bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
18F-FDG PET/CT versus bone marrow biopsy in detecting bone marrow infiltration in initial staging of pediatric lymphoma
Authors: Bashank Nahla , Sharef Seham , Mohran Taha Zaki , Khalil Maha
Published: April 2024

Background

To evaluate the efficacy of PET/CT using18F-FDG (18F-fluorodeoxyglucose) as a radiotracer compared to conventional bone marrow biopsy (BMB) in detecting infiltration to bone marrow (BM) in pediatric patients with lymphoma at the time of initial diagnosis.

Methods

66 pediatric patients with lymphoma (47Hodgkin’s and 19non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma) were referred for initial staging by18F-FDG PET/CT study. All patients underwent bilateral iliac BMB and 18F-FDG PET/CT scan with no more than 2 weeks interval in-between. Follow-up for at least 6 months was used as a reference standard to compare diagnostic performance between two modalities in detecting bone marrow infiltration (BMI).

Results

Sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, as well as positive and negative predictive values of 18F-FDG PET/CT in detecting BMI were (80%, 86%, 85%, 63%, and 94%) in contrast to BMB (80%, 53%, 59%, 33%, and 90%) respectively. 18F-FDG PET/CT was concordant to BMB in 39/66 patients (59%).

Conclusion

18F-FDG PET/CT was more accurate and specific, with higher predictive values than BMB in detecting BMI during initial staging of pediatric lymphoma. In most pediatric lymphoma patients, 18F-FDG PET/CT can be used instead of BMB to determine BMI during their initial staging process.
Surgically repaired tetralogy of Fallot in the 7th decade: a late presentation of severe pulmonic regurgitation
Authors: Varkoly Kyle , Parekh Akarsh , Ianitelli Melissa , Hamada Mostafa , Lucas Alexandra , Forbes Thomas
Published: April 2024

Background

Surgically repaired tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is a congenital heart disease with a cumulative survival rate of 72% in the 4th decade of life in longitudinal single-cohort studies. Debate surrounds conservative versus surgical management in adults with TOF once pulmonary regurgitation occurs.

Case presentation

A 73-year-old male with surgically corrected TOF presented with heart failure symptoms. He underwent ToF repair with a classic right Blalock–Taussig shunt at 2 years of age with transannular patching at 18 years of age. Echocardiography revealed elevated right ventricular systolic pressures, severe right ventricular dilatation, and pulmonary regurgitation. Our patient’s new-onset right-sided heart failure was managed medically with diuresis. He received a new pulmonic valve via percutaneous approach on a later planned hospitalization with resolution of symptoms and improved tricuspid regurgitation.

Conclusion

It is a class I recommendation for pulmonic valve intervention once greater than moderate PR occurs; however, medical optimization should take place first. Following adequate RV load optimization, our patient underwent successful transcatheter pulmonic valve implantation with resolution of symptoms and cessation of diuretic.
Cost–utility analysis of using high-intensity statin among post-hospitalized acute coronary syndrome patients
Authors: Dewi Pramitha Esha Nirmala , Thavorncharoensap Montarat , Rahajeng Bangunawati
Published: April 2024

Background

Post-hospitalized acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients in Indonesia National Insurance does not pay for the use of high-intensity statin (HIS) for secondary prevention after ACS hospitalization. Moreover, a cost–utility analysis needs to be conducted to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of prescribing HIS and low-to-moderate-intensity statin (LMIS) per quality-adjusted life year (QALY). This study aimed to estimate the cost–utility of long-term HIS treatment in post-hospitalized ACS patients in Indonesia compared to current practice.

Results

This study compared the economic outcomes of long-term HIS and LMIS in Indonesian post-hospitalized ACS patients. A lifetime Markov model predicted ACS-related events, costs, and QALY from a payer perspective. A systematic review estimated treatment-specific event probabilities, post-event survival, health-related quality of life, and Indonesia medical-care expenses from published sources. This study conducted probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) using 1000 independent Monte Carlo simulations and a series of one-way deterministic sensitivity analyses utilizing a tornado diagram. The economic evaluation model proved that intensive HIS treatment can increase per-patient QALYs and care expenditures compared to LMIS. The use of HIS among post-hospitalized ACS patients had ICER 31.843.492 IDR per QALY gained, below the Indonesia willingness-to-pay (WTP) for terminal disease and life-saving treatment.

Conclusion

From the Indonesia payer perspective, using HIS for post-hospitalized ACS patients in Indonesia is cost-effective at 31.843.492 IDR per QALY gained.
Portable optical spectroscopy and machine learning techniques for quantification of the biochemical content of raw food materials
Authors: Ricci Cosimo , Gadaleta Agata , Gerardino Annamaria , Didonna Angelo , Ferrara Giuseppe , Bertani Francesca Romana
Published: April 2024

Background

Accuracy in determining food authenticity, possible contamination, content analysis, and even geographical origin is of considerable scientific and economic value. The aim of this study is to facilitate quantitative evaluation of protein content in the seeds of cereals (
Triticum turgidum
var. durum and
Tritordeum
genotypes) and ripening pomegranate fruits (Wonderful cultivar).

Methods

Two species of wheat were evaluated in this study: durum wheat,
Triticum turgidum
var.
durum
, and
Tritordeum (
durum wheat × wild barley
)
together with pomegranate fruits of the variety Wonderful. Two different portable Near InfraRed (NIR) spectrometers have been used: a prototype developed in the PhasmaFood project and the commercial SCiO™ molecular sensor.

Results

Considering the specific samples, the obtained results of the classification models indicate a validation mean absolute error of 0.8% (percentage of total protein content in dry matter) for two species of wheat using Convolutional Neural Network following normalization procedures and 0.32% using Partial Least Square (PLS) analysis applied to
Tritordeum
samples; visible reflectance spectra have been used to discriminate the two cereal species. A Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 1.25 was obtained for the determination of total soluble solids (TSS) over a 2-year period for pomegranate fresh fruits of Wonderful cultivar, which is commonly harvested with TSS values of 16–17.

Conclusions

The application of portable sensors using NIR spectroscopy can be a valid and rapid alternative to the use of destructive laboratory techniques for the assessment of protein content in intact wheat seeds and ripeness grade (TSS) in intact pomegranates.
Laxative use in adults with intellectual disabilities: development of prescribing guidelines
Authors: Bishop Ruth , Laugharne Richard , Burrows Lisa ,   CHAMPS Team, Ward Sandra , Eustice Sharon , Branford David , Wilcock Mike , Lamb Kirsten , Tavare Alison , Annesley Charlotte , Lewis Stephen , Voulgaropoulos Vasileios , Sleeman Faye , Sargent Beth , Shankar Rohit
Published: April 2024

Background

Constipation is overrepresented in people with intellectual disabilities. Around 40% of people with intellectual disabilities who died prematurely were prescribed laxatives. A quarter of people with intellectual disabilities are said to be on laxatives. There are concerns that prescribing is not always effective and appropriate. There are currently no prescribing guidelines specific to this population.

Aims

To develop guidelines to support clinicians with their decision-making when prescribing laxatives to people with intellectual disabilities.

Method

A modified Delphi methodology, the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method, was used. Step 1 comprised development of a bespoke six-item, open-ended questionnaire from background literature and its external validation. Relevant stakeholders, including a range of clinical experts and experts by experience covering the full range of intellectual disability and constipation, were invited to participate in an expert panel. Panel members completed the questionnaire. Responses were divided into ‘negative consensus’ and ‘positive consensus’. Members were then invited to two panel meetings, 2 weeks apart, held virtually over Microsoft Teams, to build consensus. The expert-by-experience group were included in a separate face-to-face meeting.

Results

A total of 20 people (ten professional experts and ten experts by experience, of whom seven had intellectual disability) took part. There were five main areas of discussion to reach a consensus i.e. importance of diagnosis, the role of prescribing, practicalities of medication administration, importance of reviewing and monitoring, and communication.

Conclusions

Laxative prescribing guidelines were developed by synthesising the knowledge of an expert panel including people with intellectual disabilities with the existing evidence base, to improve patient care.
The Influence of Surgical Complexity and Center Experience on Postoperative Morbidity After Minimally Invasive Surgery in Gynecologic Oncology: Lessons Learned from the ROBOGYN-1004 Trial
Authors: Lambaudie Eric , Bogart Emilie , Le Deley Marie-Cécile , EL Hajj Houssein , Gauthier Tristan , Hebert Thomas , Collinet Pierre , Classe Jean Marc , Lecuru Fabrice , Motton Stephanie , Conri Vanessa , Ferrer Catherine , Marchal Frederic , Ferron Gwenael , Probst Alicia , Jauffret Camille , Narducci Fabrice
Published: April 2024

Background

This study was a secondary analysis of the ROBOGYN-1004 trial conducted between 2010 and 2015. The study aimed to identify factors that affect postoperative morbidity after either robot-assisted laparoscopy (RL) or conventional laparoscopy (CL) in gynecologic oncology.

Methods

The study used two-level logistic regression analyses to evaluate the prognostic and predictive value of patient, surgery, and center characteristics in predicting severe postoperative morbidity 6 months after surgery.

Results

This analysis included 368 patients. Severe morbidity occurred in 49 (28 %) of 176 patients who underwent RL versus 41 (21 %) of 192 patients who underwent CL (p = 0.15). In the multivariate analysis, after adjustment for the treatment group (RL vs CL), the risk of severe morbidity increased significantly for patients who had poorer performance status, with an odds ratio (OR) of 1.62 for the 1-point difference in the WHO performance score (95 % CI 1.06–2.47; p = 0.027) and according to the type of surgery (p < 0.001). A focus on complex surgical acts showed significant more morbidity in the RL group than in the CL group at the less experienced centers (OR, 3.31; 95 % CI 1.0–11; p = 0.05) compared with no impact at the experienced centers (OR, 0.87; 95 % CI 0.38–1.99; p = 0.75).

Conclusion

The findings suggest that the center’s experience may have an impact on the risk of morbidity for patients undergoing complex robot-assisted surgical procedures.
The impact of perceived social support and social self-efficacy on resilience ‎among single mothers
Authors: Shawaqfeh Baha'
Published: April 2024

Background In Jordan, the number of single mothers is rising, constituting a distinct and neglected population sector. Single women encounter several obstacles as primary carers for their children. Since it is a complicated experience that may affect woman's resilience, influenced by social self-efficacy (SSE) and perceived social support (PSS), this study aims to determine how SSE and PSS influence resilience among single mothers. Methods This research employs a quantitative method. A volunteer group of 534 women in Jordan selected. Three scales were developed to meet the study objectives: PSS, SSE, and resilience. Results The study results indicate that PSS and SSE have a bearing on the resilience of single mothers, that there are no differences in PSS and resilience levels by social status, and that there is a difference in SSE levels by social class, favoring widows. Conclusions The PSS and SSE influence the resiliency of single women, which offers us the key to assisting them in reintegrating with the community following a family break. These women are also impacted by psychological and physical stress.
Enfoques diferenciales: desde una justicia constitucional y convencional
Authors: Niño Patiño Natali
Published: April 2024

El presente trabajo tiene como propósito principal establecer los elementos que permitan contribuir a la discusión sobre la conceptualización del enfoque diferencial, el cual se encuentra construido bajo modelos contemporáneos de justicia. Estos principalmente tienen que ver con la necesidad de buscar formas de reconocimiento que permitan la consolidación de las expectativas de vida de las personas en la sociedad. Con ello, el enfoque diferencial crea un vínculo inquebrantable entre justicia y derecho a través de la justicia constitucional y convencional para generar con ella espacios de transformación a poblaciones que sistemáticamente se encuentran ante graves violaciones de derechos humanos. A partir de lo anterior se busca establecer, desde la jurisprudencia constitucional y convencional, los elementos que son claves para desarrollar decisiones en clave de derechos humanos con base en los enfoques diferenciales.
Optical skyrmions in the Bessel profile
Authors: Srinivasa Rao A.
Published: April 2024

Optical skyrmions formed in terms of polarization are topological quasi-particles, and they have garnered much interest in the optical community owing to their unique inhomogeneous polarization structure and simplicity in their experimental realization. These structures belong to the Poincaré beams satisfying the stable topology. We theoretically investigated the non-diffracting and self-healing Poincaré beams based on the superposition of two orthogonal Bessel modes by the longitudinal mode matching technique. These Poincaré beams are topologically protected, and we suggest them as optical skyrmions in the corresponding Stokes vector fields. These optical skyrmions are quasi-skyrmions, and their range of propagation depends on the range of superposed Bessel modes. We have shown longitudinal mode matching of superposed Bessel beams is a necessary condition for the generation of propagation-invariant and non-diffracting skyrmions. The proposed longitudinal mode matching technique facilitates the generation of skyrmions with tunable position and range without any on-axis intensity modulations along the propagation axis. A suitable experimental configuration is suggested to realize variable order skyrmions in Bessel modes. The suggested experimental configuration can produce optical skyrmions even in ultra-short laser pulses with high mode conversion efficacy. This work can provide a new direction for the generation of skyrmions with completely new textures and features with reference to existing skyrmions originating from Laguerre-Gaussian modes.
Prevalence of hepatitis B virus infection and its associated factors among students in N’Djamena, Chad
Authors: Debsikréo Nalda , Mankréo Birwé Léon , Moukénet Azoukalné , Ouangkake Merwa , Mara Nathan , Moussa Ali Mahamat , Toure-Kane Ndèye Coumba , Lunel-Fabiani Françoise
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Infection by hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major issue in public health. The prevalence of HBV in Chad is 12.4%, all age groups considered. Here, we aimed to determine the prevalence of HBV and its associated factors among university students in N’Djamena, the country’s capital.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of students at either the University of N’djamena or Emi Koussi University was conducted from 3 to 23 July 2021. All participating students provided signed, informed consent and were included in the study consecutively. Blood samples were collected, and serum tested for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) using the Determine HBsAg rapid test kit, with confirmation of positive tests on an Abbott Architect i1000SR analyzer. Descriptive analysis and logistic regression were used to determine associations between the outcome variable and independent/covariate variables.

Results

A total of 457 students with a median age of 24 years were included across different faculties. The prevalence of HBV infection was 14.87% (68/457). Most students (75%) were aged 25 years or less. Unprotected sex was reported by 64.9% of the students and multiple sexual partners by 53.6%. Furthermore, 45.7% of them reported having no knowledge of hepatitis B. Having an HBsAg-positive mother (AOR: 2.11), having a history of transcutaneous medical procedures (AOR: 2.97) and living with a family (AOR: 4.63) were significantly associated with HBV status. Age ≥26 years appeared as a protective factor (AOR = 0.41).

Conclusion

Our study detected a high, 14.87% prevalence of HBV infection among students in N’djamena, Chad, and shed light on its associated factors. HBV prevention strategies should include raising awareness among students, making full hepatitis vaccination mandatory before children begin school, promoting mass screening to identify and treat chronic HBV carriers and reduce transmission, and reducing the cost of vaccination.
Integration of single-cell RNA-seq and bulk RNA-seq to construct liver hepatocellular carcinoma stem cell signatures to explore their impact on patient prognosis and treatment
Authors: Liu Lixia , Zhang Meng , Cui Naipeng , Liu Wenwen , Di Guixin , Wang Yanan , Xi Xin , Li Hao , Shen Zhou , Gu Miaomiao , Wang Zichao , Jiang Shan , Liu Bin
Published: April 2024

Background

Liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) is a prevalent form of primary liver cancer. Research has demonstrated the contribution of tumor stem cells in facilitating tumor recurrence, metastasis, and treatment resistance. Despite this, there remains a lack of established cancer stem cells (CSCs)-associated genes signatures for effectively predicting the prognosis and guiding the treatment strategies for patients diagnosed with LIHC.

Methods

The single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and bulk RNA transcriptome data were obtained based on public datasets and computerized firstly using CytoTRACE package and One Class Linear Regression (OCLR) algorithm to evaluate stemness level, respectively. Then, we explored the association of stemness indicators (CytoTRACE score and stemness index, mRNAsi) with survival outcomes and clinical characteristics by combining clinical information and survival analyses. Subsequently, weighted co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and Cox were applied to assess mRNAsi-related genes in bulk LIHC data and construct a prognostic model for LIHC patients. Single-sample gene-set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA), Cell-type Identification By Estimating Relative Subsets Of RNA Transcripts (CIBERSORT) and Tumor Immune Estimation Resource (TIMER) analysis were employed for immune infiltration assessment. Finally, the potential immunotherapeutic response was predicted by the Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion (TIDE), and the tumor mutation burden (TMB). Additionally, pRRophetic package was applied to evaluate the sensitivity of high and low-risk groups to common chemotherapeutic drugs.

Results

A total of four genes (including STIP1, H2AFZ, BRIX1, and TUBB) associated with stemness score (CytoTRACE score and mRNAsi) were identified and constructed a risk model that could predict prognosis in LIHC patients. It was observed that high stemness cells occurred predominantly in the late stages of LIHC and that poor overall survival in LIHC patients was also associated with high mRNAsi scores. In addition, pathway analysis confirmed the biological uniqueness of the two risk groups. Personalized treatment predictions suggest that patients with a low risk benefited more from immunotherapy, while those with a high risk group may be conducive to chemotherapeutic drugs.

Conclusion

The current study developed a novel prognostic risk signature with genes related to CSCs, which provides novel ideas for the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of LIHC.
Risk factors of reattempt among suicide attempters in South Korea: A nationwide retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kim Min Ji , Yang Jeong Hun , Koh Min Jung , Kim Youngdoe , Lee Bolam , Ahn Yong Min
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to identify underlying demographic and clinical characteristics among individuals who had previously attempted suicide, utilizing the comprehensive Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service (HIRA) database. Data of patients aged 18 and above who had attempted suicide between January 1 and December 31, 2014, recorded in HIRA, were extracted. The index date was identified when a suicide attempt was made within the year 2014. The medical history of the three years before the index date and seven years of follow-up data after the index date were analyzed. Kaplan-Meier estimate was used to infer reattempt of the suicide attempters, and Cox-proportional hazard analysis was used to investigate risk factors associated with suicide reattempts. A total of 17,026 suicide attempters were identified, of which 1,853 (10.9%) reattempted suicide; 4,925 (28.9%) patients had been diagnosed with depressive disorder. Of the reattempters, 391 (21.1%) demonstrated a history of suicide attempts in the three years before the index date, and the mean number of prior attempts was higher compared to that of the non-reattempters (1.7 vs.1.3, p-value < 0.01). Prior psychiatric medication, polypharmacy, and an increase in the number of psychotropics were associated with suicide reattempt in overall suicide attempters. (Hazard ratio (HR) = 3.20, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.56–4.00; HR = 2.42, 95% CI = 1.87–3.14; HR = 19.66, 95% CI = 15.22–25.39 respectively). The risk of reattempt decreased in individuals receiving antidepressant prescriptions compared to those unmedicated, showing a reduction of 78% when prescribed by non-psychiatrists and 89% when prescribed by psychiatrists. Similar risk factors for suicide reattempts were observed in the depressive disorder subgroup, but the median time to reattempt was shorter (556.5 days) for this group compared to that for the overall attempters (578 days). Various risk factors including demographics, clinical characteristics, and medications should be considered to prevent suicide reattempts among suicide attempters, and patients with depressive disorder should be monitored more closely.
An assessment of nurses’ perceived and actual household emergency preparedness
Authors: Brown Gavin David , McMullan Caroline , Largey Ann , Leon David
Published: April 2024

Nurses’ household preparedness is critical if they are to avoid role conflict and report for duty during an emergency. To date, the alignment between nurses’ perceived and actual household preparedness remains under examined. Investigating one of these variables in isolation fails to consider that perceived and actual household preparedness must be high and aligned. If misaligned, vulnerabilities could surface during emergencies, like concerns about family safety, potentially impacting a nurse’s commitment to duty during a crisis, or nurses may lack the actual preparedness to continue working long hours during an emergency. An online questionnaire was distributed to registered nurses in Ireland. The questionnaire was informed by a review of the literature and captured nurses’ perceived and actual household preparedness, attitudes towards and exposure to a range of emergencies, and pertinent demographic characteristics. The results showed a relationship between how nurses view their household preparedness and their actual preparedness. Regression analyses indicate that while there is an overlap, the factors associated with how prepared nurses think they are and how prepared they are can differ. This means that strategies to boost actual preparedness may differ from those needed to boost perceived preparedness. This finding underscores the importance of psychosocial preparedness. Feeling prepared is crucial as it can influence how one responds in an emergency. Considering both the perceived and actual aspects of household preparedness can lead to a more effective response during emergencies.
Evaluation of stress-controlled high-cycle fatigue characteristics in PLA-wood fused deposition modeling 3D-printed parts under bending loads
Authors: Kianifar Morteza , Azadi Mohammad , Heidari Fatemeh
Published: April 2024

PLA (Poly-lactic acid)-wood provides more biodegradability through natural fibers, a significant advantage of pure PLA. Nevertheless, these bio-composites may have inferior mechanical properties compared to non-degradable polymer composites, considering the lower strength of natural particles compared to synthetic fibers. This research examines the fatigue behavior of additive-manufactured biopolymer PLA-wood and assesses its comparability with pure PLA. Therefore, solid fatigue test samples were printed using the FDM (fused deposition modeling) method. Afterward, fully reversed rotary bending fatigue experiments were performed at 4 different stress levels (7.5 to 15 MPa) to extract the S-N curve of PLA-wood. Moreover, the fatigue fracture surfaces of the PLA-wood were investigated and compared at the highest and lowest stress levels using an FE-SEM (Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy), indicating more ductile fracture marks at higher stress levels. The fatigue lifetime of the PLA-wood decreased by 87.48% at the highest stress level (15 MPa), rather than the result at the lowest stress level (7.5 MPa). Additionally, the results demonstrated that the fatigue characteristics of the printed pure PLA and PLA-wood were comparable, suggesting that the 3D-printed PLA-wood with the used printing parameters can be an alternative choice.
Can digital economy compensate the effect of aging on total factor productivity?
Authors: Meng Fange , Wen Xin
Published: April 2024

In China, the number of senior citizens has grown, along with the burden of old age, and aging has hampered economic growth. The advent of the digital age has led to the emergence of the digital economy as a new engine for economic growth. This paper uses DEA-Malmquist index model to measure the total factor productivity growth rate of 31 provinces in China from 2011 to 2021, and uses the moderating effects model to empirically investigate the relationship between the digital economy, aging and total factor productivity, and to verify whether the development of the digital economy can mitigate the negative impact of aging on total factor productivity. The results show that aging inhibits total factor productivity growth, and the digital economy can promote total factor productivity growth. Digital economy can alleviate the negative impact of aging on total factor productivity growth, and has a moderating effect. Digital economy plays a moderating role by improving the level of human capital and facilitating technological progress. The regional heterogeneity analysis shows that the moderating effect of the digital economy exists in the eastern and western regions and the southern region, but not in the central region and the northern region. Furthermore, the digital economy has a moderating effect on both the high and low aging groups. The research in this paper not only helps to evaluate the productivity effects of the digital economy, but also has important implications for finding ways to mitigate the negative effects of aging.
Influence of rice husk ash on the mechanical properties of ultra-high strength engineered cementitious composites (UHS-ECC)
Authors: Liu Feifei , Jin Baohong , He Qi , Zhou Yun
Published: April 2024

Generally, UHS-ECC should consume massive cement, which is negative to its sustainability as cement production leads to 8% of global CO2 emissions. To decrease the cost of production and carbon emissions of UHS-ECC, rice husk ash was employed to replace the cement as a supplementary cementitious material in this study. Experiment results illustrate that blending rice husk ash (RHA) would decrease the fluidity of mortar. Furthermore, the green UHS-ECC shows a maximum compressive strength of 130.3 MPa at 28 days when RHA content was 20% of cement. The ultimate tensile strength of UHS-ECCs first increased and then decreased, while both tensile strain and strain energy presented an opposite tendency. At the micro-scale, if RHA content was lower than 20% of cement, incorporating RHA can significantly decreasing fiber bridging complementary energy of UHS-ECC, thus reducing pseudo strain hardening energy (PSHenergy) index, which finely agrees with the degradation of ductility of UHS-ECCs. To guarantee the features of ultra-high strength, acceptable workability, and high tensile ductility, the RHA dosage should not be in excess 20% of cement. These researched results are prospected to the contribution of pozzolanic RHA on the efficient usage of sustainable UHS-ECC.
Exploring the impact of climate technology, financial inclusion and renewable energy on ecological footprint: Evidence from top polluted economies
Authors: Wang Lu , Ye Fanyuan , Lin Jianlin , Bibi Natasha
Published: April 2024

Most South Asian countries’ economies have grown dramatically during the past few decades. However, in light of their environmental sustainability goals, the quality of such growth performances by South Asian nations is called into doubt by the concurrent degradation in environmental quality. Consequently, reducing the environmental challenges these nations encounter is prioritized on the agendas of the relevant authorities. This study aimed to analyze the effect of the top 11 most polluted countries’ levels of financial inclusion, technological innovation, consumption of renewable energy, and adoption of climate technology on environmental deterioration from 2000 to 2022. Therefore, this research aims to use cutting-edge panel data econometric techniques to investigate the factors contributing to high carbon footprints in the world’s most polluted nations. The results support an inverted U-shaped relationship between economic growth and carbon footprints, crediting the environmental Kuznets curve concept. In addition, it has been shown that TECH, REC, and CT can reduce carbon footprints in both the short and long term, while GDP and financial inclusion only affect carbon footprints in the long term. The results further endorsed the pollution haven hypothesis by showing that GDP positively affects carbon footprint. As a result, leading polluting economies need to strengthen their financial sectors, create green technology, migrate to renewable energy, and limit financial inclusion to improve environmental quality.
Decreased risk of underdosing with continuous infusion versus intermittent administration of cefotaxime in patients with sickle cell disease and acute chest syndrome
Authors: Razazi Keyvan , Berti Enora , Cecchini Jerome , Carteaux Guillaume , Habibi Anoosha , Bartolucci Pablo , Arrestier Romain , Gendreau Ségolène , de Prost Nicolas , Hulin Anne , Dessap Armand Mekontso
Published: April 2024

Objective

Underdosing of antibiotics is common in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). We hypothesized that in critically-ill patients with SCD receiving cefotaxime during acute chest syndrome, the continuous infusion may outperform the intermittent administration in achieving pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic targets.

Design

Prospective before-after study.

Settings

Intensive-care unit of a French teaching hospital and sickle cell disease referral center.

Patients

Sixty consecutive episodes of severe acute chest syndrome in 58 adult patients with sickle cell disease.

Interventions

Patients were treated with intermittent administration during the first period (April 2016 –April 2018) and with continuous infusion during the second period (May 2018 –August 2019).

Measurements and main results

We included 60 episodes of acute chest syndrome in 58 patients (29 [25–34] years, 37/58 (64%) males). Daily dose of cefotaxime was similar between groups (59 [48–88] vs. 61 [57–64] mg/kg/day, p = 0.84). Most patients (>75%) presented a glomerular hyperfiltration with no difference between groups (p = 0.25). More patients had a cefotaxime trough level ≥2 mg/L with continuous infusion than intermittent administration: 28 (93%) vs. 5 (16%), p<0.001. The median residual concentration was higher in the continuous infusion than intermittent administration group: 10.5 [7.4–13.3] vs. 0 [0–0] mg/L, p<0.001. No infection relapse was observed in the entire cohort. Hospital length of stay was similar between groups.

Conclusion

As compared to intermittent administration, continuous infusion of cefotaxime maximizes the pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic parameters in patients with SCD. The clinical outcome did not differ between the two administration methods; however, the study was underpowered to detect such a difference.
EVENTS: A STRATEGIC TOOL FOR DEVELOPING EVENT TOURISM
Authors: Akhundova A. G.
Published: April 2024

In the modern world, event tourism is becoming increasingly popular and in demand, offering opportunities for the development of the tourism industry and attracting visitors. One of the key factors contributing to its growth is the effective use of events. Events, or activities, have become an integral part of travel, attracting tourists of various interests and ages. Whether they are festivals, conferences, sports events, or cultural holidays, events have a tremendous impact on the tourism industry. They are not just random parties — they are magnets for travelers, creating unforgettable experiences and inspiring adventures. Events reflect the spirit and culture of regions, serving as not only tourist attractions but also powerful factors of economic, socio-cultural, and environmental influence. They act as catalysts for the development of event tourism, guiding travelers to new horizons and enriching the lives of local communities. The organization and execution of events are important strategic tools for the development of event tourism. In this connection, there is a need for a professional approach to organizing and analyzing the results of events in order to achieve maximum benefits for regions and tourist destinations. The aim of this article is to analyze the key aspects of event tourism and highlight the importance and role of events in attracting tourists and developing the tourism industry.
INVINMENTAL PROBLEMS OF REGIONAL ECONOMY OF SOME TERRITORIES OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Authors: Babkina L. N. , Skotarenko О. V.
Published: April 2024

The article discusses the most pressing problems of reducing the quality of some components of the environment (natural) in federal districts — macroregions of the Russian Federation, which require their solution. An analysis of the level of atmospheric air pollution by emissions of harmful and polluting substances from stationary sources, based on data from annual state statistical reporting, showed that over the previous 11 years, the minimum volume of emissions was noted in the North Caucasus macroregion, and the maximum in the Siberian macroregion. The next one is the problem of pollution of the seas of the Arctic Ocean with wastewater from Russian rivers flowing into these seas, containing such a substance that pollutes the water basin of the entire planet as microplastic. The largest volume of such polluted waters was noted in the Arkhangelsk region (Northwestern macroregion), Krasnoyarsk region and Tomsk region (Siberian macroregion), and the smallest in the Kostroma region (Central macroregion) and the Republic of Tyva (Siberian macroregion). The problem of preserving and restoring such a component of the natural environment as forests, including in the protected zone of Lake Baikal and the volcanoes of the Kamchatka Peninsula, is debatable. An analysis of plans for the construction of several waste processing complexes and waste processing plants in the North-Western macroregion is aimed at identifying possibilities for solving the problem of a future reduction in the volume of such a component of the natural environment as anthropogenic waste. To solve some problems, the authors propose specific measures.
LOGISTICS OF EXPORT DELIVERY IN THE CONTEXT OF CROSS-BORDER TRADE
Authors: Bocharov S. N. , Butakova M. M. , Sokolova O. N.
Published: April 2024

The article is devoted to one of the aspects of the formation of new export logistics, capable of responding to the challenges of a turbulent global economy. The authors analyze modern logistics problems of export supplies. Particular attention is paid to exports as an integral part of cross-border trade. The authors dwell not only on the general problems of logistics of export activities, but also identify the specifics of the logistics of cross-border trade, choosing as the object of study the countries of Greater Altai, which includes the border territories of the Russian Federation, Mongolia, the Republic of Kazakhstan and the People's Republic of China.

The study analyzed the dynamics and structure of exports of the Russian Federation and the Altai Territory, and showed the features of new logistics in a turbulent economy. Given the high share of logistics costs in the overall cost structure of the production and sale of exported products, cross-border trade has advantages when it is carried out with lower logistics costs due to shorter transport routes and transportation times. The advantages of cross-border export include the absence of transit through the territories of third countries, which significantly reduces risks and simplifies information and customs logistics. Stable supply chains in cross-border trade in the Altai Territory, which have emerged as a result of many years of cooperation with the countries of Greater Altai, also help reduce risks and logistics costs.
ASSESSMENT OF ORGANIZATIONAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE ASPECTS OF CONVICTS’ LABOR ADAPTATION IN PENITENTIARY INSTITUTIONS OF VARIOUS TYPES
Authors: Dyatlov Yu. N.
Published: April 2024

Currently, due to the social orientation of convicts' work, the study of the organizational and administrative features of their labor adaptation in various types of correctional institutions is relevant, and its results are of practical importance for substantiating measures to improve the sphere of penitentiary employment. In this regard, the article analyzes the results of a questionnaire survey of convicts held in open and semi-open penitentiary institutions on the example of colonies-settlements and correctional colonies of strict regime, which was conducted by the author in accordance with the purpose of the study. The choice of the investigated correctional institutions and the volume of the sample population are justified. The main attention is paid to the problems of organizing the work of convicts in the correctional institutions under consideration and the role of employees in this process, the working conditions of convicts, the degree of satisfaction with the work performed, and the peculiarities of their attitude to employment in the post-penitentiary period. Some measures are proposed to improve the content and organizational aspects of the activities of correctional institutions to adapt to the work of persons held in them.
INCENTIVING PERSONAL OF BUDGETARY ORGANIZATIONS BASE ON THE USE OF KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
Authors: Kovaleva I. V. , Drugova T. V. , Tingaeva N. А.
Published: April 2024

The article discusses issues of motivation and incentives for personnel of budgetary organizations. An analysis of recruiting companies showed that wages are an important incentive to perform work duties, capable of encouraging employees to achieve assigned tasks with high dedication and a focus on productive, efficient work. A well-designed and thoughtful system of personnel incentives has a beneficial effect on the quality and results of the work performed, and promotes creative and professional activity. The main requirements include higher education and (or) professional retraining, work experience in the areas where professional activities are carried out; the absence of outstanding or unexpunged convictions for crimes, as well as the presence of Russian citizenship. Additional requirements for personnel of budgetary organizations include — compliance with the Code of Ethics and Official Conduct of Public Sector Employees, detailed in accordance with the powers of state authorities (state bodies) or local governments provided for by the legislation of the Russian Federation. The implementation of key performance indicators in the budgetary sector must be agreed upon with an assessment of the quality of financial management, which will significantly improve the rating of the main managers of budget funds, which has an impact on the efficiency and effectiveness of the activities of government bodies.
TRANSFORMATION OF THE BUSINESS MODEL OF TOURISM ACTIVITIES WITH THE INTRODUCTION OF BLOCKCHAIN TECHNOLOGY
Authors: Platov A. V. , Novichkova I. A. , Litvinova O. I.
Published: April 2024

Thanks to the ability of blockchain to form transparency of processes, it can become the basis of fundamental transformations in business relations in the tourism industry and radical transformations of business processes. In order for the potential of the blockchain in the tourism industry to be revealed most effectively, it is necessary to rebuild tourist business models based on it. The purpose of the presented research was to develop a conceptual business model of tourism industry enterprises operating on the basis of the blockchain platform. To achieve this goal, a redesign of the Osterwalder Canvas business model in the tourism sector was implemented on a blockchain platform. The main method of data collection was an expert survey conducted in the format of semistructured personal interviews. 12 respondents who are experts in the field of blockchain and tourism were selected to conduct the survey. The results of the study are reflected in the format of a business model. This study has several theoretical conclusions: firstly, the introduction of blockchain technology in tourism creates a new industry business model, secondly, the proposed model considers the tourism business market from a systemic point of view, thirdly, blockchain creates a unique opportunity to meet the needs of stakeholders and clients in the tourism sector through peer-to-peer interaction. The practical significance of the study is expressed in determining the important role of disintermediation and smart contracts in the tourism business model on the blockchain platform.
NON-FINANCIAL REPORTING: PRACTICE OF GENERATING AND MONITORING ESG DATA
Authors: Sannikova I. N. , Semikolenova M. N.
Published: April 2024

The implementation of the sustainable development agenda is driving growing interest in the formation and disclosure of ESG data in companies» non-financial reporting. Currently, reporting in the field of sustainable development in the Russian Federation is at the stage of development, but already has many years of experience in the formation of estimated values and the application of Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standards. This article analyzes the dynamics of non-financial reporting of Russian companies and identifies the main trends in its development. A content analysis of non-financial reporting items was carried out using a score in the context of ESG components: environmental, economic and social. The results of the study, on the one hand, allow us to conclude that the reporting indicators of leading companies in the field of sustainable development are highly complete, clear and reliable, but, on the other hand, they indicate low comparability of the reporting indicators of different economic entities. The lack of uniform approaches and standards for developing the structure and composition of non-financial reporting indicators is the main obstacle to its interpretation by various groups of stakeholders.
IMPROVING WORKING CONDITIONS FOR WORKERS INSTALLING MONUMENTS IN RITUAL ECONOMY
Authors: Senchenko V. A. , Kaverzneva T. T. , Fetisov A. G. , Arslanbekova F. F.
Published: April 2024

The ritual industry in everyday life is emotionally associated with mourning. Оccupational safety issues in this industry are not discussed as widely in society as in other industries. The ritual industry does not have its own sectoral labor protection rules, therefore, labor protection issues are regulated only by intersectoral labor protection rules.

Memorial structures in terms of weight, as a rule, exceed the maximum permissible norms for single lifting and moving weights for men. Therefore, when lifting and moving memorial structures, means of small mechanization are required.

In large cities, burial in cemeteries is very dense and the passages between the graves are getting narrower and narrower. Therefore, at present, an essential requirement for the means of mechanization for the transportation

of monuments is the requirement that the dimensions of transport mechanisms correspond to the dimensions of narrow passages. Various types of mechanization equipment (trolleys) for transporting monuments are presented on the Russian market, but most of them are wider in size than necessary.

This article examines the working conditions and risks of a worker installing monuments in a ritual household. The article presents technical solutions for moving memorial structures around the cemetery using small-scale mechanization tools to reduce the severity of workers» labor. Reducing the severity of workers» work will reduce the number of.
THE DURATION OF THE IMPACT OF THE “INVESTOR FEAR INDEX” ON THE RUSSIAN STOCK MARKET
Authors: Tenkovskaya L. I.
Published: April 2024

In the process of investing during the period of expectation of a new global economic crisis, it is important to sell existing shares on time. In this regard, the topic of research on the impact of the “investor fear index” on the Russian stock market is relevant. The purpose of the research is to establish the duration of the impact of the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) on the American and Russian stock markets. To achieve this goal, the following tasks have been solved: theoretical issues of the VIX relationship with stock markets, global economic crises, risk-free assets, monetary incentives have been considered; an appropriate research methodology has been selected; economic and mathematical models have been built reflecting the relationship of the stock markets of the United States and Russia with the “investor fear index”. The results of the study work showed that after the impact of high values of the “investor fear index”, signaling the onset of a new global economic crisis, the Russian stock market will recover and grow within twelve years, the price of shares of Sberbank PJSC — within seven years, the price of shares of Gazprom PJSC — within four years. The results of tainted have practical importance for long-term investors.