bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benchmarking anion-exchange membranes for electrocatalytic carbon monoxide reduction
Authors: Jiao Feng
Published: November 2022

Performing carbon monoxide reduction in membrane electrode assembly configuration (MEA) is critical to achieving a high reaction rate while reducing cell resistance. Most studies examine the role of the cathode on product selectivity and cell stability, and comparatively, little attention has been given to the membrane impact on cell performance. This study demonstrates that membrane properties such as water uptake, ion exchange capacity, and functional groups alter the liquid product selectivity. Interestingly, we show that high ethanol crossover in conjunction with a suitable anode (NiFeOx) tunes the acetate selectivity. Overall, membrane properties significantly affect cell stability and product selectivity in a membrane electrode assembly configuration.
How could China’s CO2 Emission Per Capita decrease?The Analysis of Hybrid Influencing Factors and Improving Scenarios
Authors: Wang Dawei , Shen Wenxing , Zhang Shengliang
Published: November 2022

Reducing carbon emissions per capita has been one of the vital goals of sustainable development of the world's energy and human health since the 18th century. Unfortunately, China had become one of the world's largest carbon emitting country for the last 13 years which carbon dioxide emissions accounting for more than 25% of the world's total carbon emissions in 2018. Therefore, this article firstly to apply the IPAT and STIRPAT model to analyze the influencing factors of carbon emissions per capita which will be used to build the VENSIM model. It can be conducted that the main factors including industrial structure, energy structure, population and technology factors and social fixed assets investment. Then, the paper carries out for three simulating scenarios which are baseline scenario, reduction scenario and limited scenario, respectively.The simulation results show that the total CO2 intensity of the limited scenario will reach 0.80 million tons/per yuan as the lowest point in 2030. Finally, the paper combines carbon system simulation results, based on the influence factors of city carbon emissions system, low carbon economy, energy and social system of low carbon city development suggestions are put forward to solve these issues.
Submarine landslide tsunami hazard assessment for the Western Makran based on a deterministic approach
Authors: Nouri Mohammadsadegh , Rashidi Amin , Namin Masoud Montazeri , Shugar Dan H
Published: November 2022

The Makran region, which borders southern Iran and Pakistan along the Gulf of Oman, has experienced multiple tsunamis in the last century, with some being triggered by submarine landslides. However, the role played by submarine landslides has been largely neglected in tsunami hazard assessments in the western Makran. In the present study, four different landslide scenarios with volumes of 10-40 km3 are simulated on 25 different locations in the western Makran, resulting in 100 different hypothetical scenarios. The results indicate that Oman’s coastline, a country in the western part of Makran subduction zone, is more vulnerable to the hazard of landslide-generated waves (maximum average of 3.1 m wave height) compared to Iran (maximum average 0.9 m height). Although Chabahar, Iran, and Muscat, Oman, two major cities in the region, experienced severe waves during some scenarios, it can be implied Muscat is more vulnerable to this kind of tsunami due to the significant gap between the maximum and average wave height for all scenarios. We further discuss that applying hypothetical worst-case scenarios can sometimes lead to an overestimation in tsunami hazard assessment. Therefore, more geological, sedimentological, and geotechnical considerations and studies are required for defining submarine landslide worst-case scenarios.
Cidades-irmãs: ações desenvolvidas sob o amparo da irmandade internacional entre os municípios de Pelotas-Suzu
Authors: SCHIMANSKI Silvana , RODRIGUES Ana Carolina , AVILA Ana Helena , CAPELARI Ana Lucia , PINHEIRO Amanda , SANTOS Caio Menezes dos , SOUZA Cassiane Leonor Santos , ESLABAO Daniel da Rosa , FIRME Gabriela Von Frühauf , VELOSO Gabrielle Bezerra , RUDRIGUES Julia Maria Soares Andrade , BRETANHA Julia , MENEZES Luana , SANTOS Rafaella Gonçalves , FELISBERTO Gustavo Ferreira
Published: November 2022

O objetivo geral deste trabalho é apresentar as atividades do projeto de extensão Cidades-irmãs, da Universidade Federal de Pelotas, no mapeamento das ações já realizadas sob o amparo da irmandade internacional entre os municípios de Pelotas (Brasil) e Suzu (Japão). A irmandade entre Pelotas e Suzu foi formalizada no ano de 1963 e, diante da verificada ausência de sistematização dessas ações, o projeto empreendeu um mapeamento com finalidade exploratória, por meio da abordagem qualitativa e da consulta a fontes primárias e secundárias. Visando divulgar informações sobre as iniciativas já realizadas junto à sociedade, bem como o aprofundamento das relações entre as cidades-irmãs, o mapeamento realizado permite considerar que diversas iniciativas já ocorreram entre os municípios, envolvendo tanto instituições públicas quanto privadas. Todavia, há pouca informação pública e acessível para a sociedade, tanto acerca das iniciativas já desenvolvidas quanto da própria cidade-irmã.
Comparative evaluation of the effectiveness of phlebotonic gels
Authors: Pozdnyakov D. I. , Shabanova N. B. , Gerashchenko A. D. , Sarkisyan K. K.
Published: November 2022

Introduction. Varicose veins are a common disease with a chronic course and a high risk of complications and cosmetic defects. Venotonic drugs are widely used in conservative treatment of varicose veins.

Aim. To study the comparative efficacy of venotonic drugs for local application in experimental conditions.

Materials and Methods. Varicose veins were modeled in Wistar rats by partial stricture of the deep femoral vein. The studied drugs were applied in the course of 14 days from the operation. The assessed parameters were the change of local blood flow velocity in the skin in the dynamics and the degree of vascular permeability. The rate of local blood flow was assessed by Doppler ultrasound. Changes in vascular permeability were studied by the degree of extravasation of Evans blue dye in the Miles test. The results were processed using the methods of variation statistics.

Results. The study showed that under the conditions of experimental chronic venous insufficiency, a course of application of all the analyzed drugs resulted in an increase in the rate of local blood flow in the skin and a decrease in the degree of vascular permeability. It was noted that application of the investigated gel based on escin, heparin and essential phospholipids to the skin of animals resulted in reliably (p < 0,05) lower indices of vascular permeability in comparison with the rats which received a course therapy with the heparin-containing gel; combined cosmetic agent as well as the gel based on troxerutin, heparin and dexpanthenol.

Discussion. The results obtained testify that application of external dosage forms of combined venotonic drugs promotes the regression of chronic venous insufficiency manifestations. Maximum evident effect was registered while applying the studied drug, that can be related to its complex composition including essential phospholipids, heparin and aescin. It is known that aescin is a phlebotonic with a high degree of percutaneous absorption, the effect of which is significantly potentiated by the phospholipid component.

Conclusions. The application of the combined product based on heparin, aescin and essential phospholipids provided an optimum rate of onset of pharmacological effect compared to the other analysed compositions.
Current state of the problem of risk assessment and prevention of venous thromboembolic complications after thermal obliteration of superficial veins
Authors: Lobastov K. V. , Shaldina M. V. , Borsuk D. A. , Schastlivtsev I. V. , Laberko L. A. , Fokin А. A.
Published: November 2022

Venous thromboembolic complications (VTEO) after modern minimally invasive superficial vein interventions are an infrequent but very dramatic event. This article presents a review of the literature, covering the issues of prevalence, prognosis and pharmacological prevention of VTEO. The performed studies demonstrate that the incidence of symptomatic thrombotic complications after endovenous thermal obliteration does not exceed 0,5%, but taking into account asymptomatic thermally induced thromboses and subclinical occlusions of the muscular veins of the lower leg, this figure can exceed 10%. There is a high heterogeneity of the data, possibly due to differences in the individual risk of VTEO. The most validated tool for assessing the latter is the Caprini Scale, which has not been sufficiently studied in the surgical treatment of varicose veins. The administration of prophylactic doses of anticoagulants after thermal obliteration of saphenous veins is widely used in routine clinical practice, despite the lack of convincing evidence for the appropriateness of this approach. In recent years, the use of direct oral anticoagulants against the official instruction (off-label) has gained great popularity as an alternative to heparin. The largest evidence base has accumulated for the use of rivaroxaban 10 mg, which is associated with high efficacy and safety. Based on completed clinical trials, it is not possible to formulate unequivocal recommendations for prophylactic anticoagulant doses after thermal obliteration of superficial veins at this time. Additional studies are required to identify patients with an individually increased risk of thrombosis in whom prophylactic doses of anticoagulants may be of maximum benefit.
The use of modern dressings for the local treatment of diabetic foot ulcers in out-patient setting
Authors: Bregovskiy V. B. , Demina A. G. , Karpova I. A.
Published: November 2022

Local treatment of diabetic foot ulcers is one of the most controversial topics in surgery. The choice of a dressing or bandage is still heavily influenced by many subjective factors and is often based on the personal preferences of the medical staff. Based on literature data and practical experience, the article presents the shortcomings of the current domestic practice of using gauze dressings with various drugs, as well as the reasons for the insufficient use of special so-called “outpatient” dressings with special properties. The main classes of modern dressings with special properties (mesh, hydrocolloids, hydroalginates, hydrogels, alginates and sponges or foams) and their areas of application are characterized. The concept of wound treatment in a humid environment with maintaining an optimal moisture balance is highlighted. The key areas of treatment of diabetic foot ulcers in accordance with the modern recommendations of the International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot and the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation are given: infection control, adequate blood supply, regular debridement and offloading of the affected limb. Special attention is paid to immobilization as the most important factor ensuring healing. On clinical cases, the methodology and tactics of local treatment of postoperative wound and diabetic foot ulcer with alginate dressing and silicone coated sponges are analyzed. Alternative options for local treatment of patients in both clinical cases are discussed.
Horizontal and vertical distribution of microplastics in Gehu Lake, China
Authors: Yang Ruoying , Xu Xia , Xue Yingang , Zhang Ling , Guo Jun , Wang Liping , Peng Mingguo , Zhang Qiuya , Zhu Yun
Published: November 2022

Microplastics (MPs) widely exist in the aquatic environment. In this study, the horizontal and vertical distribution of MPs in different depths of Gehu Lake was analyzed. The study found that MPs were detected in water bodies at different depths. The Gehu Lake Basin's MP abundance throughout the entire lake region ranged from 1.40 to 5.53 n/L. Microplastic abundance in surface water (3.13 ± 0.32 n/L) was highest, and the average abundance of MPs in the middle water (2.28 ± 0.24 n/L) and bottom water (1.03 ± 0.14 n/L) was appreciably reduced (p < 0.05). The microplastics observed in water samples were analyzed, and it was found that the particle size of most of the obtained microplastic particles was between 100 and 500 microns, the main shape was fibrous MP, and the MP content of transparent color was highest, and the four most common MPs was polyethylene (PE), polystyrene, polyester (PES), and polypropylene (PP). In this article, we emphasize the importance of comprehending the specific distribution characteristics of MPs in Gehu Lake. It provides a data foundation for future monitoring of MPs present in Gehu Lake, provides scientific and technological support for the assessment and prevention of microplastic pollution in this area, and offers some assistance for future lake water quality regulation.
Green infrastructure drainage of a commercial plaza without directly connected impervious areas: a case study
Authors: Rujner Hendrik , Leonhardt Günther , Flanagan Kelsey , Marsalek Jiri , Viklander Maria
Published: November 2022

A paired-catchment study of two adjacent commercial areas in northern Sweden, one with Green Infrastructure (GI) storm drainage and the other with a conventional storm sewer system, served to evaluate the hydrological performance of both drainage systems and demonstrate advantages of GI. The GI catchment avoided directly connected impervious areas by diverting runoff from a parking lot to a cascade of three infiltration features, a fractured rock strip draining onto a sloping infiltration area, followed by a collector swale. Both catchments were monitored over 4 years by measuring rainfall, runoff and, in the vicinity of the swale, soil water content and groundwater levels. For frequent storms, the median GI efficiencies in reducing runoff volumes and peak flows, and extending peak flow lags, were 96, 99 and 60%, respectively, compared to conventional drainage. The storm rainfall depth, initial soil water content, increases in intra-event soil water storage and groundwater levels had statistically significant effects on either runoff volume or peak flow reductions. No effects were found for storm rainfall intensity and duration, antecedent dry days, and initial groundwater levels. The study demonstrated that GI drainage can be successfully applied even in the challenging environment of a subarctic climate.
Digital multinationals for engaging foreign direct investments in digital economy
Authors: Finley J. T. , Tyrkba Kh. V. , Verenikina A. V.
Published: November 2022

There has been a trend towards digitalization in all areas of life, including the economic sphere, for a last decade. More and more countries are becoming oriented towards the development of digital economy and digitalization of foreign economic activities. The role of foreign direct investment (FDI) in boosting the digital economy is analyzed in this article. Digital multinational enterprises play the main role in FDI attraction. The development of multinationals is characterized by a new round of transition to the digital economy, which is changing the way of doing business and orienting businesses towards the accretion and use of digital platforms, technologies, solutions and related products and services. Digital multinationals began to enter foreign markets with little to no investment in physical assets. The ratio of the share of foreign sales to the corresponding share of foreign assets (FDI lightness index) for the top-100 digital multinationals in digital solutions segment is raising. Foreign direct investment (FDI) is a catalyst for the digital economy. Nevertheless, governments trying to create favorable environment in the country for FDI attraction should be guided by strategic rather than tactical national interests. States should favor investment in digital economy with goal-oriented approach. Investment policies must resonate with the country’s competitive advantages – human capital, business ecosystem, technological capabilities. ASEAN case is explored in this article.
Leveraging Symptom Search Data to Understand Disparities in US Mental Health Care: Demographic Analysis of Search Engine Trace Data
Authors: Rochford Ben , Pendse Sachin , Kumar Neha , De Choudhury Munmun
Published: November 2022

Background

In the United States, 1 out of every 3 people lives in a mental health professional shortage area. Shortage areas tend to be rural, have higher levels of poverty, and have poor mental health outcomes. Previous work has demonstrated that these poor outcomes may arise from interactions between a lack of resources and lack of recognition of mental illness by medical professionals.

Objective

We aimed to understand the differences in how people in shortage and nonshortage areas search for information about mental health on the web.

Methods

We analyzed search engine log data related to health from 2017-2021 and examined the differences in mental health search behavior between shortage and nonshortage areas. We analyzed several axes of difference, including shortage versus nonshortage comparisons, urban versus rural comparisons, and temporal comparisons.

Results

We found specific differences in search behavior between shortage and nonshortage areas. In shortage areas, broader and more general mental health symptom categories, namely anxiety (mean 2.03%, SD 0.44%), depression (mean 1.15%, SD 0.27%), fatigue (mean 1.21%, SD 0.28%), and headache (mean 1.03%, SD 0.23%), were searched significantly more often (Q<.0003). In contrast, specific symptom categories and mental health disorders such as binge eating (mean 0.02%, SD 0.02%), psychosis (mean 0.37%, SD 0.06%), and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (mean 0.77%, SD 0.10%) were searched significantly more often (Q<.0009) in nonshortage areas. Although suicide rates are consistently known to be higher in shortage and rural areas, we see that the rates of suicide-related searching are lower in shortage areas (mean 0.05%, SD 0.04%) than in nonshortage areas (mean 0.10%, SD 0.03%; Q<.0003), more so when a shortage area is rural (mean 0.024%, SD 0.029%; Q<2 × 10–12).

Conclusions

This study demonstrates differences in how people from geographically marginalized groups search on the web for mental health. One main implication of this work is the influence that search engine ranking algorithms and interface design might have on the kinds of resources that individuals use when in distress. Our results support the idea that search engine algorithm designers should be conscientious of the role that structural factors play in expressions of distress and they should attempt to design search engine algorithms and interfaces to close gaps in care.
Performance of a Web-Based Reference Database With Natural Language Searching Capabilities: Usability Evaluation of DynaMed and Micromedex With Watson (Preprint)
Authors: Rui Angela , Garabedian Pamela M , Marceau Marlika , Syrowatka Ania , Volk Lynn A , Edrees Heba H , Seger Diane L , Amato Mary G , Cambre Jacob , Dulgarian Sevan , Newmark Lisa P , Nanji Karen C , Schultz Petra , Jackson Gretchen Purcell , Rozenblum Ronen , Bates David W
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

Evidence-based point-of-care information (POCI) tools can facilitate patient safety and care by helping clinicians to answer disease state and drug information questions in less time and with less effort. However, these tools may also be visually challenging to navigate or lack the comprehensiveness needed to sufficiently address a medical issue.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to collect clinicians’ feedback and directly observe their use of the combined POCI tool DynaMed and Micromedex with Watson, now known as DynaMedex. EBSCO partnered with IBM Watson Health, now known as Merative, to develop the combined tool as a resource for clinicians. We aimed to identify areas for refinement based on participant feedback and examine participant perceptions to inform further development.

METHODS

Participants (N=43) within varying clinical roles and specialties were recruited from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, United States, between August 10, 2021, and December 16, 2021, to take part in usability sessions aimed at evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of, as well as satisfaction with, the DynaMed and Micromedex with Watson tool. Usability testing methods, including think aloud and observations of user behavior, were used to identify challenges regarding the combined tool. Data collection included measurements of time on task; task ease; satisfaction with the answer; posttest feedback on likes, dislikes, and perceived reliability of the tool; and interest in recommending the tool to a colleague.

RESULTS

On a 7-point Likert scale, pharmacists rated ease (mean 5.98, SD 1.38) and satisfaction (mean 6.31, SD 1.34) with the combined POCI tool higher than the physicians, nurse practitioner, and physician’s assistants (ease: mean 5.57, SD 1.64, and satisfaction: mean 5.82, SD 1.60). Pharmacists spent longer (mean 2 minutes, 26 seconds, SD 1 minute, 41 seconds) on average finding an answer to their question than the physicians, nurse practitioner, and physician’s assistants (mean 1 minute, 40 seconds, SD 1 minute, 23 seconds).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the tool performed well, but this usability evaluation identified multiple opportunities for improvement that would help inexperienced users.
A Technology-Supported Guidance Model to Increase Flexibility, Quality, and Efficiency in Nursing Education Clinical Practice: Design and Development of the TOPP-N App (Preprint)
Authors: Nes Andréa Aparecida Gonçalves , Zlamal Jaroslav , Linnerud Silje Christin Wang , Steindal Simen A , Solberg Marianne Trygg
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

The nursing profession faces pressing challenges, such as a nurse shortage and inadequate nursing education capacity. In Norway, 50% of nursing education is conducted in clinical practice and is limited by the scarcity of available clinical placements near educational institutions. Furthermore, several research studies report communication problems between nursing students, nurse educators, and nurse preceptors in clinical practice as well as challenges related to the uneven quality of nurse preceptors’ guidance competence and limited oversight of nursing students’ clinical practice by nurse educators. These challenges, which affect the quality of nursing education in clinical practice and the supply of in-demand professionals, have been highlighted for several years. Recent studies show, however, that they have only worsened, so something must be done to move the trend in a positive direction.

OBJECTIVE

To design and develop a guidance and assessment app to meet the challenges reported in the nursing profession and education. The app should improve communication, support guidance, stimulate critical thinking, and ensure the structured evaluation of nursing students in clinical practice while increasing the flexibility, quality, and efficiency of nursing education.

METHODS

This study employed a multidisciplinary, user-participatory design. Overall, the project group comprised 23 stakeholders, including 5 researchers, 2 app developers, 1 pedagogical advisor, and 15 user representative (4 educators, 6 preceptors, and 5 students), who participated in a user-centered development process that included workshops, app content development, and prototype testing.

RESULTS

This study resulted in the creation of the Technology-Optimized Practice Process in Nursing (TOPP-N) guidance and assessment app, a supportive tool for nursing students, nurse preceptors, and nurse educators in clinical practice. The development process included the app’s name, logo, promotional material, guidance and assessment module, technical architecture, security, and privacy.

CONCLUSIONS

This study offers insights into the development of an evidence-based technological tool to support nursing students, nurse preceptors, and nurse educators in clinical practice. The developed app has the potential to meet several challenges reported in clinical practice in the nursing profession and education. After a rigorous development process, we conclude that the TOPP-N guidance and assessment app prototype is ready for usability testing in a simulated environment context.
Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Telehealth Chronic Disease Management System: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Xiao Ziyan , Han Xiuping
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

Long-term daily health monitoring and management play a more significant role in telehealth management systems nowadays, which require evaluation indicators to present patients’ general health conditions and become applicable to multiple chronic diseases.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of subjective indicators of telehealth chronic disease management system (TCDMS).

METHODS

We selected Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Scopus, Cochrane library, IEEE, and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure and Wanfang, a Chinese medical database, and searched papers published from January 1, 2015, to July 1, 2022, regarding randomized controlled trials on the effectiveness of the telehealth system on patients with chronic diseases. The narrative review summarized the questionnaire indicators presented in the selected studies. In the meta-analysis, Mean Difference (MD) and Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) with a 95% CI were pooled depending on whether the measurements were the same. Subgroup analysis was conducted if the heterogeneity was significant, and the number of studies was sufficient.

RESULTS

Twenty RCTs with 4153 patients were included in the qualitative review. Seventeen different questionnaire-based outcomes were found, within which quality of life, psychological well-being (including depression, anxiety, and fatigue), self-management, self-efficacy, and medical adherence were most frequently used. Ten RCTs with 2095 patients remained in meta-analysis. Compared to usual care, telehealth system can significantly improve the quality of life (SMD 0.44; 95% CI 0.16-0.73; P=.002), whereas no significant effects were found on depression (SMD −0.25; 95% CI −0.72 to 0.23; P=.30), anxiety (SMD −0.10; 95% CI −0.27 to 0.07; P=.71), fatigue (SMD −0.36; 95% CI −1.06 to 0.34; P<.001), and self-care (SMD 0.77; 95% CI −0.28-1.81; P<.001). In the subdomains of quality of life, telehealth statistically significantly improved physical functioning (SMD 0.15; 95% CI 0.02 to 0.29; P=.03), mental functioning (SMD 0.37; 95% CI 0.13-0.60; P=.002), and social functioning (SMD 0.64; 95% CI 0.00-1.29; P=.05), while there was no difference on cognitive functioning (MD 8.31; 95% CI −7.33 to 23.95; P=.30) and role functioning (MD 5.30; 95% CI −7.80 to 18.39; P=.43).

CONCLUSIONS

TCDMS positively affected patients’ physical, mental, and social quality of life across multiple chronic diseases. However, no significant difference was found in depression, anxiety, fatigue, and self-care. Subjective questionnaires had the potential ability to evaluate the effectiveness of long-term telehealth monitoring and management. However, further well-designed experiments are warranted to validate TCDMS’s effects on subjective outcomes, especially when tested among different chronically ill groups.
Teologi Proses ala Barbour vs Kepercayaan Timur
Authors: Liem Justiani
Published: November 2022

Dalam dunia pemikiran modern, disintegrasi antara filsafat, sains-teknologi, dan teologi dianggap perlu untuk diintegrasikan kembali sehingga koheren setelah sekian abad berjalan sendiri-sendiri dan tidak jarang saling bertabrakan satu sama lain. Apalagi dengan perkembangan pesat teknologi yang telah menciptakan ketergantungan bagi manusia bahkan memunculkan berhala-berhala baru, ilah-ilah baru, tuhan-tuhan baru yang mengontrol hidup manusia, sadar atau tidak sadar.  Sampai pada perkawinan neurosains dengan intelegensia buatan yang bisa menjelaskan banyak fenomena yang sebelumnya dianggap “magic” atau menurut agama adalah “mukjizat”,  ternyata ilmiah, bukan mukjizat lagi.  Barbour melanjutkan teologi proses Whitehead, mencoba meredefinisi pemahaman teologi tentang Kedirian Manusia (istilah ketimbang Kodrat Manusia) dari “The Selfness of Being” menjadi “The Selfness of Becoming”. Teologi Proses menawarkan sebuah jalan tengah antara kemahakuasaan (omnipotence) Allah dan ketidakberdayaan (impotence) Allah lalu merumuskan kembali kekuatan Ilahi lebih sebagai pemberdayaan daripada sebagai penguasaan yang menaklukkan. Dalam rangka melanjutkan upaya Barbour untuk mencari koherensi antara filsafat, sains-teknologi, dan teologi, maka tulisan ini memberi masukan dan koreksi atas pemikiran Barbour dan menyarankan agar menengok agama-agama Kuno yang masih bertahan dan termasuk salah satu yang penganutnya besar di belahan bumi Timur dan beberapa dekade belakangan eksistensinya merambah ke Barat, yang bisa menjelaskan secara koheren temuan-temuan teknologi terkini, dari sudut pandang lain tentunya, yakni pertemuan Barat dan Timur di sini.
A Clinical Case of a Recurrent Polyarticular Gout Patient Treated with Gyeji-tang-gami and Soshiho-tang-gami
Authors: Kim Bo-sung , Ahn Seon-ju , Lee Young-su
Published: November 2022

Objectives: This study examined a clinical case of a recurrent polyarticular gout patient treated with Korean medicine.Methods: The patient was treated with Korean medicine (Gyejigagye-tang, Soshiho-tang-gami, Gyejigajakyak-tang, acupuncture, and moxibustion), Western medicine, and rehabilitative therapy. Their effects were evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale.Results: After receiving Korean medical treatment for two admission periods, the Visual Analog Scale score for joint pain improved or disappeared. Moreover, Korean medicine was able to manage the symptoms of the gout patient.Conclusions: Proper Korean medicine treatment could be effective in improving the symptoms of recurrent polyarticular gout pain.
A Case Report on Acupuncture and Moxibustion Treatment of a Patient with Immunoglobulin A Nephropathy
Authors: Lee Min-seong , Oh Seung-hyun , Jung Woo-nyoung , Noh Ji-won , Ahn Young-min , Ahn Se-young , Lee Byung-cheol
Published: November 2022

Objective: This study was conducted to investigate whether acupuncture and moxibustion treatment could improve proteinuria in immunoglobulin A nephropathy.Methods: A 25-year-old man diagnosed with immunoglobulin A nephropathy had severely increased proteinuria. We conducted acupuncture treatment and moxibustion treatment on the abdominal area between the abdominal aorta and kidney at level L2.Results: After five months of acupuncture and moxibustion treatment, the patient’s urine albumin/creatinine ratio and urine protein/creatinine ratio had improved from 0.571 to 0.28 and 0.79 to 0.47, respectively.Conclusions: This case report suggests that acupuncture and moxibustion treatment may ameliorate proteinuria in immunoglobulin A nephropathy.
A Case Report on a Patient with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Treated with Korean Medicine
Authors: Heo Gi-yoon , Kang Hee-kyung , Kim Min-hwa , Nam Irang , Kim Mariah , Kim So-yeon , Park So-jung , Yun Young-ju , Lee In , Choi Jun-yong , Han Chang-woo , Hong Jin-woo , Kwon Jung-nam
Published: November 2022

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to report the improvement of a patient with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis after long-term combined Korean medical treatment.Methods: A patient diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis was treated with herbal medicine, acupuncture, pharmacopuncture, moxibustion, and rehabilitation for four separate hospital stays. To evaluate their respiratory discomfort and limb weakness, we used Manual Muscle Testing, the Pulmonary Function Test, and the Korean Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale-Revised.Results: The weakness of the muscles of the lower extremities and respiratory function was improved.Conclusion: We consider that combined Korean medicine treatments might be an effective treatment for muscle weakness and respiratory discomfort of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. To verify the effectiveness of these treatments, further research is required.
A Case Report of Korean Medical Treatment on a Left Pontine Hemorrhage with a Cavernous Malformation
Authors: Yim Tae-Bin , Jeon Gyu-Ri , Lee Hye-Jin , Lee Kyeong-Hwa , Cho Seung-Yeon , Park Jung-Mi , Ko Chang-Nam , Park Seong-Uk
Published: November 2022

This case report determines the effects of Korean medicine treatment on a pontine hemorrhage with a cavernous malformation. In this study, Korean medicine treatments, such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, electro-acupuncture, and moxibustion, were administered for 30 days. During the hospitalization period, evaluations were performed using the Scott and Kraft Scale, eye movement, 9-gaze photography, the House-Brackmann grading system, and Yanagihara’s unweighted grading system on days 1, 12, and 30. The Scott and Kraft Scale increased from -4 to -2, while eye movement increased from 43.1% to 72.3%. The House-Brackmann grading system improved from 4 to 2, and Yanagihara’s unweighted grading system increased from 13 to 31. We also discovered that the movement of the left eye was improved by 9-gaze photography. Our findings suggest that Korean medicine treatment has potential effects on esotropia and facial palsy caused by a pontine hemorrhage with a cavernous malformation.
A Case Report of Korean Medical Treatment of a Dyspepsia Patient with Lethargy and Dizziness
Authors: Kwon Tae-ha , Kim Min-joo , Go Min-seok , Bong Sae-young , Lee Cha-young
Published: November 2022

Objectives: The aim of this case report was to present the effects of Korean medicine treatment on a patient with dyspepsia symptoms like those of gastroesophageal reflux disease.Methods: A 64-year-old male patient with dyspepsia was treated with Sosiho-tang decoction, Banhasasim-tang soft extract, Gamihyangsayukgunja-tang decoction, and Kracie Sihogayonggolmoryu-tang extract, along with acupuncture, pharmacopuncture, and deep tissue meridian hot pack therapy for five days of hospitalization. Pain from the dyspepsia was assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale and the European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions Scale.Results: Within five days of treatment, dyspepsia was relieved from a Numerical Rating Scale score of 7 to a score of 3. The European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions Scale score increased from 0.455 to 0.816.Conclusion: These results show that dyspepsia can be relieved with Korean medicine treatment. However, further well-designed studies are required to confirm these findings.
A Case Report of Tracheal Granuloma Treated with Sipyukmiyuki-eum
Authors: Nam Irang , Heo Gi-yoon , Kang Hee-kyung , Kim Min-hwa , Kim Mariah , Kwon Jung-nam , Kim So-yeon , Park So-jung , Yun Young-ju , Choi Jun-yong , Han Chang-woo , Hong Jin-woo , Lee In
Published: November 2022

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to report the improvement of tracheal granuloma after herbal medicine treatment.Methods: A patient with tracheal granuloma was treated with Sipyukmiyuki-eum, and we checked laryngoscopy images to observe the improvement of this condition.Results: After treatment with Sipyukmiyuki-eum and Korean medicine therapy, we found that tracheal granuloma showed improvements in the laryngoscopy image.Conclusion: This case suggests that Sipyukmiyuki-eum might be effective for patients who develop tracheal granuloma after tracheostomy. However, additional studies with more patients are required to verify this finding.
A Case Report of Postherpetic Neuralgia Treated with Kyung Hee Gongjin-dan and Hyangbujapalmul-tang-gagam
Authors: Jeon Gyu-Ri , Yim Tae-Bin , Hwang Ye-Chae , Heo Hye-Min , Cho Seung-Yeon , Park Seong-Uk , Ko Chang-Nam , Park Jung-Mi
Published: November 2022

The most common definition of postherpetic neuralgia is the presence of pain more than a month after the onset of the eruption of zoster. This case report suggests the effect of Korean medicine on postherpetic neuralgia. An 85-year-old male patient with postherpetic neuralgia was treated with a combination of Korean medical remedies. Kyung Hee Gongjin-dan and Hyangbujapalmul-tang-gagam were applied for 23 days. The Numerical Rating Scale was used to measure pain intensity. The Barthel Index and Beck Depression Inventory were used for the functional assessment and depression evaluation, respectively. After treatment, the patient’s pain intensity decreased. Additionally, the patient’s independence increased during activity, and the severity of their depression decreased. Thus, this case suggests that a combination of Korean medicine treatments might be effective for postherpetic neuralgia. In particular, it shows that Kyung Hee Gongjin-dan and Hyangbujapalmul-tang-gagam can be therapeutic options in the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia.
I Am a Scientist... Ask Me Anything: explicating the role of past behavioral attitudes on scientists' future public engagement intentions
Authors: Hubner Austin Y. , Bond Robert
Published: November 2022

There is growing pressure within the scientific community for scientists to participate in public engagement of science (PES) activities. As such, science communication scholars have worked to identify factors that predict a scientist's intention to participate in PES activities. One factor that has not been explicated is the role of experience performing PES activities in the past on one's future behavioral intentions. Using an augmented theory of planned behavior, we examine how one's experience participating in a question-and-answer forum on the popular website Reddit affected scientists' willingness to participate in a future PES activity.
Modality Markers and Shifting Genre Conventions in Dictionary Definitions
Authors: Dorošenko Jeļena
Published: November 2022

The paper analyses the entries of Oxford Fowler’s Modern English Usage (2004), building up on our previous research on changes in modality of lexicographic discourse. It is argued that its prescriptivist stance has been toned down not only by the preference for genre-specific epistemic modality markers instead of deontic modality markers, but also by employing in definitions a wide scope of common epistemic modality markers related to probability, certainty or uncertainty as regards the validity of the proposition. The prevailing defining vocabulary is now that of opinion or advice. Recommendations on usage also often refer to register variables singled out by systemic-functional linguistics: tenor (degrees of formality signalled by labels like formal, informal, and by pragmatic labels: offensive, affectionate, etc.), field (legal language, marketing, etc.) and marking the type of discourse and mode (spoken – written). Register variables split the notion of Standard English further and qualify prescriptive statements on usage, making them fully valid for a particular register only. Thus, the analysis reveals a broad range of both non-specific and genre-specific low modality markers employed in the texts of dictionary entries as new genre conventions of both content and form. It shows that these conventions are historically relative and that low modality is a new mode of address to dictionary users.
Register of Electronic Communication at Sea
Authors: Karapetjana Indra , Lokastova Jeļena
Published: November 2022

Electronic communication is one of most frequent written communication means used by marine officers to exchange any information relevant to the safety of life at sea. Due to dire consequences which might be a result of miscommunication caused by a lack of proper English language use, the International Maritime Organization highlights the importance of working knowledge of written English for marine officers. Since there is limited research on the linguistic aspects of Maritime English correspondence, it is important to determine the linguistic features of this specific maritime genre. Therefore, the aim of this study was to conduct a register analysis of a specialized corpus of electronic mail, written by chief engineers. The results revealed that professional electronic communication among chief engineers exhibits the features of written and spoken register and creates a hybrid form constructing a new genre of language use. The findings of this study revealed some register features, for example, the omission of some parts of speech, abbreviations and shortened forms of specific terminology and the use of emoticons.
The Translation Scene in Latvia During the German Occupation
Authors: Veisbergs Andrejs
Published: November 2022

The German occupation period in Latvia followed the twenty years of Latvian independence and a year of the Soviet occupation. The shifts in the translation policies at these critical junctions were incredibly fast. The independence period saw a developed translation industry. The source language variety was growing; the variety of literature translated and the quality of translations was broad. The communist system quickly nationalized the publishers, ideologised the system and reshaped the translation pattern. Russian was made the main source language and other languages minimized. The share of ideological literature grew exponentially.
Soon after the German invasion the publishers regained their printing houses and publishing was renewed. During the German occupation around 1500 books were published. Another reorientation occurred, with German literature taking around 70 per cent of the source texts. Most of the other source texts were Nordic. No pulp literature was produced. Translation quality was generally high. The focus was on literary classics, travel literature and biographies (many German musicians). There are few ideologically motivated translations.
The official policies of the regime as regards publishing in Latvia appear to be uncoordinated and vague, with occasional decisions taken by ‘gate-keepers’ in Ostministerium and other authorities according to their own preferences. There was a nominal pre-censorship, but the publishers were expected to know and sense what was acceptable. In their turn the latter played safe sticking to classical and quality translations. Yet the statistics of what was published reflects the general drift. Some high class translations into German of Latvian classics were published.
English Language Testing in Moodle: Step Towards University of Latvia Language Policy Implementation
Authors: Karapetjana Indra , Kuzmina Jana , Vinčela Zigrīda
Published: November 2022

Along with globalisation, university internalisation has taken place, leading to the support for the national and foreign language policies in universities. This has resulted in the expansion of English as a lingua franca of academia. The aims of this study were to discuss the results of the focused descriptive study aimed at obtaining information on the status quo of the students’ English language proficiency level at the University of Latvia (UL) and the feasibility of the introduction of an in-house Moodle-based testing introduction into the learning process at the UL. The piloted test results demonstrate that generally the students have an appropriate English language proficiency level for academic studies at the UL at all degree levels, although exhibiting limitations in writing and some limitations in listening skills. It has also been concluded that Moodle-based online language testing is helpful to meet the language policy goals set out at the University of Latvia.
Canada as a Superpower in Elizabeth Bear’s Science Fiction: The Jenny Casey Trilogy
Authors: Danytė Milda
Published: November 2022

English-speaking science fiction readers were impressed by Elizabeth Bear’s Jenny Casey trilogy when it appeared in 2005. Along with the high quality of the novels, Hammered, Scardown and Worldwired, the American author surprised her public by a number of features that distinguishes this trilogy from most recent American science fiction. The aim of this article is to examine two of these features more closely: Bear’s combination and revision of certain earlier science fiction genres and her depiction of a world of 2062 in which Canada and not the USA has the leading role in space exploration and global conflicts. The article uses both a comparative examination of science fiction genres and a qualitative analysis of those aspects of Canada that Bear chooses to highlight. American space fiction tends to be nationalistic, but the USA of 2062 is shown as suffering from ecological disasters that its weak and divided society cannot deal with. Canada, on the other hand, though not an ideal society, successfully upholds values like moderation, and is still able to rely on the loyalty of very different kinds of characters.
Local Lecturers, International Students and Their Linguistic Compatibility
Authors: Kalnbērziņa Vita
Published: November 2022

The aim of this study is to compare the linguistic proficiency levels of lecturers and students, using an online lecture passage dictation as an anchor item between the two tests developed for students and lecturers. The article also reports on the use of the said dictation as a means of the assessment justification (Bachman, 2013) of the proficiency test offered via at a University in Latvia Moodle (Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment) system (Online 1), making the test available in different parts of the world. The main finding is that the lecturers and their students’ language proficiency is comparable when using Gary Buck’s (2001) and Common European Framework of Reference (2006) frameworks of phonological, orthographic, lexical, syntactical and discourse competence levels.
Transversal Skills in the World of Work: Applied Linguistics’ Approach
Authors: Karapetjana Indra , Roziņa Gunta , Henkuzena Ieva , Zaura Egija , Ribreiro Sandra , Sarmento Clara
Published: November 2022

As a result of the ethno-cultural and economic contacts taking place between different countries, the 21st century has set new guidelines, known as transversal or soft skills, for employability worldwide. Communication between specialists representing different areas and occupations demands specific competences required by innovative employment systems. This, to a certain extent, has an impact on the world-wide use of English as an instrument for multinational communication. Thus, the present research, which is based on the results of the survey administered as part of the Erasmus+ Strategic partnership project Transversal Skills in Dentistry: Content and Language Integrated Approach, explored some of the key skills that are cross-disciplinary in nature and are required by the world of work. These skills tend to determine employability of tertiary level graduates with hands-off experience in dentistry. From the practical perspective, the study illustrates the key skills that are vital for increasing youth employability nowadays. The conclusions drawn support the presupposition that the 21st century’s employability is based on the manifestation of interdisciplinarity, application of novice content knowledge, and competent transition of academically acquired knowledge and skills into the world of work.