bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilização da acupuntura estética e ventosaterapia no tratamento de rugas dinâmicas faciais
Authors: Souza Geyse Kerolly Brasileiro Lima , Leal Lázara Thalita Ferreira , Bridi Vanessa Bridi Vanessa , Do Prado Débora Pereira Gomes , Ribeiro Isabella da Costa , Freitas Francianny França , De Moura Vanessa Oliveira Lopes , Rezende Hanster Hallison Alves
Published: July 2023

As rugas faciais dinâmicas são linhas e dobras que se formam no rosto como resultado de movimentos musculares repetidos. A diminuição da espessura das camadas e estrutura elástica da pele, causada pela perda de colágeno e elastina, e da baixa capacidade de regeneração celular decorrente da idade proporciona o surgimento das rugas, sendo essas as mais comuns e que tendem a aparecer ao longo dos anos. Outros fatores, além do avanço da idade devem ser considerados, como hábitos de vida, fatores genéticos, ambientais e psicológicos. Estes podem potencializar o surgimento das rugas. Visando um tratamento preventivo e minimamente invasivo, a Medicina Tradicional Chinesa (MTC) utiliza de técnicas eficientes no tratamento e prevenção de rugas faciais. Desta forma, o presente estudo visou avaliar a eficácia e os benefícios da acupuntura estética facial, com a utilização de agulhas faciais e ventosaterapia, no tratamento de rugas dinâmicas. Foram selecionados oito participantes, quatro mulheres e quatro homens, com idade entre 25 a 35 anos e o procedimento foi realizado duas vezes por semana, doze sessões cada participante. Os pontos a serem trabalhados foram escolhidos de acordo com anamnese e protocolos pela acupuntura. Ao final da pesquisa foram realizadas avaliações de satisfação, podendo observar os resultados através dos registros fotográficos e ficha de satisfação preenchida pelo participando. Após 12 sessões, obteve-se diminuição das rugas dinâmicas, suavização das linhas de expressão, redução de manchas e aumento da tonicidade da pele. Dos participantes, 75% avaliaram como muito satisfeitos e 25% avaliaram como satisfeitos. Concluindo assim que a acupuntura conciliada a ventosaterapia, obtiveram resultados estéticos positivos e melhora na qualidade de vida dos participantes.
CHANGES IN THE CROPLAND AREAS OVER 250 YEARS (CASE STUDY A KEY PLOT IN THE MOSCOW REGION)
Authors: Ivanova N.N. , Fomicheva D.V. , Shamshurina E.N.
Published: July 2023

Based on data from old and modern maps and satellite images we reconstructed the arable land borders within a key plot (100 km2) in the Moscow region for 8 time periods, from the General Land Survey (1767) to the present day. Brief descriptions for the special geometric plans of the Bogorodsk, Dmitrov and Moscow districts (“uyezd”) of the Moscow province (“guberniya”) were analyzed for accurately describing the land use displayed on the General Land Survey plans. The contours of arable lands on the general land survey plans (1767) of the studied area refer to those under constant cultivation, while periodically abandoned land were described and measured separately. The dynamics of arable land borders for the studied period was analyzed using the scheme of landscape zoning, and data on the lithological and geomorphologic structure of the territory and morphometric characteristics of its relief. The prevailing slope gradients and the area of arable lands are identified for each time period. The maximum percentage of arable land under constant cultivation (42%) is characteristic for the end of the 18th century; the minimum (8%) is in evidence at the present time. It was found that the proximity to settlements and the degree of soil drainage were the principal factors determining the spatial structure of arable lands.
Enhancing Scalability through Extended Hybrid Switching with Mixture Path Deployment (EHS-MPD): A Novel Framework
Authors: Vijesh K  , Sachin Aparna
Published: July 2023

In today's digital landscape, the exponential growth of data has created significant challenges for archiving systems. Existing solutions often struggle to cope with the ever-increasing data volumes, leading to scalability limitations, reduced efficiency, and inflexibility. To address these challenges, this research paper introduces a novel approach that extends hybrid switching with a mixture path deployment framework. By combining the benefits of hybrid switching techniques and the adaptability of the mixture path deployment framework, our proposed approach aims to enhance scalability, efficiency, and flexibility in archiving systems while minimizing the risks of data loss and system failures. This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the design, implementation, and evaluation of our approach, highlighting its key features, benefits, and potential impact on archiving systems. We review existing archiving approaches, identifying their limitations and shortcomings. Then, we delve into the concept of hybrid switching, exploring its advantages in optimizing network performance. Additionally, we introduce the mixture path deployment framework, emphasizing its benefits in load balancing, fault tolerance, and performance improvement. The proposed approach's architecture is presented, showcasing the integration of hybrid switching techniques and the mixture path deployment framework. Strategies for efficient data placement and management are discussed, including dynamic data placement algorithms and metadata management techniques. The design and implementation of the extended archiving system are described, outlining the interactions among its components. Overall, our novel approach to archiving high scalability through extending hybrid switching with a mixture path deployment framework offers a promising solution to address the limitations of existing archiving systems. It enables improved performance, flexibility, and fault tolerance, paving the way for efficient and scalable archiving solutions in the era of big data.
Lost in the Web. Children in the world of the Internet
Authors: Kowalczuk Karol
Published: July 2023

Digital natives are characterized by unprecedented efficiency in the use of new technologies, and their broad skills affect the fact that they can explore network resources in a very comprehensive way. However, despite their digital competences, they often show insufficient ability to reflect on the use of network solutions, and thus are more exposed to new dangers on the Internet. The aim of the article is to supplement the catalogue of cyber threats related to the presence of children and young people on the Internet through the characteristics of selected and relatively new online threats. The article uses a content analysis covering both scientific publications as well as Internet articles presenting current network threats, the analysis of which in scientific journals is still insufficient. Constant monitoring of new threats on the Internet is an important issue both from the perspective of a parent and a teacher, because only current knowledge in this area allows effective protection of children and youth.
Study of musical competences of early childhood education teachers
Authors: Schrager Katarzyna , Pietruszka Adam
Published: July 2023

The article presents the results of a survey conducted among early childhood education teachers in randomly selected primary schools in Poland. The aim of the study was to determine the level of musical competence of early childhood education teachers and to identify tools that would help improve the quality of their music lessons. In the theoretical part, the authors show how important the period of early childhood is in music education, i.e., among others, stage of early childhood education, and they refer to research showing that teachers with appropriate musical education have a much greater impact on the development of musical competences in children compared to teachers without such education. The conclusions of the study indicate the need for better education of early childhood education teachers in the field of musical competences at the academic level, e.g., increased number of hours devoted to music classes, learning to play harmonic instruments such as guitar or ukulele, and training in new digital technologies possible to use in music education, that would help them conduct their classes.
Nieobecni nie maj racji obecno jako kluczowa kategoria pedagogiczna. Recenzja ksiki Daniela J. Siegela, Tiny Payne Bryson, Potga obecnoci. Jak obecno rodzicw wpywa na to, kim staj si nasze dzieci, i ksztatuje rozwj ich mzgw. Wydawnictwo Mamania, Warszawa 2020
Authors: Ecler-Nocoń Beata
Published: July 2023

Recenzja ksiki Daniela J. Siegela, Tiny Payne Bryson, Potga obecnoci. Jak obecno rodzicw wpywa na to, kim staj si nasze dzieci, i ksztatuje rozwj ich mzgw. Wydawnictwo Mamania, Warszawa 2020
Empathic Communication Parents and Children with Cancer at the Indonesian Cancer Child Care Foundation (YKAKI) Pekanbaru City
Authors: Anita Fenny , Mustaqimmah Nurul , A. Muis Rosalina
Published: July 2023

Cancer is not only a health problem for adults ; it is also a major health problem for children . The pediatrics oncology polyclinic in Riau Province , particularly in Pekanbaru City, recorded 1,918 cancer patients . Generally , cancer sufferers are more closed to themselves , withdraw from the environment , and rejected what happened _ to them , so that most cancer sufferers surrender , lose motivation , and lose self-confidence . Empathiccommunication can help Cancer survivors motivate , understand , and understand their feelings and attitudes , as well as their hopes and desires for the future . As a result , parental empathic communication is required . The purpose of this study was to determine the empathic communication between parents and children with cancer at YKAKI Pekanbaru. this study involved three informants who were parents of children with cancer and one support respondent . Methods of data collection using interviews , observations , and documentation techniques The results of this study indicates that empathetic communication between parents and children can take the form of prioritizing communication , providing motivation to children , showing patience and sincerity , influencing children's responses , and growing a sense of comfort in children . All findings from this study show forms of empathic communication between parents and children with cancer at YKAKI Pekanbaru City
EFEKTIVITAS METODE DISKUSI PAK UNTUK MENINGKATKAN MINAT BELAJAR PESERTA DIDIK KELAS V SDN LEBAO TANJUNG
Authors: Natalia Upa Fernandez
Published: July 2023

Efektivitas metode diskusi PAK dilakukan untuk meningkatkan minat belajar peserta didik kelas V SDN Lebao Tanjung. Masalah penelitian ini adalah rendahnya minat belajar peserta didik kelas V SDN Lebao Tanjung. Tujuan dari penelitian ini untuk mengetahui keberhasilan metode diskusi PAK dalam meningkatkan minat belajar peserta didik kelas V SDN Lebao Tanjung. Metode yang digunakan adalah penelitian deskriptif kualitatif. Teknik pengumpulan data melalui observasi dan wawancara. Subjek dalam penelitian ini sebanyak delapan narasumber. Lokasi penelitian dilakukan di SDN Lebao Tanjung, kecamatan Tanjung Bunga, kabupaten Flores Timur. Teknik Analisis data melalui tiga tahap yaitu reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil dari penelitian ini bahwa pembelajaran dengan menggunakan metode diskusi dapat meningkatkan minat belajar peserta didik di SDN Lebao Tanjung.
Exploring the effects of medical cannabis for chronic pain
Authors: Erridge Simon
Published: July 2023

Exploring the effects of medical cannabis for chronic pain

Dr Simon Erridge of Sapphire Medical Clinics discusses the therapeutic effects of medical cannabis for chronic pain, affecting 15.5 million people in England and why more evidence is needed to support greater patient access. In November 2018, medical cannabis was rescheduled in the UK, allowing for the prescribing of unlicensed products manufactured from the cannabis plant for the first time since 1973. Chronic pain is now the most common condition for which medical cannabis is prescribed, according to the UK Medical Cannabis Registry. (1) Considering this increase in prescribing for eligible UK patients, it is important to understand the underlying science of how it affects the human body. Medical cannabis is the term given to a broad spectrum of medications that can be derived from the cannabis plant. The cannabis plant is thought to contain more than 540 active pharmaceutical ingredients; however, the most abundant compounds are cannabidiol (CBD) and (-)-trans-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). (2) The main mechanisms of action of these are via the body’s own cannabinoid system, which consists of molecules very similar to those found in the cannabis plant and receptors they bind to, causing downstream effects. One of the most important effects of this system is to regulate the firing of signals through nerves. (3,4) Some have therefore likened the endocannabinoid system to a dimmer switch for the nervous system.
NIJ puts science to work for justice system stakeholders
Authors: La Vigne Nancy
Published: July 2023

NIJ puts science to work for justice system stakeholders

Nancy La Vigne PhD, Director of the National Institute of Justice, shares perspectives on how the Institute advances justice across the nation and beyond, strengthening the scientific tools and discoveries that support justice system stakeholders. The National Institute of Justice’s job is to generate the science that advances justice, mostly through research grants it awards to colleges, universities, and research institutes. As Director, La Vigne manages their efforts to ensure that NIJ, firstly, invests in research that addresses today’s problems while working toward a safer future and, secondly, disseminates that research widely. Nancy La Vigne discusses how new research must engage justice system stakeholders in clear, practical terms they understand, why there is a need for research through an equity lens, and how we can put science to work for justice requires clear communication of practical applications.
Improving AI/ML services for ophthalmology and medicine
Authors: Buckland Eric
Published: July 2023

Improving AI/ML services for ophthalmology and medicine

Eric Buckland, PhD of Translational Imaging Innovations, delves into how we can achieve better transparency, traceability, and reproducibility in AI/ML for ophthalmology and medicine. Biomarkers are indispensable to finding cures and developing new therapies for degenerative eye diseases. Biomarkers are objectively measurable characteristics or indicators of normal biological processes, disease processes, or responses to therapeutic interventions. Biomarkers are essential to decision-making throughout drug development and patient care management. Dr. Buckland seeks to explain how biomarkers and clinical endpoints can transform ophthalmology, AI and ML for healthcare applications, and how biomarker development relies on transparency, traceability & reproducibility. Overall, Translational Imaging Innovations has committed to “delivering the most convenient and productive solutions for ophthalmic biomarker discovery and clinical endpoint validation”. TII aims to enable translational researchers to develop better diagnostics and better therapies with more predictable benefits – faster, cheaper, and less frustrating.
The question of being 'Roman': Examining ancient history more closely
Authors: Maier Felix K
Published: July 2023

The question of being 'Roman': Examining ancient history more closely

Professor for Ancient History at the University of Zurich, provides an intriguing and instructive analysis of the question of being ‘Roman’ in his most recent ancient history focus. My history research project analyses the dynamics of different identities in the Roman Empire from around 50-150 AD. This project seeks to understand the often-paradoxical dynamics of different identities in a multicultural empire and to stimulate a discussion about hidden aspects of social interactions that we still need to understand correctly. Although the Roman era is entirely different to our times, some critical questions relate to today’s world, where social and political distinction mechanisms also lead to open or concealed conflicts.
The effect of soil degradation on human, animal and plant health
Authors: Sprunger Christine
Published: July 2023

The effect of soil degradation on human, animal and plant health

Soil degradation is the biological, physical, chemical, and biological decline of soil quality or health. This phenomenon is problematic because it reduces the capacity of soils to support plant and animal life. Additionally, it reduces the ability of soils to regulate essential ecosystem services such as water regulation and nutrient cycling. Soil degradation has become a global issue and has come about largely due to land conversion from forests and grasslands to intensive agricultural practices. Land conversion depletes soil organic matter values, releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, contributing to global climate change and reducing soil fertility and soil health. Dr. Christine Sprunger, soil scientist and ecologist at W.K. Kellogg Biological Station (KBS) and the Department of Plant, Soil, and Microbial Sciences at Michigan State University, discusses the danger of soil degradation on human and animal life, and what we can do to mitigate it.
Insights into magnesium batteries using calorimetry
Authors: Ziebert Carlos
Published: July 2023

Insights into magnesium batteries using calorimetry

Dr Carlos Ziebert, Leader of the Group Batteries – Calorimetry and Safety, KIT, explains how generated heat and self-discharge of magnesium batteries can be studied through calorimetry. In 2019, the KIT, the University of Ulm, the Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden- Württemberg, and the University of Giessen jointly launched the POLiS - Cluster of Excellence for Battery Research Post Lithium Storage, funded by €47 million over seven years. Such post-lithium batteries use more abundant and environmentally friendly materials, such as Sodium, Magnesium or Calcium, instead of Lithium, Nickel and Cobalt. The work in the group Batteries – Calorimetry and Safety at the Institute for Applied Materials – Applied Materials Physics (IAM-AWP) started with coin cells that were provided by the Helmholtz Institute Ulm (HIU) and the Institute of Nanotechnology (INT).
Urban living laboratories: Opportunities for modelling sustainability transitions
Authors: Dal-Poz Maria Ester , Francisco Erika Cristina , Paytan Adina Paytan , Wirth Timo von , Charlesworth Susanne , Fried Jana
Published: July 2023

Urban living laboratories: Opportunities for modelling sustainability transitions

Here, a group of academics present Urban Living Laboratories to study sustainable food production systems, using systems dynamic modelling to analyse policy alternatives. Urban Living Laboratories (ULLs) have shown first promising signs of being valuable platforms for understanding transition phenomena. To address our time’s diverse grand societal challenges (like climate change and biodiversity loss), we must transition to truly sustainable systems, possibly the most significant shift facing modern civilisations. Such transitions involve coupled technological, social, economic and environmental shifts and demand transformative approaches with new forms of organisation and management.
Understanding thermolabile protecting groups for nucleic acid-based drugs
Authors: Beaucage Serge L
Published: July 2023

Understanding thermolabile protecting groups for necleic acid-based drugs

Serge L. Beaucage investigates thermolabile protecting groups for the amine functions of purine and pyrimidine deoxyribonucleosides for the development and implementation of synthetic DNA sequences as nucleic acid-based drugs. The high demand for nucleic acid-based drugs, earmarked for treating human diseases, requires improved chemical methods for rapid and efficient chemical synthesis of synthetic DNA and/or RNA sequences with protecting groups before being processed and manufactured in sufficient quantity and purity for clinical indications. Given that the purity of synthetic DNA/RNA sequences is of the utmost importance for their intended purposes, sustained research efforts have been made.
Drug repositioning without the gene expression of disease cells treated with drugs
Authors: Taguchi Y-h
Published: July 2023

Drug repositioning without the gene expression of disease cells treated with drugs

Y-h. Taguchi, Professor at the Department of Physics, Chuo University in Japan, provides comments on drug repositioning without the gene expression of disease cells treated with various drugs. Finding new drugs to treat diseases is always tricky. For example, although we have an effective mRNA vaccine for COVID-19, no effective drugs to treat COVID-19 have yet been identified. Since the difficulty is due to experiential evaluation, it is better to have a computer-oriented method. But how? We have one proposal for this at the Department of Physics, Chuo University in Japan. In our previous Open Access Government article, we introduce how to use gene expression (1) with which several drugs were treated for drug repositioning. The problem with the studies described in the last piece is that the strategy could be used only for diseases whose gene expression is retrieved. In the study described in the previous article, we analyzed gene expression profiles of cancer cell lines. Thus, the drug repositioning we could identify was only those toward cancers. This is a little bit problematic. If we would like to perform drug repositioning for other diseases, we need to prepare cell lines made from cells of target diseases. Since cancer cells are abnormal in some sense, it is not difficult to add immortality to cancer cell lines. Thus, we can easily maintain cancer cell lines in a Petri dish, but it is not the case for other cells. In addition to this, it is often challenging to collect cells from target diseases. It is time-consuming to treat cells of target diseases with various drugs.
Nutritional management of chronic kidney disease in pets
Authors: Creech Renea , Wilson Kim
Published: July 2023

Nutritional management of chronic kidney disease in pets

Renea Creech and Kim Wilson outline the challenges of Chronic Kidney Disease in pets, the irreversible loss of kidney function, and how nutrition can help. Approximately one in three cats and one in ten dogs are likely to develop kidney disease in their lifetime. (1,2) Increased incidence of diagnosis occurs in older pets, particularly in cats. (3,4) A longevity study showed renal disorders were a major cause of death in cats over five years (5), and upwards of 80% aged over 15 years are affected by Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) or other renal disorders. (3,4) Clinical signs include vomiting, decreased appetite, increased water intake, and total and lean body mass loss. Veterinarians often analyse urine and blood samples to determine biomarker levels such as serum creatinine and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA). The International Renal Interest Society provides veterinarians with guidance for diagnosing and managing kidney disease based on staging, with stage 1 representing early CKD and stage 4 severe CKD. (6)
Opioid use for chronic pain: Part 2
Authors: Buckley Norm , Busse Jason
Published: July 2023

Opioid use for chronic pain: Part 2

Norm Buckley and Jason Busse from the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Pain Research & Care in Canada probe the effectiveness of opioid use in Canada as a treatment for chronic noncancer pain. Current best estimates suggest that 12% of individuals with chronic noncancer pain will achieve meaningful pain relief with opioids; however, there is a disconnect between the evidence for effectiveness and the ubiquity of opioid prescribing in North America.
Renewfood manufacturing: Food production for a nourished, resilient nation
Authors: Wong Tuck Seng
Published: July 2023

Renewfood manufacturing: Food production for a nourished, resilient nation

Dr Kang Lan Tee, Matthew Hutchinson, Joe Price and Professor Tuck Seng Wong from the University of Sheffield explain the importance of re-imagining food production to support people and the planet. Food transcends its basic role as a human necessity, encompassing a multifaceted significance in our lives. Beyond its fundamental function of providing nutrition and sustenance, food is a profound social instrument, it not only nourishes our bodies but also nourishes our relationships and interactions. Food production is undoubtedly vital to livelihoods everywhere. We gather around a shared meal with our family and friends, using this communal experience to foster and maintain deep interpersonal connections. In business, food is a catalyst for successful negotiations as we convene with clients or customers over a meal, forging bonds and laying the groundwork for prosperous partnerships.
Supporting ICT employment opportunities for women in Egypt
Authors: Assaad Ragui , Selwaness Irene
Published: July 2023

Supporting ICT employment opportunities for women in Egypt

Ragui Assaad and Irene Selwaness examine the increase of women in ICT jobs in Egypt, as well as gender disparities and the efforts to promote ICT employment growth. With the increasing withdrawal of the public sector as a major employer in Egypt, the Egyptian labour market has become increasingly inhospitable for women. Female employment rates declined steadily from 19.5% in 2009 to 13.7% in 2021. Women’s employment has been falling in absolute terms at a rate of 1.1% per year from 2009 to 2021, while the female working-age population has been increasing at 2.5% annually. Information and communication technology (ICT) jobs are a major bright spot in this bleak landscape. According to a recent report on Egypt’s ICT jobs, ICT employment for women has been growing much faster than in other segments of the economy and much faster than for men (Selwaness, Assaad and El Sayed, 2023). The report defines ICT jobs as all jobs in ICT industries and jobs in ICT occupations in non-ICT sectors.
Emergent dimensionality: Exploring all possible (and unobservable) extra dimensions
Authors: Łukaszyk Szymon
Published: July 2023

Emergent dimensionality: Exploring all possible (and unobservable) extra dimensions

Emergent dimensionality (ED) is the idea that reality may not exist as an observer-independent 3-dimensional space. Instead, it may be generated for each observer based on an omnidimensional graph that contains all possible (and unobservable) extra dimensions. In other words, each observer perceives reality as 3-dimensional, but this reality emerges from a higher-dimensional structure. TED is related to the perception of reality because it suggests that what we perceive as a 3-dimensional space is not the full picture of reality.
Solutions for healthy ageing: how technology can make a difference
Authors: Mihailidis Alex
Published: July 2023

Solutions for healthy ageing: how technology can make a difference

How do we help older adults maintain their independence and quality of life with healthy ageing? Professor Alex Mihailidis, Scientific Director and CEO of AGE-WELL Network of Centres of Excellence argues that improving wellbeing in older people should come from innovative technology. Research finds that technological advancements can help older people maintain relationships with family and friends, reduce social isolation, pursue hobbies, manage all aspects of health, and stay active and in their own homes as they age. To further this research, AGE-WELL brings together researchers, older adults, caregivers, partner organizations (industry, government, community) and future leaders to accelerate the delivery of technology-based solutions that increase safety and security, support independent living and enhance social participation. While technology can never replace the human touch, it is an essential tool in the toolbox to support healthy ageing, and for this to improve for the older generation, technologies must become accessible, affordable and available to all.
Knee pain and osteoarthritis (Knee OA) treatment research
Authors: Lyu Shaw-Ruey
Published: July 2023

Knee pain and osteoarthritis (Knee OA) treatment research

Professor Shaw-Ruey Lyu from the School of Medicine, Tzu-Chi University, discusses Knee Pain and Osteoarthritis (Knee OA) Treatment Research, in particular Knee Health Promotion Option (KHPO). Starting from 2002, I conducted a series of studies(1-3,5,6,8,9) to investigate medial abrasion phenomenon (MAP) as a cause of knee OA. I found a high correlation between medial plica-related MAP and knee OA. MAP would elicit lifelong interplay between a pathologic medial plica and the facing medial femoral condyle, and therefore plays a role in the pathogenesis of knee OA both physically and chemically.(10,11,13) Consequently, I have developed the procedures of arthroscopic medial release (AMR)(4) and the concept of arthroscopic cartilage regeneration facilitating procedure (ACRFP)(7,15) for the treatment of knee OA.
Inspiring STEM education focused on solutions
Authors: Songer Nancy Butler
Published: July 2023

Inspiring STEM education focused on solutions

Nancy Butler Songer, from the University of Utah, makes a call for collective action to create a new curriculum focused on the design of solutions. June 5, 2023, marked The United Nations Environment Programme’s (UNEP) fiftieth anniversary of World Environment Day, the largest global platform for environmental public outreach. Hosted by Côte D’Ivoire, this year’s celebration emphasized a need for collective action and policy to realize known solutions, such as the sustainable design of products and materials to reduce how much plastic waste flows into aquatic ecosystems. World Environment Day helps us to recognize that to address many current environmental, educational, health, and economic challenges that have foundations in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines, we cannot rely on individuals or even experts within one area of science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or education. We must innovate with, study, and empower students, teachers, community members, and university and industry partners toward collective action.
The next frontier in anti-cancer drugs
Authors: Berdis Anthony J
Published: July 2023

The next frontier in anti-cancer drugs

Dr Anthony J. Berdis, Case Comprehensive Cancer Center discusses the future of cancer treatments and anti-cancer drugs. Being diagnosed with cancer is a horrifying experience for patients and their loved ones. What comes next – discussing treatment strategies – can also strike terror due to the numerous uncertainties associated with the process, procedures that will be used, and possible outcomes. Most cancers are treated using combination therapy in which surgery and/or radiation is first used to remove and eliminate as much cancerous material as possible. This is then followed by several rounds of chemotherapy, an anti-cancer drug designed to eradicate any remaining cancer cells. The goal of this strategy is to achieve remission or at least delay the cancer from returning for as long as possible.
What is the importance of friendship and mental health in pandemics?
Authors: Ryan Terence
Published: July 2023

What is the importance of friendship and mental health in pandemics?

Terence j Ryan, from the University of Oxford, explores the importance of friendship and mental health in relation to pandemics and immunity. In the last three years, there has been a significant rise in impaired mental health. Many have asked whether this rise is due to the COVID-19 infection itself or if it is a consequence of how officials managed the pandemic. A close colleague of mine, together running NHS and academic departments without a cross word for fifty years, had suffered from mild dementia and COVID in a care home and, as a result, was isolated from seeing his family and friends for over a year, except through a window. This was during the same period that I was a trustee of Actasia, working to prevent the cruelty and caging of wild animals. It is clear from conducting this work, that such cruelty impairs immunity and resistance and thus increases susceptibility to infection.
Optimising subsurface drip irrigation for effective drought defence
Authors: Jacoby Pete W
Published: July 2023

Optimising subsurface drip irrigation for effective drought defence

Professor Pete W. Jacoby from Washington State University describes how the innovative use of drip irrigation can enhance vineyard resilience to drought. Global warming threatens agricultural crop production and is a genuine concern to many worldwide, especially in regions dependent on sufficient precipitation during the growing season. The lack of rainfall necessary to produce a given crop within a rain-fed production area is defined as “drought”. Drought may vary in severity according to the period of dryness or the timing of its occurrence during critical crop development. The Palmer Drought Severity Index measures the severity of drought for specific regions. If deficiency occurs during sequential years, crop production may be threatened by the lack of natural rainfall or by public policies regulating the release of impounded surface water or pumping from aquifers below ground. Increased global warming may increase both drought severity and frequency of occurrence.
Transforming clinical capacity to be a force for good
Authors: Naydenova Elina
Published: July 2023

Transforming clinical capacity to be a force for good

Elina Naydenova, CEO of Feebris, shares her thoughts on how to improve the NHS clinical capacity, to serve more patients with enhanced healthcare technologies. Today, healthcare is evolving rapidly, mostly in response to pressing challenges such as workforce shortages, patient backlogs and an ageing population. In meeting the challenges of today, we can build clinical capacity and resilience for a better tomorrow. The decentralisation of healthcare is now inevitable; the system cannot be sustained without it, and patients demand it as the new standard of care. Performing specialised and emergency treatment will become the core of what hospitals are responsible for, and less specialised tasks will be increasingly shifted to community and home settings. Virtual wards and virtual care are essential pieces of this transformation.
Injury prevention research to reduce youth-sport related injuries
Authors: Emery Carolyn A
Published: July 2023

Injury prevention research to reduce youth-sport related injuries

Unintentional injuries are the leading cause of disability in youth (ages 10-19), with >50% sport-related.(1) One in 3 youth will seek medical attention for a sport-related injury and 1 in 10 for a concussion each year.(2) Injury leads to reduced physical activity and increased risk of chronic disease and obesity, which has risen ~20% in the past decade.(3) Prevention is the best medicine, and evidence-informed primary injury prevention solutions can ensure lifelong sport participation and all the associated health benefits. The Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre (SIPRC)at the University of Calgary aims to eliminate injuries and their consequences that prevent youth from lifelong participation in sport.
Employing robotics for inspection operations
Authors: Alexis Kostas
Published: July 2023

Employing robotics for inspection operations

Kostas Alexis of the Autonomous Robots Lab, Department of Engineering Cybernetics at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology, explores the use of autonomous robotics for inspection operations. Inspection operations maintain a crucial role within our societies. Industrial inspection is essential to ensure the safety of critical assets such as underground mines, maritime structures, power plants, and aerospace facilities. Notably, the costs associated with such inspection operations can be immense, while the underlying activities often expose humans to various risks and hazards.
CorTec's Brain Interchange™ system: Revolutionizing brain therapy with closed-loop neuromodulation
Authors: Schuettler Martin
Published: July 2023

CorTec's Brain Interchange™ system: Revolutionizing brain therapy with closed-loop neuromodulation

CorTec’s Brain Interchange™ system offers closed-loop neuromodulation, revolutionizing brain therapy by precisely adapting treatment based on individual needs. The central nervous system is a complex organ that receives, computes and forwards information using bioelectrochemical processes. Particular networks of brain cells are associated with various functions, e.g. cognitive or motoric capabilities. Disruption of network functionality, caused by injury or disease, leads to impaired brain function, which then causes multiple conditions such as motor disorders, e.g., Parkinson’s disease (PD), or mood/mental disorders, e.g., anxiety, schizophrenia, and depression.
How brain research is making the benefits of regular exercise accessible to all
Authors: Wessells Robert
Published: July 2023

How brain research is making the benefits of regular exercise accessible to all

Dr Robert Wessells, an Associate Professor at Wayne State University explains how the benefits of regular exercise can be delivered to those who are unable to move as easily, by identifying potential exercise mediators or mimetics which can deliver the benefits of exercise to sedentary people would be potentially transformative in reducing disease burden worldwide. Exercise is an indispensable part of our daily life to maintain a healthy body and brain across ages. Regular exercise also preserves healthy function during normal aging, improving quality of life and independence. Dr Wessells and his lab team have used the many genetic tools available for use in fruit flies to identify several single molecules that act as powerful exercise mimetics in the brain and muscle of sedentary flies. In his research, he explores chronic application of VR stimulation and whether they could have the same benefits in humans. The researchers imagine a future in which patients confined to bed rest could use “virtual” exercise to maintain metabolic health and avoid the complications induced by enforced sedentary behavior, a potentially transformative, low-cost change to health care. So far, the Wessells group, using a fruit fly model, have identified two proteins that are induced by circulating octopamine and can mimic the effects of exercise training when overexpressed in muscle.
Leveraging psychedelic therapies for binge eating disorder
Authors: Gilligan Jim
Published: July 2023

Leveraging psychedelic therapies for binge eating disorder

Here Tryp Therapeutics examine the viability of using psychedelic therapies for Binge Eating Disorder and the potential results that using psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy could have on different eating disorders. Tryp Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to the development of exclusive and innovative formulations for administering psilocin in conjunction with psychotherapy, aiming to address unmet medical needs in various diseases. Our primary focus is on our lead program, TRP-8803, which represents a proprietary formulation of intravenous (IV) infused psilocin, the active metabolite of psilocybin. This formulation overcomes several limitations associated with oral psilocybin administration. By directly administering psilocin via the intravenous route, we achieve the most precise form of dosing, ensuring the reproducibility of blood levels necessary for clinical efficacy while preserving safety. In contrast, oral administration of psilocybin relies on enzymatic conversion of psilocybin to psilocin, resulting in substantial variability in drug blood levels among patients, potentially confounding the planned outcome of clinical studies.
Biocontrol fungi for plant disease research
Authors: Zeilinger Susanne
Published: July 2023

Biocontrol fungi for plant disease research

Susanne Zeilinger, University Professor for Microbiology, underscores sustainable solutions for plant disease research, focusing on the power of biocontrol fungi. Plant diseases represent a significant threat to global food security and agricultural sustainability. Fungal pathogens, in particular, can cause massive agricultural losses by infecting and damaging crops, resulting in reduced yield, poor quality and economic losses. (1) Traditional approaches to managing phytopathogenic fungi include resistant crop varieties, cultural practices, and chemical fungicides. While the latter can effectively manage fungal diseases, their frequent use negatively impacts the environment and raises concerns regarding safety and potential harm to human health.
Using live theatre to foster faculty inclusion
Authors: Rose Suzanna
Published: July 2023

Using live theatre to foster faculty inclusion

Florida International University’s Bystander Leadership™ programme has collaborated with professional live theatre artists to increase awareness of gender and race bias among faculty through evidence-based practices. Bystander Leadership™ uses live theatre to teach participants the five steps of bystander intervention and leadership. The first two steps are to notice and interpret when workplace interactions reflect gender or race bias. The US National Science Foundation ADVANCE program funds the AWED Theatre programme.
Psychedelic therapies: The case for a new focus in the EU’s mental health care approach
Authors: Hawrot Tadeusz
Published: July 2023

Psychedelic therapies: The case for a new focus in the EU’s mental health care approach

Tadeusz Hawrot, Founder and Executive Director of PAREA, states the case for a new focus in the EU’s mental health care approach, that is the underserved area of psychedelic therapies. As we navigate deeper into the 21st century, the importance of mental health care is gaining increasing recognition. But we still have a long way to go. The OECD estimates that mental illness affects one in two individuals during their lifetime, making it an ever-present yet often overlooked aspect of overall well-being. (1) The World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report 2023 identifies mental health deterioration as a severe risk to economies and societies. (2) Yet, a startling reality is revealed in the WHO’s 2022 report: governments allocate, on average, only 2% of their health budgets to mental health. Furthermore, though making up 30% of total mental health sector funding, philanthropic donations represent a mere 0.5% of all health contributions. (3)
Environmental Factors and Health-Related Outcomes: A Study of Residents in Small Towns of Ethiopia
Authors:   Ethiopian Meteorology Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Assefa Mohammed Abera
Published: July 2023

Environmental factors play a crucial role in determining the health and well-being of individuals in both developed and developing countries. In Ethiopia, small towns are particularly vulnerable to the negative impacts of environmental factors on health. This study aimed to examine the relationship between environmental factors and health-related outcomes among residents of small towns in Ethiopia. A survey was conducted with a sample of 225 individuals, including questions about demographics, health-related behaviors, and environmental factors. The findings suggest that air pollution, access to green spaces, and physical activity opportunities are important determinants of health in these communities. Addressing these environmental factors requires a comprehensive and community-engaged approach that involves collaboration between various sectors and engagement with community members and local stakeholders. Future research could further explore the relationships between environmental factors and health-related outcomes in small towns of Ethiopia and other low- and middle-income countries.
The Relevance of Philosophy of Socrates to Modern Philosophy of Research
Authors:   Department of Quantity Surveying, Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo- Nigeria, Ayodele Elijah
Published: July 2023

This study determined the components of the philosophies of Socrates, explained the meaning and importance of the components and the relationships between them and analyzed the relevance of philosophies of Socrates to modern philosophies of research. The study was carried out through literature search on philosophies of Socrates. The components of Socrates philosophy are determined as: Questioning and Critical Thinking. Problems bring about Questions, Critical Thinking handles the questions to give birth to Solutions that solve the Problems or better still, that give way to expanded knowledge. Findings also include the importance of questioning as it helps in rethinking and challenging existing theories, helps in building confidence in areas of study, gives motivation to learn more on our areas of research i.e. broadens the mind, also enhances creativity in that it allows thinking from different angles to arrive at something novel, helps with the zeal to know more especially in the area of study and encourages positive change. More findings include the benefits of critical thinking as it encourages inquisitiveness, brings about creativity, promotes problem solving ability, a multi-faceted practice, and a skill for life. It is recommended that questioning and critical thinking be put to practice in research philosophy as contained in the Onion model research methodology propounded by Saunders et al (2019).
Who Contributed More on Calculus? Newton or Leibniz?
Authors: Lu Jiachen
Published: July 2023

Modern calculus is a strong tool in mathematical models and analysis. It is greatly applied in a variety of aspects including astrology, computer science, physics, business, etc. However, its origin has been debated between two great mathematicians from 18th century: Newton and Leibniz. Newton claimed to have invented calculus first, and had used this technique in some of his papers. However, no published records could prove his discovery. Leibniz published the first paper regarding the discovery of calculus “Nova Methodus pro Maximis et Minims” (New Method for the Greatest and the Least). Newton then accused Leibniz of stealing his idea and asserted his credit for inventing calculus. In this essay, to explain the cause of the Newton-Leibniz controversy, the discovery of calculus is evaluated from both Newton’s and Leibniz’s aspects. Their different methods are compared to answer the question: who is the true inventor of calculus?
Conceptual foundations of the behavioral approach to managing the system of financial and economic security of the state
Authors: Poltorak Anastasiia
Published: July 2023

Despite the fact that the use of the behavioral approach in the management of the system of financial and economic security of the state is relatively new, the study of the behavioral orientation of the financial system as one of the factors of functional changes will contribute to the formation of an effective mechanism for ensuring financial security. The growing role of the human factor, which is central in gender-oriented and behavioral aspects, increases the level of relevance of applying the behavioral approach in the process of managing the system of financial and economic security of the state. The purpose of this study is to substantiate the conceptual foundations of the behavioral approach to managing the state's financial and economic security system, which includes gender-oriented and behavioral aspects, and complements the systemic approach to managing the state's financial and economic security system. The features of state management of financial and economic security systems in various states are summarized and the main models and research centers of financial and economic security system management in the world are systematized.