bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidencia de enfermedades metabólicas que generan restricciones de trabajadores que realizan trabajos en alturas y realizan exámenes ocupacionales evaluados en la IPS Fisiohealth
Authors: Willinto Jurado Saavedra
Published: February 2024

Las enfermedades metabólicas son una de las primeras causas que generan restricciones para personas que realizan tareas en altura a nivel Colombia, el objetivo de este estudio fue determinar la incidencia de estas patologías en personas que trabajan en alturas evaluados en la IPS fisiohealth de la dorada caldas así generar medidas de promoción y detección para disminuir accidentes laborales y enfermedades de origen común.
Immunological aspects of vaccination in HIV-infected patients
Authors: Zhestkov Alexander V. , Zolotov Maxim O. , Kadantseva Elizaveta V. , Nikitina Tatyana R. , Protasov Andrey D.
Published: February 2024

Until recently, HIV infection does not lose its relevance. In 2022, 630 000 people died and 1.3 million people became infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV-positive persons develop more infectious diseases than healthy people do; the causative agents are mainly opportunistic microorganisms. Streptococcus pneumoniae is the main causative agent of infection in the lungs in HIV-infected persons. In order to prevent the development of severe pneumococcal infections and to overcome antibiotic resistance, vaccines have been developed. There are polysaccharide (PPV) and conjugate (PCV) vaccines. According to clinical recommendations, vaccination of previously unvaccinated HIV-infected patients is carried out regardless of T-helper cell level. However, no data were found on the effect of PCV13 on immunological memory cells. The purpose of this study is to assess an effect of PCV13 vaccination on the immune system in HIV-infected subjects.
Materials and methods. The study included 200 patients with HIV infection, which were divided into two groups: I — received a dose of PCV13 (n = 100) and control group (n = 100). During the first visit, immunological and microbiological studies were carried out. On the second visit, a PCV13 was injected into the deltoid muscle. The third visit was made a year later, where immunological and microbiological studies were repeated. Participants were divided into 4 subgroups depending on CD4+ T cell level. The microbial study was done using a swab collected from the back of the throat.
Results. During the immunological examination at visit 1, abnormalities were detected in all examined populations and immune cell subsets. At 12 months post-vaccination, the median levels of CD3+CD4+ and CD45RO+ T lymphocytes in the immunized group were higher than pre-vaccination levels compared to control group, in which the values changed insignificantly. Our data confirm the immunological effectiveness of PCV13 administration in HIV-infected patients. In patients with peripheral blood CD19+ lymphocyte deficiency, had increased microbial detection rate (p = 0.003).
Conclusion. As a result, due to the high risk of pneumococcal pneumonia, HIV-infected patients should be immunized with a 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine.
Evaluating the Financial Efficiency of the Healthcare System: A Three-Stage DEA Model Analysis
Authors:   Institute of Economics of the Committee of Sciences Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Almaty, Omir Aida S. ,   Turan University, Almaty,   Almaty Management University, Almaty, Kazakhstan, Panzabekova Aksana Zh. ,   Institute of Economics of the Committee of Sciences Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Almaty, Kazakhstan, Satybaldin Azimkhan A. ,   Institute of Economics of the Committee of Sciences Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Almaty, Kazakhstan
Published: February 2024

Relevance. Public health effectiveness is crucial for population health, especially in the face of global challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. The study applies the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model to measure the efficiency of operating costs in the health care system across various regions of Kazakhstan from 2017 to 2021. Existing methods for assessing healthcare effectiveness often overlook the system's complexity, which turns DEA into a valuable tool to identify inequalities in healthcare availability and quality. Research objective. This study aims to employ the DEA model to measure the efficiency of operating costs in the health care system across regions of Kazakhstan in 2017-2021. Data and methods. The DEA model was chosen for its ability to analyze the efficiency of operating costs. Data were collected from the Agency for Strategic Planning and Reforms of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Results. Our findings indicate the need for increased healthcare financing in specific regions, emphasizing the importance of transparent spending. The study concludes that the DEA model can regularly assess health financing, ensuring resources are directed where most needed. The novelty lies in establishing a link between financing and health outcomes. Conclusions. The study's results and methodology can be used by public health authorities in assessing operating costs' effectiveness, allocating resources judiciously, and making informed decisions to enhance the healthcare system.
ANÁLISE DA ABORDAGEM SOBRE A ANEMIA FALCIFORME EM LIVROS DIDÁTICOS DE CIÊNCIAS DA NATUREZA
Authors: Santos Maycon Silva Batista , Santos Juliana Dias , Reis João Vitor dos Santos , Silva Tamires Barbosa , Silva Annita Ingrid Alves , Nascimento Lia Midori Meyer
Published: February 2024

Este trabalho objetivou analisar a abordagem sobre a Anemia Falciforme (AF) nas coleções de Ciências da Natureza e Suas Tecnologias aprovadas no Programa Nacional do Livro e do Material Didático (PNLD) de 2021 para o Ensino Médio. Os focos desta análise foram: o discurso racial associado a AF e ao racismo científico; as abordagens de saúde; e a adequação do ponto de vista clínico-científico. Para tanto, adotou-se a análise de conteúdo proposta por Bardin, envolvendo a leitura flutuante das coleções, a criação ou a adaptação de categorias e indicadores para análise, a descrição do material e a interpretação dos dados. Os dados foram comparados com análises anteriores sobre a abordagem da AF em livros didáticos de biologia do PNLD de 2012 e de 2015. A abordagem da AF, quando ocorreu nas coleções atuais, esteve atrelada a seleção natural, sem pautar questões raciais, e a partir de uma descrição molecular. Observou-se um silenciamento na abordagem sobre a AF em relação aos achados de pesquisas anteriores. Além disso, manteve-se a predominância de abordagens biomédicas e reducionistas sobre a AF, desconsiderando aspectos sociopolíticos e históricos relacionados a doença.
High Temperature Mechanical Properties of the Platinum Group Metals
Authors: Merker Jürgen , Lupton David , Töpfer Michael , Knake Harald
Published: February 2024

The platinum group metals are well suited for use at extremely high temperatures under mechanical loads and simultaneous corrosive attack. They have high melting points, excellent chemical stability and are highly resistant to oxidation. When using these materials in the design of components it is necessary to have data available on their elastic properties as a function of temperature. In this paper, investigations are presented into the temperature dependence of Young’s modulus, the modulus of rigidity and Poisson’s ratio for platinum, platinum alloys, rhodium and iridium. Measurements were carried out at the Friedrich Schiller University, Jena, using a resonance technique. Influences from both the microstructure and the alloying elements on the elastic properties and their temperature dependence were found.
Electrochemical Destruction of Organic Hazardous Wastes
Authors: Nelson Norvell
Published: February 2024

The destruction of hazardous organic waste produced as waste products in chemical processes has become an industry in itself, regulated by environmental agencies and government bodies. The environmentally harmful waste has been incinerated at high temperature with the aim of forming less harmful and less complex compounds, but this may lead to dioxin formation in the presence of chlorine-containing waste. It may also be treated electrochemically to result in carbon dioxide and water. One on-site electrochemical method, described here, which uses platinum-plated titanium electrodes, can treat most organic waste materials very effectively at low temperatures.
Corrosion Control by Anodic Protection
Authors: Edeleanu C.
Published: February 2024

The technique of cathodic protection is well known and has been widely applied to a number of corrosion problems. It is not so well known that corrosion can also be prevented in suitable cases by anodic protection, using a platinum electrode system. The author shows that, with adequate laboratory work beforehand and proper instrumentation, the use of anodic protection can make an effective contribution to the life of a chemical plant.
Novel Method of Electrical Storage
Authors: Lewis F. A.
Published: February 2024

Different pairs of palladium alloys can form a series of secondary cells that depend for their operation, both during charging and discharging, solely on the transfer of hydrogen from one electrode to the other. Cells may be prepared with a low internal resistance and future studies of a wider range of palladium alloys are likely to extend the range of working voltages available.
Low Temperature Catalytic Heaters
Authors: MacConnell J. D.
Published: February 2024

Platinum group metal catalysts are incorporated in the Cataheat flameless combustion systems designed by Matthey Bishop to burn hydrocarbon fuels. These systems are safer and more efficient than radiant heaters with an open flame. They are used in portable heaters for a wide range of agricultural, industrial and recreational purposes.
The Platinum Metals in Crystal Pulling
Authors: Brice J. C. , Whiffin P. A. C.
Published: February 2024

The platinum metals do not react with most molten oxides and halides and therefore they have many applications in crystal pulling. They can be used not only for crucibles but also for heat shields and baffles to control both the spatial and temporal temperature distributions. The construction and use of these components is described in this article.
Temperature -Programmed Reduction of Platinum Group Metals Catalysts
Authors: Subramanian S.
Published: February 2024

The characterisation of platinum group metals catalysts is commonly carried out by temperature-programmed reduction, the spectrum of which has been used as a “finger-print” of the reducibility of the catalyst. Recent literature suggests that the utility of temperature-programmed reduction can be further enhanced by combining it with other techniques, such as temperature-programmed desorption and thermogravimetry. Temperature-programmed reduction can be used to investigate phenomena such as metal-support interaction and bimetal formation qualitatively, and to assess quantitatively the stoichiometry of the catalytic precursor. It may also be used to assess metal distribution in a composite oxide supported precursar. An overview of the concepts and applications of temperature-programmed reduction is presented here, and a selection of recent reported methodologies and findings on supported platinum group metal catalysts are discussed.
The Development of Platino-Calixarenes
Authors: Wieser-Jeunesse Catherine , Matt Dominique
Published: February 2024

Although many promising aspects of the chemistry of calix[4] arenes have been highlighted in recent years, relatively little attention has been paid to the co-ordination chemistry of these macrocyclic molecules. The present paper describes some recent developments made with platinum metal complexes attached to calix phosphine ligands, that is, calixarenes substituted with phosphino groups.
Catalysts Play a Major Role in Development
Authors: Chiffey A. F.
Published: February 2024

The second Anglo-Dutch Symposium on Catalysis and Organometallic Chemistry was held on the 26th September 1997, in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. The symposium was attended by more man 80 participants from industry and universities in Britain and The Netherlands. A series of lectures was given on catalysis and its applications, and there were more than thirty poster presentations. This report highlights some aspects involving the platinum group metals.
Development of the Noble Metal/Oxide Coated Titanium Electrode
Authors: Hayfield P. C. S.
Published: February 2024

In the first part of this paper, published in the January issue, development work resulting in the first noble metal/oxide coated titanium electrode was described and some of the teething problems encountered were discussed. Here, the story is continued with the further development
of paint compositions: platinum-only and platinum/iridium, for coating the electrodes, and their utilisation in chlorate, mercury- and diaphragm-type chlor-alkali cells. Later, these coatings were replaced by ones containing ruthenium dioxide. This part begins with the early platinum paint
compositions.
Development of the Noble Metal/Oxide Coated Titanium Electrode
Authors: Hayfield P. C.S.
Published: February 2024

The first two parts of this paper on titanium-based electrodes concentrated on the development of coatings comprising noble metals and their oxides suitable for use in chloride-bearing electrolytes. This concluding part deals with similar types of electrodes which act as counter electrodes
in commercial processes where the product is made on the cathode. Many electrolytes in this category involve sulfuric acid, which means that oxygen evolves at the anodes. Applications for which these electrodes are used range from those operating at very high current density, such as electrogalvanising,
to others at much lower current density, such as impressed current cathodic protection of rebar in concrete.
High Performance Metal Hydride Alloy for Rechargeable Battery Technology
Authors: Pratt A. S. , Willey D. B. , Harris I. R.
Published: February 2024

Nickel metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable battery technology is currently the major competitor to well-established nickel cadmium (NiCad) technology. Due to new legislation in the European Union and elsewhere, NiCad cells are gradually being replaced to reduce the use of toxic cadmium,
and NiMH cells are predicted to be a reliable alternative. NiMH batteries provide a higher energy density and are environmentally more acceptable than NiCad cells. In addition they have a low memory effect, allowing easy charging and discharging. However, current NiMH technology has limitations,
particularly when cells are rapidly charged/discharged, and the lifetime of a cell is ~ 500 cycles, compared to ~ 1000 cycles for NiCad. Here, we report advances enabling rapid charging/discharging to be achieved by the modification of the surface of the metal hydride alloy with platinum group
metals. This enhances the rates of sorption of hydrogen within the alloy, and the alloy is shown to be stable in air. An overview of NiMH battery technology is presented and developments resulting in high performance cells are described.
A comprehensive numerical investigation of multi-scale particle shape effects on small-strain stiffness of sands
Authors: Nie Jia-Yan , Cui Yifei , Wang Guodong , Wang Rui , Zhang Ningning , Zhang Lei , Wu Zhijun
Published: February 2024

The effects of multi-scale particle shape characteristics on the small-strain stiffness of granular soils remain controversial. This study revisits this topic using well-calibrated three-dimensional discrete-element simulations incorporating a particle roughness–embedded contact model and particles of realistic shape. Based on the numerical simulation results, the multi-scale particle shape effects on the small-strain stiffness of sands and the magnitude of Hardin's equation parameters are systematically investigated, and the underlying micro-mechanisms are also thoroughly explored. Results indicate that the small-strain stiffness increases with the increase of particles’ overall irregularity due to the increased mechanical coordination number, but decreases with the increase of particle surface roughness because of the decreased contact normal stiffness. In addition, the constant term parameter and void ratio term parameter of Hardin's equation increases and decreases linearly, respectively, with the particles’ overall regularity, but reduces and grows with the particle surface roughness, respectively. Furthermore, the stress exponent is almost unchanged with the particles’ overall regularity, but increases with the particle surface roughness, which determines the relative proportions of contacts under asperity-dominated, transitional and Hertzian stages. The study helps to advance the cross-scale understanding of multi-scale particle shape information in relation to small-strain stiffness of sands.
Examining the tourism experiences of Workation travelers
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Lee Jin-Hee , Kim Nam-Jo
Published: February 2024

This study aims to examine the concept of workation and develop a theory accordingly. Grounded theory was employed as the research methodology, and theoretical sampling was used as the sampling method. Participants in this study included Koreans who had engaged in workation activities within the past year, selected based on their level of involvement in both work and tourism activities. Data were collected from 16 individuals through two rounds of interviews conducted between September 2nd and October 13th, 2022. The analysis yielded a total of 93 concepts, 24 subcategories, and 9 categories. Workation was found to be a convergence concept that encompasses tourism, work, and daily life. Attributes that differentiate it from existing tourism include proactive, impromptu, independent, local, and daily tourism experiences.The core category emerged as 'tourism + work + everyday long-term tourism experience as a new stimulus,' leading to the formulation of the 'TWD (Tourism + Work + Daily) long-term stay theory. This study differentiates itself from prior research by departing from a binary categorization of workation as either work or tourism. Instead, it explores the concept of workation within the context of a blend of tourism, work, and daily life. Furthermore, this study holds academic significance in its revelation of the distinct characteristics of the tourism experiences associated with workation, setting them apart from conventional tourism experiences, and subsequently proposing a theory to capture these distinctions. From a political and practical perspective, this research offers valuable insights into leveraging workation to stimulate regional tourism, as evidenced by the contents of the interviews. This study is expected to make a valuable contribution to the innovative growth of the tourism industry by proactively addressing emerging social phenomena and discussing workation as a new and local tourism trend.
The impact of smart order features in franchise coffee shops on perceived value and continuous use intention: The moderating effect of innovation propensity
Authors:   The Tourism Sciences Society Of Korea, Park Young-Won , Lee Chung-Hun
Published: February 2024

This research investigates the influence of smart ordering characteristics in franchised coffee shops on perceived value and the intention to continue using the service. These characteristics are categorized into two value dimensions: perceived benefits (including ubiquitous connectivity, controllability, economic advantages, and personalization) and perceived sacrifices (comprising post-benefit aspects and annoyances). The study also explores the moderating role of innovation propensity in this context. The findings of this study indicate that the perceived benefits of smart order attributes, namely ubiquitous connectivity, controllability, economic advantages, and personalization, as well as the perceived sacrifices related to post-benefit aspects and annoyances, significantly impact perceived value. Perceived value, in turn, significantly influences the intention to continue using smart ordering services. Furthermore, the study confirms that the impact of controllability, personalization, post-benefit aspects, and annoyances on perceived value is contingent upon the level of innovation propensity among smart order users. Therefore, it is recommended that franchise coffee shops tailor their smart order services to align with the innovation propensity levels of their users while taking into account users' perceived value in the formulation of marketing strategies. The results of this study provide valuable insights into understanding the variations in perceived value and the intention to continue using smart ordering services based on users' innovation propensity. This, in turn, is expected to contribute to the development of customized smart order services that cater to users' innovation propensity levels, address diverse user needs, and facilitate the planning of service design and marketing strategies aimed at enhancing user satisfaction and fostering continued usage.
Actitud ante el uso del lenguaje inclusivo en las clases de ELE: el caso de Rumanía y China
Authors: Linares La Barba Mariana Ángela , Santamaría Pérez M. Isabel
Published: February 2024

It is very well known the vast discussion generated by inclusive language, not only in Spanish-speaker countries but also in the whole world. Although the institutions are reluctant to use it, a part of society such as the LGTBIQ+ and the masculine or female collective wants to initiate a language change to avoid discrimination. The present work intends to analyze how the culture of a society influences when teaching or learning the use of the language included in an ELE class in countries (China and Romania) with a different attitude regarding women or the LGTBIQ+ collective. To carry out this study, the qualitative method was applied through interrogations of both the student and the teacher. The study's results made it possible to determine that, the teacher, people of gender belonging to the Romanian country dominated in the use of alternatives, while the Chinese teacher favored them. Likewise, students from both countries have shown interest in learning a more inclusive language.
El impacto de la enseñanza remota de emergencia en las competencias escritas y los componentes lingüísticos en lenguas extranjeras: Costa Rica
Authors: Chao Chao Kuok Wa , Arias Corrales Ileana
Published: February 2024

In this mixed research, it was proposed to analyze the impact that emergency remote teaching has had on the methodology of teaching foreign languages in written skills; it was also proposed to describe how this adaptation was carried out in the teaching of vocabulary and grammar from the point of view of 109 teachers of Chinese, English, French and others in Costa Rica. They answered an online questionnaire and participated in focus groups. As results, it was found that for methodological adaptation during the pandemic, ICT played a fundamental role. Likewise, in the development of written comprehension and expression, activities that were proposed before the pandemic were privileged. In the case of grammar and vocabulary, the teachers dedicated the synchronic meetings to the explanation of contents and to clarify doubts. These traditional classroom practices coexisted with the use of applications and technology to vary class activities and resources. Another of the great challenges detected was the integration of ICT into the teaching of foreign languages not as a support, but as an integral part of the curriculum.
Underlying processes in the Norwegian Universal Preventive Program for social anxiety
Authors: Tore Aune
Published: February 2024

Objective: Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) is among the most common, widespread, and incapacitating psychiatric disorders, also among children and adolescents. Although efficient treatments have been reported, few children and adolescents receive adequate treatment. A universal prevention program has been shown to be efficacious both among those with syndromal and subsyndromal social anxiety. However, few universal prevention investigations undergo testing of mechanistic hypotheses or how an intervention works across levels of social anxiety. This study aims to test and report the processes underlying the effectiveness of an RCT prevention program to reduce social anxiety in a population-based sample of preadolescents. Method: A parallel multiple mediator model was used to examine the mediation of outcomes from the Norwegian Universal Prevention Program for Social Anxiety (NUPP-SA) by five intermediary variables that well approximate established DSM-5 social anxiety disorder diagnostic criteria. The sample consisted of 1748 pupils between 11 years - 14 years (SD = 1.1) of age assessed twice during a one-year period. Results: The NUPP-SA works differently for the total sample compared to those with social anxiety disorder symptoms. Among the former, the NUPP-SA intervention works via public performance, avoidance, physical/cognitive, and assertiveness factors. For the latter, the NUPP-SA works via the public performance factor. The intervention did not work for either group via the social encounter factor. Conclusion: Universal prevention programs are essential for reducing the impacts of chronic disorders at the individual, institutional, and societal levels. The results from this study support the notion that many children with various levels of social anxiety can be impacted with a Universal prevention intervention program specifically aimed at reducing public performance anxiety.
SOP for RT (Reverse Transcription) Promega kit v1
Authors: G Tansey Malu
Published: February 2024

SOP for RT (Reverse Transcription) Promega kit
UV decontamination of materials v1
Authors: Essel Elena
Published: February 2024

Protocol for reducing DNA contamination on tubes, bottles, zip lock bags and other reaction vessels and containers used in the ancient DNA cleanroom by UV treatment. Change log: Formatting edits for consistency with other documents/protocols (20240110, EE)
TE buffer v1
Authors: Schmidt Anna , Nagel Sarah , Meyer Matthias
Published: February 2024

TE buffer (10 mM Tris-HCl, 1 mM EDTA, pH 8.0) is used in various steps of sample preparation by the Ancient DNA Core Unit of the MPI-EVA.
militar perante o Inquisidor:
Authors: Araujo Sarah dos Santos
Published: February 2024

Em uma denúncia ao Santo Ofício durante uma visita ao Grão-Pará conhecemos o denunciado Antonio Ferreira Ribeiro, militar de patente do período colonial. A denúncia nos permite perceber as relações não apenas da Inquisição, mas toda uma estrutura de poder que buscava controlar e punir os desvios da fé. Sua história também pode ser rastreada em consulta à documentação do Arquivo Histórico Ultramarino (AHU) e essa documentação permite visualizar as relações existentes entre as estruturas de poder religioso e secular. Deste modo, vamos observar como se estabelecia a rede de relações construída pelo personagem e como este se envolveu em múltiplas denúncias, que levaram a conflitos com várias figuras importante da região.
Bibliometric analysis of peer-reviewed literature on perinatal depression in Mexico
Authors: Cruz-Cano David Osvaldo , Flores-Ramos Mónica , Sánchez-Rivera Uriel Ángel , Cruz-Cano Norma Berenice
Published: February 2024

Background. Perinatal depression (PND) is a clinical disease developed in any stage during the pregnancy and postpartum period with serious health and economic implications. Objective. The aim of this work was to analyze via bibliometrics indicators Mexico’s production on PND to provide a view of the academic landscape and a comprehensive reference for subsequent research in the country. Method. The Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases were used to perform a search for peer reviewed papers related to PND in México. The search was made following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). The extracted data were processed with VOS Viewer to examine link strength and clusters associations of diverse bibliometrics variables. Results. A total of 132 records were retrieved and we included 70 studies in the bibliometric analysis after application of the exclusion criteria. The authors with more papers were Navarrete L., and Asunción Lara M. The institutions with more papers were the National Institute of Perinatology, Ramón de la Fuente National Institute of Psychiatry, and National Institute of Public Health of Mexico. A diminution of the research considered in PND is observed in the last two years. Four keyword clusters were identified related to PND: symptoms, prevalence, pregnancy. Discussion and conclusion. The scarce literature concerning PND in Mexico compared with other countries could be due the limited collaboration between the health institutes. An urgent need to increase research on PND in Mexico is evident to be applicable in the management of resources in the healthcare system.
Aquarium fish and temperature neuropharmacology: Update
Authors: Urakov Aleksandr L. , Fisher Evgeny L. , Lebedev Andrey А. , Shabanov Petr D.
Published: February 2024

At the end of the 20th century in Russia, research on temperature dependence of specific pharmacological activity of antihypoxants and some neurotropic drugs under normo- and hypothermia of various biological objects in experimental and clinical conditions was started. At the beginning of the 21st century, an original biological model of acute hypoxia in aquarium fish was developed. This model made it possible to start the study of fish resistance to hypoxia, screen biologically active substances, and evaluate the activity of antihypoxants under normo- and hypothermia. The initial results of using this model allowed us to conclude that the dynamics of motor activity of fish under acute hypoxic conditions are similar to that of motor activity of fetuses inside the uterus under diagnostic intrauterine hypoxia created by voluntary apnea in a pregnant woman. The period of immobility of fish and fetuses under hypoxia was directly proportional to the value of their resistance to hypoxia. The reduction in conditions of acute hypoxic water temperature with floating fish in it at 10°C lengthens the duration of the immobile state of fish and preservation of their viability more than two times, and the preliminary introduction of hydrogen peroxide in the water in therapeutic dose along with hypothermia lengthens the corresponding periods by four times. Neurotropic drugs such as ethyl alcohol and local and general anesthetics will completely eliminate the pain syndrome that develops during local hypothermia in healthy patients. In addition, immersing the hands of people under alcohol intoxication and/or surgical anesthesia in water with melting ice for 2 min alleviates pain in the hands and accelerates the development of subsequent hyperemia in the skin of the hands by two times compared with the norm.
The effectiveness of the original anticonvulsant Galodif® — a GABAA receptor modulator for alcohol withdrawal syndrome
Authors: Shushpanova Tamara V. , Mandel Anna I. , Bokhan Nikolay A. , Schastnyy Evgeny D.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND: The development of new drugs to improve the effectiveness of treatment and rehabilitation programs for patients suffering from addiction diseases, which are non-addictive and have a stimulating effect on detoxification processes in the body, can increase the effectiveness of therapy and reduce the cost of treatment. A deficiency of GABAergic inhibition in brain structures plays a leading role in the occurrence of paroxysmalness. The innovative anticonvulsant Galodif® (1-[(3-chlorophenyl)(phenyl)methyl]urea), a GABAA receptor modulator, has low toxicity and hepatoprotective properties, which allows it to be recommended for use in the treatment of patients with alcohol dependence.
AIM: The aim of this study is to evaluation of the effectiveness of the use of the anticonvulsant drug galodif1 in complex therapy in patients with alcohol dependence with compulsive and paroxysmal disorders with pathological craving for alcohol when withdrawing of alcohol.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A limited open-type clinical study of the therapeutic effectiveness of the innovative anticonvulsant galodif1 included 128 male patients (average age 38.3 ± 8.9 years) with a diagnosis of “Mental and behavioral disorders as a result of alcohol consumption, dependence syndrome” (F10.232) and “Mental and behavioral disorders as a result of alcohol consumption, withdrawal states” (F10.302). 68 patients received Galodif® 300 mg per day as an anticonvulsant for 21 days. 60 patients made up the comparison group, receiving carbamazepine at a dose of 400 mg per day.
RESULTS: The use of the anticonvulsant Galodif® in complex therapy of patients revealed: normothymoleptic activity of the drug; when assessing depression on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), the average total score decreased from 28.3 ± 1.3 to 5.7 ± 1.9, and a reduction in unmotivated fear and anxiety was noted; vegetative stabilizing effect with a sympathicolytic component with normalization of heart rate; reduction of headaches; weakening or disappearance of pathological desire during withdrawal syndrome in 88% of cases, in the post-withdrawal state — in 57% of cases; taking the drug did not cause any unwanted side effects.
CONCLUSIONS: The use of the anticonvulsant Galodif®, which modulates GABAA receptors, has low toxicity and detoxification properties and does not cause side effects, has been proposed as one of the modern pharmacotherapeutic approaches in the treatment of patients with alcohol dependence.
Bacteriophages: Clinical significance and application prospects
Authors: Danilov Andrey I. , Evseev Andrey V.
Published: February 2024

A review of the literature data covering topical issues of the use of bacteriophages in clinical practice is presented. Traditionally, phage therapy is based on the use of natural phages for the lysis of bacteria at the infection site. Despite some limitations, it has significant advantages over antibiotic therapy. The use of biotechnological methods currently makes it possible to eliminate the disadvantages of phage therapy by creating recombinant drugs and, in the future, expand its capabilities through the use of lytic phage proteins and their modified derivatives. Currently, bacteriophages are used not only for the treatment of infections but also for prevention and diagnosis (phagotyping to identify the source of infection). Bacteriophages are also used in genetic engineering as vectors for transferring DNA sections. Few side effects have been described about bacteriophages. Particularly, they do not negatively affect the intestinal microbiota, and compared with antibiotics, they are much less likely to be associated with allergic reactions. Moreover, existing randomized clinical trials, which are the gold standard of clinical trials, in phage therapy are extremely insufficient, which dictates the need to concentrate the efforts of all stakeholders in this direction.
Subsurface Imaging Using Interferometry of Distributed Acoustic Sensing Ambient Noise Measurement along a Dark Fiber Line: A Case Study in Downtown Reno, Nevada
Authors: Mirzanejad Majid , Seylabi Elnaz , Tyler Scott , Ajo-Franklin Jonathan , Hatch-Ibarra Rachel , Saltiel Seth
Published: February 2024

Distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) technology is an emerging field of seismic sensing that enables recording ambient noise seismic data along the entire length of a fiber-optic cable at meter-scale resolution. Such a dense spatial resolution of recordings over long distances has not been possible using traditional methods because of limited hardware resources and logistical concerns in an urban environment. The low spatial resolution of traditional passive seismic acquisition techniques has limited the accuracy of the previously generated velocity profiles in many important urban regions, including the Reno-area basin, to the top 100 m of the underlying subsurface. Applying the method of seismic interferometry to ambient noise strain rate data obtained from a dark-fiber cable allows for generating noise cross correlations, which can be used to infer shallow and deep subsurface properties and basin geometry. We gathered DAS ambient noise seismic data for this study using a 12 km portion of a dark-fiber line in Reno, Nevada. We used gathered data to generate and invert dispersion curves to estimate the near-surface shear-wave velocity structure. Comparing the generated velocity profiles with previous regional studies shows good agreement in determining the average depth to bedrock and velocity variations in the analyzed domain. A synthetic experiment is also performed to verify the proposed framework further and better understand the effect of the infrastructural cover along the cable. The results obtained from this research provide insight into the application of DAS using dark-fiber lines in subsurface characterization in urban environments. It also discusses the potential effects of the conduit that covers such permanent fiber installations on the produced inversion results.
Insulin Resistance and Abnormalities in Blood Values of Icelandic Children Receiving Obesity Treatment
Authors:   Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland, Arnfríðardóttir Anna Rún , Þorsteinsdóttir Sigrún ,   Children‘s Hospital Iceland, Landspítali University Hospital Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland, 3Faculty of Health Promotion, Sport and Leisure Studies, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland, Ólafsdóttir Anna Sigríður ,   Children‘s Hospital Iceland, Landspítali University Hospital Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland, 3Faculty of Health Promotion, Sport and Leisure Studies, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland, Brynjólfsdóttir Berglind ,   Children‘s Hospital Iceland, Landspítali University Hospital Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland, Bjarnason Ragnar ,   Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland, Children‘s Hospital Iceland, Landspítali University Hospital Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland, Helgason Tryggvi ,   Children‘s Hospital Iceland, Landspítali University Hospital Iceland, Reykjavík, Iceland
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION: Worldwide, the rates of childhood obesity have risen dramatically in recent decades. Obesity may cause serious sequelae during childhood and throughout adulthood. Insulin resistance is prevalent metabolic abnormality in pediatric obesity. The Pediatric Obesity Clinic was established in 2011 at the Children's Medical Center, Landspítali University Hospital. This study aimed to observe metabolic abnormalities and insulin resistance in blood values of children receiving obesity treatment. METHODS: The study included all children (n = 180) who received obesity treatment at The Pediatric Obesity Clinic between 2016 and 2020 and had at least eight out of the nine following serum values analyzed while fasting: HbA1c, glucose, insulin, ALAT, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, TSH and free T4. HOMA-IR value was calculated from insulin and glucose values. Decreased insulin sensitivity was defined as HOMA-IR > 3.42. RESULTS: 84% of the children had at least one abnormality in their tested blood values. 50% had abnormal insulin values and 44% had abnormal ALAT values. 78% had decreased insulin sensitivity, and their mean HOMA-IR was 7.3 (± 5.0), surpassing twice the normal value. CONCLUSION: A large majority of the children undergoing obesity treatment already exhibited signs of metabolic sequelae during their treatment. The prevalence of affected children has increased compared to a similar study conducted in 2013. Of particular concern is the growing number of children with decreased insulin sensitivity. Proper measures must be taken to combat this alarming trend.
Neuroprotective Effect of Agmatine in Ischemic Vascular Events
Authors: Mosqueda Lisbeth , Ruiz-Oropeza Stacy , Gomez-Acevedo Claudia
Published: February 2024

Ischemic cerebrovascular diseases are leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Given the need for a pharmacological treatment for these diseases, agmatine has gained great interest due to its neuroprotective properties. This article explores these properties of agmatine in ischemic events and their underlying mechanisms. Agmatine, considered as a neuromodulator, exerts its effects through its interaction with various molecular targets, including glutamate receptors, nitric oxide synthase, and metalloproteinases. Its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and its role in neurotransmission processes postulate agmatine as a potential candidate for neuroprotection. Agmatine has a positive effect in the central nervous system to counteract excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, alteration of the blood-brain barrier and energy disorders during ischemic events. This review describes the multiple interactions of agmatine within the ischemic cascade known to date, showing its ability to mitigate free radical formation, attenuate excitotoxicity, modulate inflammatory responses, stabilize the blood-brain barrier, and preserve mitochondrial function. These properties position agmatine as a promising therapeutic agent for ischemic cerebrovascular diseases.
Empowering Diverse Graduate-Student Women for Leadership in Global Health (EMERGE): Pilot Evaluation Findings
Authors: Yount Kathryn
Published: February 2024

Background: Women are under-represented in global health leadership worldwide. Socio- ecological barriers may diminish women’s institutional belonging, career aspirations, and leadership pathways. Aims: In this pilot study, we describe and evaluate EMERGE, Empowering Women for Leadership in Global Health, a theory-based, multicomponent leadership development program for diverse women graduate students. Methods: Emory graduate students who self-identified as women and engaged in global health were eligible to participate in EMERGE. Socio-ecologically grounded program components included: a three-day leadership development workshop; nine-month mentored team- challenge projects; monthly seminars by women leaders; social-media outreach; and project presentations with peers, mentors, and university leadership. We conducted a mixed-methods, single-group pretest-posttest evaluation that included a) four quantitative self-assessments on leadership capabilities over the program period and b) three focus groups with mentored teams that explored fellows’ experiences applying leadership skills, managing team projects, and working with mentors. Results: All 12 selected fellows self-identified as women from at least one other underrepresented group. Half originated from low- or middle-income countries. At baseline, completing the team project was a common short-term (12-month) aspiration. Managing and leading teams emphasizing equity, mentoring, and participatory problem solving were common longer-term (1-5-year) aspirations. At baseline, fellows were least confident about negotiating their interests and most confident about making ethical decisions. Overall, fellows expressed high satisfaction with instructors (mean 8.8 of 10) and content (mean 8.3 of 10) of the leadership development workshop as well as increased confidence and proficiency in most leadership, team-management, and mentor-related skills at month one. Reported confidence and proficiency in most skills declined by program midline and then increased and peaked at endline. Conclusion: The EMERGE program supported sustained improvements in fellows’ leadership capabilities. The program’s multi-month and multi-component approach grounded in socio- ecological theory were key elements. EMERGE holds promise to train the next generation of women leaders in global health. Future work is needed to identify opportunities to support leadership pathways for women in global health in diverse work settings.
Microbial Formation on Different Biomedia Surface for Wastewater Treatment
Authors:   Civil Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering, Elmergib University, Alkhums, Libya, Khaled S
Published: February 2024

Even though commercial plastic media such as Cosmoball successfully treated municipal wastewater without clogging, its inadequate surface area prevents its use for high biofilm growth rates. This study compares microbial formation on the activated carbon (AC)-coated and non-coated Cosmoball media by submerging four activated carbon AC-coated Cosmo balls and non-coated Cosmo balls in five-liter beakers containing municipal wastewater. The researchers then analyzed the surface morphology of the biofilms on the coated and non-coated surfaces and applied the next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology to the ecology of microbial-mediated processes. By Day 11, the AC-coated media showed a biofilm coverage of 95%, whereas the non-coated media had a biofilm coverage of about 70%. The research has demonstrated that the coated media has a four times higher surface area, thus saving as much as 50% of the aeration tank volume.
The Development of U-Learning Innovation to Promote Research Potential: Analysis by Advanced Statistics, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand
Authors:   Behavioral Science Research Institute, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand, Pattrawiwat Kanchana
Published: February 2024

Although the COVID-19 pandemic required teachers to adjust their teaching methods, there remains a lack of high-quality and inclusive instructional media for theoretical and practical content. This study analyzed the instructional management, design, and development of ubiquitous-learning (U-Learning) to promote the research potential: data analysis for advanced statistics course at Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand. The research participants were divided into three assessment groups: 10 graduate students, 5 statistics experts, and 20 course users. The qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis while the quantitative data were analyzed using arithmetic means and standard deviations. The study found that learning innovation (C-TAPE) was composed of five main components, namely, content, teaching, activity, practice, and evaluation. Additionally, the statistics experts and course users had the highest score for learning innovation efficiency among the assessment groups.
Tourism Industry Development Model through Support System Facilities, Stakeholder Participation, and Environmental Dynamism: Dealing with Post-Pandemic COVID-19 Approach
Authors:   Department of Industrial Engineering, Telkom University, Bandung, West Java, 40257, Indonesia, Achmad Fandi
Published: February 2024

This study aims to design a conceptual model that measures the tourism industry's performance in Indonesia by considering environmental dynamics due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This research uses an exploratory descriptive approach to designing a new conceptual model based on a literature review measuring Indonesia's tourism industry's performance. The research object in this study is SMEs in Rembang Regency, Central Java, one of the areas with potential tourism objects in Indonesia. The results of this study reveal the factors that affect the performance of the tourism industry, namely supporting systems and facilities, which include telecommunications, power sources, transportation, waste management, location, clean water sources, supporting industries, spatial, hospitality, safety and security; stakeholders and environmental dynamics. The government can consider these factors to produce a policy to develop the tourism industry.