bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural network-based method for determining vessel position by seabed relief
Authors: Deryabin V. V.
Published: November 2023

A seabed relief-based vessel position fixing model on the basis of a four-layered feedforward neural network is proposed. Hidden neurons have hyperbolic tangent activation functions. The model is constructed for 1-D case that can be considered as vessel motion throw a narrow channel or alongside fairway axis. A sequence of spot soundings is given for the network input. The linear coordinate registered for the last sounding forms the network output. The training set is formed by means of the intentional pseudorandom alteration of input samples in accordance with suspected limits of sea level variations and the constant error of its measurements. The validation set is not used. The Adamax algorithm is implemented for the neural network training. The maximum of absolute value of the prediction error is used as a performance criterion of the net. Modeling has been conducted with the Python programming language. The Tensorflow library is used for the creation, training and testing of the neural network. The depth is modelled as a piecewise polynomial function of the coordinate. The results of neural network testing with the use of noised input samples let to state that the neural net can determine a ship position by means of soundings with acceptable accuracy. Different combinations of the sea level error and the number of hidden neurons have been considered. For each of such combinations the network accuracy indicators have been calculated. The best results are obtained for the network with 100 hidden neurons per each layer.
Efficiency of limiting nitrogen oxides emissions by exhaust gas recirculation systems of marine internal combustion engines
Authors: Zhivljuk G. E. , Petrov A. P.
Published: November 2023

The subject of this study is systems for ensuring environmental safety of marine internal combustion engines, in particular, technologies for limiting emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx). The regulatory requirements for reducing emissions are presented in the paper. The main theoretical aspects of the problem of nitrogen oxides formation during combustion in a diesel engine are considered. On the basis of these theoretical aspects the effectiveness of using various methods to achieve the requirements for the permissible level of NOx concentration in the exhaust gases is assessed. Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems are considered as the main technologies; they allow achieving the highest indicators of nitrogen oxide emissions control in accordance with the requirements of the Tier 3 standard. Taking into account the peculiarities of the requirements for the design and layout of systems as part of a ship power plant, as well as operational and investment costs, the main attention in the work is paid to systems of indirect influence on the engine in-cylinder processes, which include exhaust gas recirculation systems. Based on the comparison of high and low pressure EGR, the advantages and disadvantages of the designs are determined. It is noted that high-pressure exhaust gas recirculation systems have a number of advantages, which primarily include the compactness and high speed of the system response to changes in operational conditions. On the example of the leading manufacturers developments, the potential capabilities of the high-pressure EGR system and the engine characteristics confirming the effectiveness of its use are demonstrated. Based on the results of the work, a conclusion about the high efficiency and expediency of using exhaust gas recirculation systems to meet the requirements of the current environmental safety standards of ship power plants is made.
EP Rounds: Para-Hisian pacing: Beware what you capture
Authors: H Ojas Mehta , Zyl Martin van
Published: November 2023

A 78 year old lady sought medical attention for palpitations with
documented regular wide complex tachycardia with a left bundle branch
block (figure [1](#fig-cap-0001)) as well as atrial fibrillation.
She presented for a catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation and
presumed CTI-dependent atrial flutter. As a part of the procedure, we
performed an electrophysiology study. We performed pacing manoeuvres to
evaluate for the presence of a concealed accessory pathway. She had an
underlying left bundle branch block observed in sinus rhythm. Results of
para-Hisian pacing maneuver are displayed in figure
[2](#fig-cap-0002) with intracardiac electrograms and corresponding
12-lead ECG. Para-Hisian pacing is performed at a constant pacing
interval through the distal electrode of the His bundle catheter. There
is a decapolar catheter in the coronary sinus with the proximal
electrode positioned at the Os. Here are some questions to consider:
There are 4 different paced morphologies observed. What does each one of
these represent? How can we interpret the findings of this maneuver?
What role does pre-existing left bundle branch block play in our
interpretation?
In Staphylococcus aureus , the acyl-CoA synthetase MbcS supports branched-chain fatty acid synthesis from carboxylic acid and aldehyde precursors
Authors: Brinsmade Shaun R. , Ferreira Marcelle C. dos Santos , Pendleton Augustus , Yeo Won-Sik , Gadea Fabiana C. Málaga , Camelo Danna , McGuire Maeve
Published: November 2023

In the human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus, branched-chain fatty
acids (BCFAs) are the most abundant fatty acids in membrane
phospholipids, and strains deficient for their synthesis experience
BCFAs auxotrophy in laboratory culture and attenuated virulence during
infection. Thus, membrane integrity is essential for S. aureus
pathogenesis. Furthermore, the membrane of S. aureus is among the
main targets for antibiotic therapy. Therefore, determining the
mechanisms involved in BCFAs synthesis is critical to manage S.
aureus infections. Here, we report that overexpression of the bona fide
acyl-CoA synthetase gene mbcS (formerly SAUSA300_2542) restores
BCFAs synthesis in strains lacking the canonical biosynthetic pathway
catalyzed by the branched-chain a-keto acid dehydrogenase (BKDH)
complex. We demonstrate that the acyl-CoA synthetase activity of MbcS
activates branched-chain carboxylic acids, and is required by S.
aureus to utilize the isoleucine derivative 2-methylbutyraldehyde to
restore BCFAs synthesis in S. aureus. Based on the ability of
some staphylococci to convert branched-chain aldehydes into their
respective branched-chain carboxylic acids and our findings
demonstrating that branched-chain aldehydes are in fact BCFAs
precursors, we propose that MbcS promotes the scavenging of exogenous
branched-chain carboxylic acids (BCCAs) and mediates branched-chain
fatty acids synthesis via a de novo alternative pathway.
Human Resource Management Practices on Job Satisfaction in selected Private Universities in South West, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Management Sciences Bamidele Olumilua University of Education,  Science and Technology, Ikere Ekiti, Aremu Fayokemi Eunice
Published: November 2023

This study examined the effect of Human Resource Management (HRM) practices on job satisfaction in private universities in South West, Nigeria. Descriptive research design was adopted for the study. The study population frame is 3,261 (three thousand two hundred and sixty-one) involving all academic staff members from the selected private universities in South West, Nigeria. The Taro Yamane formula was used to statistically determine the sample size, which was 356 (three hundred and fifty-six). The study used a well-structured questionnaire to collected responses from the respondents. Descriptive statistics employed for data analysis were frequency counts, simple percentages, mean scores, and standard deviations, while the inferential statistics utilized was the multiple regression with the aid of SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 23. The results of the study revealed that, HRM practices were found to have a positive effect on job satisfaction at a few private universities in South West, Nigeria (β=.768; t = 13.972, p<.05). The study concluded that the adoption of HRM practices such as flexible work plan, transport benefits, employee compensation, has improved organizational performance in private universities in South West Nigeria. The study therefore recommended that to allow for increased organizational performance, the variables of HRM practices such as flexible work plan, transport benefits, employee compensation needs to be employed by universities and it should be modelled in such a way that the employers can employ it for their university operations. Keywords: HRM Practices, Job Satisfaction, Private Universities, South West, Nigeria. Journal Reference Format: Aremu, F.E. (2023): Human Resource Management Practices on Job Satisfaction in selected Private Universities in South West, Nigeria. Humanities, Management, Arts, Education & the Social Sciences Journal. Vol. 11. No. 4, Pp 25-36. www.isteams.net/humanitiesjournal. dx.doi.org/10.22624/AIMS/HUMANITIES/V11N4P3
Review of The Definition of Smart Cities
Authors:   Department of Architecture University of Ibadan Ibadan, Nigeria, Oladunmoye Oluranti Mobolaji , Obakin, Olufunmilola Adetayo
Published: November 2023

The rapid growth of urban areas necessitates the need for cities to adopt innovative strategies in addressing various challenges such as traffic congestion, air pollution, elevated crime rates, waste management difficulties, inefficient energy usage, and more. In response to the escalating urban issues, a collaborative effort has emerged among local government bodies, businesses, non-profit organizations, and the residents themselves, all united by the vision of creating smarter cities. The smart city concept centers on the harmonious integration and synergy of human capital, social assets, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) infrastructure. Its objective is to promote sustainable economic development and make better the overall quality of life. This paper therefore focused to define smart cities and ways of improving smartness of city. It also adopted review of literatures to explore the elements and components of smart city in order to arrive at a comprehensive definition of smart city. Keywords: Smart Cities, ICTs, Congestion, Businesses, Review. Journal Reference Format: Oladunmoye, O.M. & Obakin, O.A. (2023): Review of The Definition of Smart Cities. Social Informatics, Business, Politics, L:aw, Environmental Sciences & Technology Journal. Vol. 9, No. 3. Pp 1-8 www.isteams/socialinformaticsjournal. dx.doi.org/10.22624/AIMS/SIJ/V9N3P1.
Glymphatic dysfunction in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases and pathological aging
Authors: Shirolapov Igor V. , Zakharov Alexander V. , Bulgakova Svetlana V. , Khivintseva Elena V. , Sergeeva Mariya S. , Romanchuk Natalia P. , Pavlova Olga N. , Kazantsev Victor B.
Published: November 2023

Recently, the concept of the glymphatic system as a highly organized perivascular network has been formed, which by hydrodynamic approach, with the key participation of aquaporin-4 as a central molecule, connects the cerebrospinal fluid with the lymphatic vessels of the meninges through the brain interstitium. The latest scientific works demonstrates the potential role of glymphatic dysfunction in the development of neurodegeneration and pathological aging. Although the precise molecular mechanisms of glymphatic pathway function have not yet been fully characterized, the critical processes underlying cerebral solute transport and clearance of amyloid and metabolites have been largely elucidated. The complex interaction between a number of age-associated factors, including cellular aging, disturbances in the sleep-wake cycle with changes in sleep architecture and quality, low-grade systemic inflammation, and the development of concomitant diseases, determines not only life expectancy in general, but also forms the basis of healthy and unhealthy aging the brain in particular. Imbalances in homeostatic functions, changes in the activity of glymphatic clearance and the blood-brain barrier that support the exchange of fluid and solutes in cerebral tissue, which can be observed both normally with physiological aging and with the development of neuropathology, have longitudinal consequences ranging from disruption of synaptic signal transmission to onset of neurodegenerative processes.
This review analyzes the current scientific information in this area of research, details the features of the perivascular glial-mediated transport system, and discusses how its dysfunction plays a fundamental role in the pathological accumulation of metabolites during aging, the development of age-associated changes in the brain, and the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
Competencias administrativas y de gestión en la práctica odontológica
Authors: Morales García Manuel Higinio , Felipe López Reyna , López Alvarado Miguel Ángel , Calderón Neira Jacqueline del Rocío
Published: November 2023

La práctica odontológica actual requiere de profesionales con competencias administrativas y gerenciales que le permitan otorgar un mejor servicio. La atención odontológica no solo es un proceso de asistencia médica, sino que hay una relación entre un prestador de servicios profesionales y un usuario, y en dicha interrelación existe una secuencia de hechos congruentes entre una necesidad y un satisfactor, lo cual incluye diversos factores, como insumos, infraestructura y personal para que dicho proceso sea efectivo. Objetivo: Identificar las competencias administrativas y de gestión que posee el profesional de la odontología. Metodología: Estudio exploratorio, descriptivo y transversal en un grupo de profesionales activos. El tamaño muestral fue de 275 entrevistados. Resultados: Se determinó la importancia del trabajo en equipo, lo cual fue considerado como esencial por el 35.6 % para alcanzar los objetivos y metas. En relación con el conocimiento de aspectos administrativos, el 54.2 % opinó que no tiene ningún conocimiento relacionado con esta área. Solo el 10.18 % establece la planeación en los procesos de promoción y difusión de servicios. Conclusiones: El ejercicio profesional implica que el odontólogo requiere de conocimientos básicos de administración que le faciliten maximizar sus procesos y lograr un mejor desempeño en el ejercicio de su profesión, ser competitivo, innovador y emprendedor, por lo que es preciso establecer estrategias dirigidas a capacitar con conocimiento administrativo al profesional de la odontología para fortalecer su actividad profesional y brindar servicios de calidad y eficiencia.
Lecturer Forecasting and Professor Acceleration using Bussiness Intelligence
Authors: Tamtosutrisno Bambang Sundari , Fitriawan Helmy , Mardiana Mardiana
Published: November 2023

Universities must be allowed to compete and increase public accountability and competitiveness in order to enhance the quality of education. Human resources, such as professors and educational staff, are one of the supporting aspects. Lecturers are one of the most significant markers for gauging the viability and quality of academic programs and postsecondary institutions. Lecturer data evolves according to educational level, functional position and tenure (retirement) which need to be monitored and anticipated as data to help strategic planning for the next few years to improve the quality and accountability of a tertiary institution. Data sources that are validated and linked with legally authorized data sources are required to support business intelligence in the decision-making processes of policymakers and institutional leaders.
Challenges and Opportunities for Halal Tourism in Banyumas
Authors: Sarpini Sarpini , Aziz Jamal Abdul
Published: November 2023

The tourism sector is one of the sectors that has an important role in the Indonesian economy. Since the concept of halal tourism emerged in early 2010, various reactions have emerged to the development of halal tourism. This year, Indonesia won the title of Top Muslim Friendly Destination of the Year 2023 in the Mastercard Crescent Rating Global Muslim Travel Index (GMTI) 2023 in Singapore. Indonesia's halal tourism rose to number one from the previous number two. This increase is an extraordinary achievement. In 2021, Indonesia is ranked fourth and in 2022 second. As one of the regencies in Central Java located south of Mount Slamet, Banyumas has many natural tourist destinations. Diversity of tourism such as nature tourism, religious tourism, to educational tourism is available in Banyumas. The beauty of this tourism can be seen from the number of tourists both from within and outside the region who visit. The increase in Muslim tourists is an opportunity and challenge to improve the tourism sector in Banyumas. This research uses qualitative research methods. This qualitative research method is used as a research procedure that produces descriptive data. This research concludes that Banyumas Regency as one of the regencies in Central Java Province is known to have tourism potential that is very potential to be developed. The development of halal tourism in Banyumas still has many challenges, namely air transportation access is not yet available. Tourism destinations are not yet evenly distributed, many are concentrated in the Baturraden area. Facilities and infrastructure supporting tourism activities still need to be improved in quality and quantity. Tourism attractions are less varied. There have not been many promotional events carried out related to halal tourism. In addition to the challenges, there are certainly many opportunities for halal tourism in Banyumas, namely the strength of the natural and geographical conditions of Banyumas Regency, which is dominated by a fairly large mountainous area. There are many waterfalls and other water tourism attractions. Location on the South Java crossing route. There are several destinations with religious nuances.
Multicultural Islamic Education in the Fatwa of the Indonesian Ulema Council on Digital Da'wah Ethics
Authors: Widoyo Agus Fatuh , Zulihi Zulihi , Islamy Athoillah , Abduh Muhammad
Published: November 2023

Exclusive, intolerant, and radical da'wah content on various social media platforms is a challenge for Islamic da'wah in today's digital era. This qualitative study through a normative-philosophical approach aims to identify and explore the dimensions of multicultural Islamic education values in the fatwa of the Indonesian Ulema Council of East Java Province Number. 06 of 2022 concerning Da'wah Ethics in the Digital Era. The theory of multicultural Islamic education conceptualized by Azyumardi Azra becomes the theory of analysis of the subject matter of this study. Data analysis through reduction, presentation, and verification. This study shows the content of multicultural Islamic education values in legal provisions related to da'wah ethics in the dital room in the fatwa of the Indonesian Ulema Council of East Java Province, including the value of humanism education in the prohibition of the delivery of da'wah content that spreads hatred and insults even for the reason of amar makruf nahi munkar. Then, the value of tasamuh education in the recommendation of delivering pluralist da'wah content, which is able to respect Islamic beliefs that are still being debated. Furthermore, the value of peace education in advocating the delivery of nationalist da'wah content. Next, the value of wasatiyah education in recommending the delivery of da'wah content that maintains public conduciveness and stability. The theoretical implications of this study affirm that the mainstreaming of multicultural Islamic educational values can be internalized through religious social fatwas in Indonesia, as well as fatwas related to da'wah ethics in the digital space.
Predictores de Interacción Online y Medios Públicos: quiénes comentan y comparten el contenido de TVE en Redes Sociales
Authors: Campos-Rueda Marcela
Published: November 2023

Dado el papel de las redes sociales en la configuración del debate público y que, para un creciente número de ciudadanos, son hoy la principal puerta de entrada a la información, resulta vital comprender cuál es el alcance e impacto de los medios públicos en estos ecosistemas. A partir de una encuesta representativa de la población española adulta (N = 1.717), este trabajo explora el perfil de quienes comentan y comparten los contenidos online de TVE y cuáles son los principales predictores de este comportamiento. A nivel descriptivo, los resultados muestran una baja exposición de los ciudadanos a los contenidos de TVE en redes sociales y una escasa interacción. El 69.4 % de la muestra declaró que nunca o casi nunca ha compartido contenido de TVE en redes sociales y el 71 % que nunca o casi nunca los ha comentado. Los hallazgos de una regresión lineal permiten establecer que el consumo de noticias online está positivamente asociado al ‘engagement’, mientras que las percepciones de influencia política sobre los contenidos lo están negativamente. Frente a la caída del consumo lineal, es deber de los medios públicos buscar nuevas vías de contacto con sus audiencias. Los resultados obtenidos reafirman la necesidad de profundizar esta búsqueda e implementar estrategias para generar conversación con la ciudadanía. Su éxito depende tanto de recursos tecnológicos y el atractivo de los contenidos como también de la capacidad de los medios de servicio público para sostener sus valores tradicionales, particularmente, su independencia.
Discontinuous Urban Growth: A Discussion from the Perspective of Sustainability
Authors: Veiga Artur José Pires , Veiga Daniela Andrade Monteiro
Published: November 2023

Objective: The study analyzes the phenomenon of discontinuity in the growth of the urban fabric directly related to planning, urbanization and the sustainability of municipal management. The analyzes presented are directed to the case study of Vitória da Conquista, in the State of Bahia, Brazil.
 
Theoretical framework: The study brings theoretical reflections on the issue of discontinuity in the city's urban fabric, correlating it to spatial segregation; public policy; optimization of installed infrastructure; the urban voids generated by real estate speculation, the actions of space transforming agents.
 
Method: The Geographic Information System was used as a methodological instrument, with geoprocessing resources, using orbital data in raster format (satellite images) obtained from the National Institute for Space Research (INPE), and vector cartographic bases available at IBGE.
 
Results and conclusion: The growth of the city of Vitória da Conquista over the years resulted in a morphology with the creation of urban voids, with speculative purposes, where residual spaces were created with discontinuous growth, in a logic that restructures spaces in the urban area.
 
Implications of the research: Access to urban rights or the right to the city of an indivisible nature, guaranteed by the 1988 constitution to all inhabitants of the city, of present and future generations. The equity of living, enjoying and participating in the production of fair, inclusive and sustainable cities.
 
Originality/value: This research has academic value, as it supports public policies and urban planning, with the originality of the discussions presented.
Spatial and Environmental Influence on the Community of Aquatic Insects in Atlantic Forest Streams
Authors: Souza Francine Novais , Da Silva Rodolfo Mariano Lopes , Campiolo Sofia
Published: November 2023

Purpose: Investigate the influence of environmental variables and spatial autocorrelation on aquatic insect communities within the same water flow in Atlantic Forest streams.
 
Theoretical framework: The organisms in lotic environments are influenced by both local and non-local factors, in addition to other processes, which result from the dynamics of the environment. Alterations in these factors can provide evidence regarding the organization of aquatic communities. Given the high sensitivity insect are used in ecosystems quality studies around the world.
 
Method: Sampling campaigns were conducted every three months. A total of twenty-four samples were collected across four campaigns and six collection sites were established along the same stream. In-situ measurements of physical and chemical variables were performed. The environmental quality of the surroundings was assessed using the Habitat Integrity Index.
 
Results and conclusion: No spatial dependence was found between the sampling sites. Closer points no longer exhibited resemblance. For the studied situation, the surrounding and turbidity have a stronger relationship with the biota, acting as environmental filters and suggesting that the organization of is driven by local environmental conditions. Environments that are locally less disturbed are more influential in shaping for aquatic insect communities. Thus, considering the effect of habitats on organisms and recognizing the importance of local conservation efforts for preserving the aquatic biodiversity of the Atlantic Forest biome, we emphasize need for the implementation permanent monitoring programs in hydrographic basins, mainly for the BHRA, and the development of strategies aimed at minimizing the impacts on these environments.
 
Research implications: We affirm the applicability of aquatic insects as valuable indicators for assessing the quality and biodiversity of streams and suggest studies with these organisms as a strategy to support management in freshwater environments.
 
Originality/value: Studies that evaluate water bodies and their surroundings are essential in view of the pressures exerted through the different land uses. The study region deserves attention in view of the implementation of large constructions.
Canada's Refugee Status Determination Procedures
Authors: Refuge Editor
Published: November 2023

Access to the Refugee Determination Procedure• Efficient and Expeditious Procedures• Oral Hearing• Quality Decision Making• Right to Information about the Procedure• Right to Counsel• Right to Interpreters• Reasonable Time Limitations
O uso da planta Kalanchoe Pinnata (CORAMA) no processo de cicatrização de úlceras gástricas
Authors: Sousa Ana Paula Aguiar da Silva , Silva Raurimar da Silva , Oliveira Adriano dos Santos
Published: November 2023

Objetivo: Descrever sobre os benefícios da planta Kalanchoe Pinnata (CORAMA) na cicatrização de ferimentos sobretudo no processo inflamatório de úlceras gástricas. Revisão bibliográfica: O uso da planta no processo de cicatrização de úlceras gástricas vem sendo utilizada como coadjuvante no tratamento da enfermidade e como uma alternativa terapêutica em outras doenças trazendo resultados positivos. Com base nos estudos a planta possui potencial ação terapêutica pois promove ação antibacteriana, antiviral, antisséptica, cicatrizante, diurética, antifúngica entre outras. Considerações finais:  A partir dos estudos, pode se considerar  que a planta estudada possui efeito anti-inflamatório, gastroprotetora, com poder de regeneração da mucosa gástrica, contém substâncias naturais com múltiplas propriedades pois não tem na sua natureza química potencial tóxico. Outrossim, a planta acima descrita tem o seu valor de acordo com os conceitos existentes e poderá contribuir nas pesquisas e na formação de estudos significativos para a ciência, sendo objeto de interesse empresarial e opção terapêutica ofertada pelo Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS).
Palliative Care Need in India: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Chandra Ankit , Debnath Aninda , Nongkynrih Baridalyne
Published: November 2023

Background:

To achieve sustainable development goal 3.8, countries must prioritise the provision of palliative care. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of palliative care needs in India.

Methods:

A systematic literature search was conducted in databases of PubMed, Cochrane, Embase, Web of Science, and EBSCO Host. We included community-based studies published in English between inception and April 30, 2023. We excluded hospital-based studies that were conducted solely including diseased patients. Data were extracted independently, and a quality assessment was performed. To estimate the pooled prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (CI), we used the random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using the Q statistic and I2test. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on the study site, urban–rural distribution, gender, and age groups. Publication bias was evaluated using a funnel plot and Egger test. STATA software was used for data analysis.

Results:

Out of the 2632 articles identified, 8 cross-sectional studies were included. Using the random-effects model, the pooled estimate of palliative care needs was found to be 6.21/1000 population (95% CI: 2.42–11.64). The southern region showed a prevalence of 10.83/1000 compared to 2.24/1000 in the northern region. Urban areas had a prevalence of 3.34/1000, while rural areas had a prevalence of 7.69/1000. Among females, the prevalence was 9.64/1000, compared to 6.77/1000 among males. Notably, individuals aged over 60 years had a higher prevalence of palliative care needs, with a rate of 37.86/1000 population.

Conclusion:

This systematic review and meta-analysis highlight a substantial need for palliative care in India, with a prevalence of 6.21 individuals/1000 population.
Palliative Care in Drug Resistance Tuberculosis: An Overlooked Component in Management
Authors: Rai Deependra Kumar , Sharma Priya
Published: November 2023

Palliative care should be an important component in the management of drug resistant tuberculosis (DRTB); however, it is not given much importance. Even in the current scenario, many patients and their caregivers consider multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) as a terminal illness and considering it almost as a death sentence, this group of patients also require palliative care. There is a misconception about considering palliative care as a treatment component in the terminal stage of an illness where curative treatment has no role in improving the survival of the patient. However, the real meaning of palliative care is to relieve suffering in all stages of the disease and is not limited to end-of-life care only. Palliative care in DRTB aims to improve the quality of life, intractable symptoms and physical, psychosocial and spiritual suffering of patients as well as their caregivers. There is an imminent need to train all TB healthcare workers regarding basic palliative care and integrate palliative care into the TB healthcare system.
CLINICAL EFFICACY OF THE APPLICATION OF POOLED MESENCHIMAL STEM CELLS OF THE OLFACTORY LINING FOR THE TREATMENT OF PATIENTS WITH SEVERE COMMUNITY-ACQUIRED PNEUMONIA COMPLICATED BY ACUTE RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME
Authors:   Institute of Biophysics and Cell Engineering of NAS of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus, Hancharou A. Ye. , Aliakseichyk S. E. ,   Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus, Rynda A. H. ,   Institute of Biophysics and Cell Engineering of NAS of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus, Antonevich N. G. ,   Institute of Biophysics and Cell Engineering of NAS of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus, Pankratova Yu. Yu. ,   Belarusian State Medical University, Minsk, Belarus
Published: November 2023

Background. The difficulty in diagnosing COVID-19 is associated with the heterogeneity of clinical manifestations, and treatment is difficult because the course of the disease varies from asymptomatic to severe viral pneumonia, with a cytokine storm and development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Certain hopes in the treatment of COVID-19 and ARDS are currently pinned on the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), due to their ability to influence the immune system and activate the regeneration of damaged tissues. The aim of the study was to improve the clinical efficacy of existing methods of treating patients with severe community-acquired pneumonia complicated by acute respiratory distress syndrome using cell therapy with pooled MSCs. Material and methods. The subjects of the study were patients with COVID-19-associated pneumonia (U07.1 according to ICD-10), severe course, acute respiratory syndrome (U04) (study group (n=14) and comparison group (n=18)). Clinical and laboratory studies were carried out by routine methods using commercial test systems. Results. Good tolerability and safety of the method of treatment of patients with severe COVID-19 complicated by ARDS using pooled MSCs were shown. 57% of patients who received pooled MSCs did not need to be transferred to mechanical ventilation in the next 7 days. In the study group, 43% of patients survived (6 out of 14), which was significantly higher than in the control group (5.6%, 1 out of 18) (z=2.07; p=0.038). A correlation was found between lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels and the outcome of a severe form of coronavirus infection, and criteria were established for selecting patients for cell therapy based on the level of LDH increase by no more than 1.85 times. Administration of pooled MSCs at LDH level higher than 519.8 U/l was ineffective.
MULTIPLE MYELOMA: FEATURES OF THE COURSE AND RESPONSE TO THERAPY IN PATIENTS OF DIFFERENT AGE GROUPS
Authors:   Republican Research Center for Radiation Medicine and Human Ecology, Gomel, Belarus, Kozich Zh. M. , Martinkov V. N. ,   Republican Research Center for Radiation Medicine and Human Ecology, Gomel, Belarus, Pugacheva J. N. ,   Republican Research Center for Radiation Medicine and Human Ecology, Gomel, Belarus, Klimkovich N. N. ,   Belarusian Medical Academy for Postgraduate Education, Minsk, Belarus
Published: November 2023

Background: Multiple myeloma (MM) remains an incurable disease with the development of relapses, sometimes with an uncontrolled course leading to death regardless of the age of the patient. The use of new schemes and methods of treatment has not only significantly improved outcomes in younger MM patients but also improved the quality of life and survival in people over 65 years of age. Objective: to determine the clinical features of the course of the disease and response to therapy in patients of different age groups with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. Material and Methods: An analysis of the data of 139 patients with newly diagnosed MM was carried out. The median follow-up was 25 months, with a maximum of 58 months. Patients were divided into study groups depending on age at the time of diagnosis: the first group - age up to 65 years (n=65); the second group - age from 65 years and older (n=74). The material of the study was clinical and anamnestic data, the results of laboratory blood tests: biochemical analysis and immunochemical analysis. All the patients underwent the whole body CT scan, diffusely weighted whole body MRI and bone marrow aspiration biopsy with immunophenotypic study. As an induction therapy, according to international recommendations, courses of chemotherapy were used using various regimens containing bortezomib, depending on age and comorbidity. Results. The MM variant with IgA secretion occurred 1.76 times more often in the first group (p=0.128). In the first group hypercalcemia was somewhat more common (2.4 times, p=0.099) and an excess of LDH levels (2.9 times, p=0.072). In contrast, the presence of infectious complications (by 1.2 times, p=0.392), excess of the level of β2-microglobulin > 3 mg/l (by 1.6 times, p=0.086) and kidney damage (by 1.45 times, p=0.037) were more common in the second group, and in the latter case the differences were statistically significant. Disease stage (p=0.0001), excess of β2 microglobulin level (p=0.004), excess of LDH level (p=0.03), presence of anemic syndrome (p=0.003), hypercalcemia (p=0.02), presence of infectious complications (p=0.01) at the time of diagnosis were predictors of worse survival in the general group of MM patients. Conclusion. The active use of new therapeutic strategies and regimens improves treatment outcomes not only in patients under 65 years of age, but also in older patients. New studies are needed to identify prognostic factors in individuals of different age groups in order to start personalized therapy and improve treatment outcomes.
ANALYSIS OF PHYSICIAN STAFFING WITHIN THE INFECTIOUS DISEASES SERVICE OF THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS IN 2016-2022
Authors:   Ministry of Health of the Republic of Belarus, Minsk, Belarus, Krotkova E. N. , Kratenok V. E. ,   Republican Scientific and Practical Center of Medical Technologies, Informatization, Management and Economics of Healthcare, Minsk, Belarus, Yasyulya T. V. ,   Republican Scientific and Practical Center of Medical Technologies, Informatization, Management and Economics of Healthcare, Minsk, Belarus, Ihumnava K. S. ,   Republican Scientific and Practical Center of Medical Technologies, Informatization, Management and Economics of Healthcare, Minsk, Belarus, Khauratovich V. M. ,   Republican Scientific and Practical Center of Medical Technologies, Informatization, Management and Economics of Healthcare, Minsk, Belarus, Kulinkina V. V. ,   Republican Scientific and Practical Center of Medical Technologies, Informatization, Management and Economics of Healthcare, Minsk, Belarus
Published: November 2023

The article considers the indicators of the staff composition within the infectious diseases service of the Republic of Belarus in different periods from an epidemic point of view. Calculations of infectiologists staffing levels and positions held concurrently as well as the approximate number of specialists involved in providing medical care to patients with a confirmed diagnosis of a new coronavirus infection (COVID-19), were performed, the daily workload per infectious disease doctor was assessed.
INTRATHORACIC LYMPH NODES SARCOIDOSIS. A CLINICAL CASE REPORT IN INTERNAL MEDICINE PRACTICE
Authors:   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Demidik S. N. , Surmach K. M. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Aleksa E. N. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Borisovskaja N. G. ,   Grodno Clinical Hospital №3, Grodno, Belarus
Published: November 2023

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem inflammatory disease of unknown etiology. Thoracic radiography is used to detect pathological changes in the lungs or intrathoracic lymph nodes. The classic image finding of pulmonary sarcoidosis is bilateral, symmetrical hilar and mediastinal lymph nodes enlargement. Lymph nodes are spherical or ovoid shape and homogeneous structure, with smooth clear contours, and without perifocal infiltration and sclerosis. Atypical manifestations of intrathoracic lymphadenopathy in sarcoidosis can be detected rarely. The presented clinical case indicates the importance of high-resolution computed tomography in patients with intrathoracic lymphadenopathy syndrome. It has to be noted that the detection of unilateral or asymmetric enlargement of hilar lymph nodes, the enlargement of mediastinal and pericardial groups of lymph nodes does not exclude sarcoidosis as a possible cause of pathology and requires morphological confirmation of the diagnosis. The case is discussed from the standpoint of personalized medicine and clinical recommendations.
THE FACULTY FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: RESULTS AND ACHIEVEMENT
Authors:   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Stenko A. A. , Hushchyna L. N. ,   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus
Published: November 2023

The article reflects the achievements of the Faculty for International Students at the Grodno State Medical University over the past 10 years. Positions on the world stage, results in training of medical professionals for the foreign countries, successes in organizational and administrative activities, educational and methodological work, extra-curricular activities are presented.
KRYUCHOK GRIGORY ROMANOVICH – FOUNDER OF HISTORY OF MEDICINE IN BELARUS AS A SCIENCE
Authors:   Grodno State Medical University, Grodno, Belarus, Khilmonchik N. E.
Published: November 2023

This year marks the 105th anniversary of the birth of the outstanding scientist, historian of medicine and public figure Grigory Romanovich Kryuchok. His contribution to the development of medicine in Belarus cannot be underestimated, because he not only created the basis for historical medical science in the country, but also left an indelible mark in the field of practical health care. Working at the Grodno Medical Institute as the head of the department of social hygiene and healthcare organization from December 1982 to September 1986, G. R. Kryuchok worked to create a museum of the history of medicine in the Grodno region. The scientific activity of Grigory Romanovich at the Grodno Medical Institute was multifaceted. The restoration of the activities of the Grodno Scientific Society of Medical Historians was important for the medical community of Grodno.
Los orígenes de la simbiosis perversa entre el movimiento obrero y la política en México
Authors: Cedillo Fernández Sergio Miguel
Published: November 2023

Luis Morones Negrete nació en 1890 en el seno de una familia de escasos recursos. Durante su juventud se mantuvo distante de la insurgencia maderista, pero no del activismo sindical que emergió a la par de las luchas revolucionarias. En 1915 fue partícipe de un movimiento huelguístico, iniciando una trayectoria vertiginosa, que en muy poco tiempo lo llevaría a formar parte de la élite gobernante y a ser reconocido como uno de los principales líderes obreros del siglo xx, con presencia a nivel internacional, encabezando al Grupo Acción y a la CROM. ¿Cómo logró transitar de la marginalidad al encumbramiento? ¿Qué elementos le permitieron adquirir poder e influencia a pesar de las fluctuaciones en la política del periodo posrevolucionario? ¿Cuáles fueron las causas que llevaron finalmente a diluir ese poder? ¿Por qué a pesar de su declive se mantuvo como una figura polémica hasta su muerte en 1964? En este libro, Sergio Cedillo ofrece estas y otras respuestas al entretejer la biografía de un hombre que utilizó todos los medios a su alcance, incluyendo la violencia, para alcanzar sus objetivos, pero que hasta sus más enconados críticos y detractores lo reconocieron como una figura clave del sindicalismo en México. También revela la necesidad de estudiar a los personajes que, como Morones, jugaron un papel de primer orden dentro de la clase política, proporcionando elementos que ayuden al análisis de los factores que dieron vigencia y continuidad al sistema político mexicano.
Documentation and redefinition of the "Nongkulang hill series" and hitherto unreported Eocene-Oligocene transition sediments, Meghalaya, India
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Sanjay Kumar
Published: November 2023

Richly fossiliferous calc-argillaceous sediments interbedded between the carbonates of the 'Nummulitic series' and the sandstone-shale of the 'new series' around Nongkulang in the West Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India, were originally designated as the Nongkulang hill series. The series was not considered as a formal unit due to the very thin succession and local nature of the sediments. In the Garo Hills and Khasi Hills, this lithosuccession was previously correlated with the Kopili Stage,whose stratotype is non calcareous and largely unfossiliferous. Successive occurrences of late Eocene and early Oligocene foraminifera in the uninterrupted calc-argillaceous sediments in the Therria section suggest the presence of an Eocene-Oligocene boundary succession. Since the calc-argillaceous sediments closely resembled the Nongkulang series these were examined to determine whether the Nongkulang qualifies for an independent lithounit or a part of the Kopili Stage. The Nongkulang series was mapped and its stratigraphic sections measured via river and road outcrops in a stretch from the Someswari (= Simsang) River in the Garo Hills to the Therria nala in Khasi Hills.With definite lithocontacts, lateral continuity, and variation in lithology and fauna, the series is justified as a formal lithounit characterized by small size Nummulites, ooids and thin impure limestone beds, and divisible into lower, middle and uppermembers. It is redefined and described as the Nongkulang Formation and assigned late Eocene to early Oligocene age based on integrated larger and planktonic foraminiferal biostratigraphy. Atentative Eocene-Oligocene boundary is documented in the middle member. The associated Prang and Kopili formations are also refined and revised. The Nongkulang Formation corresponds to the Eocene-Oligocene transition and contains terminal Eocene biostratigraphic events. These new sites documenting the Eocene to Oligocene succession may be potentially useful to study sea level changes in NE India and adjoining Bangladesh.
High-resolution biostratigraphic analysis of the Cretaceous-Paleogene Boundary in the Kurdistan Region (NW Iraq)
Authors: Bamerni Abdulrahman , Al-Qayim Basim , Hammoudi Rund Ali , Frontalini Fabrizio
Published: November 2023

A stratigraphical challenge has long been associated with the debatable K/Pg boundary-transition in Iraq, particularly in the high folded zone of the western Zagros fold-thrust belt (Kurdistan Region). However, dissensions regarding the boundary have remained controversial. Because of differing interpretations most of the previous studies considered it as a hiatus and/or erosional surface. Here, we present a high-resolution investigation of the planktonic foraminiferal biostratigraphy across the K/Pg boundary from three sections (Per Fat, Xezava, and Behere) within the Dohuk and Zakho areas of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. The contact zone shows a lithostratigraphic resemblance and is represented by the upper part of the Shiranish Formation (late Maastrichtian) with the overlying Aaliji Formation (Danian), positioned in a continuous pelagic marlstone that exhibits a change in color from pale blue of the Cretaceous (Shiranish Formation) to light brown at the base of the Paleogene (Aaliji Formation). The biostratigraphic investigations across the studied interval reveal three Upper Cretaceous zones: Pseudoguembelina hariaensis p.p. (CF3) Interval Zone, Pseudoguembelina palpebra (CF2) Interval Zone, and Plummerita hantkeninoides (CF1) Total Range Zone. Four main zones and three subzones of the Danian are recorded: Guembelitria cretacea (P0) Partial Range Zone, Parvularugoglobigerina eugubina (Pa) Total Range Zone, Parasubbotina pseudobulloides (P1) Partial Range Zone (Globoanomalina archaeocompressa (P1a) Partial Range Subzone, Subbotina triloculinoides (P1b) Interval Subzone, Globanomalina compressa - Praemurica inconstans (P1c) Interval Subzone, and Praemurica uncinata p.p. (P2) Interval Zone. High biostratigraphic resolution indicates a complete K/Pg transition with no hiatus at the three studied localities in the Dohuk and Zakho areas.
Conodonts and the correlation of the Lower Permian Yeso Group, New Mexico, USA
Authors: Lucas Spencer G. , Henderson Charles M. , Barrick James E. , Krainer Karl
Published: November 2023

Across much of New Mexico, the Lower Permian Yeso Group is a thick and complex succession of nonmarine fluvial and eolian, evaporitic coastal sabkha and shallow, restricted to openmarine deposits.Yeso strata have long been assigned a Leonardian age because of their lateral equivalence to Leonardian strata of the Bone Spring Formation in the Delaware Basin of southeastern New Mexico-West Texas. However, Yeso strata have also failed to yield many age-diagnostic fossils.We document the first conodont assemblages from Yeso strata, from the lower part of the Los Vallos Formation of the Yeso Group in the Caballo Mountains of south-central New Mexico. These conodonts represent the Neostreptognathodus clinei-N. prayi Zone of middle Kungurian age. The conodonts from the base of the Los Vallos Formation correlate to a position near the base of the Cathedral Mountain Formation of the Leonardian stratotype and indicate that the LosValles Formation is approximately middle Leonardian in age. This correlation also establishes the age of an extensive marine transgression across much of New Mexico.