bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Trial Preparation Factors Influence Audit Litigation Outcomes: Insights from Audit Litigators
Authors: Maksymov Eldar , Peecher Mark E. , Pickerd Jeffrey , Zhou Yuepin
Published: November 2023

Research indicates that auditors have an impoverished understanding of trial preparation factors that, independent of audit quality, can significantly elevate audit litigation risk. As the scholarly literature sheds little insight about the nature and implications of these factors, we identify what factors audit litigators consider in trial preparation, how they expect these factors to affect litigation outcomes, and how they attempt to leverage these factors. To do so, we interview 39 audit litigators, who identify factors germane to trial venues, jury pools, and case arguments. Guided by the elaboration likelihood model, we construct a framework that predicts these factors influence litigation outcomes by changing jurors’ motivation and/or capability to elaborate. Importantly, we find that litigators who defend (sue) auditors strategically maneuver these factors to increase (decrease) the likelihood of higher juror elaboration, because higher elaboration is favorable to auditors. We discuss implications of our results for practice and research.

JEL Classifications: K22; K40; K41; M4; M41; M42.
Electromyography based hand movement classification and feature extraction using machine learning algorithms
Authors: EKİNCİ Ekin , GARİP Zeynep , SERBEST Kasım
Published: November 2023

The categorization of hand gestures holds significant importance in controlling orthotic and prosthetic devices, enabling human-machine interaction, and facilitating telerehabilitation applications. For many years, methods of motion analysis based on image processing techniques have been employed to detect hand motions. However, recent research has focused on utilizing muscle contraction for detecting hand movements. Specifically, there has been an increase in studies that classify hand movements using surface electromyography (sEMG) data from the muscles of the hand and arm. In our study, we estimated the open (extension of the fingers) and closed (flexion of the fingers) positions of the hand by analyzing EMG data obtained from 4 volunteer participants' Extensor digitorum and Flexor carpi radialis muscles. In order to accurately discriminate EMG signals, various statistical measures such as variance, standard deviation, root mean square, average energy, minimum and maximum features were utilized. The dataset containing these additional features was then subjected to classification algorithms including Support Vector Machines (SVM), K Nearest Neighbour (KNN), Decision Tree (DT), and Gaussian Naive Bayes (GNB) for the purpose of classifying hand positions into open or closed states. Among the tested algorithms, SVM achieved the highest success rate with a maximum accuracy of 73.1%, while KNN yielded the lowest success rate at a minimum accuracy of 55.9%. To further enhance prediction accuracy in future studies, it is suggested that data from a larger set of muscles be collected.
Effects of Magnoliae Flos on Atopic Dermatitis-Like Inflammation Evaluated via Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinase or Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription 1/3 Signalling Pathways
Authors: Gil Tae-Young , Jin Bo-Ram , Park Yea-Jin , Kim Hye-Min , An Hyo-Jin
Published: November 2023

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory skin  disease. Skin is the largest organ and plays a pivotal role in protecting the body. Not only does the skin act as a physical barrier against the external environment, but it also has its own immune system. Atopic dermatitis is caused by prolonged excessive inflammatory responses that worsen under imbalanced cutaneous immune system skin conditions. Although the prevalence and burden of atopic dermatitis is increasing, the standard therapeutic agents remain unclear due to  the complicated pathophysiology of the condition. The objective of this study is to examine the use of Magnoliae flos, the dried flower bud of Magnolia biondii or  related plants. The effects and underlying mechanism of  action of aqueous extract of the buds of Magnoliae flos (MF) were evaluated. Immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaT) stimulated with tumour necrosis factor-α and interferon-γ mixture and NC/Nga mice stimulated with 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene were used as atopic dermatitis models, in vitro and in vivo, respectively. The effects of MF were determined by measuring the suppression of pro-inflammatory signalling pathways, such as extracellular signal-regulated kinase or signal transducers and activators of transcription 1/3 and restoring skin barrier molecules. In conclusion, MF is a potential therapeutic alternative for the treatment of atopic dermatitis through repressing inflammatory pathways.
Lorentz force in vortex electric field
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Tchaban Vasyl
Published: November 2023

In our time, the functions of the law of interaction of moving charged bodies have been taken over entirely by the relativistic theory under the guise of a pseudo-slogan about the inability of Galileo's transformations. In contrast, the article adapts the Lorentz force to the case of moving charges in the all-possible range of velocities in the usual three-dimensional Euclidean space and time. This takes into account the finite rate of propagation of an electric field and the law of conservation of elect­ric charge. On this basis, the trajectory of the free motion of electron in a non-uniform electric field generated by a positively charged spherical body is simulate
Analysis of the pointwise completeness and the pointwise degeneracy of the standard and fractional descriptor linear systems and electrical circuits
Authors: Kaczorek Tadeusz
Published: November 2023

The Drazin inverse of matrices is applied to analysis of the pointwise completeness and the pointwise degeneracy of the descriptor  standard and fractional linear continuous-time and discrete-time systems. It is shown that: 1) The descriptor linear continuous-time system is pointwise complete if and only if the initial and final states belong to the same subspace. 2) The descriptor linear discrete-time system is not pointwise complete if its system matrix is singular. 3) System obtained by discretization of continuous-time system is always not pointwise complete. 4) The descriptor linear continuous-time system is not pointwise degenerated in any nonzero direction for all nonzero initial conditions. 5) The descriptor fractional system is pointwise complete if the matrix defined by (36) is invertible. 6) The descriptor fractional system is pointwise degenerated if and only if the condition (41) is satisfied. Considerations are illustrated by examples of descriptor linear electrical circuits.
Benefits of Practicing Sports for Children with Cerebral Palsy. A Literature Review
Authors:   Faculty of Physiotherapy, National University of Physical Education and Sports (UNEFS), Bucharest, Romania. Email: dina_alex76@yahoo.com., Dina Alexandru-Mădălin
Published: November 2023

"Physical therapy is one of the most important concerns in an infantile cerebral palsy diagnosis. Multiple studies debate in various directions about the necessity of rehabilitation and reintegration in society as functional persons. There are children who need to do physical therapy for all their life long, but there are also children who reach the main rehabilitation objectives. What should they all do more than physical therapy programs? Does the finished physical therapy sessions is enough for rehabilitated cerebral palsy symptoms? What we propose is physical activity which includes diversity from the point of view of stimulus, interests, social inclusion, and team involvement. All this means adapted sports practice along the physical therapy sessions. All the children involved are stimulated to change their routine and bring some competitiveness, creativity, fun, to participate with others in physical practice, as physical therapy is in general an activity done by him/herself. Bringing together sport and therapy, children’s development is improved from physical abilities, fine and motor skills, psychical abilities and cognitive point of view. Introducing sports between physical therapy sessions or after the rehabilitation program, we actually manage to increase the progression pace and to maintain the gains over the deficiencies. As physical health is related to mental well-being, every child who’s involved in sports is actually doing a type of treatment. This review explores the benefits of sports for a cerebral palsy diagnosed child. Keywords: physical therapy, sports, cerebral palsy, self-confidence, disabled children."
“Resulta aberrante su actuar”: Mujeres acusadas de delincuencia organizada
Authors: Velázquez Moreno Sara Elena , Treviño Rangel Javier
Published: November 2023

Entre 2017 y 2021 se duplicó la cantidad de mujeres acusadas de delincuencia organizada en México y, actualmente, este es el delito más común entre mujeres privadas de la libertad en centros de reclusión federales. Sin embargo, los análisis académicos acerca de mujeres acusadas por este delito son todavía marginales. Y los pocos estudios existentes sobre este tipo penal tienden a ignorar el género de la persona acusada. Si lo hacen, suelen representar a las mujeres acusadas de manera dicotómica y superficial: como “víctimas” de la organización de la que forman parte o como “perpetradoras” de actos ilícitos en los que, de manera activa y voluntaria, deciden participar en la delincuencia organizada. Este artículo es un estudio exploratorio, enmarcado en la sociología del derecho, que busca contribuir al análisis crítico de este tema. Analiza la poca evidencia disponible al respecto de 67 sentencias judiciales a 72 mujeres acusadas de delincuencia organizada, además, se utilizaron datos estadísticos del Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía (inegi). Esta investigación presenta dos hallazgos principales. Primero, el delito de delincuencia organizada sirve como sustituto de una investigación: las acusaciones por delincuencia organizada permiten detener y mantener a las mujeres en prisión sin un trabajo de investigación previo. Segundo, es insostenible la división “víctima”/“perpetradora” sobre la que se basan la mayoría de los análisis, que tienden a simplificar los roles diversos y complejos que desempeñan las mujeres en grupos de delincuencia organizada.
PERCEPÇÃO SOBRE ESPÉCIES EXÓTICAS E NATIVAS NA ARBORIZAÇÃO DE ESCOLAS NA CIDADE DE MOSSORÓ, RN, BRASIL
Authors: Souza Louise Caroline de Aquino , Castro Vinicius Gomes de , Botrel Rejane Tavares
Published: November 2023

Embora prevista por lei, a educação ambiental nem sempre é abordada de forma prática e participativa na vivência de estudantes do ensino fundamental. Como solução, a própria área verde da escola pode se tornar um importante espaço para contextualizar o ensino teórico dado em sala de aula. O presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar quali-quantitativamente as áreas verdes de 12 escolas públicas e privadas do ensino fundamental no município de Mossoró, Rio Grande do Norte, e a percepção ambiental dos estudantes do 9º ano. A arborização das escolas foi avaliada por meio do levantamento das espécies arbóreas, categorizadas em exóticas ou nativas dos biomas brasileiros e quanto ao estágio de desenvolvimento (muda ou adulto) com a quantificação do número de indivíduos de cada uma delas. A percepção foi avaliada em dois momentos por meio de questionários estruturados: antes e depois da realização de palestras a respeito do uso de espécies nativas e exóticas na arborização urbana. Foram identificadas 20 espécies, sendo as exóticas Azadirachta indica, Ficus benjamina e Mangifera indica aquelas com os maiores números de indivíduos. Dentre as nativas, destacaram-se Handroanthus impetiginosus e Tabebuia aurea. Em relação à percepção dos estudantes, foi observada diferença nas respostas de antes e depois da ação de educação ambiental. Conclui-se que há preferência pelo uso de espécies exóticas nas escolas, bem como um desconhecimento sobre os possíveis benefícios do uso de espécies nativas por parte dos estudantes.
Empreendedorismo em barbearias
Authors: Sandes Jonatas da Mota , Oliveira Edi Carlos de
Published: November 2023

A constante evolução tecnológica vem fazendo com que antigos modelos de negócios sejam atualizados, de modo que o segmento de barbearias é um dos nichos de mercado que tem se modificado bastante com essa evolução. Deste modo, o presente artigo tem por objetivo analisar os processos de inovação como elementos impulsionadores da melhoria do atendimento, a partir da perspectiva dos empreendedores e dos clientes de barbearias do município de Terra Rica – PR. Tal proposta de investigação se justifica pela demonstração da importância do desenvolvimento contínuo, da inovação e da criatividade na qualidade dos serviços oferecidos aos clientes, que contribui na ampliação do marketshare das empresas no mercado. Quanto à classificação, trata-se de uma pesquisa qualitativa, descritiva, realizada junto aos empreendedores e aos clientes de três barbearias. Os dados primários foram coletados por meio de entrevistas semiestruturadas, totalizando 39 pessoas (3 empreendedores e 36 clientes), analisados através da técnica de análise de conteúdo. Os resultados apontam que muitos clientes não veem a barbearia como um lugar apenas para cortar o cabelo, mas também como um local em que podem ir para conversar e criar novos círculos de amizades. Assim, constatou-se que os empreendedores possuem uma visão de longo prazo de seus próprios empreendimentos e que, através da inovação, buscam diferenciar seus empreendimentos por meio do novo conceito de barbearias, que contrasta enormemente em relação ao tradicional modelo de salão de corte de cabelo, que vigorava até então.
Palavras-chave: empreendedorismo; inovação; barbearias; atendimento ao cliente.
Multifunctional agriculture in the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Bibliometric review
Authors: Esquivel-Marín Nancy Harlet , Sagarnaga-Villegas Leticia Myriam , Barrera-Perales Octavio Tadeo , Leos-Rodríguez Juan Antonio , Salas-González José María
Published: November 2023

The aim of this work was to analyse the systemic structure of multifunctional agriculture (MFA) and its nexus with sustainability through a bibliometric review of existing literature. By monitoring articles published on the Web of Science platform, a sample of 432 documents was identified. Two software packages, Bibliometrix and VOSviewer, were used to map scientific collaboration networks. The results made it possible to identify the authors, journals, and countries that had given rise to the current structure of knowledge. Four broad thematic clusters were identified: a) MFA and sustainability; b) ecosystem services and biodiversity; c) European public policies; d) governance and urban agriculture. It is concluded that despite an increase in publication rates research is concentrated in Europe, and, furthermore, there are few collaborative networks between different disciplines, suggesting that SDG17 is not being achieved.
Propagation of rose varieties by cuttings under the effect of different rooting hormones
Authors: Kentelky Endre , Székely-Varga Zsolt , Balla Géza
Published: November 2023

Roses are one of the oldest and perhaps most noble and beautiful plants in the world. The propagation of roses by stem cutting is the simplest and a largely used method to multiply them. For the present experiment, seven varieties of roses were selected as follows: ‘Monika’, ‘Mr. Lincoln’, ‘Queen Elisabeth’, ‘The Fairy’, ‘Peace’, ‘King’s Ransom’, and ‘Don Juan’. To assess the differences between the varieties, growth, root length, root number, and frost damage were determined. The aim of the experiment is to determine which rose varieties are better suited to propagation by cuttings, which varieties have a higher rooting tendency, and to what extent the rooting could be influenced by rooting hormones [Incit-8 (0.8% of 1-Naphthaleneacetic acid) and Radi-Stim®]. From our results, it could be determined that the Incit-8 positively influenced the number of roots of all varieties. In conclusion, our research suggests that the rooting hormones increase the rooting of the rose varieties; moreover, that proper rooting could also be depending on the appropriate conditions.
Dendrometric study of stands of Pistacia atlantica in southwestern Algeria
Authors: Benaradj Abdelkrim , Boucherit Hafidha , Djamel Anteur , Ababou Adda
Published: November 2023

In the southwestern part of Algeria, the stands of Atlas pistachio (Pistacia atlantica Desf.) constitute a special natural heritage. They are usually scattered between the steppe plains and the Saharan Atlas. This study was conducted with the aim of identifying the dendrometric characteristics of Atlas pistachio that could be indicators of good productivity. The aim is to investigate the influence of stationary factors (slope, exposure, geology) on the dendrometric characteristics of Pistacia atlantica. The results obtained on the dendrometric parameters of this species are very interesting. From a dendrometric approach, Pistacia atlantica is a large tree that can reach impressive dendrometric dimensions: 8 to 10 meters in height and a diameter often exceeding 100 cm. This dendrometric analysis allowed us to make a structural characterization of stands of Pistacia atlantica, which is an essential step in the management plan and the valuation in the medium or long term. This species of Pistacia atlantica deserves adequate measures of protection, especially in its natural environment. Therefore, a better knowledge of their potentialities, problems, and factors of the decline of this hardy species would contribute to the protection and the preservation to favour their regeneration, which would allow a better extension of this species.
Micromechanical Properties of Reactive HiTUS TiNbVTaZrHf–N Coatings on Different Substrates
Authors: Lofaj František , Csanádi Tamás , Kvetková Lenka , Hviščová Petra , Kabátová Margita , Kovalčíková Alexandra , Vojtko Marek , Girman Vladimir
Published: November 2023

High entropy ceramic coatings, including multicomponent transition metal nitrides called also high entropy nitrides (HEN), are usually deposited using reactive arc and/or DC magnetron (co)sputtering. High Target Utilization Sputtering (HiTUS) was not applied in HEN systems up to now. Subsequently, the mechanical properties of HEN coatings prepared by HiTUS are also not known. The transition metals from the 4th and 5th group of the periodic table (Ti, Zr, Hf, Nb, V, and Ta) are strong nitride formers which would be the most suitable for HEN coating systems and therefore, investigation of their properties would be of significant interest. However, the nanoindentation measurements on thin coatings always produce „composite“ values involving the contribution from the substrate. The separation of the coating properties from composite values requires upgraded analytical approaches different from standard Oliver & Pharr analysis. Thus, the aim work is to investigate the structure, hardness, and elastic modulus of TiZrHfNbVTa–xN coatings with different nitrogen stoichiometry deposited by reactive HiTUS using both CSM for bulk and CSM for thin films methods and to compare the results obtained on 4 different substrates (Si wafer, sapphire, 100Cr6 steel, and Ti6Al4V alloy). The subsequent results showed systematic differences in the calculated mechanical properties depending on the substrate properties both in CSM and CSMTF modes. Stiffer substrates always resulted in the overestimations of the calculated hardness and indentation modulus compared to softer substrates with lower Young’s modulus and the differences were in the range of around 10 %. Obviously, better theoretical models for the calculations of true coating properties are required.
AVALIAÇÃO DE EXTRATOS DE PIMENTAS NO CONTROLE DO BOLOR VERDE DOS CITROS (Penicillium digitatum)
Authors: DOS SANTOS Diego Ramiro Noronha , RIBEIRO Luiz Fernando Caldeira
Published: November 2023

As doenças de pós-colheita são responsáveis por enormes perdas na qualidade dos frutos cítricos e com isso há uma depreciação no valor comercial desses produtos agrícolas. Dentre as principais doenças, o Bolor Verde dos citros (Penicillium digitatum) é o que causa as maiores perdas em relação às outras podridões comuns em frutos cítricos, em pós-colheita. Para buscar métodos de controle que causem menos impacto ao meio ambiente, há o uso de controle alternativo com extratos vegetais, que tem se tornado uma linha de pesquisa na fitopatologia. O experimento teve como objetivo a avaliação do desempenho dos extratos nos sistemas de cultivo in vivo e in vitro, com tratamentos compostos por três pimentas, a Bode Vermelha (Capsicum Annuum), a Bode Salmão (Capsicum chinense) e a Malagueta (Capsicum frutescens), avaliadas na forma de extratos naturais, sendo a concentração do extrato nos tratamentos 00, 100, 200, 500, 1.000, 2.000, 5.000 e 10.000 ppm (partes por milhão). Os resultados médios foram submetidos à análise da variância de Scott Knott a 1% de probabilidade. Na avaliação das repetições, foi usado o modelo de regressão analítica para os tratamentos em cada espécie. Os resultados mostraram que a Pimenta Bode Vermelha foi mais eficiente no controle do Bolor Verde das citros, seguida pela Pimenta Bode Salmão e pela Pimenta Malagueta.
 
EVALUATION OF PEPPER EXTRACT IN THE CONTROL OF CITRUS GREEN MOLD (Penicillium digitatum)
 
ABSTRACT
Postharvest diseases are responsible for huge declines in the quality of citrus fruit and, as a result, a depreciation in the commercial value of these agricultural products. Green citrus mold (Penicillium digitatum) is one of the main diseases that cause the greatest losses compared to other common post-harvest decays on citrus fruits. In order to find control methods with lower environmental impact, the use of alternative control with plant extracts has become a field of research in phytopathology. The experiment aimed to evaluate the performance of the extracts in the in vivo and in vitro culture conditions, with treatments consisting of three chili peppers, Chili Pepper (Capsicum Annuum), Habanero Pepper (Capsicum chinense), and Tabasco (Capsicum frutescens), evaluated in the form of natural extracts, with the concentration of the extract in the treatments being 00, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000 and 10,000 ppm (parts per million). The average results were submitted to Scott Knott's analysis of variance at 1% probability. To evaluate the repetitions, the analytical regression model was used for the treatments in each species. The results showed that Red Chili Pepper was the most effective at controlling green citrus mold, followed by Habanero Pepper, and Tabasco Pepper.
 
Keywords: Postharvest, Penicillium digitatum, Plant extracts, Alternative control.
Evaluation of the Salivary Oxidative Stress, and Non-Enzymatic Antioxidants Marker in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: R. Sarhat Entedhar , R. Sarhat Ashoor , Najat Mustafa Zubaidah , A. Wadi Siham
Published: November 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease that preferentially affects diarthrodial joints. Oxidative stress is elevated in RA patients implying reactive oxygen species (ROS) are possible mediators of tissue damage. Assess the level of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and non-enzymatic antioxidants (vitamin E, and C )in the saliva of in patients with rheumatoid arthritis(RA). For the realization of our goals we included sixty rheumatoid arthritis patients (RA) (21 female and 39 male) who were fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology and European League Against Rheumatism 2010 revised criteria for classification of RA ,picked randomly, at the age from 25-57 years, and 60 as age matched control group, who attended to Tikrit Teaching Hospital / Tikrit / Iraq during the period from January 2017 to March 2018. Stimulated saliva specimens were collected at the morning. TAC of saliva was evaluated by spectrophotometric assay. Statistical comparisons were performed using Student’s t-test, by SPSS 13. Levels of salivary pH, flow rate, TAC, vit E and C were decreased significantly, whereas the salivary level of MDA were increased significantly in RA patients when compared with healthy controls. There was an increased oxidative stress and a low antioxidant status in patients with RA. These changes are probably due to efforts for reducing lipid peroxidation and hence to lower tissue damage.
MENINGKATKAN PEMAHAMAN KONSEP PADA MATERI STATISTIKA DENGAN MEDIA PEMBELAJARAN VIDEO INTERAKTIF PADA SISWA KELAS VIII SMP NEGERI 4 LIMBOTO
Authors: Abdulah Siska , Hulukati Evi , Nurwan Nurwan , Ismail Yamin , Zakiyah Siti
Published: November 2023

This study aims to increase students' understanding of concepts using interactive video learning media on statistical material. The type of research used is classroom action and is carried out at SMP Negeri 4 Limboto in the even semester of the 2021-2022 academic year. The subjects of this study were 28. The assessments used in the study were teacher and student observation sheets and concept understanding tests. This research was conducted in 2 cycles. The average percentage of teacher observations from cycles I and II reached 70.8% and 80.8%, resulting in an increase of 10%. Furthermore, the average percentage of student observations reached 67.5% and 81.25% so that there was an increase of 13.75%. The results of the student's concept understanding test also increased from 64.29% to 82.14%. In cycle II, all aspects assessed have reached the indicators of learning success by using interactive video learning media
Situational model of bullying in business communication
Authors: Baigazanova Roza
Published: November 2023

The subject of the study is speech activity affecting the participants of bullying situations in the context of business communications; linguistic means of implementing business bullying strategies and tactics when creating a negative media image of companies and persons in the context of information attacks; media linguistic characteristics of texts related to bullying phenomena in business communication (structure, vocabulary, style, etc.); extralinguistic factors influencing the manifestation and perception of bullying in the business environment, including socio-cultural, psychological and economic aspects. The object of the study is destructive verbal content with signs of business bullying placed in open communication channels, including its media and linguistic manifestations. Within the framework of this work, the emphasis is placed on the specifics of the media linguistic analysis of business communication texts in the context of bullying, as well as on external factors that can influence this process. Special attention is paid to the structure of subject-object relations in the practice of information aggression directed against business. The methodology has developed under the influence of modern media linguistics, when an activity-procedural, praxeological approach to the analysis of the media text is implemented. The thematic discourse of business bullying is distinguished by the length of time, complex interactions, and multicomponent structure of the linguistic architecture of media communication, so the basic method was the praxeological transdisciplinary and interdisciplinary integration of research methods, procedures and techniques – formed the basis of the work. The relevance of the research is due to the combination of the rapidly changing digital landscape, the social responsibility of business and the need for effective strategies to prevent or respond to bullying cases in business communication. The scientific novelty lies in the identification of linguistic signs of business bullying and the construction of communication models of business bullying. The results obtained can be used both in academic research and in the practical activities of the business community. The author proposes to build communication situational models of bullying in the context of business communication on the basis of subject-object relations, which allow to determine patterns of information aggression, analyze components, specify the role of participants, isolate manipulative practices, build business risk strategies, formulate strategies to combat and overcome the consequences of business bullying.
Coexistence of Granuloma Annulare and Castleman’s Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Falgout Lacey
Published: November 2023

Granuloma annulare (GA) is a self-limited disorder that may present as localized or general. Localized GA, the most common form, presents as an erythematous annular plaque without scale. The generalized form of GA presents as widespread erythematous papules and plaques over the trunk and extremities. A cross-sectional study in the United States found a female to male prevalence ratio of 3:1 with a higher prevalence in the fifth decade of life.1 The etiology of GA is largely unknown; however, a number of potential inciting factors have been reported including viral infections, drug exposure, trauma, and insect bites.

Castleman’s Disease is a rare heterogenous lymphoproliferative disorder that encompasses a spectrum of clinicopathologic manifestations. Unicentric disease affects one lymph node or chain of lymph nodes with primarily hyaline vascular changes. The multicentric form affects multiple chains of lymph nodes with primarily plasmacytic changes. The pathogenesis is related to hypercytokinemia due to dysregulated interleukin-6 (IL-6) activity in unicentric disease and dysregulated IL-6 and human herpes virus-8 in multicentric disease.

We report a case of concomitant granuloma annulare and Castleman’s Disease.
Deucravacitinib in Plaque Psoriasis: Maintenance of Response Over 3 Years in the Phase 3 POETYK PSO-1 and PSO-2 Trials
Authors: Sofen Howard , Strober Bruce , Imafuku Shinichi , Paul Carle , Gooderham Melinda , Spelman Lynda , Seo Seong Jun , Passeron Thierry , Kisa Renata M. , Berger Victoria , Vritzali Eleni , Hoyt Kim , Colombo Matthew J. , Banerjee Subhashis , Augustin Matthias , Stein Gold Linda , Alexis Andrew , Thaçi Diamant , Blauvelt Andrew , Lebwohl Mark
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Deucravacitinib, an oral, selective, allosteric tyrosine kinase 2 inhibitor for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis, was superior to placebo and apremilast in two global, 52-week, phase 3 trials and maintained long-term efficacy through 2 years with no new safety signals in an ongoing long-term extension (LTE) trial. We report clinical efficacy for up to 3 years (148 weeks) in a subset of patients from these trials.

Materials: POETYK PSO-1 and PSO-2 randomized patients 1:2:1 to oral placebo, deucravacitinib 6 mg once daily (QD), or apremilast 30 mg twice daily. At Week 52, patients could enter the POETYK LTE and receive open-label deucravacitinib 6 mg QD. Deucravacitinib efficacy, as of June 15, 2022, was evaluated through Week 148 in patients from the pooled PSO-1/PSO-2 populations who received continuous deucravacitinib from Day 1, achieved ≥75% reduction from baseline in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 75) at Week 16 (primary endpoint) or at Week 24 (peak response), and entered the LTE. Maintenance of response assessments included PASI 75, PASI 90, and sPGA 0/1 (static Physician Global Assessment of 0 [clear] or 1 [almost clear] with a ≥2-point improvement from baseline), which were reported using modified nonresponder imputation.

Results: Of patients (N=513) who completed 52 weeks in the parent trials and received continuous deucravacitinib treatment from Day 1, 313 (61.4%) achieved PASI 75 at Week 16 and 336 (66.5%) achieved PASI 75 at Week 24. Among Week 16 PASI 75 responders, PASI 75, PASI 90, and sPGA 0/1 response rates were maintained from Week 52 (87.0%, 60.6%, and 70.8%, respectively) to Week 148 (84.5%, 60.0%, and 62.8%, respectively). Among Week 24 PASI 75 responders, PASI 75, PASI 90, and sPGA 0/1 response rates were maintained from Week 52 (90.2%, 61.6%, and 74.1%, respectively) to Week 148 (86.0%, 60.4%, and 64.5%, respectively).

Conclusion: Clinical efficacy was maintained with continuous deucravacitinib treatment in most Week 16 and Week 24 PASI 75 responders from the parent trials through 148 weeks, supporting long-term effectiveness of once-daily oral deucravacitinib for moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
Effect of Subcutaneous Spesolimab on the Prevention of Generalized Pustular Psoriasis Flares Over 48 weeks: Subgroup Analyses from the Effisayil 2 Trial
Authors: Warren Richard , Burden David , Choon Siew Eng , Gordon Kenneth , Puig Lluis , Mostaghimi Arash , Kokolakis Georgios , Hu Na , Hofmann Patrick , Thoma Christian , Anadkat Milan
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is characterized by flares of widespread pustulation and erythema that may be fatal. Spesolimab, an anti-interleukin-36 receptor monoclonal antibody, is approved to treat GPP flares. Effisayil 2 trial (NCT04399837) assessed efficacy and safety of spesolimab for prevention of GPP flares over 48 weeks. Here we show the efficacy of high-dose subcutaneous (SC) spesolimab for GPP flare prevention in prespecified subgroups in Effisayil 2.

 Methods: Eligible patients were randomized 1:1:1:1 to receive placebo, or low- (300 mg loading dose [LD]; 150 mg every 12 weeks [q12w]), medium- (600 mg LD; 300 mg q12w) or high-dose (600 mg LD; 300 mg every 4 weeks) SC spesolimab over 48 weeks.  We assessed the efficacy of high-dose spesolimab versus placebo across prespecified subgroups (including IL36RN mutation, comorbid plaque psoriasis [PsV], and body mass index [BMI] status) for the primary endpoint, time to first GPP flare by Week 48 (defined as a ≥2 GPPGA total score increase from baseline and ≥2 GPPGA pustulation score increase from baseline; subsequent use of rescue SC spesolimab also indicated a GPP flare), using a Cox regression analysis stratified by systemic use of GPP medications at randomization. Key secondary endpoint was proportion of patients with ≥1 GPP flare by Week 48.

Results: 123 patients were randomized (placebo, N=31; high-dose spesolimab, N=30). Hazard ratios (95% CI) for the primary endpoint favored high-dose spesolimab vs placebo in most prespecified subgroups, including: with IL36RN mutation, 0.04 (0.002, 1.152); without IL36RN mutation, 0.41 (0.109, 1.537); PsV absent at baseline, 0.14 (0.031, 0.629); PsV present at baseline, 0.22 (0.025, 1.883); and BMI <25 kg/m2, 0.22 (0.057, 0.816); 25 to <30 kg/m2, 0.12 (0.005, 2.817); and ≥30 kg/m2, 0.23 (0.008, 6.033). For the key secondary endpoint, adjusted risk differences (95% CI) by Week 48 were lower in those receiving high-dose spesolimab vs placebo in these prespecified subgroups: with IL36RN mutation, -0.75 (-1.000, -0.326); without IL36RN mutation, -0.22 (-0.504, 0.074); PsV absent at baseline, -0.41 (-0.672, -0.154); PsV present at baseline, -0.32 (-0.830, 0.191); and across all BMI subgroups.

 Conclusion: Over 48 weeks, high-dose spesolimab was effective at preventing GPP flares irrespective of IL36RN mutation, comorbid PsV and BMI status at baseline.
Flare Frequency and Duration in Patients with Generalized Pustular Psoriasis (GPP)
Authors: Jullien Denis , Azura Affandi , Misery Laurent , Jyh Jong Tang , Turki Haminda , Muniandy Pubalan , Tan Wooi Chiang
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP) is a rare, neutrophilic, chronic skin disease in which an overactivation of inflammatory pathways causes widespread erythema and eruption of sterile pustules that may coalesce into ‘lakes of pus’. GPP flares are heterogeneous, and there is no standard clinical definition. GPP flares are painful; severe cases may require emergency treatment and can lead to life-threatening complications such as sepsis. The objective of this study was to characterize the frequency, number, and duration of flares in patients with GPP.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective chart review including patients of all ages with a confirmed diagnosis of GPP after 2011 receiving care at 27 sites in France, Malaysia, and Tunisia.

 Results: Data from 175 patients were included (France: 58.9%, Malaysia: 31.4%, Tunisia: 9.7%). Mean (SD) follow-up was 5.0 (3.1) years. Flare-related care was the second most common reason for patient visits, accounting for 200 of 1378 follow-up visits after GPP diagnosis, surpassed only by routine follow-up. The mean (SD) annual number of flare episodes was 2.3 (2.0); the total number of flare episodes since the initial flare leading to diagnosis ranged from 0 to 9. Eighty-three (47.4%) patients experienced ≥1 flare episode after diagnosis, though individual country data suggested a higher flare burden in Tunisia (70.6%) and Malaysia (54.5%) versus France (39.8%). Twenty-eight patients (16.0%) had ≥2 flare episodes (60 visits); median (min, max) time between episodes was 11.6 (0.1, 52) months. The mean (SD) duration of flares was 34.3 (41.3) days during follow-up. Of 254 hospitalizations, 128 (50.4%) were flare-related inpatient admissions. Overall, 37.5% of GPP flares required inpatient care. The mean (SD) duration of flare-related admissions was almost twice as long as non-flare admissions at 19.2 (23.1) days versus 10.5 (8.1) days. Mean (SD) time between flare-related hospitalizations among 66 patients (128 hospitalizations) was 14.1 (17.1) months, with a median of 9.5 months indicating a skew distribution.

Conclusion: Flare episodes are a heavy burden for patients with GPP, with flares recurring as often as once a year and lasting up to 2 weeks or more. Flares account for >50% of hospitalizations for patients with GPP and are an important cause of follow-up care visits. The frequency of flares varied between patients, with some individuals experiencing up to 10 episodes over the study period. Heterogeneity of flares and rarity of GPP make diagnosis and clinical study challenging, while the severity of acute episodes and the burden of flare reoccurrence demonstrate the need for more effective treatment options.
Real-World Switch Rates for Patients With Psoriasis Initiating Risankizumab Stratified by Body Mass Index
Authors: Wu Jashin , Patel Manish , Photowala Huzefa , Li Chao , Armstrong April
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Psoriasis (PsO) is a chronic, inflammatory skin disorder that affects 1%–4% of adults in the US. While PsO typically affects the skin, it is also associated with other systemic comorbidities, such as psoriatic arthritis, cardiometabolic disease, diabetes, and obesity. Switching therapies is common in patients with PsO due to poor treatment outcomes, such as lack of efficacy or safety/tolerability issues that are notably more pronounced in refractory patients. This study aims to quantify real-world switch rates for patients with PsO treated with risankizumab, stratified by body mass index (BMI) categories.

Methods: The Optum® Market Clarity data, which includes insurance claims linked with electronic medical records data, was used to identify biologic-naïve adult patients who initiated risankizumab between May 1, 2019 and September 30, 2022, with ≥1 PsO diagnosis (ICD codes) on or prior to biologic initiation. Patients had ≥6 months of continuous insurance benefits pre- and ≥12 months post-biologic initiation, and BMI data available on or in the 12 months before the start of risankizumab. Assessed outcomes included switch rates over 12 months among all risankizumab initiators and stratified by BMI category (BMI <25 Kg/m2, 25 to <30 Kg/m2, ≥30 Kg/m2).

Results: A total of 367 patients were included in this analysis. The mean (SD) age of patients was 47.7 (14.3) years, 194 (52.9%) were female, 20 (5.5%) were Black, and 305 (83.1%) were White. Of all patients, 71 (19.4%) had a BMI of <25 Kg/m2, 111 (30.2%) had a BMI of 25 to <30 Kg/m2, and 185 (50.4%) had a BMI ≥30 Kg/m2. The switch rate by 12 months for all patients initiating risankizumab was 3.8%. Switch rates by BMI category were 5.6% (BMI <25 Kg/m2), 2.7% (BMI 25 to <30 Kg/m2), and 3.8% (BMI ≥30 Kg/m2); there were no significant differences in switch rates between BMI categories (P = 0.589 from Fisher's exact test).

Conclusions: In this real-world study, treatment patterns through 12 months among patients initiating risankizumab were consistent regardless of BMI category.
Aesthetic Efficacy of a Novel Topical Combination Brightening Regimen to Treat Facial Hyperpigmentation
Authors: Goberdhan Lisa , Schneider Katie , Bautista Arielle , Makino Elizabeth , Mehta Rahul
Published: November 2023

Purpose: Hyperpigmentation is a multifaceted condition that is often challenging to treat. Due to this complexity, a combination therapy providing a holistic approach of removal and prevention of pigmentation has shown greater efficacy than a monotherapy treatment. A clinical usage study was conducted to assess the cosmetic changes of a combination take-home skincare topical regimen of a novel brightening platform in subjects with mild to severe facial hyperpigmentation.

Procedure: Participants received a take-home multimodal brightening skincare regimen (EC Regimen) that consisted of twice-daily use of EC brightening Pads and EC serum, and once-daily evening use of EC spot cream. Clinical Efficacy and tolerability assessments, and participant self-assessments of facial skin appearance were conducted.

Results: Nineteen participants aged 31-69 years, with Fitzpatrick Skin Types I-IV, who self-identified their ethnicity as Asian, White, American Indian, and Hispanic, were included in the study. The EC Regimen provided statistically significant improvements as early as week 1 in Dark Spot Severity and Dark Spot Contrast grades with continued significant improvements through week 12 versus baseline (p<0.01). There were significant improvements in Overall Hyperpigmentation and the validated Modified Melasma Area and Severity Index scores as early as week 2 with continued significant improvements through week 12 versus baseline (p<0.03). Additionally, improvements in a variety of photoaging concerns such as Overall Photodamage, Tactile Roughness, Skin Tone Evenness, Fine and Coarse Lines/Wrinkles and Radiance were observed at all time points.

The EC Regimen was highly rated by participants with an overall satisfaction of 94% by week 12. At week 12, participants stated that EC Regimen “faded the dark spots that I have had for more than 5 years” (89%), “helped prevent new dark spots” (94%), and “improved my most stubborn spots that bother me the most” (89%). At week 12, EC Regimen improved quality-of-life parameters and participants stated that EC Regimen “makes me feel happier with how I look” (83%) and “makes me more confident” (83%). EC Regimen was well-tolerated as tolerability assessments remained mild for the duration of the study.

Conclusions: Combination therapy of EC Regimen provides a well-tolerated, effective treatment for multiple hyperpigmentation and photoaging parameters with high patient satisfaction.
Comparing efficiency of compressed air foam and AFFF low expansion foam
Authors:   LLC “Pozhneftekhim”, Poteryaev Yuriy K. , Mironchev Aleksey V. ,   Saint-Petersburg University of State Fire Service of EMERCOM of Russia, Oschepkov Andrey M. ,   LLC “CitySoft”
Published: November 2023

PURPOSE. In 2020 information on the possibility of using compressed air foam – a new fire extinguishing agent for extinguishing class B fires – was introduced into the regulatory field of the Russian Federation in the sphere of fire safety. The purpose of the article is to compare fire-fighting efficiency of compressed air foam and low expansion air-mechanical foam based on film-forming foam agents. Reliability coefficient that levels out confluence of factors worsening conditions for extinguishing a fire at a real object relative to a model fire was formulated. METHODS. The research methods lie in comparing the current regulations for designing automatic foam firefighting installations and standardized methods for testing them. FINDINGS. Test procedures differ, but in all respects the requirements for low expansion foam are more stringent. Compressed air foam has a 14 % lower fire extinguishing efficiency, and reduced standard intensity of its supply is explained by an almost 3–6 times lower reliability coefficient. RESEARCH APPLICATION FIELD. The obtained results can be used to justify foam type when designing automatic fixed foam firefighting installations. CONCLUSIONS. GOST 34714–2021, introduced in 2023, does not contain methods for determining fire extinguishing efficiency of compressed air foam and requires improvement. Reducing reliability coefficient of compressed air foam significantly increases the risk of foam fire extinguishing installations failure when using such foam at industrial facilities.
Model of a small fire department activity in Thanh Hoa province of Vietnam
Authors:   State Fire Academy of EMERCOM of Russia, Fogilev Ivan S. , Prisyazhnyuk Nikolay L. ,   State Fire Academy of EMERCOM of Russia, Chan Chung Duc ,   State Fire Academy of EMERCOM of Russia
Published: November 2023

PURPOSE. The article presents the situation with fires in Thanh Hoa Province (Vietnam), analyzes statistical data on death and injury of people in case of fires on the territories of the province counties and districts. Based on statistical data, a growing trend in death rates in counties (rural settlements) has been identified. Using statistical and mathematical analysis, an increase in death rates from exposure to hazardous factors during fires on the territories of counties in Thanh Hoa Province has been shown. The organizational structure of the fire service in Thanh Hoa Province has been studied. The activities of small fire departments and their role in ensuring fire safety of the province's territories have been considered. A model of the activities of small fire departments of the Ministry of Public Security of Thanh Hoa Province has been developed, both when responding to fires and in daily service as part of duty shifts. The conclusion provides a description of problematic issues and ways to solve them. METHODS. The main research methods are analysis and comparison of information obtained through the interaction of specialists from the Ministry of EMERCOM of Russia with employees of the Ministry of Public Security of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. FINDINGS. The authors of the article confirm the relevance of the ongoing research related to the issues of death in fires in rural settlements of Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam. Directions for further research into the activities of small provincial fire departments in cooperation with fire and rescue services of Vietnam have been identified. Based on the data obtained on the organization of fire department activities in Thanh Hoa Province, the database on the activities of fire and rescue services of different countries will be expanded. The study of current issues of fire safety, the exchange of scientific developments in the field of fire safety will provide new relevant and useful information for improving the fire safety system of our country. RESEARCH APPLICATION FIELD. The results obtained are recommended for implementation in the educational process of academic and scientific institutions of the Ministry of EMERCOM of Russia, as well as in practical activities of the Fire Service of Vietnam. CONCLUSIONS. The authors of the article show the need to conduct scientific research on the problematic issues of fire death in the counties of Thanh Hoa Province, associated with an increase in the number of victims in recent years. Conducted research into the activities of small fire departments protecting rural settlements of the province is aimed at solving the issues of rescuing people in case of fires.