bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensing that Something is Wrong: On the Role of Senses in Sensemaking in Frontline Safety Work
Authors: Midtlyng Grethe
Published: July 2024

Based on an ethnography of work in a high-security prison, this article explores how safety practitioners develop specialised sensing skills through close engagement with their socio-material work environment and how they use these skills in constructing their understandings of what is going on in everyday work. The results make visible the potential role of the senses in how workers keep systems running, how they maintain safety in situations where quick reactions are needed and for the fast transition to more deliberate forms of sensemaking for early intervention. However, despite the importance prison officers ascribed to the use of the senses for their ability to work proactively, certain technologies seemed to reduce access to sensory inputs and thereby the ability to notice weak signals. This indicate challenges regarding embodied and tacit safety knowledge when more visible representations of safety are implemented. The article aims to contribute to a theoretical framework for understanding the role of senses in safety work through the concept of sensemaking as an embodied, socio-material process.
Adult endocrinologists’ perspectives on transitioning adolescent patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia
Authors: Hall Mary-Frances E. , Kremen Jessica , Boskey Elizabeth R. , Tulimat Sam , Staffa Steven J. , Grimstad Frances
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The study aimed to evaluate adult endocrinologists’ perspectives on caring for patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) and views on their transition from pediatric to adult care.

Methods

An online survey was conducted among adult clinical endocrinologists at Harvard Medical School-affiliated hospitals from March to October 2022.

Results

Most participants (25/34, 73.5 %) treat patients with CAH and expressed moderate to high confidence (23/32, 71.9 %) in their care. Those that did not treat or accept referrals cited insufficient expertise, knowledge, and resources as reasons. Only half of respondents correctly answered at least 50 % of standard of care questions. The main transition of care barrier identified was the absence of standardized policies (12/34, 35.3 %).

Conclusions

Participants, though involved in care of patients with CAH, had varied responses to standard of care questions and transition of care barriers, emphasizing the need for standardized transition protocols and additional training to ensure up-to-date clinical knowledge.
Therapeutic strategies for primary heart involvement in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Batani Veronica , Dagna Lorenzo , De Luca Giacomo
Published: July 2024

Primary heart involvement (pHI) is frequent in systemic sclerosis (SSc), even though often underdiagnosed. SSc-pHI has been recently defined as cardiac abnormalities that are predominantly attributable to SSc rather than other causes and/or complications. SSc-pHI represents a major determinant of mortality in SSc, accounting alone for about 12% of disease-related deaths; its early recognition and promptly therapeutic interventions are therefore crucial. Both perfusion defects and myocardial inflammation contribute to the occurrence of myocardial fibrosis that precipitates myocardial remodeling, potentially leading to heart failure and arrhythmic complications. To date, clear evidence and guidelines for effectively managing SSc pHI are not established yet, resulting in a lack of a defined therapeutic algorithm. In this review we summarize the most recent scientific literature on the prevailing therapeutic strategies and interventions to manage SSc-pHI, with particular focus on therapeutic strategies to counteract the 3 major pathogenic events of the disease, i.e. microvascular damage, myocardial inflammation and myocardial fibrosis.
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in systemic sclerosis: Heart involvement in high-resolution
Authors: Fairley Jessica L , O’Rourke Rachael , Puranik Rajesh , Nikpour Mandana
Published: July 2024

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) is the gold-standard non-invasive method of assessing cardiac structure and function, including tissue characterisation. In systemic sclerosis (SSc), heart involvement (SHI) is a leading cause of mortality yet remains poorly understood. SHI is underestimated by conventional echocardiography, and CMR provides an important opportunity to better identify and quantify subtle myocardial changes including oedema and fibrosis. This review summarises current CMR techniques, the role of CMR in SSc and SHI, and the opportunities to further our understanding of its pathogenesis and management.
Biomarkers in the evaluation of cardiac involvement in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Masri Mohamad Fadhli Bin , Ng Sue-Ann , Chin Calvin WL , Low Andrea HL
Published: July 2024

Systemic sclerosis is a multisystemic disease for which the heart can be affected leading to cardiac complications and mortality. Up to 80% of patients with systemic sclerosis have cardiac involvement with varying levels of severity. Several molecules have been identified that can be used as markers of cardiac involvement. These biomarkers can arise directly from the heart due to cardiac damage from the disease such as cardiac troponins or from the underlying dysregulated immune process itself such as the proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-6. This review aims to summarize the evidence on currently known biomarkers that are can be diagnostic, prognostic or predictive of primary cardiac involvement in systemic sclerosis. We also highlight potential new biomarkers based on the current understanding of the disease process. Clinical use of these markers can benefit patients through earlier identification of those with cardiac involvement, many of whom can be asymptomatic in the early stage, with higher risk of complications, with the overall goal to improve outcomes of these affected patients.
Frequency of Spinal Pain Symptoms Among Nursing Staff
Authors: Dziedzic Beata , Archacka Aleksandra , Marcysiak Miłosz , Przylepa Katarzyna , Wysokiński Mariusz , Fidecki Wiesław
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Individuals working in the nursing profession are particularly prone to experiencing spinal discomfort. This is due to the nature of their work, which involves lifting and carrying heavy loads, as well as working in constrained positions. Furthermore, nurses are also exposed to stress and excessive mental health strain. All of these factors can contribute to the occurrence of overloads and injuries to the spine.
Aim. The aim of the study was to analyze the frequency of spinal pain symptoms among nursing staff.
Material and Methods. The study group consisted of 155 individuals actively practicing the nursing profession. The Polish version of the Revised Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Scale (OLBPDS-PL) and own questions were used to conduct the study.
Results. The frequency of spinal pain symptoms among nursing staff was 96.64%. 55.6% of the respondents reported mild disability, while 16.6% reported severe disability. A correlation was established between gender (p=0.026), the number of hours spent at work (p=0.049), BMI index (p=0.020), and the frequency of spinal pain symptoms. Age was borderline to statistically significant (0.050).
Conclusions. Spinal pain symptoms affect a significant portion of the studied group. Lower back pain worsens the daily functioning of nurses, primarily in terms of pain intensity, lifting objects, standing, and social life. Mild disability was observed in over half of the respondents with lower back pain symptoms. (JNNN 2024;13(1):3–8)
Evaluation of Psychomotor Development in Children Treated with Therapeutic Hypothermia
Authors: Kubisa Aneta , Rozensztrauch Anna , Janczak Dariusz , Paprocka-Borowicz Małgorzata
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Perinatal asphyxia is a common neonatal problem. It remains a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality and plays a major role in motor and intellectual developmental deficits in children. Complications of cerebral hypoxia in asphyxiated newborns can be treated with therapeutic hypothermia. The treatment involves moderate cooling of the newborn to minimize the consequences of hypoxia.
Aim. To evaluate psychomotor development and detect impairments and deficits in motor functions, perception, speech, manual functions and social contacts in children treated with therapeutic hypothermia.
Material and Methods. The study was carried out on a group of 27 children treated with therapeutic hypothermia. The data involved an analysis of medical records and the results of psychomotor development evaluation using the Munich Functional Development Diagnostics scale.
Results. We found no significant delay in the developmental age of the children for walking. The mean developmental age for this area was 30.56 months (SD=8.42 months), for fine motor skills, speaking, independence and social skills were similar. The mean developmental age for understanding speech was 28.76 months (SD=7.92 months). The mean developmental age for cognitive skills was 27.73 months (Me=28 months). The speech development was slightly delayed for their age (x̅=3.2 months, SD=1.09 months).
Conclusions. Children aged up to 1 year showed normal psychomotor development. Small deficits in cognitive processes and social skills were identified in children in the second and third years of life. The greatest developmental delays were identified in children in the fourth, fifth and sixth years of life. (JNNN 2024;13(1):9–16)
The Impact of Multimorbidity on the Functional Skills in Elderly People
Authors: Dziechciaż Małgorzata , Kudyba Piotr
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Multimorbidity is defined as the occurrence of two or more chronic diseases and is the most noticeable feature of an elderly person. With age, an increase in the incidence of chronic diseases is observed. Somatic diseases frequently co-occur with mental illnesses. In most cases, chronic diseases result in seniors’ disability. The most common ones include cardiovascular system, locomotor system, sight and hearing disorders; neurological and mental diseases; and mental impairments.
Aim. The aim of the paper was to assess the prevalence of multimorbidity in elderly people in their home environment and to determine the relationship between multimorbidity and seniors’ functional skills.
Material and Methods. The method of a diagnostic survey was applied, with the direct questionnaire technique. A questionnaire of the authors’ own construction was used, as well as standardized tools, i.e. the Barthel and the Lawton scales. The study involved 504 people aged 66–94 years staying in their home environment.
Results. Only 0.05% of the subjects did not report any disease. The average number of diseases was 2.98 (3.03 in women, 2.90 in men). A statistically significant correlation was found between the number of the declared diseases and the patients’ age (p<0.001). In addition, together with an increase in the number of diseases, a deterioration was observed in the results on the Barthel and Lawton scales (p<0.001), as well as in cognitive and emotional skills (p<0.001).
Conclusions. The vast majority of people aged over 65 years living in rural areas experienced multimorbidity; the following predominated among the diseases: hypertension, osteoarthritis, circulatory insufficiency, atherosclerosis, and diabetes mellitus. Together with an increase in the number of diseases, a deterioration was observed in the patients’ functional, cognitive, and emotional skills. (JNNN 2024;13(1):17–22)
Neuroticism/Negative Emotionality Is Associated with Increased Reactivity to Uncertain Threat in the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis, Not the Amygdala
Authors: Grogans Shannon E. , Hur Juyoen , Barstead Matthew G. , Anderson Allegra S. , Islam Samiha , Kim Hyung Cho , Kuhn Manuel , Tillman Rachael M. , Fox Andrew S. , Smith Jason F. , DeYoung Kathryn A. , Shackman Alexander J.
Published: July 2024

Neuroticism/negative emotionality (N/NE)—the tendency to experience anxiety, fear, and other negative emotions—is a fundamental dimension of temperament with profound consequences for health, wealth, and well-being. Elevated N/NE is associated with a panoply of adverse outcomes, from reduced socioeconomic attainment to psychiatric illness. Animal research suggests that N/NE reflects heightened reactivity to uncertain threat in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BST) and central nucleus of the amygdala (Ce), but the relevance of these discoveries to humans has remained unclear. Here we used a novel combination of psychometric, psychophysiological, and neuroimaging approaches to test this hypothesis in an ethnoracially diverse, sex-balanced sample of 220 emerging adults selectively recruited to encompass a broad spectrum of N/NE. Cross-validated robust-regression analyses demonstrated that N/NE is preferentially associated with heightened BST activation during the uncertain anticipation of a genuinely distressing threat (aversive multimodal stimulation), whereas N/NE was unrelated to BST activation during certain-threat anticipation, Ce activation during either type of threat anticipation, or BST/Ce reactivity to threat-related faces. It is often assumed that different threat paradigms are interchangeable assays of individual differences in brain function, yet this has rarely been tested. Our results revealed negligible associations between BST/Ce reactivity to the anticipation of threat and the presentation of threat-related faces, indicating that the two tasks are nonfungible. These observations provide a framework for conceptualizing emotional traits and disorders; for guiding the design and interpretation of biobank and other neuroimaging studies of psychiatric risk, disease, and treatment; and for refining mechanistic research.
Failures in Ukrainian Arms Procurement 2014–2023
Authors: Bukkvoll Tor
Published: July 2024

This article discusses critical failures in Ukrainian defense production and procurement in the period 2014 to 2023. The main puzzle is why Ukraine did so little to satisfy the needs of the country’s armed forces in essential segments of military capabilities when there seems to have been no disagreement on their necessity. Furthermore, both technological and financial resources appear to have been present. The main argument is that Ukraine’s status as a limited access order (LAO) is an important part of the explanation. The empirical evidence in support of this conclusion comes from process-tracing production and procurement in the three areas of ammunition, unmanned aerial vehicles, and armored vehicles. The initial condition of an LAO is linked to the outcome of production and procurement failure through a detailed investigation of the actors and processes that took place within each of the mentioned segments. It is primarily a theory-guided single-outcome study, but the findings may serve as inspiration for more generic studies of the effects of LAOs on national security.
Photoconductivity of functionalized carbon nanotubes
Authors:   Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University, Baku, Azerbaijan,, Abaszade R. G. , Mammadov A. G. ,   Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University, Baku, Azerbaijan,, Khanmamedova E. A. ,   Azerbaijan State Oil and Industry University, Baku, Azerbaijan,, Aliyev F. G. ,   Azerbaijan University of Architecture and Construction, Baku, Azerbaijan, Kotsyubynsky V. O. ,   Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Ivano-Frankivsk, Kyiv, Ukraine, Gür E. ,   Eskisehir Osmangazi University, Eskisehir 26040, Turkey, Soltabayev B. D. ,   Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan 010000, Astana, Kazakstan, Margitich T.O. ,   Kyiv Institute for Nuclear Research, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, 03680, Kyiv, Ukraine, Stetsenko M. O. ,   Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Devices and Systems of Ministry of Education and Guangdong Province, College of Physics and Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, 518060, Shenzhen, PR China, Singh A. ,   Department of Physics, University of Jammu, Jammu 180006, India, Arya S. ,   Department of Physics, University of Jammu, Jammu 180006, India
Published: July 2024

Investigation of carbon nanotubes is a modern trend due to their combination of unique physical, chemical, electrical, and optical properties. Carboxyl-functionalized carbon nanotubes (fCNTs) for investigation of photoelectrical properties were synthesized. The photo-sensitivity spectra of a carboxyl-functionalized CNT sample for voltage range from 1 to 9 V, and for the spectral range from 400 to 900 nm were investigated. The voltage equal to 1 V generated lower photosensitivity in the broadband wavelength range for visible to near-infrared. The most efficient photocurrents of fCNTs were received for a voltage of 5 V in the wavelength range λp~400-800 nm and for voltage U=3V in the broadband spectral range λp~400-900 nm. The experimental data analysis helped to determine the widest photosensitivity range, as well as the highest sensitivity value. As result, the voltage U=5V was obtained. Here, the most significant photocurrent peak with Ip~2.67 μA for wavelength λ~720 nm was observed. A comparison between the photosensitivity spectra of fCNTs and pure CNTs shows that the photosensitivity of fCNTs has increased significantly. Thus, the maximum photosensitivity for fCNTs is Ip ~ 2.67 μA, and for pure CNTs, it equals Ip ~ 0.185 μA. A 14-fold enhancement of photosensitivity for fCNT has been registered. The mathematical analysis of spectral dependencies of generated photocurrents under different applied voltages can be described using fourth-order polynomials. The I-V characteristics for wavelengths 760 nm and 780 nm have the same trend with the shift of photocurrent maximum to the lower parameters of voltage. The carboxyl-functionalized nanotubes can be effectively used as light detectors and in optoelectronic applications.
Cu2O/ZnFe2O4 nanorod photoelectrode for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Singha T. ,   Faculty of Science, Energy, and Environment, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Rayong Campus, Rayong 21120, Thailand, Kansa-ard T. , Wannapop S. , Somdee A. ,   Faculty of Science, Energy, and Environment, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Rayong Campus, Rayong 21120, Thailand,   Faculty of Science, Energy, and Environment, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Rayong Campus, Rayong 21120, Thailand,   Faculty of Science, Energy, and Environment, King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok, Rayong Campus, Rayong 21120, Thailand
Published: July 2024

Photoelectrochemical water splitting is a promising technology for H2 generation via water splitting reaction using the semiconductor material. In this research, the ZnFe2O4/Cu2O nanorod was investigated. The products were synthesized by the electrochemical deposition method. The characteristics of materials were investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and UV-visible spectroscopy. All materials exhibited the ptype photoelectrode characteristic. The performance of photoelectrochemical electrodes was studied by linear swept voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and Mott-Schottky analysis. The best condition deposition was by applying -0.4 V and 10 min. The highest photocurrent density was 0.8 mA.cm-2 at -0.5 (vs. Ag/AgCl) bias voltage.
Thickness influences on nanostructured MnO thin films, physical properties and sensing performance
Authors: Jabbar A. M. ,   Department of Physics, College of Science, Mustansiriyah University, Iraq, Hadi E. H. , Chiad S. S. , Habubi N. F. , Hussein K. N. , Kadhim Y. H. , Jadan M. ,   Department of Physics, College of Education, Mustansiriyah University, Iraq,   Department of Physics, College of Education, Mustansiriyah University, Iraq,   Department of Radiology and Sonar Techniques, Alnukhba University College,Baghdad 10013, Iraq,   Department of Radiology, Al-Manara College for Medical Science, Iraq,   Department of Optics Techniques, College of Haelth and Medical Techniques, AL-Mustaqbal University, Babylon, Hillah, 51001, Iraq,   Department of Physics, College of Science, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, 31441 Dammam, Saudi Arabia,   Basic and Applied Scientific Research Center, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, P.O. Box 1982, 31441 Dammam, Saudi Arabia
Published: July 2024

This work employed the chemical bath deposition (CBD) technique to fabricate a thin layer of nanostructured MnO. According to XRD measurements, the films have a cubic crystal structure and are polycrystalline, with orientations of (111, 200, 311, and 222), with (200) being the preferred orientation. Although the dislocation density parameters (100.46 to 80.36) and strain decreased from 34.75 to 31.08 and 34.75 to 100.36, respectively, the grain size was largest at (200) nm film thickness and lowest at (300) nm thickness. The deposited films exhibited a smooth surface topography as evidenced by the average surface roughness dropping from 8.70 nm to 4.27 nm, the average particle size observed to be 82.8 nm to 39.2 nm, and a reduction in root mean square (rms) values from 6.82 nm to 3.09 nm in the AFM images. Nanostructured MnO films exhibit a variety of grain morphologies, polycrystalline structure, and uniformity in SEM images. Their optical properties were measured in the 300–900 nm wavelength range. The extinction coefficient ranged from 0.368 to 0.276, whereas the computed refractive indices of the films with varying thicknesses fell between 3.6 and 2.95. The transmittance ranged between 86 and 81% in the VIS-NIR region with a band gap between 3.24 and 3.13 eV, and it was found that the absorption and absorption coefficient increased with film thickness. The thickness of MnO reduces its sensitivity to H2S gas.
A robust superhydrophobic coating of SER/ ZnO/MWCNTs with high corrosion resistance was prepared by one-step spraying method
Authors: Liang F. H. ,   School of Materials Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou, 213001, P. R. China, Mao F. F. , Li C. Q. , Ou J. F , Li W. , Wang F. J. , Amirfazli A. ,   School of Materials Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou, 213001, P. R. China,   School of Materials Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou, 213001, P. R. China,   School of Materials Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou, 213001, P. R. China,   School of Materials Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou, 213001, P. R. China,   School of Materials Engineering, Jiangsu University of Technology, Changzhou, 213001, P. R. China,   Department of Mechanical Engineering, York University, Toronto, ON, M3J 1P3, Canada
Published: July 2024

Multifunctional integration is the basic feature of artificial superhydrophobic coatings widely used in many fields. This paper presents a simple and economical experimental method to prepare a super hydrophobic coating with super strong corrosion resistance by spraying a mixed solution composed of epoxy resin (EP) as the base, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), sericite (SER), nano-zinc oxide (ZnO) and octadecyl trimethoxysilane (ODTMS) on an aluminum substrate. Firstly, the superhydrophobic property of the coating prepared in this experiment is better than that of the ordinary coating, and its contact angle reaches 167.3° and rolling angle is as low as 2.7°. Secondly, the superhydrophobic coating can not only maintain the superhydrophobic property in harsh environment (such as: soaking in boiling water for 10 hours, soaking in acid, alkali and salt solution for 7 days, high temperature, burning and strong ultraviolet irradiation, etc.), but also can withstand a variety of mechanical damage without losing the superhydrophobic property (such as: 1000 sandpaper wear cycles, 100 tape stripping cycles and 1000 g grit sustained impact). In addition, the excellent non-wettability of superhydrophobic coating can make it have excellent performance in the field of selfcleaning and anti-fouling. It is worth mentioning that the electrochemical workstation experiment proved that the coating also has good corrosion resistance, and the anticorrosion efficiency reached 99.924%. This strong superhydrophobic coating has many functions, such as self-cleaning, antifouling and corrosion prevention, and will have good application prospects in many fields in the future.
Isolation, Production Optimization, and Purification of a Debittering Enzyme from Bacillus megaterium AULS 1
Authors: Devi G. Nandhini , Sangavi G. , Chakravarthy M. , Sweetlin J. Louis
Published: July 2024

Bitterness in citrus juice is a common quality issue in the fruit-based beverage industry. Naringin, the dominant flavonoid responsible for bitterness in citrus fruit juice, can be mitigated by the enzyme naringinase. This study focuses on the isolation of novel

naringinase-producing bacterium from mandarin orange peel, followed by the production

and partial purification of naringinase. The bacterial strain exhibiting the highest enzyme

production potential was identified as Bacillus megaterium AULS 1. The effects of carbon source (naringin) concentration, inducer (naringenin), pH, and temperature on naringinase production were investigated. Optimized conditions yielded a maximum naringinase production of 386.43 U mL–1. The produced enzyme was partially purified using

ammonium sulfate precipitation and dialysis. The effects of pH, temperature, and metal

ion concentration on the activity of the partially purified enzyme were evaluated, resulting in a highest activity of naringinase of 539.25 U mL–1 under optimized conditions. The debittering activity of the partially purified enzyme was 45.78 %. These findings demonstrate that Bacillus megaterium AULS 1 has the potential for naringinase production, and can be utilized for debittering citrus juices.
Determining the Optimum Temperature Path Versus the Catalyst Working Time in a Trickle Bed Diesel Hydrodesulfurization Reactor
Authors: Homayonfar Hamid Reza , Ebrahim Habib Ale , Azarhoosh Mohammad Javad
Published: July 2024

This study consists of four main parts. First, a heterogeneous reactor model was developed to simulate a diesel hydrodesulfurization (HDS) reactor with catalyst deactivation. Second, operating conditions were investigated. Third, the simulation results from the first part were modeled using the response surface method and artificial neural networks (ANNs) to shorten the temperature path optimization time. Among the different modeling methods, the feed-forward ANN method employing the Bayesian Regularization (BR) training method with 10 neurons in the hidden layer demonstrated the highest accuracy. Finally, the temperature path of the trickle bed reactor was optimized. A three-dimensional curve depicting sulfur output content versus temperature and catalyst operation time was plotted using the most effective ANN approach as a fitness function. When the sulfur content met the Euro-6 requirement, the temperature path versus catalyst working period was optimized.
Role of Computational Modeling in the Design and Development of Nanotechnology-based Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Mikayilov Elsevar , Zeynalov Nizami , Taghiyev Dilgam , Taghiyev Shamil
Published: July 2024

Nanoparticle formulation development for drug delivery, a crucial aspect of nanotechnology, encounters numerous challenges. These encompass selecting appropriate excipients, comprehending miscibility and solubility factors, ensuring efficient drug encapsulation and release, assessing stability, and facilitating drug transport in the bloodstream for accurate targeting and attachment. To address these intricate issues, a range of molecular computational models is utilized. These models include quantum mechanical simulations that handle the smallest particles and move through atomistic molecular dynamics for detailed molecular interactions, coarse-grained molecular dynamics (MD) for larger scale phenomena, and dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) for mesoscale modeling. Further scaling up, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is used for fluidic behaviors, discrete element modeling for large particle systems, and both pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) and physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling for whole-body dynamics. These methodologies play a crucial role in elucidating the complex mechanisms involved in the development of nanoparticle formulations and are essential in the creation of varied organic and inorganic systems for drug delivery. This review primarily concentrates on these computational simulation models and their significance in the context of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems.
Decolorization of Wastewater from Pulp and Paper Industry by Adsorption on Talc
Authors: Šoltýsová Nikola , Jurík Jakub , Zakhar Ronald , Derco Ján
Published: July 2024

This study focuses on the elimination of residual dyes from industrial wastewater using talc as an adsorbent. Talc is an easily available, ecological, and inexpensive adsorbent. The adsorption process was tested on two model dye samples (Ecozol Blue LR Liquid and Cartasol Yellow 3GF Direct Yellow 132), and two samples of real wastewater from the pulp and paper industry (PM and TP). Kinetic studies revealed that the adsorption of Ecozol Blue LR Liquid followed pseudo-second-order kinetics, while the other tested samples followed pseudo-first-order kinetics. Langmuir, Freundlich, and Dubinin-Radushkevich adsorption isotherm models were also evaluated. The Langmuir isotherm model best fitted the experimental data for the adsorption of model dye solutions and wastewater sample TP onto talc. For wastewater sample PM, the Dubinin-Radushkevich isotherm model provided the best fit to the experimental data. The results of the adsorption isotherms indicated that the adsorption of all tested systems was favorable and primarily involved physical adsorption. The adsorption efficiency for the model solutions exceeded 90 %. For real wastewater samples, the monitored adsorption efficiency in the COD pollution indicator was less efficient, ranging from 43 to 51 %. The lower efficiency of COD may have resulted from the adsorption of residual dyes with lower specific COD values before the adsorption of other organics.
Morte por causa indeterminada: estudo dos laudos necroscópicos no Instituto Médico Legal de Vera Cruz, Bahia
Authors: Santiago Pinto de Almeida Natália , Fiscina de Figueiredo Nathália , Conceição de Mello Andrade Adriana , Avena Katia de Miranda
Published: July 2024

Nem sempre a causa mortis é estabelecida imediatamente após a necropsia. Não havendo definição imediata, considera-se como óbito por causa indeterminada. A elucidação da causa mortis possui relevância tanto no cenário jurídico, quanto no estabelecimento de políticas públicas. Nesse contexto, esse estudo objetivou analisar as mortes por causa indeterminada no Instituto Médico Legal de Vera Cruz/Bahia, no período de junho/2018 a dezembro/2019, além de descrever o perfil epidemiológico, as alterações necroscópicas macroscópicas, os exames solicitados e o cenário do óbito. Foi realizado um estudo observacional, retrospectivo, analisando características sociodemográficas, achados necroscópicos, exames solicitados e suspeita de violência. No período estudado, foram investigados 314 óbitos, sendo 11,8% por causa indeterminada. Nestes, verificou-se idade de 41,6+18,0 anos, predomínio de homens (75,7%), pardos (51,3%), solteiros (51,3%), de profissão ignorada (24,3%), cujo óbito ocorreu em domicílio (37,9%) ou hospital (35,1%). Constatou-se que 35,1% tinham suspeita de causa externa, por envenenamento (46,2%) ou afogamento (23,0%); 59,4% realizaram exames, predominando os toxicológicos (72,7%); 59,4% tiveram lesões, principalmente secreção nasal sanguinolenta (35,3%); e 45,9% dos corpos já estavam em putrefação. Esse estudo sugere que o quantitativo de mortes por causa indeterminada pode ser reflexo da alta demanda por necrópsias em indivíduos falecidos por prováveis causas naturais e ao avançado estado de putrefação dos corpos. Acredita-se que a implantação do sistema de verificação de óbito neste município contribua para a otimização desse cenário, favorecendo a diminuição dos óbitos por causas mal definidas.
Cross-Recurrence Quantification Of Cardiovascular Signals In Newborns Is A Sensitive Marker Of Health Status
Authors: Skazkina Viktoria V. , Mureeva Elena N. , Ishbulatov Yuri M. , Prokhorov Mikhail D. , Karavaev Anatoly S. , Hramkov Aleksey N. , Ezhov Dmitry M. , Kurbako Alexander V. , Panina Olga S. , Chernenkov Yuri V. , Kiselev Anton R.
Published: July 2024

Background — Analysis of the state of complex biological systems requires the use of sensitive methods for diagnosing interactions using experimental time series. Objective — To evaluate the possibility of using the technique of cross-recurrence quantification (CRQ) in studying the health status of newborns using low-frequency components of RR-interval signals and photoplethysmograms, reflecting the dynamics of the circuits in autonomic regulation of blood circulation. Methods — The study included two groups of neonates: 10 full-term newborns and 10 preterm neonates. We carried out simultaneous recording of electrocardiographic and photoplethysmographic signals. CRQ analysis was employed as the primary tool. Results — We established that some indices of CRQ analysis, characterizing the degree of interaction of the studied circuits, act as sensitive markers. They make it possible to distinguish the dynamics of the studied contours between healthy newborns and preterm neonates. Conclusion — The results of our study confirmed that CRQ is a promising tool in creating methods for diagnosing health conditions, including in newborns.
Comparison Of Rapid Antigen Test With RT-PCR For COVID-19 Diagnosis: Performance And Limitation
Authors: Ahsan Ali , Shabbir Chaudhry Ahmed , Qadeer Muhammad Abdul , Rafiq Aleeha , Yaseen Adnan , Ali Mohammad Shaokat , Ahmad Ishtiaq
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly impacted healthcare systems worldwide, necessitating the development of rapid and accurate diagnostic tools. The study aimed to compare the performance of a Rapid Antigen Test (RAK) with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for COVID-19 diagnosis, considering its global usage, promising data, and the convenience of using saliva samples. Methods — A cross-sectional, single-blinded study was conducted in Lahore, Pakistan, using 7,580 samples collected between May 2021 and June 2022. Three hundred twenty samples were tested with RAK and RT-PCR using logistic regression analysis to look at sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy and whether there was a link between RAK results and RT-PCR cycle threshold values. Results — Overall, the RAK demonstrated 67% sensitivity and 75% specificity. Likelihood ratios were 2.71 (positive) and 0.43 (negative). The disease prevalence was 70.00%. PPV and NPV were 86.36% and 50.00%, respectively. Logistic regression showed a significant association between RAK results and RT-PCR CT values (odds ratio=6.333). Kit sensitivity varied by viral load: 100% at CT≤20, 63% at CT 21-25, and 22% at CT>26. Conclusion — This study would provide an insight to the work efficiency of commercially used rapid antigen based COVID-19 screening kit.
Отражение прошлого и метаморфозы настоящего в романе Саши Филипенко Кремулятор
Authors:   Uniwersytet im. Adama Mickiewicza w Poznaniu, Królikiewicz Natalia
Published: July 2024

The article is an attempt at a deeper reading of the various levels of the diary kept by the novel’s main character, Peter Nesterenko, whose fate forms the basis of the plot. The writer’s skilful use of the documentary narrative method helps to decipher the events in the life of a real person, a white officer who, in 1927, headed up the first Moscow crematorium and eventually fell into the cogs of the repression machine. The historical material collected (investigation files, archival documents, quotations), the artistically significant composition of the work (the novel is constructed in the form of six interrogations interspersed with fragments of the protagonist’s diaries), the way the diary is addressed and its wide range of possible functions allow us to better understand not only the times of repression, the ‘inconvenient past’ (Nikolai Eple), but also provides opportunities to draw contemporary socio-political parallels to modern Russia.
Uključivi dizajn korisničkog iskustva mrežnih stranica za osobe starije životne dobi
Authors: Maurus Ena , Selthofer Josipa
Published: July 2024

Cilj. U radu se analizira oblikovanje korisničkog sučelja digitalnog proizvoda s aspekta uključivog dizajna i korisničkog iskustva namijenjenog osobama starije životne dobi (65+ godina).
Metodologija. Istraživanje je provedeno od 1. do 13. kolovoza 2023. godine koristeći online anketni upitnik među skupinom ljudi starije životne dobi objavljen na društvenim mrežama.
Rezultati. Istraživanje je pokazalo kako se osobe starije životne dobi u velikoj mjeri služe mobilnim uređajima u svrhu pregledavanja sadržaja na društvenim mrežama, praćenja vijesti i komunikacije. Ispitanici imaju dobru razinu samopouzdanja pri interakciji na korisničkim sučeljima, a neki od problema koje su naveli pri korištenju digitalnih usluga i proizvoda bili su nedovoljno istaknuti elementi na sučelju, nemogućnost prilagodbe elemenata tipografije, slab kontrast boje i dr. Pomagala i pomoćne tehnologije koje ispitanici koriste pri interakciji u mrežnom okruženju jesu glasovne naredbe i povećalo za zaslon. Ispitanicima je najviše potrebna pomoć pri registraciji i objavljivanju slikovnih sadržaja na društvenim mrežama (Facebook), pri prvom posjetu mrežnoj stranici, slanju poruka, nemogućnosti navigacije na stranici, instaliranju novih aplikacija, upotrebi stranih jezika, uključivanju GPS-a ili internetskom bankarstvu.
Ograničenja. Ispitanici, sudionici u istraživanju, uglavnom su iz Osječko-baranjske županije, pa nisu reprezentativan uzorak na razini RH.
Praktična primjena. Teorijske spoznaje i rezultati provedenog istraživanja doprinose boljem razumijevanju komponenti uključivog dizajna korisničkih sučelja, osobito za specifične grupe korisnika.
Društveni značaj. Rad doprinosi povećanju svijesti o važnosti prilagodbe digitalnih proizvoda i usluga korisnicima, napose osobama starije životne dobi.
Originalnost. Rad donosi rezultate jednog od rijetkih istraživanja o uključivom dizajnu među osobama starije životne dobi i doprinosi povećanju svijesti o potrebi inkluzije u virtualnom okruženju.
Hacia el liderazgo de la mujer en la empresa familiar
Authors: Fernández Cortés María Jesús
Published: July 2024

Este estudio aborda la participación de mujeres en empresas familiares de segunda generación en España, centrándose en las dinámicas de género y liderazgo. Se explora cómo factores culturales y estructurales influyen en la experiencia de las mujeres en su búsqueda de roles de liderazgo en este contexto.La investigación está basada en un estudio cualitativo con entrevistas semiestructuradas realizadas a 26 mujeres en su mayoría hijas del fundador en empresas familiares españolas. Estas empresas se encuentran en la segunda generación, con el fundador o patriarca jubilado o bien ya fallecido. La encuesta abordó temas de ascenso, poder, discriminación de género y percepciones de liderazgo, analizando patrones y tendencias en las respuestas.A pesar del cambio gradual hacia la inclusión de mujeres en roles de liderazgo empresarial, persisten desigualdades de poder y de ascenso. Los estereotipos de género influyen en la asignación de tareas, afectando la confianza y autoevaluación de las mujeres. En el estudio se perciben diferencias entre hombres y mujeres, evidenciando discriminación laboral basada en género. Entre las barreras se encuentra una cultura empresarial que subestima las contribuciones femeninas, así como una falta de flexibilidad para conciliar responsabilidades familiares. A pesar de esto, las mujeres desafían los valores tradicionales siendo de vital importancia su empoderamiento. Se percibe un cambio positivo hacia la inclusión de mujeres en roles de liderazgo en estas empresas. Es fundamental abordar los obstáculos culturales y estructurales para promover la igualdad de género a través de políticas de igualdad, programas de liderazgo y diversidad en la alta dirección. La participación femenina en el liderazgo beneficia lacultura y el rendimiento de la empresa y contribuye a su modernización y sostenibilidad.
Los intentos de internacionalización del feminismo español en el primer tercio del siglo XX: Las relaciones de las mujeres españolas con la IWSA, el ICW y la WILPF
Authors: Blasco Lisa Sandra , Lara Laura
Published: July 2024

Conocer las aportaciones de las mujeres a las organizaciones internacionales de mujeres y a la política internacional ha sido un empeño historiográfico de la investigación de género y feminista en los últimos años en Europa. Este artículo se inserta en esta linea de trabajo y tiene como objetivo realizar un balance historiográfico de las investigaciones realizadas en torno a las mujeres españolas y sus conexiones con el movimiento internacional de mujeres en el primer tercio de siglo XX. En concreto, se repasan las aportaciones que han trabajado las relaciones del sufragismo español con el Consejo internacional de mujeres (ICW), la Alianza Internacional por el sufragio de la mujer (IWSA) y la Liga Internacional de mujeres por la paz y la libertad (WILPF). Se señalan las fortalezas de estos trabajos, su interés historiográfico y se sugieren aspectos sobre los que seguir investigando en el futuro.
Trabajadoras mexicanas indocumentadas en California: redes para afrontar duelo migratorio
Authors: Bandrés Goldáraz Elena
Published: July 2024

Esta investigación explora las estrategias de resistencia emocional de mujeres inmigrantes indocumentadas en California, Estados Unidos, que llevan entre doce y treinta y tres años viviendo en el país. A pesar de su invisibilidad legal y ciudadana y a pesar de su ausencia en las narrativas migratorias donde el hombre sigue siendo la referencia, estas mujeres tienen vidas plenas, sueños y proyectos vitales no incorporados en el discurso académico. Método: Mediante entrevistas a once participantes, se aplica y desarrolla una Teoría Fundamentada Constructivista para intentar comprender los mecanismos de supervivencia en un territorio hostil debido a la falta de papeles que legalicen su vida en EE. UU. Una metodología enmarcada en la investigación cualitativa donde, a partir de los datos obtenidos, se crean categorías necesarias para explicar el objeto investigado y ofrecer soluciones. Conclusiones: Se averigua que la esperanza de brindar un mejor futuro a sus hijos e hijas y la construcción de redes de amistad con otras mujeres, respaldadas por Organizaciones de la Sociedad Civil, son fundamentales para afrontar el miedo permanente a la deportación y para poder superar el estrés traumático que muchas afirman seguir viviendo. Esta malla social se incrusta también en las organizaciones de la sociedad civil (OSC) en las que no sólo reciben ayuda, sino que les sirve como soporte para su propio desarrollo personal e intelectual al generar sinergias y recursos que obtienen de manera altruista. También les ayuda a sobrellevar el doble duelo migratorio, al no poder volver a México para ver a sus familiares. Es también altruista la dedicación de estas mujeres al voluntariado social por lo que la participación en la esfera pública, paradójicamente, a pesar de no tener papeles es cada vez mayor.
Empoderamiento para una vida libre de violencia: análisis de un programa social dirigido a mujeres en situación vulnerable
Authors: Ovalle Magallanes Myriam , Rangel Bernal Laura
Published: July 2024

Uno de los problemas más apremiantes que impide a las mujeres ejercer plenamente sus derechos es la violencia que muchas de ellas sufren cotidianamente. Para contrarrestar esta situación se implementan en México diversos programas sociales. El objetivo de este artículo es analizar la operación del Programa de Apoyo a Instancias de Mujeres de las Entidades Federativas (PAIMEF) a través de las Unidades Móviles de atención/orientación para valorar si el trabajo de dichas unidades asegura el cumplimiento del objetivo general del programa, que es empoderar para una vida libre de violencia a las mujeres que se encuentran en esta situación. Se buscó comprender cómo estas unidades abordan la violencia contra las mujeres, examinando la percepción de las y los profesionales que trabajan en ellas y analizando sus resultados y limitaciones. Para ello se empleó una metodología cualitativa que incluyó análisis documental, así como trabajo de campo que consistió en la realización de entrevistas a informantes clave. Se concluye que, aunque el análisis realizado muestra que las unidades cumplen con orientar y sensibilizar, se señala la falta de acciones concretas para empoderar plenamente a las usuarias. Problemas como la evaluación basada en cifras, la rotación constante del personal y la falta de seguimiento afectan la calidad de la atención. Se sugieren mejoras, incluyendo programas de capacitación, retención de personal y un enfoque educativo integral para promover el empoderamiento, igualdad de género y la erradicación de la violencia contra las mujeres. Por último, se destaca la necesidad de realizar más investigaciones que analicen la relación entre la legislación existente, las instituciones encargadas de su implementación a través de programas sociales y los resultados obtenidos en la prevención y atención de la violencia contra las mujeres.
From Concept to Code: A Two-Day Workshop for Secondary Students on Computational Thinking and Programming
Authors: STEINERT Felix , KUMMER Julia , LANDMAN Martina , LEHNER Lukas
Published: July 2024

Introducing programming and informatics concepts to the next generation of computer
scientists is essential. This experience report presents a detailed overview of a two-day informatics workshop for 134 Austrian school kids, ages eleven to thirteen. The workshop program consists of several unplugged activities about algorithms, AI, robotics and coding and block-based programming using Scratch and Sphero BOLT. We evaluated feedback from 110 participants regarding their experience of these two days. Many children reported a significant gain in knowledge. We will also explain the pupils’ favourite activities and educational concepts in detail. This report also covers the experience of the ten workshop leaders of the past two days. The workshop was widely positive received and the participants reported a high interest in computer science.
Evaluating the benefit of medical adjustment on the predictive accuracy of the revised trauma index
Authors: Obayan Adebola , Igwenagu Ifunanya , Gaboury Jeffery
Published: July 2024

In the early 1970s, data from emergency trauma units was used to develop the trauma index (TI) as a triage tool for non-physicians. Over the next two decades several modifications were made to the TI, and in 1990 a revised trauma index (RTI) was published. Throughout the 1990s, modifications to the RTI concerning pre-existing medical conditions (PEC) have been studied. Our study incorporated a PEC scoring system into the RTI, and evaluated its performance against using the RTI alone. The addition of PECs to the trauma index improved its accuracy in predicting overall outcome as shown by the increase in the kappa score from 0.42 to 0.73. Based on this finding, we suggest incorporating a PEC scoring system into the revised trauma index to better predict patient outcomes.