bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laser Ablation for Benign and Malignant Thyroid Nodules – A
Mini-Literature Review
Authors: Negro Roberto
Published: October 2023

Background::

Thyroid nodules are a common disease in endocrine clinical practice.
They are often benign, asymptomatic, and do not require any treatment. But, in a non-negligible
proportion, they can cause local symptoms of compression or esthetic concerns. In the last two
decades, the advent of laser ablation (LA) has become a valid alternative to surgery for these
nodules. Moreover, LA has also been successfully used to treat small thyroid cancers and neck
recurrence.

Objective::

This study aims to review and summarize the published literature regarding LA in
the treatment of benign and malignant thyroid nodules.

Methods::

A comprehensive literature search on PubMed from 2000 to 2023 was carried out.
The search terms included: thyroid, nodules, laser, cancer, lymph node metastasis, and autonomously
functioning nodules. The most relevant investigations in the field were selected.

Results::

In the last two decades, a very remarkable number of papers consistently demonstrated
that LA is able to durably shrink benign nodules on average by about 50%; better results are
obtained in spongiform nodules with a volume less than 15 ml; 500 J/ml of tissue should be administered.
LA may be a valid option to treat autonomously functioning nodules and papillary
thyroid cancers especially if they are <10mm, and with neck recurrence in patients already submitted
to surgery. LA has also been demonstrated to be cost-effective compared to surgical
treatment both in benign and malignant lesions, with similar outcomes.

Conclusion::

Evidence demonstrated that LA is a valid alternative to surgery in benign and malignant
thyroid lesions, but also to obtain a successful treatment, a careful selection of the lesion
is mandatory.
RBM3 Accelerates Wound Healing of Skin in Diabetes through ERK1/2 Signaling
Authors: Feng Jianguo , Long Menghong , Zhao Xin , Yan Pijun , Lin Yunxiao , Wang Maohua , Huang Wenhua
Published: October 2023

Background:

With the increasing risk of infections and other serious complications, the underlying molecular mechanism of wound healing impairment in diabetes deserves attention. Cold shock proteins (CSPs), including CIRP and RBM3 are highly expressed in the skin; however, it is unknown whether CSPs are involved in the wound-healing impairment of diabetic skin.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of RBM3 on skin wound healing in diabetes.

Methods:

In vitro experiments, western blot assay was used to test the levels of proteins in HaCaT cells treated with different concentrations of glucose. RBM3 was over-expressed in HaCaT cells using lentivirus particles. Cell viability was analyzed by Cell-Counting Kit-8 assay and colony formation assay. The migration of HaCaT cells at different concentrations of glucose was evaluated by wound healing assay. In vivo experiments, the mouse model of diabetes was established by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin. Four weeks later, the mice were anesthetized by intraperitoneal injection of pentobarbital sodium for skin tissue collection or wound healing experiments. RBM3 knockout mice were established by removing exons 2–6 using the clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)-Cas9 technique and then used in skin wound healing experiments with or without diabetic stress.

Results:

In this study, the expression of RBM3, rather than CIRP, was altered in the skin of diabetic specimens, and the RBM3’s overexpression accelerated the cell viability and proliferation of HaCaT cells under high glucose conditions. RBM3 deficiency caused delayed wound healing in RBM3 knockout in diabetic conditions. Moreover. RBM3 enhanced the ERK1/2 signaling pathway, and its inhibitor FR180204 blocked the beneficial effect of RBM3 overexpression on skin wound healing in diabetes.

Conclusion:

RBM3 activated the ERK1/2 signal to facilitate skin wound healing in diabetes, offering a novel therapeutic target for its treatment.
Targeting FGFR3 is a Useful Therapeutic Strategy for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Treatment
Authors: Yu Shan-Fu , Cheng Tien-Tsai , Huang Gong-Kai , Hsu Chung-Yuan , Kao Ying-Hsien , Chung Yueh-Hua
Published: October 2023

Background::

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inﬂammatory disease in which TNF-α plays an important role. Fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) is reportedly involved in RA by regulating expression of inﬂammatory cytokines.

Objective::

This study examined the expression profile of FGFR3 in human synovial biopsy tissues and evaluated its gene silencing effects on behaviors of synovial cells.

Methods::

Immunohistochemical staining was used to measure FGFR3 expression in human RA joint tissues. Cell proliferation, migration, and apoptosis assays were used to monitor behavioral changes in cultured synovial SW-982 cells with siRNA-mediated FGFR3 gene silencing. Immunofluorescent staining and western blotting were used to detect molecular changes in the FGFR3 gene silenced cells.

Results::

FGFR3 up-regulation was noted in both cytoplasms and nuclei of synovial cells in human RA joints. FGFR3 siRNA delivery experiments corroborated that FGFR3 knockdown decreased proliferation and migration, and triggered apoptosis of synovial cells. The FGFR3 gene knockdown enhanced constitutive expression of epithelial marker E-cadherin and conversely suppressed expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers, including Snail, fibronectin and vimentin. In addition, FGFR3 silencing significantly reduced the constitutive expressions of TNF-α, transcription factor NF-kB, and downstream COX-2 protein and collagenolytic enzyme MMP-9. MAPK inhibition markedly suppressed constitutive levels of NF-kB, COX-2 and MMP-9.

Conclusion::

Genetic interference of FGFR3 could modulate the expression of inflammatory mediators and EMT markers in the synovial cells. Targeting FGFR3/MAPK signal axis may be considered as a useful therapeutic strategy to ameliorate the development of RA.
A study on PM2.5 concentration in Bangkok, Thailand: A case study of Bang Na Station
Authors: Ketjalan Angkhana , Humphries Usa , Suadee Warawut
Published: October 2023

In contemporary times, air pollution has emerged as a pressing concern in major metropolises worldwide. Particulate matter, particularly PM2.5, has been identified as a key contributor to elevated pollution levels. While previous studies in Thailand have primarily focused on PM2.5 in agricultural, forestry, and industrial regions, they often examine its relationship with precursor gases (e.g., SO2, NOx, VOCs, and NH3) and hotspots. However, research pertaining to the capital city, Bangkok, remains limited due to its complex source composition and unnatural urban structure, leading to unique airborne conditions. This study seeks to explore the interplay between PM2.5, precursor gases, and meteorological factors in Bangkok. To assess the influence of precursor gases and meteorological variables on PM2.5 concentrations, correlation analysis and regression techniques were applied to monitoring data obtained from relevant government agencies. Notably, PM2.5 exhibited strong correlations with precursor gases, especially NO2 (correlation coefficient, R, ranging from 0.11 to 0.87), while SO2 showed more variable correlations (R ranging from -0.45 to 0.85). Furthermore, meteorological factors exhibited significant but slightly weaker correlations with PM2.5 compared to SO2 and NO2. This suggests that NO2 plays a dominant role in driving the secondary formation of PM2.5 in the Bang Na area. Regression analysis confirmed the strong association of NO2, SO2, and relative humidity with PM2.5, while other meteorological parameters displayed less significance, even the planetary boundary layer. Contrary to previous studies that primarily rely on real-time monitoring for short durations and emphasize potential pollution sources, our research underscores the pivotal role of precursor gases, particularly under high relative humidity conditions. To elucidate the secondary formation of PM2.5 from precursor gases within urban settings, future studies should encompass longer-term real-time monitoring of both precursor gases and meteorological variables, especially in urban areas
Refinement and Usability Analysis of an eHealth App for Ankylosing Spondylitis as a Complementary Treatment to Physical Therapy: Development and Usability Study
Authors: Nitschke Marlies , Nwosu Obioma Bertrand , Grube Lara , Knitza Johannes , Seifer Ann-Kristin , Eskofier Bjoern M , Schett Georg , Morf Harriet
Published: October 2023

Background

Mobile eHealth apps have been used as a complementary treatment to increase the quality of life of patients and provide new opportunities for the management of rheumatic diseases. Telemedicine, particularly in the areas of prevention, diagnostics, and therapy, has become an essential cornerstone in the care of patients with rheumatic diseases.

Objective

This study aims to improve the design and technology of YogiTherapy and evaluate its usability and quality.

Methods

We newly implemented the mobile eHealth app YogiTherapy with a modern design, the option to change language, and easy navigation to improve the app’s usability and quality for patients. After refinement, we evaluated the app by conducting a study with 16 patients with AS (4 female and 12 male; mean age 48.1, SD 16.8 y). We assessed the usability of YogiTherapy with a task performance test (TPT) with a think-aloud protocol and the quality with the German version of the Mobile App Rating Scale (MARS).

Results

In the TPT, the participants had to solve 6 tasks that should be performed on the app. The overall task completion rate in the TPT was high (84/96, 88% completed tasks). Filtering for videos and navigating to perform an assessment test caused the largest issues during the TPT, while registering in the app and watching a yoga video were highly intuitive. Additionally, 12 (75%) of the 16 participants completed the German version of MARS. The quality of YogiTherapy was rated with an average MARS score of 3.79 (SD 0.51) from a maximum score of 5. Furthermore, results from the MARS questionnaire demonstrated a positive evaluation regarding functionality and aesthetics.

Conclusions

The refined and tested YogiTherapy app showed promising results among most participants. In the future, the app could serve its function as a complementary treatment for patients with AS. For this purpose, surveys with a larger number of patients should still be conducted. As a substantial advancement, we made the app free and openly available on the iOS App and Google Play stores.
The Efficacy and Feasibility of an Interoceptive Exposure Technique for Preventing the Transition From Subacute to Chronic Back Pain by Altering the Emotional Response to Pain: Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Orenius Tage Ingemar , Ristolainen Leena , Silén Esko , Hurri Heikki
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, mood, emotions, cognitive functioning, and pain behavior are relevant to the onset of pain and its continuation in the transition to chronic conditions. Subacute low back pain (LBP), a precursor to chronic LBP, is particularly poorly understood, and its relationships with psychological factors are understudied.

OBJECTIVE

We will conduct a study aiming to prevent the chronicity of subacute LBP by altering the emotional response to pain using an interoceptive exposure technique (IET). Considering the recent increase in knowledge about psychological risk factors, as well as recent findings in cognitive neuroscience regarding emotional and cognitive background factors in the LBP chronicity process, efforts should be made to discover effective preventive methods.

METHODS

We present a novel method aiming to prevent the transition from subacute to chronic back pain by altering the emotional response to pain using an IET. In this pilot randomized controlled trial, participants who are at a higher risk of LBP chronification due to the presence of a biomarker (ie, functional connectivity between the medial prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens) will be randomly assigned to the IET intervention group or control group A (treatment as usual). Participants who do not present with the biomarker will be assigned to control group B (treatment as usual) to assess how well this biomarker predicts the chronification of subacute LBP in this study population. Questionnaires measuring the pain experience and psychological distress will be used before the intervention, after the intervention (at 3 months), and at the 12-month follow-up.

RESULTS

This research project will combine 2 novel methods: a biomarker as the inclusion criterion and an IET as the intervention. The comparative study design enables evaluation of the efficacy of the IET, as well as replication of the biomarker’s validity as a possible clinical screening method.

CONCLUSIONS

If found to be useful, the IET would offer a cost-effective and reasonable way to develop treatment for acute and subacute back pain conditions. Potential benefits include increased pain management and quality of life for the individual patient with the addition of a potentially useful functional pain management method at the societal level.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05450263; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05450263

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/45701
Design, Development, and Evaluation of an mHealth App for Reporting of Side Effects During Cytostatic Treatment: Usability Test and Interview Study (Preprint)
Authors: Hægermark Emil Aale , Kongshaug Nina , Raj Sunil Xavier , Hofsli Eva , Faxvaag Arild
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Using mobile health (mHealth) interventions such as smartphone apps to deliver health services is an opportunity to engage patients more actively in their own treatment. Usability tests allow for the evaluation of a service by testing it out on the relevant users before implementation in clinical practice.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to design, develop, and evaluate the user interface of an app that would aid patients with cancer in reporting a more comprehensive summary of their side effects.

METHODS

The usability test was conducted by exposing patients with cancer to a prototype of an mHealth app that allowed for reporting of side effects from a chemotherapy regimen. After solving a set of 13 tasks, the test participants completed a system usability scale questionnaire and were interviewed using a semistructured interview guide. The interviews were later transcribed and analyzed.

RESULTS

The 10 test participants had a mean age of 56.5 (SD 7.11) years. The mean total task completion time for the task-solving session was 240.15 (SD 166.78) seconds. The calculated system usability scale score was 92.5. Most participants solved most of the tasks without any major issues. A minority reported having difficulties using apps on smartphones in general. One patient never achieved a meaningful interaction with our app prototype. Most of those who engaged with the app approved of features that calmed them down, made them more empowered, and put them in control. They preferred to report on side effects in a detailed and concise manner. App features that provided specific advice could provoke both fear and rational action.

CONCLUSIONS

The user tests uncovered design flaws that allowed for subsequent refining of an app that has the potential to enhance the safety of patients undergoing home-based chemotherapy. However, a refined version of the app is unlikely to be of value to all patients. Some might not be able to use apps on smartphones in general, or their ability to use apps is impaired because of their disease. This finding should have implications for health care providers’ overall design of their follow-up service as the service must allow for all the patients to receive safe treatment whether they can use an mHealth app or not.
Engagement in Serious Games and Impact of Game Design Choices:Systematic Review (Preprint)
Authors: Yao Jiahui , He Canqun
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

Serious games have attracted substantial attention in recent years due to their potential to stimulate and to engage players in education, healthcare and training. Player engagement is an essential factor in the effectiveness of serious games. The impact of serious game mechanisms (such as narrative, reward, interaction, feedback and challenge) on player engagement needs to be comprehensively reviewed. Identifying key factors that facilitate or hinder player engagement helps designers create more engaging and immersive gaming experiences.

OBJECTIVE

This study intends to conduct a comprehensive review of empirical studies concerning engagement within the realm of serious games. Our primary objective is to assess thoroughly the effectiveness of various game design factors in enhancing player engagement, focusing on three distinct dimensions: game mechanics, game incentives, and game connections. Furthermore, we aim to provide a concise overview of the methodologies and tools employed for evaluating engagement in the experiments conducted.

METHODS

We conducted a search on the Web of Science Core Collection online database for meticulously crafted academic papers published from June 2013 to June 2023, concentrating on the nexus of player engagement and game design. Our search encompassed research keywords like "serious games," "experience," and "engagement," among others, which yielded a substantial repository of 4,228 relevant articles. Following a meticulous screening process, we pinpointed a cohort of 68 quantitative studies that conformed to our review criteria. These articles underwent categorization using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) method.

RESULTS

Game design elements were categorized into game mechanics (31%), game incentives (38%), and game connections (31%). The measures employed encompassed standardized scales (22%), non-standardized scales (34%), mixed scales (6%), and multidimensional scales (38%). Notably, the predominant focus of research was directed towards narrative, virtual rewards, cooperation, and competition as the most frequently examined game elements. Within this paper, we conduct an in-depth examination and explication of the relationship between these elements and participant engagement within meta-analysis section.

CONCLUSIONS

Results consistently affirm the positive influence of game narrative on engagement. Badges reign supreme in Problem-Based Learning (PBL) systems, outperforming rankings and points. However, PBL systems display initial success but grapple with sustaining long-term motivation, partially due to the "novelty" effect. Cooperation strongly correlates with elevated player engagement. The review underscores the absence of standardized engagement measurement methods in serious games research, often relying on observational data and custom scales. The conclusion of this paper can help designers to create more engaging and context-relevant serious game content.
Added Value of Medical Subject Headings Terms in Search Strategies of Systematic Reviews: Comparative Study (Preprint)
Authors: Leblanc Victor , Hamroun Aghiles , Bentegeac Raphaël , Le Guellec Bastien , Lenain Rémi , Chazard Emmanuel
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND

The massive increase in the number of published scientific articles enhances knowledge but makes it more complicated to summarize results. The Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) thesaurus was created in the mid-20th century with the aim of systematizing article indexing and facilitating their retrieval. Despite the advent of search engines, few studies have questioned the relevance of the MeSH thesaurus, and none have done so systematically.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to estimate the added value of using MeSH terms in PubMed queries for systematic reviews (SRs).

METHODS

SRs published in 4 high-impact medical journals in general medicine over the past 10 years were selected. Only SRs for which a PubMed query was provided were included. Each query was transformed to obtain 3 versions: the original query (V1), the query with free-text terms only (V2), and the query with MeSH terms only (V3). These 3 queries were compared with each other based on their sensitivity and positive predictive values.

RESULTS

In total, 59 SRs were included. The suppression of MeSH terms had an impact on the number of relevant articles retrieved for 24 (41%) out of 59 SRs. The median (IQR) sensitivities of queries V1 and V2 were 77.8% (62.1%-95.2%) and 71.4% (42.6%-90%), respectively. V1 queries provided an average of 2.62 additional relevant papers per SR compared with V2 queries. However, an additional 820.29 papers had to be screened. The cost of screening an additional collected paper was therefore 313.09, which was slightly more than triple the mean reading cost associated with V2 queries (88.67).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results revealed that removing MeSH terms from a query decreases sensitivity while slightly increasing the positive predictive value. Queries containing both MeSH and free-text terms yielded more relevant articles but required screening many additional papers. Despite this additional workload, MeSH terms remain indispensable for SRs.
Perfiles y orígenes de las concepciones de ciencia de los profesores mexicanos de química
Authors: Flores Camacho Fernando , Gallegos Cázares Leticia , Reyes Cárdenas Flor
Published: October 2023

Este trabajo presenta los resultados de una investigación sobre las concepciones de ciencia de profesores de química de secundaria. Se presentan sus perfiles epistemológicos haciendo un análisis de conglomerados y se dan elementos para conocer los orígenes, en términos de fuentes de conocimiento, de sus concepciones. Para ello se aplicó un cuestionario y una entrevista a profesores en una muestra nacional. El análisis se llevó a cabo mediante corrientes filosóficas en tres ejes: descubrimiento, justificación y progreso científico. En cuanto a los orígenes, se investigaron los factores de la trayectoria escolar y académica de los profesores, encontrando relaciones entre sus ideas sobre la ciencia y su entorno cultural y académico
Distribution of Pattern Identification According to BMI in Functional Dyspepsia Patients and Analysis of Frequently Used Herbal Medicines: A Retrospective Chart Review
Authors: Yoon Chae-Rim , Keum Chang-Yul , Han Aram , Choi Su-Hyun , Jeong Nahyun , Jeong Dahee , Jeong Hae-in , Ha Na-Yeon , Kim Jinsung
Published: October 2023

Objectives: This study analyzed the clinical characteristics of patients with functional dyspepsia (FD) who received Korean medicine treatment.Methods: A retrospective chart review was conducted to investigate sociodemographic characteristics, clinical characteristics, and prescribed treatments. The clinical records of 192 patients who visited Kyung Hee University Korean Medicine Hospital for FD from May 1, 2022, to May 31, 2023, were analyzed. In addition, the distribution of pattern identification and symptom type according to body mass index (BMI), as well as prescription history, were analyzed.Results: As the degree of obesity increased, the proportion of Spleen-Qi deficiency pattern patients decreased (p=0.012), and the proportion of damp-phlegm pattern patients increased (p=0.000). Additionally, as the degree of obesity increased, the proportion of patients with excess differentiation increased (p=0.002). The PDS (Postprandial distress syndrome) symptom type was significantly more frequent in the underweight and normal groups than in the overweight and obese groups, and the EPS (Epigastric pain syndrome) symptom type was more frequent in the overweight and obese groups. Regardless of the type of pattern identification, the most frequently used prescriptions were Naesowhajung-tang, Hanshin Naeso-san, and Sojeokgunbi-hwan granule.Conclusion: This study analyzed the medical records of patients with FD to elucidate the use of Korean medicine treatments. Our study is meaningful in that we found that the distribution of pattern identification and symptom patterns are linked to the degree of obesity in FD patients and identified the tendency for herbal medicine treatments to be prescribed in clinical practice.
Assessment of Combined Administration of Hypoglycemic Agents and Herbal Extracts (Pyeongwi-san or HyangsaPyongwi-san) on Blood Glucose Levels in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Jung Woo-nyoung , Oh Seung-hyun , Song Mee-ryoung , Noh Ji-won , Ahn Young-min , Ahn Se-young , Lee Byung-cheol
Published: October 2023

Abstract: This retrospective study delved into the effects and safety considerations associated with the concomitant usage of hypoglycemic agents and herbal extracts, specifically Pyeongwi-san (PWS) or HyangsaPyongwi-san (HSPWS) in the context of type 2 diabetes mellitus management.Methods: The investigation involved 38 inpatients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who received PWS or HSPWS treatment at Kyung Hee University Korean Medical Hospital from January 2012 to December 2022. By investigating clinical attributes and conducting laboratory assessments, this study aimed to discern the impact of these herbal extracts on blood glucose levels, encompassing fasting blood sugar (FBS) and mean 2-hour postprandial glucose (PP2) levels. Furthermore, the safety profile of the herbal extracts was assessed by comparing liver function indicators, including aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alongside kidney function markers, such as blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine (Cr).Results: Following the administration of the herbal extracts, no statistically significant alterations in FBS and mean PP2 levels emerged compared to the baseline levels. Notably, the safety evaluation revealed no significant differences in liver and kidney function parameters following herbal extract administration.Conclusion: The results of this research indicate that using PWS or HSPWS alongside hypoglycemic medications could be a beneficial additional method for addressing digestive symptoms in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Notably, this combination seems to have no negative interactions with other drugs.
Bowel Perforation Treated with Acupuncture and Gami-Gamchogungang-tang : A Case Report
Authors: Seo Hyun-sik , Kim Jun-yeol , Ju Han-eum , Jo Young-min , Bae Hye-ri , Cho Jung-hyo
Published: October 2023

Objective: This case report details the successful management of bowel perforation through traditional Korean medicine. Often, emergency surgery is required due to potential complications, such as peritonitis. In this case, the patient had previously undergone a total colectomy, making surgical treatment complicated.Methods: The patient revealed persistent abdominal pain and over 20 instances of diarrhea per day. During the course of treatment, which included two hospitalizations and one outpatient visit, acupuncture treatment and herbal medicine were administered. Throughout the treatment period, the intensity of abdominal pain and the frequency of diarrhea gradually decreased.Results: At the end of treatment, a follow-up abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan showed no evidence of perforation. Additionally, blood tests revealed no abnormalities in liver or kidney function, confirming the safety of the treatments.
Trade and food services in the methods for assessing quality of life
Authors:   The Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, the Far-Eastern institute of management – branch of RANEPA, Mazankova T. V.
Published: October 2023

The author analyzed and summarized approaches and methods for assessing the quality of life. Methods for assessing quality of life include indicators of material consumption and social connections. These indicators reflect the contribution of trade and public catering to improving the quality of life. The range of indicators characterizing the consumption of trade and food services is wide. Absolute, relative, structural indicators of consumption, quantitative indicators of the presence of a trading network, and subjective assessment of the quality of services are used. The results of the rating assessment in terms of consumption of trade and food services included in the calculation of the quality of life rating, calculated by VEB.RF (Khabarovsk) and the Agency for Strategic Initiatives (Khabarovsk Territory) indicate a low subjective assessment of quality with relatively high quantitative indicators of consumption and provision of trade area and food outlets in Khabarovsk and the Khabarovsk territory. Regional authorities in their work to improve quality of life should take into account the current results of market transformations in the society.
NOTAS SOBRE A ESCRITA CIENTÍFICA E A LITERATURA
Authors: Abreu Edson
Published: October 2023

Este artigo tem por objetivo discutir as possíveis relações entre técnicas de escrita literária e a escrita científica, considerando os possíveis benefícios que um estilo mais “literário” poderia ter nos trabalhos científicos. Para isso, em um primeiro momento, realizou-se uma discussão sobre a relação entre forma e conteúdo e sobre como os diferentes modos de ver esta relação resultam em diferentes maneiras de escrever. Em um segundo momento, foram discutidas diferentes técnicas e abordagens utilizadas por escritores para tornar seus textos mais adequados àquilo que querem dizer, explorando elementos como o estilo e os efeitos, a narração e a brevidade. Busca-se demonstrar, durante o percurso, a necessidade de um enfoque maior no processo do escrever científico por parte dos cientistas.
Impacto da transição demográfica no sistema único de saúde
Authors: Augusto Casotti Cezar
Published: October 2023

Apesar de tardiamente, quando comparado aos países desenvolvidos, a população brasileira tem experimentado, ao longo dos últimos anos, mudanças significativas no padrão demográfico. Durante décadas, a taxa de natalidade no país foi alta, o que fez com que fossemos chamado de país do futuro, devido a expressiva participação do grupo etário das crianças frente ao dos jovens, adultos e idosos.

Contudo, a cada censo demográfico realizado no país, observa-se redução da participação do grupo das crianças, em decorrência da queda acentuada da fecundidade, e aumento do contingente populacional de idosos, em devido aumento da expectativa de vida, fruto de melhoria, mesmo que lenta, das condições sociais e econômicas...
climetrics: An R package to quantify multiple dimensions of climate change
Authors: Taheri Shirin , Naimi Babak , Araújo Miguel
Published: October 2023

Climate change affects biodiversity in diverse ways, necessitating the
exploration of multiple climate dimensions using standardized metrics.
However, existing methods for quantifying these metrics are scattered
and tools for comparing alternative climate change metrics on the same
footing are lacking. To address this gap, we developed “climetrics”
which is an extensible and reproducible R package to spatially quantify
and explore multiple dimensions of climate change through a unified
procedure. Six widely used climate change metrics are currently
implemented, including 1) Standardized Local Anomalies; 2) Changes in
Probabilities of Local Climate Extremes; 3) Changes in Areas of
Analogous Climates; 4) Novel Climates; 5) Changes in Distances to
Analogous Climates; and 6) Climate Change Velocity. For climate change
velocity, three different algorithms are implemented and available
within the package including; a) Distanced-based Velocity (“dVe”); b)
Threshold-based Velocity (“ve”); and c) Gradient-based Velocity
(“gVe”). The package also provides additional tools to calculate the
monthly mean of climate variables over multiple years, to quantify and
map the temporal trend (slope) of a given climate variable at the pixel
level, and to classify and map Köppen-Geiger (KG) climate zones. The
climetrics R package is seamlessly integrated with the rts package for
efficient handling of raster time-series data. The functions in
climetrics are designed to be user-friendly, making them suitable for
less-experienced R users. Detailed comments and descriptions in their
help pages and vignettes of the package facilitate further customization
by advanced users. In summary, the climetrics R package offers a unified
framework for quantifying various climate change metrics, making it a
useful tool for characterizing multiple dimensions of climate change and
exploring their spatiotemporal patterns.
Demand Uncertainty and the Production of Audit Services
Authors: Ayres Douglas R. , Kleppe Tyler J. , Shipman Jonathan E. , Stanfield Jason W.
Published: October 2023

Economic theory suggests that demand uncertainty should influence producer behavior. In this study, we empirically examine the impact of demand uncertainty on the production of audit services. Auditors must make resource allocation decisions in advance of exact demand being known, and because a large portion of auditors’ capacity-related commitments are fixed and therefore difficult to adjust in the short run, uncertainty in client demand outcomes likely imposes costs on auditors. Consistent with auditors being compensated for these costs, our results indicate that both audit price and audit production timing are affected by a client’s uncertainty in demand for audit services. We also find that these compensation mechanisms act as substitutes used by auditors to alleviate the costs imposed by demand uncertainty. Our study contributes to the growing literature on the underlying economics of the audit market and answers recent calls for analysis of demand-side factors that influence the audit industry.

Data Availability: Data are available from the sources cited in the text.

JEL Classifications: M40; M41; M42.
Investigations on laser beam welding of thin aluminum foils with additional filler wire
Authors: Nothdurft Sarah , Seffer Oliver , Hermsdorf Jörg , Kaierle Stefan
Published: October 2023

Nowadays, battery-electric drives and energy storage are elected to be the future technologies. In the manufacturing of parts for electric applications, laser beam welding is an appropriate and favorable welding method. The characteristics of high welding speed, local heat input, and the contact-free process allow efficient and automatable processes. For electrodes, mainly copper and aluminum are used. Many foils with thicknesses of an area of 10 μm have to be connected to create battery cells. Different than expected, aluminum is a more challenging material to produce than others. Pore formation is also extended in aluminum due to the presence of air between the foils. The connecting cross section is thereby reduced. Furthermore, there is detachment in the fusion area and a high weld seam undercut. In addition to insufficient clamping, a lack of material reduces strength and, thus, usability. In the research presented here, the use of aluminum filler wire (AA 1050A) and shielding gas are investigated for the application of welding 40 aluminum foils (AA 1050A) with a thickness of 15 μm to an aluminum sheet with a thickness of 2 mm using infrared laser beam wavelength. The aims of the process development are welds with high connection widths and high quality as well as reproducibility to provide excellent mechanical properties and the highest electrical conductivity.
Analisis upaya pemenuhan kebutuhan bertingkat tokoh jadag dalam film Turah 2016
Authors:   Program Studi Bahasa dan Sastra Indonesia, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia, Prasetio Anggih , Harini Yostiani Noor Asmi ,   Program Studi Bahasa dan Sastra Indonesia, Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia
Published: October 2023

This study aims to identify the humanistic aspects that experienced by the character Jadag in the film “Turah”. This research using descriptive qualitative method with data collection techniques observative and using Maslow's theory in identifying the humanistic aspects experienced. The data in this study is a conversation and the behavior of the character Jadag in the film “Turah”. This research focuses on the efforts of Jadag leaders in meeting multilevel needs. Research result shows that the character Jadag in the film "Turah" has made every effort to fulfill humanistic needs based on Maslow's theory. Keywords: Humanistic, Maslow's Theory, Turah movies
PENGARUH SUPLEMENTASI JINTEN HITAM (Nigella sativa L.) TERHADAP KONSUMSI RANSUM, PERTAMBAHAN BERAT TUBUH, KONVERSI RANSUM, DAN MORTALITAS PADA AYAM KAMPUNG JANTAN
Authors: Chania Dita , Santosa Purnama Edy , Sutrisna Rudy , Nova Khaira
Published: October 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh pemberian Nigella sativa L. terhadap konsumsi ransum, pertambahan berat tubuh, konversi ransum dan mortalitas pada ayam kampung jantan. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan pada Desember 2022--Februari 2023 di Laboratorium Lapang Terpadu, Fakultas Pertanian, Universitas Lampung. Penelitian ini menggunakan RAL (Rancangan Acak Lengkap) dengan empat  perlakuan  dan  setiap  perlakuan  diulang tiga  kali yaitu ransum tanpa Nigella sativa L. (P0), ransum + 36 mg/kg BB/hari Nigella sativa L. (P1),  ransum + 72 mg/kg BB/hari Nigella sativa L. (P2),  dan ransum + 144 mg/kg BB/hari Nigella sativa L. (P3). Setiap satuan percobaan terdiri dari 5 ekor ayam kampung jantan, sehingga total ayam yang digunakan yaitu 60 ekor. Peubah yang diamati yaitu konsumsi ransum, pertambahan berat tubuh, konversi ransum, dan mortalitas. Data yang diperoleh dianalisis menggunakan analisis ragam pada taraf nyata 5%. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa penambahan Nigella sativa L. tidak berpengaruh nyata (P>0, 05) terhadap konsumsi ransum, pertambahan berat tubuh, konversi ransum dan mortalitas pada ayam kampung jantan.
Research Note: How modern slavery legislation might reimagine New Zealand companies’ supply chains
Authors: Burmester Brent , Stringer Christina , Michailova Snejina , Harre Thomas
Published: October 2023

Following other countries that have introduced or are about to enforce modern slavery legislation, New Zealand is considering a Modern Slavery Act. This research note argues that for such legislation – whether imposing transparency or due diligence requirements – to be effective, it needs to be clear about the reach of those duties with respect to companies’ supply chains. This clarity is currently missing in foreign legislation; New Zealand has a chance to rectify this and introduce legislation that stimulates constructive change in the behaviour of organisations.
The Concept of Patriotism in the Worldview of F.M. Dostoevsky: Experience of Historical-Philosophical Reconstruction
Authors:   Orenburg Branch of the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administra-tion, Gorokhov Pavel A. , Yuzhaninova Ekaterina R. ,   Orenburg State University
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study is to reconstruct – based on the creative heritage of F.M. Dostoevsky – by means of histor-ical and philosophical analysis his concept of patriotism, which is an integral part of the philosophical worldview of the great writer and thinker. Dostoevsky’s patriotism included adoration of Russian history and culture, Orthodoxy as the highest and purest form of Christianity, respectful attitude to world culture and anti-Zionism, criticized by the thinker as an antipode of the Russian idea of universal humanity. Through his work Dostoevsky tried to create a synthesis of Slavophilism and Westernism, taking from these heterogeneous and contradictory spiritual currents all the best, in particular – the Slavophiles’ love for the Fatherland and the West-erners’ desire for world culture and European education. The methodological basis of this work includes the hermeneutic method as the interpretation and recon-struction of meanings, comparative historical analysis, and philosophical comparative studies.
Transhumanist Aspect of Public Policy
Authors:   Larisa G. Cheremnykh, Cheremnykh Larisa G.
Published: October 2023

The relevance of the study lies in the need for a comprehensive assessment of the consequences of the im-plementation of the transhumanist concept in sociocultural practices. Until recently, political and legal institu-tions went hand in hand with human evolution and legitimized the resulting social transformations at the state level. However, the socio-cybernetic evolution that began at the end of the last century significantly accelerated the rhythm of life and changed the ontology of humanity. This circumstance forced political institutions to be proactive. Staking on human improvement with the help of high technologies, most modern states do not simp-ly stabilize society in all its diversity, but try to determine the optimal vector of social development and create a technological foundation for subsequent transformation. At the same time, particular attention is paid to the development of convergent technologies and the possibility of using them for the benefit of humanity.
Ethnic Origin and Identity of the Pomors: Approaches, Results, Conclusions
Authors:   Vologda State University, Tyapin Igor N.
Published: October 2023

The study is aimed at examining the intermediate results of the consideration of the problem of ethnogenesis and ethno-cultural identity of the Pomors in the domestic science of the XVIII – early XXI centuries. The re-search methodology is based on the principles of systemacity and historicism and includes methods of biblio-graphic analysis and systematization of information, problem-chronological method, comparative-historical method. Two opposing models of Pomor genesis and identity are characterized, one of which is based on con-structivism, the other on a moderate situativist approach and traditional conceptual apparatus. It is shown that the consequence of different interpretations of the results of scientific research was the identification of two opposite models of the genesis and identity of the Pomors, one of which methodologically relies on constructiv-ism with an external appeal to Paleoeuropean and Finno-Ugric cultural and genetic primordialism, the other – on a moderate (taking into account the primordialist principles) situationist approach and traditional conceptual and conceptual apparatus. Within the framework of the developments of the second model, it is proved that the process of formation of the Pomeranian community took not only the period of the mature and late Middle Ag-es, but also of Modern times and consisted of several local “genetic infusions” into the Slavic environment while preserving the cultural and linguistic components of the latter. Based on the analysis and understanding of the existing bibliography array, a number of conclusions and recommendations are made, the consideration of which is intended to ensure the scientific productivity of further research on the topic. These include the need to abandon the use of the concept of “protopomora” and statements about the stable genetic antiquity and ge-netic unity of the Pomors, the expediency of chronotypic localization of the concept of “Pomorie”, the unscien-tific use of the White Sea dialects, the pidgin “Russenorsk” and the history of Bespop communities of the Pomor as ethnic markers, the correctness of considering the Pomors as primarily a socio-economic group, the rele-vance of the application of the primordial conceptual apparatus in cultural terms, relying on the Russian lan-guage basis, etc.
Historical and Social Factors of the Political Position of the Cossacks of the South of Russia during the Civil War (1917–1920)
Authors:   Kuban State Agrarian University named after I.T. Trubilin, Chikaeva Karina S. , Shalin Viktor V. ,   Kuban State Agrarian University named after I.T. Trubilin
Published: October 2023

The article examines the historical and social factors that led to the formation of the political position of the Cossack population of Southern Russia during the Civil War. The relevance of the study is determined by the peculiarities of federal policy in various regions of Russia at the present stage of development of Russian soci-ety and the state, taking into account the historical originality and socio-cultural specifics of individual regions included in the federal space. In this context, the history of the Cossack regions of the South of Russia is highly relevant and in demand when analyzing modern regional, political and socio-economic processes, as well as the historical experience of development of individual territories that constitute the Russian Federation. As part of the study, the authors come to the general conclusion that a certain position of the Cossacks, which they took during the civil conflict in the region, was largely conditioned by the general state of society in this period, as well as by the historical contradictions that existed in it between its various social strata during the long historical period preceding the onset of the civil armed conflict.
The Formation of Harbin as a Russian Center of Agricultural Production, Agricultural Culture and Science. 1898–1931. (To the 125th Anniversary of the Founding)
Authors:   Institute of History, Archaeology and Ethnography of the Peoples of the Far East,  Far Eastern Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Beloglazov Gennady P.
Published: October 2023

In the article dedicated to the anniversary date – the 125th anniversary of the founding of Harbin, in retrospect, the author analyzes the cultural and industrial and technological influence of Russia on the modernization of the agricultural and industrial complex of the north-eastern frontier of China – the NEC (Manchuria). A brief analysis of the history of Harbin's development as a major center of the formation of Russian agricultural pro-duction, agricultural culture and science is given. The role of the Land Department of the KVZhD, the Manchuri-an Agricultural Society (MAS), the Society for the Study of the Manchurian Region (OSMR), as well as 3 agricul-tural Centers identified by the author in the process of research, with experimental fields at them, including the Harbin Experimental field, which played a leading role in the zoning of new crops for the region. The contribu-tion of Russian agricultural scientists and agricultural practitioners of Harbin to the development of the agricul-tural complex of the region is assessed. It is concluded that in the 1910–20s. By the beginning of the Japanese occupation of Manchuria in 1931, Harbin was formed as the basic center for the formation and development of the modern agrarian-industrial complex in the economic organization of the region at that time, which served to transform the traditional agrarian structures of this region of China.
Military Art of Ancient China in the Era of the Three Kingdom
Authors:   Krasnodar Higher Military Aviation School of Pilots, Dorofeyev Sergey P.
Published: October 2023

The military art of Ancient China, which was developed on the basis of the military-theoretical heritage of Sun Tzu, Wu Tzu, contains many examples of achieving victory in war through military cunning, improving tactical techniques of armed struggle, as well as information and psychological impact on the enemy’s troops and population. The era of the Three Kingdoms in the history of China occupies a relatively short period of time – 220–280 A.D., however, the qualitative characteristics of the military aspect deserve special attention. The mili-tary leadership abilities of Cao Cao, Zhuge Liang, Sima Yi and other commanders clearly demonstrate the pro-gress in the development of strategy and tactics, military engineering construction of the Celestial Empire. Along with land forces, consisting of infantry and cavalry, there is a river flotilla, capable of solving problems of a strategic nature. The confrontation of the three kingdoms is reflected in the historical chronicles of Chen Shou, the epic of Luo Guan-zhong, numerous studies by Chinese and foreign experts. Sun Tzu’s recommen-dations and instructions were applied in the United States to wage psychological warfare against Russia.