bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Notes on patagium morphology in the Gliding Flat-tailed House Gecko (Hemidactylus platyurus)
Authors: Petty Amber , Gamble Tony , Griffing Aaron
Published: November 2024

Several species of geckos have independently evolved patagia, membranous features that facilitate gliding.Detailed morphological investigations of gecko patagia have largely been limited to gliding members of the genus Gekko(formerly in the genus Ptychozoon). Herein we describe the morphology of gliding patagia of the Flat-tailed HouseGecko (Hemidactylus platyurus), a species with an independent evolutionary origin of gliding patagia from Gekko andan important species for researching gliding biomechanics. We compared morphology of H. platyurus with a closelyrelated non-gliding species, the Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus). Using external examination and histologicaltechniques, we compared and contrasted three regions that exhibit patagia (trunk, femoral region, and tail)in H. platyurus but not in H. frenatus. We find that patagia in a gliding Hemidactylus, like patagia in gliding membersof the genus Gekko, are derived from expansion of lateral fat bodies, suggesting analogous processes to achieve similarphenotypic outcomes.
Adalék Vitnyédy István könyvtárának kiépüléséhez
Authors: Károlyi Bálint
Published: November 2024

Vitnyédy István patronáltjának Dömötöri Györgynek küldött levelében több témában nyilatkozik meg. Többek között engedetlen patronáltjaival és a vele szemben egyre ellenségesebben viselkedő fiával Jánossal kapcsolatban is. A levelének legérdekesebb része a post scriptum, amiben utasítja Dömötörit, hogy minél hamarabb szerezzen be számára könyveket és azokat küldje is el neki Sopronba.
550 éves a magyarországi könyvnyomtatás
Authors: V. Ecsedy Judit
Published: November 2024

550 évvel ezelőtt, 1473. június 5‑én fejezte be Budán Andreas Hess könyvnyomtató a Chronica Hungarorum nyomtatását. Erre a jeles alkalomra az év folyamán több megemlékezést és tudományos konferenciát rendeztek országszerte.
Mikó Árpád, Régi magyar bibliofilek nyomában, Tanulmányok a magyarországi reneszánsz könyvkultúra és miniatúrafestészet köréből, 15–17. század, 1–2. kötet, Budapest, Bölcsészettudományi Kutatóközpont, Művészettörténeti Intézet, 2023.
Authors: Rozsondai Marianne
Published: November 2024

Elegáns két kötetbe összegyűjtve eddig megjelent tanulmányaiból és cikkeiből harmincat ad közre a szerző, nem keletkezésük időrendjében, hanem tartalmuk, mondanivalójuk történeti folyamatában. Sokunk számára ismert tanulmányok, de közülük több nem a könnyen hozzáférhető folyóiratokban, hanem tanulmánykötetekben vagy születésnapi ünnepi kötetekben jelent meg  esetleg kiállításra készült kötetekben, vagy konferenciakötetben. Pedig e tanulmányok több más tudományág művelőit is közelről érdekelhetik. Én úgy tapasztalom, hogy az ilyen alkalmi kötetek a cikkek szerzőin kívül aránylag kisszámú olvasó-vásárló látóterébe jutnak el. – Egyetlen nyomtatásban meg nem jelent, értelemszerűen először itt olvasható tanulmányt tartalmaz a második kötet (Címereslevelek a Báthoryak korából), amely előadásként hangzott el Kolozsvárt 2009-ben, a B[enkőné] Nagy Margit emlékére rendezett ülésen.
Elena Gatti, Francesco Zambrini tra filologia e bibliografia, [Dueville], Ronzani Editore, 2023 (Storia e cultura del libro. Historica, 5)
Authors: Szovák Márton
Published: November 2024

Francesco Zambrini nem tartozik a Magyarországon leggyakrabban emlegetett olaszok közé, a food-fashion-Ferrari háromszögben tevékenykedők mellett sem a filológusok, sem a bibliográfusok nem örvendenek széles ismertségnek. Ugyanakkor Zambrini életműve, különösen a 13–14. századi itáliai népnyelvű művek legkorábbi kiadásairól összeállított bibliográfiája figyelemre méltó lehet a korai olasz nyelv és irodalom tanulmányozása, az olasz egység kultúr- és nyelvpolitikájának vizsgálata, a 19. századi könyves kutatások tudománytörténeti elemzése és nemzetközi összehasonlítása során is, ezért remélem, hogy jelen ismertetés több lesz puszta tiszteletkörnél.
Text Redundancy in Academic Writing: A Scoping Review
Authors: Tikhonova Elena , Mezentseva Daria , Kasatkin Petr
Published: November 2024

Background: Academic writing aims to communicate and disseminate new knowledge and discoveries effectively, necessitating a balance of brevity and thoroughness in the expression of scientific ideas. However, the quality of academic writing is often compromised by various factors that reduce clarity and readability. Among these — a well-known issue in general writing that remains insufficiently addressed in the academic context. Although studies have examined redundancy in written texts broadly, there is limited focus on its specific implications in academic writing. Currently, there is no shared understanding, of the problem in academic writing, nor a common classification, or comprehensive analysis of the causes and effects of redundancy in academic texts.
Purpose: This article seeks to map the existing literature on text redundancy, examining its definitions and types. It further investigates factors contributing to redundancy in academic writing and assesses the impact of text redundancy on the clarity, coherence, and overall quality of academic communication.
Materials and Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines and the “PCC” mnemonic (Population, Context, Concept) were applied to establish inclusion and exclusion criteria. A literature search was conducted in June 2024, employing a detailed search strategy across two electronic databases, Scopus and Google Scholar, initially yielding 252 studies.
Results: A total of 65 English-language studies on text redundancy were included in the review. The synthesis of these studies revealed diverse perspectives on redundancy: some view it as a detractor from text quality and comprehension, while others regard it as a strategy improve clarity and explicitness. Various classifications of redundancy emerged, including distinctions by mode of expression, nature, and role or impact. The review examined both the functions and implications of redundancy in academic written communication.
Conclusion: This review underscores the dual role of text redundancy in academic writing. Redundancy can enhance comprehension by reinforcing key points but may also hinder communication through excessive repetition. The study classifies redundancy into three main categories: functional (beneficial), wordiness (excessive), and contextual redundancy. This framework offers writers guidance on managing redundancy effectively. The article highlights the importance of balancing necessary repetition with conciseness to maintain clarity and reader engagement, noting that excessive redundancy may lead to reader fatigue.
Çiçek Sınıflandırmada AlexNet ve MobileNetV2 mimarilerinin performans karşılaştırması
Authors: Karabay Gözde Sena , Çavaş Mehmet , Avcı Engin
Published: November 2024

Çeşitliliğin fazla olması nedeniyle çiçek türlerini sınıflandırma problemi zorlu bir süreçtir. Bu alanla ilgili çalışmalar yapan araştırmacıların işlerini kolaylaştırmak için bilgisayarlı görü ve derin öğrenme uygulamaları büyük avantaj sağlamaktadır. Derin öğrenme yöntemleri yeni algoritmaların geliştirilmesiyle yüksek başarılara ulaşabilmektedir Birçok alanda kullanılan bu yöntemler çiçek türlerini sınıflandırmada da başarılı sonuçlar vermektedir. Yapılan bu çalışmada Oxford-17 veri seti kullanılmıştır. Veri setinde 17 sınıfa ait 1360 adet çiçek görüntüsü yer almaktadır. Evrişimsel sinir ağları kullanılarak oluşturulan bu çalışmada derin öğrenme mimarilerinden AlexNet ve MobileNetV2 mimarilerinin performans karşılaştırmaları yapılarak AlexNet mimarisinden %93,1, MobileNetV2 mimarisinden %93,9 başarı oranı elde edilmiştir.
A review of the system for gifted young scientists education in the field of musicology in Turkiye
Authors: Yılma Şakalar Günsu
Published: November 2024

This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of the system for training gifted young scientists in the field of musicology in Türkiye. Undergraduate and graduate programs in universities offering musicology education in Türkiye, their academic structures, career opportunities for students, and the impact of existing educational processes on the development of scientists have been examined in detail. The curriculum structures of musicology departments, the adequacy of course contents, and the theoretical and practical aspects of these educational programs have been discussed, focusing on how this field contributes to scientific advancements in Türkiye. By closely analyzing the educational processes within musicology departments, the study evaluates their position and scientific contributions within national and international academic circles. Additionally, the historical development of musicology education in Türkiye and the current challenges in its structure have been identified, and solutions to address these issues have been proposed. Based on the findings of the research, it is concluded that interdisciplinary collaboration, curriculum development in musicology departments, the expansion of graduate programs, and the improvement of the processes for training scientists are necessary. This study offers significant recommendations for enhancing musicology education in Türkiye, making it more effective and grounded in scientific principles.
ULTIMATE BOUND FOR AN ACTIVE LORENZ SYSTEM
Authors: Cui Carol , Cui Zhenlu
Published: November 2024

Considering the Lorenz-like model [1] derived from Active Model H for scalar active matter introduced by Tiribocchi et al. [2], we investigate the ultimate bound and global attractive sets for the system, and obtain the ultimate bound characterized by an ellipsoid and a global exponential attractive set for the system.
VALIDATION OF SPECIES TRANSPORT MODEL TO SIMULATE AGENT TRANSPORT IN A NACELLE
Authors: Shanmugasundaram Sanjay , Disimile Peter J.
Published: November 2024

This is in continuation of work done to study the parameters that affect fire suppressant delivery and distribution in an idealized aircraft engine nacelle, based on the quarter scale model used at WPAFB. The primary objective of this paper is to outline the study of the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach to study the injection and spread of an inert fire suppressant in an idealized aircraft engine nacelle and to validate the model used. The inert gas (Nitrogen) is used as the fire suppressant. Initially, the work done by Hammins is used as the basis for validating the computational model. The model settings are chosen based on work done by Crawford and then modified to better match the experimental data. The computational model and assumptions used are documented and suggestions for improved accuracy of CFD model are suggested before applying the CFD model to the WPAFB geometry to conduct preliminary studies of agent spread in the nacelle.
New urban agenda: sustainable development goals, urban mobility and healthy cities
Authors: Zhogoleva Anna , Maksimov Vladislav
Published: November 2024

The trends of modern urban planning are studied, namely two of its urban planning concepts - “Plan for Sustainable Urban Mobility” and “Healthy City”, their theoretical development within the framework of adopted documents, agendas and programs for sustainable development. The goals of sustainable development are studied, the achievement of which is devoted to the documents “New Urban Development Program” and the declaration “Agenda for Sustainable Development for the period up to 2030”. It is concluded that sustainable development considers the integration of goals in territorial planning, environmental protection and public health, achieving social and gender equality, housing policy, and transport development as the basis for unified urban planning.
Architecture of transit spaces
Authors: Rybacheva Olga , Lyapina Svetlana
Published: November 2024

The problem of modern cities is considered - the need to ensure efficient and comfortable movement of people and goods. With the development of transport, the issue of maintaining an attractive pedestrian environment arises. The concept of “architecture of transit spaces” and the role of transit routes in the planning structure of the city are revealed, and their diversity is examined. These spaces include various elements of urban infrastructure, pedestrian streets, boulevards, squares, underground passages, passages that provide connections between different parts of the city. The study identified four main groups of transit spaces: streets, bridges, covered walkways and temporary structures. Using the example of real objects, factors influencing the formation of transit routes, their scale and geometry, functional content and, as a result, the architecture itself are studied.
Veterinary clinics and animal shelters in the planning structure of cities. Experience of different countries
Authors: Akhmedova Elena , Zaitseva Sofia
Published: November 2024

The features of the placement of veterinary clinics and animal shelters in the planning structure of cities in different countries and various methods of spatial organization of veterinary space in their implemented design practice are considered.
A set of pre-design exercises to stimulate imaginative thinking
Authors: Orlova Natalya , Orlov Dmitry
Published: November 2024

One of the author's pedagogical methods is presented that stimulates creative and imaginative thinking among students studying in architectural fields. The method consists of a set of sequential pre-design exercises that help to form a figurative, emotional and symbolic understanding of the design site, the context of the place in a broad sense, and the object itself. Exercises include work on the verbal, semiotic, visual and plastic levels. The complex can be considered as the basis for the development of individual teaching methods and practical work in similar areas of creative activity.
Paradigm change in architectural education
Authors: Teryagova Alexandra
Published: November 2024

Reflections on the topic of paradigm shifts in architectural education. The dependence of various trends in obtaining the profession of an architect on philosophical, socio-political and mental factors. Understanding the coexistence of bio-techno-sociocentric trends in modern architectural education taking place against the backdrop of active digitalization.
HOUSEHOLD BELIEFS OF UKRAINIANS IN THE 20TH CENTURY ON THE EXAMPLE OF HEALERS
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Danylevych Alisa
Published: November 2024

Background. The relevance of the research of the article lies in the fact that everyday beliefs and practices of Ukrainian healers are an important component of Ukrainian culture and traditional medicine. Household beliefs reflect the cultural and historical aspects of a society and the methods by which people understood the world around them and interacted with it in their daily lives. Methods. The article uses general scientific methods - historical, cultural, sociological and systemic approach, which made it possible to carry out a comprehensive analysis and assessment of the historical context of the given topic. The combination of these research methods made it possible to obtain a comprehensive understanding of everyday beliefs of Ukrainian healers and their role in modern society. The results of the study of everyday beliefs of Ukrainian healers showed that this practice has deep roots in Ukrainian culture and traditions. The study also showed that the everyday beliefs of Ukrainian healers of the 20th century are often combined with Christian traditions, which indicates the syncretic nature of this practice. Healers use prayers, icons, and other Christian symbols along with their own rituals and ceremonies. Conclusions. The household beliefs of Ukrainian healers reflect deep cultural and historical connections, and also reflect people's need for spiritual and energetic healing. These beliefs play an important role in the life of modern Ukrainian society, helping people to find support and treatment in traditional methods. Research can make a significant contribution to the maintenance and preservation of traditional healing methods that are passed down from generation to generation. Studying this topic will allow a better understanding of the methods of treatment and health support used in Ukrainian society.
GRAVITATIONAL MICROLENSING OF RING-LIKE SOURCES
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, ZHDANOV Valery
Published: November 2024

Background. Ring-like structures may appear in some images of accretion disks around relativistic compact objects, which represent a possible alternative to conventional black holes. We present a qualitative treatment of photometric microlensing effects in case of such structures. Methods. Amplification curves are constructed for simple models of a thin accretion disk which is the source in the gravitational lens system. Two models of a source consisting of two unconnected regions are considered: (i) a circular area in the center and a ring, (ii) two rings with comparable integral brightness. We use the linear caustic approximation. The graphs show amplification curves giving the increase of the microlensed radiation flux when the caustic moves in the direction of its “tail” (the region, where there is an amplification). We first considered microlensing of a single ring. The simulation was carried out for a number of radii and thicknesses of the ring, observed in full face. Results. As expected, when the caustic is far from the source and its tail covers the source, the amplification is approximately the same as in the case of a point source. Then, when the caustic approaches the left side of the ring, the graph reaches a maximum, which is sharper, the smaller the thickness of the ring. Thereafter, the total amplification decreases relatively slowly. When the caustic approaches the right side of the ring, there is a sharp drop almost to zero over a small interval of the order of the ring thickness. In the case of two rings the amplification curve can be obtained by a superposition of different elements, yielding a graph with two maxima, the height of which depends on the contribution of the components, and two “knees”. The latter circumstance distinguishes the case of two rings from that with one ring and a region in the center. Conclusions. We summarize that in the presence of ring regions, characteristic features of the light curves appear, which can serve as an indication of the possible existence of these regions. However, different models can give quite similar light curves, and additional independent data are needed to unambiguously identify the source.
Criteria for observing hydrogen tunneling in metals
Authors:   M. N. Mikheev Institute of Metal Physics, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Vykhodets V. B. , Kurennykh T. E. ,   M. N. Mikheev Institute of Metal Physics, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: November 2024

Based on the analysis of the results of theoretical and experimental research, this study develops criteria that metals must meet for it to be possible to observe hydrogen tunneling in metals, as well as methods for measuring quantum diffusion coefficients. Firstly, the distance between the nearest equilibrium positions of hydrogen atoms in the metal lattice must be small enough, about 0.15 nm. Secondly, the Debye temperature of the metal must be low enough, below 350 K. Thirdly, the necessary condition for observing hydrogen tunneling is a correct choice of methods for measuring hydrogen diffusion coefficients. If the hydrogen diffusion coefficient according to the classical migration mechanism is about 10–11 m2/s or higher in the Debye temperature range, it is expedient to use indirect methods based on the Gorsky effect or on measuring the spin lattice relaxation rate via nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). At lower values of the classical diffusion coefficient in the Debye temperature range of metals, to observe quantum diffusion, it is necessary to use the technique of direct online nuclear reaction analysis (NRAOL) alone or in combination with nuclear reaction analysis (NRA).
An equivalent model for micromagnetic simulation of the magnetization of ferrimagnetic structures
Authors:   M. N. Mikheev Institute of Metal Physics, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Batalov S. V. , Bessonov V. D. ,   M. N. Mikheev Institute of Metal Physics, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Teplov V. S. ,   M. N. Mikheev Institute of Metal Physics, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Telegin A. V. ,   M. N. Mikheev Institute of Metal Physics, Ural Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: November 2024

A model for micromagnetic simulation of the magnetization of a ferrimagnetic film consisting of an alloy of ferromagnetic and rare-earth metals is proposed and discussed. It is shown that the model qualitatively replicates the experimentally observed temperature dependencies of the saturation magnetization of various ferrimagnetic alloys for different percentages of the rare-earth element and that it exhibits a similar magnetic hysteresis loop. The results of the study are of interest for the theoretical analysis of the magnetization behavior of ferromagnetic–heavy-metal film nanostructures, as well as for solving problems of applied materials science and magnetism.
Treatment of vitiligo in children
Authors: Kadanina Kseniia K. , Kruchkova Kira Y. , Lomonosov Konstantin M.
Published: November 2024

Vitiligo is an idiopathic disease of skin hypopigmentation that affects between 0.2% and 8% of the world's population. In half of the cases, this hypomelanosis manifests in young adolescence and childhood and can lead to profound psychological trauma and deterioration of the quality of life of both the child and his/her parents. Patients with vitiligo experience shame, anxiety and even depression, leading to low self-esteem and social isolation. Negative experience can affect not only childhood development, but also the further adult life of the patient, in this regard, the actual problem is the selection of effective and safe therapy in this cohort of patients. In the arsenal of doctors there are many therapeutic and surgical methods used in the treatment of this disease. However, not all therapies can be used in paediatric patients, which creates a challenge for paediatric dermatologists.
This review presents current, effective, and safe treatments for vitiligo in paediatric patients. Thus, external calcineurin inhibitors are first-line therapy, especially in children with stable vitiligo and limited lesions on the face, neck and body folds with thin skin. External glucocorticoid agents are recommended for moderate activity. Topical Janus kinase inhibitors provide the best results in the facial area. Demonstrated their effectiveness in achieving repigmentation in children with widespread and progressive vitiligo UVB-311 nm therapy, therapy with ultraviolet excimer light, PUVA-therapy (psoralen together with long-wave ultraviolet skin irradiation). Therapy with systemic corticosteroids can stop the progression of the disease and stimulate the repigmentation process. Surgical treatment (transplantation of melanocytes from healthy skin foci to depigmented foci) is rarely used in children. Cosmetic agents (camouflage) are used as symptomatic treatment, and psychological support is used as cognitive therapy.
Childhood vitiligo should be detected early to improve treatment outcomes and prognosis. Early detection of new exacerbations will allow rapid therapeutic intervention to prevent widespread spread of the disease.
A case of severe folliculitis decalvans
Authors: Teplyuk Natalia P. , Pinegin Vladimir B. , Varshavsky Vladimir A. , Brezhneva Anna A.
Published: November 2024

Folliculitis decalvans is a difficult to treat rare neutrophilic dermatosis that affects the scalp and leads to permanent scarring. The pathogenesis is currently not well understood; the influence of Staphylococcus aureus antigens, a disorder of the skin microbiome, a defect in cell-mediated immunity, and an imbalance of pro-inflammatory cytokines are assumed. This disease is often associated with a marked decrease in quality of life, because in addition to significant external manifestations, the patient may experience pain, itching and burning in the areas of the rash. The main problem is that there is currently no effective therapy for this disease. Treatment options include systemic antibiotics, topical and intralesional corticosteroids, dapsone, isotretinoin, biologics, and photodynamic therapy. Administration of radiation therapy, adipose tissue transplantation, use of excimer laser, and intravenous injections of human immunoglobulin have also been reported.
Decalving folliculitis is a disease that requires the earliest possible diagnosis, as its outcome is persistent scarring atrophy of the hair follicle, marked discomfort of the patient, constant sensation of soreness and burning. It is necessary to use the most effective therapy, change the treatment strategy if the disease continues to progress.
We present a brief overview of the main methods of therapy and a clinical case of a long course of severe folliculitis decalvans, refractory to the main methods of treatment.
Role of innate immune receptors in the psoriasis development
Authors: Svitich Oxana A. , Yazkova Olga S. , Bystritskaya Elizaveta P. , Olisova Olga Y.
Published: November 2024

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated autoimmune inflammatory skin disease with a prevalence of 2 to 3% worldwide. In the psoriasis development and pathogenesis an important role is played by disorders in the immune system. Disruption of the innate and adaptive immune response mechanisms with the involvement of keratinocytes leads to the initiation and maintenance of inflammation.
Immune reactions are activated in the skin, in which various cells participate (macrophages, dendritic cells, mast cells, innate immune lymphoid cells, melanocytes, keratinocytes, Langerhans cells and γδT cells; T and B cells; epithelial endothelial and stromal cells of the skin), each of which expresses pattern recognition receptors that respond to pathogens and cell damage itself. Many of these receptors, in particular toll-like receptors and NOD-like receptors play an important role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. The associated innate receptors signaling cascades that activate in the skin cells may become potential targets for the treatment of this disease.
To date, there are several approved drugs for biological therapy of psoriasis.
The study of the role of the innate immune cells receptors in inflammatory skin pathologies requires further exploration and new developments.
Comparative histological assessment of the effect of retinol palmitate preparations on aging skin
Authors: Kostyaeva Margarita G. , Dolnikova Olga А. , Petrova Stanislava Y. , Nozdrin Konstantin V. , Ziganshin Oleg R.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: Most often, the natural form of vitamin A (retinol palmitate) is used to prevent skin aging. There are two topical preparations in the form of ointment on the Russian market that contain a high concentration of retinol palmitate, including in combination with cholecalciferol and tocopherol acetate. The specific effects of these drugs on the structure of aging skin have not yet been fully studied.
AIM: Comparative histological assessment of the effect of topical preparations in the form of ointment containing retinol palmitate on the epidermis and dermis of women aged 40–55 years.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The clinical study included 18 women aged 40 to 55 years old. Group 1 included 6 women who used retinol palmitate ointment 2 times a day on the skin of the face. Group 2 consisted of 6 women who used the dermatoprotective agent 2 times a day on the skin of the face which, in addition to retinol palmitate, includes cholecalciferol and α-tocopherol acetate. Group 3 consisted of 6 women and was an intact comparison group. The observation period is 90 days. Patients underwent a punch biopsy with histological examination of the skin before and after the observation period.
RESULTS: According to the results of the study, it was revealed that ointments with a high concentration of retinol palmitate have a stimulating effect on the proliferation of keratinocytes of the epidermis, which manifested itself in an in increasing the number of rows of cells of the prickly layer. In addition, under the action of these drugs, the synthetic activity of keratinocytes of the granular layer increases, which contributes to the proper formation of the stratum corneum of the epidermis. The use of ointments leads to a significant increase in the thickness of both the granular and prickly layers of the epidermis and the dermis.
CONCLUSION: Ointments with a high concentration of retinol palmitate improve the structure of aging skin.
Clinical observations of skin Kaposi’s sarcoma
Authors: Teplyuk Natalia P. , Grabovskaya Olga V. , Shepeleva Anastasia V. , Kayumova Lyailya N. , Alferova Sofia V.
Published: November 2024

Kaposi's sarcoma is an angioproliferative disease of endothelial origin associated with human herpes virus-8 (HHV-8), or Kaposi's sarcoma herpesvirus. The disease was first described in 1872 by Moritz Kaposi as a pigmented cutaneous sarcoma localized on the lower extremities.
The disease is considered quite rare, but at present there is an increase in the incidence worldwide, due to which there is a growing interest in this problem. Today, it remains the leading skin pathology among HIV-positive patients, occurring in 20%. However, the assessment of the pathological process can be difficult, and the diagnosis may not be made at all, due to atypical clinical manifestations (especially in HIV-negative patients), so the problem of Kaposi's sarcoma diagnostics remains relevant for doctors of any specialty, especially dermatovenerologists and oncologists.
Kaposi's sarcoma can affect almost any organ, including the skin. The most common localization is on the skin of the extremities and face. Clinical manifestations are rashes in the form of spots, nodules, plaques, nodes. Kaposi's sarcoma is classified according to clinical and epidemiological forms: classical, endemic, epidemic and iatrogenic. Recently, a fifth form has been described, called non-epidemic Kaposi's sarcoma, which is observed in HIV-negative men who have sex with other men.
The persistence of HHV-8 alone in the human body is not sufficient for Kaposi's sarcoma to occur, as the development of the disease is dependent on immunosuppressive conditions such as HIV infection, cytostatic drugs, and chronic systemic inflammatory diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis). The interaction between human immune dysfunction and the local inflammatory response to herpesvirus creates a favourable environment for the onset and progression of the disease.
These clinical cases demonstrate an atypical clinical course of Kaposi's sarcoma of the skin with the absence of HIV-1, HIV-2 and HHV-8 in the blood of the presented patients.
Imaging the Northern Los Angeles Basins with Autocorrelations
Authors: Zou Caifeng , Clayton Robert W.
Published: November 2024

We show reflectivity cross sections for the San Gabriel, Chino, and San Bernardino basins north of Los Angeles (LA), California, determined from autocorrelations of ambient noise and teleseismic earthquake waves. These basins are thought to channel the seismic energy from earthquakes on the San Andreas fault to LA, and a more accurate model of their depth is important for hazard mitigation. We use the causal side of the autocorrelation function (ACF) to determine the zero-offset reflection response. To minimize the smoothing effect of the source time function, we remove the common mode from the autocorrelation to reveal the zero-offset reflection response. We apply this to 10 temporary nodal lines consisting of a total of 758 geophones with an intraline spacing of 250–300 m. We also show that the ACF from teleseismic events can provide illumination on the subsurface that is consistent with ambient noise. Both autocorrelation results compare favorably to receiver functions.
Deformation Mechanism in Central China Revealed by Regional Earthquake Tomography
Authors: Hua Yujin , Zhang Shuangxi , Liu Yu , Liu Li , Wu Tengfei , Wei Yu , Li Bin
Published: November 2024

The central China region (CCN) has experienced significant deformation and complex structural arrangements. We conducted research on the deformation pattern of the CCN through the 3D velocity structure of the crust and uppermost mantle obtained via body-wave tomography. This velocity structure strongly correlates with the region’s topographic features. The relationship between velocity distributions and topography indicates that compression in the east–west direction, which can lead to crustal and mantle shortening, may play a crucial role in shaping topography. The various structures between the Qinling mountain range in the west and the Tongbai–Dabie mountain range in the east highlight distinct geological processes occurring along the Qinling–Dabie orogenic belt. In addition, we propose that reservoir water has infiltrated the crystalline basement rock layer up to 15–20 km beneath the Three Gorges Reservoir. Furthermore, the Three Gorges Dam serves as a solid foundation to prevent reservoir water from seeping downstream underground.
Show Her the Money
Authors: Koba Timothy , Evans Kelly
Published: November 2024

Female-founded businesses struggle to attract private investment but seem to attract more within the sport industry. The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine this discrepancy and determine what factors contribute to private funding of female-owned sport businesses. This study examined 440 female-founded sport-related businesses with a founding date between 2010-2020 from the Crunchbase database. There was $2.21 billion invested into 207 female-founded sport companies during the identified period. Using multiple logistic regression and signaling theory, results of the study suggest that female founders in sport should focus capital acquisition efforts on revenue-generating business models and successfully pitching investors, as this leads to greater funding. Social network analysis indicates that the investing environment for female sport businesses is loosely connected with a potential role for start-up accelerators. This study helps to further understand the investment environment surrounding women-owned businesses in sport.
Attitudes toward and medical decisions on uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis among young Ghanaians: A quasi-experimental one group study
Authors: Owusu Adobea , Moore Ami , Ta Anh , Alexis Curlin
Published: November 2024

This study examined attitudes toward pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and medical decision making about PrEP uptake among educated young Ghanaians in Lower Manya Krobo Municipality (LMKM) to prevent HIV/AIDS. Lower Manya Krobo Municipality has a history of high HIV infection. There is paucity of studies on attitudes towards and medical decisions on PrEP among Ghanaians. PrEP is currently not approved in Ghana and West Africa generally. Efforts are, however, being made to study the possible use of the intervention in Ghana, against a background of generalized HIV infection, and increasing infection among the youth. We used primary data administered through mostly closed-ended questionnaires to 261 respondents. A quasi-experimental one group study was adopted. Respondents were asked the same questions on attitudes towards and medical decisions on PrEP before and after watching a six-minute YouTube video on PrEP. ANOVA was used to examine statistical significance between the paired, pre-and-post data. The Wilcoxon signed rank test helped with conclusions about the mean difference between the paired responses. The findings corroborated with previous literature regarding high sexual risk among the young people. There was a statistically significant effect of the video on attitudes and medical decisions regarding use of PrEP. It seemed that if PrEP were available, the study participants would uptake it to proactively protect themselves from HIV infection. They also had a higher inclination of using PrEP if a medical officer recommended its use, and its side effects were minimal. Statistically significant gendered differences showed that female respondents were less concerned about being stigmatized as having HIV if they took PrEP and were also more likely to respond favorably to the recommendation of a physician to use the intervention, compared to their male counterparts. Public education on PrEP use should consider the involvement of a medical figure.
COVID Post-Infection Therapy: A Survey of Methods and Mechanisms
Authors: Zito Richard
Published: November 2024

There has been a significant reduction in the number of COVID cases world-wide since the pandemic peaked in 2022. However, new strains have developed in the two years following the peak that are significantly different genetically from their predecessors. This, combined with public apathy concerning vaccination and other preventative measures, has led to periodic outbreaks. The problem has been particularly troublesome in the U.S. So, what options are available to an individual who has developed a breakthrough infection, or has become COVID-19 positive due to negligence? This publication covers the mechanisms and side effects of COVID antiviral and anti-inflammatory drugs, interleukins, interferons, and monoclonal antibodies. The chemistry of these diverse therapeutic agents is complex, but their pharmacology, biochemistry, and even their molecular structures, are often related. These relationships will be explained, and the associated terminology demystified.
Effects of a low protein soybean meal diet with and without Spirulina platensis freshwater microalgae on antioxidant systems in broiler liver and muscle tissue
Authors: Bottje Walter
Published: November 2024

With increased demand for soybean meal to feed poultry and livestock, feeding diets with lower crude protein can reduce expense and lower nitrogen waste. Thus, the major objective of this study was to determine the effect of feeding a low crude protein (LCP) soybean diet and one in which half of the LCP soybean meal was replaced with Sprirullina platensis microalgae (LCP+AL) on antioxidant redox systems in liver and muscle tissue. Ross 708 male broilers were reared in floor pens and provided access to feed and water ad libitum. From day 1 - 14, all birds were provided a standard commercial corn soy-based starter diet. From d 15 - 37, the birds were divided into three groups (5 pens per diet; 12 birds/pen) and provided one of three grower pelleted diets: 1) A standard corn/soybean meal diet (21% crude protein, 3250 kcal/kg) (Positive control, CON), 2) a negative control with lower crude protein (17%) (LCP), and 3) the LCP diet in which Spirulina platensis meal was used to replace half of the soybean meal (LCP+AL). At the end of the study, 2 birds per pen (10 birds total per treatment) were randomly selected and humanely euthanized, after which liver and breast muscle samples were obtained and flash frozen in liquid nitrogen. The tissues were analyzed for antioxidant mRNA expression, antioxidant enzyme activity, and levels of reduced and oxidized glutathione (GSH and GSSG, respectively). In the liver, mRNA expression of 7 of 8 antioxidant enzymes analyzed were elevated (P<0.05) in the LCP+AL group compared to CON mRNA expression. However, activities of these enzymes were higher in the CON compared to the LCP+AL group. Both mRNA and enzyme activity values were intermediate for compared to the CON and LCP-AL groups. Hepatic concentrations of GSH, GSSG and thiobarbituric reactive substance (TBARS) were lower in the LCP group compared to CON and LCP+AL groups. In breast muscle, tissue mRNA expression of gamma glutamyl cysteine lyase (GCL), and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) were lower (P<0.05), while GSH peroxidase 3 (GPx3), GSH Reductase (GRd), thioredoxin (TrxR) and GSH levels were higher (P< 0.05) in the LCP+AL compared to CON. Both GSH and GSSG levels were elevated in the LCP+AL group. The results of this study appear to paint a picture of increased antioxidant mRNA expression but decreased enzyme activity in the liver of the LCP+AL group compared to CON. Interestingly, reduced GSH levels in the LCP+AL group in breast muscle were twice as high as the CON and LCP group that could provide considerable protection against thiolation of proteins and other structures in the cell.
Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction in COPD: Current Evidence and Future Directions
Authors: Bahgat Joseph , Kaur Antarpreet , Magge Anil
Published: November 2024

Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction has emerged as a promising intervention for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease who remain symptomatic despite optimal medical management. This literature review evaluates the efficacy, safety, and patient selection criteria for bronchoscopic lung volume reduction, focusing on its role in improving lung function, exercise capacity, and quality of life. Techniques such as endobronchial valves, coils, and bronchoscopic thermal vapor ablation offer less invasive alternatives to surgical lung volume reduction by targeting diseased lung regions to reduce hyperinflation. Key clinical trials, including VENT, LIBERATE, and EMPROVE, indicate that bronchoscopic lung volume reduction can provide significant benefits for carefully selected patients, particularly those with heterogeneous emphysema and low collateral ventilation. The VENT trial demonstrated notable improvements in lung function and quality of life, while the LIBERATE trial highlighted the efficacy of endobronchial valves in reducing lung volume and improving exercise capacity. However, the procedure is associated with risks, including pneumothorax, exacerbations, and respiratory infections. Optimal patient selection is crucial, with the greatest benefits observed in patients with upper-lobe predominant emphysema and significant hyperinflation. Pre-procedural evaluation includes high-resolution computed tomography and functional imaging to assess emphysema distribution, identify target lobes, and detect the presence of collateral ventilation. Despite the advantages, long-term efficacy and safety profile require further investigation through larger and more diverse patient populations. This review addresses the clinical implications, emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach to patient selection and management. Future research should focus on refining patient selection criteria, improving procedural techniques, and assessing long-term outcomes to establish standardized protocols and confirm the sustained benefits of bronchoscopic lung volume reduction. Additionally, completing fissures with thoracoscopic surgery to broaden the applicability of bronchoscopic lung volume reduction is an emerging area of research.
Metacognitive therapy for bipolar disorder - A clinical case report from Denmark
Authors: pia Callesen
Published: November 2024

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a serious mental illness that has a high mortality rate and a significant impact on quality of life (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). When including all types of bipolar disorders, the lifelong prevalence rate can reach 7.8% (Özdel et al., 2021) and is defined by a markedly unbalanced fluctuation in mood, activity levels, and self-perception (Bebbington & Ramana, 1995). BD is characterised by a person experiencing altering episodic emotional states ranging from elevated mood or mania to lower mood or depression. The condition manifests in cycles or episodes and is typically regarded as chronic. Although manic and depressive episodes are usually included, mixed episodes can also occasionally happen (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has been the most researched psychological treatment for bipolar disorder (BD II) (Newman et al., 2002). However, research indicates that CBT recovery rates frequently lead to small to moderate effect sizes (Szentagotai & David, 2010). Furthermore, a recent meta-analysis by Chiang et al. (2017) emphasizes the advantages of combining medication and CBT improves recovery rates and lowering relapse rates, especially for BD I. However, modest to moderate effect sizes were also routinely seen in these studies. Consequently, in order to improve treatment outcomes and lower recurrence rates in this patient population, it is necessary to investigate an alternative and more efficient treatment approach to BD.
Lessons from India's Experience Managing the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Gowda M. V.
Published: November 2024

The Indian government's official narrative on its response to the COVID-19 pandemic paints a picture of commendable crisis management and effective governance, lauded globally. This narrative ignores the flawed dimensions of the government’s coping strategies which resulted in severe hardships to millions of Indians and a massive undercounting of COVID-19-related deaths. By March 2022, the government credited a fivefold strategy of test-track-treat-vaccinate and COVID-appropriate behavioural changes, facilitated by a “whole-of-government” and “whole-of-society” approach for its successful response to managing this “once in century” public health crisis. While aspects of these strategies were perhaps successful at later stages, the government’s delayed response disproportionately affected vulnerable populations, including migrant workers, who faced immense challenges due to the sudden lockdown and lack of institutional support to return to their native villages. The economic impact on the country was immense. Except for agriculture, there was a significant downturn in economic activities, despite efforts from the government to create special fiscal packages to revive the economy. Hubris and triumphalism after the first wave of COVID-19 resulted in inaction with respect to preparations for the second wave, with devastating consequences. Based on an extensive desk review, this article critically analyses the Indian government’s COVID-19 response strategy to identify successes and failures in managing the pandemic. It highlights the ground realities of the fivefold strategy, such as early inaction, ignoring science, the unplanned lockdown that triggered one of independent India’s worst humanitarian crises, and the ad hoc rollout of the world’s largest vaccination drive. The article draws lessons to inform policy recommendations for future pandemic preparedness and resilience.