bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of the Development of Associated Clinical Conditions in Working-Age Patients With Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Conditions of High Adherence to Treatment
Authors: Koziolova N. A. , Chernyavina A. I. , Polyanskaya E. A.
Published: February 2024

Aim. To determine predictors for the development of associated clinical conditions (ACC) in patients of working age with cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs) in the conditions of high compliance with the treatment and healthy lifestyle (HLS).Material and methods. The study included 364 patients with CVRFs without target organ damage and a history of ACC. Mean age was 42.24±8.08 years. Patients were examined in consistency with the Russian Society of Cardiology (RSC) 2020 guidelines for arterial hypertension and chronic heart failure. The follow-up period was 6.45±0.42 years. 350 patients completed the study, 9 patients died during the follow-up period, and 5 were lost to follow-up. Patients were divided into two groups based on the development of ACC. The first group consisted of 56 (16%) patients with verified ACC, the second group included 294 (84%) patients without ACC.Results. Regression logistic and correlation analyses confirmed the prognostic significance for the development of ACC by 12 indicators. The risk of ACC in smokers was increased more than 7 times (odds ratio (OR) 7.44, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.42-16.21), and when type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) developed, more than 9 times (OR 9.47, 95% CI: 4.36-20.59); with chronic kidney disease (CKD), more than 6 times (OR 6.75, 95% CI: 3.41-13, 37); with a history of COVID-19 (COronaVIrus Disease 2019) pneumonia, 7 times (OR 7.11, 95% CI: 3.04-16.58); with left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), 6 times (OR 6, 35, 95% CI: 3.14-12.83); with CAVI index>7.2, almost 3 times (OR 2.69, 95% CI: 1.48-4.86); with PVWcf (carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity) >13 m/s, more than 5 times (OR 5.61, 95% CI: 2.79-11.28); with R-AI index (augmentation index) >1, more than 2 times (OR 2.26, 95% CI: 1.3-3.9); and with an increase in the indexed left atrial volume (ILAV) >27 ml/m2, more than 8 times (OR 8.80, 95% CI: 4.61-16.79). In the presence of polymorphisms in the form of homozygosity for the minor allele of the AGT gene (Thr174Met, rs4762), the risk of developing ACC increased 14 times (OR 14.13, 95% CI: 4.69-42.57), the APOE gene (Cys130Arg, rs429358), 11 times (OR 11.18, 95% CI: 4.18-29.93), and in the intron of the PRARα gene (rs4253778), 8 times (OR 8.11, 95% CI: 3.75-17.53).Conclusion. The development of ACC in patients with high compliance with treatment and a healthy lifestyle is associated with smoking, type 2 diabetes and CKD, a history of COVID-19 pneumonia, LVH, increased ILAV >27 g/m2, more pronounced arterial stiffness assessed by an increase in CAVI indices >7.2, R-AI >1, and PWVcf >13 m/s; and with the presence of polymorphism of the AGT, APOE and PPARα genes in the form of homozygosity for the minor allele.
Risk Factors of Ischaemic Heart Disease in 419 385 Outpatients: a Long-term Comparative Study
Authors: Galyavych A. S. , Khairullin R. N. , Baleeva L. V. , Sabirzyanova A. A. , Sluter M. , Akimova S. V. , Galimzyanov A. F. , Volsky A. S.
Published: February 2024

Aim. To determine the incidence rate of risk factors in patients who visited polyclinics at their place of residence.Material and methods. The study included 419,385 patients who visited polyclinics in 2018-2023, in whom the most easily measurable risk factors for ischemic heart disease (IHD) were identified: arterial hypertension, total cholesterol (TC) and blood plasma glucose.Results. During 4 years of follow-up, the proportion of patients with blood pressure (BP) higher than 140/90 mm Hg decreased (35.9%). The proportion of patients with blood glucose higher than 6.1 mmol/l (4.2%) also significantly decreased. The proportion of patients with a TC level higher than 5.2 mmol/l as well as of patients with a body mass index higher than 30 kg/m2 did not significantly change (67.4% and 23.9%, respectively). An analysis of 274 deaths during the follow-up period showed that the main causes for death in patients with arterial hypertension were IHD (69.6%) and cerebrovascular diseases (30.3%).Conclusion. People who visited polyclinics at their place of residence retained a high incidence of easily measurable risk factors for IHD, including arterial hypertension, high TC and blood glucose. The proportion of patients with blood pressure higher than 140 and 90 mm Hg was 49.7%, the proportion of patients with TC higher than 5.2 mmol/l was 63.1%, and the proportion of patients with blood glucose higher than 6.1 mmol/l exceeded 10%.
Early Detection and Control of Risk Factors for Cardiovascular Diseases in the Aral Region: Experience of Uzbekistan
Authors: Fozilov H. G. , Ataniyazov H. H. , Khamidullaeva G. A. , Abdullaeva S. Ya. , Alieva R. B.
Published: February 2024

Aim. To analyze the results of screening of the population older than 40 years for early detection of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases in real clinical practice of family clinics in the Aral Sea region.Material and methods. The results of screening of the population older than 40 years were analyzed for a total of 2,430 respondents from family clinics of the district (Republic of Uzbekistan, Republic of Karakalpakstan, Ellikkala district) according to the modified WHO PEN protocol. 1,020 of the respondents with blood pressure ≥140/90 mm Hg were included in the study (mean age, 57.68±8.06 years; women, 61.4%; men, 38.6%). Additionally, the following parameters were determined: salt-taste threshold using the R. Henkin method, echocardiography, ultrasonography of the brachiocephalic arteries, blood lipid spectrum, microalbuminuria, serum creatinine and uric acid. Statistical data are presented as mean±SD. The prevalence of signs in the study group was assessed using the Pearson’s chi-square test, and the Pearson correlation coefficient was used.Results. Among the patients with elevated blood pressure included in the study, 24 (2.4%) were younger than 40 years, 847 (81%) were 40-65 years old, and 169 (16.6%) were older than 65 years. Low cardiovascular risk was twice more common among women compared to men: 11.3% vs. 5.6% (χ²=8.990; p=0.003); almost 75% fewer patients with ischemic heart disease, 7.4% vs. 28.9% (χ²=14.939; p=0.0001); however, the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus was twice higher, 13.7% vs. 7.4% (χ²=9.205; p=0.002); the female group had significantly fewer cases of postinfarction cardiosclerosis (PICS) (χ²=5.313; p=0.021). Among women, there were no tobacco users or regular alcohol drinkers whereas among men these risk factors were identified in 59.4% (χ²=178.848; p=0.0001) and 35% (χ²=82.238; p=0.0001), respectively. 85.6% of the respondents had a high salt-taste threshold, 96% had left ventricular hypertrophy, 76% had microalbuminuria, 21% had proteinuria, and 92% of both men and women had a common carotid artery intima-media thickening >0.9 mm.Conclusion. The study showed a broad prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors in the population of hypertensive patients in the Aral region, a high salt-taste threshold, and significant damages to target organs, which differed from other regions of Uzbekistan. Among hypertensive men, there was a significant prevalence of tobacco and alcohol use, and a significantly more frequent detection of ischemic heart disease, PICS and hyperuricemia compared to women; in the female population, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus was significantly greater.
The EXCEL Study: Long-term Observation of the Effectiveness of Drug and Non-drug Rehabilitation in Patients with Ischemic Heart Failure
Authors: Belenkov Yu. N. , Lishuta A. S. , Slepova O. A. , Nikolaeva N. S. , Khabarova N. V. , Dadashova G. M. , Privalova E. V.
Published: February 2024

Aim. To study the long-term effect of enhanced external counterpulsation (EECP) therapy on exercise tolerance, quality of life (QoL), and indicators of the structural and functional state of the cardiovascular system in patients with stable ischemic heart disease (IHD) complicated by chronic heart failure (CHF).

Material and methods. This open randomized EXCEL study included 120 patients with verified IHD complicated by NYHA II-III functional class CHF with reduced or mid-range left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction. Patients were randomized into group 1 (n=40), optimal drug therapy (ODT) and EECP (35 hours, 2 courses per year); group 2 (n=40), ODT and EECP (35 hours, 1 course per year); and group 3 (control; n=40), ODT and placebo counterpulsation (35 h, 1 course per year). All patients underwent a 6-minute walk test (6MWT), evaluation of clinical status, QoL with the MLHFQ and SF-36 questionnaires, structural and functional state of large blood vessels and microvasculature, measurement of brain natriuretic peptide precursor (NT-proBNP), and echocardiography at baseline and after 12 months.

Results. In groups 1 and 2 after 12 months, the 6MWT distance increased statistically significantly (44.5 and 24.9%, respectively) and the following indexes improved: QoL (SF-36, MLHFQ), the condition of large blood vessels (phase shift, radial augmentation index, central aortic systolic pressure (CASP)) and microvasculature (occlusion index, percentage of perfused capillaries, percentage of capillary recovery), and the LV systolic function (from 40.6±7.5 to 47.5±10.2% and from 41.3± 6.8 to 43.9±10.3%, respectively). The proportion of patients with a >20% increase in the 6MWT at 12 months was 97.5, 72.5, and 7.7%, respectively. A statistically significant decrease in NT-proBNP was observed in all groups. In group 3, the incidence of hospitalizations for CHF and the risk of the composite endpoint were significantly higher.

Conclusion. For the 12-month study period, the effects of EECP in patients with IHD complicated by CHF included improvements in exercise tolerance, QoL, vascular and cardiac functional parameters, and a decrease in the incidence of adverse outcomes.
Prediction of Cardiovascular Diseases in Women With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Osipova I. V. , Starodubova Y. N.
Published: February 2024

Aim. To develop prognostic models for arterial hypertension (AH) and atherosclerosis based on studying the totality and significance of traditional and disease-mediated risk factors (RFs) in women with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Material and methods. 223 female patients with RA aged 54.9±2.1 years were evaluated at the premises of the polyclinic of the Gulla Municipal Hospital #4 (Barnaul), the "Health Center", the City Rheumatology Department of the polyclinic, and the Hospital Department in 2016-2019. Statistical analysis was performed using Excel Microsoft Office 2007, Statistica 6.0 and 10.0, and SigmaPlot 12.5 software packages. Multivariate regression analysis was used for studying the attributes influencing the development of AH and atherosclerosis in RA and for constructing predictive models. ROC analysis was used to determine the quality of the developed models. Differences were considered statistically significant at p<0.05.

Results. The following RFs predominating in the onset of disease were identified: traditional (hyperglycemia, obesity, increased diastolic BP (DBP), tachycardia, dyslipidemia); disease-mediated (ESR, fibrinogen, C-reactive protein (CRP), rheumatoid factor, cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies, moderate and high DAS-28 activity), and psychosocial (stress, anxiety, depression, sleep disorders). The highest RF incidence and their combinations were determined with a RA duration of more than a year: traditional (obesity, hyperglycemia, increased systolic BP (SBP)), and decreased glomerular filtration rate; and disease-mediated (prednisolone treatment). A highly sensitive model for AH screening was developed that included a combination of RFs: disease-mediated (RA duration, CRP); traditional (improper diet, low physical activity, history of early cardiovascular diseases, increased SBP and DBP, preeclampsia and/or eclampsia, early menopause, older age, dyslipidemia); psychosocial (anxiety, depression), and a high salt-taste threshold. A highly sensitive model was developed for probable prediction of multifocal atherosclerosis in RA in women. The model includes a complex of risk factors: disease-mediated (RA activity by DAS-28, CRP, fibrinogen, ESR, dose-dependent prednisolone treatment); traditional (AH, SBP, waist circumference, heart rate, early menopause, preeclampsia and/or eclampsia, age 55 years and older, dyslipidemia); and psychosocial (sleep disorders, depression).

Conclusion. Algorithms for early prevention of AH and atherosclerosis were developed with consideration of identified predictors and proposed prediction models for women with RA.
Preventive Cardiology 2024: State of Problem Perspectives of Development
Authors: Pogosova N. V. , Boytsov S. A.
Published: February 2024

This article presents the current relevance of preventive cardiology, substantiates the increasing importance of the prevention of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) to reduce mortality and the burden of CVD, including in the era of widespread use of modern high-tech methods and effective drug therapy for treating CVD in clinical practice. The article also addresses effectiveness of secondary prevention of CVD and approaches to its improvement. Particular attention is paid to the high importance of introducing into practice comprehensive programs for secondary prevention of CVD and cardiac rehabilitation. The principles of organizing such programs and their most important components are presented in detail.
Costa Rica: generando impacto para mejorar vidas: resultados recientes en proyectos de finanzas publicas e integracion regional financiados por el grupo BID
Authors:   Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo,   BID Invest,   BID Lab
Published: February 2024

El Grupo BID se ha involucrado activamente en la superación de dos desafíos mayúsculos para Costa Rica: el mejoramiento de la integración comercial y la reducción del déficit fiscal. Este documento recoge de manera breve información de contexto y resultados en ambos frentes de trabajo. Por una parte, el Banco ha contribuido al desarrollo de varios proyectos orientados a la gestión coordinada de fronteras, haciendo más eficientes los procesos aduaneros en los puestos de control que conectan al país con Panamá y Nicaragua. En cuanto a la disminución del déficit fiscal, se ha aportado al diseño e implementación de reformas dirigidas a optimizar el recaudo y el gasto público, fortaleciendo así las finanzas del Estado, e incluso, mejorando su calificación de riesgo.
Relevance Between Standing Period and Working Fatigue on Simpang Jam Gas Station Operator in Banda Aceh, Indonesia
Authors: Aditama Wiwit , Fahira Miftahul
Published: February 2024

Background: Workplace fatigue is a major concern that demands proper management, as it can result in various health issues. Gas station attendants who remain stationary for prolonged periods are especially susceptible to this problem. Therefore, this study aims to examine the relationship between standing time and work fatigue among Simpang Jam gas station operators in Banda Aceh City.
Research method: In order to explain the relevance between standing period and work fatigue, this study uses descriptive analytics. All 30 officers participated in the study as the population. At the Simpang Jam Gas Station in Banda Aceh City, this study was carried out in June. Chi-Square test was conducted.
Results: 40.0% of respondents reported being at risk and frequently worn out when standing for extended periods. Additionally, 91.7% of respondents experienced discomfort and exhaustion while working in standing positions.
Conclusion: Standing time and work fatigue have a relationship with a P value of 0.017, and standing work position and work fatigue have a relationship with a P value of 0.005.
Suggestion: When operators begin to experience signs of work fatigue, provide chairs for them and pay closer attention to rest periods.
PTSD and negative emotions as consequences of various types of traumatic events among fire-fighters
Authors: Dudek Bohdan , Koniarek Jerzy , Szymczak Maria
Published: February 2024

Strażacy należą˛ do grupy zawodowej, której członkowie są, z powodu nałożonych na nich obowiązków, prawie codziennie narażeni na zdarzenia traumatyczne. Stres doświadczany w takich sytuacjach może prowadzić do rozwoju zaburzenia po stresie traumatycznym (PTSD). Celem prowadzonych badań było ustalenie częstości narażenia na zdarzenia traumatyczne i rozwoju PTSD oraz określenie zależności pomiędzy cechami zdarzeń i emocjonalnymi reakcjami a manifestowaniem symptomów PTSD. Badania przeprowadzono w wylosowanych 40 jednostkach ratowniczo-gaśniczych wchodzących w skład Państwowej Straży Pożarnej. Badaniami objęto reprezentatywną grupę 974 polskich strażaków. Do pomiaru symptomów PTSD wykorzystano kwestionariusz PTSD-I opracowany przez Ch. G. Watsona i in. (1991). Do pomiaru cech zdarzeń traumatycznych i emocjonalnych reakcji na te zdarzenia opracowano odpowiednie pytania, z których zbudowano kwestionariusz. Większość osób badanych (86,1%) stwierdziło, że co najmniej raz, podczas służby, uczestniczyli w zdarzeniu traumatycznym. Wśród 7,6% uczestników zdarzeń rozpoznano PTSD. Do najczęściej doświadczanych zdarzeń traumatycznych należały sytuacje wypadkowe (63,4%). Ponad połowa badanych ujawniała różnorodne fizjologiczne i emocjonalne reakcje spowodowane danym zdarzeniem traumatycznym. Dominującym uczuciem wśród uczestników zdarzeń było: współczucie i bezradność. Lęk należał do emocji najsilniej związanych z poziomem symptomów PTSD (r = 0,48; p ≤ 0,001). Poziom symptomów w PTSD korelował z wiekiem osób badanych (r = 0,25; p ≤ 0,05) i długością stażu zawodowego (r = 0,27; p ≤ 0,05).
The oculomotor system in the processing of visual information
Authors: Młodkowski Jan
Published: February 2024

Widzenie jest tylko jednym z wielu, choć niewątpliwie najważniejszym czynnikiem orientacji człowieka w otaczającej go rzeczywistości. Proces widzenia charakteryzuje naprzemienny cykl pozyskiwania sygnałów. Na korową analizę sygnału wzrokowego, która odbywa się˛ dzięki mechanizmom neuronalnym, nakłada się analiza informacji wizualnych o psychicznym charakterze. Ruchy oczu warunkują˛ zarówno powstanie, utrzymanie oraz przetwarzanie odwzorowania siatkówkowego, jak i całą percepcję wzrokową. Ruch gałki ocznej jest zmianą jej położenia kątowego w oczodole dzięki unerwionym obwodowo mięśniom ocznym. Dla rozpoznawania decydujące znaczenie mają ruchy skokowe. Zależność ta ma charakter dwukierunkowy: ruchy kształtują proces percepcji, a zarazem same od niego zależą. Tak więc proces sterowania przemieszczeniami oczu uwzględnia zwrotnie treści zawarte w tworzącym się obrazie. Proces ten zachodzi na dwóch poziomach. Na niższym z poziomów o trajektorii ruchów decydują mechanizmy odruchowe, które wyróżniają˛ kontrasty, przemieszczenia, intensywne barwy itp. odpowiadające właściwościom obiektów w polu widzenia. Na wyższym poziomie zachodzą procesy transformacyjne (myślenie, wyobrażenia), wskutek czego zależności między informacją pobieraną wzrokowo w poszczególnych punktach fiksacji mają charakter semantyczny. Wiedza o ruchach oczu dostarcza zatem niektórych wiadomości o współwystępujących z nimi procesach psychicznych.
Evaluation of Metformin Supplemented Diluent on Cryopreservation of Canine Semen
Authors: Joshy B. Keerthana , Rangasamy S. , Sathiamoorthy T. , Jeyaraja K. , Chitra R.
Published: February 2024

Background: Cryopreservation of semen in canines is getting more advanced lately, however the fertility following the insemination of the frozen thawed semen is lower than other species. The higher content of PUFA and lipid peroxidation leading to production of reactive oxygen species is one of the reasons for the same. Antioxidants play a role in improving the post thaw semen quality in canines. Methods: Semen collected from 10 male dogs were further divided into two aliquots. The first aliquot was extended with TRIS-fructose egg yolk extender and the second one was extended with TRIS-fructose egg yolk extender supplemented with 50 µM of metformin. The extended semen was cryopreserved using conventional methods. Subsequently, both routine semen parameters and advanced semen parameters including viability, acrosomal integrity, DNA integrity and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured in the spermatozoa through the utilization of flow cytometry. Result: Present study indicated that, post thaw motility was significantly higher in the metformin supplemented group in comparison with control while, the mitochondrial ROS was significantly lower in metformin supplemented group. Our study concludes metformin could be effectively used to reduce the ROS produced during the process of cryopreservation of the canine semen.
Laporan Kasus: Terapi Skabiosis dan Otitis Eksterna pada Kucing Rescue Ras Persia
Authors: Kristiawan Vicky , Jayanti Putu Devi , Erawan I Gusti Made Krisna
Published: February 2024

Skabiosis merupakan penyakit kulit yang menyebabkan kudis pada kulit akibat adanya infestasi tungau Sarcoptes scabiei. Tungau S. scabiei merupakan ektoparasit yang biasa menyerang kucing. Selain tungau S. scabiei, tungau Otodectes cynotis merupakan ektoparasit yang juga sering ditemukan pada anjing dan kucing. Berdasarkan anamnesis, kucing kasus dalam kondisi lemas, menggaruk-garuk telinga dan badan, telinga mengkerut dan mengeluarkan cairan purulen. Pada pemeriksaan klinis kucing kasus mengalami dehidrasi yang ditandai dengan mukosa pucat, capillary refill time lebih dari dua detik, serta elastisitas tugor menurun, temuan alopesia pada daerah punggung, pangkal ekor, serta kedua telinga yang disertai hiperkeratosis pada kedua telinga, dan purulent. Pemeriksaan laboratorium dilakukan dengan pengambilan sampel kerokan kulit, serta sampel serumen telinga dan pemeriksaan hematologi. Pada pemeriksaan kerokan kulit ditemukan adanya tungau S. scabiei, dan pada pemeriksaan serumen telinga ditemukan adanya tungau O. cnyotis. Hasil pemeriksaan hematologi menunjukan kucing kasus mengalami limfositopenia dan anemia. Terapi yang diberikan berupa terapi kausatif dengan pemberian ivermectin 1% injeksi dengan dosis 0,3 mg/kg diberikan sebanyak 0,05 mL, dan antibiotik amoxicillin injeksi dengan dosis 20 mg/kg diberikan sebanyak 0,2 mL setiap q 48 jam, kucing kasus dimandikan seminggu dua kali dengan shampoo sulfur Sebazole, terapi simtomatis dengan pemberian antihistamin diphenhydramine HCl injeksi dengan dosis 2 mg/kg, dilanjutkan dengan pemberian antihistamin chlorphenamine maleate dengan dosis 2 mg/kucing setiap q 12 jam, dan terapi suportif dengan diberikan berupa fish oil dan nutriplus gel masing-masing selama 30 hari. Frekuensi pruritus mulai berkurang pada hari ke-4 dan pada hari ke-14 jarang melakukan gerakan menggaruk. Pemeriksaan hematologi dilakukan 14 hari pascaterapi dan menunjukan adanya perubahan ke arah normal yang ditandai dengan penurunan pada jumlah sel darah putih dan peningkatan pada sel darah merah. Pertumbuhan rambut pada daerah alopesia mulai terlihat pada hari ke-25.
Knowledge and Awareness Level Healthcare Professionals about Adult and Pediatric Basic Life Support
Authors: Babacan Arzu , Özmen Mehmet Mahir
Published: February 2024

Objective: This study aimed to evaluate healthcare professionals' knowledge levels and attitudes toward adult and pediatric basic life support in a tertiary university hospital.
Methods: The data of the research was collected by questionnaire method. A total of 351 healthcare professionals who agreed to participate in the study and filled out the questionnaire form were included in the analysis of the study. Twenty-nine questions about adult and pediatric basic life support were asked to the participants; each group was analyzed in terms of gender, age groups, working unit, working time, and duties.
Results: The study was completed with 351 participants, mostly women, working in the emergency department and surgical sciences as research assistants, nurses, and health technicians, working for less than 5 years, and mostly over 26 years old. Most participants had received training in basic life support, used automatic external defibrillators, and performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation before. The rate of correct answers to questions about general information about adult and pediatric basic life support, circulation, airway, defibrillation rhythms, and doses of drugs were low. A statistical difference was found in the total questionnaire score regarding duty, working time, and their department.
Conclusion: The level of knowledge of healthcare professionals on adult and pediatric basic life support is inadequate and out of date and should be improved with education and training programs
Real-World Effectiveness and Safety of Glecaprevir/Pibrentasvir for the Treatment of Chronic Hepatitis C: A Prospective Cohort Study in Portugal
Authors: Vera José , Gomes André , Póvoas Diana , Seixas Diana , Maltez Fernando , Pedroto Isabel , Maia Luís , Mota Margarida , Vieira Maria João , Manata Maria José , Ferreira Paula , Lino Sara , Pereira Guedes Tiago , Barradas Vânia , Marques Nuno
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Information about pan-genotypic treatments for hepatitis in Portugal is scarce. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of glecaprevir plus pibrentasvir (GLE/PIB) treatment for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in real-world clinical practice.Methods: An observational prospective study was implemented in six hospitals with 121 adult HCV patients who initiated treatment with GLE/PIB between October 2018 and April 2019, according to clinical practice. Eligible patients had confirmed HCV infection genotype (GT) 1 to 6 and were either treatment-naïve or had experience with interferon-, ribavirin- or sofosbuvir-based regimens, with or without compensated cirrhosis. Baseline sociodemographic and safety data are described for the total population (N = 115). Effectiveness [sustained virologic response 12 weeks after treatment (SVR12)] and patient-reported outcomes are presented for the core population with sufficient follow-up data (n = 97).Results: Most patients were male (83.5%), aged < 65 years (94.8%), with current or former alcohol consumption (77.3%), illicit drug use (72.6%), and HCV acquisition through intravenous drug use (62.0%). HIV co-infection occurred in 22.6% of patients. The prevalence of each GT was: GT1 51.3%, GT2 1.7%, GT3 30.4%, GT4 16.5%, and GT5.6 0%. Most patients were non-cirrhotic (80.9%) and treatment-naïve (93.8%). The SVR12 rates were 97.9% (95% CI: 92.8 - 99.4), and > 95% across cirrhosis status, GT, illicit drug use, alcohol consumption, and HCV treatment experience. The adverse event rate was 2.6%, and no patient discontinued treatment due to adverse events related to GLE/PIB.Conclusion: Consistent with other real-world studies and clinical trials, treatment with GLE/PIB showed high effectiveness and tolerability overall and in difficult-to-treat subgroups (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03303599).
Práticas corporais de aventura na educação infantil
Authors: Leonardo Filho Paulo Cesar Goncalves , Braz Mariana Antunes , Barros Jéssica Renata Figueiredo , Pereira Caio Zacharias , Oliveira Matheus Leite de , Silva Hellen Costa da , Martins Rodrigo Lema Del Rio
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: relatar uma experiência pedagógica em educação física estruturada por cinco residentes, uma preceptora e um docente orientador do Programa Residência Pedagógica (PRP) em um Centro Municipal de Educação Infantil de Seropédica/RJ. Metodologia: trata-se de um relato de experiência, proveniente de cinco mediações pedagógicas tematizando ludicamente as Práticas Corporais de Aventura (PCAs) com crianças de três a seis anos de idade, entre os meses de maio e junho de 2023. Resultados e discussão: observou-se que as crianças possuem algumas referências sobre as PCAs e mostram-se interessadas em experienciarem esse tipo de prática corporal. Para tanto, é necessário ouvir as suas falas e valorizar sua participação ativa para guiar o planejamento docente. Considerações Finais: a experiência evidenciou ser possível tematizar as PCAs em consonância com a perspectiva da Sociologia da Infância, mostrando-se potente para promover o protagonismo infantil, contribuindo para o adensamento da formação inicial e continuada dos participantes vinculados ao PRP, em especial, na direção de compreender as peculiaridades que cercam o trabalho educativo com crianças pequenas.
“Quem é esse negro na senzala?”
Authors: Cecchetto Jacqueline Rodrigues , Monteiro Luana
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: O presente trabalho busca apresentar reflexões sobre a análise da prática de uma professora de Capoeira e sua ação pedagógica em uma escola, como atividade extracurricular, a fim de desvelar o corpo-capoeira docente e suas potencialidades pedagógicas. Metodologia: O percurso metodológico teve como base a Análise da Prática, como um dispositivo de reflexão e construção de saberes, fundamentado em pressupostos da Autoetnografia. Resultados e discussão: As ações docentes foram descritas e analisadas de acordo com o roteiro reflexivo: descrever (o que faço?), informar (como faço?), confrontar (por que faço dessa maneira?) e reconstruir (como posso fazer diferente?). As brincadeiras nas aulas de Capoeira podem contribuir para a reprodução de estereótipos em torno no negro, da escravidão e da própria Capoeira enquanto arte-luta. O exercício de reflexão, impulsionado a partir das falas e expressões das crianças nas aulas de capoeira, possibilitou desvelar caminhos escolhidos na docência e saberes constitutivos da prática, de modo a recalcular a rota de aprendizagem. Considerações Finais: Torna-se imperativo ao docente que desenvolva seu trabalho de forma crítico-reflexiva, através de dispositivos de análise de prática, para contribuir para uma educação crítica e antirracista.
Stable Levels of Antibodies Against Unrelated Toxoid Vaccines After COVID-19: COVID-19 Infection Does Not Affect Toxoid Vaccine Antibody Levels
Authors: Jokiranta Suvi T. , Miettinen Simo , Salonen Sami , Kareinen Lauri , Uusitalo Ruut , Korhonen Essi M. , Virtanen Jenni , Kivistö Ilkka , Aaltonen Kirsi , Mosselhy Dina A. , Lääveri Tinja , Kantele Anu , Arstila T. Petteri , Jarva Hanna , Vapalahti Olli , Heinonen Santtu , Kekäläinen Eliisa
Published: February 2024

Background: Lymphopenia is common in COVID-19. This has raised concerns that COVID-19 could affect the immune system akin to measles infection, which causes immune amnesia and a reduction in protective antibodies. 
Methods: We recruited COVID-19 patients (n = 59) in Helsinki, Finland, and collected plasma samples on 2 to 3 occasions during and after infection. We measured IgG antibodies to diphtheria toxin, tetanus toxoid, and pertussis toxin, along with total IgG, SARS-CoV-2 spike protein IgG, and neutralizing antibodies. We also surveyed the participants for up to 17 months for long-term impaired olfaction as a proxy for prolonged post-acute COVID-19 symptoms.
Results: No significant differences were found in the unrelated vaccine responses while the serological response against COVID-19 was appropriate. During the acute phase of the disease, the SARS-CoV-2 IgG levels were lower in outpatients when compared to inpatients. SARS-CoV-2 serology kinetics matched expectations. In the acute phase, anti-tetanus and anti-diphtheria IgG levels were lower in patients with prolonged impaired olfaction during follow up than in those without.
Conclusions: We could not detect significant decline in overall humoral immunity during or after COVID-19 infection. In severe COVID-19, there appears to be a temporary decline in total IgG levels.
IV International Scientific and Practical Conference “Homo Legens in the Past and the Present”
Authors: Kozlov S. V.
Published: February 2024

The article is devoted to the IV International scientific and practical conference "Homo legens in the past and the present" held in Novosibirsk and Nizhny Tagil on March 23-25, 2023 in hybrid format. The author aims to provide a general overview of events held within the framework of the scientific forum and to characterize the speeches of researchers, teachers, librarians and students, who took part in it. The relevance of the described event is related to the changes that reading practices are undergoing during the explosive spread of screen culture. The outflow of readers from libraries and the decline in print editions led to the interest of specialists in such problems as forms of reading support, the interaction between reader and book in the library space, issues related to the book design. This review can be beneficial for both to theorists and practitioners working in the field of book and library business as well as for specialists engaged in serving readers and popularizing reading.
Communal cooperative aquatic foraging by Wandering Whistling-Ducks Dendrocygna arcuata
Authors: Frith Clifford , Mason Andy
Published: February 2024

Communal cooperative foraging from the surface of water is here reported for the first time in the Wandering Whistling-Duck Dendrocygna arcuata. Five adult Wandering Whistling-Ducks were observed to form a circle of outwardly facingnindividuals, using their legs and feet to churn the water beneath them and then to duck-dive into the disturbed water within the circle to forage. Such a specific cooperative foraging technique does not appear to have been previously documented in this or any other species of waterfowl.
A Proof of the Riemann Hypothesis Based on a New Expression of the Completed Zeta Function
Authors: Zhang Weicun
Published: February 2024

The celebrated Riemann Hypothesis (RH) is proved based on a new absolute convergent expression of $\xi(s)$, which was obtained from the Hadamard product, through paring $\rho_i$ and $\bar{\rho}_i$, and taking the multiple zeros into consideration in advance, i.e. $$\xi(s)=\xi(0)\prod_{\rho}(1-\frac{s}{\rho})=\xi(0)\prod_{i=1}^{\infty}\Big{(}\frac{\beta_i^2}{\alpha_i^2+\beta_i^2}+\frac{(s-\alpha_i)^2}{\alpha_i^2+\beta_i^2}\Big{)}^{d_{i}}$$ where $\xi(0)=\frac{1}{2}$, $\rho_i=\alpha_i+j\beta_i$ and $\bar{\rho}_i=\alpha_i-j\beta_i$ are the complex conjugate zeros of $\xi(s)$, $0<\alpha_i<1$ and $\beta_i\neq 0$ are real numbers, $d_i\geq 1$ is the real (unique and unchangeable) multiplicity of $\rho_i$, $\beta_i$ are arranged in order of increasing $|\beta_i|$, i.e., $|\beta_1|\leq|\beta_2|\leq|\beta_3|\leq \cdots$, $i =1,2,3, \cdots, \infty$. Then, according to the functional equation $\xi(s)=\xi(1-s)$, we have $$\prod_{i=1}^{\infty}\Big{(}1+\frac{(s-\alpha_i)^2}{\beta_i^2}\Big{)}^{d_{i}}=\prod_{i=1}^{\infty}\Big{(}1+\frac{(1-s-\alpha_i)^2}{\beta_i^2}\Big{)}^{d_{i}}$$ which, owing to the uniqueness and unchangeableness of $d_i$ (see Lemma 3 for the proof details), is finally equivalent to $$\begin{cases}&\alpha_i=\frac{1}{2}\\ & |\beta_1|<|\beta_2|<|\beta_3|<\cdots\\&i =1,2,3, \cdots, \infty \end{cases}$$ Thus, we conclude that the RH is true.
Theoretical and Numerical Investigation of Mechanical Properties of Auxetic S-structure under Transverse Load
Authors: Mondal Prasanna , R. Jayaganthan
Published: February 2024

A significantly reduced stress concentration effect and a stable deformation behavior are exhibited by the arc-like S-shaped auxetic structure. Analytical works beyond the bar and hinge method to capture structural effects, such as bending, shearing, etc., in the S-structure are scarce in the literature. The deformation pattern of the S-structure is dominated by bending and shearing within the linear elastic region. In this work, Timoshenko beam theory is used to derive closed-form expressions for overall elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio. This agrees well with the results of finite element simulations. An adjusted R-square value of over 0.99 and almost 0.82 is obtained for elastic modulus and Poisson’s ratio, respectively. From parametric studies, it’s established that under quasi-static transverse load, strut thickness and the angle `α’ are the most important parameters for controlling elastic modulus, specific energy absorption, negative Poisson’s ratio (NPR) effect, and relative density of the entire auxetic structure. Also, it’s found that energy absorption and elastic modulus increase together. Interestingly, the elastic modulus of the structure under transverse load lies in the range from 3 MPa to 250 MPa, which means this structure is compliant enough and can be used in cushioning, packaging, soft robotics applications, etc.
Dynamic Comprehensive Evaluation of a 660MW Ultra-Supercritical Coal-Fired Unit Based on Improved Criteria Importance through Inter-criteria Correlation and Entropy Weight Method
Authors: Yuan Haotian , Ma Xiaojing , Cheng Zening , Kari Tusongjiang
Published: February 2024

To address the issue of traditional static evaluation models being unable to comprehensively analyse the performance of ultra-supercritical coal-fired units under varying loads, we propose a dynamic comprehensive evaluation model based on the improved Criteria Importance Through Inter-criteria Correlation (CRITIC) method and Entropy Weight Method (EWM). The comprehensive performance evaluation index system of ultra-supercritical coal fired units is constructed by examining the boiler performance, turbine performance, plant power performance, environmental performance, and flexible performance of coal powered units. The CRITIC and EWM methods are used to calculate the weights of the indicators, which are then combined with the static evaluation results. Using a dynamic comprehensive evaluation model, we analysed ultra-supercritical coal-fired units, taking into account time weight. This allowed us to obtain the comprehensive dynamic real-time evaluation value of the units under different loads. The research indicates that the dynamic comprehensive evaluation model, which uses an improved CRITIC and EWM, has significant advantages in improving evaluation accuracy, weight-balanced distribution, and generality. Provides more accurate, reasonable, and reliable evaluation results for practical decision making.
Back to the Future: Immune Protection or Enhancement of Future Coronaviruses.
Authors: Bartels Merit , Sala Sole Eric , Sauerschnig Lotte M , Rijkers Ger T
Published: February 2024

Before the emergence of SARS-CoV-1, MERS-CoV, and most recently SARS-CoV-2, al-ready four other coronaviruses have been circulating in the human population. The alpha coronaviruses NL63 and 229E and the beta coronaviruses OC34 and HKU1. These circulating coronaviruses all cause mild respiratory illness during the winter seasons and most people are already infected in early life. Could antibodies and/or T cells, es-pecially against the beta coronaviruses have offered some form of protection against SARS-CoV-2? Related is the question whether survivors of SARS-CoV-1 or MERS-CoV would be relatively protected against SARS-CoV-2. More importantly, would humoral and cellular immunological memory, generated during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, ei-ther by infection or vaccination offer protection against future coronaviruses? Or rather than protection, could antibody dependent enhancement have taken place, a mecha-nism by which circulating corona antibodies enhance the severity of COVID-19? An-other related phenomenon, the original antigen sin, would also predict that the effec-tivity of the immune response to future coronaviruses would be impaired because of reactivation of memory against irrelevant epitopes. Current available evidence indicates that latter scenarios are highly unlikely and that especially cytotoxic memory T cells directed against conserved epitopes of human coronaviruses could at least offer partial protection against future coronaviruses.
Sustainable Technological Applications of Green Carbon Materials
Authors: Freitas Martinho , Pinto da Silva Luis , Rodrigues Pedro , Silva Joaquim Esteves da
Published: February 2024

Green carbon-based materials (GCM), i.e. carbon materials produced using renewable biomass or recycled wastes, ought to be used in order to processes become sustainable and carbon neutral. Carbon nanomaterials, like for example carbon dots and nanobichar families, and carbon materials, like for example activated carbon and biochar substances, are sustainable materials with great potential to be used in different technology applications. In this review, the following four applications were selected, and the works published in the last two years (since 2022) critically reviewed: agriculture; water treatment; energy management; and, carbon dioxide reduction and sequestration. GCM improved the performance of the technological applications under revision and play an important role in the sustainability of the processes, contributing to the mitigation of the climate change, namely by reducing emission and increase sequestration of CO2eq..
Deep Eutectic Solvents and Rare Earth Elements
Authors: Alguacil Francisco Jose
Published: February 2024

The boosted interest in the use of rare earth elements (REEs) in modern technologies had also increase the necessity of their recovery from various sources, including raw materials and wastes. Though Hydrometallurgy plays a key role in these recovery processes, some drawbacks (apparent or not) of these processes, had led to the development of a more environmental friendship subclass named Solvometallurgy, in which non-aqueous solvents substituted to the aqueous media of the hydrometallurgical processing. The non-aqueous solvents chosen for these usages are, besides ionic liquids (ILs), the so-named Deep Eutectic Solvents (DEEs). The utilization of DEEs included the leaching of REEs from the different sources containing them, and also in the separation-purification steps necessary for the yielding of these elements, normally as oxides or salts, in the most purified form. This work reviewed the most recent literature (2023 year) about the utilization of deep eutectic solvents in the recovery of REEs from various sources, and in the coupling of these two (DESs and REEs) to derived compounds to be used in other fields.
A Scoping Review of Tobacco Control Health Communication in Africa: Towards Involving Young People
Authors: Aienobe-Asekharen Charity , Norris Emma , Martin Wendy
Published: February 2024

Health communication has been highlighted as a cost-effective preventive intervention in Africa where prevalence of tobacco use is still relatively low compared to other World Health Organization (WHO) regions. This scoping review aims to examine tobacco control health communication interventions in Africa.

The review was guided by the PRISMA-ScR checklist. Data was extracted from twenty peer-reviewed papers, WHO Global Health Observatory on Anti-tobacco mass media campaigns for 54 African countries, and six WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control reports on Article 12. Data extraction informed by JBI data extraction questions was used for peer review studies while a pre-determined template was used for the other sources. Narrative data synthesis informed by the JBI manual for evidence synthesis was employed.

Lack of research that comprehensively address all areas of health communication and Inconsistent use of health communication campaigns was identified. Only an average of 6 countries had ever implemented effective mass media campaigns in a decade while an average of 33 countries consistently failed to conduct campaigns that lasted more than 3 weeks. Although the involvement of key populations was clearly vital to ensure content relevance and message clarity; a lack of health communication informed by young people was observed as they rarely participated in key decision-making despite reportedly being targets of interventions.

Clear health communication for tobacco use prevention informed by young people is lacking in African countries. Active participation of young people in developing targeted campaigns is needed to facilitate content relevance and comprehension to ultimately contribute to tobacco use prevention.
Advancing Research Training in Medical Education: Global Perspectives and Paradigms for Future Development
Authors: Ahmed Yasar , Khayal Sima
Published: February 2024

This study delves into the dynamic field of medical education research, emphasizing the integration of research training within medical curricula. It seeks to understand the impact of such integration on the competencies of future medical professionals. The primary aim is to systematically categorize and analyze the current trends and future directions in medical education research. This involves assessing the influence of research training on medical students' skills and the methodologies used in such research. Methods: The research employs an extensive bibliographic literature review across multiple databases. It classifies studies into categories like experiential or case studies, editorials, and original research articles. This classification is based on criteria such as geographical location, research objectives, theoretical frameworks, and methodologies. Results: Findings reveal a diverse landscape in medical education research, with a significant emphasis on research training. The research showcases varying methodologies and approaches used globally, highlighting the thematic focus and geographical distribution of these studies. Conclusion: Medical education research is a globally expansive and evolving field. It underscores the importance of continuous investigation, particularly focusing on integrating research elements at curricular levels and exploring innovative educational strategies. The study also points out potential gaps in research, especially in underrepresented regions, indicating directions for future research efforts.
Halophilic Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria as Producers of Antifungal Metabolites under Salt Stress
Authors: Ould Ouali Karima , Houali Karim , Cruz Cristina , Melo Juliana , Benakli Yasmina , Ousmer Lila , Madani Zahia , Nabti El-hafid
Published: February 2024

Salinity is one of the major factors responsible for the deterioration of soils, making them unsuitable for agriculture. The application of halotolerant and halophilic plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPR: Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria) with biological control activities as an inoculant of cultivated plants offers a biological alternative to the use of agrochemicals, particularly when subjected to salt stress. In this perspective, 70 bacterial strains were isolated from saline soils (sebkha) in arid and semi-arid areas of eastern Algeria. Three isolates were selected based on their ability to produce bioactive molecules allowing them to promote plant growth, such as hydrolytic enzymes, indole acetic acid, HCN, NH3, etc. Two of these isolates belong to the genus Serratia and the third is a halophilic Halomonas bacteria. These bacteria were identified based on the 16S rDNA sequence. Antagonism tests against phytopathogenic fungi were carried out. The identification of the antifungal molecules produced by these bacteria was done by high performance liquid chromatography. These bacteria are capable of inhibiting mycelial development against phytopathogenic fungi with rates reaching 80.67% against Botrytis cinerea, 76.22% against Aspergillus niger and 66.67% against Fusarium culmorum for Serratia sp. The strain Halomonas sp. inhibited mycelial growth by production of volatile substances of Aspergillus niger at 71.29%, Aspergillus flavus at 75.49% and Penicillium glabrum at a rate of 72.22%. The identification by HPLC of the antifungal molecules produced by these three bacteria reveals that they are polyphenols, which makes these strains the first rhizobacteria capable of producing phenolic compounds. Finally, pot tests to determine the effectiveness of these strains in promoting wheat growth under salinity stress (125 mM, 150 mM and 200 mM) were carried out. The results revealed that a consortium of two isolates (Serratia sp. and Halomonas sp.) performed best at 125 mM. But, at higher concentrations it was the halophilic bacteria Halomonas sp which gave the best result. In all cases, there was a significant improvement in the growth of wheat seedlings inoculated with the bacteria, compared to non-inoculated controls.