bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case of severe Covid-19 infection as the first manifestation of Cushing’s disease
Authors: Guia Lopes Maria Leonor , Cidade José Pedro , Antunes Carolina , Limbert Clotilde , Sequeira Duarte João
Published: October 2024

Cushing's disease (CD) is characterized by distinct syndromic features, often accompanied by obesity and depression. However, considering its gradual onset of symptoms, it is usually associated with diagnostic delays. In rare instances, CD may lead to severe infections due to the observed immunosuppression in affected individuals. We present a rare case of an undiagnosed CD in a 20-year-old male with a medical history of depression and obesity, complicated by severe COVID-19 infection. He presented to the Emergency Room with respiratory distress, hypertensive crisis, and fever, ultimately receiving the diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. The patient required mechanical ventilation and intensive care unit (ICU) admission due to severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). During ICU care, he received remdesivir and dexamethasone, subsequently developing severe hyperglycemia and worsened hypertension, requiring insulin and multiple antihypertensive agents to manage metabolic disruption. Upon physical examination, classic signs of hypercortisolism were noted. Subsequent laboratory tests and pituitary magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the diagnosis of CD. The patient underwent surgical resection with significant improvements in body composition and metabolic parameters postoperatively. After surgery, remission of hypercortisolism was evident, accompanied by notable improvements in mood and overall health. This case underscores the importance of recognizing hypercortisolism in the context of metabolic, physical, and mood changes. Timely diagnosis of CD is crucial to mitigate complications such as severe opportunistic infections and their outcomes.

Learning points

Despite some hallmark features such as proximal myopathy, easy bruising, purple striae, and facial plethora, Cushing’s disease (CD) is a challenging diagnosis due to its nonspecific signs and symptoms and gradual onset.

The case emphasizes the importance of recognizing subtle signs of CD, such as social isolation, depressive symptoms, and changes in body composition, which may be confounded by external factors like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Patients with CD are prone to severe infections due to chronic hypercortisolism-induced immunosuppression.

CD diagnostic delays are common, leading to worsening of metabolic and immune dysfunction over time. Heightened clinical suspicion and early intervention are essential to prevent diagnostic delays and optimize patient outcomes.
Corrosion behavior of austenitic and ferritic steels in alkaline and water-salt solutions
Authors: Kniazieva Hanna , Kniaziev Sergey , Tomashevskyi Roman , Kanunnikova Nadia , Vorobiov Bohdan , Shestopalov Oleksii , Sakun Antonina
Published: October 2024

The paper presents the results of studies of the corrosion behavior of austenitic and ferritic steels in alkaline, sulfide, and chloride environments. Structural changes on the surface when the steels are kept in solutions at room temperature are shown. The chemical composition of the steels was determined, and the exact phase-structural composition was theoretically predicted and metallographically determined. It was found that austenitic steel is almost not subject to sulfide corrosion at room temperature and chlorine-containing substances. At the same time, ferritic steel, under the same conditions, has significant corrosion damage on the surface, especially in places of mechanical damage.
Comprensión del ecumenismo a partir del decreto Unitatis Redintegratio, Yves Congar y Walter Kasper
Authors: Cadavid Vélez Ángela Patricia , Muñóz Hincapié Jorge Henry , Gálvez Salazar Adrián Humberto
Published: October 2024

The decree Unitatis Redintegratio on ecumenism, as interpreted by Cardinals Yves Congar and Walter Kasper, serves as a source of inspiration aimed at seeking the unity of the Church. The major challenges faced by the churches are rooted in the understanding of unity, dialogue, openness, and participation in terms of equality and fraternity. Priests, pastors, leaders, laypeople, and all those responsible for any form of leadership must keep in mind that the commitment to building a path forward necessarily involves letting go of preconceived notions and adopting an attitude of listening to others in their truth.
Hermenéutica de la identidad humana de Jesús
Authors: Giraldo Molina Juan Camilo
Published: October 2024

The article explores the humanity of Jesus from a theological and sociological perspective. The author challenges traditional positions that exalt the divinity of Jesus to the detriment of his humanity, and argues that his message is deeply linked to social commitment. Through the analysis of biblical texts and philosophical reflections, Jesus is presented as a revolutionary who reveals divinity through his humanity, highlighting the importance of social justice and the transformation of the material world.
Lithuanian historical conception according to Ignas Onacevičius
Authors: Šidlauskas Algirdas
Published: October 2024

We know nothing about the manuscript of „Lithuanian History" written by l. Onacevičius, but how he understood history can be understood from his letter to Teodoras Narbutas. In these letters was formed not only his advice to the author of „Lithuanian Nation History," but, as became clear to l. Onacevičius, Lithuanian historical conception as well. According to his opinion, there must be a separate volume for mythology. He was sorry, that there was no list of names nor places. He also articulated his opinion about the rights of the Grand Dukes. According to l. Onacevičius' opinion, until the end of the 14th century Grand Dukes had absolute power, and only in the time of Jogaila did the power of noblemen come into existence. l. Onacevičius explained that the nobility's freedom existed in documents, but not in real life. In general, there was no big difference in Lithuania between estates, until the wedding of Jogaila with the Polish queen; this is when the union between Lithuania and Poland began.
It seems that l. Onacevičius was also worried about cultural historical problems. He wrote that in the beginning of Žygimantas Augustas' rule, Mykolas Lietuvis was the first to show the Lithuanian cultural condition. He was sorry that it was impossible to find out any news about Mykolas Lietuvis and, because of this, could not say his real name. l. Onacevičius pointed out that in the time of Žygimantas Augustas, a group of the Samogitians were pagans. In general, the conditions of life were poor, because Lithuanian nobles were against the enlargement of science, trade, and handicraft. Onacevičius' point of view of history is very similar to that of Joachirnas Lelevelis' historical understanding. It is possible to say that both historians of Vilnius estimated Lithuania's past very similarly.
Historical reality and „understanding" the hermeneutical approach
Authors: Dubnikas Kęstutis
Published: October 2024

The contemporary philosophy of historiography widely discusses a problem of the cognitive claims. The article, following H. G. Gadamer's hermeneutical philosophy and D. Tracy's theory of "classics," dwells on an elaboration of the methodological distinction between, firstly, historical knowledge and secondly, an understanding of history.
Historicism argues that history must be intelligible in the sense that it is so made by historians. From the hermeneutical point of view, conversely, the individual self-consciousness cannot be constituted neither along the lines of Cartesian Ego, nor along the lines of the Enlightenment's understanding of a totally autonomous Ego. The historian is necessarily a historical being himself; he/she is deeply rooted in a concrete historical context. Both the historical consciousness and reality are mutually correlated. Historical facts, events or "classics" carry a complex plexus of life experiences and, thus, acquire a certain permanence of meaning which, in turn, could be itself interpreted as a result of analogical imagination.
Politinio mąstymo metmenys Immanuelio Kanto kritinėje filosofijoje
Authors: Ivanauskas Lukas
Published: October 2024

Immanuel Kant’s critical philosophy revolutionised thinking and left unanswered the question of how politics as philosophy and science is possible. Hannah Arendt was right to associate politics with the reflective power of decision, but she left unanswered the questions of what conception of politics is implied by Kant’s critical system and what are the limits of political philosophy and political science. The paper argues that politics is an aesthetic idea and therefore has no objectively universal definition and remains necessarily open to interpretation by various epistemic and political communities. Aesthetic ideas also substantiate the possibility of political science as symbolic cognition and reformulate the challenge of political philosophy to confine politics solely within the judgment.
Case Report: Headaches and Hormonal Disruptions
Authors: JS AlJadir Saadi
Published: October 2024

Craniopharyngiomas are rare, relatively benign, and slow-growing tumors that arise near the pituitary gland and hypothalamus and in the vicinity of the center of the brain. Therefore, the tumor is usually discovered to be big enough to cause presenting symptoms, including headaches, vomiting, and visual problems. Variable hormone deficiencies that lead to poor growth or absent puberty might also be found in children and adolescents, while in adults, such as thyroid underactivity, adrenal crises, gonadotropin deficiency, and diabetes insipidus. Although patients with craniopharyngioma have an excellent survival rate, this tumor’s tendency to adhere to important parts of the brain renders complete resection unattainable and, therefore, leads invariably to tumor recurrence. Thus, patients with this type of tumor must undergo regular, appropriate imaging, by MRI or CT scan.
Спогади про роботу з Платоном Григоровичем Костюком
Authors: Комісаренко Сергій Васильович
Published: October 2024

Виступ на ювілейній сесії Загальних зборів НАН України, присвяченій 100-річчю від дня народження академіка П.Г. Костюка (11 вересня 2024 року)
Головний мотив творчості Костюка — кальцій
Authors: Кришталь Олег Олександрович
Published: October 2024

Виступ на ювілейній сесії Загальних зборів НАН України, присвяченій 100-річчю від дня народження академіка П.Г. Костюка (11 вересня 2024 року)
Російські історичні патерни як зброя агресії і «московський фактор» у політиці заходу щодо України
Authors: Литвин Володимир Михайлович
Published: October 2024

Стаття є продовженням авторського аналізу історичних «вишукувань» Путіна, в основі яких лежить теза про Україну як «частину російської цивілізації». Показано, що завданню з відновлення цієї «історичної справедливості» за допомогою війни в РФ підпорядковані суспільна мобілізація всіх верств населення, «уточнення» канонів державної історичної пам’яті, перегляд рішення щодо реабілітації радянських громадян, посилення контролю і репресії проти нелояльних росіян. Проведено паралелі між політикою нинішньої Росії і довоєнної Німеччини з цього кола питань. Йдеться також про тих, кого Путін наслідує в інтерпретації історії, — Івана IV Грозного і Сталіна. Автор звертає увагу на те, як Путін вдається до шантажу ядерною зброєю. За його оцінками, нинішню ситуацію можна зіставити з передоднем Другої світової війни, коли Європа намагалася умиротворити агресора, тоді як сьогодні «московський фактор» відчутно впливає на політику Заходу щодо України.
hämmern, verwandeln und entschärfen. Zur Valenz metaphorischer Verben des Erzielens und Verhinderns von Toren im Handball, Eishockey und Fußball
Authors: Winkler Marco
Published: October 2024

This article examines metaphorical verbs for describing the scoring and preventing of goals in the languages of handball, ice hockey and football, such as hämmern, donnern, verwandeln or entschärfen. The focus here is on the changes in the valency structure compared to the general language verbs as well as the relationship to the valency of prototypical base verbs such as werfen and schießen. Expansions and reductions of valency can be observed, as well as changes in argument types. The syntactic-semantic characteristics of metaphorical verbs are described as a result of terminologisation in the professional language of sport.
Ingeborg Bachmanns ,Das Buch Franza‘: Rekonstruktion der örtlichen Topoi
Authors: Isaptschuk Julia
Published: October 2024

The study examines the uncompleted novel ,The Book of Franzaʻ (,Das Buch Franzaʻ, 1965–1966) written by the Austrian writer Ingeborg Bachmann. The attention is focused on the specifics of the topographical paradigms „center“ and „province“, categories „fictional“ and „real“, which form dichotomous pairs and reconstruct the space. The article investigates three main topoi, which, at the level of form, correspond to three chapters of ,The Book of Franzaʻ. The chapter ,Return to Galicienʻ presents the Carinthian province, ,Jordanian timeʻ – the Austrian post-war metropolis and ,The Egyptian darknessʻ – the desert of North Africa that balances the space specifics of the text.
,Die Lehre der Sainte-Victoire‘. Metanarrative Abhandlung über programmatische Grundvoraussetzungen des Schreibens von Peter Handke
Authors: Krstanović Andjelka
Published: October 2024

The story ,Die Lehre der Sainte-Victoire‘ by Peter Handke was published in 1980 as part of the tetralogy ,Langsame Heimkehr‘. It is a metanarrative treatise and thus represents the narrative high point in terms of an immediate discussion about poetological perspectives. This work examines the positioning of authorship in ,Die Lehre der Sainte-Victoire‘. This is analyzed on the basis of the narrative strategy used at the level of the plot and at the level of the narrative discourse in order to finally elaborate the basic poetological prerequisites that also remain influential in further works.
Impact of shading devices on daylight performance using simulation analysis
Authors: Shih Rowell Ray Lim
Published: October 2024

This study examines the impact of various external shading devices on key lighting metrics, such as spatial daylight autonomy, annual sunlight exposure, and mean illuminance in classrooms. By comparing the performance of different shading options, the study offers insights into optimizing natural lighting, enhancing visual comfort, and improving sustainability in educational buildings in warm, humid climates. The findings provide valuable guidance for architects, designers, and school facility managers aiming to improve energy efficiency and occupant comfort in educational environments.
A testvíztartalom változása a tápláltsági állapot és az életkor függvényében
Authors: Szakály Zsolt , Pápai Zsófia , Liszkai Zsuzsanna , Dézsiné Szentes Veronika , Dézsi Csaba András
Published: October 2024

Bevezetés: Az egészséges folyadékháztartás szükséges a normális
életfunkciók fenntartásához. A testvíz mennyiségének meghatározása fontos a
klinikai gyakorlatban és a sportban egyaránt a kiszáradás és/vagy a
folyadék-túlterhelés megítélésében. A testvíz mennyiségének meghatározására és
eloszlására használt módszerek közül elterjedőben vannak a bioelektromos
impedancia elvén működő eszközök. Használatuk egyszerű, gyors, és a kapott
eredmények megbízhatók. Célkitűzés: Vizsgálatunk célja volt
bioelektromos impedancia elvén működő eszközzel meghatározni a relatív
testvíztartalmat az életkor függvényében, normális testsúlyú, túlsúlyos és
elhízott férfiaknál és nőknél. Módszer: Az InBody 720 típusú
eszközzel végzett vizsgálatban összesen 2354, 7–81 éves személy adatai
szerepelnek. A normális testtömeget, a túlsúlyt és az elhízást a
testtömegindexszel határoztuk meg. Eredmények: Szignifikáns
különbség volt nemenként a testtömegben, a testtömegindexben a normális
testsúlyú és a túlsúlyos/elhízott résztvevők között minden korcsoportban. A
normális testtömegű férfiak és nők relatív testvíztartalmának átlagai közötti
különbségek minden korcsoportban szignifikánsak. A normális testtömegű férfiak
esetében az átlagok az életkor függvényében a 3. korcsoportig (21–50 évesek) nem
változtak, majd a 4. korcsoportban (51 évesnél idősebbek) csökkentek. A normális
testtömegű nők esetében az átlagok az életkor függvényében lineárisan
csökkentek. A túlsúlyosak/elhízottak relatív testvíztartalmának átlagai
szignifikánsan kisebbek voltak nemenként és korcsoportonként is, mint a normális
testtömegűek átlagai. A relatív testvíztartalom a túlsúlyos/elhízott férfiak és
nők esetében az életkor függvényében nem változott.
Megbeszélés: A bioelektromos impedancia elvén alapuló
eljárás még kevésbé terjedt el, azonban alkalmas a teljes testvíztartalom
mérésére. A módszerrel kapott adatok megbízhatóságát egyre több tanulmány
igazolja a normális testtömegűek, a túlsúlyosok és az elhízottak esetében is.
Következtetés: A bioelektromos impedancia elvén alapuló
eljárás számos területen segítheti a prognosztikát és a diagnosztikát. Adataink
bemutatása után reméljük, hogy vizsgálatunk hozzájárul e módszer elterjedéséhez.
Orv Hetil. 2024; 165(43): 1694–1699.
Effects of small-sided games on some recovery markers in football
Authors: Karadağ Tayyar , Patlar Süleyman , Bayrak Ahmet
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. Small-sided games (SSGs) are widely used in football training to replicate match conditions while controlling the physical load on players. Variations in the number of players during these games can significantly influence key recovery markers. This study aims to investigate the effects of variations in player numbers on maximal heart rate, blood lactate levels, and perceived exertion in small-sided games acutely applied in football.
Material and Methods. The study involved 28 male football players who were also university students (mean age 24.89±4.59 years, mean height 179±0.04 cm, mean body weight 73.21±4.34 kg). The participants were divided into three groups based on the number of players (2 vs. 2, 4 vs. 4, and 8 vs. 8). Heart rate and lactate levels were measured at three time points: before training, immediately after training, and 30 minutes post-training.
Results. The study revealed that post-training maximal heart rates (MHR) and lactate levels were significantly higher across all groups compared to pre-training levels, while measurements taken 30 minutes post-training were significantly lower than post-training levels (P<0.05). No significant differences were found between pre-training and 30-minute post-training MHR values across the three groups (P>0.05). Post-training MHR values were similar between the 2 vs. 2 and 4 vs. 4 groups (P>0.05), whereas the 8 vs. 8 group showed significantly higher values (P<0.05). Post-training and 30-minute post-training lactate levels were similar between the 4 vs. 4 and 8 vs. 8 groups (P>0.05), but the 2 vs. 2 group had significantly lower levels (P<0.05). Perceived exertion levels post-training were similar between the 2 vs. 2 and 4 vs. 4 groups (P>0.05), while the 8 vs. 8 group reported significantly higher perceived exertion levels (P<0.05).
Conclusions. Small-sided games with varying numbers of players are an effective method for modulating physical load during football training. These findings underscore the importance of considering game format in designing training sessions to optimize player performance and recovery.
Effect of small-sided game versus high-intensity interval training method in increasing anaerobic endurance in youth football athletes (15-17 years)
Authors: Ansori Muh. Khafid , Tomoliyus  , Sudarko Rumpis Agus , Primasoni Nawan , Widodo Hary , Emayanti Anggraeni
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. Small-sided games and high-intensity interval training programs are efforts to improve the anaerobic endurance of soccer players for optimal performance. However, training programs are often less effective. Therefore, this study aims to examine the effect of modified small-sided games and high-intensity interval training programs on improving anaerobic endurance and to compare the effectiveness of small-sided games versus high-intensity interval training results.
Material and Methods. Thirty players aged 15-17 participated in the study. The research design used was a pre-experimental two-group pretest-posttest. The instrument adopted was the running-based anaerobic sprint test. Data were analyzed using paired sample t-tests to determine the effect of the training program, and independent t-tests were conducted to determine the effectiveness of small-sided games versus high-intensity interval training methods.
Results. The results of the data normality test showed a significance value greater than 0.05, indicating that the data were normally distributed. The effect of the small-sided games training program and high-intensity interval training was tested using paired sample t-tests. The significance values were 0.00 for small-sided games and 0.27 for high-intensity interval training, indicating an increase in anaerobic endurance performance. The independent t-test comparing small-sided games and high-intensity interval training obtained a significance value less than 0.05, specifically 0.83, indicating no significant difference in results between the two methods.
Conclusions. The study's findings showed that both small-sided games and high-intensity interval training programs significantly improved anaerobic endurance performance. However, the comparison of the effectiveness of the two methods did not show a significant difference. Both methods are equally effective in improving anaerobic endurance. These results underline that small-sided games and high-intensity interval training can be used to enhance anaerobic endurance performance.
Physiological adaptations in small-side games combined with speed-endurance training: analyzing heart rate and rate of perceived exertion
Authors: Bharlaman Muhammad Bagus Firzam , Kusuma I Dewa Made Aryananda Wijaya , Kusnanik Nining Widyah , Prianto David Agus , Pranoto Adi
Published: October 2024

Background and Study Aim. Monitoring physiological responses during training is crucial for understanding how athletes adapt to various exercise intensities. However, the specific effects of combining Small-Sided Game (SSG) and Speed-Endurance Training (SET) on these parameters require the search for more effective solutions. This study aims to determine the effect of combined SSG and SET on heart rate (HR) and rate of perceived exertion (RPE).
Material and Methods. This quantitative research employed an experimental method with a weekly pretest-posttest design. The study population consisted of eighty-two members of the Unesa Soccer Student Activity Unit. A sample of eighteen individuals was selected through simple random sampling. The sample had the following characteristics: age 20±0.69 years, weight 65±9.54 kg, height 165.22±4.31 cm, and BMI 22.82±1.92. Data were collected using the Polar H-10 device, and RPE interviews were conducted ten minutes after each training session. Data analysis was performed using paired sample t-tests and Wilcoxon tests.
Results. The results showed a significant difference in HR for pair 1 (p = 0.037), but no significant differences for pair 2 (p = 0.058) or pair 3 (p = 0.076). However, the results for RPE indicated significant differences in pair 1 (p = 0.001), pair 2 (p = 0.004), and pair 3 (p = 0.002). The combination of SSG and SET led to an increase in HR during the first and second weeks. In the third week, HR decreased. RPE increased from the first to the second week. It then stabilized in the third and fourth weeks, indicating a consistent level of effort. The decrease in HR during the third week, despite the same effort level, suggests that the athletes successfully adapted to the training program.
Conclusions. The combination of SSG and SET demonstrates potential as an effective training method for improving both physiological performance and adaptation in athletes. These findings offer valuable insights into how athletes respond to structured training programs, providing a foundation for future research and practical applications in sports training. The results contribute to a deeper understanding of the role that specific training combinations play in athlete development and recovery.
Maximizing University Resources: Strategic Mobilization and Utilization of Human, Financial, and Material Resources in Higher Education
Authors:   Catholic University of East Africa, Kenya, Ngare Rose
Published: October 2024

The effective mobilization and use of university resources have become essential for attaining institutional excellence and sustainability in the ever-changing academic landscape of today. The strategic methods that colleges might use to maximize their material, financial, and human resources are examined in this article. It emphasizes the value of proactive human resource management, including hiring top people, fostering professional growth, and retaining faculty. Financial tactics are also examined, such as creative funding methods, cost-cutting measures, and open budget planning. The paper also explores digital transformation, sustainable practices, and smart infrastructure utilization as means of optimizing material resources. It describes the difficulties and potential solutions for resource mobilization, providing practical advice for higher education institutions by referencing successful case studies from international universities. In addition to improving academic results, efficient resource management fortifies institutional resilience against mounting outside demands.
Tocols and fatty acids as markers of the origin of vegetable oils and fats in bakery products
Authors: Fratianni Alessandra , Niro Serena , D’Agostino Annacristina , Ievoli Riccardo , Avino Pasquale , Notardonato Ivan , Panfili Gianfranco
Published: October 2024

This study reports an approach combining the use of tocols and fatty acids as variables to separate different bakery products with respect to the oil/fat used as ingredients. The tocol and fatty acid profiles were investigated in 12 biscuits prepared with different fats/oils. Based on different profiles, principal component analysis (PCA) was used to classify samples according to their fat/oil ingredients. The PCA found three components that are able to explain approximately 71% of total variance, and it proved useful in characterizing products. The tested approach was validated on 33 commercial bakery products prepared with different fats/oils to verify the information mentioned on food labels.
Determination of converter parameters for high-voltage electromechanical systems of stationary installations of industrial fans
Authors: Synetskyi A.V. , Kotsur I.M.
Published: October 2024

Purpose. To study the electromagnetic processes in the circuit of the phase rotor of a high-voltage induction motor connected to the network through a step-up converter, to determine the parameters of the converter and their relationship with the voltage gain to ensure the optimal level of energy efficiency of the electromechanical system.
Methodology. Methods of theoretical electrical engineering for the construction of a rotor circuit replacement scheme for an induction motor with a step-up converter, methods for solving a system of first-order differential equations, analytical methods.
Findings. The expediency of using a converter that combines the rotor circuit of a high-voltage induction motor with the power supply network and provides regulation of the rotor EMF with the recovery of the slip energy of the induction motor rotor to the power supply network has been proved. This will ensure speed control of powerful high-voltage induction motors on the rotor side with an EMF of up to 600 V and significantly reduce the cost of a high-voltage electromechanical system. A methodology for determining the converter gain and the parameters of the rotor circuit of the electromechanical system is proposed, which allows determining the transformation ratio of the matching transformer at the optimal value of the voltage gain. The conditions of trouble-free operation of the inverter at the moment of start-up of the electromechanical system are determined. Achieving these conditions is ensured by determining the delay of the control signal to the power keys of the inverter of a step-up converter. The correlation between the voltage gain and the equivalent resistance of the rotor circuit of the electromechanical system is established.
Originality. The ratio of the voltage gain to the equivalent resistance of the rotor circuit of the electromechanical system is established, which will ensure the matching of the rotor EMF with the voltage of the power supply network while maintaining a high level of energy efficiency.
Practical value. A methodology for determining the gain and parameters of a step-up converter is proposed, which allows determining the transformation ratio of a matching transformer at the optimal value of the voltage gain. The proposed methodology can be applied to the modelling of complex powerful high-voltage electromechanical systems, especially for stationary installations of industrial fans.
Pulse current stabilizer with digital control for the power supply system of the plasmatron
Authors: Vereshchago E.M. , Kostiuchenko V.I.
Published: October 2024

Purpose. Solution of theoretical and practical problems on providing digital control of a pulse converter using high-speed microprocessor tools in the output current stabilization mode with provision of a specified duration of transient processes caused by an increase in load voltage and output current astaticity, which allows to obtain significant advantages over analog versions.
Methodology. Review of literary and patent sources on the subject, theory of pulse automatic control systems, mathematical modeling of processes in pulse current stabilizers in the MATLAB / Simulink software environment and physical prototyping.
Findings. A simulation model of an autonomous power supply system based on a converter using soft switching technology of transistors and an arc load is presented. A control law is synthesized and a model of a pulse current stabilizer is developed. A method is proposed and ways are found to control a pulse current stabilizer that provide a given duration of transients and astatism of the output current. A model of a pulse stabilizer with digital control based on a single-crystal computing module is developed and manufactured. The results of the study confirm the achievement of a finite duration of transient processes caused by a step change in the load voltage, close to 3-4 periods of conversion and output current astaticism. It is shown that the use of a pulse stabilizer using a fully digital control circuit has undeniable advantages over analog systems.
Originality. The problem of synthesizing a digital controller for a given control time by the method of desired transfer functions for a soft switching operating converter on an arc load is solved. In addition to the given control time, additional quality requirements in the steady state are provided.
Practical value.The use of microprocessor technology makes it possible not only to implement complex and new highly efficient control algorithms for a converter operating in the pulse current stabilizer mode, but also to perform additional functions for overload protection, self-diagnostics and telemetry of pulse converters. The use of this same digital device simultaneously for the purpose of controlling a pulse converter will allow to abandon analog PWM controllers and thereby reduce its own energy consumption and weight and size characteristics, increase the reliability of the functioning of pulse converters in power supply systems as a whole.
УКРАЇНСЬКИЙ ТВАРИННИЦЬКИЙ САМІТ: ТРАНСФОРМУЄМО СЛОВА В ДІЮ
Authors: GROUP PROAGRO
Published: October 2024

11 жовтня, у Києві відбувся UKRAINIAN LIVESTOCK SUMMIT 2024, організований компанією «ПроАгро Груп» спільно з Українсько-Європейським Бізнес Хабом, Українською Аграрною Конфедерацією, Спілкою молочних підприємств України, Інститутом тваринництва НААНУ, Одеським Національним технологічним університетом й Міжрегіональним Союзом птахівників та кормовиробників України за підтримки Міністерства аграрної політики України.
Alterations in T cell immunity over 6–12 months post-COVID-19 infection in convalescent individuals: a screening study
Authors: Zurochka A. V. , Dobrynina M. А. , Safronova E. A. , Zurochka V. A. , Zuikova A. A. , Sarapultsev G. P. , Zabkov O. I. , Mosunov A. A. , Verkhovskaya M. D. , Ducardt V. V. , Fomina L. O. , Kostolomova E. G. , Ostankova Yu. V. , Kudryavtsev Igor V. , Totolian A. A.
Published: October 2024

Acute COVID-19 is a viral infection caused by a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that results in dramatically decreased peripheral blood CD3+T cell count apparently due to alterations of thymic T cell maturation, that can persist long term afterwards. Therefore, we analyzed the levels of peripheral blood TRECs (T-cell receptor excision circles), and investigated the main alterations in peripheral blood T cell subsets in COVID-19 convalescents. We performed molecular quantification of TRECs with “TREC/KREC-AMP PS” kit and flow cytometric analysis of peripheral blood lymphocytes from three groups of patients. The first group contained 109 samples from COVID-19 convalescents (6–12 month post-acute COVID-19) with normal levels of TRECs (TRECn); the second was formed from COVID-19 convalescents (6–12 month post-acute COVID-19) with decreased levels of TRECs (TREClow, n = 29), and healthy control group (HC, n = 18). We noticed no significant differences between all three groups in CD3+T cell relative and absolute numbers. However, CD4+T cell frequencies were decreased in TREClow and TRECn groups compared to HC (40.8% (31.6; 50.1) and 46.4% (40.0; 53.0) vs 53.5% (47.36; 56.9), p 0.001 and р = 0.004, respectively). Furthermore, Th cell levels were decreased in TREClow patients vs HC and TRECn groups (701 cell/1 µL (478; 807) vs 1005 cell/1 µL (700; 1419), р = 0.020, and 876 cell/ 1 µL (661; 1046), р = 0.008, respectively). Finally, both groups of COVID-19 convalescents had increased frequencies of circulating CD8+T cells — 29.4% (20.7; 39.7) in TREClow group, 26.5% (21.1; 32.7) in TRECn group vs 21.3% (17.1; 26.0) in healthy controls (p = 0.024 and р = 0.026, respectively). In TRECn group, CD8+T cell count was elevated vs control range (508 cell/1 µL (372; 622) vs 356 cell/1 µL (247; 531), р = 0.044). Thus, COVID-19 convalescents (6–12 month post-acute COVID-19) showed an imbalance in CD4+and CD8+T cell level even at 6–12 months post-acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, and the observed changes in peripheral blood T cells could be closely related to the alterations in thymic T cell maturation and differentiation. Such a long-term decline in TREC levels in the circulation may have a profound impact on immune system functions and requires immunocorrection therapy.
New promising antiseptics for individual antiviral protection against seasonal infections including COVID-19
Authors: Lepekhova S. A. , Grigor’ev G. E. , Kurganskiy Ilya S.
Published: October 2024

Seasonal viral infections of the upper respiratory tract are widespread throughout the world. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has revealed the importance of timely personalized prevention of acute viral diseases and related bacterial complications. One of the main directions in the preventing viral infections relies on the development of effective antiseptics to inactivate viruses on the hands and mucous membranes. To effectively destroy SARS-CoV-2, the WHO recommends two antiseptics: a 70% ethanol solution and sodium hypochlorite. The proposed antiseptics are outdated and have an irritating effect on the skin and mucous membranes. In connection with this, a promising research direction includes development of new antiseptics with selective toxicity, low volatility, low coefficients in the oil-water system, weak lipophilic properties, low absorption into the vacuolar skin structures and low content of toxic impurities. One of these antiseptics is anavidin. The development and selection of molecules has been carried out, the next planned stage will be assessment of the effectiveness and safety of new molecules, including preclinical and early phase clinical trials, also analyzing prevention of viral infections, e.g. COVID-19.
Post-vaccination immunity and pneumonia incidence in medical workers in response to various flu vaccination regimens between the 1st and 2nd peaks of COVID-19 morbidity
Authors: Kostinov Mikhail Petrovich , Nastaeva N. Yu. , Nikityuk N. F. , Mashilov K. V. , Khasanova A. A. , Solovyeva I. L. , Andreeva N. P. , Li Yu. А. , Polishchuk V. B. , Linok Andrey V. , Loktionova M. N. , Kostinova A. M. , Khrapunova I. A.
Published: October 2024

Background.In the absence of a vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, seasonal influenza vaccination during the pandemic contributed to lowered COVID-19 susceptibility and severity. The study was aimed to assess the state of post-influenza vaccination immunity, pneumonia frequency and severity in medical workers after using various flu vaccination regimens, between the 1st and 2nd peaks of COVID-19 epidemic rise.Materials and methods.Comparatively analyzed data on the levels of antibodies against influenza virus strains and pneumonia incidence in 487 medical workers was carried out: 1st group — unvaccinated in 2020–2021 (n = 281), 2nd group — vaccinated against influenza (Sovigripp), (n = 98), 3rd group — received combined vaccination against influenza and pneumococcus (Prevenar 13), (n = 108).Results.6 months after vaccination, the highest rates of influenza virus were detected in the A(H3N2), the level of seroprotection (≥ 1:40) ranged from 49.0% in unvaccinated (1st group) to 53.4–53.2% in those who received combined vaccination (group III), as well as influenza alone (2nd group), p 0.05; for strain A(H1N1) the level of seroprotection in 1st group is 24.5%, lower (p 0.04) than in 2nd group — 32.7%, but does not differ from the levels of 40.4% in group III; for strain B the level of seroprotection is the lowest ranging from 19.4% in the group of unvaccinated subjects up to 22.4% in 2nd group and 23.4% in 3rd group. The pneumonia incidence in 1st group (3.9%), 2nd group (3.1%), 3rd group (4.6%) did not differ, however, among all vaccinated subjects severity of pneumonia clinical course was mild, whereas in unvaccinated employees, except for mild course (45.4%, 5 out of 11 people) pneumonia in 36.4% (4 out of 11 people) cases was assessed as moderate and in 18.2% (2 out of 11 people) cases — severe with fatal outcomes.Conclusion.The study showed that 6 months after seasonal influenza immunization between the 1st and 2nd peaks of COVID-19 epidemic rise, the immunogenicity of the vaccine meets the CPMP criterion for the A(H3N2) strain. In vaccinated patients, the proportion of pneumonia with COVID-19 clinical picture was mild in 100% of cases, and in unvaccinated patients in 36.4% of cases — of moderate severity and in 18.2% — severe with fatal outcome.
Serotonin and adrenaline as inhibitors of neutrophil extracellular traps formation (experimental study)
Authors: Skupnevskiy Sergey V. , Saveljev R. V.
Published: October 2024

Regulation of the NETosis can provoke cancer, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases and become a basis for effective targeted therapy. The aim: to study the modifying effects of serotonin and adrenaline on NETosis during phagocytosis in rats.Materials and methods.Wistar rats were divided into control (solvent, 0.9% NaCl solution) and experimental (serotonin and adrenaline 1.43 and 0.143 mg/kg body weight, respectively) groups. Intraperitoneal injection of test substances was carried out 90 minutes before blood sampling, in which phagocytic activity (PhA), phagocytic index (PhI) and degree of suicidal neutrophil NETosis were determined: with total and partial chromatin decondensation (TCD, PCD, accordingly). A paired Student’s t test was used to compare groups with numerical values and McNemar’s test (for dichotomous variables). Pearson’s linear correlation coefficient (rxy) was assessed to measure a linear relationship between time points.Results.The administration of adrenaline contributed to NETosis inhibition by 41.5% compared to control group (p 0.001), serotonin — by 27.6% (p 0.001). The ratio of neutrophils with total and partial chromatin decondensation for control group was 1.0:0.9; for serotonin and adrenaline it changed to 1.0:1.7 and 1.0:1.4, respectively. Relative to control group, phagocytic index after serotonin administration increased by 4.9%, in case of adrenaline, on the contrary, it decreased by 12.4% (p 0.01). A high positive correlation was revealed between NETosis and phagocytic index for control group and experimental group with adrenaline: rxy= 0.823–0.997. For phagocytic index and NETosis in these groups there was a high negative (rxy= –0.714–(–0.871)) and a noticeable positive correlation for serotonin (rxy= 0.638).Conclusion.Serotonin and adrenaline in therapeutic dosages have a pronounced inhibitory effect on NETosis, which may pave the avenue for increasing the effectiveness of therapy for immunoinflammatory and oncological diseases. The use of serotonin is preferable because it has additional immunomodulatory effects and cause no direct stimulation ofα- andβ-adrenergic receptors.
BINARY COLLISIONS OF SUPERCOOLED WATER DROPLETS
Authors: Kunberger Verena , Weigand Bernhard
Published: October 2024

Binary collisions of supercooled water droplets occur in clouds and are one of the drivingmechanisms of precipitation like rain or hail. All occurring binary droplet collisions also influence the clouds on a macroscopic level due to the latent heat release during phase change. To understand and observe these micro-processes, the researchers devised an experimental setup using optical levitation that is able to
recreate ambient conditions in clouds. Optical levitation allows the observation of the droplet without external influences like walls or vibrations. Initial results of binary droplet collisions of supercooled water droplets are presented here. Experiments were conducted at two different temperatures, -37°C and -23°C, at a relative humidity of 24% and show the influence of the temperature variation and the droplet sizes, which were between 38 and 42 μm for the falling drop and between 20 and 28 μm for the levitated drop. The relative velocity between the two droplets was ν = 2.88 m/s.
Analysis of Service Needs What the Transportation Vulnerable Want for Inventing the Standard Model of Mid-Distance Low-Floor Seat Buses
Authors:   RehabilitationInternational Korea, Do Yu Mi , Hong HyunKeun , Park Jong Hyun , Jeon Gwang Min
Published: October 2024

This study targets the transportation vulnerable (persons with physical disabilities using wheelchairs, persons with physical disabilities using assistive devices other than wheelchairs, the visually impaired, the hearing impaired, the seniors over 65 years of age, pregnant women, and foreigners living in Korea) residing in 17 cities and provinces across the country. We investigated the needs for services using low-floor seat buses. Therefore, in order to guarantee the right to mid-distance transportation for the transportation vulnerable, basic research was conducted to successfully develop operation technology to develop and disseminate a standard model of a low-floor seat bus that can run on automobile-only roads. The survey was largely composed of four areas: individual-related matters, movement and activity situations, low-floor bus use status, and desire to use low-floor bus services. Based on the results of the analysis, the conclusions are drawn for developing a standard model for mid-distance low-floor seat buses in the future to ensure mobility rights and active social participation for the transportation vulnerable. First, mid-distance low-floor seat bus service is absolutely necessary. Second, systematic training of drivers is urgently needed. Third, more efforts should be made to improve awareness of the transportation vulnerable. Finally, there is a need for continued interest in the internal and external environmental structure of low-floor seat buses.
A Study on the Application of Assistance Methods to Appreciate Historic Relics for People with Visually Disabilities
Authors:   RehabilitationInternational Korea, Yoo Soyoung , Yook Juhye , Kim Youngmin
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this study is to evaluate appreciation assistance methods of 3D model printouts and audio explanations of four historical relics for blind people. As a result, five participants with visual disabilities recognized the main elements through appreciating 3D model printouts and audio explanations of historical relics. The participants responded that they were satisfied with being able to directly appreciate tactile objects from the historical relics. Also, they were satisfied that they learned about the parts of the 3D model printouts and historical backgrounds with audio explanations. Otherwise they could not know them with only tactile method. Through this study, we presented suggestions to address when providing assistance methods to appreciate historical relics for people with visual disabilities in museums. Future research is needed to make guidelines that take into account various factors that arise when museums provide appreciation assistance methods for those with visual disabilities.
Client-Centered and Multidisciplinary Approaches in School-Based Occupational Therapy: Perceptions of Therapists and Parents
Authors:   RehabilitationInternational Korea, Choi In-Young , Lee Sun Wook
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to explore the perspectives of occupational therapists and parents who receive therapeutic support services for their children with special needs in school. We focused on school-based occupational therapy (SBOT) service goals, delineating how participants prioritize necessary services and perceive multidisciplinary collaboration. In this cross-sectional study, we employed an online survey methodology. We used a purposive sampling method to reach all school-based therapists registered in therapeutic support centers and a snowball sampling method to recruit parents. The final sample included responses from 29 therapists and 120 parents. We found that parents reported a greater need for service provision and multidisciplinary collaboration compared to school-based occupational therapists. Although therapists felt competent in their service provision, there is an urgent need to address the service needs expressed by parents. The participating therapists reported working with lower-functioning students and prioritized goals such as “providing task skills through Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)” and “enhancing student participation in educational activities.” In contrast, parents reported supporting higher-functioning children and prioritized goals such as “therapeutic activities within school environments” and “helping with important learning activities in natural environments.” This study underscores the need for ongoing research to develop integrative occupational therapy services in the school environment.
Ana Dilinde Akademik Dinleme ve Okuma Sorunları: Lisans Öğrencileri Neden Anlamıyor?
Authors: Karagöl Efecan , Tunç Şahin Canan
Published: October 2024

Bu araştırmanın amacı, lisans öğrencilerinin ana dilinde akademik dinleme ve okuma sorunlarını belirlemektir. Nitel yaklaşıma göre tasarlanan araştırmada kırk üç öğrenci ve beş akademisyenin görüşleri ile günlük ve gözlemler değerlendirilmiştir. Veriler, içerik analizi tekniğiyle çözümlenmiştir. Araştırmanın sonucunda öğrenciler, akademisyenlerin slayt okuyarak ders anlatmalarının öğretim tarzlarını sıkıcı hâle getirdiğini vurgulamıştır. Ayrıca slaytlar hazır materyal olarak görüldüğünden öğrenciler sınıfta aktif dinlemeden kopmaktadır. Bunun yanı sıra dağınık ve çok sayıda bilgiyi sınıflandıramama ile not alma becerisinin yetersizliği de akademik dinlemede dikkat çeken bulgular arasındadır. Öğrenciler, akademik okumada akademik metinlere erişememe, metinlerin karmaşık dili ve metinlerde önemli bilgiyi belirleyememe gibi sorunlarla karşılaşmaktadır. Bu sorunların giderilmesi için akademik dinleme ve okuma becerilerinin geliştirilmesine yönelik destekleyici eğitimlere ihtiyaç duyulmaktadır.