bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pediatric Supracondylar Fracture of the Humerus with Sideward Displacement
Authors: Zaidman Michael , Eidelman Mark , Abu-Dalu Khaled , Kotlarsky Pavel
Published: July 2023

Background: Supracondylar humeral fracture is probably the most common elbow fracture in children requiring surgical intervention. We observed a subtype of pediatric supracondylar humeral fracture with a sideward translation, without substantial displacement in the sagittal plane on initial radiographs. The purpose of this study was to calculate the incidence of this fracture subtype and suggest a modification to the standard operative technique, to achieve the desired fracture alignment and fixation. Methods: We reviewed the clinical records and radiographs of all pediatric patients with supracondylar humeral fractures surgically treated in our institution between the years 2006 and 2014. The fracture types, fixation configuration and any complications were recorded. Results: Overall, 263 consecutive patients were included. The incidence of supracondylar fracture of the humerus with solely sideward displacement was 6%. The fracture was characterized clinically and radiographically. We proposed a modification to the standard operative technique for this fracture subtype for successful closed reduction and percutaneous pinning. Conclusions: Special attention to this fracture subtype, including appropriate operating room setup and the application of a suitable reduction and pinning technique, has the potential to achieve successful results and avoid the need for open reduction.
The Distributionally Robust Inventory Strategy of the Overconfident Retailer under Supply Uncertainty
Authors: Wu Dasheng , Chen Feng
Published: July 2023

To factor in the retailer’s overconfidence when dealing with the inventory problem with supply uncertainty, this paper develops a distributionally robust optimization model by only considering the mean and variance of the yield rate distribution. We first show that overconfidence would prompt the retailer to order more under low-profit conditions, whereas it reduces the order quantity under high-profit conditions. The analysis results imply that the pull-to-center effect still exists when only supply uncertainty applies, and the asymmetry that the deviation is higher under low-profit conditions is proved. The performance of overconfidence is also characterized in the expected profits of both retailer and supplier. Numerical studies show that even though the retailer may suffer losses, the supplier can benefit from the retailer’s overconfidence in the low-profit case, which would positively increase the joint expected profit of the supply chain. Two extensions to the base model are also considered, including the scenario with both demand and supply uncertainties and an overconfident multi-product problem with budget constraints. This research provides tractable results to predict how the decision-maker is biased, and such insights would help the applications of de-biasing techniques in practice.
Decarbonization Measure: A Concept towards the Acceleration of the Automotive Plant Decarbonization
Authors: Succar Sami Alexandre , Brissaud Daniel , Evrard Damien , Flick Dominik , De la Fontaine Damien
Published: July 2023

Smart manufacturing systems enable simultaneous addressing of productivity, sustainability, and social improvements. The implementation of such systems in industries such as the automotive industry represents a promising way to meet stakeholders’ requirements concerning the decarbonization of their productive activities. In fact, this task is truly challenging for the automotive industry considering their complex organizational issues, generating knowledge sharing problems, and the diversity of plants’ context and characteristics. These facts make any decarbonization solution local, instead of being spread to a maximum of production units to potentially enhance decarbonization time efficiency. This article tackles these issues by providing a new organizational concept dealing with the relationships between decarbonization actors (energy managers and consultants) supported by the technical design of an IT knowledge management tool. These contributions will be based on the concept of decarbonization measure (DM) and illustrated by the case of Stellantis, one of the world leaders in terms of vehicle production, which develops a new organizational structure from local energy managers to corporate energy consultants.
Digital Revolution and Digitization Process to Promote AIS as a Vector of Financial Performance
Authors: BinSaeed Rima Hassan , Yousaf Zahid , Grigorescu Adriana , Radu Valentin , Nassani Abdelmohsen A.
Published: July 2023

Nowadays, many businesses recognize the importance of digitization as a strategic advantage to maintain competitiveness. As a result, current research aims to investigate three significant factors that influence digital transformation: digital innovation (DI), digital orientation (DO), and the accounting information system (AIS). These factors are supposed to impact the financial success and performance of firms. The objective of this study is to examine the positive association between digital orientation and financial performance (FP) and to explore how the AIS mediates this relationship. Additionally, this paper investigates the moderating role of digital innovation in the relationship between digital orientation and financial performance. To collect data, a quantitative method was employed using a random sampling technique. Data were collected via a questionnaire survey from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in China, with a sample size of 550. Structural equation modeling (SEM) and a bootstrapping technique with 5000 iterations were used to test the study hypotheses. The findings of this study indicate a positive link between digital orientation and the financial performance of organizations. Furthermore, the results confirm that the AIS acts as a mediator between digital orientation and financial performance. The outcomes also demonstrate that digital innovation plays a moderating role in the relationship between DO and financial performance. This paper contributes to the existing literature on digital transformation by providing a deeper understanding of the aforementioned antecedents of the digital revolution (DO, AIS, and financial performance) and how they should be integrated within digitalization settings to achieve financial performance.
Enhancement of Handshake Attraction through Tactile, Visual, and Auditory Multimodal Stimulation
Authors: Kumagai Taishu , Nonomura Yoshimune
Published: July 2023

“Handshaking parties,” where pop idols shake hands with fans, can be exciting. The multimodal stimulation of tactile, visual, and auditory sensations can be captivating. In this study, we presented subjects with stimuli eliciting three sensory responses: tactile, visual, and auditory sensations. We found that the attraction scores of subjects increased because they felt the smoothness and obtained a human-like sensory experience grasping a grip handle covered with artificial skin, faux fur, and abrasive cloth with their dominant hand as they looked at a picture of a pop idol or listened to a song. When no pictures or songs were presented, a simple feeling of slight warmth was correlated with the attraction score. Results suggest that multimodal stimuli alter tactile sensations and the feelings evoked. This finding may be useful for designing materials that activate the human mind through tactile sensation and for developing humanoid robots and virtual reality systems.
Long COVID in Young Patients: Impact on Lung Volume Evaluated Using Multidetector CT
Authors: Bellini Davide , Capodiferro Paola , Vicini Simone , Rengo Marco , Carbone Iacopo
Published: July 2023

Purpose: To evaluate using quantitative analysis on chest CT images a possible lung volume reduction in Long COVID patients who complain mild respiratory symptoms, with chest CT negative for inflammatory findings. Materials and Methods: CT images of patients from 18 to 40 years old who underwent chest CT scan at our institution were analyzed retrospectively, using AwServer Thoracic VCAR software for a quantitative study. Exclusion criteria were inflammatory findings at CT, previous lung surgery, lung cancer, and breath artifacts that invalidate the quality of images. Patients were divided into two groups: in the first one (“post-COVID”) were patients who had previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, confirmed by an RT-PCR, who underwent chest CT from 3 to 6 months after their negativization for long COVID symptoms; in the control group (“non-COVID”), were enrolled patients who underwent a chest CT scan from January 2018 to December 2019, before the spread of COVID in Italy. Results: Our final population included 154 TC, 77 post-COVID patients (mean age 33 ± 6) and 77 non-COVID patients (mean age 33 ± 4.9). Non statistical significative differences were obtained between groups in terms of age, sex, and other characteristics that affect total lung capacity such as obesity, thoracic malformations, and smoking habit. Mean values of the total lung volume (TV), right-lung volume (RV), and left-lung volume (LV) in the post-COVID group compared with non-COVID group were, respectively: 5.25 ± 0.25 L vs. 5.72 ± 0.26 L (p = 0.01); 2.76 ± 0.14 L vs. 3 ± 0.14 L (p = 0.01); 2.48 ± 0.12 L vs. 2.72 ± 0.12 L (p = 0.01). Conclusion: In patients with symptoms suggesting Long COVID and negative chest CT macroscopic findings, quantitative volume analysis demonstrated a mean value of reduction in lung volume of 10% compared to patients of the same age who never had COVID. A chest CT negative for inflammatory findings may induce clinicians to attribute Long COVID mild respiratory symptoms to anxiety, especially in young patients. Our study brings us beyond appearances and beyond the classic radiological signs, introducing a quantitative evaluation of lung volumes in these patients. It is hard to establish to what extent this finding may contribute to Long COVID symptoms, but this is another step to gain a wider knowledge of the potential long-term effects caused by this new virus.
Spatiotemporal Patterns of the Omicron Wave of COVID-19 in the United States
Authors: Zhang Siyuan , Liu Liran , Meng Qingxiang , Zhang Yixuan , Yang He , Xu Gang
Published: July 2023

COVID-19 has undergone multiple mutations, with the Omicron variant proving to be highly contagious and rapidly spreading across many countries. The United States was severely hit by the Omicron variant. However, it was still unclear how Omicron transferred across the United States. Here, we collected daily COVID-19 cases and deaths in each county from 1 December 2021 to 28 February 2022 as the Omicron wave. We adopted space-time scan statistics, the Hoover index, and trajectories of the epicenter to quantify spatiotemporal patterns of the Omicron wave of COVID-19. The results showed that the highest and earliest cluster was located in the Northeast. The Hoover index for both cases and deaths exhibited phases of rapid decline, slow decline, and relative stability, indicating a rapid spread of the Omicron wave across the country. The Hoover index for deaths was consistently higher than that for cases. The epicenter of cases and deaths shifted from the west to the east, then southwest. Nevertheless, cases were more widespread than deaths, with a lag in mortality data. This study uncovers the spatiotemporal patterns of Omicron transmission in the United States, and its underlying mechanisms deserve further exploration.
Centrality-Dependent Lévy HBT Analysis in sNN=5.02 TeV PbPb Collisions at CMS
Authors: Kórodi Balázs
Published: July 2023

The measurement of two-particle Bose–Einstein momentum correlation functions are presented using sNN=5.02 TeV PbPb collision data, recorded by the CMS experiment in 2018. The measured correlation functions are discussed in terms of Lévy-type source distributions. The Lévy source parameters are extracted as functions of transverse mass and collision centrality. These source parameters include the correlation strength λ, the Lévy stability index α, and the Lévy scale parameter R. The source shape, characterized by α, is found to be neither Gaussian nor Cauchy. A hydrodynamic-like scaling of R is also observed.
The Trajectory of Brazilian Immunization Program between 1980 and 2018: From the Virtuous Cycle to the Vaccine Coverage Decline
Authors: Minakawa Marcia Michie , Frazão Paulo
Published: July 2023

Background: Public health policies are crossed by economic and political interests that can affect the maintenance of the immunization programs and their vaccination coverages. The aim was to investigate the political and economic conditions that marked the trajectory of the Brazilian immunization program from 1980 to 2018. Methods: Documentary research gathered data on public expenditures with epidemiological surveillance and vaccine procurement and nationwide estimates of vaccine coverage. The scientific literature on the program’s implementation and the country’s political and economic conditions was examined. The theoretical approach was based on historical institutionalism. Results: The results showed rising, high rates maintaining and falling vaccination coverages in the period. As of 2010, there was a tendency for a reduction in total federal spending on epidemiological surveillance, putting pressure on the budgets of the sub-national governments in their respective areas of coverage, and on federal spending in dollars for the acquisition of immunobiologicals and inputs. Conclusions: The amplitude and complexity of the program’s trajectory have been crossed by diverse dynamics conditioned by economic and political interests reflecting at a deeper level the advance of capitalism through fiscal austerity measures over democracy’s aspirations for greater balance and justice in the distribution of resources.
A Parent Version of the Motors of COVID-19 Vaccination Acceptance Scale for Assessing Parents’ Motivation to Have Their Children Vaccinated
Authors: Lin Chung-Ying , Hsiao Ray C. , Chen Yu-Min , Yen Cheng-Fang
Published: July 2023

Parents’ motivation to vaccinate their children against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) plays a crucial role in the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines among children. The Motors of COVID-19 Vaccination Acceptance Scale (MoVac-COVID19S) is a valuable tool for assessing individuals’ vaccination-related attitudes and the factors influencing their decision to be vaccinated against COVID-19. This study adapted the MoVac-COVID19S to create a parent version (P-MoVac-COVID19S) and examined the psychometric soundness of two P-MoVac-COVID19S versions (a 9-item version (P-MoVac-COVID19S-9) and a 12-item version (P-MoVac-COVID19S-12)) for assessing parents’ motivation to vaccinate their children. A total of 550 parents completed the P-MoVac-COVID19S and a questionnaire assessing the factors that impact parents’ intention to allow their children to receive the COVID-19 vaccine using a vaccine acceptance scale. We enquired about the level of parental worry regarding the adverse effects of COVID-19 vaccines on children’s health and the number of COVID-19 vaccine doses received by parents. The factor structures of the P-MoVac-COVID19S-9 and P-MoVac-COVID19S-12 were examined using confirmatory factor analysis. The internal consistency, test–retest reliability, and concurrent validity of the P-MoVac-COVID19S were also examined. The results revealed that the P-MoVac-COVID19S-12 has a four-factor structure, which aligns well with the theoretical framework of the cognitive model of empowerment; the P-MoVac-COVID19S-9 has a one-factor structure. Both the P-MoVac-COVID19S-9 and P-MoVac-COVID19S-12 had good internal consistency and test–retest reliability and acceptable concurrent validity. The results of this study demonstrated that the P-MoVac-COVID19S is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing parent’s motivation to vaccinate their children against COVID-19.
Strategic Approach for Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure for Efficient Mobility along Highways: A Real Case Study in Spain
Authors: Saldarini Alessandro , Miraftabzadeh Seyed Mahdi , Brenna Morris , Longo Michela
Published: July 2023

The Electric Vehicle (EV) market has been growing exponentially in recent years, which is why the distribution network of public charging stations will be subject to expansion and upgrading. In order to improve the public charging infrastructure, this paper aims to develop a model capable of analyzing the current situation of a stretch of highway, identifying the congestion points, created by the formation of queues at the charging points. A specific section of a highway in Spain was selected as a case study to evaluate the performance of the model, allowing for rigorous testing and thorough analysis of its performance in a real-world scenario. The first step is to define and evaluate the effects of factors affecting EV consumption, such as the slope of the road, weather conditions, and driving style. Subsequently, a simulation model is developed using the agent-based simulation software AnyLogic, which simulates the journey of a fleet of electric vehicles, taking into account the battery charging and discharging process. Based on the obtained results, the charging infrastructure is improved to minimize the total travel time of an electric vehicle on a long-distance trip.
Resilient Design of Product Service Systems with Automated Guided Vehicles
Authors: Stetter Ralf
Published: July 2023

Automated guided vehicles undertake complex transportation tasks, for instance, in production and storage systems. In recent years, an increased focus on sustainability has occurred as the effects of ongoing climate change have become more apparent. Engineers are searching intensively for ways to design technical systems that are not only environmentally sustainable, but are also resilient to the challenges of the changing climate and other environmental conditions. The production of automated guided vehicles requires considerable resources; therefore, a long operation time is desirable for overall sustainability. The performance of transportation tasks requires certain processes, such as control, path planning, coordination/synchronization, and maintenance and update processes—the latter are also very important for a long operation time. This article proposes understanding these processes as services and to explore product service systems with automated guided vehicles. Due to their complexity, the efficient and safe operation of such systems can be at risk because of several factors, such as component faults, external attacks and disturbances. For several years both resilient control and resilience engineering have been researched as possible remedies. An extension of these two concepts to the early stages of system development processes and including the system’s hardware is proposed in this article. This extension is referred to as resilient design. A primary purpose of resilient design is sustainability through extended usability and planned updates. The main intention of this article is to provide a comprehensive understanding of resilient design through application to product service systems with automated guided vehicles. The basis for this contribution is an extensive literature review and detailed system analyses on different levels. The main research results include novel application modes for product development methods. The explanation of the results is supported by means of an illustrative example based on a product service system with automated guided vehicles.
Influence of Gallic Acid-Containing Mouth Spray on Dental Health and Oral Microbiota of Healthy Dogs: A Pilot Study
Authors: Thongma Nichaphat , Sivamaruthi Bhagavathi Sundaram , Bharathi Muruganantham , Tansrisook Chawin , Peerajan Sartjin , Tanongpitchayes Kittidaj , Chawnan Natcha , Rashmi Subramanian , Thongkorn Kriangkrai , Chaiyasut Chaiyavat
Published: July 2023

The pilot study aimed to investigate the effects of GAMS on oral microbiota in healthy dog subjects. Thirty-eight dogs were recruited and randomly allocated to the placebo (n = 19) and treatment groups (n = 19). The dogs were treated with mouth spray once daily for 42 days. The changes in the gingival index (GI), plaque index (PI), and calculus index (CI) were measured at baseline (day 0) and end of the study (42nd day). The changes in the oral microbial composition of representative dogs (placebo, n = 7; and treatment, n = 7) were also evaluated at baseline and end of the study. Oral microbial composition was assessed by sequencing. The sequences were annotated using the QIIME 2.0TM. The GI, PI, and CI indexes were reduced after the GAMS usage. The abundance of the commensal bacterial phylum Actinobacteria and Chloroflexi, genera Frederiksenia, and Bergeyella was improved after six weeks of GAMS usage. GAMS reduced the pathogenic bacterial species, including Neisseria sp., Desulfobulbus sp., Capnocytophaga canis, and Corynebacterium mustelae. Moreover, some pathogenic bacterial abundances were increased at the end of the study. All the microbial variations were observed within the group. The inter-group analysis revealed that the changes were unrelated to GAMS usage. Further studies need to be carried out using more experimental subjects to confirm the effectiveness of GAMS. More metagenomic data are required to evidence the GMAS impact on the oral microbiome of healthy dogs.
Preliminary Study on Treatment Outcomes and Prednisolone Tapering after Marine Lipid Extract EAB-277 Supplementation in Dogs with Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia
Authors: Mektrirat Raktham , Chongrattanameteekul Peerawit , Pureeroj Nattanon , Duangboon Metina , Loythong Jarunee , Wiset Natakorn , Chantarachart Sineenart , Lumsangkul Chompunut , Pongkan Wanpitak
Published: July 2023

Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is a common autoimmune disorder in dogs with a high fatality rate and it remains a therapeutic challenge. The marine lipid extract, EAB-277, is a natural anti-inflammatory nutraceutical product. However, the effects of EAB-277 in IMHA dogs has rarely been investigated. The objective of this study is to assess the clinical effects of EAB-277 and prednisolone dose-tapering for supplemental therapy in IMHA dogs. Prednisolone was given to 18 anemic IMHA dogs according to a standard regimen. Six dogs were supplementally treated with EAB-277 for 28 days and the remaining twelve dogs were a control group of untreated supplementations. The results demonstrate that the supplement group showed slightly better survival rates (66.7 ± 19.2%) than the control group (16.7 ± 0.7%), but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.408). When compared to pre-therapy, the supplement group’s blood profiles improved (p < 0.05). The EAB-277 treated group showed a moderate decrease in the incidence rate (4.20 times) of prednisolone tapering compared to the control group. The dosage reduction of prednisolone in supplement group was more than that in the control group (p < 0.0001). Our results suggest that EAB-277 supplementation may enhance clinical outcomes and lessen prednisolone dose-tapering in canine IMHA therapy.
Balaenophilus manatorum in Debilitated and Bycatch-Derived Loggerhead Sea Turtles Caretta caretta from Northwestern Adriatic Sea
Authors: Marchiori Erica , Gustinelli Andrea , Vignali Viola , Segati Sara , D’Acunto Simone , Brandi Silvia , Crespo-Picazo José Luìs , Marcer Federica
Published: July 2023

Balenophilus manatorum (Copepoda: Harpaticoida) is one of the few components of the epibiontic fauna of Caretta caretta that show a “true” parasitic association with their host. From rrosive to ulcerative cutaneous lesions may seldom appear as a consequence of the copepod feeding on keratin on turtles’ skin. Debilitating Turtle Syndrome (DTS) is the final outcome of a chronic insufficient assumption of nutrients, generally occurring with the impairment of immune functions and high epibiota burdens. In this survey, the presence of B. manatorum in C. caretta from the Northwestern Adriatic Sea was investigated and the relation between infection indices and the co-occurrence of DTS was studied. Clinical examination was performed at the time of rescue, including routine hematological assessment; external parasites were isolated mechanically from turtles’ skin and morphologically identified through observation with an optic microscope and SEM. Ten turtles were classified as affected by DTS, all of them being small juveniles with typical clinical and clinicopathological presentation. A higher prevalence, abundance, and density of infection were found in turtles affected by the syndrome. The presence of massive skin coverage by the burrowing barnacle Pletylepas hexastylos prevented a proper evaluation of the pathology associated with B. manatorum in turtles affected by DTS. In any event, eventual skin damages caused by the parasite may represent a port of entry for secondary infections in such immunocompromised animals. Therefore, infection by B. manatorum should not go overlooked in debilitated turtles and should be opportunely treated.
Age-Related Differences in Testosterone Concentration and Its Relation to Testicular Biometrics, Hemodynamics, and Fertility in Alpacas (Vicugna pacos)
Authors: Pérez-Durand Manuel G. , Massa-Guzmán Angela , Luque-Mamani Natalio , Ruelas-Calloapaza Domingo A. , Urviola-Sánchez Jesús M. , Condori-Chuchi Eloy A. , Gutiérrez-Reinoso Miguel A. , Perez-Guerra Uri H. , García-Herreros Manuel
Published: July 2023

The goal of this study was to investigate the age-related differences in testosterone concentration and its relation to testicular biometrics, testicular blood flow, and fertility in alpacas (Vicugna pacos). Fifteen alpaca males with different ages (young (YM; ~12–14 mo.), n = 5; intermediate (IM; ~24 mo.), n = 5; and old (OM; ≥36 mo.), n = 5) were enrolled in the study. Blood samples were taken from each alpaca male and the circulating plasmatic testosterone concentration (TC; ng/mL) was determined using ELISA analysis. The testicular traits related to bio-morphometric parameters (the length (L), width (W), area (A), and volume (TV)) were assessed using B-mode ultrasonography. Pulse-wave/power Doppler ultrasonography was used to obtain the circulatory dynamic values (testicular hemodynamics) before the beginning of natural service mating. Significant differences were observed in TC among the age groups, increasing as the age of the males increased (2.47 ± 0.31, 8.45 ± 1.53, and 22.66 ± 2.15 for YM, IM, and OM, respectively; p < 0.05); however, no differences were observed regarding the testicular B-mode ultrasonographic parameters (L, W, and A) (p > 0.05). Positive correlations were observed between TV and testicular L, W, and A (r = 0.96, r = 0.95, and r = 0.96, respectively; p ≤ 0.001). Pulse-wave-Doppler-derived parameters such as the pulsatility index (PI) and the resistive index (RI), as well as the total vascularity area (TVA) assessed by power Doppler, were similar in all of the age groups studied (p > 0.05). General linear model (GLM) analysis showed a relationship between TC and TV (OR = 0.95; p = 0.04), as well as between TC and TVA (OR = 0.99; p= 0.02). Finally, no differences were observed regarding the pregnancy rate among the different age groups (p > 0.05). In conclusion, TC increased as the age of the alpaca males increased. Although TC was related to TV and TVA, the pregnancy rates obtained from individuals belonging to the different age groups were similar, indicating that TC, TV, and TVA were not determining factors in assessing the potential age-related fertility differences in alpaca males.
Porcine Sapovirus in Northern Vietnam: Genetic Detection and Characterization Reveals Co-Circulation of Multiple Genotypes
Authors: Dong Hieu Van , Truong Thai Ha , Tran Giang Thi Huong , Rapichai Witsanu , Rattanasrisomporn Amonpun , Choowongkomon Kiattawee , Rattanasrisomporn Jatuporn
Published: July 2023

Porcine sapovirus (PoSaV) has been reported in many countries over the world, which may cause gastroenteritis symptoms in pigs with all ages. There has been no report on PoSaV infection in Vietnam up to now. In this study, a total of 102 samples were collected from piglets, fattening pigs, and sows with diarrhea in several cities and provinces in northern Vietnam. The PoSaV genome was examined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Sequencing of the partial RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene sequences (324 bp) was performed. Of the 102 tested samples, 10 (9.8%) and 7/20 (35%) were detected as positive for the PoSaV RdRp gene using the PCR method at the individual and farm levels, respectively. Genetic analysis of the partial RdRp gene region of about 324 bp indicated that the nucleotide identity of the current 10 Vietnamese viral strains ranged from 61.39% to 100%. Among the 10 strains obtained, 8 belonged to genotype III and the remaining 2 strains were clustered in genotype VIII. The Vietnamese genotype III viruses formed two sub-clusters. The Vietnamese PoSaV strains were closely related to PoSaVs reported in South Korea, Venezuela, and the Netherlands. This research was the first to describe PoSaV infection in northern Vietnam during 2022–2023.
Metabolic Markers Associated with Progression of Type 2 Diabetes Induced by High-Fat Diet and Single Low Dose Streptozotocin in Rats
Authors: Andonova Maria , Dzhelebov Petko , Trifonova Krastina , Yonkova Penka , Kostadinov Nikola , Nancheva Krasimira , Ivanov Veselin , Gospodinova Krasimira , Nizamov Nikola , Tsachev Ilia , Chernev Chavdar
Published: July 2023

Science is still searching for readily available, cost-effective biomarkers to assess metabolic disorders occurring before the onset and during the development of type-2 diabetes (T2DM). The aim of the present study was to induce T2DM in rats through a high-fat diet, followed by a single administration of low dose streptozotocin (STZ), and make an assessment of the development of the disease. The rats were divided into two groups—experimental and control—and were monitored for a period of 10 days. Changes in anthropometric parameters, glucose, insulin, lipids, uric acid, advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), as well as the histological changes in the liver and pancreas, were recorded. To assess insulin resistance, we used the Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) and beta cell function (HOMA-β) and visceral obesity—adiposity index (AI). The data demonstrate that the increasing values of glucose, HOMA-IR, AI, total cholesterol, triacylglycerols, low- and very-low-density lipoproteins are important markers of the pre-diabetic state. The stable hyperglycemia and increased levels of TC, TG, VLDL, LDL, uric acid and AOPP in experimental rats strongly suggest the development of T2DM. HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, AI, and uric acid are reliable criteria for T2DM in rats.
Protective Effects of Bacillus subtilis HH2 against Oral Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli in Beagles
Authors: Yang Jinpeng , Zhang Xinyue , Zhou Ziyao , Li Caiwu , Luo Run , Liu Haifeng , Fu Hualin , Zhong Zhijun , Shen Liuhong , Cao Suizhong , Luo Yan , Li Desheng , Peng Guangneng
Published: July 2023

This study evaluated the protective effect of Bacillus subtilis HH2 on beagles orally challenged with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC). We assessed the physiological parameters and the severity of diarrhea, as well as the changes in three serum immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, and IgM), plasma diamine oxidase (DAO), D-lactate (D-LA), and the fecal microbiome. Feeding B. subtilis HH2 significantly reduced the severity of diarrhea after the ETEC challenge (p < 0.05) and increased serum levels of IgG, IgA, and IgM (p < 0.01). B. subtilis HH2 administration also reduced serum levels of DAO at 48 h after the ETEC challenge (p < 0.05), but no significant changes were observed in D-LA (p > 0.05). Oral ETEC challenge significantly reduced the richness and diversity of gut microbiota in beagles not pre-fed with B. subtilis HH2 (p < 0.05), while B. subtilis HH2 feeding and oral ETEC challenge significantly altered the gut microbiota structure of beagles (p < 0.01). Moreover, 14 days of B. subtilis HH2 feeding reduced the relative abundance of Deinococcus-Thermus in feces. This study reveals that B. subtilis HH2 alleviates diarrhea caused by ETEC, enhances non-specific immunity, reduces ETEC-induced damage to the intestinal mucosa, and regulates gut microbiota composition.
Formation of an algorithm to ensure the minimum amount of buried solid municipal waste
Authors:   Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Popov Aleksey Anatolievich
Published: July 2023

The article is devoted to research in the field of automation of management of sorting, recycling, reusing, and disposing of municipal solid waste. Hierarchies of work with municipal solid waste and the results of their processing are considered. An algorithm to ensure the minimization of the amount of disposed municipal solid waste has been developed. The sequence of work of the algorithm operators is considered.
Modern approaches to assessing companies’ financial stability
Authors:   VTB (PJSC), research scientist, lecturer, St. Petersburg, Prasolov Maksim Vyacheslavovich
Published: July 2023

The article deals with the concept and essence of financial stability in the framework of the current economic situation. The main indicators that form the level of financial stability are considered. The advantages and disadvantages of responsible and foreign approaches to the formation of indicators characterizing the level of financial stability of organizations in the commercial sector are analyzed. The indicators recommended by the IMF in assessing financial stability and their relationship with the approaches considered earlier have been studied.
The impact of sanctions on the investment attractiveness of Russian companies
Authors:   Investment Company Veles Capital LLC, Moscow University for the Humanities, Zhukov Andrey Andreevich
Published: July 2023

The article discusses the reasons for the importance of investment for active economic growth. The main factors that form the low level of investment attractiveness of Russia for investment at the present time are studied. Statistical indicators that characterize the participation of foreign investors in the domestic economy, as well as the main consequences of the expansion of the sanctions policy of Western countries from the perspective of Russian companies are analyzed.
Features of the organization of work and management in the prosecutor's office in foreign countries
Authors:   Faculty of Law, Moscow University for the Humanities, Alyulina Veronika Igorevna
Published: July 2023

The article analyzes the features of the organization of work and management in the prosecutor's office in some foreign countries. In particular, attention is paid to the American, European and African structure of the prosecutor's office, on the basis of the analysis of which the main approaches to the organization of the prosecutor's office in foreign countries as a whole are highlighted.
Social partnerships between public authorities and religious organizations
Authors:   Institute of Philosophy, Religion and Socio-Political Research, National Academy of Sciences of the Kyrgyz Republic, Saralaev Nur Kerimkulovich , Salmorbekova, Rita Bobuevna ,   Institute of Philosophy, Religion and Socio-Political Research, National Academy of Sciences of the Kyrgyz Republic, Ibraev Mirlan Ermekovich ,   Institute of Philosophy, Religion and Socio-Political Research, National Academy of Sciences of the Kyrgyz Republic
Published: July 2023

This article provides an analysis of the Concept of the State Policy of the Kyrgyz Republic in the religious sphere for 2021–2026, reveals the role of religion in the development of the country, and raises the problems of the implementation of the Decree of the President of the Kyrgyz Republic. The new Concept defines the principles and mechanisms of interaction among state bodies, local self-government bodies, religious associations and communities, as well as other institutions of civil society. To ensure the social partnership of religious organizations in the implementation of state policy, mechanisms of dialogue and interaction are being introduced on the basis of the Concept. They are based on the formation of sustainable dialogue platforms with the participation of all parties interested in this matter.
Socio-psychological analysis of education and science
Authors:   Department of Social Psychology and Social Work, FSBEI HE Ryazan State University named after S.A. Yesenin, Sukhov Anatoliy Nikolaevich
Published: July 2023

This article reveals the relevance of the problem associated with the development of social psychology of education and science as a branch. The article examines the essence of the socio-psychological approach to understanding social psychology of education and science. It analyzes the results of the reforms, as well as the difficulties that occur in the reconstruction of the history of formation, definition of the concept, subject, structure, and functions of social psychology of education and science. Therefore, it is not a coincidence that the most important task is to create a full-fledged theory of social psychology of education and science. Social psychology of science is an integral part of social psychology of education and science. There is still a lot to be done, both in theoretical and applied terms, to fully formalize social psychology of education and science as a branch.
MIDLINE HERNIAS: AXIOMS AND CURRENT SURGICAL TRENDS
Authors: Sergatskiy Konstantin Igorevich , Korobov Artem Vladimirovich , Nikol'skiy Valeriy Isaakovich , Romanova Valeriya Sergeevna , Titova Ekaterina Valer'evna , Ivachev Aleksandr Semenovich
Published: July 2023

Midline hernia is a pathological condition that is characterized by a protrusion of some internal organs through the holes in the aponeurotic plate of the abdominal raphe.
The presented analytical study provides information on the likely risk factors for hernia formation, the assessment of which remains relevant today. Besides, the authors examine diagnosis and classification of midline hernias and describe the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed surgical methods of hernia treatment. Despite a large number of proposed surgical methods for midline hernia correction and treatment, all of them have certain disadvantages, mainly associated with a high incidence of reherniation and postoperative complications. The choice between the proposed methods of hernia orifice closure and intraoperative midline strengthening to prevent reherniation is important for any surgeon.
The information search for the literature review was performed on the platforms elibrary.ru and pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
The Factors That Influence the Involvement of Youth in Pennsylvania 4-H Extension District 16 Livestock Programs
Authors: Weikert Ben , Hoover Tracy , Radhakrishna Rama , Swinkler Ann
Published: July 2023

The study reported in this article determined the factors that influence the involvement of 4-H members in Pennsylvania 4-H District 16 livestock programs. The study used a descriptive research design. A survey was distributed to all 4-H livestock club (beef, sheep, swine, and goat club) members within the counties that comprise Penn State Extension District 16 (Adams, Franklin, and York counties). The major findings of the study align with previous research as parents were found to be the most significant influence in their children's involvement with 4-H. The financial cost of participation was the biggest limitation of involvement.
Farmers' Engagement with Community Food Insecurity: Approaches, Perspectives, and Implications for Extension
Authors: Schattman Rachel , Berlin Linda , Bochner Francesca , Lawrence Maija
Published: July 2023

Hunger is an issue of growing concern nationwide, and farmers can play a critical role in helping individuals and families gain access to healthy, fresh, locally produced food. In 2011, we conducted interviews with 12 Vermont farmers who provide local food to low-income Vermonters through a wide array of activities including sale, donation, or other means. By better understanding how and why farmers work to address hunger in communities, Extension professionals can better support them to achieve the dual goals of food security and farm viability.
College Transition Study Shows 4-H Helps Youth Prepare for and Succeed in College
Authors: Ratkos Judy , Knollenberg Lauren
Published: July 2023

Many young adults enter college without the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed. The purpose of the study reported here was to determine if 4-H helps develop life skills needed for the transition to college and overall college success. An online survey was sent to college-attending 4-H alumni and a comparison group, with a final sample size of 268 students. Results showed 4-H alumni rated significantly higher than the comparison group on six life skills constructs. These findings can be used to show 4-H program impact and how 4-H participation helps young people prepare for and succeed in college
Using Consumer Input to Guide the Development of a Nutrition and Health Website
Authors: Bellows Laura , Clifford Jessica , Shackelton Elisa
Published: July 2023

Consumers want timely, research-based information available online. The project objective was to develop a user-friendly nutrition and health website for Colorado Extension consumers. An electronic survey (n=381) was administered to current and potential Extension consumers to understand their: use of the Web and electronic devices; topics of interest; and preferred mode of information delivery. Results, in conjunction with best practices for website usability and health literacy, were used to develop the Live Eat Play Colorado website. Audience-centered websites with content packaged in small doses and delivered via multiple modalities may enhance reach and use of university and Extension resources.
Farm-to-Hospital Research Findings Point to Opportunities for Extension
Authors: Raison Brian
Published: July 2023

Extension has a history of local foods programming around farm to institution. But connections with hospitals, an industry sector with significant potential for increased local food purchasing, appear limited. Hospital outreach could provide inroads for patient and employee education around healthy eating. But does Extension know how to engage healthcare foodservice? Do hospital foodservice directors have knowledge of Extension? This article focuses on intersections at which Extension can approach hospitals to help improve health and the economy through local foods. It is based on findings excerpted from a comprehensive Ohio hospital foodservice director study (n=155) conducted in late 2014.
4-H and the Maker Movement
Authors: Hill Paul , Francis Dave , Peterson Gaelynn
Published: July 2023

The Maker Movement is thriving, and 4-H programs have the opportunity to get involved and keep 4-H relevant. "Making" is gaining traction as a strategy to engage young people in building their science abilities. Collectively joining the Maker Movement would accelerate 4-H's national STEM goals and initiatives while enhancing the abilities of youth as they make innovative breakthroughs.
Modernizing Training Options for Natural Areas Managers
Authors: Friedl Sarah , Ober Holly , Stein Taylor , Andreu Michael
Published: July 2023

A recent shift in desires among working professionals from traditional learning environments to distance education has emerged due to reductions in travel and training budgets. To accommodate this, the Natural Areas Training Academy replaced traditionally formatted workshops with a hybrid approach. Surveys of participants before and after this change indicate that a traditional in-person format was preferred in the past, but a hybrid format is preferred now. Respondents indicated the new format is more effective at providing highly desired benefits than the traditional face-to-face approach. These findings have implications for many Extension programs targeting working professionals across large geographic areas.
Knowledge Gained from Good Agricultural Practices Courses for Iowa Growers
Authors: Shaw Angela , Strohbehn Catherine , Naeve Linda , Domoto Paul , Wilson Lester
Published: July 2023

Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) educational courses provide produce growers with the fundamental information for producing and processing safe produce. To determine the effectiveness of the current 7-hour GAP course provided in Iowa, growers were surveyed before and 7-14 days after the course to determine changes in knowledge and opinions. Results show that growers positively changed their knowledge and opinions on key food safety principles and regulations, which provides evidence that Extension programming is an effective method to educate small growers. Food safety educators should focus their training on practical methods for documentation, sanitation, and facilities.
What Is the Difference Between a Calorie and a Carbohydrate?—Exploring Nutrition Education Opportunities in Alternative School Settings
Authors: Norquest Michele , Phelps Josh , Hermann Janice , Kennedy Tay
Published: July 2023

Extension-based nutrition educators have indicated current curricula do not engage alternative school students' interests. The study reported here explored nutrition education opportunities at alternative schools in Oklahoma. Data collection involved focus groups gathering student perspectives regarding preferred teaching and learning styles, and nutrition topics of interest. Twenty-four students 15-18 years of age participated in the project. Students are interested in receiving nutrition education using practical approaches; experiential learning was the preferred learning style facilitated by hands-on teaching. Opportunities exist for Extension programming to meaningfully address nutrition-related issues in alternative schools by delivering participant-centered lessons using tailored materials and delivery methods.
Regionalization of the Washington State University Extension 4-H Youth Development Program: Employee Awareness, Buy-In, and Communication
Authors: White Alison , Teuteberg Dan
Published: July 2023

Washington's 4-H program is transitioning from a predominately single-county faculty model to a regional system. This article highlights survey results regarding the level of awareness and buy-in that Extension administration, faculty, and staff have concerning the regional model and how communication about the model took place. While most employees were aware of the change, the majority learned through informal conversation, either alone or in combination with formal communication. Those who learned through both formal and informal methods felt more knowledgeable and more comfortable assessing the model's merit. Our research recommends that administrators purposefully emphasize formal communication during staffing model transitions.
Understanding Public Engagement in Water Conservation Behaviors and Knowledge of Water Policy: Promising Hints for Extension
Authors: Huang Pei , Lamm Alexa
Published: July 2023

Sustaining water resources is a primary issue facing Florida Extension. The study reported here identified how experience with water issues and familiarity with water policies affected individuals' engagement in water conservation behaviors. A public opinion survey was conducted online to capture Florida residents' responses. The findings indicated experience with water issues and familiarity with water policies were predictors of individuals' engagement in civic water conservation behaviors. Given this, Extension educators developing programs and educational materials about water conservation behaviors should cover information related to water policies because participants will be more inclined to engage if they are familiar with policies.