bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of organic central precocious puberty in males: criteria for a high index of suspicion
Authors: Amodeo Maria Elisa , Deodati Annalisa , Pedicelli Stefania , Mirra Giulia , Pampanini Valentina , Cianfarani Stefano
Published: November 2024

Graphical abstract

Background

A high prevalence (40–75%) of organic brain lesions in boys with central precocious puberty (CPP) has been reported.

Objectives

To evaluate the causes of CPP in a large cohort of males and to identify the possible predictive factors for organic brain lesions in males.

Design

An observational study was conducted in 102 otherwise healthy boys with CPP diagnosed from 1998 to 2023 in a single tertiary center.

Methods

All boys underwent a thorough clinical, endocrine and neuroimaging assessment with a detailed evaluation of the pituitary region.

Results

Organic CPP was found in only 8/102 children (7.8%). Children with brain tumors were younger than 8 years, had no family history positive for precocious puberty and maternal menarche occurred at an age significantly more advanced than in children with idiopathic CPP. Headache was reported at diagnosis in 7/8 children with brain tumors. A progressive increase in the occurrence of idiopathic CPP in males has been observed in the last two decades with a peak of new diagnoses during the pandemic lockdown.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that the prevalence of pathological brain lesions in boys with CPP is considerably lower than previously reported, thus making the diagnosis less alarming. Age younger than 8 years, presence of neurological symptoms, family history negative for precocious puberty in the first-degree relatives and age of maternal menarche older than 11 years raise suspicion of organic CPP and should lead to prompt neuroimaging.

Significance statement

Differently from what has been reported in most previous studies, our study has shown a low incidence of brain tumors in male children with precocious puberty, thus making the diagnosis less alarming for parents and physicians. Some criteria for a high index of suspicion of brain tumors in boys with precocious puberty have been identified. Finally, a progressive increase in the occurrence of idiopathic CPP in boys has been observed over the past two decades with a peak of new diagnoses during the pandemic lockdown, as previously reported in girls.
Global Mean Surface Temperature: What Can We Learn from the Trajectory over a Millions-year Span?
Authors: Hoffman Peter J. , Lee Murray
Published: November 2024

Global mean surface temperature serves as a crucial metric in understanding the Earth’s climate dynamics, providing insights into long-term climate trends and variability. Over the course of a million years, the trajectory of global temperatures has been shaped by a multitude of factors, including natural climatic cycles, human activities, and external influences. By examining the historical trends and drivers influencing global mean surface temperature, researchers can gain valuable insights into the past, present, and future climate scenarios. This article delves into the intricate interplay of these factors and explores the lessons we can learn from studying the temperature trajectory over a million-year span.
A Re-examination of the Value of Educational Technology
Authors: Luo Yuhua
Published: November 2024

Technological advances in human history influenced the evolution of education to varying degrees. The widespread application of information technology in education has resulted in certain changes in educational materials, methods, environments, and research patterns. However, there is growing doubt about the transformative power of educational technology to change education for the better. This article is a review of the overall effect of emerging technologies on educational outcomes, with a focus on examining the unwelcome consequences of the use of educational technology, in the hope of providing implications for further research and practice in the integration of technology and education.
Digital Technology-Enabled “Three-Level Chain of Digital Education Communities” in Southwest Guizhou Autonomous Prefecture
Authors: Huang Jiliang
Published: November 2024

In the context of the accelerated development of information technology, digital education provides new impetus for further modernizing education, driving the improvement of educational equity and quality. Currently, how to improve the quality of education in underdeveloped ethnic minority areas is a pressing issue faced by China in its efforts to develop a balanced basic education. The digital transformation in education has the potential to bolster the overall standards of minority education by changing the traditional teaching methods and environment, increasing the accessibility of high-quality educational resources, and promoting teacher professional development in minority regions. This article focuses on expounding on Southwest Guizhou Autonomous Prefecture’s experimentation with the “three-level chain of digital education communities” program, which aims to promote the sharing of high-quality educational resources with the help of digital technology to propel the modernization of ethnic minority education in China.
Perspectives of Undergraduate and Graduate Students on Utilizing ChatGPT: Analyzing Its Role in Question Preparation
Authors: Özer Ece Ceren , Benzer Semra , Benzer Recep
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly integrated into daily life across various sectors such as banking, healthcare, tourism, and education. This research aims to investigate science teacher candidates’ opinions on using ChatGPT in education and their approaches to preparing questions with this artificial intelligence tool. Specifically, it aims to elucidate the role of ChatGPT in question preparation processes and its potential applications in education. A case study methodology was employed, focusing on 17 fourth-year science teacher candidates and 6 graduate students in a science education master’s program during the fall semester of 2023-2024. Data were collected using an interview form and images of participants’ conversations with ChatGPT. Content analysis of the data reveals that most participants intend to use ChatGPT in their teaching process for research and question creation. Participants provided specific details in their prompts to ChatGPT, including grade level, unit, subject area, learning outcomes, question type, number, and difficulty level. This study highlights the potential of ChatGPT to enhance educational practices and support teachers in personalizing learning experiences.
Insights into the structural, electronic and magnetic properties of gold clusters: Comparison between Au12Cr and Au12Mo clusters
Authors: Lan Ngo Thi , Nguyen Van Dang , Nguyen Thi Mai , Phung Thi Thu , Phan Thanh Phuong , Tran Xuan Quy , Le Thi Tuyet Ngan , Nguyen Thi Dung , Nguyen Thanh Tung
Published: November 2024

Modification of the chemical and physical properties with respect to element component in atomic clusters has paved the way for great potential in both fundamental study and applications. An investigation on the structure, stability and magnetic properties of gold clusters doped by Cr and Mo (Au12Cr and Au12Mo) is discussed in this work, using the density functional theory calculation. The bond strength of AuM dimers governs the globally minimum structural evolution in the Au12M clusters, which can be classified into two principal forms: the icosahedral (Mo dopant) and the cone-like structures (Cr dopant). The average binding and dissociation energies indicate that the enhanced stability of cluster stem from the contribution of Cr/Mo atom. The molecular orbital (MO) diagram and the spin distribution are computed to better understand the electronic configuration and magnetic behavior of the studies clusters. The Au12Cr has a significant magnetic moment of 4 µB. Conversely, the magnetic moment is completely quenched in Au12Mo cluster. Furthermore, the IR spectra of Au12M are also predicted.
Sosyal Karşılaştırma ve Medyanın Rekreasyon Faaliyetlerine Katılıma ve Psikolojik İyi Oluşa Etkisi
Authors: Yeşilyurt Cem , Akgündüz Yılmaz
Published: November 2024

Bu araştırmanın amacı sosyal medya kullanımı, sosyal karşılaştırma ve açık alan rekreasyon faaliyetlerine katılımın üniversite öğrencilerinin psikolojik iyi oluşlarına etkisini belirlemektir. Ayrıca araştırmada katılımcıların cinsiyet ve günlük olarak kendilerine ayırdıkları zamana göre açık hava etkinliklerine katılımlarının farklılık gösterip göstermediği de incelenmiştir. Veriler alanyazında geçerli ve güvenirliği kanıtlanmış ölçekler (sosyal karşılaştırma, sosyal medya kullanımı ve psikolojik iyi oluş ölçeği) ve sekiz adet açık hava etkinliğinin (yürü- yüş, dağ tırmanma, bisiklete binme, piknik yapma, gezme, bahçe işleri yapma, balık tutma ve parka gitme) yer aldığı bir anket formu ile yüz yüze toplanmıştır. Kolayda örneklem yöntemiyle 1-30 Mayıs 2024 tarihleri arasında gerçekleştirilen veri toplama süreci sonunda 193 adet geçerli ankete ulaşılmıştır. Araştırmanın hipotezleri çoklu regresyon analiziyle test edilmiş olup farklılıklar bağımsız örneklem t-testi ve tek yönlü ANOVA ile test edilmiştir. Bulgular sosyal medya kullanımının ve açık hava etkinliklerine katılımın öğrencilerin psikolojik iyi oluşunu artırdığını göstermektedir. Ayrıca açık hava etkinliklerine katılım, öğrencilerin cinsiyetlerine göre anlamlı farklılık göstermektedir.
Sunuş - Açık Alan Rekreasyonu Özel Sayısı ve Akla Getirdikleri
Authors: Tütüncü Özkan
Published: November 2024

Açık alanda yapılan boş zaman etkinliklerinin önemi, özellikle Kovid-19 karantinası sonrası ortaya çıkmıştır. Buna bağlı olarak, açık alan rekreasyonu ve sağlıklı yaşam odağında özel sayı yayınlanmasına karar verilmiştir. Çağrıya 44 araştırmacı başvuru yapmış, hakem süreçlerini tamamlayan 14 makale bu sayıda yayımlanmıştır. Gönderilen makalelerin geçirdiği süreçler, özel sayı editörünün gözünden değerlendirilmiştir. Araştırma ve yayın süreçlerinde karşılaşılan sorunlar, özellikle etik yaklaşımlar çerçevesinde ele alınmıştır.
Osteoarthritis among elderly: cross-sectional study of hospitalization between 2010 and 2022
Authors: Cueva-G.Cantón Aranzazu , Triay-Novelo Ivanna , Suárez-Sánchez Montserrat , Huchim-Lara Oswaldo
Published: November 2024

INTRODUCTION: Osteoarthritis is a common joint disease and one of the main causes of years lived with disabilities as well as one of the reasons for visits to health services. In 2020, 8% of the world's population has lived with this disease; however, the demographic trend could cause the increase in OA prevalence in the next years. This study aimed to describe the hospitalization characteristics of older adults with osteoarthritis diagnosis in Mexico between 2010 and 2022. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study. Records of hospitalized older adults diagnosed with OA contained in the databases of the Ministry of Health were included. Variables available were those related to patients (sex, weight, height, place of residence, ethnicity, and public health insurance) and hospital care (admission service, cause of discharge, month of hospitalization, and hospital stay). Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was carried out using Infostat®. RESULTS: Sixteen thousand fifty-six hospitalized older adults’ data were analyzed. The frequency was higher in women (64%) than in men (36%). The median age was 69.67; 40.10% of the patients were overweight; 54.74% had medical care; 52.16% were hospital-admitted by external consultation; 93.21% of elderly patients were discharged by clinical improvement; and the median period of hospitalization was three days. The main OA in 78.16% of the cases was knee osteoarthritis. CONCLUSION: In Mexico, osteoarthritis is more common in early adulthood and has gender differences. Gaps in health care can jeopardize successful aging and exacerbate older adults' health problems.
A NEUROCIÊNCIA E AS METODOLOGIAS DINÂMICAS PARA ALUNOS COM DEFICIT COGNITIVO
Authors: Costa Poliana Silva , Pereira Wagner Ferreira , Nascimento José Wilton Serrão , Silva Isabela Lobato Guedelha da , Cunha Daiana  Cássia do Carmo , Xavier Maria Cristina Rodrigues Silva , Negrão Cleonice Rodrigues , Costa José Francisco da Silva
Published: November 2024

Este artigo objetiva compreender a aplicação dos conhecimentos da neurociência no processo de ensino e aprendizagem voltados para alunos que possuem déficit cognitivo considerando abordagem teórica para aplicar nas práticas pedagógicas com intuito de melhorar o desenvolvimento cognitivo, superando as dificuldades a partir de metodologias dinâmicas, jogos e ludicidade.  Justifica-se a pesquisa considerando que a neurociência representa uma área capaz de auxiliar os alunos que possuem déficit cognitivo. As atividades metodológicas colaboraram para favorecer a plasticidade cerebral, promovendo um aprendizado significativo levando em conta as limitações e potencialidades dos alunos, A metodologia aplicada busca adotar uma abordagem qualitativa e bibliográfica com pesquisas em artigos, livros, teses e dissertações relacionados a teoria neurocientíficos e educacionais. Os resultados indicaram que atividades que estimulam simultaneamente múltiplas áreas cerebrais por meio de exercícios que combinam música, movimento e arte além de outras metodologias, são significativas para desenvolver habilidades cognitivas em alunos com déficit cognitivos, além disso, a neurociência aponta segundo estudos na área que o uso de metodologias como aplicação de jogos educativos é capaz de favorecer a aprendizagem incluindo ainda atividades que envolvem coordenação motora e concentração no processo educativo, pode fortalecer a neuroplasticidade, resultando em maior progresso no aprendizado.  Atividade metodológica é capaz de criar estratégias pedagógicas de acordo com perfil neurológico de cada aluno, pois a integração de conhecimentos da neurociência com práticas pedagógicas, auxilia quando aplicada numa abordagem mais eficaz e ainda atividades lúdicas e interativas que podem ativar os estímulos variados, tornando-se fundamentais para desenvolver habilidades cognitivas, reduzindo as dificuldades de aprendizagem. Conclui-se que o treinamento contínuo, em um ambiente acolhedor e adaptado, pode promover a plasticidade cerebral na melhoria do desempenho do déficit cognitivo. Portanto, a formação continuada em neurociência pode auxiliar para inovação metodológica, sendo aplicada à educação, a fim de desenvolver práticas cada vez mais inclusivas e eficientes.
The Role of Automated Decision-Making in Modern Administrative Law: Challenges and Data Protection Implications
Authors: Rudolf Grega , Kovač Polonca
Published: November 2024

Namen: Vključevanje umetne inteligence v avtomatizirano odločanje je prelomen trenutek za javno upravo. Prispevek obravnava uvedbo sistemov avtomatiziranega odločanja v upravne postopke, zlasti njihov vpliv na varstvo osebnih podatkov in temeljna načela upravnega prava.Zasnova/metodologija/pristop: Študija s pomočjo deskriptivne, normativne in dogmatske metode proučuje nedavne zakonodajne pobude in analizira izbrane primere uporabe avtomatiziranega odločanja v Sloveniji in tujini. Ob tem podrobneje analizira odločitev Sodišča EU iz leta 2023 v zadevi Schufa. S kombinacijo teoretičnih vidikov in praktičnih spoznanj študija ponuja primerjalno analizo evropskega in slovenskega zakonodajnega okvira.Ugotovitve: Prispevek presoja vpliv avtomatiziranega odločanja na ključna načela upravnega prava in varstva podatkov ter osvetljuje zakonodajne, organizacijske in tehnološke spremembe, potrebne za zagotovitev skladnosti avtomatiziranega določanja z obstoječo zakonodajo.Akademski doprinos k znanosti: Prispevek ponuja dragocene smernice za upravnopravno stroko in tako izboljšuje razumevanje uvajanja tehnologij avtomatiziranega odločanja v upravno prakso. Njegove ugotovitve so oblikovalcem politik in zakonodajalcem lahko v pomoč pri oblikovanju predpisov, ki vključujejo prednosti umetne inteligence, hkrati pa zagotavljajo, da so ti sistemi ustrezno nadzorovani.Raziskovalne/praktične/družbene posledice: Uvedba avtomatiziranega odločanja mora biti usklajena s pravnimi načeli, da se ohranijo preglednost, odgovornost in varstvo temeljnih pravic. Prispevek poudarja, da je pomembno ne le razumeti pravne posledice, temveč tudi zagotoviti, da tehnologije avtomatiziranega odločanja spoštujejo standarde dobrega upravljanja.Izvirnost/vrednost: Študija premika meje uveljavljenih pravnih okvirov in odpira kritična vprašanja o tem, kako temeljna načela upravnega prava in varstva podatkov prilagoditi novim tehnologijam. Umetno inteligenco vsekakor velja izkoristiti za povečanje učinkovitosti, hkrati pa je treba zagotoviti, da inovacije spoštujejo pravice posameznikov, varujejo javni interes ter podpirajo standarde dobre uprave in dobrega upravljanja.
The Challenges of AI in Administrative Law and the Need for Specific Legal Remedies: Analysis of Polish Regulations and Practice
Authors: Jakubek-Lalik Jowanka
Published: November 2024

Odločanje v upravnih postopkih se sooča s številnimi novimi izzivi. Javni organi odkrivajo prednosti sistemov umetne inteligence (UI) za izboljšanje učinkovitosti in natančnosti upravnih postopkov, ob tem pa se pojavljajo nove dileme, zlasti v zvezi z odgovornostjo, varstvom podatkov in splošnimi načeli upravnega prava. Koristi UI je zato treba presojati skupaj s povezanimi tveganji in grožnjami ter uvesti ustrezna sredstva za nadzor in spremljanje.Uporaba UI narašča tudi v poljski javni upravi, prav tako zanimanje za poenostavitev upravnih postopkov in avtomatizacijo izdajanja upravnih odločb. Vendar je treba ta razvoj skrbno spremljati, zlasti z vidika pravic državljanov in morebitnih napak, ki so drugačne od tistih v klasičnih, neavtomatiziranih upravnih postopkih.Namen: Prispevek obravnava izzive uvajanja orodij UI v upravno pravo in postopke ter potrebo po posebnih pravnih sredstvih. Postavlja se vprašanje, ali so pravna sredstva enaka kot v klasičnih upravnih postopkih in ali instrumenti iz obstoječe zakonodaje zadostujejo za zagotovitev ustreznega varstva pravic državljanov?Uporabljena metodologija vključuje analizo zakonodaje in politik, študijo praktičnih primerov ter proučitev spoznanj iz razprave na konferenci EGPA 2024.Ugotovitve se osredotočajo na analizo obstoječe zakonodaje tako z vidika njene uporabe kot praktičnega izvajanja, zlasti v luči uporabe UI v javni upravi. Najpomembnejši vidik je povezava med uporabo orodij UI in morebitno potrebo po oblikovanju novih ali prilagoditvi obstoječih pravnih sredstev na vseh področjih javne uprave, s posebnim poudarkom na izzivih avtomatiziranega odločanja.Praktične posledice zadevajo nove izzive, ki jih UI predstavlja za odločanje v upravnih postopkih. S praktičnimi primeri prispevek obravnava tudi, v kolikšni meri je treba pravna sredstva prilagoditi orodjem UI in kakšen je njihov vpliv na človekove pravice, kar bi zahtevalo ustrezne zaščitne ukrepe. Te posledice niso pomembne le s pravnega vidika, temveč tudi za pravne strokovnjake in javno upravo kot celoto.Izvirnost in vrednost prispevka je v razpravi o izzivih upravnih postopkov in pravnih sredstev v dobi UI. Ta tema je vsekakor aktualna, saj bo uporaba UI nedvomno zaznamovala prihodnost postopkov in drugih dejavnosti javne uprave.
The Effects of Different Solubilizing Agents on the Transport and Pharmacokinetic Profiles of Indocmethacin: In vitro and in vivo Approach
Authors: Zainuddin Siti Aisyah , Ab Hamid Abdul Latip , Rafandi Aqila Iman , Mohamad Mashani , Abdul Hamid Khuriah , Khalid Syed Haroon
Published: November 2024

The poor water solubility of new chemical entities (NCEs) discovered in pharmaceutical screening programs hampers their development and limits effective treatment delivery. Solubilizing agents offer a direct approach to increase solubility and oral bioavailability. This study employed indomethacin as a model drug from Biopharmaceutical Classification System (BCS) class II. Solubilizing agents, including propylene glycol, Transcutol P, Labrasol, PEG 400, and Tween 80, were separately added at 10% (v/v) to 1 mg/5 mL for in vitro diffusion chamber and 10 mg/kg body weight for in vivo oral absorption studies of indomethacin. Drug concentrations were analysed using reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). In vitro, 10% (v/v) labrasol, PEG 400, and Tween 80 significantly (p<0.01) increased indomethacin permeability across the rat intestinal layer. However, Transcutol P and PG (propylene glycol 10%v/v) showed no discernible impact on in vitro permeability. In the in vivo oral absorption study, PG (propylene glycol 10%v/v) and Transcutol P significantly (p<0.05) enhanced indomethacin absorption, while 10% (v/v) labrasol, PEG 400, and Tween 80 did not show significant effects. No in vitro-in vivo correlation (IVIVC) was observed, likely due to the physicochemical properties of indomethacin and the complex physiological environment in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Further investigations are necessary to comprehensively understand the factors affecting indomethacin solubility and absorption, considering both the drug’s properties and the GI tract’s physiological conditions.
Development of Food Commodity Price Forecasting Model as an Early Warning System with a Multivariate Time Series Clustering
Authors: Sumertajaya I Made , Rohaeti Embay , Fitrianto Anwar , Ponco Adi Windhiarso
Published: November 2024

Fluctuations in food commodity prices have a significant impact on a country’s food security, purchasing power, and economic growth. Therefore, good governance is needed to maintain price stability, one of which is by developing a forecasting model as an early warning system. This study aims to develop a food commodity price forecasting model using Multivariate Time Series Clustering (MTSClust) and Vector Autoregressive Imputation Method with Moving Average (VAR-IMMA) approaches for food commodities in the Indonesian region. The data used in this study consisted of daily prices of 13 commodities from 103 districts/cities in Indonesia. Data analysis was conducted in several stages, namely VAR modeling, K-means Euclidean clustering, profiling, and forecasting. The results show that 103 sample districts/cities across Indonesia can be grouped into four types of regions based on food price movement patterns. There are homogeneous islands such as Maluku where the sample district/city are in the same cluster, but there are also heterogeneous islands such as Kalimantan and Papua with their four clusters. The forecasting evaluation results show good accuracy with Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) scores below IDR 1000.00 in most cases, which is equivalent to Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) scores below 10%. However, two commodities, namely cayenne pepper and red chili, need more attention due to relatively high RMSE and MAPE scores, although not exceeding 30% MAPE in most cases. These results show that the MTSClust and VAR-IMMA approaches are accurate in forecasting food commodity prices, although further research is needed for the two chili commodities.
Modelling Malaysia Air Quality Data using Bayesian Structural Time Series Models
Authors: Mohammed Aeshah , Abu Bakar Mohd Aftar , M. Mansor Mahayaudin , Mohd Ariff Noratiqah
Published: November 2024

Air pollution poses a significant threat to human health and the environment, especially in developing nations facing rapid industrialization, urbanization, and increased vehicle emissions. As cities and factories continue to grow, the air quality problem worsens, making it crucial to enhance the monitoring, testing, and forecasting of air quality. In this context, this study focuses on building air quality models using Bayesian Structural Time Series (BSTS) models to predict air quality levels in Malaysia. The BSTS model integrates three main techniques: The structural model, which employs the Kalman filter approach to model trend and seasonality components; spike and slab regression for variable selection; and Bayesian model averaging to estimate the best-performing prediction model while accounting for uncertainty. The study utilized air quality time-series data spanning two years, from June 2017 to July 2019, obtained from the Malaysian Department of Environment (DOE). The primary objective of this study was to forecast air quality and assess the effectiveness of the Bayesian structural time series analysis on air quality time-series data. The results indicated that the BSTS technique is capable of modeling air quality time-series data with high accuracy, effectively capturing seasonal and trend components. The seasonal component showed a repetition of weekly concentration patterns, while the local linear trend component showed a steady decline in PM10 and PM2.5 concentration levels in most stations. Regression analysis demonstrated that humidity and ambient temperature significantly affected air quality in most locations in Malaysia.
Automated design of the 3D models of the elements of the flow part of the stage of a screw-centrifugal pump
Authors: Staseev Aleksandr A. , Zharkovsky Alexander A.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: The paper presents the results of the development of a software package for automated design of 3D models of elements of the flowing part of a screw-centrifugal pump. The development of such software makes the design process possible within a single interface, reducing labor costs for the operation of disparate software packages. An alternative method of automating the creation of 3D models without the use of parameterized sketches is proposed.
AIM: Development of a software system that is capable of performing the end-to-end design process, starting from the input of the technical specification and ending with the export of the generated 3D geometry to computer-aided engineering (CAE) systems.
METHODS: The design of the stage of a screw-centrifugal pump is based on the methods used in pump engineering. Writing the program code is subordinated to the principles of structural programming. The software is implemented using the Python programming language with inclusion of the legacy-code written in the FORTRAN. As an example of functioning of the software package, the stage of a screw centrifugal pump at a head of 62.5 m is designed.
RESULTS: Currently, the software package includes such modules as: calculation of parameters and formation of the 2D sketch and the 3D model of the screw, calculation of basic parameters of the impeller; design of the meridian cross-section and calculation of equal velocity flow; calculation of edge parameters; design of the vane system; calculation of losses in the impeller on the basis of calculation of 2-dimensional non-viscous flow, spatial boundary layer and low-energy trace in the impeller channels; automatic creation of the 3D model of the impeller; design of the spiral outlet; calculation of the prediction characteristics; generation of the 3D model of the stage using the application programming interface (API) of the Kompas-3D computer-aided design (CAD) system. The generated 3D geometry of the flow section was used to perform the hydrodynamic calculation.
CONCLUSION: The results of the performed hydrodynamic calculation have a small discrepancy with the results of the calculations performed with the developed software. Further development of the software system is planned in terms of automated integration of the 3D geometry into modern CAE-systems, which will help to optimize the obtained stages of screw-centrifugal pumps.
Different modifications of minimally invasive osteosynthesis in pilon fractures: comparative study results
Authors: Maiorov Boris A. , Belen’kiy Igor G. , Sergeev Gennadii D. , Gadoev Kamoliddin K. , Sergeeva Mariya A.
Published: November 2024

Background. Minimally invasive surgical techniques can reduce the degree of surgical injury during osteosynthesis in peri- and intraarticular pilon fractures. However, these techniques do not always achieve anatomical reduction of the articular component and stable fixation of all columns of the distal tibia.
Aim of the study — to test the hypothesis regarding the clinical advantages of multicolumn fixation for comminuted pilon fractures over traditional single-column fixation.
Methods. The study enrolled 55 patients with extra- and intraarticular fractures of the distal tibia and fibula, all of whom underwent minimally invasive osteosynthesis. Patients were divided into two groups based on the number of fixed columns. These groups were comparable in terms of gender and age. The first group consisted of 28 patients who underwent osteosynthesis with one anatomically precontoured plate. The second group consisted of 27 patients who underwent osteosynthesis with two or more plates placed on different tibial columns. The quality of bone fragment reduction was analyzed using control X-rays performed the day after the operation. Functional outcomes were evaluated according to the AOFAS scale at 6 and 12 months post-operation. The incidence of early and delayed complications of osteosynthesis was also determined.
Results. No statistically significant difference was found between the two study groups in terms of quality of reduction (p = 0.23). The median functional outcome score in the first group at 6 months was 63 points [IQR 50.00-73.00] and at 12 months was 74 points [IQR 65.00-83.25]. In the second group, the median scores were 75 points [IQR 67.50-81.00] and 85 points [IQR 71.00-94.50], respectively. Multicolumn fixation of the pilon fracture resulted in statistically significantly higher functional outcome scores at both follow-up periods: at 6 months (p = 0.015) and at 12 months (p = 0.028). The probability of complications in the first group was 4.4 times higher than in the second group: OR = 4.444 (95% CI 1.066-18.528).
Conclusion. Multicolumn fixation of complete periarticular and intraarticular pilon fractures leads to better functional results compared to single-column fixation. It also reduces the risk of complications due to increased stability of the fragment fixation and the resistance of the implant-bone system to physiological stress.
Prospects for cytokine therapy in acute respiratory viral infections, including COVID-19
Authors: Simbirtsev Andrey S.
Published: November 2024

Severe respiratory viral infections are accompanied by an unbalanced immune response due to suppression of endogenous interferon (IFN) synthesis, which leads to hyperproduction of proinflammatory cytokines. This results in inadequate inflammation in the lungs, accompanied by acute respiratory distress syndrome, respiratory failure, and dysfunction of other organs. Cytokine imbalance that underlies the immunopathogenesis of severe acute respiratory viral infections including COVID-19 offers the potential for two principal approaches to cytokine therapy, which are determined by the stage of the infectious process and the severity of clinical symptoms. Cytokine therapy with intranasal recombinant type I and III IFN represent a viable therapeutic strategy in prevention of virus infection or at early stages of the disease, particularly in endogenous IFN deficit at the onset. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, intranasal products based on recombinant IFNα2b demonstrated high antiviral activity and good tolerability, and are included in the national guidelines for control of coronavirus infection in Russia and other countries. This therapeutic approach aims at normalizing endogenous IFN expression, which may be inhibited by certain respiratory viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2. In cases of cytokine storm and severe respiratory infections, an anticytokine therapy may effectively inhibit the overproduction of proinflammatory cytokines. Both cytokine immunotherapies are based on using either synthetic analogs of endogenous cytokines or monoclonal antibodies that inhibit the cytokine up-regulation above physiological levels.
Dominant bacterial genera of microbiota of chernozems of the forest-steppe zone
Authors: Zheng Wentao , Boyarshin Konstantin S. , Adamova Valeria V. , Nikitinskaya Ekaterina V. , Obukhova Olga Yu. , Kolkova Marina V. , Bespalova Olga S. , Klyueva Violetta V. , Degtyareva Kristina A. , Nesteruk Lyubov V. , Kurkina Yulia N. , Makanina Olesya A. , Ivanova Elena S. , Batlutskaya Irina V.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: Bacterial community plays a significant role in maintaining homeostasis and fertility of chernozems. Analysis of its components allows us to identify the dominant taxonomic groups, the ecological preferences of the species that form their basis, and helps to focus efforts on creating biological products and tests aimed at monitoring and enhancing fertility.
AIM: The aim of this study is to identify bacterial genera that dominate the microbiota of Chernozems in the forest-steppe zone of the European part of Russia, and to trace the influence of land use, summer season phase, agrochemical parameters and interactions with each other on their abundance.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the Belgorod region, 10 samples of arable and non-arable chernozems were taken twice during the summer. Based on metabarcoding data, the percentages of genera in bacterial communities were obtained. An agrochemical analysis was carried out with the calculation of correlation coefficients between the chemical indicators of chernozems and the proportions of bacterial genera. An analysis of correlations between bacterial genera was carried ut as well.
RESULTS: Dominant genera include Sphingomonas, Rubrobacter, Gemmatimonas, Bradyrhizobium, Haliangium and others. Under soil conditions, the proportion of representatives of the genera Sphingomonas and Gemmatimonas shows a strong positive correlation with nitrate nitrogen concentration, and the proportion of the genus Bradyrhizobium shows a strong negative correlation with phosphorus concentration. The largest number of positive correlation interactions with other genera was found for Nocardioides, Mycobacterium, Streptomyces, and Solirubrobacter.
CONCLUSIONS: The stability of the set of bacterial genera dominant in the chernozems of the forest-steppe zone of Russia in different environmental conditions (plowed and unplowed areas), as well as over time (June and August) was shown. A number of representatives belonging to the genera Sphingomonas, Gemmatimonas, Bradyrhizobium and others are strongly dependent on the concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer components. Representatives of actinomycetes and mycobacteria are closely involved in positive correlation interactions among bacterial genera.
Genetic variability of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) plus trees in the Middle and Upper Volga Region based on polymorphism of nSSR markers
Authors: Sheykina Olga V.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: One of the key issues in the area of forest selection is how to mitigate the risks evolving changes in the genetic structure and loss of diversity of future artificial forests due to the use of plus trees for seed production. Therefore, there should be studies aiming at assessing the genetic variability of plus trees selected for phenotypic traits in natural populations.
AIM: The aim of this study is to examine of variability and differentiation of Scots pine plus trees selected for phenotypic traits from the Chuvash Republic, the Republic of Tatarstan and the Republic of Mari El with the use of nSSR markers.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: Using five microsatellite loci, the authors assessed 207 plus trees of Scots pine from the Chuvash Republic, the Republic of Tatarstan and the Republic of Mari El.
RESULTS: The number of alleles differed from 33 to 37 for various groups of plus trees. Thus, plus trees from the Mar El Republic are specified by a reduced level of diversity (Na = 6.6; Ne = 3.5; Ho = 0.361; He= 0.687) as compared to trees from the Chuvash Republic (Na = 7.4; Ne = 4.8; Ho = 0.503; He= 0.778) and the Republic of Tatarstan (Na = 6.8; Ne = 4.4; Ho = 0.570; He = 0.739). The groups of plus trees are slightly differentiated, and the genetic subdivision index equaled to 0.023. The major part of the nSSR marker polymorphism is within the groups of plus trees (98.0 %).
CONCLUSIONS: The plus trees under study differ in the level of genetic variability. Relatively low allelic diversity and a large deficit of heterozygote are typical for all groups. Thus, we may conclude that the plus trees are compatible with natural populations of Scots pine grown in the Middle and Upper Volga Region in terms of distribution of genetic variability and differentiation.
Analysis of cytogenetic disorders in residents of an industrial region in connection with work at coal-fired thermal power plants
Authors: Marushchak Anna V. , Minin Artyom V.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: In the air of an industrial environment associated with the processing and combustion of coal contains a huge amount of coal dust, heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which have a negative impact on genetic stability. In this regard, the purpose of the study is to study the genotoxic effects in workers of coal thermal power plants.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The paper presents a cytogenetic analysis of genomic damage in 455 coal-fired thermal power plant workers compared with 533 control donors from Kemerovo using a micronucleus test. The formation of genomic abnormalities in coal-fired thermal power plant workers was assessed in relation to sex, age, smoking status, presence of chronic diseases, length of service, and working shops.
RESULTS: A significant increase in the frequency of occurrence of lymphocytes with micronuclei, nucleoplasmic bridges, nuclear buds, as well as cells at the stage of apoptosis in workers of coal-fired thermal power plants compared to the control group was established. An increase in the frequency of occurrence of cells with cytogenetic disorders was revealed in women working in coal production and workers over 51 years of age. Work experience and professional specialization had a significant impact on the formation of genomic disorders.
CONCLUSIONS: The obtained results indicate a significant contribution of environmental factors to the development of geno- and cytotoxic effects in workers of coal-fired thermal power plants.
The role of water-transporting aquaporins of the PIP and TIP subfamilies in plant development and adaptation to stress factors
Authors: Danelia Georgy V. , Emelyanov Vladislav V. , Shishova Maria F.
Published: November 2024

The comparative analyses of current knowledge of the diversity of aquaporins in angiosperms are presented in the review. Their structure, coding, and diversity of regulatory pathways are considered. Special attention is paid to aquaporins responsible for water transport. Data on the participation of various aquaporins in plant adaptation to abiotic factors causing hydration and dehydration are presented. The participation of aquaporins in the processes of plant growth and development from germination to seed formation are considered in sufficient detail. The data presented in the review indicate the main directions of further research important for elucidation of the mechanisms involved in regulation of aquaporins, mainly responsive for transmembrane water transport. The special significance of the studies at the omics level — transcriptomic and proteomic is noted. They will allow identifying the specificity of aquaporin isoforms involved in the development of the adaptive response or at different stages of plant development.
Karakteristik kimia, mikrob dan daya terima kukis sagu yang diperkaya Spirulina dan rumput laut
Authors: Pari Rizfi Faris , Setyaningsih Iriani , Ramadhan Wahyu , Tarman Kustiariyah , Hardiningtyas Safrina Dyah , Nurhayati Tati , Desniar Desniar , Uju Uju , Aini Khusnul
Published: November 2024

Kukis merupakan makanan ringan bergluten yang digemari banyak kalangan, dengan kandungan serat dan protein yang rendah. Peningkatan kualitas kukis dengan mengganti terigu menjadi tepung sagu, penambahan Spirulina dan rumput laut merah Eucheuma cottonii dapat mengurangi kadar gluten, meningkatkan kandungan protein dan serat, serta meningkatkan daya tarik. Tujuan penelitian ini menentukan pengaruh penambahan E. cottonii terhadap mutu kukis sagu Spirulina berdasarkan karakteristik kimia, mikrob dan daya terima. Kukis dibuat dengan mencampurkan bahan menggunakan metode creaming (margarin dan gula), whisking (penambahan kuning telur) dan all in (penambahan tepung sagu, Spirulina dan rumput laut). Kukis diuji proksimat, total plate count (TPC), aktivitas air (aw), senyawa bioaktif, angka kecukupan gizi (AKG) dan uji hedonik. Hasil analisis kimia kukis menunjukkan kandungan air dan serat kasar meningkat sebesar 4,32% dan 0,56%. Hasil TPC dalam batas aman berdasarkan SNI (<105). Kukis tergolong makanan kering dengan aw 0,5 dan mengandung senyawa aktif flavonoid, steroid dan saponin. Hasil perhitungan AKG, konsumsi sebanyak 15 g kukis menghasilkan energi total 76 kkal. Hasil penilaian hedonik menunjukkan kukis dengan penambahan E. cottonii dan Spirulina dapat diterima. Secara keseluruhan, penambahan rumput laut dan Spirulina pada kukis meningkatkan gizi dan dapat diterima oleh panelis.
Karakteristik fish cake dari surimi lele dumbo (Clarias gariepinus) dengan bahan pengikat yang berbeda
Authors: Resi Aji Falentina Margareta , Sahubawa Latif
Published: November 2024

Lele dumbo adalah jenis ikan air tawar yang tumbuh cepat, pangsa pasar cukup besar, tetapi memiliki nilai ekonomi rendah. Nilai ekonomi lele dumbo dapat ditingkatkan melalui pengolahan surimi sebagai bahan baku fish cake. Tepung maizena dan tepung kentang dapat digunakan sebagai bahan pengikat pada pembuatan fish cake. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah menentukan formulasi campuran tepung maizena dan tepung kentang terbaik pada pengolahan fish cake dari surimi ikan lele dumbo berdasarkan penilaian hedonik, mikroba, dan nilai kalori. Surimi ikan lele dumbo dihasilkan dengan menambahkan tepung Na-alginat 0,4% dan CaCl2 0,5%. Perlakuan pada penelitian ini adalah rasio tepung maizena dan tepung kentang terhadap jumlah surimi yang digunakan, yaitu P0 (10%:0%); P1 (7,5%:2,5%); P2 (5%:5%); P3 (2,5%:7,5%); P4 (0%:10%). Parameter yang dianalisis meliputi kekuatan gel surimi, komposisi kimia, hedonik, perhitungan kalori, dan cemaran mikroba fish cake selama penyimpanan. Hasil karakterisasi surimi memiliki kekuatan gel (1.042,8 g/cm2); kadar air (55,48%); lemak (4,74%); abu (0,6%); dan protein (15,05%). Formulasi tepung maizena dan tepung kentang yang berbeda berpengaruh signifikan terhadap komposisi gizi fish cake, dengan rerata kadar air (43,84±0,2%), lemak (10,32±0,57%), abu (1,83±0,41%), dan protein (11,31±0,12%). Nilai kalori produk fish cake, yaitu 45 kcal dari 5 g lemak, 25 kcal dari 6 g protein dan 80 kcal dari 20 g karbohidrat. Hasil uji TPC dan TVB-N fish cake, yaitu 1,0x105 cfu/g dan 10,94 mg/100 g. Perlakuan P1 menghasilkan fish cake yang paling disukai panelis, dengan total nilai kalori sebesar 150 kcal per takaran saji (2 pcs), serta nilai TPC dan TVB-N yang masih pada batas aman hingga penyimpanan hari ke-10 pada suhu -18℃.
Pengaruh pencampuran minyak ikan nila, stearin sawit, dan minyak biji karet terhadap karakteristik fisikokimia biskuit
Authors: Sumartini Sumartini , Hasibuan Nirmala Efri , Pamaharyani Luchiandini Ika , Saputra Eko Novi , Suryono Muhamad , Azka Aulia , Ratrinia Putri Wening , Basri Basri
Published: November 2024

Biskuit dibuat dari campuran bahan dan lemak padat (shortening). Kualitas biskuit dipengaruhi oleh perbedaan jenis lemak yang digunakan. Limbah biji karet, tulang, kepala, sisik, kulit, dan isi perut ikan merupakan limbah perkebunan dan perikanan yang dapat dimanfaatkan menjadi lemak sebagai bahan baku shortening. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menentukan rasio terbaik dari lemak padat stearin sawit, minyak ikan dan minyak biji karet yang di netralisasi serta dihilangkan baunya dengan rasio padatan terhadap sifat fisik dan tekstur adonan. Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) digunakan dengan 5 perlakuan (palm stearin/ minyak biji karet/ minyak ikan), yaitu rasio 1 (50:30:20), rasio 2 (60:35:5), rasio 3 (70:15 :15), rasio 4 (80:10:10), dan rasio 5 (90:5:5). Parameter uji meliputi diameter, hardness, ketebalan, tekstur, warna, kadar air, protein, lemak, kalori dan sensori. Analisis data menggunakan SPSS Versi 25 dengan ANOVA 95%. Hasil yang diperoleh lightness biskuit 74,57-78,55; ketebalan 0,54-0,94 mm; diameter 90,38-110,16 mm; hardness 2769,36-3648,53g; kadar lemak 18,61-20,64%; protein 10,38-10,88% dan nilai kalori 623,680-625,367 kcal. Hasil pengujian sensori tertinggi pada rasio 4 (80: 10: 10). Proporsi rasio shortening yang tepat memengaruhi karakteristik fisik dan kimia biskuit yang dihasilkan dengan rasio terbaik 80:10:10.
Phenotyping Asthma Exacerbations: One Step Further in the Management of Severe Asthma
Authors: Ojanguren I , Quirce S , Bobolea I , Pérez de Llano L , del Pozo V
Published: November 2024

Asthma, a prevalent chronic respiratory disease, manifests in heterogeneous phenotypes and endotypes, necessitating bespoke therapeutic approaches. Asthma exacerbations are characterized by worsening of symptoms and decline in lung function and present substantial challenges despite advances in understanding and treatment. Viral respiratory infections, notably those caused by rhinovirus, serve as primary triggers, with allergic sensitization and environmental exposures increasing susceptibility. Deficient antiviral responses in asthmatic airway epithelial cells, particularly impaired interferon production, perpetuate inflammation and hyperresponsiveness, contributing to exacerbations. Additionally, genetic polymorphisms influence host responses and susceptibility.
Recent studies underscore the association between specific inflammatory profiles, particularly eosinophil-mediated inflammation, and the frequency of exacerbations. Biologic therapies targeting inflammatory pathways show promise in reducing the frequency of exacerbations, thus underscoring the importance of understanding inflammatory phenotypes when selecting treatment. Notably, T2 inhibitors may modulate immune responses, potentially mitigating viral exacerbations.
Characterizing exacerbations is crucial for optimizing therapeutic strategies. Evidence suggests a dissociation between baseline inflammatory profiles and exacerbation phenotypes, highlighting the need for individualized management. Phenotyping exacerbations using sputum analysis helps to identify predominant inflammatory patterns and thus inform treatment decisions. The varied responses to biologic therapies further emphasize the importance of phenotyping exacerbations in refining treatment algorithms.
In conclusion, phenotyping asthma exacerbations provides valuable insights into underlying inflammatory mechanisms and enables personalized therapy. Understanding the complex interplay between viral triggers, inflammatory pathways, and responses to treatment is essential if we are to effectively manage severe asthma and reduce the burden of exacerbations. Further research into the mechanistic actions of biologic therapies in mitigating viral exacerbations is warranted to optimize asthma management strategies.