bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of the Updated “LIfestyle for BRAin health” (LIBRA) Index in the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing and Maastricht Aging Study
Authors: Rosenau Colin , Köhler Sebastian , van Boxtel Martin , Tange Huibert , Deckers Kay
Published: September 2024

Background: The “LIfestyle for BRAin health” (LIBRA) index was recently updated with three new modifiable factors: hearing impairment, social contact, and sleep (LIBRA2), but has not yet been validated. Objective: Comparison of the performance of both LIBRA versions in predicting dementia risk. Methods: Longitudinal data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) and the Maastricht Aging Study (MAAS) were used. The weighted LIBRA (11/12 factors available) and LIBRA2 (14/15 factors available) scores were calculated, with higher scores representing an unhealthier lifestyle. Dementia diagnoses were based on self- or informant reported physician diagnosis, an informant-based cognitive screening tool, registry data or test data. Cox-proportional hazards regression was used to investigate the association between LIBRA(2) scores and dementia risk. Model fit and predictive accuracy were determined using the Akaike information criterion and Harrell’s C index. Results: Over an average follow-up of 8.3 years in ELSA and 17.9 years in MAAS, 346 (4.6%) and 120 (8.5%) individuals developed dementia, respectively. In ELSA, a one-point increase in LIBRA2 was associated with an 8% (1.06–1.11) higher dementia risk (LIBRA: 13%, 1.09–1.16). In MAAS, a one-point increase in LIBRA2 was associated with a 6% (1.01–1.12) higher dementia risk (LIBRA: 8%, 0.99–1.16). In ELSA, LIBRA (Harrell’s C = 0.68) and LIBRA2 (Harrell’s C = 0.67) performed similarly. In MAAS, LIBRA2 (Harrell’s C = 0.62) performed better compared to LIBRA (Harrell’s C = 0.52) Conclusions: LIBRA2 is a better model for identifying individuals at increased dementia risk and for public health initiatives aimed at dementia risk reduction.
A randomized-controlled trial of parent-administered interventions to improve short-term motor outcomes in hospitalized very low birthweight infants
Authors: Letzkus L. , Conaway M. , Daugherty R. , Hook M. , Zanelli S.
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND: Premature infants are at increased risk for cerebral palsy (CP). Early interventions with a motor focus and administered by parents may improve motor outcomes. AIMS: Secondary study evaluating the short-term motor outcomes and risk for CP in very low birthweight (VLBW) infants randomized to multimodal interventions with a motor focus provided by parents versus usual care. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized controlled trial (intervention vs. usual care (control group)) SUBJECTS: Infants (<32 weeks’ gestational age (GA) and/or <1500 grams birthweight) born between March 2019 and October 2020. OUTCOME MEASURES: Short-term motor outcomes and risk for CP was evaluated using the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Evaluation (HINE, primary motor outcome), the General Movement Assessment (GMA) and the Test of Infant Motor Performance (TIMP) at 3 months’ postmenstrual age (PMA). RESULTS: 70 participants were enrolled (GA 28.3±2.7 weeks, birthweight 1139.2±376.6 grams, 64.3% male). The in-person follow-up rate was 73%, lower than expected, in part due to COVID-19 restrictions, resulting in 25 infants (intervention) and 26 infants (control) with outcome data available for analysis. There was not a significant difference in the HINE, GMA or TIMP at 3 months’ PMA between groups. CONCLUSION: Multimodal interventions with a motor focus and provided by parents need further investigation to determine if they can improve short-term motor outcomes in VLBW infants. These interventions are evidence-based and the evaluation of broader implementation into routine care is also needed.
Research, education and practice of tele-neurorehabilitation in low and middle-income countries: A Scoping Review
Authors: Gandhi Dorcas B.C. , Kamalakannan Sureshkumar , Dsouza Jennifer V. , Montanaro Vinicius , Chawla Nistara S. , Mahmood Amreen , Ngeh Etienne , Zarreen Sania , Vijayanand Pranay J. , Solomon John M.
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND: Tele-neurorehabilitation (TNR) allows for remote delivery of rehabilitation services for those with neurological disabilities. Despite growing global interest and uptake, its adoption remains challenging in Low-and-Middle-Income-Countries (LMICs). OBJECTIVE: To explore available literature on the nature of training and education, research and practice of TNR in LMICs. METHODS: Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines and predefined selection criteria, four databases were screened. Quality assessment was performed using the Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Relevant data was extracted to using a data extraction form in Microsoft Excel and were narratively synthesised under Education/training, Research and Clinical Practice of TNR. RESULTS: We identified no formal structured training courses/programs for TNR users/providers. Sessions were mainly delivered as part of a research project. The included studies highlighted the need to engage stakeholders in TNR research and improve digital-literacy among healthcare providers/users. Development and use of clinical decision-making-tools, models of TNR suitable for varied populations and prior area-mapping were a few suggestions for clinical/research practice. CONCLUSION: There is an immense need to develop academic/structured programs for TNR to build capacity among providers/users in LMICs. Practice must adhere to principles of safety, effectiveness, and based on high quality clinical-guidelines suitable to the context to ensure optimal uptake and practice of TNR in LMICs.
Normative data for tests of visuo-spatial, visuo-constructional skills, and visual memory for Spanish-speaking adults in the United States
Authors: Morel Valdés Gloria M. , Rivera Diego , Olabarrieta-Landa Laiene , Carrión Carmen I. , Lequerica Anthony H. , Maltez Fatima Iyarit , Rodriguez Miriam J. , Dini Mia E. , Munoz Geovani , Usuga Daniela Ramos , Drago Christin I. , García Patricia , Rivera Patricia M. , Perrin Paul B. , Arango-Lasprilla Juan Carlos
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND: The Rey-Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (ROCFT) and the Clock Drawing Test (CDT) are commonly used in clinical practice. The ROCFT measures constructional praxis, visual perception, and visuospatial learning and memory, and the CDT assesses for visuospatial, constructional, and executive difficulties. Several neurological disorders are associated with visuospatial and visuo-constructional impairments, yet reliable normative data accounting for sociodemographic and acculturative variables are scarce for Hispanics living in the U.S. OBJECTIVE: To generate normative data for the ROCFT and CDT in a Spanish-speaking adult population living in the U.S. METHODS: The sample consisted of 245 cognitively healthy adults recruited from several states in the U.S. Each participant was administered the ROCFT and CDT as part of a larger cognitive battery. The ROCFT and CDT were normed using a Bayesian approach. Age, age2, education, sex, acculturation, and language proficiency were included as predictors in the analyses. RESULTS: ROCFT performance was associated with education and age, particularly as they interacted with Spanish language proficiency and time spent in the U.S. Education was significantly associated with recall abilities and a lower memory recall on the ROCFT. Age was found to vary depending on a person’s bilingual abilities. Sex did not emerge as a predictor of performance, and it did not interact significantly with other variables. CONCLUSION: This is the first study to include acculturation and language proficiency variables in the creation of norms for the assessment of visuo-constructional abilities. This study will have a large impact on the practice of neuropsychology in the U.S.
Methodology for the generation of normative data for the U.S. adult Spanish-speaking population: A Bayesian approach
Authors: Rivera Diego , Forte Anabel , Olabarrieta-Landa Laiene , Perrin Paul B. , Arango-Lasprilla Juan Carlos
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND: Hispanics are the largest growing ethnic minority group in the U.S. Despite significant progress in providing norms for this population, updated normative data are essential. OBJECTIVE: To present the methodology for a study generating normative neuropsychological test data for Spanish-speaking adults living in the U.S. using Bayesian inference as a novel approach. METHODS: The sample consisted of 253 healthy adults from eight U.S. regions, with individuals originating from a diverse array of Latin American countries. To participate, individuals must have met the following criteria: were between 18 and 80 years of age, had lived in the U.S. for at least 1 year, self-identified Spanish as their dominant language, had at least one year of formal education, were able to read and write in Spanish at the time of evaluation, scored≥23 on the Mini-Mental State Examination, <10 on the Patient Health Questionnaire– 9, and <10 on the Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale. Participants completed 12 neuropsychological tests. Reliability statistics and norms were calculated for all tests. CONCLUSION: This is the first normative study for Spanish-speaking adults in the U.S. that uses Bayesian linear or generalized linear regression models for generating norms in neuropsychology, implementing sociocultural measures as possible covariates.
Testing prompt engineering methods for knowledge extraction from text
Authors: Polat Fina , Tiddi Ilaria , Groth Paul
Published: September 2024

The capabilities of Large Language Models (LLMs,) such as Mistral 7B, Llama 3, GPT-4, present a significant opportunity for knowledge extraction (KE) from text. However, LLMs’ context-sensitivity can hinder obtaining precise and task-aligned outcomes, thereby requiring prompt engineering. This study explores the efficacy of five prompt methods with different task demonstration strategies across 17 different prompt templates, utilizing a relation extraction dataset (RED-FM) with the aforementioned LLMs. To facilitate evaluation, we introduce a novel framework grounded in Wikidata’s ontology. The findings demonstrate that LLMs are capable of extracting a diverse array of facts from text. Notably, incorporating a simple instruction accompanied by a task demonstration – comprising three examples selected via a retrieval mechanism – significantly enhances performance across Mistral 7B, Llama 3, and GPT-4. The effectiveness of reasoning-oriented prompting methods such as Chain-of-Thought, Reasoning and Acting, while improved with task demonstrations, does not surpass alternative methods. This suggests that framing extraction as a reasoning task may not be necessary for KE. Notably, task demonstrations leveraging examples selected via retrieval mechanisms facilitate effective knowledge extraction across all tested prompting strategies and LLMs.
Role of inflammatory aging in the development of age-related macular degeneration
Authors:   M.M. Krasnov Research Institute of Eye Diseases, Moscow, Russian Federation, Khalatyan A.S. , Yusef Yu. ,   M.M. Krasnov Research Institute of Eye Diseases, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: September 2024

Aging is often accompanied by systemic inflammation known as ‘inflamm-aging'. This process is characterized by an increase in proinflammatory cytokines and a decrease in anti-inflammatory cytokines. Inflammatory aging is caused by both chronic subclinical inflammation from exogenous factors and intrinsic inflammatory processes associated with progressive mitochondrial degeneration. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the primary cause of blindness and visual impairment in patients over 60 years of age in developed countries. The disease has a complex pathogenesis, with inflammation playing a central role in the degenerative processes in both dry and wet AMD. The development of AMD involves various pro-inflammatory stimuli, cells, mediators, and metabolic pathways. The pathogenesis of AMD begins with the thickening of Bruch's membrane caused by the accumulation of lipids and proteins, resulting in the formation of subretinal deposits called drusen. These deposits impede fluid outflow from retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells through Bruch's membrane, leading to an increased metabolic burden on the RPE. This cellular stress triggers a pro-inflammatory cascade. The purpose of this paper is to examine the current understanding of the role of inflammation in AMD and to explore potential new therapeutic approaches. KEYWORDS: aging, inflammation, age-related macular degeneration, inflammatory aging, antiangiogenic therapy. FOR CITATION: Khalatyan A.S., Yusef Yu. Role of inflammatory aging in the development of age-related macular degeneration. Russian Journal of Clinical Ophthalmology. 2024;24(3):127–132 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2311-7729-2024-24-3-5.
Extraction of 4-HBA utilizing renewable and conventional solvents
Authors: Yadav Vishnu P , Chandrakar Anil Kumar
Published: September 2024

The valuable chemical 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (4-HBA), the phenolic compound of carboxylic acid possesses promise as an antioxidant, antifungal, anticancer, antidiabetic, and cardioprotective properties. 4-HBA has promising uses in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and plastic sectors, making it worthwhile to recover. Using renewable solvent like Karanja oil and traditional solvents like n-Butanol, and Di-chlorobenzene, the experimental tests were carried out to separate 4-hydroxybenzoic acid from solute mixed aqueous solution. Parameters including the distribution coefficient KD, the percentage extraction efficiency %E, the partition coefficient P, and the dimerization constant D were discovered and associated with several solvent physicochemical features while evaluating the equilibrium for this physical extraction experiment. The following parametric values were obtained for KD and %E: n-Butanol (1.704, 63.02%)> Karanja oil (0.810, 44.75%) > Di-chlorobenzene (0.555, 35.69%).
Efficiency And Effectiveness Performances Of Hydro-Powered Water Pump (Path) Technology Application
Authors: Novayanti Nina , Saraswati Erwin , Iqbal Syaiful
Published: September 2024

This research aims to analyze the effectiveness and efficiency performance of the implementation of Hydro Water Pump technology in Wonokerso Village, Temanggung Regency. This research uses a qualitative method with a case study approach. Primary data was obtained through Focus Group Discussions and interviews with stakeholders, while secondary data was obtained from related documents. Effectiveness performance analysis was conducted using the Social Return on Investment method to measure the social, economic, and environmental impacts of PATH technology implementation, while efficiency performance was measured by comparing the outputs produced with the inputs used. The results showed that the effectiveness performance of PATH technology implementation in Wonokerso Village improved farmers' welfare by increasing the planting period from twice to three times a year, increasing the spirit of mutual cooperation and harmony among farmers and maintaining air cleanliness because it was able to provide irrigation water with non-oil fueled water pump technology. The calculation of the SROI ratio shows that every Rp 1 invested generates Rp 4.38 of social value. Thus, this program can be said to be effective so that it can be implemented further. While the efficiency performance shows 99.99%, in other words, this program is less efficient.
Factors Influencing Financial Performance And Sustainability Of SMES: Evidence From Indonesia
Authors: Kusumastuti Hesti , Aligarh Frank
Published: September 2024

This study examines the impact of digital transformation, government support, human resource capacity, and innovation on the financial performance and sustainability of SMEs in the Soloraya region. The research method used is quantitative, with data collected through surveys using both Google Forms and paper questionnaires. A total of 137 respondents were analyzed using SEM-PLS in this study. The results indicate that digital transformation, human resource capacity, and innovation have a positive impact on financial performance. Additionally, government support, human resource capacity, innovation, and financial performance positively affect the sustainability of SMEs. However, digital transformation does not influence the sustainability of SMEs, and government support does not affect financial performance. These findings provide important insights for business practitioners and other stakeholders to enhance the performance and sustainability of SMEs in Indonesia.
Utilization of PT INALUM Baking Filter Dust Waste and Coconut Shell Charcoal in Making Hybrid Briquettes
Authors: Sihotang Muhammad Sontang , Firman Ashad  , Edi Mugiono  , Juperisya Anas  , Ananto Dwi Rahmadi  , Gratha Adhitya Putra  , Prima Zulfa Muchlas Antoni  , Dara Aisyah
Published: September 2024

The global energy crisis and dependence on fossil fuels require the search for renewable and environmentally friendly energy sources. The smelter industry of PT INALUM produces Baking Filter Dust (BFD) as waste, which can pollute theenvironment if not properly managed. Meanwhile, coconut shells, an abundant agricultural waste, hold potential as an alternative fuel. This research aims to develop hybrid briquettes from BFD and coconut shell charcoal, according to SNINo.01-6235-2000 standards. The study involved collecting and preparing BFD from PT INALUM and coconut shell charcoal, producing briquettes with varying ratios from 20% BFD: 80% charcoal to 80% BFD: 20% charcoal. The quality of the briquettes was tested through proximate and ultimate analyses, with characterization using XRF, FTIR, SEM-EDS, and TGA to determine elemental content, functional groups, structure, chemical composition, and thermal stability. The results indicated that briquettes with 60% BFD and 40% coconut shell charcoal exhibited the highest quality, with a calorific value of 6557.3 cal/g, fixed carbon content of 86.2%, ash content of 3.38%, moisture content of 3.22%, volatile matter content of 7.2%, and sulfur content of 0.47%. These briquettes meet SNI No.01-6235-2000 standards and provide a viable solution for managing industrial waste and supplying sustainable alternative fuel.
СТРАТЕГІЯ ПОВОЄННОГО ВІДНОВЛЕННЯ ЕКОНОМІКИ УКРАЇНИ В УМОВАХ ЄВРОІНТЕГРАЦІЇ
Authors: Войтович Людмила , Федик Мар’яна
Published: September 2024

Стаття присвячена розгляду стратегії повоєнного відновлення економіки України в умовах євроінтеграції. Мета статті – формування стратегії на основі виокремлення основних напрямів повоєнного відновлення економіки України в контексті поточної ситуації та майбутніх євроінтеграційних процесів. В процесі наукового дослідження використовувалися загальнонаукові методи пізнання, такі як аналіз, синтез, індукція та дедукція. Результати дослідження показують, що стратегія повоєнного відновлення економіки України в умовах євроінтеграції є надзвичайно важливою та комплексною ініціативою, котра включає кілька взаємопов’язаних напрямків. Основними з них є відновлення промислового потенціалу, модернізація критичної інфраструктури та розвиток інноваційних секторів економіки. Важливим аспектом цієї стратегії є залучення міжнародних інвестицій, що сприятиме не лише відновленню економіки, але й підвищенню довіри з боку іноземних партнерів до України як надійного економічного партнера. Окрему увагу в стратегії приділено створенню сприятливого інвестиційного клімату, що включає правовий захист інвесторів та оптимізацію регуляторного середовища. Це є вирішальним для залучення необхідних фінансових ресурсів та іноземного капіталу, які становлять основу для відновлення та подальшого розвитку економіки. Крім того, особливе значення надається забезпеченню енергетичної безпеки шляхом розвитку відновлюваних джерел енергії та зменшення залежності від імпортних енергоресурсів, що сприятиме зміцненню економічної стійкості країни. Не менш важливою складовою є збереження та розвиток трудових ресурсів, включаючи повернення трудових мігрантів та інтеграцію іммігрантів, що є важливим кроком для підтримання демографічного балансу та забезпечення стійкого економічного зростання. Отже, стратегія повоєнного відновлення економіки України в умовах євроінтеграції охоплює комплексний підхід, який враховує всі ключові аспекти економічного розвитку та соціального забезпечення, забезпечуючи підготовку країни до повноцінного входження до європейської спільноти та відкриття нових можливостей для сталого економічного розвитку та підвищення якості життя громадян. Практичне значення дослідження полягає в розробці рекомендацій щодо ефективної реалізації стратегії відновлення економіки України в умовах євроінтеграції.
ОРГАНІЗАЦІЯ ПЕРЕВІРКИ ЯКОСТІ ВИКОНУВАНИХ БУДІВЕЛЬНИХ ПРОЕКТІВ
Authors: Данилюк Тетяна , Мурафа Тарас
Published: September 2024

Стаття присвячена виділенню ключових аспектів організації перевірки якості виконуваних будівельних проєктів. В статті висвітлено методи та підходи до організації ефективної системи контролю якості. Обґрунтовано, що прийняття в експлуатацію закінчених будівництвом об’єктів поділяється на прийняття об’єктів державної та іншої форми власності. Подано перелік відповідальних осіб, що входять до кожної групи. Визначені ролі і межі відповідальності учасників відповідних комісій, а також заходів прийняття в експлуатацію об’єктів різної форми власності із визначеними етапами перевірки якості виконуваних будівельних проєктів. Зроблено висновок, що організація перевірки якості виконаних будівельних проектів потребує чіткої координації між усіма учасниками процесу, включаючи замовників, підрядників, проектувальників та контрольні органи.
ПОВЕДІНКОВІ АСПЕКТИ ЗАБЕЗПЕЧЕННЯ ЕФЕКТИВНОСТІ СТРАХОВОГО РИНКУ І РИНКОВОЇ РІВНОВАГИ: МОДЕЛЬ «Х-ЕФЕКТИВНОСТІ СТРАХУВАННЯ»
Authors: Шірінян Артур , Шірінян Лада
Published: September 2024

Оскільки кожний учасник страхового ринку визначає ефективність ринку та ключові показники ефективності (КПЕ) на власний розсуд і по відношенню до себе, то КПЕ страхового ринку для різних його учасників відзрізняються. Метою статті є дослідження поведінкових аспектів забезпечення ефективності страхового ринку для його учасників в частині встановлення ринкової рівноваги, розробка графічних моделей попиту і пропозиції та діаграм ефективності страхового ринку. За допомогою параметрізації побудовано в координатах «ефективність страхування – ціна послуги» ринкову сукупну криву попиту на страхову послугу і сукупну ринкову криву пропозиції страхової послуги. Отриману графічну модель, яка якісно співпадає з класичною моделлю попиту і пропозиції товару та встановлення рівноваги на ринку страхування, ми назвали модель «Х-ефективності страхування» в координатах «ефективність страхування – ціна послуги». Аналіз свідчить про можливість складних ситуацій і стратегій поведінки учасників страхового ринку.
ĐẶC ĐIỂM LÂM SÀNG, NGUYÊN NHÂN VÀ KẾT QUẢ SỚM CỦA ĐIỀU TRỊ PHẪU THUẬT RÒ TRỰC TRÀNG – ÂM ĐẠO
Authors: Cao Thị Thu Hằng , Dương Văn Hải , Ngô Thạnh Phát , Mai Thị Trâm Anh , Nguyễn Đức Vượng
Published: September 2024

Đặt vấn đề: Rò trực tràng âm đạo chiếm tỉ lệ khoảng 5% các loại rò hậu môn trực tràng. Tình trạng này gây nhiều ảnh hưởng tiêu cực đến cuộc sống của người bệnh.

Mục tiêu: Mô tả đặc điểm lâm sàng và đánh giá kết quả sớm điều trị phẫu thuật rò trực tràng âm đạo.

Đối tượng - Phương pháp nghiên cứu: Nghiên cứu báo cáo loạt ca (27 trường hợp), hồi cứu và tiến cứu.

Kết quả: Nghiên cứu ghi nhận triệu chứng thường gặp nhất của rò trực tràng âm đạo là phân trong âm đạo và tiêu không tự chủ. Nguyên nhân gây rò phổ biến nhất là tai biến sản khoa, tiếp theo là sau phẫu thuật ung thư trực tràng. Phần lớn là rò ở vị trí thấp (92,5%). Tỉ lệ thành công của phẫu thuật điều trị rò là 63%. Phẫu thuật đóng phục hồi lỗ rò 3 lớp có tỉ lệ thành công cao hơn đóng lỗ rò 2 lớp.

Kết luận: Điều trị rò trực tràng âm đạo vẫn là thách thức với tỉ lệ tái phát cao. Đánh giá chính xác lỗ rõ về kích thước, vị trí, rò đơn giản hay phức tạp, nguyên nhân có thể giúp đưa ra lựa chọn điều trị phù hợp mang lại kết quả tốt hơn.

Từ khóa: rò trực tràng âm đạo, điều trị phẫu thuật, tai biến sản khoa, ung thư trực tràng
Reassessing a Holocene extinction: multiple lines of evidence do not support the historical presence and recent extirpation of a protected anole on the island of Anguilla
Authors: Yuan Michael , Bell Rayna , Myers Edward
Published: September 2024

Accurate assessment of historical species ranges is important for conservation science and management. Inaccurate historical species ranges can lead to incorrect assumptions about local extinctions, population trends, and potential sites for reintroductions. Yet, historical knowledge is often lacking for many species. Here, we examine the case of the bearded anole, Anolis pogus, which has long believed to have been recently extirpated from the island of Anguilla. We addressed the evidence for the historical presence and recent local extinction of A. pogus on Anguilla using species abundance modeling, fossil and extant morphological data, and archival DNA sequencing from museum specimens. We found that although viable habitat remains on Anguilla, it is highly fragmented. We also falsified the prior characterization of two size classes of anoles in Anguilla's fossil deposits as evidence for two species (A. gingivinus and A. pogus) by comparing with the size distribution of both species on neighboring St. Martin. Instead, our data indicate that fossil deposits on Anguilla likely correspond to males and females of the larger anole species, A. gingivinus, with no fossil evidence for A. pogus. Finally, we sequenced all known museum specimens of A. pogus from Anguilla and demonstrate that these specimens were incorrectly identified. Together, our results show that there is no evidence for the historical presence, and thus no evidence for the local extinction, of A. pogus on Anguilla. These data are vital for the appropriate management of this species of conservation concern. Furthermore, our study provides a case study for the critical assessment of historical species ranges and narratives of extinction.
A foglalkoztatás elősegítése Miskolc két leszakadó városrészében
Authors: Krabák Attila Adrián
Published: September 2024

A hátrányos helyzetű, leszakadó társadalmi csoportok foglalkoztatása, társadalmi integrációja számos terület szakembereinek kihívást jelentő feladat. Ezen csoportok tagjai gyakran szegregátumokban, slum-okban koncentrálódnak, ahol számos probléma egyszerre jelenik meg, köztük a foglalkoztatási-foglalkoztathatósági nehézségek is. A központi kérdés, hogy hogyan lehet az akadályok ellenére a szegregátumokban élők foglalkoztatását, társadalmi integrációját elősegíteni, támogatni. A fenntarthatóság és a hatásosabb beavatkozások érdekében azonban a hagyományos megoldásoktól eltérő, innovatív módszerek alkalmazása szükséges. Erről szól az EaSI keretprogramba illeszkedő, Miskolc Önkormányzata által kezdeményezett, 4IM mozaikszóval illetett kísérleti projekt. A tanulmányban a projekt foglalkoztatásfejlesztési folyamatának alakulását elemzem esettanulmányszerűen a projekt beavatkozási területét képező két leszakadó városrészben. Időigényes, változékony folyamatról van szó, rögös úttal és kockázatokkal, de az eredmények a kevés résztvevő ellenére némi bizakodásra adhatnak okot. Üzemlátogatás, re-integrációs és pályaorientációs foglalkozások, álláskeresési tréningek valósultak meg, 34 fő egyéni foglalkoztatási tanácsadásban részesült és néhányan elhelyezkedtek, a lakosság aktivitása pedig általánosságban nőtt. Ezalatt szakmaközi kapcsolatok jöttek létre és erősödtek meg.
Optimisation on the Hybridisation Ratio of Pulverised Fuel Ash and Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (PFA - GGBS) for the Fabrication of Geopolymer Mortar
Authors: Samsudin Muhammad Hasnolhadi , Kwan Wai Hoe , Mohamad Jamil Putri Anis Syahira , Abdul Aziz Nurhanim
Published: September 2024

The current cement industry has several environmental and social problems, including high greenhouse gas emissions, air pollution, water consumption, and the generation of large quantities of waste. This matter has grown into a significant concern, and there is now a pressing requirement to substitute the conventional binding material in concrete, namely Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC). This paper presents the report on the hybridisation of two industrial by-products, namely pulverised fuel ash (PFA) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), to produce an alternative binder known as geopolymer. A set of 11 hybrid PFA-GGBS geopolymeric mortar mixes was created using the complete range of hybridisation ratios, along with different water-to-binder ratios. The freshly mixed hybrid PFA-GGBS geopolymeric mortar was put through a flow table test to examine the required water-to-binder ratio to achieve the targeted level of workability. Afterward, all the samples were allowed to cure at room temperature before undergoing a destructive test to measure their compressive strength. According to the study's findings, the highest compressive strength of 4.6 MPa was achieved with a PFA-GGBS hybridisation ratio of 60-40 in the geopolymeric mortar. However, when the content of GGBS exceeded 40 %, the compressive strength of the hybrid PFA-GGBS geopolymeric mortar produced tended to decrease. Additionally, as the replacement level of GGBS increased, the required water-to-binder ratio also increased to maintain the targeted level of workability, ranging between 0.31-0.41. The PFA-GGBS hybridisation ratios of 60/40, 50/50, 40/60, and 30/70 have shown promising properties to be further refined regarding their application in cementless concrete. Moreover, the study conducted to replace cement as a binder in concrete has the potential to make the construction industry more sustainable and reduce carbon emissions by utilising industrial waste ash that would need to be affordable, strong, durable, and widely available in order to be practical.
Occupational Hazards/ Risks among Dental Staff in Afghanistan
Authors:   Statistics department of Mathematics Faculty, Kabul University, Azimi Susan , Azimi Shamila , Azami Mashal ,   School of dentistry, Kabul Medical University of Sciences
Published: September 2024

Background: The risks that are exclusive to the dental care setting are known as occupational hazards in dentistry. Aims: Dangers. This research analyses the prevalence of occupational hazards among dental staff in Afghanistan. Methodology: A cross-sectional study, using an online survey including qualitative and quantitative questions. Data collection was started from 16th .03.2021 till 12th.05.2021 and completed by 206 dentists. The questionnaire was designed in Google form and data was collected by online link via social media such as “Facebook, and WhatsApp”. Result: According to a survey the most common occupational hazards among dentists are musculoskeletal problems in Afghanistan. Among musculoskeletal problems, most of the responders had complained of backache while nobody had noticed any pain in their elbow joint. 55% of dentists were vaccinated for common diseases (HBV, HCV, HAV, etc.) and 41.6% were not vaccinated. 74% of participants strongly agreed that dentistry is a stressful field and 26.7% had a high level of fatigue due to work at the end of the day. Conclusion: musculoskeletal problems especially backache are the most prevalent hazards among Afghan dentists and Continuing education programs have to be conducted to overcome these hazards.
The Cause of Panic at the Outbreak of Covid-19 in South Africa – A Comparative Analysis With Similar Outbreak in China and New York
Authors:   Global Centre for Academic Research, South Africa, Costa King
Published: September 2024

Lack of proper messaging at an outbreak of a novel disease causes panic with more serious damaging impacts on livelihoods, social-fabric of communities, economic landscapes, and political stability. There have been notable high levels of panic in South Africa and the globe with regard to the outbreak of COVID-19. The current lack of knowledge and poor communication has been attributed as a precursor to the skyrocketing global panic (Freimuth, Linnan, Potter, 2000). Fuelling this panic is the rate at which the incidence of new infections is increasing in countries outside of China, with Italy and Iran leading on a number of new infections and death cases. A Content Analysis method was used to analyze articles, media clips and social network reactions to the outbreak of COVID-19 in South Africa on the 6th of March 2020. The key to the investigation was to understand how authorities are communicating with the public on matters of national concern – regarding how they are prepared to deal and handle the outbreak. This study further compares the South African response to China at the outbreak of SARS in 2003. Codes to analyze texts extracted from targeted media and scientific sources and themes were generated and presented. Findings indicate that the general public does not have faith in government authorities, due to a lack of communication. It is perceived that lack of communication is indicative of a lack of preparedness. Contrary to evident panic in South Africa, scientific data indicates that there is no need to panic as a result of the outbreak of COVID-19. Further, a study from the French Institute for Health and Medical Research in 2020 on the prepardness of African countries to handle COVID-19 indicates that South Africa is one of the better-equipped countries in Africa to detect and handle any incidence of COVID-19. This study further recommends that authorities and policy-makers use communications to educate the public far earlier at the onset of epidemic outbreaks, regardless of where it happens as the air-traffic connects global countries, resulting in the potential for disease importation.
An Innovative Method to Deal with the Spread of Aedes albopictus in the Urban Centers of Alessandria used by Citizen
Authors:   Italian Mosquito Control Association, Talbalaghi Asghar , Abbasi Ebrahim , Hassandoust Sahar ,   Italian Mosquito Control Association
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Known for its persistent blood-feeding behavior from dawn to dusk, Aedes albopictus is recognized as one of the most dangerous mosquito species due to its role as a vector for diseases such as dengue. Studies have demonstrated that Aedes albopictus thrives in micro-breeding sites predominantly located on private properties, including abandoned containers and manholes used for rainwater and irrigation. This study investigates an innovative methodology, the TombiniNet, to mitigate the proliferation of Aedes albopictus by engaging citizens in the active management of micro-breeding sites on their properties. Materials and Methods: The study was conducted in Alessandria, a city with approximately 100,000 inhabitants, focusing on a sample of 200 houses and a population of about 5,000 people. Researchers conducted a comprehensive survey and analysis of micro-breeding sites for Aedes albopictus on both private and communal properties. The larval control measures were conducted from April to October, aligning with the peak mosquito breeding season. The study's sample included 51% of houses that allowed researchers access, and within these, 81% had Aedes albopictus larvae, often found in diverse water Containers holes of which basically manholes on villa garden floors. For monitoring the adult populations were used ovitraps that were not placed in private homes but in public areas to monitor and control the mosquito population. Results: The study identified that up to 70% of micro-breeding sites for Aedes albopictus in northern Alessandria were located on private properties. Citizen participation was critical to the success of the intervention, with a marked decrease in the number of adult tiger mosquitoes observed in areas where residents actively managed breeding sites using the TombiniNet. The TombiniNet was particularly effective in private areas, as it could be regularly maintained by residents, preventing debris accumulation that could hinder drainage. Discussion: The findings highlight the importance of engaging citizens in mosquito control programs to effectively manage Aedes albopictus populations in urban areas. The TombiniNet intervention demonstrated that a simple, cost-effective solution could significantly reduce mosquito breeding sites on private properties. By addressing both communal and private breeding sites, a comprehensive and sustainable approach to mosquito management can be achieved, thereby reducing the risk of disease transmission. Future studies should focus on long-term monitoring and the development of additional innovative solutions to enhance citizen participation and control measures. The study's success also pointed out the limitations of applying such interventions in public areas where debris could impede the net's effectiveness.
Evaluating EEG-Based Parameters for Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis Using a Synthetic Dataset
Authors:   Universidade de Aveiro, Portugal, Mongomery Richard Murdoch
Published: September 2024

This study explores the efficacy of using EEG-based parameters to diagnose bipolar disorder. A synthetic dataset was generated, including both correctly diagnosed and misdiagnosed cases, simulating realistic clinical conditions. EEG features such as thetaalpha mean, beta band mean, and coherence measures were used to train a multi-layer perceptron (MLP) model. The model achieved a validation accuracy of 92%, demonstrating strong potential for EEG-based diagnostics. However, challenges such as standardization of electrode configurations and addressing equipment differences are crucial for broader applicability and validity of the findings in diverse clinical settings.
Insights into Readmission Trends Following Inpatient Chemotherapy for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A 30-Day Analysis
Authors:   St. Joseph Medical center, Department of Hematology Oncology, AZ, USA, Gonzalez Miguel , Zamora Diana , Yeung Anthony , Choday Silpa ,   Creighton University School of Health Science, Department of Internal Medicine, AZ, USA
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) has significant morbidity due to its aggressive course and intensive treatment protocols. Understanding the patterns of readmission after inpatient chemotherapy is crucial for optimizing patient care and resource allocation. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of the National Readmission Database among ALL patients who underwent inpatient chemotherapy between 2016 and 2020. We examined trends in 30-day readmission rates, factors associated with readmission, and outcomes such as remission and relapse. Results: A total of 22,483 admissions were analyzed. Of these, 72.5% (16,294) experienced readmission. Notably, the trend in readmission rates declined between 2016 to 2020, dropping from 76.1% to 66.3%. Among the 16,294 readmissions, 3,607 achieved remissions, 10,637 has stable disease and 2,051 had relapsed disease (P<.001). The mean age at remission was at 18.9 years, while non-remission and relapse occurred at older ages (32.2 and 31 years, respectively, P<.001). In terms of insurance, private insurance had the highest readmission rate at 48%, followed by Medicaid at 35%, and Medicare at 12% (P<.001). The odds ratios indicated significant differences: Elective readmissions had a significantly higher risk compared to non-elective readmissions (4.01, 95% CI 3.44 - 4.67, P<.001), Additionally, patients achieving remission had a lower risk of readmission compared to those not achieving remission (0.52, 95% CI 0.42 - 0.64, P=.003), and. relapse (0.52, 95% CI 0.42 - 0.64, P<.001). Conclusion: Our study highlights factors such as relapsed disease, insurance status, elective admissions, and age were associated with higher readmission risk. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions to reduce the rates of readmission and improve outcomes in ALL patients.
Sources of Agriculture Total Factor Productivity Dynamics in Sub-Saharan Africa – Evidence From 44 Countries (1961-2019)
Authors:   Faculty of Development Agriculture and Natural Resources Management, Eastern Technical University of Sierra Leone, Kenema, 00232, Sierra Leone, Maada Baion Yagbasuah , Jianmin Cao , Yunxia Wang ,   College of Economics and Management, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, 130118, China
Published: September 2024

This current research involves the estimation of the dynamics in agricultural total factor productivity (TFP) in 44 countries in the Sub-Saharan African (SSA) region for a period of 59 years (1961–2019). The research was carried out based on the Malmquist productivity index, accomplished with decomposition on technological changes and technical-efficiency changes. Further, the factors influencing total productivity in the region were identified, and using the Tobit model, an econometric modeling assessment of their effect on agricultural TFP was performed. The study established an average annual decline of 0.975 (-2.5%) in agriculture TFP for the sample countries, largely due to a 0.975 (-2.5%) technological regression during the study period. The annual average effect of technical efficiency stood at 1.001 (0.1%), indicating that the sample countries were, on average, efficient in the utilization of their existing technology during the study period. Examination of the factors influencing the dynamics in TFP established that such factors as land policy, good governance, conflict, and population pressure influence TFP dynamics.
Endocytosis and Transport of Silica Nanoparticles in BeWo b30 Cells
Authors:   Department of Pharmacy, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, Beijing, China, Tang Hongbo , Wu Mengyao , Jiang Weijie , He Haibo ,   Hubei Key Laboratory of Natural Products Research and Development, College of Biological and Pharmaceutical Sciences, China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China, He Junyu ,   Department of Clinical Medicine, Basic Medical College of China Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China, Wang Hongwu ,   Department and Institute of Infectious Disease, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Hua Zhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China, Zhang Jihong ,   Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Hubei Clinical Medical Research Centre of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Functional Digestive Diseases, Three Gorges University, Yichang, Hubei, China
Published: September 2024

An understanding of the transport of silica nanoparticles (NPs) across the placental barrier is important in perinatal medicine. The cytotoxicity of silica NPs was investigated in this study. In up-take assays, we examined the size of NPs, as well as the effects of various inhibitors, on the internalization of silica NPs in BeWo b30 cells. The expression levels of PI3K, AKT and GSK3β were assessed after the cells were treated with silica NPs and/or the PI3K/ AKT signaling pathway inhibitor LY294002. The integrity of the cell monolayer was assessed by culturing cells on Transwell inserts and measuring the transepithelial electrical resistance, assessing fluorescein sodium transport, and staining the tight junction protein zonula occludens-1. Silica NPs were spherical in shape, and concentrations <300 μg/mL were not cytotoxic. The internalization of silica NPs with a diameter of 50 nm and 100 nm was greater than that of silica NPs with a diameter of 20 nm. CPZ manifested the most pronounced inhibitory effects with inhibition rates of 20-nm, 50-nm and 100-nm silica NPs reaching 57.5%, 49.6% and 46.9%, respectively, which indicated that silica NPs were internalized through clathrin- and caveolaemediated endocytosis. Furthermore, LY294002 affected the uptake of 100-nm silica NPs dose-dependently. The treatment of cells with silica NPs also elevated the levels of p-PI3K/PI3K, p-AKT/AKT and p-GSK3β/GSK3β, while LY294002 inhibited the levels of these proteins, which manifested that the internalization of silica NPs was regulated by the PI3K/AKT/ GSK3β signaling pathway. Taken collectively, these results provided new insights on the transplacental transport of NPs in perinatal medicine.
Порівняльний аналіз співвідношення «структура – токсичність» серед уперше синтезованих біометалевих дигідроксо-μ-біс(глюконато)дигерманатів(IV)
Authors: Лук’янчук В. Д. , Сейфулліна І. Й. , Ядловський О. Є. , Марцинко О. Е.
Published: September 2024

Актуальність питання, що розглядається в статті, полягає в доцільності адекватного порівняльного аналізу результатів доклінічного дослідження токсикометричних характеристик потенційних лікарських засобів залежно від їхньої хімічної структури зі спробою визначення фармакофора сполуки – лідера в ряду цих сполук.
На етапі порівняльної експериментальної лікарської токсикометрії досліджено у форматі «структура – токсичність» низку вперше цілеспрямовано синтезованих координаційних сполук германію з різними біометалами (магнієм (Mg), манганом (Mn), кобальтом (Co), нікелем (Ni), купрумом (Cu), цинком (Zn), що розглядаються як потенційні лікувально-профілактичні засоби для фармакокорекції кисеньдефіцитних станів організму.
Мета дослідження – провести комплексний порівняльний аналіз співвідношення «структура – токсичність» уперше синтезованих біометалевих дигідроксо-μ-біс(глюконато)дигерманатів(IV) 3d-металів.
Дослідження виконано на статевозрілих мишах-самцях, які попередньо пройшли необхідні карантинні процедури з наступним дотриманням чинних вимог з біоетики.
У токсикометричному експерименті вивчали 6 уперше синтезованих біометалевих дигідроксо-μ-біс(глюконато)дигерманатів(IV) з різними есенціальними мікроелементами (Zn, Mn, Cu, Mg, Co, Ni) за умов одноразового внутрішньоочеревинного (в/о) введення в різних дозах. Усі сполуки, що досліджуються, є водорозчинними. Ступінь токсичності координаційних сполук германію з біометалами визначали за величинами середньосмертельних доз та їхніми довірчими границями. Водночас реєстрували клінічні прояви токсичної дії, а також встановлювали клас небезпеки кожної зі сполук.

Експериментально доведено різний ступінь токсичності всіх досліджених сполук. Так, зокрема встановлено, що найтоксичнішою сполукою є мідьвмісна, LD50 якої становить 25,8 (22 ÷ 30) мг/кг і відноситься до III класу небезпеки, тобто, «помірно токсичних», а найменш токсичною виявилася сполука, до складу якої входить Mg, оскільки величина LD50 складає >1580 мг/кг і є «практично нетоксичною» сполукою (V клас).
Ранжування координаційних сполук германію з різними біометалами на підставі отриманих токсикометричних даних за ступенем зменшення їхньої гострої токсичності (збільшенням величини LD50) має наступний вигляд: Cu > Ni > Zn > Co > Mn > Mg.
У статті розглядаються можливі механізми токсичної дії германійорганічних сполук залежно від мікроелементу, що входить до їхнього складу.
Los actos escolares desde una mirada crítica y constructivista, en el final del Siglo XIX e inicios del Siglo XX.
Authors: Aguirre Romina
Published: September 2024

El presente escrito tiene como objeto el análisis de “los actos escolares”, entre  1880 y 1920  en Argentina, producto de la consolidación del Estado-nación. Dicha situación promovió la institucionalización de la escuela como aparato legitimador de un capital cultural y  simbólico, que delineó y planificó la celebración de un conjunto de efemérides patrias, cuyo objetivo primordial era y sigue siendo la formación y construcción de una identidad nacional. Cabe aclarar que dicha investigación es parte de mi formación como estudiante de la Maestría en Didácticas Específicas de la Universidad Nacional del Litoral.