bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Test and Identification Analysis of Wear Response Signal of Contact Interface of Rotary Seal
Authors: Lu Junjie , Zheng Shize , Zhang Xuechang , Hou Yaochun
Published: May 2024

The wear state of mechanical seal friction pair directly determines the reliability of mechanical seal. In this paper, the mapping mechanism between contact wear response and acoustic emission (AE) energy signal of friction pair is indicatively proposed, and the relationship between wear frequency and time-averaged wear is explored. First of all, AE sensors are arranged on the mechanical seal friction test-bed, static and dynamic friction tests are carried out on the contact form of M106K-WC (graphite-cemented carbide) and WC-WC, the AE energy signal data are collected, and the wear amount of the two groups of friction pairs is measured; then, the friction and wear signals are separated and reprocessed by time-frequency analysis. The results show that the static wear response frequency (SWRF) of M106K -WC is about 70 ± 10 kHz, the SWRF of WC-WC is about 90 ± 10 kHz, and the dynamic wear response frequency (DWRF) of WC-WC is about 175 ± 10 kHz;. At the same time, the root mean square of DWRF is positively correlated with the wear amount. According to the research results, it is inferred that there is a difference between the quasi-static wear frequency and the dynamic wear frequency of the friction pair, there is a great correlation between the dynamic wear frequency and the material pair, and the working condition has little influence on the wear frequency. the mapping relationship between AE signal and time-averaged wear of friction pair is revealed.
Moderate-to-severe sleep disturbance is associated with higher cardiovascular risk among aging rural Indians
Authors: Rai Pooja , Sundarakumar Jonas S.
Published: May 2024

Disturbed sleep could be associated with adverse health effects including a potentially increased risk for cardiovascular disease. However, there is a dearth of research on this topic among aging Indians, particularly from rural areas. This study aimed to cross-sectionally examine the relationship between self-reported sleep disturbance (assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index) and cardiovascular risk (assessed using the Framingham Cardiovascular Risk Score) in a large sample (n = 2838) of aging, non-demented, Indians from the villages of Srinivaspura (Karnataka) in southern India. Linear regression models were used to assess the above association, adjusting for potential confounders, such as age, gender, Body Mass Index (BMI), tobacco use, alcohol use, depression and number of comorbidities. We found that in the fully adjusted model, subjects with moderate-to-severe sleep disturbance had twice the odds of CVD risk as compared to those with no sleep disturbance (AOR: 2.17, CI:1.14–4.13). Early identification and management of sleep disturbance using lifestyle management, better sleep hygiene and in some cases, medication could be a cost-effective, public health strategy to reduce cardiovascular risk.
FUR-HABE:A Hierarchical CP-ABE Scheme with Traceable Fine-grained User Revocation for Cloud Storage
Authors: Yang Xiaohui , Tao Ya'nan
Published: May 2024

An effective method to protect cloud data is access control. But, the efficiency of key distribution by a single authority is low, and it is difficult to achieve dynamic attribute revocation when system properties are shared by multiple users. Existing attribute revocation mechanisms face challenges in terms of functional complexity and computational efficiency, which hinder their practical application. To address these issues, this paper put forward a Hierarchical CP-ABE scheme with Traceable Fine-grained User Revocation for Cloud Storage (FUR-HABE). In this scheme, most of the decryption calculations are outsourced to cloud servers. It employs a layered key authorization mechanism to provide flexible and scalable key delegation. Additionally, the scheme supports key encapsulation key (KEK) attribute revocation and user revocation to accommodate different revocation needs, enabling flexible revocation. Experimental results show that the proposed scheme is proven to be IND-CPA secure under the chosen plaintext attack strategy based on the decision-making q-BDHE assumption in the standard model. Compared to related work, this scheme exhibits superiority.
Parameter optimization method of injection molding process based on genetic algorithm and support vector machine regression
Authors: Shan Zhi
Published: May 2024

In response to the prevalent reliance on engineer experience for the adjustment of injection molding process parameters, this study presents an innovative approach which combines Genetic Algorithms (GA) and Support Vector Machine Regression (SVR) to address this challenge. The input variables consist of the process parameters, while the output variable pertains to defects in the molded product. SVR is employed to construct predictive models for these defects, subsequently serving as the fitness function within the GA framework. GA, in turn, is utilized to iteratively determine the optimal injection molding process parameters. To alleviate issues related to overfitting and underfitting, the SVR prediction model was optimized using PSO in combination with five-fold cross-validation. Through this iterative optimization, the SVR model is improved, thereby improving its prediction accuracy. A case study involving automobile mesh confirms the method's effectiveness in reducing defects, showcasing its industrial applicability.
Two-dimensional Czochralski growth of single-crystal MoS2
Authors: Zhang Yue , Jiang He , Zhang Xiankun , Chen Kuanglei , He Xiaoyu , Liu Yihe , Gao Li , Yu Huihui , Hong Mengyu , Wang Yunan , Zhang Zheng
Published: May 2024

Batch production of single-crystal two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides is one prerequisite for the fabrication of next-generation integrated circuits (IC). Contemporary strategies for the wafer-scale high-quality crystallinity of 2D materials center on merging the unidirectionally aligned different size domains. However, the imperfectly merged area with translational lattice brings about high defect density and low device uniformity, which restricts the application of 2D materials. Here, we take the lead in establishing the 2D Czochralski method that can rapidly grow wafer-scale, single-crystal MoS2 with no grain boundaries. The method relies on a liquid-liquid interface spreading mechanism, which eventually realizes the Czochralski method in 2D materials growth. Specifically, a 2D intermediate liquid (Na2Mo2O7) film is formed through a eutectic reaction on an atomically smooth surface before sulfurization, leading to an ultralow nucleation density, an ultrafast crystallization rate (75 μm s-1), and thus producing large single-crystal MoS2 with the record domain size larger than 1.5 cm. Meanwhile, the 2D Czochralski method produces an ultra-clean, fast, and high-quality transfer process facilitated by the significantly reduced adhesion between the MoS2 crystal and the atomically smooth substrate. The obtained MoS2 large single-crystal shows superb uniformity and high quality with an ultralow defect density of 2.9×1012 cm-2, a high mobility of 105.4 cm2 V-1 s-1, and a saturation current of 443.8 μA μm-1 in the short-channel devices. A statistical analysis of 192 field-effect transistors within a centimeter-scale domain showed a 96.4% device yield and a 15.9% variation in mobility with a minimal variation of 15.9%, positioning itself as an advanced standard monolayer MoS2 device. This 2D Czochralski method provides fruitful implications for fabricating high-quality and scalable 2D semiconductor materials and devices.
Impact of sustainability reporting initiatives on the financial performance of Philippine listed companies
Authors: Troy Chua Kevin , Byun Hae-Young
Published: May 2024

Concerns for the environment and sustainability require entities to contribute to societal development toward sustainable advancement. There is also an increasing demand for high-quality and reliable reports on sustainability-related matters. The study aims to highlight the impact of sustainability reporting initiatives on financial performance through the GRI reporting framework and four determinants of financial performance – return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), and basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS). Conducting random effects generalized least square (GLS) regression, this paper examines 127 firm-year observations from 47 Philippine listed entities covering 2019–2021. The results show a significant negative relationship between the total sustainability reporting initiative index score and financial performance, represented by return on equity (coefficient = –0.4690, z-value = –1.68). Moreover, there is a positive significant relationship between economic reporting and financial performance, particularly return on assets, basic earnings per share, and diluted earnings per share (coefficients = 0.1590, 12.6200, 12.6500; z-values = 3.11, 1.72, 1.73). A negative significant relationship exists between social reporting and financial performance, particularly return on equity and basic and diluted earnings per share (coefficients = –0.5530, –14.1600, –14.1400; z-values = –2.04, –2.65, –2.65). This study pioneers an investigation into the nascent implementation of Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) sustainability reporting and the implications of sustainability initiatives on corporate performance in the Philippines. The results shed light on the dynamics of sustainability initiatives and financial outcomes to encourage firms to harmonize economic success with environmental preservation and societal advancement toward value creation.
Platelet link of hemostasis in polymorbid patients with acute coronary syndrome and COVID-19
Authors: Kadnikov L. I. , Izmozherova N. V. , Popov A. A. , Antropova I. P.
Published: May 2024

Introduction. Platelets play an important role in arterial thrombosis, and the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on platelets contribute to an increased risk of thrombosis.

Aim. To evaluate platelet link of hemostasis system and polymorbidity in patients with acute coronary syndrome and COVID-19 at the time of admission to the hospital.

Materials and methods. The case-control study included 96 pairs of patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The groups were adjusted by gender, age and diagnosis of ACS. Group 1 had ACS and COVID-19, Group 2 had ACS without COVID-19. Blood indicators were examined using the Mindray BC-5150 and ABX Micros-60 automatic hematology analyzers, the results of which were comparable Statistica 13.0 environment was used for statistical processing. The study was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of Ural State Medical University by Protocol No. 9 dated 10.22.2021.

Results. Platelet level (PLT) was 242 (178÷299) x 109/L Group 1 and 236 (199÷291) x 109/L, in Group 2, p = 0.927. Mean platelet volume (MPV) was 10.0 (9.3÷11.5) fl in Group 1 and 8.0 (7.6÷8.8) fl, in Group 2, p < 0.001. Platelet distribution width (PDW) was 16.2 (15.9÷16.4) in Group 1, and 15.7 (14.7÷16.7) in Group 2, p < 0.001. Plateletcrit (PCT) was 0.24 (0.18÷0.30)% in Group 1 and 0.19 (0.16÷0.24)% in Group 2, p < 0.001. Platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) 159.4 (109.5÷232.9) in Group 1 and 118.4 (88.2÷158.1) in Group 2, p < 0.001. The Charlson polymorbidity index in Group 1 was 5 (4÷6) points, in Group 2 – 4 (4÷6) points, p = 0.047.

Conclusions. Higher PDW, MPV, PCT values with the same PLT, higher PLR level and higher polymorbidity at the time of hospitalization may indicate more pronounced platelet activation due to inflammation, severe immunosuppression and concomitant diseases in patients with COVID-19.
Acute respiratory infections of the upper respiratory tract, aspects of mucoactive therapy
Authors: Korkmazov M. Yu. , Kornova N. V. , Lengina M. A. , Korkmazov A. M.
Published: May 2024

Introduction. Acute laryngotracheitis occurs at any age and is a complication of acute respiratory infection with a frequency of up to 40%. One of the main clinical symptoms is an unproductive paroxysmal cough. According to the literature, phytotherapy is a safe and effective part of conservative therapy and is included in clinical recommendations.

Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of the use of mucolytic phytopreparations in the treatment of acute respiratory infection complicated by laryngotracheitis.

Materials and methods. A randomized simple controlled clinical trial was conducted in which 74 patients aged 18 to 45 years with acute laryngitis complicated by laryngotracheitis participated. All patients were randomly divided into 3 groups: group 1 (n = 24) received standard conservative therapy without mucolytic expectorants; group 2 (n = 25) – standard conservative therapy and acetylcysteine; group 3 (n = 25) – standard therapy using a herbal preparation based on ivy leaf extract in the form of syrup. Assessment of the severity of the main clinical symptoms and quality of life was carried out on the 5th, 7th and 10th day of therapy.

Conclusions. The use of ivy leaf extract, which has a mucolytic and expectorant effect in complex therapy in patients with acute laryngotracheitis against the background of acute respiratory viral infection, allowed us to obtain stable positive dynamics in a shorter time (5th day of treatment) with the disappearance of all the main clinical symptoms on the 7th day.
Topical therapy of acute viral rhinosinusitis in case of incomplete epithelialization of surgical wound during the long-term period of adenoid surgery
Authors: Kiselev A. B. , Chaukina V. A. , Krasnov V. A. , Ikonnikova E. V.
Published: May 2024

Acute respiratory infection (ARI) of the upper respiratory tract with incomplete epithelialization of the nasopharynx after surgery of the pharyngeal tonsil using cold sodium plasma is a little-studied problem.

Aim. To evaluate the clinical efficacy and adequacy of topical therapy of acute viral rhinosinusitis with 2% silver proteinate (Sialor® preparation, tablets for preparation of a solution for topical use, 200 mg, in a bottle with a spray nozzle) instead of using systemic and local antibiotic therapy in the period of incomplete epithelialization of an operating wound after surgical treatment of chronic adenoiditis associated with hypertrophy of the pharyngeal tonsil, by physical factors of destruction of lymphadenoid tissue.

Materials and methods. We observed 64 patients who underwent surgical intervention in the site of the pharyngeal tonsil using different techniques. The epithelization status of the surgical wound in the nasopharynx was visualized using 2.4 mm flexible rhino-laryngo fiberscope examination of the nasopharynx performed on postoperative days 10, 20 and 30. We assessed the frequency rates of ARI during the first month follow-up period and the features of the clinical course of ARI according to the patient’s diary. The treatment included on-demand topical therapy with decongestants and Sialor (2% silver proteinate). Results and discussion. The duration of ARI and the severity of nasal symptoms are comparable to the course of mild to moderate ARI in children with preserved pharyngeal tonsil.

Conclusion. Sialor topical therapy is an adequate choice instead of local and systemic antibiotic therapy to suppress the pathogenic microflora activity in ARI, to provide a local anti-inflammatory effect during the long-term period of pharyngeal tonsil surgery with incomplete epithelization. The incomplete epithelization of the nasopharynx is not an indication to administer systemic antibiotics in the presence of signs of ARI of the upper respiratory tract after pharyngeal tonsil surgery.
Chronic nonspecific pharyngitis: еtiopathogenesis and treatment Issues (questionnaire data and literature review)
Authors: Shakhova M. A. , Fokeev V. A. , Svistushkin V. M. , Shakhov A. V.
Published: May 2024

Chronic nonspecific pharyngitis (CNP) is an extremely common pathology, but there are no consensus documents regulating the diagnosis and treatment of CNP. We compiled a questionnaire with a list of questions on the problem of CNF, distributed a google form among practitioners and conducted a survey with subsequent analysis of the answers. Then, a search and analysis of scientific works on this topic was carried out on the platforms PubMed, eLibrary.Ru, CyberLeninka, as well as in other open Internet sources. The data of the survey of specialists are compared with the results of the literature review. Therapeutic and diagnostic approaches in CNF are largely determined by the traditional ways of life of a medical institution. This fact, as well as the lack of regulatory documents on the problem of CNF, makes it difficult to competently diagnose and choose an adequate treatment tactics for this disease. The results of the study suggest that CF should be considered as a multifactorial disease, paying attention to the comorbid profile of the patient. The vast majority of respondents consider gastroesophageal reflux and other gastroenterological diseases to be the main predisposing factors. This is confirmed by the literature, and the specialists interviewed by us suggest that the main bias should be made to the assessment of complaints, anamnesis, and pharyngoscopy. Therapy of CNF with the use of only topical drugs is prescribed everywhere, but does not give the desired result. It is necessary to have a multi-stage treatment aimed at eliminating predisposing factors and correcting local changes with the involvement of not only otorhinolaryngologists, but also doctors of other specialties (gastroenterologists, endocrinologists, psychiatrists and neurologists).
Antiseptic and hygienic preparation of patients for ear surgery with an endaural approach
Authors: Suaifan W. H.A. , Eremeeva K. V. , Morozova S. V.
Published: May 2024

Introduction. Optimization of preoperative preparation protocols in otosurgery can reduce intraand postoperative infectious complications, improve surgical outcomes, which is important for the rehabilitation of patients with ear diseases.

Aim. To determine the effectiveness of antiseptic and hygienic preoperative preparation of the surgical field during endaural otosurgical interventions.

Materials and methods. The randomized study included 183 patients who underwent surgery via the endaural approach. The first part of the study evaluated the effect of 10% povidone-iodine solution treatment on the skin microbiome; the second part evaluated the need for ear canal depilation and before surgery and compared the methods.

Results. Examination of skin microbiota of the external auditory canal in 85% revealed the growth of microorganisms:

Staphylococcus – 115 (85.5%), fungal growth – 6 (4.4%), Corynebacterium – 8 (5.9%), etc. Microbial growth was not detected in 15%. Antiseptic treatment with 10% Povidone-iodine solution with endaural access reduces the degree of contamination and suppresses the growth of microorganisms in more than one third of patients. Inflammatory changes of the postoperative wound correspond to the degree of inflammation IA in both control and study groups. After depilation, visualization was assessed as optimal in 100% of cases and no inflammatory reactions were found. Average depilation time with scissors 113 sec, with an ear trimmer 32 sec.

Conclusions. Preoperative antiseptic preparation reduces microbial contamination of the skin via endaural access, with no significant impact on wound healing process in the postoperative period. Depilation improved the view of the operative field in 100% of cases. Depilation with an ear trimmer is 3.5 times faster than with scissors.
Terlipressin using for intraoperative bleeding reduction during endoscopic rhinosinus surgery
Authors: Arustamyan I. G. , Pavlov V. E. , Polushin Yu. S. , Karpishchenko S. A. , Stancheva O. A. , Efimenko G. A.
Published: May 2024

Introduction. Endoscopic rhinosinus surgery stands out for its reduced complications and marked symptomatic improvement compared to open surgical approaches. However, local bleeding challenges may compromise the efficacy of minimally invasive procedures. Exploring terlipressin’s application in endoscopic rhinosinus surgery is a promising avenue, given its mechanism of action and successful use in obstetric and other medical practices.

Aim. This study aimed to assess terlipressin’s efficacy in reducing intraoperative bleeding during endoscopic rhinosinus surgical interventions under general anesthesia.

Materials and methods. A prospective randomized cohort study included 170 cases of endoscopic rhinosinus surgical interventions. The BT group (n = 89) received no terlipressin, while the T group (n = 81) had 200 mcg of terlipressin during surgery. Bleeding intensity was assessed on a 6-point scale. Heart rate, blood pressure, perfusion index, and bleeding intensity were recorded at 10th, 30th, and 60th minute into the operation (study points). Bleeding intensity ≥2 points was considered significant. Results. In the T group, mean BP was significantly higher at all study points than in the BT group. Perfusion index values in the terlipressin group were significantly lower throughout. ROC analysis highlighted perfusion index’s prognostic value at 30th and 60th minutes for predicting significant bleeding. Threshold perfusion index values associated with increased bleeding probability were 4.520 at 30th minutes and 5.040 at 60th minute. Multifactorial analysis linked intraoperative terlipressin administration to a lower likelihood of significant intraoperative bleeding.

Conclusion. Intravenous terlipressin (200 mcg) effectively reduces intraoperative bleeding intensity without lowering arterial pressure during endoscopic rhinosinus surgical interventions under general anesthesia.
Antibacterial therapy in patients with acute sinusitis
Authors: Kochetkov P. A. , Shchennikova E. S. , Shabanova Z. O.
Published: May 2024

The prevalence of the acute sinusitis in ENT practice is very high. The current prevalence in Russian Federation is roughly estimated at 6 to 15%, and accounts for about 10 million cases a year. The incidence of acute sinusitis increases in autumn and early spring and decreases in the summer. Most cases of acute sinusitis are of a viral etiology, but it can also arise from bacterial infection, allergies, or injuries. The disease is characterized by swelling of the nasal mucous membrane, nasal blockage and discharge. Typically, the duration of acute inflammation of the paranasal sinuses averages about 4 weeks. In case of the inappropriate treatment, the inflammatory process can spread to adjacent anatomical structures – to the orbit, ear, or brain, resulting in serious, sometimes life-threatening complications. Over the last 10 years, the resistance of pathogenic flora to antimicrobial agents has greatly increased due to the unjustifiability and irrationality of their use. The purpose of this review was to analyze the effectiveness and safety of the antibiotic therapy for acute rhinosinusitis. The paper discusses the etiology, pathogenesis, and characteristics of the acute sinusitis. It presents the features of the most used drugs, with special attention to the comparative assessment of their therapeutic effectiveness compared to other antibiotics, as well as determining the optimal schemes for their use within the framework of modern clinical protocols. A description of a clinical case of acute sinusitis and a treatment regimen with Cefixime EXPRESS is presented.
Management of a patient at very high cardiovascular risk with myositis during high-intensity statin therapy
Authors: Sedykh D. Yu. , Kashtalap V. V. , Barbarash O. L.
Published: May 2024

The main purpose of this article is to translate the existing experience of successful optimization of lipid-lowering treatment in a patient with a very high cardiovascular risk and a long history of dyslipidemia, cerebral atherosclerosis and myositis, which developed on a high-intensity statin therapy regimen. Using the example of a 56-year-old patient observed in the lipid center of the city of Kemerovo, it was shown that the combination of pitavastatin in the maximum tolerated dose of 2 mg and the cholesterol absorption inhibitor ezetimibe 10 mg can not only be effective in achieving target values of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (1.4 mmol/l) after undergoing carotid revascularization, but also safe for registered muscle symptoms that arose during a high-intensity statin therapy regimen. It was demonstrated that, against the background of high adherence to the selected treatment and low-cholesterol diet, and maintenance of regular physical activity, the patient completely disappeared both muscle pain and muscle weakness, and there was no clinical or instrumental progression of cerebral stenosis. The article provides current data on the prevalence of muscle symptoms when taking statins in real practice and in randomized clinical trials, discusses existing predisposing factors and potential mechanisms of occurrence, describes variants of clinical manifestations and tentative diagnostic search criteria. In addition, recommendations on the tactics of managing patients with their development at various cardiovascular risks have been systematized. An expert classification system for statin-associated muscle symptoms is demonstrated. Also presented is the routing of patients with side effects developing during statin therapy, adopted in the city of Kemerovo.
The influence of physical rehabilitation of patients on the course of chronic heart failure
Authors: Tokmachev R. E. , Kravchenko A. Ya. , Budnevsky A. V. , Kontsevaya А. V. , Simion A. Yu. , Chernyshova N. I. , Chumachenko A. V.
Published: May 2024

IIntriduction. Complex rehabilitation programs makes an important role in improving exercise tolerance and patients functional status with cardiovascular pathology.

Aim. To study the physical rehabilitation effect on the functional status, pro-inflammatory cytokines levels and cardiovascular inflammation biomarker (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) in heart failure patients with different ejection fractions.

Materials and methods. The study included 160 patients with chronic heart failure (84 men and 76 women, mean age 69.4 ± 8.8 years). Two groups of patients with preserved and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction were identified. The groups were divided into two subgroups: the first – those who underwent physical rehabilitation for a year and received standard drug therapy; the second one received exclusively standard drug therapy. At inclusion and after a year of observation, patients were examined: determination of functional status, levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, serum hs-C-reactive protein, NT-proBNP.

Results. Regardless of left ventricular ejection fraction, in the studied patients subgroups undergone physical rehabilitation, a statistically significant decrease in the proinflammatory cytokines levels, NT-proBNP and hs-C-reactive protein was noted. The study also demonstrated the physical rehabilitation beneficial effects on the patients with HF functional status. Thus, the distance walked within 6 minutes and its relation to the proper indicator in patients who underwent physical rehabilitation increased in comparison with the initial indicators during the initial examination of patients and in comparison with control subgroups. This may indicate the positive properly selected physical activity impact on circulatory compensation and the HF course.

Conclusion. Carrying out physical rehabilitation for chronic heart failure leads to an improvement in functional status, a decrease in the NT-proBNP, pro-inflammatory cytokines and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein level in comparison with the results of managing patients on drug therapy (without rehabilitation).
Functional hypogonadism in men: key causes and neuroendocrine mechanisms of its development
Authors: Salukhov V. V. , Aisaeva S. V.
Published: May 2024

Modern concepts of hypogonadism in men are undergoing significant transformation. The concept of functional hypogonadism, which is gaining increasing support among expert communities today, is based on the reversibility of symptomatic hypotestosteronemia after eliminating the causal factor or disease in men with an intact hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal system. This makes the diagnosis of functional hypogonadism an exclusion diagnosis of organic hypogonadism, which can be congenital (genetic) or acquired (destructive or structural) irreversible disorder occurring at any level of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Functional hypogonadism in men is becoming more common, attributed to its association with non-infectious pandemics such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other comorbid pathologies. Additionally, age-related hypogonadism meets the criteria of functional hypogonadism, as accumulating age-associated comorbidities have been shown to play a significant role in testosterone decline in aging men. Moreover, excessive physical activity, drastic calorie restriction, high psycho-emotional stress, injuries, surgeries, and the use of certain medications can also be causes of functional hypogonadism. Despite the wide range and heterogeneity of diseases and conditions underlying functional hypogonadism, the mechanisms driving its development are quite similar since in most cases, this androgen deficiency is secondary hypogonadotropic (central). However, in some cases, functional hypogonadism can be primary or mixed. Therefore, understanding the pathogenesis of functional hypogonadism is crucial as it involves a variety of biological pathways depending on the etiological factor or disease, which is detailed through a literature review. The article pays special attention to the evolutionary significance of the phenomenon of functional hypogonadism, an adapted classification of its causes, and describes the achievements of Russian researchers who have studied the impact of acute conditions and extreme influences on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal system in men.
When it comes to lead in water, new biosensing technology can reveal what the eyes cannot see and what the rules do not yet stop
Authors: Weinstock Robert , Young Sera L. , Knaus Alyssa , Messing Jenna , Bly Vanessa , Lucks Julius B.
Published: May 2024

Deficiencies in knowledge about water quality prevent or obscure progress on a panoply of public health problems globally. Specifically, such lack of information frustrates effective and efficient government regulation to protect the public from contaminated drinking water. In this Practical Paper, we lay out how recent scientific innovations in synthetic biology mean that rapid, at-home tests based on biosensor technology could be used to improve water quality monitoring and regulation, using the example of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Lead and Copper Rule currently under revision. Biosensor tests can be used by non-scientists and the information that biosensor tests generate is relatively cheaper and faster than standard laboratory techniques. As such, they have the potential to make it possible to increase the number and frequency of samples tested. This, in turn, could facilitate more accurate compliance monitoring, justify more protective substantive standards, and more efficiently identify infrastructure priorities. Biosensors can also empower historically underrepresented communities by facilitating the visibility of inequities in lead exposure, help utilities to ensure safe water delivery, and guide policy for identifying and replacing lead-bearing water infrastructure, thereby improving public health. As the technology matures, biosensors have great potential to reveal water quality issues, thereby reducing public health burdens.
Revolutionizing Infertility Management through Novel Peptide-based
Targets
Authors: Kumar Vijay , Doshi Gaurav
Published: May 2024

:

Around 48 million couples and 186 million people worldwide have infertility; of these,
approximately 85% have an identifiable cause, the most common being ovulatory dysfunctions,
male infertility, polycystic ovary syndrome, and tubule disease. The remaining 15% have infertility
for unknown reasons, including lifestyle and environmental factors. The regulation of the hypothalamic-
pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA) is crucial for the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone
(GnRH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are essential
for female reproductive functions. GnRH is the primary reproductive axis regulator. The
pattern of GnRH, FSH, and LH release is determined by its pulsatile secretion, which in turn controls
endocrine function and gamete maturation in the gonads. Peptides called Kisspeptin (KP),
Neurokinin-B (NKB), and Orexin influence both positive and negative feedback modulation of
GnRH, FSH, and LH secretion in reproduction. This review article mainly focuses on the historical
perspective, isoform, and signaling pathways of KP, NKB, and Orexin novel peptide-based targets
including clinical and preclinical studies and having a promising effect in the management of
infertility.
Overexpression of MiR-188-5p Downregulates IL6ST/STAT3/ NLRP3 Pathway to Ameliorate Neuron Injury in Oxygen-glucose Deprivation/Reoxygenation
Authors: Hu Yujie , Wang Ganlan , Yang Guoshuai
Published: May 2024

Background:

CI/R, characterized by ischemic injury following abrupt reestablishment
of blood flow, can cause oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and apoptosis.
We used oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation (OGD/R) induced injury in HT22
and primary mouse cortical neurons (MCN) as a model for CI/R.

Objective:

This study investigates the role of miR-188-5p in hippocampal neuron cell injury
associated with Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion (CI/R).

Methods:

HT22 and MCN cells were induced by OGD/R to construct an in vitro model of
CI/R. Cell apoptosis and proliferation were assessed using flow cytometry and the Cell
Counting Kit-8 (CCK8). ELISA was conducted to measure the levels of IL-1β, IL-6, and
TNF-α. Moreover, the interaction between miR-188-5p and IL6ST was investigated using
dual luciferase assay, the expression of miR-188-5p, Bax, cleaved-caspase3, IL-6, Bcl-2,
IL-1β, TNF-α, IL6ST, NFκB, NLRP3 and STAT3 was evaluated using RT-qPCR or Western
blot, and immunofluorescence was used to analyze the co-expression of p-STAT3 and
NLRP3 in neuronal cells.

Results:

OGD/R reduced proliferation and miR-188-5p levels and increased IL6ST expression,
inflammation, and apoptosis in HT22 and MCN cells. Moreover, miR-188-5p was
found to bind to IL6ST. Mimics of miR-188-5p reduced apoptosis, lowered the expression
of cleaved-caspase3 and Bax proteins, and elevated Bcl-2 protein expression in cells treated
with OGD/R. Overexpression of miR-188-5p decreased the levels of NLRP3 and p-STAT3
in the OGD/R group. Furthermore, the overexpression of miR-188-5p reduced IL6ST, p-
NFκB/NFκB, p-STAT3/STAT3, and NLRP3 proteins in OGD/R, and these effects could be
reversed by IL6ST overexpression.

Conclusion:

Mimics of miR-188-5p were found to inhibit inflammation and the
STAT3/NLRP3 pathway via IL6ST, thereby ameliorating injury in HT22 and MCN cells
treated with OGD/R in the context of CI/R.
Hydroxyapatite as Nanoparticle-based Adjuvant: Leishmaniasis Vaccine Candidate
Authors: Kelleci Kübra
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania protozoa can be fatal if left untreated.
An effective and safe human vaccine has still not been produced to eradicate the disease. Among
vaccine development studies, dead vaccines are still known as the most reliable and cheapest method.
The selection of an effective and safe adjuvant is important for killed vaccines. We have not
found any studies in which hydroxyapatite particles were used as adjuvants in vaccine research
against leishmaniasis.

Method:

In this study, spherical Hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanoparticles with dimensions of 100nm
were synthesized. Then, these particles were combined with autoclaved L. infantum antigens (ALA)
to prepare vaccine formulations at different concentrations. To determine the immunogenicity of
HAp, MTT cell viability analysis, nitric oxide (NO), and cytokine production abilities were investigated
in vitro in J774 macrophage cells.

Result:

According to the study results, it was determined that the cell viability level was 97 % at a
concentration of 200 μg/ml, and there was a 10-fold increase in NO production and an approximately
8.5-fold increase in IL-12 cytokine production ability compared to the control group.

Conclusion:

Considering the study results and the non-toxic properties of HAp, we have shown that
HAp can be used as an adjuvant in the development of new leishmania vaccines.
The Different Body Mass Index Does Not Impact Physical Health in Older Adults without Sedentary Behavior: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Amput Patchareeya , Wongphon Sirima
Published: May 2024

Aims and Objective:

This study aimed to compare and determine the correlation of
BMI on physical health, including muscle strength, balance, and cardiorespiratory fitness in older
adults without sedentary behavior.

Methods:

A total of 65 older adults without sedentary behavior were recruited and divided into 3
groups on the basis of body mass index (BMI): normal weight (n= 22/group), overweight (n= 22/-
group), and obese (n= 21/group). All the older adults were evaluated for upper limb muscle
strength using the handgrip strength test, lower limb muscle strength using the sit-to-stand (STS10)
test, balance ability using the time up and go (TUG) test, and cardiorespiratory fitness using
the 6-minute walk test (6MWT).

Results:

The handgrip strength test, STS10 test, and distance of 6MWT showed no difference
among the groups (p> 0.05). However, overweight group had a significantly longer duration for
the TUG test when compared to normal weight, while obese group had a significantly longer duration
for the TUG test when compared with overweight and normal weight groups (p< 0.01). In addition,
BMI was positively correlated with the duration of the TUG test. Whereas, the handgrip
strength test, STS10 test, and distance of 6MWT were not correlated with BMI.

Conclusion:

The BMI does not impact upper and lower limb muscle strength or the cardiorespiratory
fitness test, except for the ability to balance in older adults without sedentary behavior.
A Mutation in the CACNA1F Gene Found by Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) and In Silico Analysis in an Iranian Family with Consanguineous Relationships
Authors: Omarmeli Vahid , Assefi Marjan , Lewandrowski Kai-Uwe , Sharafshah Alireza , Faizmahdavi Hanieh , Darabi Parichehr , Amiri Amir , Mansouri Nasrin
Published: May 2024

Background:

X-linked mutations are highly important in clinical diagnosis, and at least
533 disorders are related to the genes located on the X chromosome.

Case Presentation:

A 21-year-old Caucasian woman with a 24-year-old Caucasian man as her
fiancé referred Clinical genetic lab for premarital genetic counseling (carrier screening). None of
them had any abnormal manifestations. Following genetic counseling, Whole Exome Sequencing
(WES) test performed to find the possible pathogenic mutations. Also, after drawing the couple's
pedigree, candidate mutations were examined in the woman's parents as well as her uncles. Additionally,
in silico investigations were performed through SWISS-MODEL, MolProbity, ProSA, Py-
Mol, and FATCAT tools. The most important mutation diagnosed in the woman (R1362Q in the
35th exon of CACNA1F), was observed in her mother and her two uncles. The mutation was also
screened in both her father and her fiancé, but they had no mutations. After medical examinations
of carriers, there was no sign of any eye impairment. Other mutations were TCTN2
(c.1613-2A>G), TARS (p.K319E), SPEG (p.E3020K), CPS1 (p.A1180V), MYO3A (p.I736M),
NNT (p.R968Q), MED23 (p.K406T). Bioinformatics analyses indicated no alteration in the mutant
structure of CACNA1F (Q1362) compared with the normal structure (R1362).

Conclusion:

Conclusively, the current study emphasizes the non-pathogenic effect of missense
mutation R1362Q in the 35th exon of CACNA1F in association with ocular diseases. This will ensure
the reports of this mutation as healthy instead of uncertain in the literature and databanks.
Culinary Studios as an Innovative Product for the Popularization of Domestic Tourism in the Kursk Region
Authors: Abushenkova M. V. , Smirnova M. A.
Published: May 2024

The relevance of the study is determined by the need to assess the introduction of culinary studios into the restaurant business as an innovative product of the development of the gastronomic space of the Kursk region. 

The purpose of the article is to provide an economic justification for the introduction of culinary studios into the gastronomic space of the Kursk region in order to popularize domestic tourism in the region. 

Objectives: to study the theoretical foundations of gastronomic tourism; to consider the historical aspect of the research topic; to evaluate the experience of using culinary and gastronomic studios in the Kursk region; to develop a strategy for reforming the tourist product and the optimal ways to integrate it into the infrastructure of the restaurant business in the region.

Methodology. To study scientific articles, works of domestic specialists, statistical data and other sources related to the research topic, the authors of the article relied on general scientific methods such as analysis, observation, description, comparison, graphical representation, synthesis.

Results. Based on the study of the development of the gastronomic space of the Kursk region, recommendations were formed on the introduction of culinary studios into the restaurant business to increase the tourist flow and popularize domestic tourism in the region.

Conclusions. During the study, the authors conclude that the creation of culinary studios and their introduction into the restaurant business of the Kursk region will contribute to the comprehensive development of gastronomic culture and tourism in the region. With the help of this tool, the personal brand of the Nightingale Region will be able to attract attention, increase interest in its culture and history, as well as stimulate the development of small and medium-sized businesses in the catering and tourism industry, including by attracting investors.
An Innovative Approach to the Organization of the Company's Activities Based on the Use of Digital Technologies for Brand Promotion
Authors: Ponomarev S. V. , Krainova O. S. , Moskovtseva L. V. , Plyasova S. V.
Published: May 2024

The relevance of the research is determined by the need to adapt the activities of enterprises to the rapidly developing digital environment, which requires regular revision of the promotion strategy and adaptation to the new changing conditions shaping the business landscape. 

The purpose of the study is to develop an innovative approach to the organization of the company's activities based on the use of digital technologies for brand promotion in the face of changes, as well as to determine the directions of their practical implementation.

The objectives of the research are to determine the theoretical and methodological foundations for the formation and implementation of a brand promotion strategy in the company's activities; substantiate the role of digital technologies in the brand promotion strategy of a modern enterprise; develop an innovative approach to the organization of the company's activities based on the use of digital brand promotion technologies.

Methodology. The paper uses the method of theoretical analysis, the method of classification, synthesis, deduction and induction. The following practical research methods are used: observation method, analysis of collected data, description, economic analysis, comparison method, systematic approach. The applied empirical research methods include: choosing a platform for posting content, ways and channels of influencing the consumer audience of an Internet resource. 

The results. The elements of an innovative approach to the organization of an enterprise's activities based on the use of digital brand promotion technologies are revealed: the procedure for analyzing content and determining its compliance with the target audience; segments of the target audience for interaction in the process of brand promotion; main and additional promotion channels; options for creating a communication strategy; metrics used to assess the effectiveness of a brand promotion strategy. The stages of digital content creation are highlighted and the author's recommendations for their improvement are proposed.

Conclusions. An innovative approach to brand promotion using digital promotion technologies is presented, the uniqueness of which consists in the use of updated basic elements and digital tools at each stage of the strategy, allowing to increase the adaptability of the enterprise to changing environmental conditions.
Digital Scientific and Educational Environment of the University: from Theory to Practice
Authors: Abramov A. P. , Afanas'eva V. A. , Suprun A. Yu. , Smirnova M. A.
Published: May 2024

Relevance.The use of digital tools has become a reality in all spheres of human activity in the last decade. The modern university has become a testing ground for technological innovations, in which digitalization is not only a managerial and scientific driver, but also a constant practice of educational relations.

At the same time, the process of implementation and use of the digital scientific and educational environment is due to a number of circumstances (problems) that need to be overcome specifically in scientific interdisciplinary discourse: firstly, the ongoing discussions around the dyad “human - artificial intelligence” and the uncertainty of the boundaries of the co-evolving unity of its components; secondly, the existing request of the university community for their implementation and the infrastructural limitations of using digital tools in the educational environment of a particular educational institution.

Therefore, the digital scientific and educational environment of the university remains the focus of close attention of researchers and the entire scientific community.

The purposeis determine directions for improving the digital scientific and educational environment of a modern Russian university 

Objectives:characterize theoretical and methodological approaches to the creation and use of a digital scientific and educational environment; identify problems and prospects for implementing management practices for its implementation; to specify effective ways of innovative changes.

Methodology.The methodological discourse is built in line with the main problem of our time ‒ the contradiction between the achievements of scientific and technological progress on the one hand and spiritual and moral culture on the other. The conceptual “portfolio” of the study is formed from the main provisions of social theories of educational management using quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis.

Results.A theoretical "portfolio" of concepts and approaches has been defined that explain the sociocultural nature of the digital scientific and educational environment of the university. Based on empirical data based on surveys and expert assessments, the pros and cons of introducing digital technologies are identified and directions for their improvement are outlined

Conclusions.Digitalization is an element of inevitable progress and transformation of all spheres of human activity. The digital scientific and educational environment of the university is intended to become a trigger for innovative changes in educational relations.