biological activities. This research reports the synthesis of some N-aryl amino acids and evaluates their antibacterial activities. The N-aryl amino acids 3a-3j were obtained by reacting different 4-substituted fluorobenzene 1a-1d with different amino acids 2a-2g via a metal-free, base-induced aryl amination reaction of aryl halides. The antibacterial activities of the synthesised compounds were evaluated against eight bacterial strains (Four gram-positive: Bacillus subtilis (ATCC 6633), Streptococcus pneumonia (ATCC 33400), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923), Staphylococcus epidermidis (ATCC 14990) and four gram-negative: Enterobacter cloacae (ATCC 43560), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Proteus mirabilis (ATCC 43071) and Klebsiella oxytoca (ATCC 13182) using the agar well diffusion method with streptomycin as a reference drug. The biological screening indicates the synthesised compounds 3a, 3e, and 3j have promising broad-spectrum antibacterial potential as the N-aryl amino acid displayed comparable to better activity with the standard drug against Streptococcus pneumonia, Escherichia coli, and Proteus mirabilis.
Assessment of Epiphytic Pathogens from Different Media, Associated with some Ready-for-sale Fresh-Fruits and Vegetables in Selected Markets within Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Omobola Areo Esther , Amara Anyogu , J. Fowora M. , O. Omemu M. , B. Oyewole O. , O. Obadina A.
Published: March 2023

This study evaluated microbial safety (incidence, risk levels and prevalence) of fresh produce from three states in 30 open-markets in Southwest, Nigeria. Total Viable Count of Enteriobacteriacaea, coliforms and Listeria (using four broths and five agar) were done on homogenised samples (n = 180). Epiphytes prevalence decrease with cabbage from [Ondo (4.33%), Lagos (3.52%), Osun (2.71)]; carrot [Osun (2.80%), Lagos (2.26%) and Ondo (1.81%)]; cucumber [Ondo (3.52%), Osun (3.25%) and Lagos (2.89%)]; garden egg and tomato [Lagos (4.15% and 3.61%), Osun (2.17% and 2.89%) and Ondo (1.71% and 2.44) respectively]; watermelon and all fresh produce [Lagos (2.98% and 19.40%), Ondo (1.99% and 15.79%) and Osun (1.71% and 15.52) respectively]. PALCAM and XLD agar have highest isolation rate, sensitivity, differential ability and effectiveness but low selectivity. Tomato from Lagos State markets showed 0.00x100 cfu/g on VRBG, BGA and XLD. Fresh produce epiphytes prevalence increased in Lagos from [carrot (2.26%), cucumber (2.89%), watermelon (2.98%), cabbage (3.52%), tomatoes (3.61%) to garden egg (4.15%)]; Osun State [water melon (1.71%), garden egg (2.17%), cabbage (2.71%), carrot (2.80%), tomatoes (2.89%) to cucumber (3.25%)]; in Ondo State [garden egg (1.71%), carrot (1.81%), watermelon (1.99%), tomatoes (2.44%) cucumber (3.52%) to cabbage (4.33%)]. Hence, fresh produce are route of food poisoning.
Assessment of the Impact of Health Maintenance Organizations on Access, Utilization, and Quality of Service among National Health Insurance Authority Enrollees in Kano, Kano State Nigeria
Authors: Yusuf Gidado
Published: March 2023

Effort by government in Nigeria to provide effective ways of accessing quality and affordable healthcare service has been contentious with high cost of health care service delivery. The ineffective management of health care funds over the years was observed as key contributor to the rising cost of healthcare services. The need for the establishment of health maintenance organizations (HMOs) whose responsibility as purchasers, was to manage health care services with health facilities providers under the National Health Insurance Authority Scheme (NHIA). However, this research seeks to assess the impact of healthcare purchasers in Kano state Nigeria, as regards knowledge, utilization, and satisfaction of enrollees whose healthcare services they manage. The study utilized analysis of enrollees, HMOs and desk officers under the scheme. Quantitative and qualitative methods using interviewer administered questionnaire and Key stakeholders’ interview was used. Data were recorded in Microsoft Excel 2010 and analyzed using SPSS version 23.0. NVIVO version 12 with verbatim transcription was used for thematic analysis of qualitative data. Chi-square used to test degree of association and Logistic regression utilized to predict factors for the determinants. Results were presented as tables and charts. Statistical significance p-value <0.05 at confidence level of 95% was considered significant. Thus, analysis of the general demographic outcomes showed a significant association between HMOs and enrollees’ level of knowledge, utilization and satisfaction (p<0.05). Conversely, analysis of federal, state and private run facilities separately, revealed varying outcome as regards the three determinants, with the state-run hospitals mostly affected in terms of enrollee’s outcome. Keywords: Desk officers, Health Maintenance Organizations, Knowledge, National Health Insurance Authority, Satisfaction, Utilization.
General Characteristics of the Unamendable Norms of the Constitution
Authors: Berchenko Hryhorii
Published: March 2023

The article considers the phenomenon of unchanging provisions of the constitution, their evolution, different classifications. Immutable provisions are considered narrowly – as provisions that are not subject to any changes, as well as criteria (principles), which the changes made should notcontradict. Synonymous concepts denoting immutability are considered – absolute entrenchment, the clause of eternity, stone provisions. The idea of supra-constitutionality, however, is seen as a different phenomenon from the unchanging provisions of the constitution. It is claimed that thematerial (substantive, substantive) requirements for change were not common from the beginning (although the situation has changed quite a few centuries). As practice shows, immutability can be not only formally established in a positive constitutional text. Existing examples lead us to thinkabout the important role of judges who interpret a positive constitutional text. In this case, the constituent power speaks not only through the positive text of the constitution, but also through the judges (for the Kelzen model of constitutional control – the judges of the constitutional court).The unchanging provisions themselves can be changed, as evidenced by relevant examples from practice (albeit isolated). In addition, history knows examples of departure from the positively enshrined immutable provisions (in the case of a rupture of constitutional continuity). Even if theprovisions remain unchanged, there may be no specific jurisdiction to monitor compliance. The absence of explicit immutability does not mean that the practice has not formed implicit criteria of immutability. However, even combined explicit and implicit immutability can still not claimuniversalism in constitutional law.
Психологические маркеры созависимого поведения: теория и практика
Authors: Колёнова Анастасия С. , Кукуляр Анна М. , Дятлова Лидия А.
Published: March 2023

Введение. Целью статьи является аналитический обзор научных подходов к исследованию особенностей психологических маркеров созависимого поведения. Рассмотрены современные подходы к изучению данного феномена с точки зрения теоретического и практического аспектов, отражающие фрагментарный характер представленности данного понятия. Существует не только несколько дефиниций понятия «созависимость», но и множество подходов к его изучению. На основе теоретического анализа различных подходов было предложено авторское определение феномена, что отражает научную новизну исследования. Теоретическое обоснование исследуемой проблематики было выполнено на основе анализа литературных источников, сравнительного анализа и обобщения зарубежных и отечественных подходов к изучаемому термину «созависимость», апробации авторской трактовки исследуемого термина. Результаты. На основе аналитического обзора выделены психологические маркеры созависимого поведения, проявляющиеся через выученный набор поведенческих форм, нарушение адаптации, различные нарушения личности. Показано, что описание психологических характеристик, относящихся к феномену созависимости, достаточно обширно, но при этом не носит системный характер. Намечены идеи не только для продолжения изучения психологических маркеров созависимого поведения, но и для поиска генетических факторов, обуславливающих данное поведение. Обсуждение результатов. Нами выделена трактовка термина «созависимость» как феномена, проявляющегося в зависимом поведении, обусловленного изменением ценностно-смысловых конструктов и недостатком необходимых компетенций, формирующегося под влиянием негативного опыта дисфункциональных отношений со значимыми другими. Данное определение объединяет ряд подходов и обогащает их взглядом сквозь призму глубинных особенностей личности, проявляющей созависимые паттерны поведения.
Solid State Fermentation of Groundnut Shell by Schizophyllum commune BCC26414 for Production of Cellobiose Dehydrogenase
Authors: Yadav Vinita
Published: March 2023

Cellobiose dehydrogenase (CDH) enzyme is secreted extracellularly by wood-rotting fungi of the phyla Basidiomycetes and Ascomycetes. The reducing ends of cellobiose, lactose, and maltose are oxidized by CDH to produce their respective lactones. These lactones are consequently converted into their carboxylic acids such as cellobionic acid, lactobionic acid, and maltobionic acid. Due to its commercial unavailability and its applications in various fields, there is a need for cost-effective CDH production. In the present work, Schizophyllum commune BCC26414 has been used for CDH production by solid-state fermentation (SSF). CDH production was optimized by one factor at a time (OFAT) approach in terms of initial moisture content, inoculum size, incubation temperature, particle size, and fermentation time. BBD (Box-Behnken Design) was used to perform statistical optimization of CDH production using statistical software, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) Maximum CDH production was obtained when groundnut shell was used as a substrate at 30°C on 9th day of incubation, with 0.5mm to 1mm particle size, 2 ml inoculum size, and the initial moisture content 50% using Schizophyllum commune BCC26414. RSM enhances enzyme production to 1.6-fold as compared to unoptimized conditions. This is the first report on solid-state CDH production using groundnut shells as solid substrate. A variety of CDH applications have been reported in the fields of biomedical, biocatalysts, bioremediation, and biosensors. This study will be helpful in the cost-effective production of CDH for various applications.