bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IMPACT OF GOLD MINING ON FLORA: THE CASE OF THE SISSENGUE GOLD MINE (NORTHERN COTE DIVOIRE)
Authors:   University Jean Lorougnon Guede de Daloa, Environmental Training and Research Unit, BP 150 Daloa, Cote dIvoire., Bruno Kpangui Kouassi , Apollinaire Kouakou Kouassi ,   University Jean Lorougnon Guede de Daloa, Environmental Training and Research Unit, BP 150 Daloa, Cote dIvoire., Achille Koffi NGuessan ,   University Jean LorougnonGuede de Daloa, Agroforestry Training and Research Unit, BP 150 Daloa, Cote dIvoire., Sangne Charles ,   University Jean Lorougnon Guede de Daloa, Environmental Training and Research Unit, BP 150 Daloa, Cote dIvoire.
Published: November 2021

This study was initiated to contribute to the sustainable management of biodiversity in mining sites in Cote dIvoire. Its objective is to determine the impacts of gold mining activities on the flora of the Sissengue gold mine located in the department of Tengrela in northern Cote dIvoire. The flora inventory was conducted along a 500 m transect combined with the surface survey and roving inventory methods. The surface survey method consisted of delimiting a 25 m x 25 m (400 m2) plot at the end of each transect. In total, nine (09) types of land use were identified in the site, namely annual crops, perennial crops, open forests, forest galleries, tree savannahs, shrub savannahs, burned areas, lakes or water reservoirs, and locality. The floristic inventories carried out in seven (07) types of land occupations allowed the identification of 207 plant species distributed among 155 genera and 61 families. In addition, thirteen (13) species with special ecological status and seven (07) species included in the IUCN red list, four of which are vulnerable. However, the floristic diversity is low in all plant formations with an average of 1.91. The shrubby savannahs record the highest densities with 1705 stems/ha while the forest galleries and open forests record the highest values of basal area, with respectively 37.2 m2/ha and 28.1 m2/ha. These vegetation formations are disturbed by the mines gold mining activities. Efforts to conserve areas dedicated to biodiversity conservation must be a priority for mining sites in Cote dIvoire.
Impact of commodities and global stock prices on the idiosyncratic risk of Bitcoin during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Cayón Fallon Edgardo , Sarmiento Julio
Published: November 2021

In times of exogenous systemic shocks, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to identify hedge or safe haven assets. Therefore, this paper analyzes changes in the idiosyncratic risk of Bitcoin in a portfolio of commodities and global stocks. For this purpose, the M-GARCH model employed considers the interdependence among all the portfolio assets by using a time-varying asset pricing framework. This framework measures the impact of commodities and global stock prices as sources of systemic risk for Bitcoin returns before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The evidence suggests that during the COVID-19 pandemic, the effects of changes in commodities and global prices on the idiosyncratic risk of Bitcoin were statistically significant. The idiosyncratic risk of Bitcoin measured as a percentage of total variance not accounted for by the proposed model rose from 86.06% to 95.05% during the pandemic. These results are in line with previous studies regarding the properties of Bitcoin as a hedge or safe haven asset for a portfolio composed of commodities and global stocks.
Combining agriculture, social and climate indicators to classify vulnerable regions in the Indian semi-arid region
Authors: Kalli Rajesh , Jena Pradyot Ranjan
Published: November 2021

Climate change vulnerability is highly counter-productive for agriculture among the arid and semi-arid regions. The study constructs the agriculture vulnerability index for Karnataka, a south Indian state. The state has faced frequent climate-related shocks in the last decade. The district-wise vulnerability index is estimated using longitudinal data considering exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity as sub-indices. The results show that the districts in the north interior region of Karnataka are highly vulnerable to the climate change followed by the districts in the south interior and coastal regions. There is an urgent need to prioritize the most vulnerable districts while formulating the development policies to minimize the risk of climate change on agriculture. Specific technical knowledge and support need to be made available to the farmers for informative climate resilience action.
El aprovechamiento del Tratado de Libre Comercio entre la República del Perú y la República de Chile desde la mirada del agronegocio
Authors: Morales M. Roberto J.
Published: November 2021

El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar el grado de aprovechamiento del Tratado de Libre Comercio (TLC) suscrito entre Perú y Chile desde la mirada de los agronegocios. Los objetivos específicos fueron determinar las partidas arancelarias aprovechadas y las no aprovechadas. La investigación es cuantitativa, de alcance descriptivo, básica, con un diseño no experimental longitudinal. La técnica fue la observación directa, estructurada e individual, analizando el período comprendido entre los años 2009 al 2015 con las estadísticas del Trade Map, SUNAT y MINCETUR sobre el comportamiento de las partidas de los 24 capítulos del Sistema Armonizado de Designación y Codificación de Mercancías, vinculados a los agronegocios. La firma del Tratado trajo beneficios, más allá de la liberación arancelaria. Conforme a los resultados, se concluye que el TLC se podría aprovechar mucho más, se desaprovechan 2411 partidas, solo 88 se aprovechan y 51 partidas incrementaron la oferta exportable. Se requiere continuar investigando y profundizar con el estudio de las Subpartidas, las que no se exportan o disminuyeron, a fin de encontrar nuevas oportunidades de negocio y ampliación de la oferta exportable, considerar políticas que incentiven las exportaciones con valor agregado, propiciar una mayor la difusión de los beneficios del Tratado, fortalecer las cadenas asociativas productivas agrarias, desarrollar programas de capacitación a productores agropecuarios y exportadores para difundir las ventajas del TLC y sean mejor aprovechados todos los nichos de negocio.
Caracterización de los Lectores Registrados de una Web Informativa con el algoritmo K-Means para Incrementar las Ventas
Authors: Soto Rodríguez Iván , Clemente Rivera Brian Erick
Published: November 2021

El presente artículo abordó el desarrollo de un nuevo método de caracterización para los lectores registrados de un sitio web de noticias basado en su comportamiento de uso y temas de interés que leen con frecuencia para crear productos adicionales y encontrar oportunidades comerciales en una compañía peruana de medios de comunicación. Se utilizaron variables del entorno digital como el tipo de notas a la que acceden según la sección en la que estas se encuentran alojadas, complementándose con datos no digitales como la información sociodemográfica (edad, género), de ubicación (país), entre otras que disponibles en la empresa. Se han considerado la información de 19,375 lectores correspondientes a un periodo de tres meses de análisis, y fueron obtenidos mediante las herramientas de Google, Analytics 360 y BigQuery. Para la generación de las agrupaciones se empleó el algoritmo k-means, un método de análisis clúster no jerárquico y una técnica de aprendizaje no supervisado; además, todos los cálculos computacionales, así como la construcción del conjunto de datos final se efectuaron con el software R, que contiene múltiples funciones que facilitaron estas actividades. Como conclusión se obtuvieron y definieron seis segmentos, los cuales permitieron ofrecer una ventaja competitiva a los clientes en términos de publicidad ya que podrán seleccionar la audiencia específica a la que quieran impactar, mejorando en gran medida los resultados que se obtendrían comparado con las estrategias digitales convencionales; además, se realizarán acciones para incrementar el número de suscriptores con el fin de repotenciar estos grupos e incrementar los ingresos obtenidos anualmente.
The Association between Parameters of Erythrocytes Morphology and
Thrombophilia-related Mutations
Authors: Oz Ozlem , Gonel Ataman
Published: November 2021

Background:

Alterations in erythrocyte morphology parameters have been identified
and associated with hematological disorders and other chronic and cardiovascular diseases. Erythrocytes
are abundant in thrombus content. Their hemoglobin density and differences in the ratio of
macrocytic and microcytic cells may be associated with hypercoagulopathy in those with a history
of thrombosis.

Objective:

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the relationship between hemogram parameters
and thrombophilia genetic parameters.

Method:

A total of 55 patients whose thrombophilia panel was reviewed due to the diagnosis of
thrombosis were included in the study. % MIC, % MAC, % HPO, % HPR and all hemogram parameters
were measured using Abbott Alinity HQ. Prothrombin G20210A, MTHFR C677T, MTHFR
A1298C, Factor V Leiden G169A and PAI-1 4G/5G mutations were studied using Real Time-
PCR.

Results:

The MTHFR C677T mutation was detected in 58.2% of the patients. The Factor V Leiden
mutation was detected in 5.5% of the patients. The MTHFR A1298C mutation was detected in
58.2%, The PAI mutation was detected in 74.5%, and the Factor 13 mutation was detected in 29%
of the patients. Prothrombin G20210A mutation was not detected in any of the patients. Red blood
cell (RBC) and hematocrit (Hct) values were higher in Factor 13 mutant group; the Hgb and Htc
values were higher in the MTHFR C677T mutant group. The plateletcrit (PCT) and platelet (PLT)
values were lower in MTHFR C677T mutant group.

Conclusion:

The MTHFR C677T and Factor 13 mutations may be associated with high Hct and
Hgb, RBC, Hgb, and Htc values, respectively and coagulation tendency in patients with a history
of thrombosis.
Association of Fear and Annoyance with Acoustic Levels of Dental Equipment Among Adolescents Attending Rural Dental Health Center: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Gadupudi Salini , Siddanna Sunitha , Chandrashekar Byalakere R. , Rudraswamy Sushma
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

Noise is increasingly becoming pervasive in occupational health concerning practicing dentists as well as patients. A stimulus such as noise from dental equipment compared to anxiety is often multifactorial and can result from a combination of fear of pain, dental instruments noise, or even upcoming negative events and future threats.

Aim:

This study aimed to assess fear and annoyance levels among adolescents attending a rural dental health centre and compare the acoustic noise levels of dental equipment and its association with fear and annoyance levels among adolescents.

Methods:

The acoustic noise spectra originating from different tools/equipment in a rural dental health centre is assessed using an application named sound meter of a standard mobile android phone (Samsung galaxy grand 2). Following a 15-minute treatment, a questionnaire was filled by a professional investigator through personal interviews with all subjects. The data is subjected to analysis by Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22.0.

Results:

61.5% of the subjects felt anxious about the anticipatory dental visit, and there was a significant difference observed between genders. Chi-square analysis revealed no significant differences in the fear and annoyance with increasing noise levels in various treatment groups. (p> 0.05).

Conclusion:

In the present study, fear and annoyance levels increased with increasing noise levels of equipment. Annoyance was found to be significantly higher in females.
Evaluating the Knowledge of General Dentist Towards the Management of Peri-Implant Diseases: A Multi-Center, Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alqahtani Ali R. , Gufran Khalid , Alqahtani Abdulaziz M. , Alazemi Faisal N. , Alzahrani Khaled M.
Published: November 2021

Background:

Recently, implants have been widely considered as an option for replacing missing teeth. There are several biological conditions that must be considered for the success of an implant. Failure to satisfy any of these factors may result in complications, such as peri-implantitis or failure of the implant.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the general dentist's attitude towards the management of peri-implant diseases in Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

A multicenter cross-sectional electronic-based questionnaire was formulated based on the validated questionnaire from a previous study. It was targeted towards the general dental practitioners in Saudi Arabia. The study sample consisted of 721 general dental practitioners. The questionnaire consisted of 17 questions divided into five sections. Pearson's chi-square test was used for inferential statistical analysis with Holm's correction, for adjusted p-value, the alpha at 95% confidence interval was 0.05, and all values below alpha were considered statistically significant.

Results:

The majority of participants had attended an implant training course (51.2%) while the rest had not (48.7%). The majority of the participants (67.3%) thought they need special instruments for the detection of peri-implantitis but only 29.5% thought they do not need any special instruments for the intended purpose. Most participants (79.3%) said they can identify and differentiate between normal and abnormal soft tissue around an implant, while 6.5% of the respondents could not. More than half of the participants (54.8%) could differentiate between peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis, and 19.4% had no idea about this. Amoxicillin & metronidazole was considered as the best and most effective antibiotic by the majority of respondents (76%), while only (5%) of dentists selected ciprofloxacin.

Conclusion:

This study concludes by suggesting that most of the participants have adequate knowledge about peri-implant soft tissue assessment, mechanism of periodontitis and peri-implantitis, its initiation and progression along with its management. Most of the participants found the training courses on peri-implantitis to be efficient. It is recommended to conduct more courses and studies that would aim at understanding the pathogenesis, etiology, diagnosis, and treatment of peri-implant diseases so as to increase awareness among general dentists.
Socioeconomic and Demographic Determinants of Body Mass Index in Sudan: A Predictive Model
Authors: Abdallah Ahmed , Mohammed Mohammed , Ayele Dawit
Published: November 2021

Background:

This paper aimed to determine the socioeconomic and demographic determinants related to Body Mass Index (BMI) for children under five years in Sudan. The objective of the study was to identify the factors of BMI for under-five children.

Methods:

This study used the Sudan Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) conducted in the year 2014. The multinomial logistic regression model was adopted.

Results:

Results revealed that the prevalence of underweight infants under five years was 86.3% in females and 85.3% in males, while the proportion of the normal weight of infants under five years of age for males was slightly higher than females; there was a correlation amid geographic determinants, state, and BMI status. Also, there was a significant association between the mother’s education and body mass index status and the wealth index and body mass index status. The variables place of residence and sex did not show a statistically significant relationship with body mass index status for children under five years of age in Sudan.

Conclusion:

The risk factors significantly associated with body mass were the state, whether the child had ever been breastfed, sex, mother’s education, wealth index, and age in the month.
Knowledge and Attitudes of Pregnant Thai Women Regarding Modes of Birth: A Hospital-Based Study in Southern Thailand
Authors: Matemanosak Phawat , Suwanrath Chitkasaem
Published: November 2021

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the knowledge and attitudes of pregnant Thai women regarding modes of birth.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted at Songklanagarind Hospital. A total of 605 women with a singleton pregnancy and gestational age >20 weeks who attended an antenatal clinic from September 2018 to June 2019 were recruited. Women having a history of cesarean section, or any condition associated with indications for cesarean section, having a fetus with an obvious anomaly, could not read or write in the Thai language, or could not complete the questionnaire were excluded. Their knowledge and attitudes regarding modes of birth were evaluated through self-administered questionnaires.

Results:

Most women (69.4%) had poor knowledge scores (<5), with a median score of 3 (range, 0-9). Only 14.5% of women knew about serious complications of cesarean section in future pregnancies(placental adherence). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that factors associated with adequate knowledge scores (>5) were high educational levels (OR 2.06; 95% CI 1.23-3.47), high incomes (OR 1.96; 95%CI 1.32-2.90), and multiparity(OR 1.73; 95%CI 1.18-2.52). Most women had positive attitudes towards vaginal birth. Only 10.2% of women had a preference for cesarean birth. Factors associated with the preference for cesarean birth were advanced maternal age (OR 3.10; 95%CI 1.72-5.60), having an underlying disease (OR 3.61; 95% CI 1.79-7.25), and poor knowledge scores (OR 2.43; 95% CI 1.21-4.91).

Conclusion:

Most pregnant Thai women had poor knowledge of the modes of birth. However, the majority of women had positive attitudes towards vaginal birth.
Factors Associated with Self-Care Behavior of Elderly Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in Thailand
Authors: Watcharanat Prapada , Khuancheree Kitsarawut , Lee Brian
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

Diabetes belongs to the chronic disease group with an average high prevalence rate of 463 million worldwide. This research aims to investigate factors associated with self-care behavior among elderly patients with type 2 diabetes.

Methods:

The sample included 441 patients diagnosed with diabetes admitted to the Tambon Health Promoting Hospital in Nakhon Nayok Province. The sample size used in this study was calculated according to the sampling group of Yamane with a 95% confidence level. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics, correlation coefficients, and multiple regression analysis at the statistical significance level of 0.05.

Results:

The results showed that the average value of knowledge was 9.17 (SD=2.38), and the average values of attitude and social support behavior towards diabetes were 2.72 (SD=0.64) and 1.83 (SD=0.27), respectively. The results indicated that knowledge, attitude, and social support towards diabetes showed an average of a medium level. Moreover, the average value of self-care behavior towards diabetes was 30.52 (SD= 7.19). The results indicated that the knowledge about diabetes, attitude towards diabetes, and social support towards diabetes positively affected self-care behavior towards diabetes with the statistical significance of 0.05.

Conclusion:

Health promotion programs for patients with diabetes should be organized to promote knowledge and awareness on proper health behavior. In order to take care of themselves, diabetic patients must first get awareness regarding diabetes and then build skills for self-care. The results obtained in the study can help diabetic patients stay healthier, reduce the manifestation of both acute and chronic complications, and improve the quality of life of the elderly with diabetes.
Transmission and Transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2: What We Know and What We Not
Authors: Sami Hiba , Shahid Mohammad , Khan Parvez Anwar , Khan Haris M
Published: November 2021

Declared as a pandemic on March 11, 2020, COVID -19 has made it essential for the entire world to control and ensure safety measures for such infections in the future. To take any measures, one must be sure of the route of transmission of the agent causing Pandemic. With so many controversies in its mode of spread, COVID-19 has raised questions for the researchers to confirm its various modes of spread. Many of these modes can be overlooked; it is necessary to emphasize and illustrate them. The aim of this paper is to provide a brief overview of the various modes of COVID-19 transmission. According to the published literature, COVID-19 is primarily transmitted from person to person through oral and respiratory aerosols, with droplets from the virus-infected environment playing a minor role in disease transmission. The infection is particularly dangerous for healthcare workers and the elderly with comorbidities.
A Review Article on Vaccine Development and Therapeutics Approach Against SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Yadav Ankush , Singh Shubhangi , Srivastava Vivek , Bardhan Namrata , Gupta Saloni , Sarkar Paratpar , Kaur Harsimrut
Published: November 2021

In December 2019, a novel coronavirus (COVID-19) unleashed an unprecedented and unanticipated pandemic, causing widespread concern. More than three million deaths have been documented since the first incidence of COVID-19 discovered in China. Several arduous efforts have been made by the governments of various countries worldwide to prevent and control the SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review article discusses an update on all kinds of therapeutic interventions currently applied or developed to treat SARS-CoV-2 condition, including the repurposing of drugs such as Remdesivir, Favipiravir, Ivermectin, etc. We also discuss CRISPR’s potential involvement in antiviral therapy, convalescent plasma therapy, and immunomodulators in combination to tackle the cytokine storms and present a comprehensive overview on many vaccines that have been created to date or are under trials, as well as their platforms and efficacy. Moreover, this article also discusses the mechanism of action of every therapeutic intervention.
Nanotechnology-Based Weapons: A Potential Approach for COVID-19
Authors: Dilnawaz Fahima , Misra Ranjita , Acharya Sarbari
Published: November 2021

In the last few decades, viral infections have caused a greater number of health constraints worldwide. This havoc has created challenges for the healthcare system. Since the pandemic began, COVID-19 has killed more than 2.5 million people across the world. We are still witnessing deaths daily due to the deadly virus SARS-CoV-2 which is the causative agent for COVID-19. Thus, there is an increasing concern about finding an apt way to control the spread of this virus. Recently, the application of nanotechnology-based approaches has emerged as a ground-breaking step in the medical sector owing to their potential for accurate diagnosis and specific treatment in a wide range of health problems, including viral diseases. Therefore, the implementation of nanotechnology can be an articulate strategy to confront the rising distress of COVID-19. The present review particularly emphasizes the perception of several nanoformulation-based approaches as an appropriate means to safeguard mankind against COVID-19.
Bacterial Quorum- sensing Signal Molecules as Potential Inhibitors of Cytokine Storms in COVID-19
Authors: Sitaraman Ramakrishnan
Published: November 2021

In this perspective article, we suggest that bacterial quorum-sensing signal molecules (QSSMs) be systematically screened and evaluated for their ability to exert anti-inflammatory activity in the context of COVID-19-associated cytokine storms and other hyper-inflammatory conditions. Rapid and relevant in vitro screening of these and other compounds (natural or synthetic) can be accomplished by a careful choice of assay systems that are relevant to the disease context. Some lines of evidence indicating the utility of using such an approach, its potential benefits and risks during actual usage, as well as avenues for further research, are discussed.
Developing mathematics learning devices based on creative problem solving model in elementary school
Authors: Jusmawati Jusmawati , Satriawati Satriawati , Akhiruddin Akhiruddin , Rahman Abdul , Arsyad Nurdin , Irman R.
Published: November 2021

The aim of this study is to determine the characteristics of teaching materials with a valid, practical, and effective for Creative Problem Solving (CPS) model, to improve mathematics learning outcomes for elementary school students. The teaching materials developed were syllabus, lesson plan, student worksheets and modules. This research used Research & Development (R&D) with a Four-D development model consisting of 4 phases of development, namely: Define, Design, Develop and Disseminate. At the Define phase, the researcher conducts initial analysis, student analysis, concept analysis, performance/task analysis and analysis of the formulation of learning objectives. At the Design phase, the researcher arranges tests, selects formats, and designs the syllabus, lesson plans, worksheets, and modules based on creative problem solving. At the development phase, which consists of the assessment of experts with the results of the validation of teaching materials and the results of the validation of research instruments and the dissemination phase of the dissemination of research tools and results. The research instrument used the implementation of the model, student activities, teacher responses, students’ responses and learning outcomes.
Artificial intelligence in justice
Authors: Karmaza Oleksandra O. , Koroied Sergii O. , Makhinchuk Vitalii M. , Strilko Valentyna Yu. , Iosypenko Solomiia T.
Published: November 2021

The relevance of this study is condition upon the necessity of an in-depth investigation of the phenomenon of artificial intelligence, including its use in the judicial system of various legal states and its impact on the entire judicial system of the state. In this regard, the present paper aims to cover the main definitions of the concept of artificial intelligence, its origins, characteristics, grounds for application, as well as direct interaction and influence on the implementation of the main tasks of justice through the use and development of artificial intelligence in the judicial procedure. The leading method of this study is dialectical, although the authors also employ a combination of other different methods of scientific cognition. The dialectical method, which underlies the theoretical work and is directly listed as fundamental, allowed thoroughly analysing the nature of the concept of artificial intelligence, its key advantages and disadvantages, by analysing its use in the legal systems of the world's leading states. This paper investigates the emergence and transformation of artificial intelligence in modern technological and information relations, its gradual introduction in various spheres of life, namely the ways of implementation and the possibility of application in justice.
Stylistic analysis of sarcasm in some selected extracts of schoolteacher in Morrison’s beloved
Authors: Atu Rusul Abdel Kareem , Hussein Abbas Lutfi , Hussein Nadia Majeed
Published: November 2021

Sarcasm is a manipulative concept which can be utilized in different forms and different senses to express different intentions. Toni Morrison makes full use of linguistic and figurative tools to express her sarcastic events and situations. Thus, this paper investigates the stylistic use of sarcasm in some selected extracts of Schoolteacher in Morrison’s ‘Beloved’ , focusing on the purposes behind the use of sarcasm in this novel. Five extracts are selected to be stylistically analyzed in terms of Leech and Short’s (2007) model. The paper concludes that Morrison utilizes lexical, grammatical and figurative devices to depict the schoolteacher’s sarcastic views and events concerning slaving black people.
“Small Fires Causing Large Fires”: The rise of Boko Haram in Northeastern Nigeria and its Transnational Posture in the Lake Chad Basin
Authors: Adela Gershon
Published: November 2021

The Islamist group, Jama’atul Alhul Sunnah Lidda’wati wal Jihad, translated as “people committed to the propagation of the Prophet’s teachings and jihad”, is commonly known as Boko Haram, which means “Western education is forbidden.” It originated in Nigeria’s northeastern state of Borno in 2002, but its violence extends into neighboring Cameroon, Chad, and Niger in the Lake Chad Basin. This article provides an overview of the factors that led to the emergence of Boko Haram, its resort to violence, and rapid expansion in the Lake Chad Basin. The article argues that the Boko Haram insurgency is the result of the combination of overlapping and self-complementing factors. The similarity of these factors across Nigeria’s neighboring countries in the Lake Chad Basin has led to the rapid escalation of Boko Haram’s conflict.
Concept of Soft Violence in Critical Security Studies
Authors: Kelshall Candyce , Archutowski Natalie
Published: November 2021

On September 16, 2021, Professor Candyce Kelshall and Ms. Natalie Archutowski presented on the Concept of Soft Violence in Critical Security Studies at the 2021 CASIS Vancouver Defence and Security Advisory Network online forum. Primary topics included: evaluating violence as soft in nature, how and where soft violence might fit in the realm of critical security studies, violent transnational social movements (VTSMs), sharp power, and soft power.
BIOGLASSERAMICS IN THE SURGERY OF TUBERCULOSIS OF BONES AND JOINTS
Authors: Kaftyrev A. , Serdobintsev M. , Linnik S. , Markovichenko R.
Published: November 2021

The experiment had proved compatibility of biosytall and bone tissue in the conditions of tuberculous inflammation. Clinical researches show the positive effect of usage of biosytall in combination with native bone in the radical surgery in case of tuberculosis of bones and joints, which consisted in surgery time saving, reduction of operational and postoperational bleeding, with the same amount of positive results in the screening group.
SOME TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES AND WAYS OF THEIR OVERCOMING DURING VERTEBROPLASTY DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Astapenkov D. S.
Published: November 2021

Vertebroplasty was performed in 8 women in the age of from 43 till 80 years. The indication to intervention in one case was metastatic involvement, in four cases - osteoporotic vertebral fractures; to three patients vertebroplasty was performed in occasion of vertebral body gemangioma. The results of this study revealed, that for increase of safety the authors recommend to carry out the vertebroplasty under local anesthesia at presence of an anesthesiologist for possible additional intravenous anesthesia. The safest from the point of view of extravertebral distributions of cement is transpedicular access; flebospondylography does not allow predicting reliably distribution of cement in view of significant distinction of physical and chemical properties of entered substances however can be used for a tentative estimation of venous outflow at tumor process in vertebral bodies.
MANAGEMENT OF ATYPICAL CLUBFOOT BY PONSETI METHOD
Authors: Blandinsky V. F. , Vavilov M. A. , Torno T. E. , Donskoy A. V.
Published: November 2021

From May 2006 to August 2009 analyzed 28 clinical observations (34 feet) for children aged from 7 days to 1.5 years with severe atypical congenital clubfoot (Pirani 5,6 points), treated by the method of I. Ponseti. The average number of gypsum one foot to the full correction was - 6.3. It was written 38 achillotomy. Dates from the beginning of gypsum to achillotomy averaged - 34 days. All of the children undergoing treatment with us after the removal of plaster, dressed brace, fixing the foot fixed in position 45° abduction and 15° of flexion of the back and encouraged them to carry up to 3-4 years. All the children in this group achieved a complete correction of foot deformities without performing tenoligamentocapsulotomy. Results of treatment were evaluated according to the classification C. Pirani. Average score was 1.1 points. Follow-up was an average of 1 year 35 days.
REHABILITATION OF CHILDREN WITH CICATRICIAL CONSEQUENCES OF BURNS: FEATURES, ERRORS, POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS
Authors: Aphonichev K. A. , Philippova O. V. , Baindurashvili A. G. , Buklaev D. S.
Published: November 2021

Late results of treatment of thermal injury and its sequelae are presented. According the data obtained, the most severe deformities developing after a thermal injury are the flexion contractures of fingers. The results of the study are evidence of a cardinal importance of an appropriate immobilization of the affected segments and of early functional rehabilitation for prevention of contractures development. Without dynamic keeping the children under observation, secondary skeletal deformities develop which are changes in form of bones and their hypoplasia. This enhances the number and volume of reconstructive procedures needed as well as deteriorates the final outcome of the treatment.
BONE-CUTTING METHOD OF ANKLE ARTHRODESIS
Authors: Fedorov V. G.
Published: November 2021

The experience of bone plasty by cylindrical auto-transplants in patients with posttraumatic ankle diseases are describes. Effectiveness of developed method was demonstrated by successful use in patients with deforming arthritis and fibrous alkalosis of ankle.
SURGICAL TREATMENT OF VERTEBRAL FRACTURES ASSOCIATED WITH LOW MINERAL BONE DENSITY
Authors: Rerikh V. V. , Sadovoy M. A. , Rakhmatillaev Sh. N. , Borzykh K. Q.
Published: November 2021

Surgical treatment of 177 patients with monolocal fractures of thoracic and lumbar vertebral bodies was performed using transpedicular fixation (n=17), transpedicular fixation and osteoplasty (n=101), vertebroplasty (n=48) or kyphoplasty (n=ll). Restoration of support ability of the fractured osteoporotic vertebrae within ventral column by means of plasty particularly in combination with internal fixation allows achievement of better clinical outcomes, improvement of the quality of life in patients in the early and late periods after surgery.
VENTRAL SPONDYLODESIS BYTITAN IMPLANTS AT SPINE TUMORS
Authors: Babkin A. V.
Published: November 2021

At RSPC of traumatology and orthopaedic surgery and Institute of powders metallurgic porous implants are working out which allow complitely replace alio- and autotranplants and improve the surgical technology of interbody spondylodesis. Porous implants, made from mechanic durabilities, are bioinert or biocompatible materials, provide durabilities prime spondylodesis. It doesn't need an additional fixation, realize a possibility to grow a bone matter in powder structure of implants.
THORACOSCOPIC SURGERY FOR SPINE AND PARASPINAL NEUROGENIC TUMORS
Authors: Gushcha A. O. , Arestov S. O.
Published: November 2021

There is our experience of thoracoscopic surgery treatment of primary and metastatic spine tumors and paraspinal neurogenic tumors including "dumbbell". Thoracoscopic approach impressively decreases of complication rate in comparison with open surgery and considerably increase quality of life. Activization time for the patient with thoracoscopic surgery was 5,36+3,34 (for neurogenic paravertebral tumors 3,40+2,31). Comparison endoscopic and microsurgical methods demonstrate advantages of endoscopic technologies. Further development of neuroendoscopy in spinal surgery makes possible to increase effectiveness of treatment of various spine pathology. We conclude that neuroendoscopy is new and effective method of treatment not only degenerative diseases but is really effective technology of tumor resection both extra and intramedullar.
THE USE OF THE PROXIMAL FEMORAL NAIL IN THE TREATMENT OF PROXIMAL FEMUR FRACTURES IN THE OLD PATIENTS
Authors: Borovkov V. N. , Khrupalov A. A. , Sorokin G. V.
Published: November 2021

The analysis of results of surgical treatment of 157 patients with proximal femur fractures was presented. In all cases the osteosynthesis using fixator PFN was performed in clinic of traumatology amd orthopedics of Moscow Municipal Hospital N 71 from 2005 till 2009. The authors concluded: proximal femur nail is mini-invasive and mini-traumatic fixator that is essential at treatment of elderly and old patients.
THE SURGICAL TREATMENT OF CHILDREN WITH COMPLICATED FRACTURES OF THORACIC AND LUMBAR VERTEBRAE
Authors: Vissarionov S. V. , Bel'anchikov S. M.
Published: November 2021

The analysis of surgical treatment of 31 patients aged 3 to 17 years with complicated fractures of the vertebrae in the thoracic and lumbar localization was carried out. If damage type A3 with neurological manifestations of type Д В, С at one time served a two-stage decompression-stabilization operation. Surgical treatment of fractures of type В and С consisted in remove all types of dislocation of vertebrae, stabilize the physiologically correct position of the injured segment after the decompression and revision spinal canal. Early surgery in acute phase can eliminate the vertebro-medullar conflict, to stabilize the vertebral-motor segment, restore support ability of injured vertebra (or vertebrae), to recreate the normal anatomy of the spinal canal.
EVALUATION OF EFFECTIVENESS OF PERCUTANEOUS VERTEBROPLASTY IN COMPLEX TREATMENT OF OSTEOPOROSIS WITH PATHOLOGICAL VERTEBRAL FRACTURES
Authors: Astapenkov D. S.
Published: November 2021

The effectiveness of vertebroplasty in treatment of 84 patients with osteoporosis and pathological fractures of the vertebrae was evaluated. 68 patients of the first group were underwent a comprehensive conservative treatment, percutaneous vertebroplasty was performed additionally in 16 patients in second group. The study found that in the second group treatment results were slightly better: the investigated parameters showed a significant dynamics, ie, vertebroplasty improved the results of treatment of osteoporotic patients with pathological fractures of the vertebrae.
SURGICAL RECONSTRUCTION OF THE FINGERS WITH THE USE OF CONVENTIONAL AND MICROSURGICAL TECHNIQUES
Authors: Alexandrov N. M. , Petrov S. V.
Published: November 2021

The authors presents a new method of hand and finger reconstruction, which makes it possible to restore finger surface and bony frame by transfer of vascularized osteo-cutaneous grafts on microvessel anastomoses and transposition of the radial flap on peripheral pedicle. Lipocutaneous flaps on temporary pedicles provide coverage for the most part of the reconstructed digit as well as for the present hand defects. Complete acceptance of segments was achieved in 92,8% of cases. In all the cases of successful segment acceptance bony frame stability in the reconstructed digits and restoration of the bilateral hand grip were achieved.
VARIANTS OF SPINE OSTEOSYNTESIS AT LOW MINERAL DENSITY OF BONE
Authors: Usikov V. D. , Ptashnikov D. A. , Dokish M. Yu.
Published: November 2021

The analysis of the results of transpedicular screw fixation in the treatment of patients with osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures was done. In the first group (N=27) the polysegmental transpedicular screw fixation was applied. In the second group (N=20) we used short-level stabilization with additional augmentation of transpedicular screws by bone cement. The spinal stability, restoration of function, correction of spine's deformation and pain relief was same in both groups. But in the second group the results was achieved with less traumatization and time of rehabilitation of the patients.
How Identification With the Social Environment and With the Government Guide the Use of the Official COVID-19 Contact Tracing App: Three Quantitative Survey Studies (Preprint)
Authors: Scholl Annika , Sassenberg Kai
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

Official contact tracing apps have been implemented and recommended for use across nations to track and contain the spread of COVID-19. Such apps can be effective if people are willing to use them. Accordingly, many attempts are being made to motivate citizens to make use of the officially recommended apps.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this research was to contribute to an understanding of the preconditions under which people are willing to use a COVID-19 contact tracing app (ie, their use intentions and use). To go beyond personal motives in favor of app use, it is important to take people’s social relationships into account, under the hypothesis that the more people identify with the beneficiaries of app use (ie, people living close by in their social environment) and with the source recommending the app (ie, members of the government), the more likely they will be to accept the officially recommended contact tracing app.

METHODS

Before, right after, and 5 months after the official contact tracing app was launched in Germany, a total of 1044 people participated in three separate surveys. Structural equation modeling was used to test the hypotheses, examining the same model in all studies at these critical points in time.

RESULTS

Across the three surveys, both identification with the beneficiaries (people living in their social environment) and with the source recommending the app (members of the government) predicted greater intention to use and use (installation) of the official contact tracing app. Trust in the source (members of the government) served as a mediator. Other types of identification (with people in Germany or people around the world) did not explain the observed results. The findings were highly consistent across the three surveys.

CONCLUSIONS

Attempts to motivate people to use new health technology (or potentially new measures more generally) not only for their personal benefit but also for collective benefits should take the social context into account (ie, the social groups people belong to and identify with). The more important the beneficiaries and the sources of such measures are to people’s sense of the self, the more willing they will likely be to adhere to and support such measures.
Comparison of (Cost-)Effectiveness of Magnetic Resonance Image–Guided High-Intensity–Focused Ultrasound With Standard (Minimally) Invasive Fibroid Treatments: Protocol for a Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial (MYCHOICE) (Preprint)
Authors: Anneveldt Kimberley J , Nijholt Ingrid M , Schutte Joke M , Dijkstra Jeroen R , Frederix Geert W J , Ista Erwin , Verpalen Inez M , Veersema Sebastiaan , Huirne Judith A F , Hehenkamp Wouter J K , Boomsma Martijn F
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

Magnetic resonance image–guided high-intensity–focused ultrasound (MR-HIFU) is a rather new, noninvasive option for the treatment of uterine fibroids. It is safe, effective, and has a very short recovery time. However, a lack of prospectively collected data on long-term (cost-)effectiveness of the MR-HIFU treatment compared with standard uterine fibroid care prevents the MR-HIFU treatment from being reimbursed for this indication. Therefore, at this point, when conservative treatment for uterine fibroid symptoms has failed or is not accepted by patients, standard care includes the more invasive treatments hysterectomy, myomectomy, and uterine artery embolization (UAE). Primary outcomes of currently available data on MR-HIFU treatment often consist of technical outcomes, instead of patient-centered outcomes such as quality of life (QoL), and do not include the use of the latest equipment or most up-to-date treatment strategies. Moreover, data on cost-effectiveness are rare and seldom include data on a societal level such as productivity loss or use of painkillers. Because of the lack of reimbursement, broad clinical implementation has not taken place, nor is the proper role of MR-HIFU in uterine fibroid care sufficiently clear.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of our study is to determine the long-term (cost-)effectiveness of MR-HIFU compared with standard (minimally) invasive fibroid treatments.

METHODS

The MYCHOICE study is a national, multicenter, open randomized controlled trial with randomization in a 2:1 ratio to MR-HIFU or standard care including hysterectomy, myomectomy, and UAE. The sample size is 240 patients in total. Women are included when they are 18 years or older, in premenopausal stage, diagnosed with symptomatic uterine fibroids, conservative treatment has failed or is not accepted, and eligible for MR-HIFU. Primary outcomes of the study are QoL 24 months after treatment and costs of treatment including direct health care costs, loss of productivity, and patient costs.

RESULTS

Inclusion for the MYCHOICE study started in November 2020 and enrollment will continue until 2024. Data collection is expected to be completed in 2026.

CONCLUSIONS

By collecting data on the long-term (cost-)effectiveness of the MR-HIFU treatment in comparison to current standard fibroid care, we provide currently unavailable evidence about the proper place of MR-HIFU in the fibroid treatment spectrum. This will also facilitate reimbursement and inclusion of MR-HIFU in (inter)national uterine fibroid care guidelines.

CLINICALTRIAL

Netherlands Trial Register NL8863; https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/8863

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/29467
Using a chatbot to reduce emergency department visits and unscheduled hospitalizations among patients with gynecologic malignancies during chemotherapy: a retrospective cohort study (Preprint)
Authors: Huang Ming-Yuan , Weng Chia-Sui , Kuo Hsiao-Li , Su Yung-Cheng
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

A chatbot is an automatic text-messaging tool that creates a dynamic interaction and simulates a human conversation through text or voice via smartphones or computers. A chatbot could be an effective solution for cancer patients’ follow-up during treatment, and could save time for healthcare providers.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a retrospective cohort study to evaluate whether a chatbot-based collection of patient-reported symptoms during chemotherapy, with automated alerts to clinicians, could decrease emergency department (ED) visits and hospitalizations. A control group received usual care.

METHODS

Self-reporting symptoms were communicated via the chatbot, a Facebook Messenger-based interface for patients with gynecologic malignancies. The chatbot included questions about common symptoms experienced during chemotherapy. Patients could also use the text-messaging feature to speak directly to the chatbot, and all reported outcomes were monitored by a cancer manager. The primary and secondary outcomes of the study were emergency department visits and unscheduled hospitalizations after initiation of chemotherapy after diagnosis of gynecologic malignancies. Multivariate Poisson regression models were applied to assess the adjusted incidence rate ratios (aIRRs) for chatbot use for ED visits and unscheduled hospitalizations after controlling for age, cancer stage, type of malignancy, diabetes, hypertension, chronic renal insufficiency, and coronary heart disease.

RESULTS

Twenty patients were included in the chatbot group, and 43 in the usual-care group. Significantly lower aIRRs for chatbot use for ED visits (0.27; 95% CI 0.11–0.65; p=0.003) and unscheduled hospitalizations (0.31; 95% CI 0.11–0.88; p=0.028) were noted. Patients using the chatbot approach had lower aIRRs of ED visits and unscheduled hospitalizations compared to usual-care patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The chatbot was helpful for reducing ED visits and unscheduled hospitalizations in patients with gynecologic malignancies who were receiving chemotherapy. These findings are valuable for inspiring the future design of digital health interventions for cancer patients.
Peer Review of “Machine Learning and Medication Adherence: Scoping Review” (Preprint)
Authors: Kwan Yu Heng
Published: November 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

This is a peer review report for ms#26993.
Rhinitis sicca anterior in children: epidemiology and treatment with sesame seed oil nasal spray
Authors: Yurochko Fedyr , Kopanska Dzwenyslava
Published: November 2021

Excessive dryness in the nose is very common among the population. The diagnosis of rhinitis sicca anterior is established quite often. Therefore, such patients need multicomponent treatment, taking into account all possible factors. The objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of sesame seed oil nasal spray (Sezorin manufactured by JSC “Farmak”) in rhinitis sicca anterior among children. As a result of using this drug, we achieved a fairly rapid and sustained reduction in clinical symptoms in our patients, and it is important to note that the effect of treatment with Sezorin spray was long-lasting.