bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the market tightness of selected stocks in the Johannesburg Stock Exchange
Authors: Enow Samuel Tabot
Published: October 2024

The market tightness of equity securities is an integral component of financial market because it supports smooth trading and absorb market shocks. However, the contention has always been to effectively determine the level of tightness in equity securities with the application of proper methodology in order to make informed decisions. Therefore, aim of this study was to examine the level of market tightness in selected stocks in the Johannesburg stock exchange. Using a variance ratio model, the findings of this study indicates that most securities trading on the exchange lack market tightness. This was evident in the difference between the one, two and three months variances that were not equal to 1 . Therefore, a specialist system should be introduced in order to facilitate the execution of trades without significantly moving the prices of equity securities. This study improves the frontier of knowledge regarding liquidity management, by empirically investigating the market tightness of equity securities.
Code-Switching as a tactical approach to enhance learner engagement with intricate concepts in oral english presentations
Authors: Khosa Mzamani , Zitha Innocent
Published: October 2024

The South African English language curriculum states that by the time students reach Grade 7, they should have mastered certain English language skills that enable them to communicate effectively at both personal and educational levels. Therefore, a study was conducted to investigate the potential benefits of code-switching in improving students' oral participation in English classes. The study took place in a primary school in the Malamulele East circuit and involved all fifty Grade 7 students. The students' oral presentations were part of their formative assessment. Researchers used a rigorous methodology, including convenience sampling, to select participants, with the first ten girls and the first ten boys considered for the study. Data was collected during presentations, where each student had an opportunity to present. The qualitative method was used, with audio recordings and observations as data collection tools. Content analysis was employed to analyse the data collected from the Grade 7 students. Based on the students' performance in their oral presentations, code-switching seemed to help them to effectively communicate complex concepts in their primary language when there were no equivalent English words. The findings of this study showed that code-switching enhances students' oral communication skills and makes learning more enjoyable. students achieve their communication goals through code-switching, offering the audience a hopeful outlook on the potential benefits of this approach.
Talent management and employee retention in the South African Higher education landscape
Authors: Isah  Leontes Njanjobea
Published: October 2024

This study explored talent management and employee retention in South Africa's higher education sector, focusing on Institution X. Post-apartheid, South African higher education has faced numerous challenges, including attracting, managing, and retaining new academics essential for societal transformation. The study aimed to assess the relationship between talent management practices (recruitment, career management, rewards, management style, and talent development) and employee retention in this sector.The study's objectives were to examine the strategic orientation of talent management at Institution X, determine its contribution to employee retention, investigate challenges faced in talent management, and propose strategies to enhance retention. A quantitative research design was used, employing a self-administered structured questionnaire. The sample included 65 academic staff members, such as professors, lecturers, and junior lecturers, with data analyzed using SPSS. Findings indicated that talent management is neither a strategic element nor fully implemented within the higher education sector. This highlights a significant challenge in managing and retaining qualified academics, an issue prevalent since the end of apartheid. The study underscores the importance of understanding and improving talent management strategies to ensure the sustainability and quality of higher education institutions. Recommendations were made for reviewing and enhancing talent management practices for academic staff in the sector.
Analyzing effective interventions against female genital mutilation across different regions
Authors: Oukouomi Noutchie Suares Clovis
Published: October 2024

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) remains a critical human rights issue affecting millions of girls and women. FGM is deeply rooted in cultural and religious traditions, posing significant challenges to its elimination. The trauma inflicted by FGM extends beyond physical pain, leading to severe psychological and emotional consequences. Addressing this complex issue requires a comprehensive approach that integrates legal, educational, medical, and community-based interventions. The paper examines the dynamics of FGM across multiple countries, utilizing third-party data from the United Nations Population Fund. By presenting a comprehensive analysis of these strategies, this paper aims to contribute to the fight against FGM, offering insights and recommendations for policymakers, activists, and practitioners dedicated to ending this practice. The eradication of FGM requires sustained, multi-dimensional efforts to ensure the protection and empowerment of girls and women.
Influence of selected demographic variables on SMME survival
Authors: Naong Matsidiso Nehemia , Makhoali Kaizer Julius
Published: October 2024

The economic vibrancy of most small communities is generally driven by Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) of different kind. Although the existence of these SMMEs tend to depend mainly on the disposition of the entrepreneur, the role of demographic variables tend to be very significant when it comes to their profitability and long-term survival. A myriad of research studies have highlighted the role of demographic characteristics. The paper aims to establish the influence of demographic variables on SMME sustainability and success. We employed a positivist research approach, which is descriptive in nature. A survey was used to collect data from 117 randomly sampled owners/managers respondents from a myriad of SMMEs in the Matjhabeng municipality in Welkom. Yielding a response rate of 69%. A regression analysis and interpretation was conducted to determine the influence of variables to each other. The regression data analysis revealed a mixed-bag of results with (i) education level, (ii) household income and (iii) consumer mobility reporting a significant relationship with SMME sustainability. Conversely, (iv) age level and (v) past work experience showed no significant relationship with SMME sustainability. To ensure sustained SMME growth and success, owner/managers must embrace and entrench a culture of investing not only in their self-development, but that of their team members/workforce as well. The study provides empirical evidence of the positive relationship between demographic variables and SMME’s sustained success and survival. Confirming that education and experience in particular are critical predictors of SMME success if investment on the most important asset, people, is given a high priority.
Devastating effects of gender inequality on female students in South African higher education
Authors: Sekgobela Tumelo , Munzhelele Decent , Budeli Nngodiseni Jimmy
Published: October 2024

Gender inequality is a concept of much relevance and is continuously gaining momentum. The diversification of different genders is pivotal to be able to address the effects of gender inequality. Globally, gender inequality has attracted a lot of interest and has huge effects on the social, academic and psychological. Although there is a nurturing environment for gender inequality, it is important to neutralize the playing fields for all genders to avoid negative effects on the victims of this phenomenon. The aim of this paper is to investigate the effects of gender inequality on South Africa’s higher education Students. It further seeks to challenge the perception contributing to gender inequality. Gender inequality is a universal problem affecting students throughout institutions of higher learning. The study used the qualitative research approach with exploratory research design adopted for the paper. The paper explored the effects of gender inequality on students from higher education institutions in South Africa. A sample of 15 students from institutions of higher learning who have been exposed to gender inequality was chosen for data collection process. A semi-structured face to face interviews was used during the data collection process with purposive sampling used to select participants to the study. The study used thematic content analysis to analyze data. The study applied feminist theoretical framework to understand the effects of gender inequality.
Influence of modes of communication on public participation in Laikipia County, Kenya
Authors: Wambugu John , Gichuhi David , Ndung’u Kahura
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the impact of communication modes on enhancing public participation in Laikipia County, Kenya. The objective of the study was to examine how different communication channels affect citizen involvement in government-led development processes. Public participation is crucial for fostering democratic governance and equitable development. However, in Kenya, achieving substantial public engagement has been challenging, partly due to the use of ineffective communication channels. This study hypothesizes that such channels hinder meaningful public participation. To explore this, a hybrid analytics method was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches, to assess how various communication modes influence public engagement. The research utilized a dataset comprising 384 respondents collected between June and July 2024. Data analysis, completed in July 2024, revealed several that different modes of communication significantly affect the level of public participation, influencing how well citizens receive and comprehend information about development initiatives. Channels that facilitate clearer, more direct communication leads to higher levels of understanding and engagement among the public. Effective communication channels are essential for fostering meaningful public involvement, as they impact citizens' responses and behaviours towards development activities. These findings underscore the importance of utilizing effective communication strategies to enhance public participation in development processes. The study contributes to a better understanding of how communication methods can be optimized to support democratic engagement and improve development outcomes in Kenya.
Democratic leadership in the Batak Tribe: lessons from Customary Law for modern governance
Authors: Sihombing B.F.
Published: October 2024

The main aim of this research is to explore and analyse leadership in the very democratic Batak tribe in Indonesia from the perspective of Batak customary law. The research method used is normative juridical legal research with a qualitative descriptive analysis method approach and also uses an existing conceptual approach model on leadership to then generate new ideas. as well as processing primary data and secondary data. The findings of this study are that the leadership style resulting from Machiavelli's political philosophy tends to be expensive, and there is a political dowry. Then, leadership in the Trias Politics conception tends to manipulate and abuse power such as corruption, tyranny and dynastic power. As a result, gave birth to leaders who behave like immoral wolves, homo homini lupus. On the other hand, the leadership style of the Batak tribe from the perspective of Batak customary law tends to mean maintaining harmony, which is a noble cultural value in terms of organizational leadership related to social relations, a well-organized organization and power distributed evenly. Thus, it is hoped that this study will be useful for the government, legislators and other stakeholders to use as an idea and reference approach in making efforts to choose a harajaon leadership based on dalihan natolu, which is a medium that contains objective legal principles based on kinship, brotherhood and cooperation by the mandate of paragraph IV of the Preamble to the 1945 Constitution of the Republic of Indonesia.
Ambidexterity among start-ups in the tourism and hospitality industry
Authors: Dias Álvaro , Camal Carolina , Sousa Bruno , Pereira Leandro
Published: October 2024

Purpose - This study investigates the impact of incubators on knowledge management and sustainable innovation in early-stage tourism and hospitality firms. It explores whether incubators leverage innovation generated by these firms. Methodology/Design/Approach - Survey data from early-stage tourism and hospitality firms were analyzed using latent variable modeling and Importance-Performance Matrix Analysis (IPMA). Findings - The study reveals that incubators directly influence innovation exploitation but not innovation exploration. However, an indirect influence on exploration exists through human capital as a mediator. Originality - This research advances understanding of the relationship between knowledge management and sustainable innovation in the tourism context. It pioneers the exploration of the incubator effect on innovation ambidexterity (simultaneous pursuit of exploration and exploitation) in early-stage tourism and hospitality firms.
I Jornadas de Innovación Educativa 24 de junio de 2024: Libro de resúmenes
Authors: López-Fernández Daniel , Gordillo Méndez Aldo , Mayor Márquez Jesús , Ortega Requena Fernando , Lara Cabrera Raúl , Talavera Muñoz Edgar , Gayoso Cabada Joaquín , Panizo LLedot Ángel , Ramírez Atencia Cristian , Badenes Olmedo Carlos , Eyzaguirre Barreda Paul Andree , Martín Lucía , Cimmino Arriaga Andrea , Santamaria María Inmaculada , Rodríguez Fernández Víctor , Uribe Mayoral Silvia Alba , Ottaviano Manuel , García Martín Javier , Gamazo Real José Carlos , Iliyanova Alicia , Marquina Nieto Moisés , Miñano Rubio Rafael , D'Antonio Maceiras Sergio Alejandro , Fernández Aller Celia , Portillo Aldana Eloy , Valero Duboy Miguel Ángel , Tabuenca Archilla Bernardo , Uche Soria Manuel
Published: October 2024

Las Jornadas de Innovación Educativa organizadas en la Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería de Sistemas Informáticos (ETSISI) de la Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM) han sido un espacio clave para la reflexión y el intercambio de experiencias entre los docentes de nuestra escuela. A través de estas jornadas, no solo compartimos iniciativas innovadoras que estamos implementando en nuestras clases, sino que también nos enriquecemos mutuamente al ser fuente de inspiración para los demás, identificando nuevas estrategias pedagógicas y oportunidades de colaboración. Todo ello con la meta común de proporcionar a nuestros estudiantes experiencias educativas más enriquecedoras y adaptadas a las demandas del contexto actual.

Durante el evento, se han presentado un total de trece trabajos que han sido agrupados en tres categorías principales: “Ludificación y aprendizaje basado en juegos”, donde se exploraron metodologías que fomentan la motivación y el compromiso a través del juego; “Aprendizaje potenciado mediante Inteligencia Artificial”, centrado en el uso de nuevas tecnologías basadas en Inteligencia Artificial para mejorar los procesos de enseñanza y aprendizaje; y “Aprendizaje basado en proyectos/retos, aprendizaje servicio y otros métodos activos de aprendizaje”, que promueven el aprendizaje práctico y colaborativo, conectando a los estudiantes con problemas y desafíos reales, en muchos casos de carácter social. Estas categorías reflejan el amplio abanico de metodologías activas que buscan transformar el proceso educativo, haciéndolo más dinámico, interactivo y centrado en el estudiante.

Estamos muy satisfechos con la excelente acogida que han tenido las Jornadas de Innovación Educativa por parte del profesorado. La alta participación y el interés mostrado por los docentes han superado nuestras expectativas, lo que demuestra el creciente compromiso de la comunidad académica de la ETSISI con la mejora continua de la enseñanza. La gran asistencia, sumada a las enriquecedoras discusiones que se generaron, refleja no solo el entusiasmo por implementar nuevas metodologías, sino también el deseo de compartir conocimientos y experiencias para seguir avanzando juntos en la mejora de la calidad educativa.
Antifungal Activity of Rhizosphere Bacillus Isolated from Ziziphus jujuba Against Alternaria alternata
Authors: Zou Qiang , Zhang Yumeng , Niu XinXiang , Yang Hongmei , Chu Min , Wang Ning , Bao Huifang , Zhan Faqiang , Yang Rong , Lou Kai , Shi Yingwu
Published: October 2024

The serious impact of Alternaria alternata on jujube black spot disease has seriously affected the quality and yield of jujube, constraining the sustainable development of the jujube industry. The purpose of this study was to isolate and screen highly effective biocontrol strains of jujube black spot disease from jujube rhizosphere soil. Thirty-three soil samples were collected from 4 regions in southern Xinjiang. The strains with antagonistic effects were isolated and screened by the dilution spread method and plate confrontation method and identified by morphological, physiological, and biochemical characteristics, as well as 16S rDNA, gyrB, and rpoB gene sequences. Indoor and field efficacy experiments were conducted to determine their biocontrol effect. A total of 110 strains with antibacterial activity were selected, and one strain, Bacillus velezensis 26-8, with a stable antagonistic effect was further tested. Biological characteristic experiments showed that strain 26-8 could grow at NaCl concentrations of 0.5%-10% and pH 4.0-9.0. The biocontrol experiment results showed that Bacillus velezensis 26-8 could achieve an 89.83% control effect against black spot disease. In conclusion, strain 26-8 has good salt and alkali tolerance, exerts a good control effect on jujube black spot disease, and is worthy of further study.
Acceptability and Feasibility of Hybrid Research Methods for Adaptive Assessment of Youth in Community Settings
Authors: Weiss Margaret Danielle , Richards Eleanor Castine , Bien-Aime Danta , Witkowski Taylor , Williams Peyton , Holmes Katie E , Cortes Dharma E , Tepper Miriam C , Wang Phillip S , Aldis Rajendra , Carson Nicholas , Cook Benjamin Le
Published: October 2024

Objective: To explore the acceptability and feasibility of conducting comprehensive, community-based, hy-brid (in-person and virtual) mental health screening and feedback with diverse youth in the community. Methods: The Screening and Support for Youth intervention provides comprehensive assessment and thera-peutic feedback in community settings including symptoms, diagnoses, functional impairment, suicide, and clinical risk. Symptom severity, seven diagnoses and suicidality were assessed with the Kiddie Computer-ized Adaptive Test. Functional impairment was evaluated by youth self-report on the Weiss Functional Im-pairment Rating Scale. Measures were scored according to nationally developed norms and an algorithm was developed to aggregate symptoms and functioning to determine clinical risk. The results were discussed with participants in a motivational interview to promote insight and engagement in an online intervention. Results: Methodological innovations included using a QR code for recruitment, integrated in-person and virtual participation, and expansion from in-person recruitment within the schools to virtual engagement with youth throughout the community. The final sample included disproportionately more Black or African American and Hispanic youth as compared to school and community statistics, suggesting that hybrid re-search may facilitate recruitment of diverse populations. Qualitative interviews indicated that the screening and feedback raised youth awareness of their wellbeing and/or distress, its impact on their functioning, and engagement with options for improving wellbeing. Conclusion: Hybrid research, developed as a necessity during the pandemic, proved advantageous to the feasibility and acceptability of community-based recruit-ment of at risk, minoritized youth.
Evaporation Dynamics and Dosimetry Methods in Numerically Assessing MDI Performance in Pulmonary Drug Delivery
Authors: Talaat Mohamed , Si Xiuhua , Xi Jinxiang
Published: October 2024

Metered Dose Inhalers (MDIs) play a crucial role in managing respiratory diseases, but their effectiveness depends on whether the intended dose is delivered to the target, which can be influenced by various factors. Accurate assessment of MDI performance is crucial for optimizing MDI delivery and ensuring drug efficacy. This study numerically examined the role of evaporation dynamics and dosimetry methods in assessing MDI delivery efficiency to different regions in a mouth-lung model extending to G11. Experimentally determined spray exit speed, applied dose, and droplet size distribution were implemented as the initial/boundary conditions. Large eddy simulations (LES) were used to resolve the transient inhalation flows, and a chemical species model was applied to simulate vapor and temperature variations in the airflow. A multi-component model was used to consider the heat and mass transfer between the droplets and airflow. The model was validated against literature data and applied to evaluate the impact of evaporation on pulmonary drug delivery using MDI, in comparison to inert particles. Three methods were used to quantify deposition: based on droplet count, droplet mass, and the drug carried by the droplets. Results demonstrate that evaporation notably alters the spray droplet size distribution and subsequent deposition patterns. Compared to inert particles, evaporation led to significantly more droplets ranging from 1–5 µm entering the pulmonary region. For a given region, large discrepancies were observed in deposition fraction (DF) using different dosimetry methods. In the lower lung, the count-based DF (33.9%) and mass-based DF (2.4%) differed by more than one order of magnitude, while the drug-based DF fell between them (20.5%). This large difference highlights the need to include evaporation in predictive dosimetry, as well as to use the appropriate method to quantify the delivery efficiency of evaporating droplets.
The Potential of Ga-68 PSMA-PET/CT as a Main Diagnostic Tool in Prostate Cancer Staging
Authors: Pisotskyi Oleksii , Petrasz Piotr , Zorga Piotr , Gałęski Marcin , Szponar Pawel , Koper Krzysztof , Brzeźniakiewicz-Janus Katarzyna , Drewa Tomasz , Kaczmarek Krzysztof , Czarnogórski Michał Cezary , Adamowicz Jan
Published: October 2024

Gallium-68 prostate-specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography/computed tomography (Ga-68 PSMA-PET/CT) is a diagnostic tool used in urology to detect oligometastatic disease in patients with prostate cancer (PC). Although increasingly popular and extensively studied, it is not considered a standard diagnostic tool for primary PC staging, because it lacks validation when compared to mpMRI.Numerous studies have suggested its promising role in PC diagnostics. Our objective was to comprehensively review and summarize the existing literature on the potential and feasibility of utilizing Ga-68 PSMA-PET/CT as the sole method for primary PC staging and to compare it with currently employed diagnostic tools (mainly mpMRI). The main goal of the study was to consolidate the data on the sensitivity and specificity of PSMA-PET for PCa staging when compared with other diagnostic tools. The use of PSMA-PET/CT as the only diagnostic tool of primary PC in the future might potentially reduce diagnostic time and costs. In addition, we examined the limitations of its use. Ga-68 PSMA-PET/CT demonstrates encouraging outcomes during the initial assessment of PC, potentially leading to a transformative leap in PC diagnosis and treatment, due to the utilization of Ga-68 PSMA, with high affinity to prostate cells.
Reflexiones teórico-prácticas de la argumentación jurídica
Authors: Natzu Mireles Leslie Valeria
Published: October 2024

En principio, para hablar acerca de la importancia de la argumentación jurídica, se requiere referir algunas de sus bases teóricas para luego mencionar algunos de sus aspectos prácticos. Esto porque para argumentar jurídicamente en la realidad y de la manera más idónea, es pertinente atender lo que recomienda la teoría de la argumentación.
Un nuevo libro de historia que hará historia
Authors: Orozco Víctor
Published: October 2024

El libro del investigador Pedro Siller, Rebelión en la Revolución. Chihuahua y la Revolución Mexicana (1910-1915), constituye uno de los trabajos de mayores alcances sobre el movimiento armado, escritos en los últimos tiempos. A invitación del autor, escribí el prólogo, del cual resumo unos cuantos párrafos, a propósito del 107 aniversario de la Revolución Mexicana.
REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH OF OLDER CHILDREN IN THE VOLGA FEDERAL DISTRICT: TERRITORIAL FEATURES
Authors:   Izhevsk State Medical Academy of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Izhevsk, Russia, Bezdetko Georgy , Stupak Valery ,   Russian Research Institute of Health, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, Banteva Marina ,   Russian Research Institute of Health, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
Published: October 2024

Significance. Over the past years, the demographic situation in the country has been worsening, which is largely due to a decrease in fertility. This trend justifies the relevance of studying reproductive health of the older child population, which in the near future will form the basis of the national reproductive potential. The purpose of the study is to determine dynamics in morbidity characterizing reproductive health of children aged 15-17 in the Volga Federal District and some of its regions. Material and methods. The study used information from the federal statistical observation form No. 12 on morbidity among children aged 15-17, both prevalence and incidence, in 2014-2022 in the Russian Federation, the Volga Federal District, and some of its regions: the Republics of Bashkortostan and Udmurtia and the Kirov region. The following research methods were used: analytical, statistical, descriptive statistics. Results. From 2016 to 2022, in the Volga Federal District, there was an increase in prevalence of all diseases in children aged 15-17 from 2599116.6 to 259513.5 per 100 thousand child population of the corresponding age (by 0.2%), and a decline in incidence from 156772.6 to 143944.0 per 100 thousand child population (by 8.2%). In the Russian Federation over the same period, there was a 0.9% increase in prevalence and a 4.2% increase in incidence. Prevalence and incidence were characterized as follows: an increase in menstrual disorders - by 9.9% and 8.6%, respectively; a significant reduction in endometriosis – by 46.5% and 63.3%, respectively; a significant reduction in ovarian dysfunction - 36.4% and 34.2%, respectively; a reduction in testicular dysfunction – by 45.9% and 7.7%, respectively; and a 12% reduction in prevalence of congenital anomalies of the female genital organs. In the regions, there is a unidirectional trend towards a decrease in endometriosis, both prevalence and incidence; and multidirectional trends in other diseases. Conclusion. Taking into account the unfavorable demographic situation in the country, an increase in both prevalence and incidence in children aged 15-17, an increase in morbidity of certain diseases that characterize reproductive health of the younger generation, a spatial heterogeneity of the structure and dynamics in the studied morbidity, the development of measures for preserving reproductive health of the younger generation and increasing the national reproductive potential should be targeted with due regard to regional characteristics of individual constituent entities of the Russian Federation.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE ORGANIZATION MODEL OF PRIMARY CARE DELIVERY AND REIMBURSEMENT BASED ON A MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH IN THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN AND THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Authors:   Russian Research Institute of Health of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, Chukavina Anastasia , Obukhova Olga ,   Russian Research Institute of Health of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, Bogdanova Tatiana ,   Russian Research Institute of Health of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
Published: October 2024

Significance. The need for practical implementation of new models of organization of the primary health care system is due to demographic, social, epidemiological, technological and economic factors. Promising practices of medical care delivery have been formed in the world, both on the basis of interdepartmental interaction of medical and social workers, and in the form of a teamwork of specialists, including general practitioners, as well as specialists providing social and psychological assistance. The experience of Kazakhstan in organizing multidisciplinary teams has shown high efficiency, including decreased hospitalization rates, increased involvement and patient satisfaction. The purpose of the study is to conduct a comparative analysis of current models of organization of primary care delivery based on a multidisciplinary approach in the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation. Material and methods. The authors analyzed results of domestic and foreign scientific research confirming effectiveness of the organization model of primary health care delivery based on a multidisciplinary approach in the Republic of Kazakhstan, as well as normative legal documents of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation regulating primary care organization and reimbursement. Results. The comparative analysis of the normative-legal base in health care system of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation shows common for both countries approaches to the primary care organization and reimbursement, while in the Russian Federation the provision of social and psychological assistance within the framework of the multidisciplinary approach is regulated only for individual categories of patients (children, elderly citizens, pregnant women). Conclusion. The introduction of multidisciplinary teams increases medical and social efficiency of primary care delivery and quality of life of the population attached to medical organizations on the district-based principle. In order to substantiate feasibility of a large-scale implementation of the multidisciplinary approach to primary care organization and reimbursement in the Russian Federation, it is necessary to test it in individual constituent entities of the Russian Federation in medical organizations with adult and pediatric polyclinics, as well as women's consultation.
MAIN RISK FACTORS AFFECTING OCCUPATIONAL MORBIDITY AMONG SCRUB NURSES
Authors:   I.M. Sechenov First State Medical University (Sechenov University) Moscow, Russia, Kasimovskaya Nataliya , Morugina Olga ,   I.M. Sechenov First State Medical University (Sechenov University) Moscow, Russia, Fomina Elena ,   I.M. Sechenov First State Medical University (Sechenov University) Moscow, Russia
Published: October 2024

Significance. There remains a high prevalence of risk factors in professional activities of scrub nurses, which have a negative impact on their health. At the same time, there is a significant decrease in staffing with scrub nurses, substantiating the need to identify preventive measures to manage risk factors to preserve their health for further professional activity. The purpose of the study is to analyze risk factors in occupational environment and identify their impact on the health of scrub nurses. Material and methods. The study was based on the analysis of data obtained from a survey (n=2069) of scrub nurses working in multidisciplinary hospitals in seven federal districts of the Russian Federation. The initial level of statistical significance was p<0.05. Statistical processing was carried out using Microsoft Excel 2023 for Windows 11 application programs. Results. In the Russian Federation, staffing with scrub nurses who rate their health as satisfactory is decreasing. Physical, chemical factors and radiation are often found in professional activities of scrub nurses, affecting the growth of occupational morbidity. A direct strong correlation between professional activities and diseases has been established. Conclusion. The health status of scrub nurses is influenced by six major groups of occupational risk factors, which may lead to the exodus from the profession and calls for the development of preventive measures.
MODELING OF FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH ATTITUDES TOWARDS PEOPLE WITH MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL DISORDERS
Authors:   Northern State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Arkhangelsk, Russia, Svetlichnaya Tatiana , Smirnova Elena ,   Cherepovets State University, Cherepovets, Russia, Mordovsky Edgar ,   Northern State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Arkhangelsk, Russia
Published: October 2024

Significance. The increasing intensity of social processes contributes to the increase in the incidence of mental disorders and behavioral disorders among citizens. A history of mental and behavioral disorders creates conditions for social isolation of the patient. A questionnaire survey was conducted with the purpose of identifying factors associated with the attitude of citizens towards patients with mental and behavioral disorders. Material and methods. To collect data, a validated author's questionnaire was used, the answers to the questions and judgments of which were presented in the form of a five-level scale of the total Likert ratings. Simple and multiple binary logistic regression analysis, and simple ordinal logistic regression analysis were used to select factors that affect the respondents' choice of options for questions-judgments reflecting their attitude towards patients with mental disorders and behavioral disorders. Results. Respondents with a history of dealing with patients with mental disorders and behavioral disorders are more likely to agree with the statement that the latter should be isolated from society. Older respondents are more likely to agree with the statement that patients with mental and behavioral disorders may be restricted in rights. Middle-aged respondents (compared with the elderly) who have secondary vocational education (compared with those with higher education) are more likely to agree with the statement that patients with mental disorders and behavioral disorders pose a danger. Non-religious respondents are less likely to agree with the statement that patients with mental disorders and behavioral disorders pose a danger. Conclusion. The attitude of residents of Cherepovets towards people with mental disorders and behavioral disorders is mediated by the characteristics of their demographic status, previous history of dealing with such patients and self-rated religious commitment. Scope of application. The study results can be used to develop social programs aimed at preventing interpersonal conflicts and formation of negative social stereotypes resulting in social isolation of people with mental and behavioral disorders.
Intraneural and Extraneural Ganglion Cysts at the Greater Sciatic Notch Involving the Sciatic Nerve Causing Sciatica: Two Case Reports
Authors: Son Byung-chul
Published: October 2024

Intraneural ganglion cysts (IGCs) are benign mucinous cysts within the epineurium of peripheral nerves. Hip joint-related IGCs are much rarer than those that arise from peripheral nerves around the joints of limbs. The unifying articular synovial theory has been accepted as explaining the pathogenesis of IGCs. Herein, we present two cases of hip joint-related ganglion cysts—one case of an IGC and one case of an extraneural ganglion cyst—that involved the sciatic nerve through the articular branch of the hip joint and caused sciatica. Preoperative and postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of the articular branch derived from a paralabral cyst of the hip are presented, as well as photographic findings of a ganglion cyst with the articular branch addressed through a transgluteal approach. Despite improvement in postoperative sciatica due to cyst decompression and treatment aimed at addressing the articular branch, the articular branch remained present on postoperative MRI. Unlike IGCs arising from peripheral nerves associated with limb joints, involvement of the sciatic nerve might make it challenging to treat articular branches due to the location of the sciatic nerve over the greater sciatic notch of the deep gluteal region.
A geophysics-informed pro-poor approach to earthquake risk management
Authors: Agrawal Himanshu , Wang Chenbo , Cremen Gemma , McCloskey John
Published: October 2024

Recent earthquake disasters have highlighted an urgent need for continuous advancements in approaches to reducing seismic risk. Decision-making on such strategies should consider subsurface geophysical information (e.g., seismic site response), given its direct link to seismic hazard. This is particularly important in regions where the poorest in society often reside in areas with softer soils that lead to higher ground-motion amplifications. In this context, we propose a framework to support decision-making on earthquake risk policies, which explicitly integrates information on the geophysics of an urban system as well as its physical and social environment. The framework is based on the Tomorrow’s Cities Decision Support Environment, which was designed to support urban planning with a focus on pro-poor disaster risk reduction in countries of the Global South. It is further underpinned by a cost-benefit analysis, which facilitates the assessment of potential policies in terms of both their ability to reduce earthquake risk as well as their value for (often limited) money. We illustrate the framework using a well-established virtual urban testbed based on Global South cities, which reveals that geophysics-informed policy making can successfully lead to pro-poor earthquake risk reduction.
Distribution and failure mechanism of landslides associated with seismic response of the slope during the 2022 Lushan Ms6.1 earthquake
Authors: Wu Haochen , Wang Yunsheng , He Jianxian , Luo Yonghong , Jin Gang , Song Huaying
Published: October 2024

In recent years, the frequent occurrence of intense seismic events in the mountainous regions of western China has led to numerous geological disasters, resulting in significant human casualties and extensive property damage. Understanding the seismic response of slopes is crucial for elucidating the failure mechanism of earthquake-induced landslides. The distribution of geological landslides and the seismic response of slopes in Lushan are examined through post-earthquake field investigations, landslides inventories, and comprehensive field monitoring. The landslides triggered by the earthquake were primarily concentrated along both banks of the Donghe River in Baoxing County, predominantly manifesting as rockfalls. Geological disasters are predominantly occurred along fault zones and water systems, where vulnerabilities are heightened near 1 km of these faults. The topographic features, lithological composition, and rock mass structure significantly influences the Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA). Notably, PGA experience a sudden increase in areas with slope breaks and loose soil layers, leading to initiation location of the landslide. In the monitoring profile, the PGA amplification factors increases significantly along the slope surface: PGA at the upper slope is 1 to 2 times greater than that of the hilltop reference point, and within the loose soil layer, it ranges from 1.5 to 3.0. Seismic waves in the 1–5 Hz frequency range are notably amplified in this profile, as evidenced by analysis of the Fourier spectrum and Horizontal to Vertical Spectral Ratio (HVSR) curve. The monitoring profile data reveals that site conditions have a pronounced influence on the amplitude of the acceleration, surpassing the magnification effects of terrain and elevation. In disaster investigations, deviations in the development of disasters from the epicentral area are observed, especially in regions with complex geological structures like nappe tectonics. In such cases, it is crucial to emphasize the impact of both the macroscopic and microscopic epicentershaode. Additionally, more attentions should be paid to understanding the seismic response of slopes, particularly concerning earthquake-triggered landslides.
Short Playful Interactions Improve Executive Functions in Children
Authors: Yaffe Daniela , Shtoots Limor , Isakow Omer Kochav , Daniel Yuval , Reuveni Omer , Shoshi Keisari , Golland Yulia
Published: October 2024

Executive Functions (EFs) are foundational for lifelong flourishing, supporting crucial capacities such as planning, decision-making, and self-regulation. Research indicates that EFs in children are malleable, with both long-term and short-term interventions facilitating the acquisition of these vital skills. Consequently, there is significant interest in enhancing EFs from early childhood. Social playfulness, a natural core aspect of children's lives, supports broad developmental benefits and may improve EFs. This study examined the effect of a short playful interaction compared with an active control interaction on children’s EF performance and mood. Sixty-two children aged 6 to 10 years participated in either a playful or control interaction with an adult female. The results showed that the playful interaction, but not the control interaction, improved attentional performance as measured with the Flanker task. Furthermore, playful interaction enhanced children’s positive mood and led to stronger social bonds with the co-player. These promising findings imply that playful interactions are multidimensional natural activities that target cognitive, emotional, and social functions simultaneously. We suggest that social playfulness holds unique potential for interventions aimed at training EFs in primary school children, as it is highly enjoyable and easy to learn and integrate into daily activities.
Non-Muscle Myosin Heavy Chain IIA regulates cell morphology, stress fibre structure and cell migration in FLO-1 oesophageal adenocarcinoma cells
Authors: Duff Deirdre , Gargan Siobhan , Long Aideen
Published: October 2024

The incidence of oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC) is increasing at a rapid rate in Western countries. Early oesophageal cancer is often asymptomatic and metastatic disease is common at presentation leading to poor prognosis and survival rates. Cell migration is tightly controlled in the healthy cell but can become dysregulated in diseases such as OAC where increased cell motility and migration can contribute to metastasis. We investigated the role of an actin-based molecular motor, non-muscle myosin heavy chain IIA (NMHCIIA) in the migratory capacity of oesophageal adenocarcinoma cells. Immunofluorescence microscopy and ratiometric imaging demonstrated that NMHCIIA co-localises with F-actin at the leading edge and retracting rear of migrating FLO-1 OAC cells. siRNA mediated depletion of NMHCIIA from FLO-1 cells altered cell morphology, gave rise to an increased number of stress fibre like structures and reduced FLO-1 cell migration. These findings suggest that NMHCIIA influences FLO-1 cell migration by regulating F-actin dynamics and the actin cytoskeleton, providing insight into the mechanisms of migration employed by OAC cells and identifying NMHCIIA as a potential therapeutic target for this disease.
Remnant Cholesterol as a Predictor of Cardiovascular Outcomes in Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients with Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Levels Below 1.8 mmol/L: Insights from the MPCS-ACS Study
Authors: Yang Hai-Tao , Yang Yi , Liu Jing-Kun , Zhang Jun-Shi , Zhang Jing
Published: October 2024

Aims: This study aimed to investigate the influence of remnant cholesterol (RC) on the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) who have tightly controlled low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels.
Methods: Analyzing data from the MPCS-ACS study, this investigation targeted individuals aged 18 to 79 diagnosed with ACS, who were admitted to three Chinese medical centers between June 2016 and May 2021, and who maintained LDL-C levels below 1.8 mmol/L.
Results: Out of 17,500 screened patients, 4,329 were analyzed. RC levels were calculated, with patients then categorized into quartiles. The primary focus was on all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Secondary objectives involved assessing the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) as well as major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE). Through analysis of outcome events across different groups, coupled with multivariable adjustments and the use of restricted cubic splines, findings revealed that RC is a significant, independent risk factor for adverse outcomes in ACS patients when LDL-C levels are strictly controlled below 1.8 mmol/L, and this association remains significant even when LDL-C levels are further controlled below 1.4 mmol/L. Restricted cubic splines analysis illustrated a U-shaped, non-linear relationship between RC levels and endpoint events (all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, MACE, and MACCE), with the lowest risk observed at RC levels ranging from 0.29 to 0.45 mmol/L.
Conclusions: The study identifies RC as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular complications and highlights its U-shaped correlation with adverse outcomes.
Measurement of peripheral nerve magnetostimulation thresholds of a head solenoid coil between 200 Hz and 88.1 kHz
Authors: Barksdale Alex C. , Ferris Natalie G. , Mattingly Eli , Śliwiak Monika , Guerin Bastien , Wald Lawrence L. , Davids Mathias , Klein Valerie
Published: October 2024

Magnetic fields switching at kilohertz frequencies induce electric fields in the body that can cause peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS). Magnetically induced PNS, i.e. magnetostimulation, has been extensively studied below 10 kHz. It is widely characterized using a hyperbolic strength-duration curve (SDC), where the PNS thresholds monotonically decrease with frequency. The very few studies performed at higher frequencies found significant deviations from the hyperbolic SDC above ~ 25 kHz, however, those measurements are sparse and show large variability. We fill the gap in the data by measuring PNS in the head of 8 volunteers using a solenoidal coil at 16 frequencies between 200 Hz and 88.1 kHz. Contrary to the hyperbolic SDC, PNS thresholds did not decrease monotonically with frequency, but reached a minimum ~ 25 kHz. The thresholds then increased by 39% from 25 kHz to 88.1 kHz on average across subjects. Our measurements can be used for guidance and validation of neurodynamic models and to inform PNS limits of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) gradient coils and magnetic particle imaging (MPI) systems. The observed deviation of the experimentally measured thresholds from the hyperbolic SDC calls for further study of the underlying biological mechanisms of magnetostimulation beyond 25 kHz.