bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trabalho indecente e pandemia: o caso JBS Aves em Passo Fundo
Authors: Lobo Tatiani de Azevedo
Published: January 2025

A pandemia da COVID-19, doença com alto grau de contágio, chegou ao Brasil em fevereiro de 2020 e gerou uma série de medidas de distanciamento social. A presente pesquisa trata especificamente das repercussões do contágio de trabalhadores em ambiente insalubre de frigorífico, sob a perspectiva do conceito da Organização Internacional do Trabalho (OIT), de “trabalho decente”, no aumento do número de infectados na população total, realizando o estudo do caso da JBS Aves na cidade de Passo Fundo, localizada no interior do Rio Grande do Sul. Para tanto, utilizou-se o método dedutivo aliado às técnicas de pesquisa bibliográfica, pela exploração histórico-legislativa, doutrinária acerca do tema, bem como pela análise da Ação Civil Pública proposta pelo Ministério Público do Trabalho contra o frigorífico. Ao final, através do método proposto, foi possível demonstrar que as características de expansão da COVID-19 auxiliaram na divisão democrática das consequências de um trabalho executado com clara violação à dignidade humana do trabalhador.
A população negra em situação de rua e a Covid-19: vidas negras importam?
Authors: Cassal Milena Cassal , Fernandes Talita
Published: January 2025

Este artigo discute a relação entre a pandemia de Covid-19 e o fortalecimento práticas necropolíticas relacionadas à população em situação de rua, especificamente a população negra, sob a perspectiva da saúde. Enquanto pesquisadoras, sendo uma trabalhadora e outra militante das questões relativas a pessoas com trajetória de rua, apontamos questionamentos e reflexões motivadas pela emergência de atenção e cuidados específicos para essa população no contexto atual, além de tensionar as posturas do poder público, que apontam para um extermínio desses sujeitos a partir de sua omissão quanto a tais cuidados.
Évaluation de l’implantation initiale d’un programme d’approche sensible aux traumas en classes spéciales
Authors: Ross Joseph , Desbiens Nadia
Published: January 2025

La proportion d’élèves présentant des troubles émotionnels et comportementaux et ayant vécu des événements traumatiques est élevée. Un programme d’intervention d’approche sensible aux traumas visant à mieux répondre aux besoins de ces élèves scolarisés dans des classes spéciales à travers un changement de pratiques a été implanté dans trois écoles. L’évaluation de l’implantation à partir de l’analyse des propos des membres de l’équipe-école et l’identification des obstacles et des facilitateurs ont permis de mieux comprendre les facteurs d’influence. Les résultats des questionnaires et de l’analyse thématique d’un entretien de groupe indiquent, entre autres, que répondre aux besoins des élèves est complexe. De plus, ils révèlent l’importance de la conception du programme comme référent, du travail d’équipe et du développement de compétences sociales et émotionnelles chez les adultes. Ces résultats permettent de formuler des recommandations quant aux stratégies d’implantation sélectionnées.
Cortical Encoding of Spatial Structure and Semantic Content in 3D Natural Scenes
Authors: Mononen Riikka , Saarela Toni , Vallinoja Jaakko , Olkkonen Maria , Henriksson Linda
Published: January 2025

Our visual system enables us to effortlessly navigate and recognize real-world visual environments. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies suggest a network of scene-responsive cortical visual areas, but much less is known about the temporal order in which different scene properties are analyzed by the human visual system. In this study, we selected a set of 36 full-color natural scenes that varied in spatial structure and semantic content that our male and female human participants viewed both in 2D and 3D while we recorded magnetoencephalography (MEG) data. MEG enables tracking of cortical activity in humans at millisecond timescale. We compared the representational geometry in the MEG responses with predictions based on the scene stimuli using the representational similarity analysis framework. The representational structure first reflected the spatial structure in the scenes in time window 90–125 ms, followed by the semantic content in time window 140–175 ms after stimulus onset. The 3D stereoscopic viewing of the scenes affected the responses relatively late, from ∼140 ms from stimulus onset. Taken together, our results indicate that the human visual system rapidly encodes a scene's spatial structure and suggest that this information is based on monocular instead of binocular depth cues.
Sexual hygiene: Is it time for a renewed focus for HIV/STI prevention?
Authors: Timmons-Vendryes Richard , Swendeman Dallas , Asca Jesus Cisneros , Cáceres Carlos , Comulada Warren Scott , Bazargan-Hejazi Shahrzad , Silva-Santisteban Alfonso
Published: January 2025

Condomless anal intercourse is recognized as the primary transmission route for most human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemics. However, considering the recent advancements in a range of biomedical strategies, voluntary medical circumcision, and the improved knowledge of behavioral preventative methods, using all forms of condomless anal intercourse indiscriminately does not expose the true complexity of sexual risk. Recognizing the potential of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), antiretroviral therapy (ART), and Undetectable equals Untransmittable (U=U), increasing the accessibility and acceptance of these options have shown to be critical for HIV/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) prevention. Despite proven HIV/AIDS protection, these recent advances may be accompanied by sexual behavioral changes that lead to increases in other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), specifically Neisseria gonorrhea/Chlamydia trachomatis (NG/CT), and syphilis. Regardless of this possible trend, key communities at higher risk are not benefiting equally from condoms, PrEP, PEP, ART, or U=U. Collectively, sexual hygiene-based practices may have renewed importance in HIV/STI risk reduction. Yet, there is limited research evaluating the usability and clinical outcomes associated with sexual practices of lubrication, genital cleansing, postcoital urination, and rectal douching (enema use). Promoting these practices’ potential benefits, risks, and safest techniques nevertheless show promise to reduce STI risk and their sequelae. Although the safety and efficacy of some hygiene-based practices are relatively known, literature is lacking on how populations understand and use these practices and the potential interventions that could promote accurate information about them. This article primarily presents a narrative review of the prevalence, safety, and efficacy of common hygiene-based practices. We also briefly highlight the potential acceptability and feasibility of interventions in Peru that leverage mobile technologies. We conclude with future research directions within the context of PrEP, PEP, doxycycline as doxy-PEP, ART, U=U, and Peruvian communities where access to these methods may be limited. Please refer to Supplementary Materials for a full text Spanish version of this article.
The Impact of the Adjustment Concept on the Benchmarks' Height Accuracy
Authors: Bukač Blaženka , Razumović Ivan , Rožić Nevio
Published: January 2025

National height reference coordinate systems are based on levelling networks classified into orders, according to their accuracy. Traditionally, height systems are realized by applying the parametric adjustment and the least squares method. Any kind of correlation between the observations as well as the correlation of fixed heights is often neglected for pragmatical reasons. Also, given heights are usually assumed error-free when in reality they possess a certain level of accuracy. This paper presents an alternative realisation of the height reference system HVRS71 for the Republic of Croatia. Data scope is limited to the 1st and the 2nd order levelling networks. Alternative realisation is carried out by applying different adjustment concept where the correlations between the observations caused by the introduction of correlated given heights are considered. Also, this methodology enables the transfer of the accuracy of benchmarks’ absolute heights from the higher-order levelling network to the accuracy of the benchmarks’ absolute heights of lower-order levelling networks. Thus, an objective, logical and real distribution of the benchmarks’ height accuracy along the scope of the height reference system is achieved. The results specify to what extent the change in the concept of the levelling network adjustment affects the quality of the height reference system.
The Relationship Between Wrist Flexibility and Arm Muscle Strength with the Accuracy and Speed of Smash for Badminton Athletes Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI)
Authors: Ardianto Rifki Purnama  , Yopi Kusdinar  , Kardjono Kardjono  , Mulyana
Published: January 2025

This study aims to analyze the relationship between wrist flexibility and arm muscle strength with smash accuracy and speed in badminton athletes of Universitas Pendidikan Indonesia (UPI). In this study using descriptive methods with correlational techniques and the sample in this study amounted to 12 UPI Badminton UKM athletes.. Descriptive statistics show the average wrist flexibility of 99.16, arm muscle strength of 5.01, smash accuracy of 4.25, and smash speed of 103.83. The normality test results showed that the data were normally distributed (p> 0.05). Pearson correlation analysis showed a significant positive relationship between wrist flexibility and smash accuracy (r = 0.640, p = 0.025) and smash speed (r = 0.662, p = 0.019). Similarly, arm muscle strength was significantly associated with accuracy (r = 0.587, p = 0.045) and smash speed (r = 0.720, p = 0.008). However, the regression analysis results showed that these two variables together did not have a significant effect on smash accuracy (p = 0.081) but were significant on smash speed (p = 0.030). The results of this study underscore the importance of wrist flexibility and arm muscle strength in supporting smash performance, both in terms of accuracy and speed. Training that focuses on improving flexibility and arm muscle strength is recommended to help athletes improve the quality of their smashes, while still considering aspects of technique and coordination.
Distributed constraint optimization for discrete-time multiagent systems with event-triggered communication
Authors: Gu Mingxia , Yu Zhiyong , Jiang Haijun
Published: January 2025

This paper investigates the distributed optimization problem (DOP) with equality constraint in discrete-time multiagent systems (MASs) in which the global optimization objective is constituted by the summation of local objective functions. Firstly, by employing the Lagrange multiplier method, we convert the convex optimization problem with equality constraint into a consensus problem of MASs. Secondly, to reduce the communication burden, a type of event-triggered control protocol is proposed to enable all agents achieving consensus. Thirdly, by employing the Lyapunov function method and a set of inequality techniques, we establish some sufficient conditions to ensure that all agents converge to consensus and successfully solve the original DOP. Finally, a numerical simulation example is presented to validate the effectiveness of the theoretical analysis.
IOON ONE MED Device Generates Singlet Hydrogen and Active Chlorine to Exhibit Antimicrobial Activity – an Experimental Study
Authors: Manuilov M.B. , Martynov A.V. , Sklyar N.I. , Minukhin V.V. , Biryukov M.S. , Manuilov A.M.
Published: January 2025

The aim of the study was to investigate the in vitro antimicrobial activity against museum and circulating strains of microorganisms and fungi of an aqueous solution generated by the IOON ONE MED device containing atomic hydrogen and atomic (active) chlorine at a concentration of 1 mg/L as active substances and in vivo on a standardized model of purulent peritonitis in two variants – prophylactic (neutralization of bacteria) and therapeutic (effect on advanced infection). Methods. Microbiological methods were used to study the antimicrobial activity of new substances in vitro on museum and circulating strains of microorganisms, as well as fungi. The ability of the generated solution to exhibit antibiofilm effects on intubation tubes infected with resistant microorganisms was studied separately. In vivo study of the efficacy of the generated solution on a model of purulent peritonitis in mice was also conducted in two ways – by using the solution as a prophylactic agent (mixing live bacteria with the solution and then immediately testing the ability of bacteria to induce peritonitis) and by therapeutic effect by injecting the solution 3 hours after infection of mice and determining the number of surviving mice. Results. The results showed that the solution produced by the device worked as well as 0.05 % chlorhexidine and 3 % hydrogen peroxide. From the in vivo studies, it can be concluded that the drug under investigation does not cause acute toxicity: the injection of 1 mL of the generated solution intraperitoneally did not lead to the death of any mice. It was found that mixing 1:1 of the solution generated by the IOON ONE MED device with a suspension of P. aeruginosa #2261 and subsequent intraperitoneal injection into mice ensured 100 % survival of animals compared to 100 % mortality in the control group. When the mice were injected with the intraperitoneal solution three hours after infection with a lethal dose of the resistant hospital strain of P. aeruginosa #2261, a 40 % survival rate was observed compared to 100% mortality in the control group. The difference between the control and experimental groups was statistically significant. Conclusions. The solution generated by the IOON ONE MED device, containing atomic hydrogen and atomic chlorine, when used in combination, has strong antiseptic properties and has promising application for surface disinfection, despite its short residence time in solution.
Combined Effects of TLR4 and HIF-1α with COX-2 Genes in Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma Associated with HPV Infection
Authors: Nama M.A. , Kraidi Q.A. , Ramadhan M.A.K.
Published: January 2025

Molecular techniques are used for the detection of HPV-related cervical cancer. An average of 48 million instances of cervical cancer are reported each year, 80 % of which occur in developing countries. Aim. To study the correlation of HPV16, HPV18, and HPV 31 genotypes with cervical cancer tissues, and their effects on the expression levels of TLR4, HIF-1α, and COX-2 genes in infected women. Methods. 35 samples were collected from women with cervical squamous cell carcinoma and 30 - from women with normal cervical tissues. Subsequently subjected to HPV genotyping and expression levels of TLR4 and HIF-1α with COX-2 genes were analyzed using a real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results. Molecular detection showed the presence of HPV16, HPV18, and HPV31 genotypes in tested samples. 25 (71.42%) of 35cases containing cervical carcinoma are associated with high-risk HPV, while the other 10 (28.57 %) are associated with low-risk HPV genotypes. The result showed elevation in the levels of gene expression 1.52, 48.0, and 28.8 fold in TLR4 and HIF-1α with COX-2, respectively, in positive HPV-tested cervical cancer samples compared to its values with the housekeeping gene (β actin) to 1 as control characterized by lower expression of target genes. Conclusions. The study indicates that TLR4 and HIF-1α with COX-2 genes are overexpressed in cervical squamous cell carcinoma linked to HPV, which has been reported in all diagnosed cases.
Bacterial Biofilms in Chronic Rhinosinusitis. Clinical Role and Current Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Zabolotna D.D. , Maliarenko Y.Y.
Published: January 2025

Biofilms, sophisticated microbial communities on both living and inert surfaces or in loose aggregates, present a formidable structure through an intercellular matrix. This configuration not only enables microbes to thrive under harsh conditions but also enhances their resistance against antimicrobial treatments. Emerging research underscores the pivotal role of biofilms in the progression and persistence of chronic infections, notably chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Historically, the significance of biofilms in CRS was underappreciated, but recent breakthroughs in detection techniques and molecular science have illuminated their substantial influence on this condition. This revelation has positioned the study of bacterial biofilms at the forefront of otolaryngology, especially in tackling stubborn cases of CRS. This paper delves into the latest insights on the clinical impact of biofilms in CRS, offering a comprehensive review of both existing and innovative treatment approaches aimed at eradicating biofilm-associated complications. Through this exploration, the paper aims to foster further research and development of effective strategies for combating biofilm-associated CRS among the scientific and medical community. In particular, attention is paid to alternative antimicrobial agents, such as bacteriophages, nanomaterials, and antimicrobial peptides. The perspective of applying anti-matrix and anti-adhesive methods is revealed. Also, as one of the promising directions for combating biofilms, methods of influence and disruption of cellular quorum sensing are presented.
Antimicrobial activity of Scutellaria L. plant extracts
Authors: Koval I. V. , Bielaieva Ya. V. , Liubinska A. V. , Koschhavko K. S. , Luchakivska Yu. S. , Sklyar T. V. , Lykholat T. Y. , Lykholat O. A. , Myslyvets D. V.
Published: January 2025

The work deals with the evaluating the antimicrobial activity of ethanolic extracts of different plant organs (roots, leaves, buds) of three species of Scutellaria genus: S. albida L., S. altissima L., S. baicalensis L., grown in M.M. Gryshko National Botanical Garden of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, against gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli and Serratia marcescens) and gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) microorganisms. Analysis of the effect of ethanolic extracts of juvenile Scutellaria plants on bacterial cultures showed that S. albida had the highest inhibitory potential, as it inhibited the growth of all bacterial test objects. S. creticola extracts effected both gram-positive bacteria and gram-negative Staphylococcus aureus. The extracts of S. altissima and S. baicalensis juvenile plants were characterized by their activity against two gram-positive test objects – Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The analysis of the antibacterial activity of ethanolic fractions of the extracts of Scutellaria individual organs showed that the highest inhibitory effect was demonstrated by the extracts of leaves and roots of S. baicalensis against Escherichia coli, the leaves and roots of S. albida against Staphylococcus aureus, and S. albida of against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The results confirmed the antimicrobial effect of different Scutellaria species, so that these plants could be used for the treatment of bacterial infections.
RESEARCH DATA ON THE PREVALENCE OF HEPATITIS C VIRUS ANTIBODIES AMONG INPATIENTS AT A HOSPITAL IN CENTRAL BULGARIA: 2021 – 2022
Authors: A. Gotseva  , E. Naseva
Published: January 2025

Introduction and purpose: Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection is a leading cause of chronic liver diseases including cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. There is insufficient data on the prevalence of HCV among hospitalized patients. Targeted testing for anti-HCV is an effective strategy for identifying asymptomatic infected individuals. The purpose of the present study was to present the results of screening for anti-HCV among inpatients at a hospital in Central Bulgaria.
Methods: A total of 3275 serum samples from 1968 men and 1307 women were tested for presence of anti-HCV at the Laboratory of Virology within the Multidisciplinary Hospital for Active Treatment (MHAT) “Uni Hospital” (Panagyurishte, Bulgaria) in the period 2021-2022. Serological analysis based on the ELFA method was performed using VIDAS Anti-HCV automated test (BioMerieux, France).
Results: Thirty-two of the tested patients (1.0%; 95% CI 0.6%-1.3%) were HCV positive. The difference between the numbers of the hospitalized (n=29) and the outpatients (n=3) was notable. The sex distribution shows that 53.1% were men and 46.9% were women. Their median age was 67 years (IQR 56-75), as the involvement of the age group 60-79 years (n=16) was predominant. A total of eight patients were diagnosed with hepatic cirrhosis, whereas three more patients had hepatocellular carcinoma.
Conclusions: We found a low level of the prevalence of anti-HCV (1%) among the patients of MHAT “Uni Hospital”, which is analogous to the level reported in the general population. We detected a higher incidence of HCV-positive serostatus among the older in comparison to younger age groups. Timely diagnosis and referrals to a gastroenterologist help to avoid progression of liver damage. All viremic patients (HCV RNA) require early access to modern antiviral therapy.
CONCEPTS ON ASYMPTOMATIC BACTERIAL VAGINOSIS
Authors: K. Telbiyska  , M. Angelova M. Angelova
Published: January 2025

Bacterial vaginosis is a state of imbalance of the vaginal microbiota with prevalence of anaerobes and a relative lactobacilli deficit. The main pathogens are Gardnerella vaginalis species of heterogeneous phenotypic characteristics and virulence, forming a bacterial polymicrobial biofilm on vaginal epithelial cells.
A symptomatic infection clinically manifested by a homogeneous grey-white vaginal discharge with a fishy smell by all means requires a treatment regimen.
The concepts on asymptomatic bacterial vaginosis have not reached a definite consensus regarding the fact whether treatment is required – the interpretation of its sexual transmission is ambivalent and it is unclear whether there are any differences in the pathogenesis and levels of complications between the two clinical manifestations of bacterial vaginosis.
An early therapeutic approach is available for asymptomatic pregnant women; however, it does not demonstrate a significant difference in the incidence of obstetric complications.
Fluctuations and transitoriness in vaginal microbiota composition, manifested by spontaneous transition to verified lack of infection destabilizes the view point that treatment is mandatory in asymptomatic non-pregnant women. Recommendations are available concerning preoperative regimens, prevention of gynaecological and obstetric complications aiming at prevention of sexual transmission and infection with other sexually transmitted diseases.
The treatment approaches to verified bacterial vaginosis involving combined standard and alternative regimens have shown unsatisfactory long-term results, and the evidence so far is insufficient to absolutely confirm or refute the usefulness of treating an asymptomatic infection.
EFFECT OF THE ADDITION OF AUTOLYZED BREWER`S YEAST IN THE DIET OF SOWS OF THE EAST BALKAN BREED ON SOME HAEMATOLOGICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL INDICATORS: PRELIMINARY RESULTS
Authors: N. Palova  , G. Yordanova  , R. Nedeva
Published: January 2025

The experiment was carried out with 10 sows reared at the SCA - Sredets. The pigs were divided into two groups: control (n=5) and experimental (n=5), equalized according to age and body weight. Each pig received 3 kg of feed per day comprising of barley and wheat in a ratio of 70:30%. Experimental pigs received additionally 3% autolyzed brewer's yeast per 100 kg of feed. A body weight and blood indicators were recorded at the beginning and the end of the trial. During the experimental period the body weights increased from 111,360 kg to 131,860 kg and from 111,280 kg to 135,740 kg, for the control and experimental group, respectively. In treated pigs, the values of CHOL and TRG decreased by 17.24% (P< 0.05). The inclusion of autolyzed brewer's yeast in the diet of sows had a positive effect on their weight development associated with a rising trend in body weight at the end of the trial. We speculate that this additive may improve the physical health of the animals by impacting their lipid metabolism, yet future investigations with a larger number of pigs can further clarify this question.
STUDY ON ANIMAL BONE MATERIAL EXCAVATED FROM AN ARCHEOLOGICAL SITE FROM THE EARLY CHALCOLITH AND THE LATE IRON AGE NEAR THE VILLAGE OF SREDETS, BULGARIA
Authors: D. Kostov  , D. Takorova  , P. Stoyanova  , H. Hristov  , D. Vladova
Published: January 2025

The aim of the present research was to perform an archaeozoological analysis of animal bone material obtained from excavations near the village of Sredets, Stara Zagora region, Bulgaria. The osteoarchaeological finding was species-determined by morphological methods. The osteological material contained an entire skeleton of a sacrificed horse and 1015 species-determined bones and bone fragments belonging to a total of nine species of mammals of domestic and wild origin.  The osteological finding from domestic mammals was predominant, amounting to 941 pieces of bones. The cattle bones took up a leading position of the total number of identified bones – 49,80% from the Early Chalcolithic Age and 58,14% from the Late Iron Age. The greater part comprised food remains from ancient inhabitants, indicated by the strong fragmentation of the animal bones, and traces of a mechanical impact as a result of an interaction with hard objects (portioning), as well as traces of thermal processing (burning). In a ritual pit from the Late Iron Age, a skeleton of a sacrificial horse was found. The horse was part of the livelihood and economic activity in these lands, marked the high social status of its owner, and, therefore, was sacrificed during funerals or other rituals.
INSECTS IN MONOGASTRIC NUTRITION – CHALLENGES AND FUTURE
Authors: G. Yordanova  , M. Petrova  , V. Pirgozliev  , R. Nedeva
Published: January 2025

The earth's population growth has stimulated the demand for animal protein for human consumption, boosting the exploitation of natural resources. In recent years, insects have been increasingly cultivated for human and animal food, emphasising the advantage of using less land and water, as well as creating lower emissions and greenhouse gases. Providing alternative protein sources in the feeding of monogastric animals is a challenge and a scientific priority for scientists. The review includes studies on insect meal (IM) addition in compound feeds and its influence on poultry and swine productivity, health and environmental effects. The questions remain open for research on the optimal level of inclusion of IM to different production categories, product quality, standardising IM rendering and production methods and the impact on the physiological and health status of animals.
NEUROPHYSIOLOGICAL BASIS OF DREAMING – A REVIEW
Authors: P. Hristova  , Iv. Penchev Georgiev
Published: January 2025

The main purpose of this review paper is to summarize and analyze the current information of the essence of dreams as an important part of the normal sleep and neurophysiological mechanisms of their regulation. Described in details are the dreaming in NREM and REM sleeping periods and the role of mesocorticolimbic dopamine system, cholinergic system and visual cortex. In addition, some aspects of neuropsychological basis of dreams and dreaming in animals are also discussed.
REVIEW OF CLINICAL TRIALS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: M. Nedelchev  , Y. Nedelcheva
Published: January 2025

Objective: The systematic data on clinical trials during the COVID-19 pandemic are scarce. We aimed to review the dynamics of clinical trials in the new reality. Materials and methods: We collected data for all 112 clinical trials completed or prematurely ended in 2019-2021. The main data sources are the Register of Authorized Clinical Trials, the Bulgarian Drug Agency, and the European Union Clinical Trials Register of the European Union Drug Regulating Authorities Clinical Trials Databases. Results: General information of clinical trials is aligned with international trends, while the population of trial subjects is in line with the demographic situation in Bulgaria. The adaptability of trial sites to conduct multi-regional trials is the newest factor for clinical trials dynamics. Conclusions: The size of country’s population is not a factor in the dynamics of clinical trials. A therapeutic area of clinical trials in line with local trends and the adaptability of trial sites to the international trends of most common diseases are attractive factor for conducting clinical trials in Bulgaria.
MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER, TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS AND INFLAMMATION
Authors: Y. Petkov
Published: January 2025

Inflammation may play a key role in the pathogenesis of both depression and type 2 diabetes. However, elevated levels of circulating IL-6 are an independent predictor of type 2 diabetes and are thought to occur with the development of insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction. There is no evidence linking IL-6 to β-cell dysfunction and eventual β-cell apoptosis. Elevated levels of IL-6 are always associated with increased hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) activity in depression. This increases cortisol, which then triggers TDO and reduces the availability of tryptophan for the production of melatonin, NAS and serotonin. Therefore, IL-6 contributes to the regulation of important biological pathways that underlie stress and the subsequent depression that results from stress.
NEW ASPECTS OF COOPERATION BETWEEN THE REPUBLIC OF BULGARIA AND THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF GERMANY IN THE FIELD OF HIGHER VETERINARY EDUCATION
Authors: D. Yarkov  , Iv. Bozhkov  , Z. Todorov
Published: January 2025

In 2023 the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine marked its centennial anniversary since its establishment as the first of its kind in Bulgaria. In the year 2024, the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) also celebrated globally a centennial anniversary since its formation as the OIE in 1924, when Germany and Bulgaria participated as its co-founders.
With regard to these remarkable events, we decided to make a short retrospective analysis of the century-long fruitful cooperation between Bulgaria and Germany in the field of higher veterinary education and its importance and effectiveness under the new conditions and realities in the world and the concept of "One Health" proclaimed by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), World Health Organization (WHO), Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), World Trade Organization (WTO) and the European Union (EU).
PREVALENCE OF THE RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS INFECTION IN THE WINTER AND SPRING MONTHS AMONG BULGARIAN CHILDREN YOUNGER THAN 2 YEARS OF AGE
Authors: E. Kostadinova  , S. Angelova
Published: January 2025

Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) in children from 2 months to 5 years of age are significant for clinical practice and researchers because of their high incidence, risk of severe clinical course, and development of chronic complications.  About 60% of LRTIs  are caused by viral infections. PURPOSE: To make an etiological diagnosis of viral infections of the lower respiratory tract-acute bronchiolitis and viral pneumonia. To present an epidemiological characterization in relation to the identified viral agents. METODS: The subjects of the prospective study were 101 children aged 2 months to 5 years, hospitalized in the Clinic of Pediatrics with clinical manifestations of viral LRTI`s with bronchial obstruction. Clinical material was analyzed according to the main epidemiological parameters: sex, age, place of residence, season, etiological agent of infection, etiological diagnosis according to season, presence of risk factors from family history and comorbidities. Etiological diagnosis of viral LRTIs was made by RT-PCR analysis. RESULTS: Epidemiological characteristics of the diagnosed viral LRTIs are presented. The prevalence of male sex was found to be higher (without statistical significance), more frequent among urban children and the highest incidence of viral LRTIs in the age up to 2 years.  The etiological diagnosis made shows that respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common etiological cause of acute bronchiolitis in children under 2 years of age, both alone and in co-infections. CONCLUSIONS: RSV is the most common statistically significant etiological cause in winter and spring. Rhinovirus (RV) is the leading etiological cause in summer and autumn.  Co-infections involving RSV and RV also have a high incidence during these seasons.
Temporal attentional bias to visual game stimuli in Internet gaming disorder
Authors: Hu Mengjian , Ku Yixuan , Liu Lu
Published: January 2025

Background and aims

Uncontrollable gaming behavior is a core symptom of Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD). Attentional bias towards game-related cues may contribute to the difficulty in regulating online gaming behavior. However, the context-specific attentional bias and its cognitive mechanisms in individuals with IGD have not been systematically investigated.

Methods

We compared individuals with IGD to healthy controls (HC) using a rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) task to measure temporal attentional bias. By applying game-related and neutral stimuli as targets, we specifically assessed how attentional resources were allocated to game-related stimuli compared to neutral stimuli.

Results

The IGD group showed enhanced attentional blink effect when a game-related stimulus was the first target and a neutral target was the next, reflecting IGD's difficulty in disengaging from game-related stimuli. Both IGD and HC individuals exhibited decreased accuracy in identifying a neutral first target followed by a game-related second target at shorter lags, indicating increased attentional engagement with game-related stimuli in general.

Discussion

The results provide a cognitive basis for recurrent and uncontrollable gaming behaviors in individuals with IGD. Game cues have priority in the allocation of attentional resources in individuals with IGD. The results shed new light on the development of specific treatments for IGD.
Analysis of the persistent photoconductivity in composite nanocrystalline ZnO/Si films produced by co-sputtering at room temperature
Authors: Ortiz Vázquez Jonathan , Paredes Rubio Gabriel Romero , Arellano Miguel Galván , Castro Ontiveros Erick Ismael , Peña Sierra Ramón
Published: January 2025

The persistent photoconductivity (PPC) behavior in composite nanocrystalline films ZnO(RF)/Si(DC) films grown by co-sputtering was studied. The studied films were produced by fixing the ZnO RF magnetron power at 120 Watts and varying the DC power for the Si target from 0 to 80 Watts. The produced films were structural, optical, and electrical characterized; n-type films were produced for all the composition range. The PPC behavior was studied in samples grown with the composition formed with the ZnO (RF = 120 W)/Si (DC = 20 W) power condition, and by exposing the sample surfaces under continuous or pulsed ultraviolet (UV) radiation (390–400 nm). After applying an extended cleansing period, the PPC characteristic time constants, τ.63, were obtained; the turn-off time constant varied from 16.8 to 22.8 s, while the turn-on time constant changed from 24 to 30 s. These periods are linked to the UV light lattice absorption and the corresponding energy relaxation mechanisms.

Graphical abstract
Electric aviation engines with ducted fan design
Authors:   UEC-Aviadvigatel, Shevelev Aleksandr , Sazhenkov Nikolay ,   Perm National Research Polytechnic University
Published: January 2025

All-electric power plant with ducted fan and electric motor driving the fan are reviewed in the article. This power plant is considered to be used on regional aircraft with a take-off thrust level of 73.5 kN on each power plant. To identify the most efficient fan total pressure ratio πВ* calculation studies were carried.
Based on design calculations, according to a previously developed methodology, mathematical models of engines with πВ* equal to 1.4, 1.5 and 1.6 were formed. It has been determined that the optimal fan total pressure ratio increase are in the range 1,3…1.4, but the optimum is quite flat.
It is shown that when πВ* decreases from 1.6 to 1.4 the required range of possible regulation of nozzle area in take-off conditions increases to maintain gas-dynamic stability margins due to stratification of lines in operating modes on the pressure characteristic of the fan.
The main engineering contradiction has been identified – πВ* is needed to be reduced to achieve greater engine efficiency. However, this decision leads to an increase in mass of engine and the installation of a complex system of nozzle regulation. For the final choice of the most optimal value of πВ*, it is necessary to evaluate the flight-technical characteristics of an aircraft with engines having πВ* in the range of 1,4…1,6.
In addition to the best efficiency of an engine, πВ* = 1.4 allows to achieve the highest available thrust. Such advantage can solve the problem of increase of the take-off weight of the aircraft due to added «heavy» hybrid or electric components (electric motors, electrical communications, batteries, etc.).
Моделювання теплових процесів у газодинамічному тепло-холодильному акустичному генераторі з газовим розподільником
Authors: Димерцов Д.О.
Published: January 2025

З розвитком сучасних технологій, застосування математичного моделювання у вивченні різних фізичних процесів стало доволі актуальною темою для дослідників. Швидка зміна фізичних процесів не дозволяє вивчати процес глибше, що як раз і спонукає дослідника до використання моделювання та послідовного програмування математики. Одним з таких процесів є коливання газу в резонансній трубці у газоструминному акустичному холодильно-нагрівальному генераторі. Простота конструкцій та швидка зміна процесів в генераторі дала можливість використання математичного моделювання, що більш досконало дозволяє вивчити процеси генераторів. Робота генераторів доволі цікава з точки зору теплового та холодильного напряму розвитку безмашинних газодинамічних методів отримання зміни температур. Даний пристрій сполучає в собі простоту й надійність конструкції на відміну від інших холодильних машин, оскільки має у своїй конструкції прості рушійні частини або не має їх зовсім. Газоструминні акустичні холодильно-нагрівальні генератори знайшли своє застосування у нафтовому та газовому видобуванні, космічних технологіях. Тому актуальність вивчення самих генераторів і, головне, процесів в них займає не останнє місце в холодильній та тепловій техніці. Розглянувши розвиток технологій та математичного моделювання, було обрано перспективний спосіб отримання зміни температури, який базується на коливальному процесі газів, виникаючих в заглушених трубках. В роботі розглянуті гіпотези виникнення теплових ефектів. Представлена власна одновимірна математична модель газодинамічних процесів, де використовується система диференційних рівнянь, яка розв’язується різницевими методами. Створена модель запрограмована у мові програмування Lazarus Free Pascal та представлена у вигляді програми розрахунку характеристик газуструминного холодильно-теплового акустичного генератора. Використовуючи створену програму, проведено дослідження виникнення теплового ефекту на різних температурних рівнях
Masculinidades en transformación. Significados de los relatos de universitarios del sur de Chile
Authors: Arias-Lagos Loreto , Peña-Axt Juan Carlos
Published: January 2025

En este artículo se exploran los significados de las masculinidades de universitarios en la ciudad de Temuco, región de La Araucanía en Chile, considerando que los estudiantes con este nivel de formación constituyen un segmento que cuestiona los valores presentes en su educación, incluyendo las representaciones de las relaciones de género tradicionales. De acuerdo con la revisión de la literatura sobre masculinidades en América Latina, se destaca la presencia de masculinidades hegemónicas y de masculinidades más cercanas a la equidad de género que pueden estar en transformación, especialmente entre los jóvenes. El acercamiento a esta realidad se llevó a cabo a través de una metodología cualitativa, con un muestreo intencionado; se aplicaron 10 entrevistas y dos grupos focales. Para analizar la información recogida se utilizó el análisis de contenido cualitativo. Los resultados obtenidos, en concordancia con la literatura consultada, destacan mandatos como la protección de las mujeres, el éxito profesional y económico, y la virilidad asociada al hombre heterosexual activo. Por otro lado, se encuentran relatos de jóvenes universitarios que cuestionan los mandatos tradicionales y que creen en la igualdad de roles de género, redefiniendo lo que significa ser hombres en la actualidad. Esto evidencia la coexistencia de masculinidades tradicionales y en transformación entre los universitarios que participaron en el estudio.
Movimiento antiminero y oportunidades políticas en el sur del Ecuador
Authors: Cajamarca Nelson
Published: January 2025

En junio de 2018 y en marzo de 2019, organizaciones ecologistas de la provincia del Azuay alcanzaron dos objetivos en contra de los proyectos mineros Río Blanco y Loma Larga, logrando que se dictara la suspensión de las actividades extractivas por medio de una acción de protección y una consulta popular, respectivamente. ¿Qué factores influyeron en el hecho de que los actores antimineros de la provincia del Azuay alcanzaran los resultados anteriormente descritos, considerando que los mecanismos para efectivizarlos se llevaron a cabo por la vía institucional? Este artículo responde a tal interrogante a partir de una investigación cualitativa; los datos han sido recopilados mediante una revisión documental de medios de comunicación escrita y digital, portales digitales de las organizaciones sociales y entidades gubernamentales. El argumento que se sostiene es que el resultado ha sido producto de una variación en las oportunidades políticas –cambios en las coaliciones de la élite gobernante y presencia de aliados coyunturales– en dos momentos de la historia reciente de Ecuador (2007-2008 y 2017-2018), lo que favoreció a las acciones institucionales de las organizaciones antimineras. Se ha encontrado que las transformaciones en las coaliciones de la élite gobernante, expresadas en los cambios de las autoridades de los entes estatales nacionales, significaron también la presencia de aliados políticos coyunturales para las organizaciones sociales.
Cambio en la política pública para jóvenes y acceso al empleo en Colombia
Authors: Martínez-Carvajal Jorge
Published: January 2025

En Colombia, las políticas públicas orientadas a la población joven se estructuraron bajo el marco de los derechos sociales, económicos y culturales establecido por la Constitución Política aprobada en el año 1991, lo que permitió ampliar la perspectiva sobre el rol de este grupo etario y de su ciclo de vida. En el presente artículo me enfoco en las políticas públicas dirigidas a la juventud en Colombia entre 1992 y 2022, ahondando especialmente en lo relacionado con el empleo juvenil, el cual constituye el caso de estudio. El análisis busca contrastar los patrones teóricos sobre el papel de los y las jóvenes con el rol que se les asigna en la política pública, examinando los planes de desarrollo nacional, los documentos publicados por el Consejo Nacional de Política Económica y Social (CONPES) y los programas de empleo, con el fin de evidenciar los cambios y la evolución hacia el reconocimiento de sus derechos. Se concluye que la estructura gubernamental implementada para el desarrollo de estas políticas, al igual que sus respectivos programas, han limitado la continuidad y la progresión de los derechos juveniles, pues prevale una visión donde se entiende a la juventud como una etapa de transición en la que los recursos familiares e individuales determinan en gran medida el goce efectivo de sus derechos.
Künstliche Intelligenz: Probleme der Arbeitsgestaltung, gewerkschaftliche Positionen und Regelungsansätze
Authors:   ver.di-Bundesverwaltung Berlin, Müller Nadine
Published: January 2025

Artificial intelligence: problems of work design, trade union positions and regulatory approaches
The impact of artificial intelligence on the quality of working conditions has not yet been sufficiently researched, even though there is knowledge about the increased strain associated with digital transformation and assessments of previous measures, or the lack thereof, in occupational health and safety. The widespread adoption of AI may lead to a worsening of psychological strain in the workplace. The quantity and quality of the measures must be improved and the influence on the technology and its introduction in the companies must be increased for the employees.
Metabolismus des Anti-Schuppen-Wirkstoffs Climbazol nach oraler Gabe und dermaler Applikation
Authors:   Currenta GmbH & Co. OHG, Institut für Biomonitoring, Leverkusen, Schönrath Isabell , Schmidtkunz Christoph ,   Currenta GmbH & Co. OHG, Institut für Biomonitoring, Leverkusen, Ebert Katharina E. ,   Institut für Prävention und Arbeitsmedizin der Deutschen Gesetzlichen Unfallversicherung, Institut der Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Küpper Katja ,   Currenta GmbH & Co. OHG, Institut für Biomonitoring, Leverkusen, Brüning Thomas ,   Institut für Prävention und Arbeitsmedizin der Deutschen Gesetzlichen Unfallversicherung, Institut der Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Koch Holger M. ,   Institut für Prävention und Arbeitsmedizin der Deutschen Gesetzlichen Unfallversicherung, Institut der Ruhr-Universität Bochum (IPA), Leng Gabriele ,   Currenta GmbH & Co. OHG, Institut für Biomonitoring, Leverkusen
Published: January 2025

Metabolism of the anti-dandruff agent climbazole after oral and dermal administration
Due to its antimycotic properties, climbazole is used in cosmetic products as a preservative or as an active ingredient in anti-dandruff (AD) formulations. In order to provide human toxicokinetic data on climbazole, we investigated the urinary excretion of two climbazole metabolites, (OH)2-
climbazole and cx-OH-climbazole, for 48 h after oral intake (n = 5, 49–77 μg/kg body weight [bw]) and for 72 h after dermal application of either a climbazole-containing rinse-off AD shampoo or a leave-on hair tonic (n = 2 × 3). In total, 23.9 % (18.0–33.4 %) of the oral dose were excreted as the two examined metabolites within a period of 48 h after dosage. After dermal application, urinary excretion was slower than after oral intake. Backcalculated oral-dose-equivalent intakes from the dermal exposures lead to maximum climbazole intakes of 18.5 μg/kg bw/day after one-time hair tonic
use and 6.6 μg/kg bw/day after AD shampoo application, which are below the relevant toxicological threshold values. The study results further indicate a possible influence of herb-drug interactions on climbazole metabolism
Keywords: Climbazole – excretion kinetics – human biomonitoring (HBM)