bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Tariff reductions, wages, and internal worker migration: Evidence from China
Authors: Ji Zhenhua , Wang Jiang , Liu Kai 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We examine the internal worker migration responses to tariff abroad reductions and to China’s tariff cuts following China’s trade liberalization and show that one key channel of impact has been employment. We first develop a general equilibrium model with heterogeneous workers and firms to demonstrate the mechanisms. We then conduct empirical analysis at the migration route level by employing a population gravity equation and find that prefectures facing reductions in tariffs abroad experience wage growth and labor inflow surge, while prefectures encountering reduced China’s tariffs face falling wages and fewer worker residing. The southeastern coastal, industrialized, and urbanized prefectures attract more labor inflows due to their higher exposure to tariff reductions. Migration of male, unskilled, married, and parous female workers is more susceptible to tariff reductions.
Sero-prevalence and risk factors for hepatitis B virus infection among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Adigrat General Hospital, Eastern Tigrai, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Kahsu Getachew , Gebrewahd Aderajew , Berhe Brhane , Belay Getachew , Tesfanchal Birhane , Kahsay Tsega , Fseha Berhane , Tadesse Senait , Birhane Mulugeta , Gebre Mulualem , Petrucka Pammla 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is one of the most common health problems worldwide and is associated with high mortality and heavy economic burdens. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and associated risk factors among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Adigrat General Hospital in Northern Ethiopia.
METHODS
An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from January to March, 2024, among 385 pregnant women. Participants were selected through a systematic random sampling method. Sociodemographic and associated factor data were collected using a structured questionnaire, and 5 mL blood samples were collected. The data were subsequently entered into EPI Info and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics were computed. Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses were employed to measure associations, and values < 0.05 were considered to indicate statistical significance.
RESULTS
The overall seroprevalence of HBsAg among the 385 study subjects enrolled was 10.4% (n = 40). HBsAg was common in all age groups. The prevalence of infection was greater in those who had a history of multiple sexual partners (22.7%), early piercing (13.4%), or abortion (27.6%), as was the history of delivery (26.3%) and genital mutilation (35.7%). According to multivariate logistic regression, patients were unmarried (AOR 8.57; 95% CI 3.20-22.93), illiterate (AOR 12.06; 95% CI 3.07–47.33), had a history of ear piercing (AOR 5.66; 95% CI 1.65–19.45), a history of abortion (AOR 8.16; 95% CI 3.18–20.95), a history of home delivery (AOR 6.69; 95% CI 1.26–35.53) and a history of genital mutilation (AOR 9.77; 95% CI 2.64–36.18) for acquiring HBV infection compared to their counterparts.
Conclusions
The results showed that HBV was highly prevalent in our study area. Being unmarried, having a low educational level, having an ear piercing, having an abortion, having a home delivery and having genital mutilation were significantly associated with HBV infection. Therefore, these findings suggest that health education programs should be provided to the community to increase awareness among mothers.
A physical emulation of somatosensory cortex as a
Neuromorphic Twin for neural prostheses
Authors: Ramirez Hector , Donati Elisa , Behrens Wolfger von der , Indiveri Giacomo , Valle Giacomo 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Loss of tactile feedback in patients with paralysis or limb loss prevents the integration of sensory-motor signals, limiting dexterous motor control. Recent advances in the neurostimulation of the human somatosensory cortex offer the possibility of restoring touch in these patients. Brain-computer interfaces and bidirectional prostheses with implantable electrodes can restore feedback, improving control, awareness, and quality of life. However, current electrical stimulation methods lack the fidelity to consistently and reliably reproduce natural sensations, and the impact of this stimulation on the somatosensory cortex remains unclear. Here we propose to use a mixed-signal neuromorphic processing system to construct a “neuromorphic twin” of the somatosensory cortex, following a bottom-up approach for emulating and reproducing its intricate dynamics. We use the analog properties of electronic neuron and synapse circuits to faithfully replicate neural and synaptic response properties. To reproduce effects at the network level, we configure the neuromorphic processor to implement the recurrent connectivity patterns of the somatosensory cortex among different populations of excitatory and inhibitory silicon neurons. Our findings demonstrate the twin’s ability to reproduce the spatiotemporal firing patterns of the native neuronal population receiving afferent fiber inputs, resulting in a highly bio-realistic model that can be used to investigate the effect of different stimulation patterns. This physical emulation of the cortical circuits represents therefore an additional tool to understand and predict the somatosensory cortex behavior under neurostimulation. Using this system, neurostimulation patterns can be optimized to produce more natural sensations and ultimately improve the quality of restored feedback, leading to a better quality of life for affected patients.
Sensitivity of the land surface temperature and NDWI index to soil moisture on wheat and barley
Authors: Beninato Sabrina , Holzman Mauro E. , Rivas Raúl E. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The spatial monitoring of crop water status is crucial for agricultural purposes. The aim of this study was to analyze the sensitivity and response times of land surface temperature (LST) and the Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI) to changes in soil moisture (VWC) in barley and wheat crops at plot scale in southeastern Argentine Pampas. VWC and LST were recorded daily by stations installed over the crops, and NDWI from Sentinel 2 (S2). Results showed instantaneous correlations between VWC and LST (r>-0.65) for soil depths explored by crop roots (20-50 cm). Correlations with NDWI were negative, which lacks biophysical meaning from a soil-plant system perspective. However, this index showed lower maximum values during the dry campaign. During the critical period of crops, the relationship between NDWI and VWC at 10 cm was positive, with a high correlation (r≈0.92) when considering responses with a 1-day time lag. This study contributes to the understanding of crops spectral behavior in the optical and thermal spectrum according to their water status, which is key to evaluating the usefulness of these data for monitoring agricultural systems.
Investigating the Bianchi IX universe within Brans Dicke theory &amp; a novel deceleration parameter.
Authors: MISHRA RAVI KANT , Sharma Rahul 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In the present paper, we have presented the cosmological model in Brans-Dicke theory (BDT) of gravity for a Bianchi type-IX space-time. We obtained the exact solutions of the field equations by applying the new form of deceleration parameter, i.e., FLVDP as proposed by Mishra et al. (2016). In the "Results and Discussion" section, we have also presented the physical and geometric properties and mathematical analysis of the proposed model in Sections 4. Sect. 7 of this communication is equipped with energy conditions and statefinder diagnostic.
Growth, Unemployment and Inflation in Sub-Saharan Africa: The role of Financial Development and legal systems and Property Rights
Authors: Salifu Mubarik , Peprah James Atta , Cantah William Godfred 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Sub-Saharan Africa faces many challenges,such as poverty, inequality, conflict, corruption, and weak institutions. However, it also has potential for economic growth and development due to its abundant natural resources, young population, and increasing global integration. Thisstudy examines the impact of financial development on economic growth, unemployment, and inflation in sub-Saharan Africa. It also investigates the moderating effects of property rights and legal systems. The study uses panel data from 41 sub-Saharan African countries covering the years 2000–2020 and employs the smoothed sequential quantile regression technique for the empirical analysis. The findings show that at the 25th, 50th, and 75th quantiles, financial development has a positive effect on economic growth and unemployment, while it has a negative effect on inflation. These results highlight the importance of financial development for promoting economic prosperity and stability in the region. Employment increases while inflationand economic progressexpand when property rights interact with legal systems. Sturdy institutions and law structures are key to tapping into financial growth's full potential for jobs, prices, and expansion. The study showedthat lawmakers should bolster law frameworks and property rights enforcement, limit corruption, guard property rights, and improve transparency while supporting financial growth. This study underscores how vital is sub-Saharan Africa's need to grow capital markets, diversify, and enable financial inclusion.
Study of risk factors for acute coronary syndrome in young people
Authors: Hamdan Diaa Yahya , Alarbid Tala Haitham , Ali Diaa Haj , shamieh Marwan 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Acute coronary syndrome is a condition in which there is a lack of blood supply and oxygen to the heart muscle, due to blockage or narrowing of the coronary arteries, which leads to a mismatch between the supply and demand of oxygen.
Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) refers to a group of conditions that include ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI), and unstable angina. It is a type of coronary heart disease (CHD), which is responsible for one-third of total deaths in people older than 35.
Research Materials and Methods
A retrospective cohort study (COHORT) was conducted On a random group of patients from January 2018 to January 2023. The research approval (CV 8093) was given by the Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Medicine, Damascus University, Syria.
Results
The sample included 250 patients, of which 20 were excluded, leaving us with 230 cases on which research and statistics were conducted. 19.1% were females and 80.9% were males. Participants are classified into three groups, with the age group (36 – 40) years representing the majority 71.7%.
Patients with coronary disease were divided into 3 categories according to the disease type. Research and statistics showed that 60.9% of them presented with unstable angina.
The results showed that the largest percentage of patients suffering from unstable angina were from the age group 36-40 years, at a rate of 63.6%, and the relationship was statistically significant (p-value=0.01).
Conclusion
It is necessary to hold medical seminars on coronary heart diseaseand explain the difference between its types.
Clinical efficacy of various regimens of systemic glucocorticoids therapy in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Voloshin N. I. , Salukhov V. V. , Minakov A. A. , Prokhorova M. O. , Belyakova T. A. , Kochukova V. V. 
Published: May 2024

Introduction. Systemic glucocorticoids have been successfully used in the treatment of patients with moderate to severe COVID-19. However, the best clinical efficacy dosage regimen and duration of glucocorticoid usage is remained unclear.Aim. To evaluate the results of using different regimens of systemic glucocorticoid therapy in the treatment of patients with moderate and severe COVID-19.Materials and methods. The results of a retrospective study of medical papers of 200 patients who had moderate to severe COVID-19 in the period from May 2020 to December 2021 are presented. The inclusion criterion was the use different regimens of doses and durations systemic glucocorticoid therapy in these patients without the use blockers of Janus kinases. and genetically engineered biological drugs. Clinical effectiveness was assessed by the severity and sufficiency of the anti-inflammatory effect, the frequency and nature of side effects of this therapy.Results. The regimen of glucocorticoids at a dose equivalent to 6 mg/day of dexamethasone for 7 days demonstrated the greatest clinical effectiveness: it significantly reduced C-reactive protein, hematological inflammatory indices,% lung tissue damage, minimally affecting carbohydrate metabolism and hemostasis. Glucocorticoid therapy equivalent to 20 mg/day of dexamethasone for more than 7 days and pulse-therapy for 3 days demonstrated significantly lower clinical effectiveness.Conclusions. In patients with moderate to severe COVID-19, it is reasonable to use a dose of glucocorticoid equivalent to 6 mg/day of dexamethasone for 7 to 10 days, or equivalent to 20 mg/day for no more than 7 days. The use of pulse therapy and the use of glucocorticoids at a dose equivalent to ≥ 20 mg/day of dexamethasone for a duration of 7 days are not recommended. To assess the dynamics of inflammation and monitor the effectiveness of glucorticoid therapy, in addition to routine markers of inflammation, it is recommended to use hematological inflammatory indices.
Substantiation of pharmacological correction of the condition of the ocular surface in postcovid syndrome
Authors: Kintyukhina N. P. , Safonova T. N. , Zaitseva G. V. 
Published: May 2024

Introduction. Oxidative stress is a factor in the pathogenesis of postcovid microcirculatory conjunctival disorders. Antioxidant protection preparations are represented by vitamin and mineral complexes and drops that protect cells from free radical oxidation. These include taurine, the active ingredient of which is taurine.Aim. To evaluate the effectiveness of the effect on the state of the microcirculatory bed of the conjunctiva and the reparative properties of the drug taurine in postcovid syndrome.Material and methods. The study included 41 patients (82 eyes), in the postcovid period (more than 12 months after the coronavirus infection), divided into 2 groups. The examination consisted of: clinical examination, functional tests (Schirmer test, Norn test, vital dye tests), laser Doppler flowmetry. Treatment: instillation of 0.1% hyaluronic acid, dexpanthenol. Group 1 patients additionally received 4% taurine 3 times a day.Results and discussion. The effectiveness of therapy was evaluated after 1, 3 and 6 months. The condition of the cornea was monitored weekly for a month. Results: improvement of clinical and functional (decrease in OSDI index, reduction of conjunctival hyperemia, restoration of corneal epithelium) and instrumental indicators (increase in blood flow velocity in vessels of bulbar conjunctiva) in group 1 patients was established after 1 week and 1 month, with preservation of results by 6 months; in patients of group 2 (with less pronounced dynamics) – after 2 weeks and 3 months and moderate suppression of the intensity of the functioning of the regulatory systems of microcirculation by the 6th month of follow-up. Conclusions: due to the cytoprotective and reparative effect on the ocular surface, improvement of the main indicators of microcirculation, the drug can be recommended for use in patients with impaired microcirculation of the conjunctiva and the presence of corneal epitheliopathy in postcovid syndrome.
Latent mastoiditis (literature review)
Authors: Dubinets I. D. , Sinitskii A. I. , Kudrina I. D. , Mezhakova D. A. , Koroleva A. N. , Fastakovskaya K. S. 
Published: May 2024

Introduction. Mastoiditis is an extracranial complication of acute or chronic purulent otitis media, leading to periostitis or osteitis of the mastoid process, accompanied by obvious symptoms and requiring urgent surgical treatment. Latent mastoiditis is defined as a stage of local inflammation due to acute otitis media, without an obvious clinical picture of progressive destruction of the bone cells of the mastoid process. Recently, there has been a trend towards an increase in indolent forms of mastoiditis. The use of systemic antibiotic therapy for the treatment of acute otitis media complicates timely diagnosis and contributes to the chronicity of inflammation in the structures of the temporal bone. Making a diagnosis of latent mastoiditis requires vigilance from outpatient clinicians and the use of objective imaging methods due to the risk of developing intracranial complications.Aim. Conduct a review of literature sources to determine diagnostic criteria for the formation of latent mastoiditis in outpatient patients.Materials and methods. A search was carried out for articles from public databases using the query: “latent mastoiditis”, including data from literary sources whose authors made a significant contribution to the development of otorhinolaryngology. Summary data of the literature review, including both original studies and descriptions of clinical cases, identifying the main causes of the formation of latent mastoiditis and its clinical symptoms.Results and discussion. Local inflammation of the mastoid process, due to acute otitis media, has a progressive course of chronic sluggish inflammation of the bone structures of the temporal bone. Diagnosis of latent mastoiditis causes difficulties for practical healthcare doctors due to subtle clinical manifestations, and therefore it is necessary to determine the indications for referral to computed tomography.Conclusion. The medical and social significance of latent mastoiditis is that it has an unfavorable not only functional, but sometimes life prognosis, as it can cause the development of intracranial complications.
Pharmacological action of epoetin beta in the treatment of anemia in patients with kidney diseases
Authors: Shormanov I. S. , Zhigalov S. A. , Soloviev A. S. , Bazhina О. V. 
Published: May 2024

Chronic kidney disease is becoming one of the leading causes of death globally. Anemia, a common complication in chronic kidney disease, not only diminishes patients’ life quality but also increases the risk of heart-related problems. The use of recombinant human erythropoietin has revolutionized the treatment of anemia in chronic kidney disease patients. By reaching the desired levels of hemoglobin with recombinant human erythropoietin, patients experience significant improvements in life quality and a decrease in death rates. Epoetin beta is among the various erythropoiesis stimulating agents available in the market. Research indicates that weekly doses of epoetin beta are as effective as three weekly doses of epoietin alpha for reaching hemoglobin goals in patients undergoing renal replacement therapy. This not only enhances patients’ adherence to the treatment but also cuts down on the time and costs associated with managing renal anemia, thus allowing for a therapy that is more tailored to patient needs. On the one hand, this improves patients’ adherence to the treatment. On the other hand, the time and cost burden in the management of renal anemia is decreased due to reduction in recombinant human erythropoietin prescribing rates, which eventually makes it possible to better tailor therapy to the patients’ needs. The proven efficacy and safety profile of epoetin beta combined with the increased convenience of less frequent dosing, make epoetin beta a safe and effective treatment option that can help more patients with chronic kidney disease to reach their target hemoglobin levels.
Therapeutic combination of "keys" to target low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level
Authors: Kashtalap V. V. , Sedykh D. Yu. 
Published: May 2024

This article updates the continuing high prevalence of lipid metabolism disorders and their connection with the development of cardiovascular pathology associated with atherosclerosis. Attention is focused on the existing lack of adherence to the correction of dyslipidemia, both on the part of patients and medical workers, as well as the problem of failure to achieve target levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol with standard statin treatment. The evolution of modern therapy for lipid metabolism disorders is shown and the feasibility of early initiation of combination treatment in patients with very high and high cardiovascular risk in the presence of severe dyslipidemia is substantiated, and possible treatment strategies existing in current recommendations are outlined. In the presented work, using the example of an outpatient 54 years old after undergoing stenting of the coronary arteries, who has a very high cardiovascular risk (established diagnoses of coronary heart disease, post-infarction cardiosclerosis, hypertension) with failure to achieve the target level of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol of less than 1.4 mmol/l The therapeutic effectiveness of a double combination – an inhibitor of cholesterol absorption in the intestine – ezetimibe at a dose of 10 mg with a statin at the maximum tolerated dosage was demonstrated. It has been shown that the proposed combined lipid-lowering treatment is clinically and laboratory safe. Arguments in favor of starting combination treatment in this clinical case include not only the failure to achieve the target value of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol on high-intensity statin monotherapy as part of secondary prevention and possible familial hypercholesterolemia, but also a hereditary history of cardiovascular pathology, early onset of cardiovascular diseases in patient.