bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving retinal vascular endothelial cell tropism through rational rAAV capsid design
Authors: Periasamy Ramesh , Patel Dwani D. , Boye Sanford L. , Boye Shannon E. , Lipinski Daniel M.
Published: May 2023

Vascular endothelial cells (VEC) are essential for retinal homeostasis and their dysfunction underlies pathogenesis in diabetic retinopathy (DR) and exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Studies have shown that recombinant adeno-associated virus (rAAV) vectors are effective at delivering new genetic material to neural and glial cells within the retina, but targeting VECs remains challenging. To overcome this limitation, herein we developed rAAV capsid mutant vectors with improved tropism towards retinal VEC. rAAV2/2, 2/2[QuadYF-TV], and rAAV2/9 serotype vectors (n = 9, capsid mutants per serotype) expressing GFP were generated by inserting heptameric peptides (7AA) designed to increase endothelial targeting at positions 588 (2/2 and 2/2[QuadYF-TV] or 589 (2/9) of the virus protein (VP 1–3). The packaging and transduction efficiency of the vectors were assessed in HEK293T and bovine VECs using Fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry, leading to the identification of one mutant, termed EC5, that showed improved endothelial tropism when inserted into all three capsid serotypes. Intra-ocular and intravenous administration of EC5 mutants in C57Bl/6j mice demonstrated moderately improved transduction of the retinal vasculature, particularly surrounding the optic nerve head, and evidence of sinusoidal endothelial cell transduction in the liver. Most notably, intravenous administration of the rAAV2/2[QuadYF-TV] EC5 mutant led to a dramatic and unexpected increase in cardiac muscle transduction.
Improving old tricks as new: Young adults learn from repeating everyday activities
Authors: Leizerowitz Gil Meir , Gabai Ran , Plotnik Meir , Keren Ofer , Karni Avi
Published: May 2023

The notion that young healthy adults can substantially improve in activities that are part of their daily routine is often overlooked because it is assumed that such activities have come to be fully mastered. We followed, in young healthy adults, the effects of repeated executions of the Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG) task, a clinical test that assesses the ability to execute motor activities relevant to daily function—rising from a seated position, walking, turning and returning to a seated position. The participants (N = 15) performed 18 consecutive trials of the TUG in one session, and were retested on the following day and a week later. The participants were video recorded and wore inertial measurement units. Task execution times improved robustly; performance was well fitted by a power function, with large gains at the beginning of the session and nearing plateau in later trials, as one would expect in the learning of a novel task. Moreover, these gains were well retained overnight and a week later, with further gains accruing in the subsequent test-sessions. Significant intra-session and inter-session changes occurred in step kinematics as well; some aspects underwent inter-sessions recalibrations, but other aspects showed delayed inter-session changes, suggesting post-practice memory consolidation processes. Even common everyday tasks can be improved upon by practice; a small number of consecutive task repetitions can trigger lasting gains in young healthy individuals performing highly practiced routine tasks. This new learning in highly familiar tasks proceeded in a time-course characteristic of the acquisition of novel ‘how to’ (procedural) knowledge.
What is the impact of ongoing statin use on cognitive decline and dementia progression in older adults with mild-moderate Alzheimer disease?
Authors: Murphy Claire , Dyer Adam H. , Lawlor Brian , Kennelly Sean P. ,   for the NILVAD study group
Published: May 2023

Background

In addition to the clear cardiovascular benefit, there has been renewed interest in the potential of statins in the prevention of cognitive impairment and dementia in older adults. However, whether ongoing statin use can delay cognitive decline or dementia progression in those with established Alzheimer dementia, is unclear.

Methods

Using data from NILVAD, we analysed the association between ongoing statin use and cognitive decline (Alzheimer Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subsection [ADAS-Cog])/dementia progression (Clinical Dementia Rating Scale [CDR-Sb]/Disability Assessment for Dementia [DAD]) over 18 months in older adults with mild-moderate AD. Additionally, we assessed the association between ongoing statin use and adverse events in mild-moderate AD.

Results

Over one-third (34.9%) of 510 older adults with mild-moderate AD (aged: 72.9 years; 61.9% female) used a statin for the 18-month study duration. Statin use was not associated with the rate of cognitive decline (β: -0.67; 95% CI: -1.71, 0.36, p = 0.20) or dementia progression (β: -0.34; 95% CI -0.71, 0.02; p = 0.07 for CDR-Sb/ β: -2.00; -5.70, 1.70; p = 0.29 for DAD). Further, ongoing statin use was not associated with adverse events, serious adverse events, unscheduled GP visits, or unscheduled hospitalisation.

Conclusion

Ongoing statin use was not associated with cognitive decline or dementia progression in mild-moderate AD. Similarly, use was not associated with adverse events including abnormal liver function tests or falls. Whilst safe in those with AD, the current results suggest ongoing statin use does not delay cognitive decline or clinical progression in established AD.
Factors affecting implementation of tuberculosis contact investigation and tuberculosis preventive therapy among children in Sabah, East Malaysia: A qualitative study
Authors: Goroh Michelle May D. , van den Boogaard Christel H. A. , Lukman Khamisah Awang , Lowbridge Christopher , Juin Wong Ke , William Timothy , Jeffree Mohammad Saffree , Ralph Anna P.
Published: May 2023

Contact investigation and TB preventive treatment of children under five years of age who are close contacts of a TB case is a key component of TB prevention. However, the uptake of TB preventive treatment is low in many high-TB burden settings. This study explores factors affecting the implementation of TB contact investigation and preventive treatment among children in Malaysia’s city of Kota Kinabalu, Sabah State. This study was conducted in three primary health clinics between 2019 and 2020. We purposively sampled 34 parents and guardians of child contacts eligible for TB preventive treatment, and 25 healthcare providers involved in the management of child contacts. We conducted thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions to illicit factors affecting implementation and uptake of TB contact investigation and TB preventive therapy. Six main themes emerged from the analyses–four of these relating to contact investigation and two relating to TB preventive therapy. Factors affecting TB contact investigation were addressed under system related factors (external factors, stakeholder collaboration, healthcare workers’ and clients’ concerns), clinic related factors (perceived performance, clinic schedule, and space), healthcare worker related factors (cooperation, commitment, knowledge, misconception, counselling and communication) and patient and contact related factors (cooperation and commitment). Factors affecting TB preventive treatment delivery were addressed under guardian related factors (cooperation, commitment, knowledge and misconception) and treatment related factors (child-friendly form and adverse effects). To address gaps and barriers identified in our study, we recommend developing system capacity to maintain routine contact investigation and preventive treatment in the context of external program risks, providing training to healthcare workers to address misconceptions, safeguarding vulnerable clients against the risk of detention and deportation while accessing care, ensuring public and private services are provided regardless of migration status, and improving processes and resources for contact investigation and preventive treatment.
The association between HIV diagnosis disclosure and adherence to anti-retroviral therapy among adolescents living with HIV in Sub-Saharan Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Mengesha Melkamu Merid , Teshome Awugchew , Ajema Dessalegn , Tura Abera Kenay , Hallström Inger Kristensson , Jerene Degu
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Nine in ten of the world’s 1.74 million adolescents living with human immunodeficiency virus (ALHIV) live in Sub-Saharan Africa. Suboptimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and poor viral suppression are important problems among adolescents. To guide intervention efforts in this regard, this review presented pooled estimates on the prevalence of adherence and how it is affected by disclosure of HIV status among ALHIV in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

A comprehensive search in major databases (Excerpta Medica database (EMBASE), PubMed, Ovid/MEDLINE, HINARI, and Google Scholar) with additional hand searches for grey literature was conducted to locate observational epidemiologic studies published in English up to November 12, 2022 with the following inclusion criteria: primary studies that reported disclosure of HIV status as an exposure variable, had positive adherence to ART as an outcome, and conducted among adolescents and children. The COVIDENCE software was used for a title/abstract screening, full-text screening, the JBI quality assessment checklist, and data extraction. Random effects model was used to pool estimates. Furthermore, sensitivity analysis and subgroup analysis were also conducted by age groups and type of adherence measures used.

Results

This meta-analysis combines the effect estimates from 12 primary studies with 4422 participants. The prevalence of good adherence to ART was 73% (95% CI (confidence interval): 56 to 87; I2 = 98.63%, P = <0.001), and it was higher among adolescents who were aware of their HIV status, 77% (95% CI: 56 to 92; I2 = 98.34%, P = <0.001). Overall, knowledge of HIV status was associated with increased odds of adherence (odds ratio (OR) = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.21 to 2.94; I2 = 79.8%, P = <0.001). This was further supported in a subgroup analysis by age (seven studies, pooled OR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.06 to 3.37; I2 = 81.3%, P = <0.0001) and whether primary studies controlled for confounding factors (six studies provided adjusted estimates, pooled OR = 2.61, 95% CI: 1.22 to 5.57; I2 = 88.1%, P = <0.001) confirmed this further.

Conclusions

Our meta-analysis and systematic review revealed that knowledge of one’s HIV status was associated with adherence to ART, particularly among adolescents. The findings underscored the importance of encouraging disclosure in order to enhance adherence among adolescents.
Investigating insecticide susceptibility status of adult mosquitoes against some class of insecticides in Osogbo metropolis, Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Busari Lateef. O. , Raheem Haleemah O. , Iwalewa Zarat O. , Fasasi Kamilu A. , Adeleke Monsuru A.
Published: May 2023

The study evaluates the resistance and susceptibility of adult female Anopheles gambiae s. l., Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes sourced within Osogbo metropolis, Osun State, Nigeria to four groups of insecticides [Permethrin, Deltamethrin, Pirimiphos-methyl and DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane)] and the distribution of their larval habitat within the metropolis. Mosquito larvae of the three genera were collected during the wet season and reared to adult stage in the laboratory. Emerged adult female mosquitoes were exposed to insecticide impregnated papers of the four insecticide groups for 60mins using WHO kits to determine the knock down rate (kdr). Thereafter, they were transferred into holding tubes and left for 24hrs to assess their resistance and susceptibility according to the WHO protocol. Four types of larval habitats were identified (tires, ground pools, gutters and plastic containers). Anopheles gambiae s. l. showed the highest resistance to Permethrin (49%) (p = 0.04, p<0.05) while the highest susceptibility was recorded with Pirimiphos-methyl (69%) with the lowest against Permethrin (16%) (P = 0.002; p<0.05). The highest resistance of A. aegypti was against OC-Control (45%) (p = 0.031; p<0.05). Permethrin had the highest susceptibility (60%) against A. aegypti while OC-control had the lowest (11%) (p = 0.005; p< 0.05). Culex quinquefasciatus had a lower resistance to OC-control (38%) as compared with Aedes aegypti (45%). However, it was least susceptible to Pirimiphos-methyl (52%) and DDT (17%) respectively (p = 0.013; p<0.05). The susceptibility of A. gambiae s. l. and C. quinquefasciatus to Pirimiphos-methyl and A. aegypti to Permethrin is an indication of the possibility of success if employed for vector control of A. gambiae s. l., C. quinquefasciatus and A. aegypti respectively. This could be through their inclusion as active ingredients in insecticide treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spray (IRS) with a view to abating malaria and other life-threatening mosquito-borne diseases constituting global public health scourge.
Comparative analysis of different artificial neural networks for predicting and optimizing in vitro seed germination and sterilization of petunia
Authors: Rezaei Hamed , Mirzaie-asl Asghar , Abdollahi Mohammad Reza , Tohidfar Masoud
Published: May 2023

The process of optimizing in vitro seed sterilization and germination is a complicated task since this process is influenced by interactions of many factors (e.g., genotype, disinfectants, pH of the media, temperature, light, immersion time). This study investigated the role of various types and concentrations of disinfectants (i.e., NaOCl, Ca(ClO)2, HgCl2, H2O2, NWCN-Fe, MWCNT) as well as immersion time in successful in vitro seed sterilization and germination of petunia. Also, the utility of three artificial neural networks (ANNs) (e.g., multilayer perceptron (MLP), radial basis function (RBF), and generalized regression neural network (GRNN)) as modeling tools were evaluated to analyze the effect of disinfectants and immersion time on in vitro seed sterilization and germination. Moreover, non‑dominated sorting genetic algorithm‑II (NSGA‑II) was employed for optimizing the selected prediction model. The GRNN algorithm displayed superior predictive accuracy in comparison to MLP and RBF models. Also, the results showed that NSGA‑II can be considered as a reliable multi-objective optimization algorithm for finding the optimal level of disinfectants and immersion time to simultaneously minimize contamination rate and maximize germination percentage. Generally, GRNN-NSGA-II as an up-to-date and reliable computational tool can be applied in future plant in vitro culture studies.
Patient perspectives on the use of mobile apps to support heart failure management: A qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Sivakumar Bridve , Lemonde Manon , Stein Matthew , Mak Susanna , Al-Hesayen Abdul , Arcand JoAnne
Published: May 2023

Background

Adherence to diet and medical therapies are key to improving heart failure (HF) outcomes; however, nonadherence is common. While mobile apps may be a promising way to support patients with adherence via education and monitoring, HF patient perspectives regarding the use of apps for HF management in unknown. This data is critical for these tools to be successfully developed, implemented, and adopted to optimize adherence and improve HF outcomes.

Objective

To determine patients’ needs, motivations, and challenges on the use of mobile apps to support HF management.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study using focus groups (n = 4,60 minutes) was conducted among HF patients from outpatient HF clinics in Toronto, Canada. The Diffusion of Innovation theory informed a ten-question interview guide. Interview transcripts were independently coded by two researchers and analyzed using content analysis.

Results

Nineteen HF patients (65 ± 10 yrs, 12 men) identified a total of four key themes related to the use of mobile apps. The theme ‘Factors impacting technology use by patients’ identified motivations and challenges to app use, including access to credible information, easy and accessible user-interface. Three themes described patients’ needs on the use of mobile apps to support HF management: 1) ‘Providing patient support through access to information and self-monitoring’, apps could provide education on HF-related content (e.g., diet, medication, symptoms); 2) ‘Facilitating connection and communication’, through information sharing with healthcare providers and connecting with other patients; 3) ‘Patient preferences’, app features such as reminders for medication, and visuals to show changes in HF symptoms were favoured.

Conclusions

HF patients perceive several benefits and challenges to app use for HF self-management. Capitalizing on the benefits and addressing the challenges during the app development process may maximize adoption of such tools in this patient population.
Exploring effects of response biases in affect induction procedures
Authors: Moulds David J. , Meyer Jona , McLean Janet F. , Kempe Vera
Published: May 2023

This study examined whether self-reports or ratings of experienced affect, often used as manipulation checks on the efficacy of affect induction procedures (AIPs), reflect genuine changes in affective states rather than response biases arising from demand characteristics or social desirability effects. In a between-participants design, participants were exposed to positive, negative and neutral images with valence-congruent music or sound to induce happy, sad and neutral mood. Half of the participants had to actively appraise each image whereas the other half viewed images passively. We hypothesised that if ratings of affective valence are subject to response biases then they should reflect the target mood in the same way for active appraisal and passive exposure as participants encountered the same affective stimuli in both conditions. We also tested whether the AIP resulted in mood-congruent changes in facial expressions analysed by FaceReader to see whether behavioural indicators corroborate the self-reports. The results showed that while participants’ ratings reflected the induced target valence, the difference between positive and negative AIP was significantly attenuated in the active appraisal condition, suggesting that self-reports of mood experienced after the AIP are not entirely a reflection of response biases. However, there were no effects of the AIP on FaceReader valence scores, in line with theories questioning the existence of cross-culturally and inter-individually universal behavioural indicators of affective states. Efficacy of AIPs is therefore best checked using self-reports.
BART, the Black American Role Taxonomy: A culturally expansive approach to role theory and method
Authors: Stevens Adam D.-F.
Published: May 2023

This article will investigate how performance can identify racialized archetypes, stereotypes and roles located in therapeutic spaces. It will present ways we can utilize these stereotypes to create and expand upon Landy’s role method and role theory to empower Black Americans to claim their identity. This research has been conducted as an autoethnographic study in order to create an open dialogue about racialized roles that surfaced in a therapeutic theatre production and in clinical practice. Issues regarding race are difficult to discuss and present fierce levels of discomfort in clinical spaces. This article highlights the necessity to continue meaningful conversations about race in the field of drama therapy. Further, this work looks to contribute to the development of cross-cultural practices in drama therapy.
Learning in crisis: Notes to myself
Authors: Thibedi Linda (Mdena)
Published: May 2023

This written piece of work is made up of small notes to myself. As the author, I reflect on my experiences and beliefs of things I have had to learn, unlearn and accept. These notes reflect how I breathe and find myself navigating the teaching and learning space during the COVID-19 pandemic. Putting voice to some of the thoughts and realities which are not always articulated, but embraced and housed in this Black, female, Xhosa body.
Container
Authors: Richards Jennifer
Published: May 2023

Ten images of artworks created using found photographs are shown as a means of containing the stories of their clients and therapist. In these pieces, the author uses a photocopy from a Google search, broken jewellery and a canvas in a multimedia art style. The photocopy is used to create the shape of a boundary on the canvas and the broken jewellery is used to organize the trauma of the client.
Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen: The Emotional Lives of Black Women, Inger Burnett-Zeigler (2021)
Authors: Mqwathi Zandile , Daniels Lauren , Chisirimunhu Kathemba Tendai
Published: May 2023

Review of: Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen: The Emotional Lives of Black Women, Inger Burnett-Zeigler (2021)

New York: HarperCollins, 257 pp.,

ISBN 978-0-06295-984-3, e-book, $17.69
Africa and Climate Justice at COP27 and beyond: impacts and solutions through an interdisciplinary lens
Authors: Williams Jhénelle , Chin-Yee Simon , Maslin Mark , Barnsley Jonathan , Costello Anthony , Lang John , McGlade Jacqueline , Mulugetta Yacob , Taylor Richard , Winning Matthew , parikh priti
Published: May 2023

Climate justice needs to be at the heart of the COP27 negotiations in Sharm El Sheikh. Climate justice is not just a financial transaction to protect the environment. It needs to be seen as the protection of the most vulnerable in society after centuries of resource exploitation. African countries disproportionately face impacts of climate change on their environments, their economies, their resources, and their infrastructure. This leads to greater vulnerability and increased exposure to the negative effects of a changing climate. In this article, we highlight the importance of climate justice and its role within the UN negotiations, and ultimately in concrete action. We discuss current climate impacts across key sectors in the African region, with a focus on health, infrastructure, food and water scarcity, energy, and finance. All sectors are affected by climate change. They are interconnected and under threat. This triggers a ripple effect, where threats in one sector have a knock-on effect on other sectors. We find that the current set of intergovernmental institutions have failed to adequately address climate justice. We also contend that a siloed approach to climate action has proven to be ineffective. As we head towards the next set of negotiations (COP27), this paper argues that the economic and social conditions in Africa can be addressed through financial and collaborative support for adaptation and localised solutions, but that this will only be achieved if climate justice is prioritised by the decision makers. This needs to include a global-scale transition in how climate finance is assessed and accessed. Climate justice underpins real effective and sustainable solutions for climate action in Africa.
THE LEGAL REGULATORY FRAMEWORK OF SHARIA SECURITIES CROWDFUNDING IN INDONESIA
Authors: Noor Afif
Published: May 2023

The Sharia SCF industry is thriving in Indonesia with an increasing number of providers and users, but it is also very high risk. To establish trust and ensure investment security, a strong legal framework is needed. This study uses a statutory approach to examine the legal regulatory framework for Sharia SCF. The research found that while Article 33 of the 1945 Constitution forms the basis of Sharia SCF regulations, the industry is not specifically regulated by law. Instead, the Financial Services Authority issued POJK No. 57/2020 based on Law No. 21/2011. However, in the future, the Sharia SCF industry must be regulated by law to provide maximum legal certainty and protection for users or consumers.
A numerical Haar wavelet-finite difference hybrid method and its convergence for nonlinear hyperbolic partial differential equation
Authors: Lei Weidong , Ahsan Muhammad , Khan Waqas , Uddin Zaheer , Ahmad Masood
Published: May 2023

In this research work, we proposed a Haar wavelet collocation method (HWCM) for the numerical solution of first- and second-order nonlinear hyperbolic equations. The time derivative in the governing equations is approximated by a finite difference. The nonlinear hyperbolic equation is converted into its full algebraic form once the space derivatives are replaced by the finite Haar series. Convergence analysis is performed both in space and time, where the computational results follow the theoretical statements of convergence. Many test problems with different nonlinear terms are presented to verify the accuracy, capability, and convergence of the proposed method for the first- and second-order nonlinear hyperbolic equations.
The crystal structure of diaqua-methanol-κ1
O- (3-thiophenecarboxylato-κO)-(2,2′-dipyridyl-κ2
N,N′)manganese(II) 3-thiophenecarboxylate, C21H22N2O7S2Mn
Authors: Shi Zheng , Zhang Zhongyu , Han Bing , Li Yunyun
Published: May 2023

C21H22N2O7S2Mn, monoclinic, P21/c (no. 14), a = 14.544(6) Å, b = 9.636(4) Å, c = 17.087(7) Å, β = 

96.664

(
6
)

°

$96.664(6){}^{\circ}$

, V = 2378.5(17) Å3, Z = 4,

R

g
t

${R}_{\mathit{g}\mathit{t}}$

(F) = 0.0349,

w

R

r
e
f

$w{R}_{\mathit{r}\mathit{e}\mathit{f}}$

(F
2) = 0.1036, T = 273.15 K.
Semiotic ladder: the schema of producing meanings in narrative
Authors: Mahmoodi Mohammad Ali , Savab Fatemeh
Published: May 2023

A model called the “semiotic ladder,” which consists of “consecutive semiotic squares,” is proposed in this paper, through which the meanings of the deep structure of a narrative can be depicted as fluid and dynamic. It shows the stages of producing meanings in the narrative, from beginning to end. To see this, several narratives in the epic and mythological genres are analyzed in order to discover their abstract and deep structural meanings, and to prove the dynamic nature of meaning in the semiotic ladder. According to the analysis, the process of the semiotic ladder depicts the displacement and fluidity of narrative meanings using consecutive semiotic squares, and this pattern can be applied to and implemented in all narratives. Also, the semiotic ladder allows us to clearly observe the pattern of movement of the narrative subject schema in the path of accomplishing the object.
Quantum image processing on real superconducting and trapped-ion based quantum computers
Authors: Geng Alexander , Moghiseh Ali , Redenbach Claudia , Schladitz Katja
Published: May 2023

The size and number of images and the amount of data we process every day have grown rapidly over the last years. Quantum computers promise to process this data more efficiently since classical images can be stored in quantum states. Experiments on quantum computer simulators prove the paradigms this promise is built on to be correct. However, currently, running the very same algorithms on a real quantum computer is often too error-prone to be of any practical use. We explore the current possibilities for image processing on real quantum computers. We redesign a commonly used quantum image encoding technique to reduce its susceptibility to errors. We show experimentally that the current size limit for images to be encoded on a quantum computer and subsequently retrieved with an error of at most 5 % is 2 × 2 pixels. A way to circumvent this limitation is to combine ideas of classical filtering with a quantum algorithm operating locally, only. We show the practicability of this strategy using the application example of edge detection. Our hybrid filtering scheme’s quantum part is an artificial neuron, working well on real quantum computers, too.
Aβ-CT Affective Touch: Touch Pleasantness Ratings for Gentle Stroking and Deep Pressure Exhibit Dependence on A-Fibers
Authors: Case Laura K. , Madian Nicholas , McCall Micaela V. , Bradson Megan L. , Liljencrantz Jaquette , Goldstein Benjamin , Alasha Vincent J. , Zimmerman Marisa S.
Published: May 2023

Gentle stroking of the skin is a common social touch behavior with positive affective consequences. A preference for slow versus fast stroking of hairy skin has been closely linked to the firing of unmyelinated C-tactile (CT) somatosensory afferents. Because the firing of CT afferents strongly correlates with touch pleasantness, the CT pathway has been considered a social-affective sensory pathway. Recently, ablation of the spinothalamic pathway- thought to convey all C-fiber sensations- in patients with cancer pain impaired pain, temperature, and itch, but not ratings of pleasant touch. This suggested integration of afferent A and CT fiber input in the spinal cord, or mechanoreceptive A-fiber contributions to computations of touch pleasantness in the brain. However, contribution of mechanoreceptive A-fibers to touch pleasantness, in humans without pain, remains unknown. In the current, single-blinded study, we performed two types of peripheral nerve blocks in healthy adults to temporarily eliminate the contribution of A-fibers to touch perception. Our findings show that when mechanoreceptive A-fiber function is greatly diminished, the perceived intensity and pleasantness of both gentle stroking and deep pressure are nearly abolished. These findings demonstrate that explicit perception of the pleasantness of CT-targeted brushing and pressure both critically depend on afferent A-fibers.
Skin and bones: systemic mastocytosis and bone
Authors: Wang Mawson , Seibel Markus J
Published: May 2023

We report the case of a 69-year-old female with systemic mastocytosis, diagnosed based on widespread pigmented papules and macules, elevated serum tryptase levels and confirmatory skin and bone marrow biopsy, on a background of osteoporosis. A CT demonstrated multiple sclerotic lesions within lumbar vertebral bodies, sacrum and ileum, with surrounding osteolysis but no obvious compression fractures. She was treated with the RANK-L inhibitor denosumab, resulting in significant bone mineral density gain over the following 5 years. However, her serum tryptase levels gradually increased during this period despite treatment with the multikinase inhibitor, midostaurin. It is thus conceivable that her rapid increase in bone mineral density may be partly contributed by a predominance of pro-osteoblastic mediators released by abnormal mast cells, suggestive of more advanced disease. This case highlights the complexities of systemic mastocytosis-related bone disease and the interplay of numerous mediators contributing to a phenotype of both increased bone resorption and formation.

Learning points

Systemic mastocytosis is a neoplastic disease of mast cells characterized by abnormal proliferation and accumulation in the skin and other organs. It is most frequently associated with the somatic gain-of-function KIT D816V mutation.

Systemic mastocytosis should be suspected in patients presenting with not only cutaneous symptoms suggestive of mast cell degranulation such as anaphylaxis, flushing or urticaria but also unexplained osteoporosis and gastrointestinal and constitutional symptoms.

The prevalence of osteoporosis in systemic mastocytosis is high. Mast cell activation leads to the secretion of numerous chemical mediators which either promote or inhibit osteoclastic and/or osteoblastic activity, with the balance usually in favour of increased bone resorption. However, in advanced diseases with high mast cell burden, mast-cell-derived cytokines and mediators may promote osteoblastic activity, leading to osteosclerosis and apparent increases in bone mineral density.

Treatment of osteoporosis in systemic mastocytosis involves antiresorptive therapy with bisphosphonates and more recently, denosumab. There are limited data on the role of osteoanabolic agents.
Polyfunctional highly selective sorption materials for water purification from radionuclides and other inorganic ecotoxicatnts
Authors:   Dumansky Institute of Colloid Chemistry and Water Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine., Pshinko Galyna Mykolaivna , Puzyrna Liubov Mykolaivna ,   Dumansky Institute of Colloid Chemistry and Water Chemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine.
Published: May 2023

A solution to an important ecological problem is proposed ‒ the creation, on the basis of systematic research, of the scientific foundations for the purposeful production of environmentally friendly polyfunctional materials based on layered double hydroxides (LDHs), their magnetic composites and magnetic potassium zinc hexacyanoferrate with highly selective properties for purification (additional purification) of aqueous media from U(VI), 137Cs, 90Sr, 152,154Eu, Cu(II), Co(II), Cd(II), Ni(II), Pb(II), Zn(II) and Mn(II), chromate and phosphate anions, which will make it possible to form a reserve stock of sorbents ‒ means of rapid response in the event of emergencies at nuclear power plants and other nuclear energy enterprises, to prevent pollution of ecosystems and restore their quality. It is shown that the choice of functional and analytical groups of the interlayer ligand LDH, depending on the form of existence of ecotoxicants in the aquatic environment, provides a high sorption capacity of these materials with respect to radionuclides and other inorganic ecotoxicants, and the presence of a magnetic component ‒ the manufacturability of use in water purification processes. The advantages of these sorbents over world industrial synthetic analogs are low cost, environmental safety and technological accessibility of production (without additional costs for specific conditions and reagents) and use (high-tech and personnel-safe method for separating the solid phase of the spent sorbent by magnetic separation) in decontamination processes of significant volumes of LRW and other aqueous media. The book is intended for specialists in the field of radiochemistry and ecology working in research laboratories and at enterprises of the atomic-industrial complex, for teachers, graduate students, students of chemical and environmental specialties.
UKRAINE’S POST-WAR ECONOMY: INTERNATIONAL AID AND GROWTH POLICY
Authors:   State Institution “Institute for Economics and Forecasting, NAS of Ukraine”, Pustovoit Oleh
Published: May 2023

The full-scale war unleashed in 2022 by the Russian Federation against Ukraine is accompanied by massive destruction of infrastructure and industrial facilities. Their rapid recovery is impossible without international assistance. However, it is known from history that the use of such aid did not always lead to accelerated post-war recovery of countries whose markets and economies are developing. Knowledge of such facts urged Western scientists to search for a mechanism of aid's impact on economic growth. Researches that began in the 1960s did not shed light on this mechanism. However, they did show that aid speeded up economic growth and recovery in countries that conducted better fiscal, monetary, and trade policies and succeeded in establishing the rule of law. In the article, a slightly different scientific approach is substantiated. It assumes that when the country implements not only a better fiscal, monetary, foreign trade, institutional, but also structural economic policy, the impact of international aid on postwar economic growth can significantly increase. The proposed approach gives grounds for the statement that the limited amount of aid in Ukraine should not be dissipated on the reconstruction of all industrial facilities destroyed and damaged by the war, but it is advisable to concentrate it on the restoration of enterprises that are able to start production and sale of increased technological complexity products on international markets within a short period. The advantages of such use of the aid are shown by calculation. It shows that directing international aid at expanding exports of high technological complexity items would create in Ukraine favorable conditions for increasing the post-war annual growth rates of commodity production to 10% and reduce the period of recovery of this indicator to the 2021 level from 12 to 6 years. At the same time, arguments are given that the proposed use of aid is only a means of shortening the terms of the economy's exit from the crisis and its transition to a state of accelerated growth. It will be possible to turn this state into a long-term economic trend only if an effective mechanism is introduced for encouraging the companies’ innovative activities and attracting foreign investments in industries producing items of increased technological complexity. Modeling possible scenarios of the post-war recovery of Ukraine's economy somewhat expands the scientific understanding of the mechanism of aid's effect on a country’s economic growth. In particular, it is supplemented by the idea that in the post-war period, international aid plays the role of a driver of high rates of a country’s economic growth to the extent that it contributes to economic restructuring of the production from military to civil mode transforming it from technologically simple to more technologically complex.
STRUCTURAL CHANGES IN THE INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION SECTOR IN THE CREATIVE ECONOMY SYSTEM OF THE EU COUNTRIES: EXPERIENCE FOR UKRAINE
Authors:   Ivan Franko National University of Lviv, Kichurchak Marianna
Published: May 2023

One of the major factors to form a creative economy in the EU countries and Ukraine is the development of the information and communication sector (ICS). The purpose of the article is to evaluate the structural transformation peculiarities of the ICS in the EU countries in the conditions of forming and developing the creative economy and to determine the chief directions of adaptation of this experience to the social and economic situation in Ukraine. Scientific methods of induction, deduction, analysis, synthesis, statistical evaluation of variation, and multiple econometric modelling are used. The author has specified that the ICS contributes to the formation of the creative economy in Ukraine and the EU countries, based on a gradual increase in the share of this sector in output and employment in 2008–2020. The scientific and methodological approach to evaluating of structural changes in the ICS as a component of the creative economy has been formed including: a comparative analysis of the dynamics of output (% of GDP) and employment (% of total) in the ICS between the EU countries and Ukraine; determining the features of spatial differentiation based on calculating the scope of variation, sample variance and coefficient of variation for the main social and economic indicators of ICS; and identifying factors that affect output of the ICS (% of GDP) by means of the multiple regression analysis. In 2008–2020, the existence of different dynamics of the sector’s impact on the development of creative economy in the EU countries is substantiated via the increase in the value of variation in terms of output (% of GDP) and employment (% of total). According to the results of multiple regression analysis, the author has found out the factors influencing the output of the ICS in the EU countries, which include the current social and economic situation in the country, and the amount of expenditures on R&D and on unemployment. Taking into account the experience of the EU countries, it is important for Ukraine to encourage economic activities in the ICS, which are based on structural reforms.
EVALUATION OF THE ECONOMIC POTENTIAL OF TRADE INDUSTRY COMPANIES OF UKRAINE
Authors:   State University of Trade and Economics, Loi Anna
Published: May 2023

The economic potential of Ukraine’s trade industry for the period 2014-2020 is estimated based on the analysis of structural changes in the industry and economic potential of trade companies. Pre-war performance indicators show that the trade industry of Ukraine was one of the drivers of the economy. At the same time, the period of the beginning of the COVID restrictions led to the growth of not only e-commerce, but also trade in general. But Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which began on February 24, 2022, caused a great damage to both the Ukrainian economy in general and the trade industry in particular. The study reveals the consolidation of regional business trading companies and further specialization of small businesses. The drivers of the trade industry development are the growth of information and technical and technological potential of its companies. Accordingly, among the priority areas for capital investment in the industry are software, and obtaining patents, licenses and trademarks, both own and those obtained by partner companies. Assessment of the financial potential of companies in the trade sector reveals a tendency to move from long-term to short-term financing, which indicates increased business risks. The sources of the risks include the rising energy prices and instability of the foreign economic situation with constant changes in the regulation of the industry. Estimates of the economic potential of Ukraine’s trade industry are supplemented by an analysis of warehousing, which is a related industry for trade. As cases of destruction of warehouses during the current hostilities have shown, the development of warehousing is critical for the realization of the economic potential of trade. It was found that the warehousing industry shows uneven development by region. Based on the analysis, the author formulates a series of recommendations on the directions of economic policy for the post-war recovery of trade and warehousing.
A LEADER OF ECONOMIC RESEARCH AT THE TURN OF THE ERA (to the 95th anniversary of I.I.Lukinov)
Authors:   State Institution “Institute for Economics and Forecasting, NAS of Ukraine”, Nebrat Viktoriia
Published: May 2023

The jubilee article presents Academician I. Lukinov's creative and organizational contribution to the development of Ukrainian economic science. The author outlines the areas of the scholar's research in the Soviet period. The significance of I. Lukinov's innovative ideas for overcoming negative trends in the functioning of the planned centralized economy is substantiated. The scientist’s scientific position is revealed as regards the justification of the strategy of market transformations and socio-economic development of Ukraine in the era of state independence.
DAILY OPTIMIZATION OF A WORKING SCHEDULE OF THE HYDROPOWER PLANT ON THE "DAY AHEAD" MARKET
Authors:   Institute of Electrodynamics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,  pr. Peremohy, 56, Kyiv, 03057, Ukraine, Parus E.V. , Blinov I.V. ,   Institute of Electrodynamics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,  pr. Peremohy, 56, Kyiv, 03057, Ukraine, Olefir D.O. ,   PJSC "Centrenergo", st. Rudykivska, 4908711, Kozyn, Ukraine
Published: May 2023

A mathematical model of the daily optimization of available hydro resources of hydropower plants is presented as a tool for solving the problem of determining hourly volumes of electricity sales in the «day ahead» market segment, taking into account technological limitations and volumes of electricity under already concluded agreements. The method of preparation of input data in the part of calculations of the coefficients of the objective function and the system of constraints is presented. An example of solving the problem of daily optimization of the available hydro resources of the Kyiv HPP is demonstrated and the need to use additional non-price optimization criteria is substantiated. Bibl. 7, figure.
EXPERIMENTAL STUDY OF THERMAL CHARACTERISTICS OF LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
Authors:   Institute of Electrodynamics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,  pr. Peremohy, 56, Kyiv, 03057, Ukraine, Pavlov V.B. , Podoltsev O.D. ,   Institute of Electrodynamics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,  pr. Peremohy, 56, Kyiv, 03057, Ukraine, Zapadynchuk O.P. ,   Institute of Electrodynamics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,  pr. Peremohy, 56, Kyiv, 03057, Ukraine, Pavlenko V.E. ,   Institute of Electrodynamics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,  pr. Peremohy, 56, Kyiv, 03057, Ukraine
Published: May 2023

The work gives a detailed description of lithium-ion batteries and methods of their use in technical devices of various purposes. The basic technical characteristics of the main types of industrial lithium batteries are presented and it is shown that lithium-iron-phosphate, lithium-titanate and lithium-carbon-titanate batteries are currently used in autonomous electric vehicles. The work also analyzed the results of bench tests of lithium-titanate and lithium-carbon-titanate batteries in terms of their temperature state at different values of external temperature and different levels of charge-discharge currents. The results of the tests showed the limit values of the battery heating temperature, as well as a change in the charging process at sub-zero ambient temperatures, which requires the necessary measures - cooling or heating - when assembling the traction battery from the tested elements. Bibl. 8, figure, table 12.
FACTORS FOR RELIABLE OPERATION OF MODERN POWER CABLES WITH SOLID INSULATION
Authors:   Institute of Electrodynamics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine,  pr. Peremohy, 56, Kyiv, 03057, Ukraine, Kucheriava I.M.
Published: May 2023

The paper presents a review and analyzes of the principal factors for reliable operation of the power cables with polymer insulation. The basic conditions for long-term operation of the insulation, typical defects in its structure and the causes of their occurrence, which eventually lead to insulation failure, are defined and summarized. According to scientific data, the influence of different electrical modes of the cable operation on cable line service is described, the effects of the higher harmonics, asymmetry and non-sinusoidal voltage on the state of the insulation, its accelerated aging, the increase in cable temperature, and therefore the need to correct the current loading are studied. Such impacts can cause the risk of failure of the cables, their operation and the breakdowns of the electrical network as well as additional economic costs. The new intelligent systems for on-line control of electrical, thermal and mechanical characteristics and partial discharges in power cable lines are presented. These systems are intended to control automatically the insulation state and cable line operation, to protect power cable lines against emergency situations. Ref. 53, fig. 3, tables 2.
Comparison between the Theoretical Calculation of Coulomb Form Factors and Experimental Data for 12C and 20Ne Nuclei
Authors: Dlshad H.M. , Fatah A.H.
Published: May 2023

The Coulomb form factors for the elastic and inelastic electron-nucleus scatterings have been calculated for 12C and 20Ne nuclei in the ground and excited states with the same parity. We use a microscopic theory involving the effects from high configurations outside the model space, which are called the Core Polarization (CP) effects. For the core polarization matrix elements, the realistic Michigan sum of the three-range Yukawa (M3Y) interaction and the Modified Surface Delta Interaction (MSDI) are used as the two-body interactions. Additionally, the Harmonic Oscillators (HO) potential is applied to calculate wave functions. In the final step, a comparison has been made between the theoretical calculations of Coulomb form factors based on (M3Y) and (MSDI) interactions and the available experimental data. It is noticed that the Coulomb form factors for the (M3Y) interaction give a sensible delineation of the measured data.