bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation challenges of artificial intelligence (AI) in primary care: Perspectives of general practitioners in London UK
Authors: Razai Mohammad S. , Al-bedaery Roaa , Bowen Liza , Yahia Reem , Chandrasekaran Lakshmi , Oakeshott Pippa
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Implementing artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, particularly in primary care settings, raises crucial questions about practical challenges and opportunities. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of general practitioners (GPs) on the impact of AI in primary care.

Methods

A convenience sampling method was employed, involving a hybrid workshop with 12 GPs and 4 GP registrars. Verbal consent was obtained, and the workshop was audio recorded. Thematic analysis was conducted on the recorded data and contemporaneous notes to identify key themes.

Results

The workshop took place in 2023 and included 16 GPs aged 30 to 72 of diverse backgrounds and expertise. Most (93%) were female, and five (31%) self-identified as ethnic minorities. Thematic analysis identified two key themes related to AI in primary care: the potential benefits (such as help with diagnosis and risk assessment) and the associated concerns and challenges. Sub-themes included anxieties about diagnostic accuracy, AI errors, industry influence, and overcoming integration resistance. GPs also worried about increased workload, particularly extra, unnecessary patient tests, the lack of evidence base for AI programmes or accountability of AI systems and appropriateness of AI algorithms for different population groups. Participants emphasised the importance of transparency, trust-building, and research rigour to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of AI systems in healthcare.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that GPs recognise the potential of AI in primary care but raise important concerns regarding evidence base, accountability, bias and workload. The participants emphasised the need for rigorous evaluation of AI technologies. Further research and collaboration between healthcare professionals, policymakers, and technology organisations are essential to navigating these challenges and harnessing the full potential of AI.
Assessing the exploitation status of Johnius belangerii in Zhanjiang Bay
Authors: Deng Siman , Liao Dongrong , Lin Kun , Lyu Shaoliang , Chen Ning , Wang Xuefeng
Published: November 2024

Fishery stock assessment is the basis of fishery management. This study explored the applicability of the Length-Based Spawning Potential Ratio method (LBSPR) to assess the exploitation status of data-limited fisheries. Using data from bottom trawl surveys in Zhanjiang Bay, the study estimated the relative fishing mortality (F/M) of Johnius belangerii stock. The results showed that the average lengths at 50% and 95% selectivity (LS50 and LS95) were 105 mm and 145 mm, respectively, both of which are smaller than the lengths at 50% and 95% sexual maturity length (L50 = 125 mm and L95 = 167 mm) determined via the logistic curve. The estimated spawning potential ratio (SPR) was 0.15 significantly below the reference threshold of 0.2. The study recommended the establishment of a minimum size range (137 to 150 mm) length for harvesting Johnius belangerii to enhance their reproductive potential. It also emphasized the importance of scientific monitoring of fishery resources and the ecological environment in Zhanjiang Bay to ensure sustainable management.
A Pragmatic Management Approach for Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatosis and Steatohepatitis
Authors: Shah Neha , Sanyal Arun J.
Published: November 2024

Obesity and associated insulin resistance induce a chronic metaboinflammatory state that lead to injury and dysfunction of multiple organs resulting in a cluster of noncommunicable diseases such as type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a histologically active form of MASLD and characterized by greater injury and inflammation and progresses to cirrhosis with greater certainty than steatosis alone. The progression to cirrhosis is characterized by increasing fibrosis. The goal of treatment of MASLD/MASH was to improve the metaboinflammatory state i.e., the root cause of the liver disease and to prevent fibrosis progression to cirrhosis whereas in those who already have cirrhosis need additional care to prevent portal hypertension-related outcomes. Fibrosis regression is thus a key objective of treatment. The recent approval of resmetirom for MASH with fibrosis and the use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists for obesity and type 2 diabetes has increased awareness of these NCDs and resulted in the growing demand for liver assessment and care in obese individuals. Patients with MASLD also have multiple metabolic comorbidities which represent competing threats to life, and the care of the patient requires both assessment of the totality of the risk and a more holistic approach integrating the care of all of the threats to life. Here, we provide a pragmatic and easily implementable risk-based approach to the evaluation and management of MASLD.
Gaga for MAGA: Nineties Nostalgia and Gay Reactionary Populism
Authors: Petronio Francesca
Published: November 2024

This article explores nostalgia for the not-so-queer nineties, or rather, what Amin Ghaziani called the “post-gay” nineties. Inspired by Rosalind Gill's “postfeminism as a sensibility,” I coin “post-gay as a sensibility” as I explore the affective dimensions of post-gay culture. As an example of post-gay politics, I dive into a critical study of Walk Away, a coming-out-as-conservative social movement. Sparked by a video testimonial and the hashtag #WalkAway, the movement documents the exodus of ex-Democrats who now ride the Trump train, with the goal of attracting liberals, and especially minorities, to the GOP. Assembling a bricolage of methodologies, I blend a discursive analysis of #WalkAway's online content and participant observation of the Walk Away LGBT town hall, as I explore how conservative influencers construct nostalgia for the nineties as a site of longing for a time before marriage equality, when there was a normative push to devote all movement energy toward political legibility and respectability. I focus on two elements of this constructed nostalgia: reliance on the political power of the coming-out ritual, and the supremacy of biological determinism over social constructivism.
Features of eyelid microcirculation in chronic mixed blepharitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Safonova T. N. , Zaitseva G. V. , Kintyukhina N. P. , Timoshenkova E. I.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: Microcirculatory dysfunction in patients with diabetes mellitus leads to tissue trophic insufficiency, reduction of adaptation reserves. It is possible to perform lifetime assessment of structural and functional changes in the microcirculation system by laser Doppler flowmetry. The presence of microcirculatory disorders is established in eyelids in chronic blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction. The article presents the results of the study concerning the peculiarities of neoangiogenesis as a mechanism of development of chronic blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction in diabetes mellitus (DM).

AIM: to reveal the peculiarities of microcirculatory disorders of the eyelid in chronic mixed blepharitis in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study was conducted in 57 patients: 37 patients with chronic mixed bilateral blepharitis and a verified diagnosis of T2DM (group 1, n=74 eyes, average age 69.5 ± 7.5 years; subgroup 1a, n=38 eyes — patients with T2DM and glycated hemoglobin average level (HbA1с) 6.7±1.2; subgroup 1b, n=36 eyes — patients with T2DM and HbA1с average level 8.2±1.3) and 20 patients with chronic mixed bilateral blepharitis without signs of DM (group 2, n=40 eyes, mean age 67.2±4.3 years). Laser Doppler flowmetry was performed on the device «LAZMA MC-1».

RESULTS: In patients with chronic blepharitis against the background of T2DM the development of ischemia of the eyelid tissue with increasing tension of functioning of the regulatory systems of microcirculation blood flow and lymph flow was detected, and in persons without DM — venous stasis with moderate inhibition of vasomotor, respiratory and dominance of cardiac oscillations of blood flow, as well as insufficiency of neurogenic oscillations of lymph flow. In this case in 1a subgroup the dominance of neurogenic oscillations of blood flow was revealed, in 1b - myogenic. Microcirculatory changes of lymph flow in the 1b subgroup were more pronounced in comparison with the 1a subgroup.

CONCLUSION: The results proves the negative influence of T2DM on the microcirculatory bed of patients with chronic mixed blepharitis. The disorders detected by laser Doppler flowmetry vary depending on the HbA1с.
The introduction of new technologies for insulin therapy and glycemic control in clinical practice in the period 2016-2023, and their impact on achieving treatment targets in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Laptev D. N. , Knyazeva T. T. , Bezlepkina O. B.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) improve daily life for people with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus dramatically (T1D). However, there are still no compelling evidences that the use of insulin pumps (IP) and continuous glucose monitors (CGM) really help to improve diabetes control in children and adolescents.

AIM: to analyze the relation between diabetes control and the use of insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors in children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: 6382 children with T1D aged 1–18 years were enrolled in this study. Frequency of CSII and CGM use, HbA1с level and the percentage of children with HbA1с< 7.0% were analyzed.

RESULTS: HbA1c decreased from 8.6% to 7.7% for 7 years (p<0.001). Simultaneously the quantity of children with HbA1c<7.0% increased from 11% to 29%. During this period the use of CGM increases dramatically from 11.6% to 84%. The use of IP increases from 38.7% to 42.3% (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION: CSII and continuous glucose monitors use statistically significant improves T1D control in children according to mean HbA1c level decrease and the quantity of children with target HbA1c level increase.
Adaptation of The Diabetes Distress Scale on a Russian-speaking sample of patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Likhodey N. V. , Epishin V. E. , Kalashnikova M. F. , Kaurova A. M. , Tulupova M. V. , Sych Y. P. , Bondareva I. B.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: Diabetes distress (DD) is the negative emotional or affective experience resulting from living with diabetes. DD is a negative predictor of blood glucose control and quality of life, and may lead to decreased adherence to treatment. To diagnose DD, questionnaires are used to screen the emotional state and psychosocial aspects. In the study, linguistic, cultural adaptation and assessment of the psychometric properties of the Russian version of the questionnaire “The Diabetes Distress Scale” were conducted among patients suffering from T1DM and T2DM.

Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) have diabetic distress as one of the most common mental disorders along with depression. Depression and diabetic distress increase the risk of death in diabetes, negatively affect treatment adherence and self-monitoring of glycemia. Identification of these conditions among patients with T1DM and T2DM can contribute to their timely correction.

AIM: To carry out linguistic and cultural adaptation of the questionnaire “The Diabetes Distress Scale” and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Russian version of the DDS questionnaire on a Russian-speaking sample of patients with T1DM and T2DM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A study was conducted on a sample of 198 patients with T1DM and T2DM; data was collected on the use of the Russian version was collected DDS scales, as well as the EQ-5D-5L (European Quality of Life Questionnaire), SPANE (Positive and Negative Experiences Scale) and HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale) scales. The last three scales were used to assess the convergent validity of the adapted questionnaire. Reliability of the DDS questionnaire was assessed using Cronbach’s α coefficient of internal consistency and participant retest after 1–4 months.

RESULTS: The factor structure of The Diabetes Distress Scale questionnaire is fully reproduced when all 17 questions are included (measurement model fit indicators: CFI=0.981, RMSEA=0.055, TLI=0.967). The internal consistency of the subscales (α ϵ [0.836; 0.874]) and the questionnaire as a whole (α=0.948) is assessed as high. Significant correlations of the adapted methodology and its subscales with the scales of the EQ-5D-5L, SPANE, HADS questionnaires were obtained, the closest connections (Rho ϵ [0.370; 0.437], p<0.01), which indicates good external validity of the adapted methodology.

CONCLUSION: The Russian version of the DDS questionnaire has good psychometric properties. It is a valid and reliable tool for assessing diabetes distress among patients with T1DM and T2DM and can be recommended for use in clinical practice for timely diagnosing depression and DD.
Retrospective Analysis of the Characteristics of the Post-COVID Period in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes, Infected During Different Variant-Associated Periods of COVID-19
Authors: Altynbekova S. A. , Fadeev V. V. , Abilayuly Z. , Bolshakova S. V.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: Since the emergence of coronavirus infection in clinical practice, particular attention has been paid to its acute phase. However, to date, the direct and indirect impact on patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus after recovery from coronavirus infection remains an open question.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the clinical and laboratory features of the post-COVID period in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus during different phases of the infection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A descriptive retrospective study was conducted using the electronic medical records of 134 patients who had recovered from coronavirus infection.

RESULTS: The majority of the patients were women, with no significant differences in age and gender distribution across the groups (p=0.384 and p=0.207, respectively). During the «Omicron» period, there were fewer comorbidities and fewer hospitalized patients compared to the other groups (p<0.0167). Regarding diabetes-related conditions, frequent urination was observed only in patients during the «Alpha» period, while the frequency of hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, the severity of chronic kidney disease, and manifestations of polyneuropathy did not differ significantly between the groups (p>0.0167). When examining newly diagnosed diseases, a statistically significant difference was found only in musculoskeletal disorders (16.7% in «Alpha» vs. 30.2% in «Delta» vs. 3.7% in «Omicron», p=0.015). In the analysis of laboratory indicators, a difference was detected in platelet counts and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT): median platelet counts were significantly lower in the «Alpha» and «Delta» groups compared to the «Omicron» group (210 [179.2–249.7] x10⁹/L and 218 [196.5–281] x10⁹/L vs. 255 [208–327] x10⁹/L, respectively, p=0.016). The APTT was significantly longer for «Alpha» and «Delta» compared to «Omicron» (28 [23.6–31.3] seconds vs. 30.3 [26.1–34.9] seconds vs. 27.1 [22.4–30.3] seconds, respectively, p=0.013).

CONCLUSION: Real-world data allow tracking the development of new symptoms and diseases in patients during the post-COVID period. Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus during the «Omicron» variant-associated period had a lower risk of developing new symptoms and diseases. It is necessary to implement solutions for monitoring target HbA1c levels through medical information systems and to enhance reporting standards for patient symptoms to enable more accurate analysis Real world data (RWD).
Bases para un derecho ambiental del siglo XXII: presupuestos fácticos, conceptuales, constitucionales y metodológicos. El principio de globalidad
Authors: León Jiménez Fernando
Published: November 2024

La situación actual del medio ambiente no admite respuestas vagas ni demoras. Sin embargo, y a pesar de la buena voluntad de no pocos agentes políticos y sociales, éstas suelen venir lastradas de errores fácticos, conceptuales o metodológicos de partida, que derivan en inoperancias, el empeoramiento de la situación y valiosas pérdidas presupuestarias. Y el tiempo juega en contra, haciendo que cada paso en falso agrave el problema por acción o desacierto. En este contexto, el propósito de esta obra es ser la primera de una serie de monografías que clarifique los principales componentes del que debe ser un Derecho Ambiental eficaz en su respuesta a los retos actuales. Se inicia esta serie tratando de clarificar la situación, y para ello se estableciendo el contenido necesario del marco de referencia elemental. Así, primero se establece cuál es la realidad del medio ambiente, el significado real de los conceptos implicados en el debate y el marco constitucional, legal y político de referencia obligada. Seguidamente, se expone el que entendemos como punto de partida elemental, esto es, el contenido del principio de globalidad, que supera por su raíz científica los mitos e ideas extravagantes, falsamente románticas o directamente equivocadas relativas al problema ambiental actual, siendo este el primer principio a tratar en la serie, y que precisamente debe ser el punto de partida de cualquier otro enfoque. El realismo natural es el primer ecologismo y, por ello mismo, debe ser tratado al principio. La metodología de exposición trata de sr clara y amena, sin faltar al rigor científico y a la necesaria referencia a las fuentes. Se termina con la exposición de la bibliografía y fuentes consultadas para que el lector pueda ampliar en ellos su conocimiento. nos hemos centrados en las fuentes más clásicas y de común aceptación para contribuir al establecimiento fiable de los contenidos que se pretende fijar.
The Role Of Artificial Intelligence In Enhancing Business Innovation And Creativity In The Cosmetics Industry Of Dubai
Authors: Ullah Khalil , Hardjono Retno Kusumastuti
Published: November 2024

The role that artificial intelligence can play in enhancing business innovation and creativity in the cosmetic industry in Dubai is considered. Amongst many key factual problems faced by this industry, there is personalization, supply chain optimization, formulation of products, marketing, and branding—issues that remain ethical and private. The conceptual problems addressed are related to the balance between creativity and automation, data quality, and bias, interdisciplinary collaboration, and change management.It aims to understand how AI-powered solutions can contribute to addressing these challenges and serve as a driver of innovation in the cosmetics sector of Dubai. This paper considers previous related literature about AI applications in multiple business functions and some conceptual framework that links AI to creativity and innovation. In this regard, a mixed-method approach will utilize questionnaires, interviews, and case studies to analyze the interlinkages between AI adoption, AI capabilities, data-driven decision making, and cognitive augmentation as they influence firm innovation and creativity.The research is likely to be of benefit to Dubai Cosmetics Firms with critical insights; at the same time, it will complement existing literature on how emerging technologies can help instill innovation in business activity.
Application of leaf multispectral analyzer in comparison to hyperspectral device to assess the diversity of spectral reflectance indices in wheat genotypes
Authors: Filacek Andrej , Zivcak Marek , Barboricova Maria , Kovar Marek , Halabuk Andrej , Gerhatova Katarina , Yang Xinghong , Hauptvogel Pavol , Brestic Marian
Published: November 2024

Multispectral devices have a huge potential to be utilized in biological, ecological, and agricultural studies, providing valuable information on plant structure and chemical composition. The aim of the study was to assess the reliability and sensitivity of the affordable leaf spectrometer PolyPen (PP) in comparison with the highly sensitive analytical device FieldSpec-4. Measurements at the leaf level were realized on a collection of 24 diverse field-grown wheat (Triticum sp. L.) genotypes in several growth phases during the regular growing season, focusing on whole spectral curves and a set of 41 spectral reflectance indices. As expected, the sensitive analytical device showed a higher capacity to capture genotypic variability and the ability to distinguish seasonal changes compared to a low-cost multispectral device. Nevertheless, the analysis of the data provided by low-cost sensors provided a group of parameters with good sensitivity, including reasonable correlations between the records of the two devices (r > 0.80). Based on the large obtained datasets, we can conclude that the application of a low-cost PP leaf spectrometer in plant and crop studies can be efficient, but the selection of parameters is crucial. Thus, the present study provides valuable information for users of affordable leaf spectrometers in fundamental and applied plant science.
Lights and Shadows of the Tez Tour Decision: A Step Forward in Consumer/Traveller Protection Amid New Uncertainties
Authors: Cioni Andrea
Published: November 2024

The decision of the European Court of Justice in M D v Tez Tour UAB addresses four different questions and provides further insight into the concept of ‘unavoidable and extraordinary circumstances’ under Article 12(2) of Directive (EU) 2015/2302. This judgment certainly strengthens the protection of consumer travellers by extending the scope of the provision. However, as this contribution highlights, the decision also introduces several elements of uncertainty that are likely to cascade into domestic litigation and generate lively debate among academics. The most critical issue is undoubtedly the relationship between the average and the vulnerable consumer/traveller.
EU Digital Private Law: Tattering or New Beginning?
Authors: Domurath Irina , Micklitz Hans-W.
Published: November 2024

This article analyses the impact of the digital acquis on the regulation of market relations governed by private law. The hypothesis is that a new EU digital private law is emerging that deconstructs the existing EU private law acquis and paves the way for an emergent constitutional order of digital private law, which has three distinct levels. The three levels of the EU digital order broaden the scope of digital private law to ever more addressees and establish distinct modes of private law and models of justice. While on the constitutional level, no particular mode of private law is established, at the levels of market ordering and horizontal transactions respectively we find contracts and advertisements on the one hand and contract law on the other as the specific modes of private law. There are also differences with regard to the model of justice they establish, reaching from access justice and non-discrimination to freedom from manipulation and substantive fairness. As a result of this three-levelled analysis, it becomes possible to identify breakdowns and extensions of concepts, as well as the emergence of and interactions between different modes of private law governance and justice.
RGB-to-hyperspectral conversion for accessible melanoma detection: A CNN-based approach
Authors: Bsharat Sondos Mahmoud , Abouelnour Sana , Ahmed Ragad , Elkhatib Mariam , Gaber Sama , Shehieb Wessam , Arshad Kamran , Assaleh Khaled
Published: November 2024

One major difficulty facing the healthcare industry is the early and precise detection of melanoma. With its capacity to record a broad spectrum of electromagnetic wavelengths, hyperspectral imaging (HSI) is a promising technique for accurate melanoma diagnosis. However, the limited accessibility of HSI technology prevents it from being widely used. This article introduces a novel method for converting readily available red green blue (RGB) images to their hyperspectral counterparts using convolutional neural networks (CNNs). Through this conversion process, spectral information is improved, enabling a more thorough examination to detect melanoma. Principal component analysis (PCA) aids the machine learning algorithm in differentiating between melanoma and healthy moles in the classification model. Accuracy is significantly increased when spot detection and PCA are combined; Naïve Bayes achieves 76% accuracy in this way. These models are used in the developed web-based program SkinScan for real-time melanoma analysis, providing a useful and accessible solution. This work emphasizes how CNN-driven RGB-to-HSI conversion might improve melanoma detection accuracy and accessibility.
Partial purification and characterization of Echinococcusgranulosus antigen 5, extracted from hydatid cyst: Radiolabeling study with Iodine 125
Authors: Hadj Rabia Samia , Zaouani Mohamed , Boudjellaba Sofiane , Zahnit Wafa , Grib Hocine , Raache Rachida , Zeghir-Bouteldja Razika , Alouache Mounia , Brahimi Abdelkarim , Messaoudi Mohammed
Published: November 2024

Cystic echinococcosis is a parasitic disease caused by the development of the larval form (hydatid cyst) of Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l) in humans and herbivores. In this study, antigen 5 (Ag 5), recognized as the major and most immunogenic fraction of E. granulosus (s.l), was partially purified using ammonium sulfate precipitation at 70 % saturation and characterized by physicochemical and immunological methods. Analysis of the supernatant resulting from the precipitation showed typical mobility for antigen 5. The antigen produced a single precipitation arc when tested against a pool of sera from patients and rabbits immunized with this antigen. A band of approximately 66 kDa was observed through SDS-PAGE under denaturing conditions. Radiolabeling of the antigen with iodine-125 (I125) achieved a yield of 63 % with a radiochemical purity of 92.6 %. In evaluating antigenic integrity, a tolerable non-specific binding of 16 % was observed, alongside satisfactory specific binding of 60 % when tested with rabbit anti-fraction 5 serum. These preliminary results are promising and will be further refined to determine optimal conditions for preparing a high-quality tracer, which could be valuable in the diagnosis of hydatid disease.
Numerical analysis of brush seal hysteresis based on orthogonal test method
Authors: Xiao Furen , Kang Yuchi , Wang Yuanlun , Kao-Walter Sharon
Published: November 2024

By the finite element analysis software ABAQUS, utilizing General Contact and Contact damping algorithm, the brush seal hysteresis numerical model with pressure differential considered was established. The hysteresis was quantified by the hysteresis energy, and the hysteresis energy and maximum stress are obtained by numerical calculations. An orthogonal test was conducted to study the effects of bristle diameter, bristle cant angle, fence height, bristle length, upstream and downstream differential pressure, and rotor radial displacement on the hysteresis and maximum stress of the brush seal. Results show that the primary and secondary orders of parameters affecting hysteresis are: rotor radial displacement, bristle diameter, upstream and down-stream differential pressure, bristle cant angle, bristle length, and fence height. The primary and secondary orders of parameters affecting maximum stress are: upstream and downstream differential pressure, fence height, bristle cant angle, bristle diameter, bristle length, and rotor radial displacement. Finally, based on the numerical results, a fitted correlation was developed. Comprehensive effects of the six parameters on both performances were analyzed, and structural design optimization methods focusing on single performance and comprehensive performance were proposed, providing references for the design of brush seals in practical engineering applications.
Stoische Doxographie in der Ethik des Clemens von Alexandrien
Authors: Kirsch-Klingelhöffer Charlotte
Published: November 2024

Clement of Alexandria provides extensive material on Greek philosophy in his Paedagogos and his Stromata. As it was part of contemporary philosophical debate, both works include so called doxographies listing the opinions (doxai) of philosophers about certain topics. In this article, I will show how Clement takes up ethical doxographies concerning the Stoic definition of the καθῆκον (“duty”) in Paedagogos 1,13,101 and the τέλος (the “highest end”) in Stromata 2,19,100–101 and 2,21,129. Comparing them to other doxographical sources (Diogenes Laertius, Arius Didymus), it becomes obvious, that Clement gradually transforms and restructures these philosophical doxai to lead his readers to a Christian understanding of ethics.
Slow Oscillation–Spindle Coupling Predicts Sequence-Based Language Learning
Authors: Cross Zachariah R. , Helfrich Randolph F. , Corcoran Andrew W. , Dede Adam J. O. , Kohler Mark J. , Coussens Scott W. , Zou-Williams Lena , Schlesewsky Matthias , Gaskell Gareth M. , Knight Robert T. , Bornkessel-Schlesewsky Ina
Published: November 2024

Sentence comprehension involves the decoding of both semantic and grammatical information, a process fundamental to communication. As with other complex cognitive processes, language comprehension relies, in part, on long-term memory. However, the electrophysiological mechanisms underpinning the encoding and generalization of higher-order linguistic knowledge remain elusive, particularly from a sleep-based consolidation perspective. One candidate mechanism that may support the consolidation of higher-order language is the coordination of slow oscillations (SO) and sleep spindles during nonrapid eye movement sleep (NREM). To examine this hypothesis, we analyzed electroencephalographic (EEG) data recorded from 35 participants (Mage = 25.4; SD = 7.10; 16 males) during an artificial language learning task, contrasting performance between individuals who were given an 8 h nocturnal sleep period or an equivalent period of wake. We found that sleep relative to wake was associated with superior performance for sequence-based word order rules. Postsleep sequence-based word order processing was further associated with less task-related theta desynchronization, an electrophysiological signature of successful memory consolidation, as well as cognitive control and working memory. Frontal NREM SO–spindle coupling was also positively associated with behavioral sensitivity to sequence-based word order rules, as well as with task-related theta power. As such, theta activity during retrieval of previously learned information correlates with SO–spindle coupling, thus linking neural activity in the sleeping and waking brain. Taken together, this study presents converging behavioral and neurophysiological evidence for a role of NREM SO–spindle coupling and task-related theta activity as signatures of memory consolidation and retrieval in the context of higher-order language learning.
Chemical Analysis of Femtosecond Laser Irradiated Enamel
Authors: Özüdoğru Semanur , Kahvecioğlu Firdevs , Tosun Gül
Published: November 2024

Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the chemical alterations in enamel after femtosecond laser irradiation.
Material and Methods: Fifteen molars were used in the experiment, with 3x3 mm² areas prepared on the buccal surfaces of each tooth. These areas were irradiated using a Ti laser system (800 nm, 90 fs, 1-3 kHz) for 15 seconds. To assess the chemical composition of the samples before and after laser treatment, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) was employed. This analysis measured the mean weight percentage (wt%) of minerals including calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), carbon (C), aluminum (Al), oxygen (O), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), and sodium (Na).
Results: The mean wt% of all tested minerals were changed. While the change in O, P, Al ions was found to be significant (p < 0.05), the change in Ca, Mg, Na, C was found to be insignificant (p > 0.05).
Conclusion: Our results indicate that femtosecond laser irradiation influences the mineral composition of the enamel.
Keywords: Femtosecond laser, Mineral content, Enamel
Surgical Management of Incidental Intercostal Nerve Schwannoma
Authors: El Hajjouli Hiba , Elaamadi Wafae , Taoufik Rachid , Achir Abdellah , Bouchikh Mohamed
Published: November 2024

Schwannomas, also known as neurilemmomas or neurinomas, are benign nerve sheath tumors, representing approximately 5% of benign soft-tissue neoplasms. Thus, intercostal nerve Schwannoma is a rare entity, and biopsy-excision is usually used to establish the diagnosis. Herein, we report a clinical case of a 18 years-old male with a large chest wall mass fortuitously found on a chest X-ray that was performed as part of an employment evaluation. Therefore, the patient was eligible for excisional and diagnostic surgery.
Pharmacological management of Alzheimer’s disease: a current view
Authors: Grilo Júlia da Silva , Borges Isabelle Campos Leite Domingues , Fahd Julia Chaves , Betez Gabriel Dalves Lauretti , Santos Gustavo Alves Andrade dos
Published: November 2024

Alzheimer's disease is a chronic, multifactorial, and irreversible condition characterized by atrophy beginning in the entorhinal cortex and hippocampus, followed by the cerebral cortex. Clinically, the patient experiences a gradual cognitive decline, losing language, reasoning, and social behavior skills. Treatment involves acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (Donepezil, Galantamine, and Rivastigmine) or NMDA receptor antagonists (Memantine). The study described the pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic aspects of the main drugs, analyzing absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, adverse reactions, and drug interactions from articles in the BVS, Scielo, and Pubmed databases. Pharmacokinetic results show that Memantine is absorbed in 9-12 hours, with a half-life of 60-80 hours; Rivastigmine has rapid absorption, crossing the blood-brain barrier; Galantamine is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and metabolized in the liver. Donepezil has high bioavailability, a 70-hour half-life, and is metabolized in the liver. All are excreted by the kidneys. Regarding drug interactions, Donepezil increases the risk of seizures when combined with Tramadol or Bupropion; Galantamine is inhibited by drugs like Ketoconazole, increasing side effects; Memantine interacts with Acetazolamide and other drugs, increasing the risk of neuropsychiatric effects; Rivastigmine can cause bradycardia when combined with beta-blockers and enhances the effects of muscle relaxants. Adverse reactions include dizziness and diarrhea (Memantine), nausea (Rivastigmine), bradycardia (Galantamine), and weight loss (Donepezil). In conclusion, Alzheimer's treatment, while not curative, improves the patient's quality of life and slows the decline in social and cognitive abilities.
Dynamics of structured geomedia: theory, models, experiment
Authors:   Subbotin Institute of Geophysics, NASU, Ukraine, Kyiv, Mykulyak S.V.
Published: November 2024

The monograph is devoted to studying the dynamics of structured media taking into account their discrete and hierarchical structures. The geomedia in question include a wide class of naturally occurring discrete rock massifs, from granular rock massifs like sand to highly heterogeneous and fragmented areas such as seismically active zones. Research is carried out within the framework of the approach in which the geomedium is interpreted as a complex discrete system with a hierarchical structure and nonlinear and dissipative interaction between structural elements. Discrete models are used to study the dynamics of structured media since continuous models can’t reproduce the full variety of dynamic behavior of such media. In addition, for a hierarchical medium, it is impossible to perform averaging when moving to a continuous description due to the lack of a small parameter. Models are proposed that account for the hierarchical structure of media, particularly, the model of nested oscillators and the block model of earthquakes, which reproduces all the main empirical properties of seismic processes. The processes of propagation of nonlinear waves in discrete media and the formation of wave structures in them are considered in detail. Experiments with dynamic deformation of granular massifs are presented in which the nature of intergranular interaction and their deformation properties are investigated. Numerical modeling of such dynamic deformation confirms the experimental results regarding the existence of correlations of intergranular interaction forces, and the calculated time dependences of the coordination number, orientational order parameter, correlation radius, and distribution of intergranular forces demonstrate the non-equilibrium nature of the process of dynamic deformation of the granular medium. Considerable attention in the monograph is devoted to the study of shear deformation of the granular medium. Experiments and numerous simulations prove a statistical similarity in the shear deformation of granular media and natural seismic processes. Therefore the study of shear deformation of granular media provides a better understanding of the occurrence and properties of earthquakes. The book is aimed at students, post-graduate students, teachers of higher scientific institutions, and researchers whose scientific interests cover areas such as geophysics and the physics of complex systems.
Proteção das águas e desenvolvimento em debate no sul do Brasil
Authors: Pereira Elenita Malta , Ribeiro Claudia
Published: November 2024

Na transição entre as décadas de 1970 e 1980, época marcada pelo ressurgimento de movimentos coletivos no Brasil, as populações de várias cidades sulinas situadas às margens do complexo lagunar Guaíba-Lagoa dos Patos encontraram caminhos para manifestar e fazer valer a sua preocupação a respeito do potencial poluidor de um grande complexo industrial, em ações verificadas desde os seus primeiros anúncios públicos. Pesquisa interdisciplinar mais abrangente torna possível este artigo, o qual recupera a primeira fase da história ambiental de ação de desenvolvimento efetivada no Rio Grande do Sul, a partir de entrevistas, consulta de arquivos públicos e privados e trabalho de campo: o III Polo Petroquímico. No âmbito do II Plano Nacional de Desenvolvimento, vigente durante a ditadura civil-militar, delineiam-se as grandes linhas do entrechoque público que o empreendimento causou, buscando compreender como aconteceu o debate e embate de ideias na condução desse projeto, antecessor de conjunto de plantas químicas operando ininterruptamente desde 1982 nos municípios de Triunfo e Montenegro. Defende-se que, em tempos e espaços ainda rarefeitos de normatizações ambientais, as ações e discursos de ambientalistas, políticos, técnicos e população em geral conseguiram proteger com mais rigor as águas necessárias, dentre outros usos, ao abastecimento da população de Porto Alegre. Mostra-se como dessas lutas resultam marcos pragmáticos nas medidas de proteção ambiental nacional: o pioneiro estudo de impacto ambiental e o enfim resultante modo de tratamento dos efluentes líquidos do complexo.
Effect of carvedilol rapid up-titration on malondialdehyde levels in patient with heart failure reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Abiseka Panji Baskoro  , Habibie Arifianto  , Trisulo Wasyanto  , Heru Sulastomo  , Ahmad Yasa  , Niniek Purwaningtyas
Published: November 2024

Background: Malondialdehyde (MDA) is a marker that can assess the level of oxidative stress. Studies support that this marker can reflect the severity of heart failure. Carvedilol is a third-generation beta-blocker with antioxidant effects. Slow titration may contribute to the suboptimal dose use and therapeutic effect due to improved left ventricular systolic function and reduced dose-dependent mortality.
Aim: To determine the effect of rapid titration of carvedilol compared with standard titration according to standard guidelines on MDA levels in HFrEF (heart failure reduced ejection fraction) patients.
Methods: This study is a single-centre experimental study with a randomized, double-blind control trial conducted from October to December 2021. A total of 26 HFrEF patients undergoing treatment at UNS Hospital Sukoharjo were sequentially included in the study and then randomly divided into the rapid titration group carvedilol given an initial dose of 2 x 3.125 mg and increased every day with a target dose of 2 x 25 mg (or the maximum tolerated dose). The control group was given carvedilol dose titration according to standard guidelines. Blood plasma was taken on the first day before treatment and on the day the patient was discharged. MDA levels were checked by the ELISA method.
Results: The decrease in mean MDA levels was greater in the carvedilol rapid titration group than in the control group (2.84 ± 1.00 vs. 3.59 ± 2.55). However, these results were not statistically significant (p = 0.590). In the rapid titration group, carvedilol also showed a change in post-pre-MDA with a larger mean decrease (-0.55 ± 1.01) although not statistically significant (p = 0.157).
Conclusion: Rapid up-titration of carvedilol in patients with HFrEF during hospitalization can reduce MDA levels better than titration according to standard guidelines but is not statistically significant.
State of the art in low-temperature and high-temperature electrolysis
Authors: Ayers Katherine E. , Marina Olga A.
Published: November 2024

Water electrolysis is gaining traction in large-scale applications, with production of multiple technologies scaling to hundreds and thousands of megawatts of new electrolyzer capacity annually. Low-temperature electrolysis has dominated the electrolyzer market for decades, but still only represents a small amount of the overall hydrogen market, due to the higher production costs versus hydrogen derived from fossil fuels. Advances are needed in capital cost and efficiency to close the cost gap, especially for energy applications. Similarly, while high-temperature electrolyzers can operate more efficiently, reducing the operating cost, they still need further scale-up and cost reduction to compete in these markets. Understanding the recent advances in each and the priority research directions is important to focus and accelerate innovation, and will be discussed in this article. The different advantages and disadvantages of each of these technologies will also be reviewed; there will likely be applications for each in the overall deployment of renewable hydrogen.

Graphical abstract
Artocarpus Chaplasha
Authors: Iddison Phil
Published: November 2024

This article introduces and illustrates an unusual member of the jackfruit family, Artocarpus chaplasha Roxb., in the context of the more commonly consumed members of the Artocarpus genus. The opportunity to see and taste this uncommon fruit led down interesting research paths.
Possibilities of Predicting Methotrexate-associated Toxicity in Oncohematology Based on Molecular Genetic Testing Methods
Authors: Simavonyan Zarui K. , Valiev Timur T. , Savelyeva Marina I. , Abdullaev Sherzod P. , Varfolomeeva Svetlana R.
Published: November 2024

The development of highly effective protocols for the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and non-Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL) followed the path of escalation of doses of cytostatic agents and improvement of supportive care. Methotrexate (MTX), used in high doses (1000–5000 mg/m2), radically changed the results of treatment of ALL and NHL in children, increasing patient survival rates. The downside of the anti-tumor effect of MTX is its organ toxicity, and therefore the development of methods for predicting the development of toxic effects of MTX is an important scientific and practical task. In recent years, the genetic factors of the patient’s organism have been considered as one of the reasons for the individual variability of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic parameters of MTX. Abnormal function of folate cycle enzymes, methotrexate transporter proteins, due to gene polymorphism, may affect the effectiveness and toxicity of the drug. This review summarizes and analyzes the known genetic polymorphisms involved in MTX metabolism. The possibilities of predicting toxicity, as well as the prospects for individualizing therapy, taking into account the results of pharmacogenetic testing, are presented.
Single-phase equiatomic Co-Cr-Fe-Ni high-entropy alloy with excellent strain gauge sensitivity
Authors: Bykov Viktor , Kulikova Tatiana , Sterkhov Evgenii , Evdokimov Ilya
Published: November 2024

Single-phase Co-Cr-Fe-Ni high-entropy alloys boast exceptional mechanical and electrical properties. These alloys are suitable for various functional applications, particularly as strain gauges and high ohmic resistors, due to this fact. The resistance-tension tests of the equiatomic CoCrFeNi high-entropy alloy demonstrate higher strain gauge factor (GF) and elastic limit values than commercial strain gauges. In the elongation range of ε = 0–0.2%, the resistivity of the studied alloys follows a strictly linear pattern with respect to the applied load, up to 435 MPa. Heat treatment enhances the GF value of the as-cast alloy from 3.07 to 3.45. The annealing process changes the sample structure, resulting in an increase in the GF.