bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Surcharge Load on the Adjacent Pile Foundation in Coastal Floodplain
Authors: Zhang Hao , Sun Kai
Published: October 2024

In this paper, in order to investigate the behavior of existing piles caused by the horizontal and compression deformation of soft substratum due to backfill surcharge on coastal floodplain, three-dimensional finite element models of piles adjacent to surcharge load were established. The deformation and migration law of soft soil was analyzed. The behavior of single pile and double row pile adjacent to surcharge load were studied, in which the influence of surcharge load location, surcharge pressure, pile stiffness, and pile top constraint conditions were considered. The results show that as the position of surcharge load is closer and the surcharge pressure increases, the response (e.g. deformation and bending moment) is more obvious. With the increase of pile stiffness, the range of passive load is increased. The deformation behavior of pile body under different constraints of pile cap is significantly different. The effect of secondary bending moment caused by pile axial force is obvious and cannot be ignored. If there is a thick soft substratum, it is beneficial to improve the behavior of adjacent piles by using cement mixing pile reinforcement.
Problems and Countermeasures of Double Row Pile Support Structure of Deep Foundation Pit in Geotechnical Engineering
Authors: Sun Yaqi
Published: October 2024

With the development of geotechnical engineering, the double row pile support technology of deep foundation pit in geotechnical engineering has also been improved. However, at present, there are still problems, which affects the quality and safety of the whole geotechnical engineering, and requires measures to deal with them. This paper first describes the characteristics of double row pile support of deep foundation pit in geotechnical engineering, then analyzes the problems laying in it, and finally puts forward some countermeasures.
Main Problems Existing in the Process of Civil Engineering Construction and Optimization Suggestions
Authors: Wang Huiyi
Published: October 2024

Relevant data show that in recent years, the number and scale of civil engineering projects in China have gradually increased, which has effectively promoted the improvement and optimization of the level of urbanization. However, in the construction process of civil engineering projects, due to the influence of many factors, the quality of related projects often has certain problems that need to be improved. Based on this, the researchers pointed out that in order to further realize the improvement and optimization of the comprehensive quality of civil engineering projects in China, relevant units should actively conduct a reasonable analysis and exploration of the engineering construction process, so as to we can summarize and summarize the construction quality problems according to the actual situation, and formulate corresponding optimization suggestions, and lay a solid foundation and guarantee for the optimization of China's civil engineering construction technology level. In this study, the researchers combined a large amount of data to analyze the main problems existing in the construction of civil engineering in China, and put forward corresponding optimization suggestions, and aiming to further improve the comprehensive quality of civil engineering projects in China.
Use of case study technologies based on feature films in teaching business English at a university
Authors: Konoplyuk Natalya V.
Published: October 2024

In the modern world, proficiency in foreign languages has become an important factor for successful employment and career growth. However, lack of motivation and sufficient speech practice can become an obstacle on the way to the formation of the necessary speech skills. In this regard, as a solution to this problem, the use of case study technology is proposed. The author of the study has developed a series of cases based on feature films in English, aimed at students of levels B1 and B2. The aim of the work was to create methodological recommendations for designing cases based on films and their implementation in English classes. The author examines the stages of case design, starting from formulating the problem and choosing a film to organizing classes using the developed cases. The paper emphasizes that the use of feature films as a basis for case studies activates the listening skills in a foreign language, enriches students’ vocabulary and stimulates their active participation in the discussion of the issue. The author comes to the conclusion that film-based cases contribute to the activation of students’ interaction in a foreign language, develop their communicative skills and teamwork skills, as well as formation of professional skills. In addition, the use of those cases facilitate the development of such soft skills as information analysis, critical thinking, and activity planning. Thus, the study demonstrates that the educational approach based on the use of feature films contributes to more effective teaching of English, improves the quality of the learning process, and increases students’ motivation in general.
Practical application of heterosis on yield evidence and fruits biochemical composition for tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in open ground
Authors: Puhachova I. G. , Frantsuzionak A. V. , Bayeva I. Е. , Babak O. G. , Kilchevsky A. V.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. The research is devoted to studying the peculiarities of the high-parent heterosis manifestation which connected with yield traits and the biochemical composition of tomato fruits.Materials and Methods. The work was carried out in 2021–2023 in open field conditions on the experimental plot of the Belarusian State Agricultural Academy (Mogilev region, Belarus). The objects of research were 30 F1 hybrids and 11 parental forms with different levels of economically valuable traits and with the specific set of genes for pathogen resistance and lycopene accumulation. The aim of the research was to create high-yield heterotic F1 tomato hybrids, adapted to open field conditions in Belarus, with a valuable biochemical composition of fruits.Results. The best hybrid combinations showed an early yield of 0.90–2.49 kg/m2, a marketable yield of 7.50–11.40 kg/m2, and a total yield of 8.22–13.12 kg/m2. High heterosis effect was established for early (88.9–291.0%), marketable (36.0–111.2%), and total (28.6–97.8%) yield in some hybrids. Significant differences in the accumulation of dry matter, carotene, and soluble carbohydrates were ascertained between the hybrids. Hybrid combinations with the highest value of true heterosis on accumulation of dry matter (18.3–21.6%), carotene (20.2–22.9%), and soluble carbohydrates (15.7–38.9%) were identified. Inheritance of early, marketable and total yield, dry matter content, carotene and soluble carbohydrates predominantly took place according to the positive overdominance, fruit weight – according to the intermediate inheritance, vitamin C content – according to the negative overdominance. Hybrids Brusnichny F1, Mansiata F1, Rada F1 were transferred to the State Inspection for Testing and Protection of Plant Varieties of the Republic of Belarus and successfully passed the testing stage in 2023.
Accelerated reproduction of the parental lines of white cabbage using rosette plants (steckling) and artificial climate chambers
Authors: Bondareva L. L. , Mineykina A. I.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. The technology of producing cabbage seeds with the traditional method takes almost 2 years. Its high labor intensity caused the need to search for cheaper methods of selection and seed production. One of the ways to speed up the stages of the selection process is the use of artificial climate chambers. The aim of research is to obtain seeds of promising inbred lines of late maturing white cabbage and hybrid combinations with their participation using rosette plants (steckling) in artificial climate chambers. Materials and Methods. The material was inbred pure lines of 5-6 generations of inbreeding, obtained from promising hybrid combinations of domestic and foreign breeding. The research was conducted in 2023-2024. Sowing in Plantek 64 cassettes was carried out on July 10, then the seedlings were transplanted into vegetative vessels with an optimal volume of 5-6 liters and installed in the open ground for the growth of a leaf outlet. In the phase 10-13 of real leaves, the plugs were placed in an artificial climate chamber. During the growth and development period, biometric and phenological observations were carried out, and an analysis of seed setting was carried out during the hybridization of inbred lines.Results. As a result of research in the study of hybrid seed production under artificial climate chamber conditions, high rates of seed setting in buds under cross-pollination of rosette plants of white cabbage were revealed. Genotypes with high seed set rate under geitenogamous bud pollination were also identified. The weight of 1000 seeds of the studied plants was within the range of 2.5-5.14 g. Genotypes 383-3, 384-2 and 384-7 were selected, which had the highest percentage of seeds in the fractional composition with size more than 2 mm 80.3%, 43.5% and 59.4%, respectively. When genotypes 384-2 and 384-7 were used in hybrid combinations as a maternal component, high quality indicators of the obtained seeds were revealed.Conclusion. For the studied genotypes of white cabbage, when grown in an artificial climate chamber, no significant effect on seed quality was found; the genotype had a greater effect on seed quality indicators.
Current state and open issues of priming onion seeds
Authors: Yanchenko A. V. , Bukharov A. F. , Fedosov A. Yu. , Ivanova M. I. , Menshikh A. M. , Belova S. V.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. In the context of climate change, onion cultivation has become a challenge and innovative solutions are needed to support breeders and seed producers as well as farmers, starting with critical issues of seed quality. Seed priming successfully improves seed viability, which leads to rapid and uniform germination and emergence of onion seedlings.Results. Priming onion seeds can improve viability, especially under unfavorable conditions such as low/high temperatures, reduced water availability and salinity. It is a simple, low-cost and low-risk intervention that can be a useful technology for farmers and have a positive impact on their livelihoods by increasing the rate of seed germination, increasing the rate of plant development, reducing harvest time and increasing yields. Although this method is common for radish, tomato, carrot and cabbage seeds, this method is less popular for onions. This review provides an up-to-date picture of the scientific and technological advances that have contributed to increasing seed germination and vigor in onion plants to date. For large-scale commercial use, optimal priming methods and conditions tailored to different varieties or seed lots will require further extensive experimental work. It cannot be denied that seed priming technology is characterized by ease of operation, low cost and high practical value in industrial and market contexts. It can be foreseen that this technology will have wider prospects in agricultural production and green building. In addition, seed priming can effectively restore or enhance seed viability and ensure successful retention of germplasm resources and subsequent development, especially for onion seeds that rapidly lose viability.
Biochemical composition of three Opuntia species O. humifusa, O. phaeacantha, O. engelmannii var. lidheimeri. Prospects of their utilization
Authors: Golubkina N. А. , Bagrikova N. A. , Lapchenko V. A. , Lapchenko H. V. , Naumenko T. S. , Levko G. D.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. Opuntia distinguished by high adaptability is widespread in many countries of the world. Tolerance to water deficiency and high biological activity provide prospects of its cultivation for food and pharmaceutical industry. In Russia Opuntia is grown in the Crimea, Caucasus, Donbass, Astrakhan region and even in the Central Russia. Evaluation of the Opuntia cultivation efficiency in the Crimea for various utilization supposes the importance of its biochemical characteristics which variability greatly depends on the place of habitat. Materials and Methods. Total antioxidant activity and titratable acidity were determined using titration methods, polyphenol content –using spectrophotometric method, monosaccharide and total sugar concentrations were assessed via reaction with ferricyanide, mucilage levels were determined gravimetrically.Results. Investigation of cladode, inflorescence and fruit biochemical parameters of three Opuntia species: O. humifusa, O. phaeacantha, O. engelmannii, – gathered at the Southern and South-Eastern part of the Crimean peninsular revealed wide variability of fruit mucilage (4.3-16.56% d.w.), sugar and total antioxidant activity. Polyphenol content decreased according to: inflorescence (18.4-21.0) > fruit (11.7-18) > cladodes (10.2-20.0). Fruit monosaccharide content reached (6.2-31) % while in cladodes these values were in the range of 8.1-16.0%. Total sugar content was equal to 32.6-95% in fruit and 15.5-29.7% in cladodes. Concentration of selenium as a natural antioxidant was higher in the cladodes (102-176 µg/kg d.w.) than in fruit (46.8-72 µg/kg d.w.). The highest levels of the total antioxidant activity and titratable acidity were registered in O. engelmannii while the highest sugar, mucilage and taste index were typical for O. humifusa. Nevertheless, O. humifusa was characterized by the lowest fruit mass (6.0-6.3 g) contrary to O. engelmannii (36-40 g). The results suppose prospects of fruit, cladode and inflorescence utilization in food industry, cosmetics and pharmacology with the preference to O. humifusa.
Food as a factor determining the physiological state of populations of the phytopagous pests of agricultural crops
Authors: Matsishina N. V. , Sobko O. A. , Ermak M. V.
Published: October 2024

Relevance. Trophic relationships along with competition and mutualism are the most basic and significant interactions in ecosystems. To develop, survive, and multiply, insects need to consume a certain amount of nutrients at a certain ratio. Food products are complex mixes of nutrients and non-nutritive substances (sometimes toxic ones): macronutrients (proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids), micronutrients (vitamins and minerals), and water. Some nutrients are essential; insects lack the ability to synthesize them in their bodies and must obtain them from their diet or through symbiosis with beneficial organisms. Identification mechanisms being well developed in the system “phytophagous insect – plant” allow insects to successfully spread, multiply, and feed on certain plant species. The complex of hydrolytic enzymes in the insect intestine is one of the main targets for plant defense responses because these enzymes determine the availability of structural compounds for phytophagous insects. For this reason, enzymes in the insect intestine play a key role in the adaptation of insects to the pest resistance of fodder plants. For instance, when proteinase inhibitors are synthesized in a fodder plant as the result of induced insect resistance the complex of enzymes in an insect intestine might change negating the effect of these inhibitors. The development of co-adaptations due to interactions among species in food chains depends on a complicated constellation of conflicting relationships between consumers and food objects. The mechanisms of this influence may be rooted in the allelochemical interactions in the system “phytophagous insect – plant recipient”. Allelopathic interactions are among the most complex interactions because they are constituted by direct and indirect effects. Plants when damaged by phytophagous insects activate defense responses, which incorporate several mechanisms, including an increase in the concentration of secondary metabolites, many of which are phenolic compounds.The aim of the work is to describe the mechanisms of relationships in the system “phytophage-plant”. Conclusion. Management of processes of intra-water divergence of insect-phytophages in agrobiocoenoses in order to prevent the emergence of races and populations of pests adapted to live on initially resistant to them plant forms is possible in compliance with the transition to a targeted selection of agricultural crops for resistance to a complex of pests.
Late Have I Loved Thee: Reintroducing the Journal of Health Ethics Twenty Years Later
Authors: DePergola Peter
Published: October 2024

The Editor-in-Chief provides an overview of Volume 20, Issue 1.
Ethical Requirements for Achieving Fairness in Radiology Machine Learning: An Intersectionality and Social Embeddedness Approach
Authors: Fessenko Dessislava
Published: October 2024

Radiodiagnostics by machine-learning (ML) systems is often perceived as objective and fair. It may, however, exhibit bias towards certain patient sub-groups. The typical reasons for this are the selection of disease features for ML systems to screen, that ML systems learn from human clinical judgements, which are often biased, and that fairness in ML is often inappropriately conceptualized as “equality”. ML systems with such parameters fail to accurately diagnose and address patients’ actual health needs and how they depend on patients’ social identities (i.e. intersectionality) and broader social conditions (i.e. embeddedness). This paper explores the ethical obligations to ensure fairness of ML systems precisely in light of patients’ intersectionality and the social embeddedness of their health. The paper proposes a set of interventions to tackle these issues. It recommended a paradigm shift in the development of ML systems that enables them to screen both endogenous disease causes and the health effects of patients’ relevant underlying (e.g. socioeconomic) circumstances. The paper proposes a framework of ethical requirements for instituting this shift and further ensuring fairness. The requirements center patients’ intersectionality and the social embeddedness of their health most notably through (i) integrating in ML systems adequate measurable medical indicators of the health impact of patients’ circumstances, (ii) ethically sourced, diverse, representative and correct patient data concerning relevant disease features and medical indicators, and (iii) iterative socially sensitive co-exploration and co-design of datasets and ML systems involving all relevant stakeholders.
Performance of ChatGPT-3.5 and ChatGPT-4 in the field of specialist medical knowledge on National Specialization Exam in neurosurgery
Authors: Laskowski Maciej , Ciekalski Marcin , Laskowski Marcin , Błaszczyk Bartłomiej , Setlak Marcin , Paździora Piotr , Rudnik Adam
Published: October 2024

WPROWADZENIE:

W ostatnim czasie obserwuje się wzrost liczby opublikowanych artykułów dotyczących sztucznej inteligencji w dziedzinie medycyny, szczególnie w obszarze neurochirurgii. Badania dotyczące integracji sztucznej inteligencji z praktyką neurochirurgiczną wskazują na postępującą zmianę w kierunku szerszego wykorzystania narzędzi wspomaganych sztuczną inteligencją w diagnostyce, analizie obrazu i podejmowaniu decyzji.

MATERIAŁ I METODY:

W badaniu oceniono efektywność ChatGPT-3.5 i ChatGPT-4 na Państwowym Egzaminie Specjalizacyjnym (PES) z neurochirurgii przeprowadzonym jesienią 2017 r., który w czasie przeprowadzania badania był najnowszym dostępnym na stronie Centrum Egzaminów Medycznych (CEM) egzaminem z oficjalnie udostępnionymi odpowiedziami. Próg zdawalności egzaminu specjalizacyjnego wynosi 56% poprawnych odpowiedzi. Egzamin składał się ze 116 pytań jednokrotnego wyboru, po wyeliminowaniu czterech z uwagi na ich niezgodność z aktualną wiedzą. Ze względu na poruszane zagadnienia pytania podzielono na dziesięć grup tematycznych. Na potrzeby gromadzenia danych obie wersje ChatGPT zostały poinformowane o zasadach egzaminu i poproszone o ocenę stopnia
pewności co do każdej odpowiedzi w skali od 1 (zdecydowanie niepewny) do 5 (zdecydowanie pewny). Wszystkie interakcje odbywały się w języku polskim i były rejestrowane.

WYNIKI:

ChatGPT-4 wyraźnie przewyższył ChatGPT-3.5 z różnicą wynoszącą 29,4% (p < 0,001). W przeciwieństwie do ChatGPT-3.5, ChatGPT-4 z sukcesem osiągnął próg zdawalności dla PES. W testach ChatGPT-3.5 i ChatGPT-4 odpowiedzi były takie same w 61 pytaniach (52,58%), w obu przypadkach były poprawne w 28 pytaniach (24,14%) i niepoprawne w 33 pytaniach (28,45%).

WNIOSKI:

ChatGPT-4 osiąga większą poprawność w udzielanych odpowiedziach w porównaniu z ChatGPT-3.5, prawdopodobnie dzięki zaawansowanym algorytmom i szerszemu zbiorowi danych treningowych, co podkreśla lepsze zrozumienie złożonych koncepcji neurochirurgicznych.
Effects of Salt Stress on Seed Germination and Embryo Growth of Oxytropis coerulea
Authors: Yuao Qin , Ruixin Ma , Zixuan Wang , Zhen Liu , Liuqian Chen , Qiqi Han , Zhongkuan Liu , Guixia Liu
Published: October 2024

Background: Oxytropis coerulea is considered to be an exceptional forage. The salinization of soil is a prevalent ecological issue worldwide. In order to study the effects of saline solution on seed germination and embryo growth of O. coerulea. Methods: An experiment was carried out using the culture dish filter paper method. Three salt stresses, namely, Na2CO3, NaCl and double salt were set, each of which was set to 0%, 0.3%, 0.6% and 0.9% concentration. Result: The results indicated that as the concentration of salt increased, there was a decrease in the germination rate, germination index and embryo growth. The activities of SOD, POD and CAT, as well as soluble protein content, initially increased and then decreased with increasing salt stress. The toxic effects of the three salts ranged from strong to weak as Na2CO3 greater than double salt greater than NaCl. The salt resistance indexes of 0.3% Na2CO3, NaCl and double salt were 53.87, 57.00 and 38.73, respectively and the salt resistance index of 0.6% NaCl was 50.21, indicating a high salt-tolerant degree. It showed certain resistance to 0.3% Na2CO3, 0.6% NaCl and 0.3% double salt. In short, the various soluble mechanisms of O. coerulea in different stages of salt stress and different salt stress levels have different reaction mechanisms, which reflect the salt stress of O. coerulea seeds. O. coerulea seeds can be planted in a suitable concentration of saline-alkali land, which can utilize the feed value and medicinal value of O. coerulea to improve economic benefits and utilize saline soil to improve the ecological environment.
Regularity of zinc, copper, and lead distribution in different size fractions of Rostov-on-Don urban soil aggregates
Authors: Tagiverdiev S. S. , Plakhov G. A. , Salnik N. V. , Bezuglova O. S. , Gorbov S. N.
Published: October 2024

: The article is devoted to the study of zinc, copper, and lead content in the soils of Rostov-on-Don. Soil samples were collected from full-profile sections located in different districts of the city and suburbs of Rostov-on-Don. The group of anthropogenically disturbed soils included Urbic Technosol urbanstratozems and replantozems, as well as urbanized chernozems Calcic Chernozems (Technic). Natural soils of recreational areas are represented by migration-segregation chernozems Calcic Chernozems (Pachic). The study was carried out using atomic absorption spectrometry and X-ray fluorescence analysis to determine metal content. Soil structure was determined by the Savvinov method (dry sieving) (<0.25; 1–2; 3–5; 5–7; >10 mm). Statistical analysis of the Wilcoxon criterion for related samples was performed to identify relationships. The main objective of the study was to assess the heavy metal content in different size fractions of aggregates and the ability of structural fractions to accumulate zinc, copper, and lead. Structural aggregates of different sizes differ in their ability to accumulate zinc, copper and lead. Zinc, including its mobile compounds, is predominantly accumulated in microaggregates. The content of gross copper and especially lead is confined to larger aggregates. At the same time, mobile copper compounds are concentrated in microaggregates and in fractions larger than 10 mm. Mobile lead compounds are distributed in fractions of different sizes quite uniformly in all studied soils.
Effect of biochars on the concentration of plant-available elements in the soil
Authors: Ponomarev K. O. , Dryagina A. A. , Filimonenko E. A. , Dimitryuk I. D.
Published: October 2024

To solve environmental problems and reduce economic costs, it is necessary to improve mineral fertilizer application systems by developing and introducing new technologies, including the use of biochars. Due to the lack of effective monitoring of soil changes, it is difficult to adjust fertilizer application rates. This determines the importance of information on the elemental composition of biochar ameliorants used to reduce the mobility of heavy metals in the soil. The use of biochar for remediation of contaminated soils is based on its ability to immobilize heavy metals and organic pollutants. In this work biochars were used, obtained by slow pyrolysis of organic materials of different types: pine sawdust, cattle manure, wheat straw, pine nut shells and brewer's grains. The effect of biochars (biochar application at a dose of 10 t ha−1) on the concentration of 13 elements (C, N, K, P, Mg, Ca, Fe, Mn, Pb, Ni, Cr, Cd, Co) in the soil was analyzed. The data collected after growing of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) on the sod-podzolic soils were analyzed. It has been established that the heavy metals concentrations in the studied soils reclaimed with biochars are significantly lower than the maximum allowable concentrations for soils (MAC). The content of lead (Pb) in soils treated with biochars is 9 or more times lower than the MAC level, and biochar, produced from manure, significantly reduces the concentration of this metal in the soil.
Microbiological indicators of early Holocene near-terrace soil in the valley of the Mzymta River on the Black Sea coast of the Caucasus
Authors: Rogozhina E. V. , Moiseeva E. V. , Khudokormov A. A. , Zakharikhina L. V.
Published: October 2024

By the example of studying the Early Holocene paleoalluvial soil (ancient man's site in Akhtsu Grotto, an overflow terrace of the middle reaches of the Mzymta River, Sochi Black Sea region), the efficiency of using a set of microbiological methods revealing the conditions of formation of the ancient paleoobject and the genesis of the geomorphology of the river valley was shown. The study of morphology and mesomorphology of the palaeo-soil allowed to assume its possible formation under the conditions significantly more hydromorphic in comparison with the modern ones. It is probable that earlier, at the beginning of the Holocene, this area was not a terrace, but a near-terrace, over-watered part of the river floodplain. Microbiological characteristics confirmed this assumption. The composition of the microbial community was identified from the isolated soil DNA of prokaryotic microorganisms (bacteria and archaea) by DNA metabarcoding. Groups and species of microorganisms-indicators reflecting the specificity of genesis of the studied soils were identified. Microbiological indicators of overwatered conditions were representatives of the phylum Planctomycetes of Phycisphaerae and Planctomycetia classes dominant in the microbiome (more than 1% of total DNA) and cyanobacteria of Chloroplast class of Streptophyta, Stramenopiles and Pseudanabaenale orders, as well as archaea (0.5% of total DNA) of Euryarchaeota phylum; Thermoplasmata class; Methanomassiliicoccaceae family, capable of methanogenesis. This species was not found in the microbial complex of the modern background soil. Indicator microorganisms identified as part of the prokaryotic community of palaeo-soils may potentially have useful applicable properties.
Compte-rendu de réunion : Mpox et discrimination en Afrique
Authors: Duclos Diane , Macgregor Hayley
Published: October 2024

La variole simienne (mpox) est une urgence de santé publique de portée internationale, et le nombre de cas de mpox a augmenté en Afrique. La question de la transmission du virus mpox par contact sexuel est un domaine d'intervention important pour lutter contre la propagation transfrontalière, élaborer la communication sur les risques et l'engagement communautaire, et encourager le recours aux soins et à la vaccination. Toutefois, plusieurs défis doivent être relevés avec précaution. D'une part, la question se pose de savoir comment mieux délimiter la charge de morbidité et préciser qui est le plus exposé. D'autre part, des questions importantes se posent quant à la manière d'encadrer le risque de maladie et d'éviter une discrimination accrue à l'égard des groupes stigmatisés, notamment ceux qui sont confrontés à un environnement juridique hostile au travail du sexe et aux relations entre personnes de même sexe. Dans le contexte de ces défis, le 13 septembre 2024, la Plateforme des sciences sociales dans l'action humanitaire (SSHAP) a organisé une réunion en ligne pour discuter : ● De questions relatives au mpox et à la discrimination dans les contextes africains ; ● De l’élaboration de réponses opérationnelles au mpox qui tiennent compte du contexte. Ce rapport résume les contributions des orateurs (voir la liste ci-dessous) et des participants.
Men Shall Be Lovers of Self, Money and Pleasure (II Timothy 3:2, 4): A Contemporary Discourse on the Apostle Paul's Prophecy of the End Times
Authors: Oluwatoba Rotimi Paul , Akeju Gabriel O. , Ampitan Afolabi J.
Published: October 2024

The present time in Nigeria and globally has been more perilous than ever, characterized with bizarre occurrences within the church and the larger society. This study explores the Pauline eschatological prediction of the perilous times when men will become lovers of self, lovers of money, and lovers of pleasure more than God (II Timothy 3:1, 2 & 5). Experiential and theological methodologies were adopted for generating qualitative primary and secondary data. The theological aspect of the research employed the tools of biblical exegesis, textual analysis, and literatures. The experiential aspect involved in-depth interviews (IDIs), observations, social media contents and Focused Group Discussions (FGDs) to access current events and personalized experiences of respondents who were purposively selected from within and outside the church. The results were discussed in the light of Christian theology, social ethics and Pastoral ministry. The Nigerian society is evidently witnessing the perilous times when love of self, money and pleasure will become the untoward defining features of human society and sadly too, of men that profess the faith. Transactional gospel, gimmickry, merchandize of holy things, and self-indulgent love of money are rife in the contemporary church. Ostentatious lifestyles, lack of support for the minister at the local church, and false messages on material blessings are what trap church ministers and laypersons in this end-time evil. The context and practice of ‘full time’ ministry when the local assembly is not able to support its minister is a challenge that predisposes some to ‘Simoniacal’ presentations, offering the gifts of God for monetary gain. Sound biblical teachings to protect the people of God and expose the mercenary spirit in sacred function is the local church most potent weaponry.
 
Long-Term Effects of 90Sr and 239+240Pu Contaminated on the Seafloor Sediment on the Transfer through Marine Food Web: Sensitivity to the Physical Property- and Sediment-Related Parameters
Authors: Kim Haejin , Kim Hanna , Kim Kyeong Ok
Published: October 2024

This study, as a follow-up to the 137Cs study of Kim et al. (2023), performs a set of sensitivity experiments on ocean physical properties and sediment-related parameters based on initial bottom contamination of 90Sr and 239+240Pu in the upper sediment layer. Both studies utilizes the Extended BURN model proposed by Bezhenar et al. (2016). The initial contamination levels were set to 3 and 0.4 Bq/kg, respectively, based on observations off the coast of Fukushima. The sensitivity experiments were divided into EXP-WOHAD, which examined the effects of the vertical diffusion coefficient and vertical sediment flux, and EXP-WHAD, which investigated the effects of ocean currents. The results of the EXP-WOHAD experiments showed that both radionuclides are more sensitive to sediment fluxes than to vertical diffusion coefficients. For both 90Sr and 239+240Pu, transport was dominated by transport to the intermediate sediment layer rather than to seawater. Specifically, for 239+240Pu, transport to seawater was insignificant due to its strong sorption properties in sediments. In terms of bioaccumulation, 90Sr accumulated most in fish and invertebrates, while 239+240Pu accumulated most in invertebrates, followed by zooplankton. Notably, 239+240Pu showed high bioaccumulation despite its low initial sediment contamination. The changes in radioactivity concentrations in the EXP-WHAD experiments were similar to those in the EXP-WOHAD experiments, and the bioaccumulation trends in biota were also comparable. This study confirms that the accumulation of radionuclides in seawater, intermediate sediments, and biota is sensitive to the marine physical environment and varies by nuclide. When the sediment flux increased by a factor of 100, the remaining radioactivity levels of 90Sr and 239+240Pu in biota after 100 years showed a significant reduction, decreasing by more than 900 and 30,000 times, respectively; it highlighting the importance of parameterization according to the physical environment of the area of interest.
Development of Ocean Healing VR Content Using Underwater Video Technology
Authors: Park Jin Hyeok , Choi Yun Seo , Lim Hak Soo
Published: October 2024

Recent advancements in filming equipment and content playback devices have significantly accelerated the development of VR video content. In particular, the growing need and demand for proactive health management among patients have spurred research into using VR video content for stress management. This paper aims to present the fundamentals for creating marine healing VR video content based on marine and underwater landscapes and for utilizing it as a stress management tool. To achieve this, we introduce an overview of the entire VR video content production process, from professional filming planning to the creation of VR video content, based on a survey conducted to improve existing VR video content.
Long-Term Changes in Deep Ocean Currents between Ulleung Island and Dok Island in the East Sea from 1996 to 2023
Authors: Han MyeongHee , Lim Hak-Soo
Published: October 2024

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of long-term deep ocean currents between Ulleung Island and Dok Island in the East Sea, based on data observed from the East Sea Current Measurement 1 (EC1) mooring station spanning from 1996 to 2023. The deep current at the Ulleung Interplain Gap, a trough situated between Ulleung Island and Dok Island, originates from the Japan Basin, a region where deep water formation occurs within the East Sea. The southward flow and velocity of this deep water are reflective of both regional and global climate dynamics. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for assessing environmental impact, both locally in Korea and globally. Significant trends and anomalies were identified in the zonal and meridional velocities within the 1,800 and 2,500-meter depth range. Data from 2012 to 2014 required corrections due to unit inconsistencies, which, after adjustment, revealed a deceleration of the southward bottom current, with speeds decreasing from 1.49 cm s-1 in November 1996 to 1.14 cm s-1 in April 2023. These changes may be linked to global climate variations and bottom water formation in the Japan Basin, influencing regional circulation patterns. The findings highlight the importance of sustained ocean monitoring and enhanced data management to ensure the accuracy and utility of long-term oceanographic datasets.
Links and Dynamics
Authors:   Novosibirsk State Agrarian University, Bardakov V. G. ,   Regional Scientific and Educational Mathematical Center of Tomsk State University, Kozlovskaya T. A. ,   National Research University – Higher School of Economics, Pochinka O. V.
Published: October 2024

We prove that, if $M$ is a link complement in $\mathbb{S}^{3}$, or a handlebody $H_{g}$ of genus $g\geqslant 0$, or a closed, connected, orientable 3-manifold, then the set of equivalence classes of tame links in $M$ is countable. As a corollary, we prove that there exists a countable number of equivalence classes of tame links in $\mathbb{S}^{2}\times\mathbb{S}^{1}$. It is proved that any essential link can be realized by a diffeomorphism of the class under consideration.
Parameters of leukopoiesis and thrombocytopenia in early urosepsis as potential predictors of a lethal outcome in hospitalized patients
Authors: Fedosenko S. V. , Rodionova Yu. O. , Ivanova A. I. , Arzhanik M. B. , Semenova O. L. , Nesterovich S. V. , Starovoitova E. A. , Zima A. P. , Vinokurova D. A. , Kamaltynova E. М. , Kalyuzhin V. V.
Published: October 2024

Aim. To perform a comparative analysis of leukopoiesis parameters and platelet count in peripheral blood with evaluation of their changes in the first 48 hours from urosepsis (US) verification in hospitalized patients depending on the outcome of the disease.

Materials and methods. A retrospective comparative study included 40 patients with US divided into a group of deceased (n = 10) and a group of recovered (n = 30) individuals. Along with a full clinical and paraclinical examination, which is a routine practice in the urology clinic in case of suspected (confirmed) sepsis, we performed a differentiated assessment of leukopoiesis and platelet count in peripheral blood at baseline (at the moment of US verification) and 48 hours after US verification. The assessment included determination of the immature granulocyte count, investigation of neutrophil granularity intensity (NEUT-GI) and neutrophil reactivity intensity (NEUT-RI), and measurement of the mean platelet volume (MPV).

Results. The baseline level of organ dysfunction graded by the SOFA (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment) score was significantly higher in deceased patients than in survivors (6 points vs. 3 points, respectively; p = 0.001). The group of the deceased was characterized by lower platelet and monocyte levels. The ROC analysis with the calculation of area under the curve (AUC) identified the following potential predictors of a lethal outcome in US: proportion of monocytes from the total leukocyte count at baseline ≤ 5.5% (AUC 0.732, p = 0.032), proportion of eosinophils from the total leukocyte count at baseline ≤ 0% (AUC 0.756, p = 0.011), absolute eosinophil count at baseline ≤ 0.01 × 109 / l (AUC 0.802, p = 0.009), absolute basophil count at baseline ≤ 0.03 × 109 / l (AUC 0.718, p = 0.028), NEUT-GI at baseline ≤ 153.2 scatter intensity (SI) units (AUC 0.754, p = 0.021), NEUT-RI at baseline ≤ 59.3 SI units (AUC 0.737, p = 0.024) and their increase after 48 hours by > 0.9 SI units (AUC 0.852, p = 0.001) or by > 1.34% (AUC 0.844, p = 0.003), platelet count at baseline ≤ 144 × 109 / l (AUC 0.762, p = 0.007) and after 48 hours ≤ 174 × 109 / l (AUC 0.769, p < 0.007).

Conclusion. The assessment of the platelet count and leukopoiesis parameters, including the ones characterizing neutrophil maturation (NEUT-RI, NEUT-GI), in the first 48 hours from US verification, can be effective predictors of a lethal outcome in patients with US.
Prognostic value of elevated transaminase levels as predictors of adverse outcomes in patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Hoang T. H. , Maiskov V. V. , Merai I. A. , Kobalava Zh. D.
Published: October 2024

Aim. To assess the prevalence of elevated serum liver transaminases (LTs), including alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (ALT), and their impact on in-hospital and long-term mortality in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Materials and methods. The prospective observational study included 416 consecutive AMI patients (median age 65 years, 40.9% female, 46.9% with ST elevation) without prior liver diseases, who underwent coronary angiography within 24 hours after hospitalization. AST and ALT levels were measured upon admission. LTs were considered as abnormal when their levels exceeded the local upper limit of normal. Clinical endpoints were all-cause in-hospital and 18-month mortality. Associations between clinical endpoints and various risk factors, including LT levels, were assessed by the multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results. Elevated LT levels were seen in 28.6% of AMI patients: an isolated increase in ALT was noted in 17.8% of patients, while an isolated increase in AST was registered in 25% of cases. In-hospital and 18-month mortality was 5.8 and 11.3%, respectively. Abnormal LT levels were associated with the presence of ST elevation (odds ratio (OR) 1.873, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.218–2.881, p = 0.004), lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure (OR 0.993, 95% CI 0.986–1.0, p = 0.04 and 0.979, 95% CI 0.964–0.994, p = 0.007, respectively), higher Killip class (OR 1.510, 95% CI 1.142–1.999, p = 0.004), and higher creatinine level (OR 1.010, 95% CI 1.003–1.016, p = 0.004). In the multivariate analysis, elevated LT levels were independently associated with in-hospital and 18-month mortality (OR 3.607, 95% CI 1.199–10.848, p = 0.022 and 2.182, 95% CI 1.011–4.708, p = 0.047, respectively).

Conclusion. Elevated LT levels were present in about a third of patients with AMI. They were associated with specific clinical, biological, and prognostic features, including in-hospital and long-term mortality in AMI patients.
Hormonal and metabolic disorders in connective tissue dysplasia
Authors: Bespalova I. D. , Chomaeva Z. S. , Teteneva A. V. , Koshchavtseva Yu. I. , Mitrichenko U. M. , Romanov D. S. , Nesterovich S. V. , Poljakova D. V. , Bukreeva E. B. , Sorokina T. V. , Kalyuzhina E. V. , Tetenev K. F. , Karzilov A. I. , Mesko P. E. , Boyarko V. V. , Chernogoryuk G. E. , Chernyavskaya G. M.
Published: October 2024

The lecture considers the results of research conducted by Russian and foreign scientists concerning the characteristics of all types of metabolic disorders and hormonal imbalance in undifferentiated connective tissue dysplasia (CTD). Understanding the role of hormonal and metabolic disorders in the development and course of diseases associated with CTD is of great importance for the development of pathogenetically grounded algorithms for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of emergency conditions.
On the pathogenesis of COVID-19: the role of transforming growth factor beta
Authors: Budnevsky A. V. , Ovsyannikov E. S. , Shishkina V. V. , Alekseeva N. G. , Perveeva I. M. , Kitoyan A. G. , Antakova L. N.
Published: October 2024

Proteins of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) family regulate numerous cellular processes that are essential in the pathogenesis of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), contributing to increased alveolar epithelial permeability, activation of fibroblasts, and extracellular matrix remodeling. TGF-β is involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory respiratory diseases during the development of COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 leads to complex immune responses that include the release of inflammatory cytokines, increased activity of mast cells, and the release of mast cell secretome, in particular profibrotic enzymes and cytokines, including TGF-β.

Tryptaseand chymase-positive mast cells play a major role in pulmonary fibrosis and embolism in COVID-19. Mast cell chymase is angiotensin-converting enzyme 2-independent due to extracellular formation of angiotensin II in the interstitium; it also activates TGF-β and other molecules, thereby playing a role in tissue remodeling. Mast cell β-tryptase increases the secretion of TGF-β1 by airway smooth muscle tissue and the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). TGF-β also induces the generation of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), which enhances the production of ROS in lung fibroblasts. TGF-β is crucial for induing the synthesis of extracellular matrix components by fibroblasts.

The review is devoted to the structure of TGF-β, the sources of its secretion and functions, the mechanism of its involvement in the pathogenesis of COVID-19, and the possibility of its use as a prognostic marker of COVID-19 severity.
Myopathy in glycogen storage disease type IV: case report of a family
Authors: Fedoseeva I. F. , Poponnikova T. V. , Pinevich O. S.
Published: October 2024

Aim. To study the clinical presentation and differential diagnosis of a rare hereditary disease glycogen storage disease type IV with progressive skeletal myopathy in a case report of a family.

Materials and methods. Two patients were followed up in the specialized neurology unit of the regional clinical hospital and in the outpatient setting.

Results. Long-term follow-up and examination in two clinically similar cases of myopathy in siblings allowed us to diagnose a hereditary metabolic disease. The congenital muscular form of glycogen storage disease type IV was manifested by myopathy and peripheral tetraparesis with the development of bone deformities. Difficulty in the diagnosis was due to isolated myopathy progression with no signs of liver involvement. The diagnosis was established with account of clinical manifestations, the progressive course of the disease, electromyography findings, and the results of molecular genetic testing for pathogenic mutations associated with hereditary neuromuscular diseases.

Conclusion. Glycogen storage disease type IV can clinically manifest itself by progressive myopathy without liver involvement and changes in blood biochemistry. The presented clinical cases in siblings are identical. Myopathy does not have clinical features that are significant for the differential diagnosis with other hereditary neuromuscular diseases. Genetic testing identified a mutation in the GBE1 gene and is considered as the main diagnostic criterion of the disease.