bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Investigate The Impact of Locus of Control and Self-Confidence on Prosocial Behavior and Religiosity among Students
Authors: Saguni Fatimah , Fakhrurrozi Hatta
Published: December 2023

The goal of this study was to see what effect locus of control and self-confidence had on the prosocial behavior and religiosity of students at State Islamic University Datokarama. The methodology employed was quantitative. The data was analyzed using multiple linear regression correlation, which was done with SPSS for Windows version 17. This study covered four variables, consisting of two independent variables and two dependent variables, namely locus of control (X1) and self-confidence (X2) as independent factors and prosocial behavior (Y1) and religiosity (Y2) as dependent variables, with a total of 30 students as samples. The Likert scale was utilized as the instrument or data-gathering tool by the researcher. (1) Locus of control has a considerable effect on IAIN Palu students' prosocial conduct. People with an internal locus of control contributed to their competency by exercising environmental control. (2) The locus of control variable had a substantial effect on IAIN Palu students' religiosity. The man diligently followed his religious teachings and commitments. (3) The self-confidence variable had a substantial effect on IAIN Palu students' prosocial conduct. Prosocial behavior is defined as behavior that demonstrates a student's concern and attention through acts that help others. (4) The self-confidence variable had a substantial effect on IAIN Palu students' religiosity. Their acts were free of concern. They were free to do anything they wanted, were accountable for their acts, and were courteous in their relationships with others.
On the regulation of municipal indebtedness
Authors: Pocsai Erzsébet
Published: December 2023

The indebtedness of the Hungarian domestic municipal lending market was an area of intense research prior to the consolidation of municipal debt. Research analysed the possible causes and explanations of the rise in indebtedness and attempted to identify a model of indebtedness in the domestic municipal system, drawing on the experience of international models and examples. In parallel with the debt consolidation process, which was carried out in several steps between 2011 and 2014, a number of active and passive control elements were introduced in Hungary, which can be grouped in several ways. The introduced control elements have lived up to expectations. At the same time, the increase in the stock of other liabilities in the sector points to a shift in the sector's indebtedness from being indebted to bank financiers to being indebted to other counterparties.
Small-scale retention as an element of the eco-city concept in the context of strategic planning documents in Poland
Authors: Rogatka Krzysztof , Brzezicka-Rawa Anna , Lewandowska Aleksandra , Kustra-Rogatka Aleksandra , Leźnicki Marcin
Published: December 2023

Contemporary cities should be developed based on concepts grounded in ecology and sustainable development. The eco-city is one of such concepts which emphasises the role of hydrological resources, especially small-scale retention, in environmentally- and user-friendly spatial development.Pro-environmental concepts are manifested mainly as provisions reflecting the above principles in the strategic documents of cities. The aim of this article was to verify the hypothesis postulating that in “Studies of the Conditions and Directions of Spatial Development” (SCaDSD) [in Polish: “Studia uwarunkowań i kierunków zagospodarowania przestrzennego” – SUiKZP], which are the fundamental strategic documents for Polish cities, the approach to small-scale retention is diverse and often insufficient from the “eco-city” perspective. To achieve the research goal, SCaDSDs were analysed in a comparative study (7,061 data records for spatial planning and small-scale retention were analysed). The study demonstrated that in SCaDSDs, small-scale retention solutions are diversified both quantitatively and qualitatively, which may hinder the implementation of the eco-city concept in terms of small-scale retention. SCaDSDs focus primarily on the protective and cleansing roles of retention, including protection against flood risk and access to clean water which is a basic human need. SCaDSDs should offer a multi-functional approach to retention and thus fully implement“eco-city” principles. This is a particularly important consideration because the role of strategic planning documents is to provide up-to-date directions for the sustainable development for modern cities.
Ways of ensuring effective detection of multiposition OFDM signals
Authors:   State University of Information and Communication Technologies, Kyiv, Zakharzhevskyi A. H.
Published: December 2023

The problem of processing various stages of signal detection in interference conditions was investigated, statistical processing methods were analyzed. The task of information processing is to detect the moment of change in the input signal (change in signal level, change in frequency, occurrence of a pulse signal, etc.). External interference distorts the input signal, so it can be distinguished based on the statistical difference between interference and mixing. Additional interference that distorts the input signal in the equipment of the telecommunications system is introduced during the conversion of the signal before entering the digital processing equipment. Various methods of statistical processing are studied: optimal, adaptive, non-classical optimization methods based on the principles of non-displacement, invariance, similarity, etc. The application of non-parametric methods was investigated when the functional form of the distribution of the input data was unknown and only the general difference between the presence and absence of the signal was indicated. The ranking method of signal detection processing deserves special attention. Adaptive methods are used if the distribution of input data is known with accuracy up to the array of unknown parameters. Nonparametric methods are used when the functional form of the distribution of input data is unknown, and only the general differences between the situations of the presence and absence of a signal are specified. The analysis of signal detection methods shows that one of the promising directions of research is the development of methods that use the invariant properties of the system and ensure the maximum possible storage of signal information. It was studied that the flexibility of the ranking procedure makes it possible to solve a wide range of problems in the detection of multi-position signals under conditions of non-parametric a priori uncertainty.
Methodology for the synthesis of the system of phase synchronization of coherent demodulators with a variable structure of open communication
Authors:   State University of Information and Communication Technologies, Kyiv, Nevgod M. Yu.
Published: December 2023

One of the factors of internal disturbances and obstacles in the operation of the synchronization system, which directly affect the accuracy of the estimation of the carrier frequency and the dynamics of the entire system, are transient processes caused by the system’s reaction to the transition from one stationary state to another stationary state. At the current stage of research devoted to the issue of minimizing the influence of the transient process on the operation of the phase synchronization system, increasing the speed and reducing the transient component of the phase error, which is generated by the transient processes, was solved by synthesizing the open connection of the synchronization system under the condition of minimizing the phase error in steady and transient modes of operation. In the work, a mathematical model and a technique based on it were developed, which allow the synthesis of open communication with a variable structure in the combined synchronization system of satellite telecommunications, which ensure the minimization of the influence of transient processes on the efficiency of the synchronization system. The open communication scheme with a variable structure proposed in the work allows to minimize the impact of the transient process on the efficiency of the synchronization system by reducing the time of the transient process by taking into account the level of harmful disturbances of the transient process. The evaluation of the possibility of an open connection with a variable structure in terms of the effect on the time of the transition process carried out in the work showed that by logically switching to the branch of the open connection with the corresponding values of the time operator, it is possible to achieve up to a 6.7 times reduction in the time of the transition process.
Load distribution strategy of decentralized databases
Authors:   State University of Information and Communication Technologies, Kyiv, Khomenchuk V. O.
Published: December 2023

Load management in databases typically involves segmentation strategies that determine the distribution and placement of information within data storage systems. This article explores a critical aspect of data segmentation and the challenges associated with selecting the right strategy. Some of the discussed strategies, such as range-based strategy and hashing strategy, come with their limitations and risks that can complicate scalability and data migration operations. The article also highlights issues related to choosing a specific data segmentation pattern in databases, including data movement complexity, uneven load distribution, transactional problems, and data integrity preservation. Choosing the right segmentation strategy is crucial to ensure the efficiency and productivity of a data storage system, and it should be a thoughtful choice tailored to the specific requirements of the system. The article discusses important data segmentation strategies in storage systems, which play a key role in the distribution and management of large datasets. The authors explore three main strategies: the search strategy, the range strategy, and the hashing strategy. Each of these strategies has its unique advantages and characteristics. The search strategy provides maximum control over data placement and the ability to use virtual segments for data balancing. This strategy is particularly useful for multi-user applications but may introduce additional overhead during segment retrieval. The range strategy groups related data into one segment and works well with queries for ranges of values. However, it can lead to uneven load distribution. The hashing strategy helps evenly distribute the load and avoid highly active segments but may introduce additional computational overhead when calculating the hash. The article also discusses data scaling and relocation operations for each of these strategies. For example, the search strategy allows for data scaling and relocation at the user level without system downtime. This article helps readers better understand the differences between data segmentation strategies and choose the most suitable one for their specific use case.
Structure of the knowledge base for modeling hydroacoustic fields based on ray theory
Authors:   National Technical University of Ukraine “Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute”, Kyiv, Pyrohovska T. V.
Published: December 2023

The proposed research suggests improving the design and documentation of the implementation of modeling through the use of ontology. The ontology model allows you to structure information and also increases search efficiency. The study describes the development of an ontological model of engineering knowledge for modeling the hydroacoustic fields of the marine water area. The use of the ontology model for the development of the engineering knowledge portal allows you to systematize data and knowledge, organize search and navigation, and describe information and computing resources in accordance with metaconcept standards. The description of the subject area of the modeling system is based on the ontology, which allows you to assess the completeness of the proposed model and provide extended detailed documentation of the system.
Anomalous peony (Paeonia anomala L.) In the Urals and contiguous landsAnomalous peony (Paeonia anomala L.) In the Urals and contiguous lands
Authors: Napalkova V. V.
Published: December 2023

Modern varieties of flowering ornamental plants have high economic and social significance. Prominent representatives of active long-term plant breeding are various varieties of peonies, which are actively used in landscaping botanical gardens, urban landscapes and smallholdings. With the development of molecular genetics, the selection of ornamental varieties of flowering plants has received a new impetus in its development. Researchers have identified markers that determine important decorative and economic qualities, such as flower shape, leaf color, corolla color, variety of double flower, aroma, which allows to intensify plant breeding, and also, which is quite important, to certify new varieties. In this article, we have given an overview of the results of longterm studies of representatives of the genus Paeonia in the Urals and contiguous lands, since the mid-twentieth century to the present, both domestic and foreign scientific schools. The article presents data on the locations of the anomalous peony along the Ural mountain range, the morphology and ecology of the growth of representatives of this species, medicinal properties, the results of molecular genetic typing of various marker systems. The points requiring more detailed study are indicated: there is no complete up-to-date information on the distribution of the anomalous peony in the Urals, there is no up-to-date data on the population size, there is no information about the molecular genetic structure of the species as a whole. The anomalous peony is a red book species that has a high level of decorativeness, as well as resistance to diseases that can be used not only in pharmacology, but also in modern plant selection. It is known that the number of populations of anomalous peony is low, in places of meetings it is noted singly, less often in small groups, which is connected with the active use of this species in folk medicine. Vegetative and root systems contain a large number of biologically active components with different properties. To develop measures for the protection and rational use of representatives of Paeonia anomala growing in the Urals, it is necessary to study the species more closely in order to preserve it in nature and further use in breeding and hybridization as a source of genes that will help significantly improve the plant breeding potential of modern varieties.
Rare median and musculocutaneous nerve fusion with intraoperative electrical confirmation: illustrative case
Authors: Huang Audrey , Vazquez Sima , Dominguez Jose , Mohan Avinash , Li Jin , Pisapia Jared M
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND

Nerve transfer is a surgical technique in which a redundant or expendable fascicle is transferred or coapted to an injured nerve distal to the site of injury for the purpose of reinnervation. Successful nerve transfer is dependent on correct intraoperative identification of donor and recipient nerves.

OBSERVATIONS

An 8-year-old male was recommended for ulnar nerve fascicle to biceps branch of musculocutaneous nerve transfer to restore elbow flexion weakness after a demyelinating spinal cord injury. The biceps branch was identified approximately midway along the upper arm. Proximal musculocutaneous nerve stimulation induced hand movement and electromyography activity in the median nerve muscles. Neurolysis of the thickened proximal structure revealed fusion of the musculocutaneous and median nerves. Because of the proximity of the median and musculocutaneous nerves, median rather than ulnar nerve fascicles were used as donors for transfer.

LESSONS

The authors provide the first reported intraoperative finding of an anatomical variant in which the musculocutaneous nerve and median nerve were fused in the upper arm, confirmed through intraoperative electrical stimulation. Surgeons should be aware of this rare anatomical variant to ensure correct nerve identification when performing nerve transfers in the proximal upper extremity.
A BRIEF OVERVIEW TO SOLID WASTE TREATMENT & RECENT PRACTICE OF TURKEY
Authors: KURAMA Haldun
Published: December 2023

High rates of energy and goods consumption, combined with increasing population growth and high living standards, lead to the ever-increasing production of solid waste. The amount of solid waste generated today has reached a level that poses serious threats to the environment and the sustainable management of the country's economies. Although action plans are being prepared and implemented by countries, unions and institutions for the environmentally friendly and sustainable management of solid waste, it is seen that the threat still exists for the near future. Within the scope of solid waste, management of household waste is undoubtedly one of the most important issues today. The MSW EU average for 2021 reached 530 million tons. Similarly, a total of 104.8 million tons of waste was generated in Turkey in 2020, 32.3 million tons of which were domestic waste. Although, today, the most common method of solid waste control globally is storage in open or controlled landfills, it is seen that Thermal conversion, MTB or Liquefaction applications, which enable energy production especially within the cyclical economy and production model, are increasingly increasing.
The aim of this compilation study, in which global and country-based statistics are briefly presented, is to raise awareness of the increasing threat.
Evaluation of the Effect of Inferior Oblique Myectomy on Corneal and Anterior Segment Parameters
Authors: YILMAZ Ömer Faruk , TOPTAN Müslüm , ÇAKICI Özgur , OĞUZ Halit
Published: December 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of inferior oblique myectomy (IOM) surgery on the cornea and anterior segment. Methods: The sheimpflug corneal topographies of 56 eyes of 33 patients who underwent IOM were analyzed at preoperative, postoperative 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months. Astigmatism degree (Cyl), astigmatism axis (Ax), K1, central corneal thickness (CCT), anterior chamber depth (ACD), anterior chamber volume (ACV), iridocorneal angle (ICA), and horizontal visible iris diameter (HVID) were evaluated. Results: The mean corneal Cyl, K1, ICA, ACD, and HVID did not change after IOM (p=0.671, p=0.377, p=0.431, p=0.588, p=0.795, respectively). There was a statistically significant change in Ax (p=0.025). The right Ax decreased, and the left Ax increased the most at 1 month (p=0.025, p=0.882, respectively). Ax increase was also detected in the left eye that was not operated on. The mean CCT increased and mean ACV decreased at 1 month (p=0.588, p=0.270, respectively), but these changes returned to preoperative values at 3 months. Conclusion: The manifestation of anterior segment alterations and intorsion in both eyes following inferior oblique myectomy may contribute to diminished visual acuity and the potential onset of amblyopia. These alterations merit consideration during the assessment, and if deemed necessary, the provision of new spectacles should be considered as a preventive measure against anisometropic amblyopia.
Glutathione-S-transferase genes polymorphism in the formation of increased epithelial permeability syndrome in children with gastrointestinal food allergy
Authors:   Pacific State Medical University, PRIKHODCHENKO N. G. , ZERNOVA E. S. ,   Pacific State Medical University, SHUMATOVA T. A. ,   Pacific State Medical University, A. NI A. NI ,   Pacific State Medical University, KOVALENKO D. V. ,   Pacific State Medical University
Published: December 2023

In order to study the role of glutathione transferase genes polymorphism in the formation of increased epithelial permeability syndrome in children with food allergy, we examined 39 young children (from 1.5 months to 3 years, group I) with a gastrointestinal form of food allergy and 30 healthy children with an uncomplicated anamnesis, comparable in sex and age (control group). It was found the association of alleles — /del of the GSTM1 gene and Ile105/Ala114 of the GSTP1 gene — with the development of increased epithelial permeability syndrome in food allergies in children. The obtained associations indirectly indicate the contribution of disturbances in the glutathione transferase system in children with gastrointestinal forms of food allergy both in terms of the syndrome of increased epithelial permeability formation and the comorbid pathology development.
Trends in physical development of young children born in 2018-2019 in Yaroslavl, determined based of international WHO standards
Authors:   Yaroslavl State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, MASKOVA G. S. , MOSZHUKHINA L. I. ,   Yaroslavl State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, GANUZIN V. M. ,   Yaroslavl State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Russia, PISAREVA M. V. ,   Regional Children’s Clinical Hospital, SIBIRSKAYA A. YA. ,   Regional Perinatal Center,
Published: December 2023

The purpose — to assess the physical development dynamics in full-term children during the first three years of life using the international standards of physical development (WHO Growth Standards, 2006). Material and methods. A single-stage clinical study of 133 children (62 boys and 71 girls, 3 y. o. in 2021-2022) was conducted, as well as a retrospective assessment of the anamnestic data of their development from birth according to outpatient records. Physical development during clinical examination and analysis of outpatient records was assessed based on WHO standards. Results. In the first year of life, 16-20% of children had disorders of physical development, with a predominance of malnutrition in the first half of the year, and excess nutrition in the second half of the first year; during 2–3 years of life, the predominant form of nutritional disorders was overweight, which was detected in 15% of children. In the first 3 years of life, children had a high prevalence of the «Risk of overweigh» category (19–40%). For the first time, the diagnosis of obesity among children (4%) in the study population was established at the age of 15–18 months. Conclusions. Monitoring the dynamics of the nutritional status of children at an early age remains an urgent problem of pediatrics. Efforts of pediatricians should be directed to the development of individual nutrition programs for the pregnant woman and the baby in early childhood with personalized prescriptions.
Serum aspartate aminotransferase, a novel potential biomarker of prognosis in extranodal natural killer/T cell lymphoma, nasal type
Authors: Yao Ningning , Hou Qing , Liang Yu , Cao Xin , Sun Bochen , Wei Lijuan , Sun Ruifang , Cao Jianzhong
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), an indicator of liver cell damage, was related to the prognosis of certain malignant tumors.

OBJECTIVE:

This study examined the predictive value of AST in patients with extranodal natural killer/T cell lymphoma (ENKTL).

METHODS:

We reviewed 183 cases diagnosed with ENKTL and selected 26 U/L as the optimum cut-off value of AST. We used the univariate and multivariate Cox regression to compare the different AST groups’ overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).

RESULTS:

Prior to propensity score matching (PSM), Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that patients in the low AST subgroup had better OS and PFS than the high AST subgroup. Multivariate analysis revealed that AST was an independent indicator for prognosis. After PSM, the low AST subgroup maintained a significantly better OS and PFS than the high AST subgroup.

CONCLUSION:

AST might represent a significant prognostic marker for ENKTL patients.
Investigation on data-based new energy generation forecasting method
Authors: Hao Xiaoguang , Ma Rui , Fan Hui , Li Jianfeng , Jin Fei , Hu Changbin , Luo Shanna
Published: December 2023

In the era of increasingly prominent energy crisis and environmental protection issues, New Energy (NE) Power Generation (PG) has increasingly attracted people’s attention with its advantages of cleanness, environmental protection and renewable. However, the output of the generation power of the NE generation system has periodicity, volatility and randomness. After grid connection, it becomes an uncontrollable power source and may affect the security and stability of the grid. Therefore, it is of great significance to carry out in-depth discussion on the power prediction of NE generation. This paper explored the NE PG prediction method from the perspective of photovoltaic (PV) PG, and put forward the PV PG power prediction method: the prediction method combining meteorological data and gray correlation degree, and the prediction method combining PG data and wavelet Neural Network (NN). This paper analyzed the prediction effect after putting forward the generation power prediction method, and evaluated the prediction effect through the sum of squares, mean square error and mean absolute error. The following conclusions were drawn: From the perspective of error sum of squares and mean square error, the prediction method combined with PG data and wavelet NN had better prediction effect; the difference of the average absolute error of the PV power generated by the two prediction methods was 2. From the point of view of the average absolute error, the prediction method combined with PG data and wavelet NN had better prediction accuracy.
Hybrid deep learning assisted chest X-ray image segmentation and classification for tuberculosis disease diagnosis
Authors: Tiwari Ajay , Katiyar Alok
Published: December 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) is an airborne infection affected by Mycobacterium TB. It is vital to identify cases of TB quickly if left untreated; there exists a 70% possibility of a patient dying in 10 years. An essential for extra device has been enhanced in mid to low-income countries because of the growth of automation in the field of medical care. The already restricted resources are being greatly assigned to control other dangerous infections. Modern digital radiography (DR) machines, utilized to screen chest X-rays (CXR) of possible TB victims. Combined with computer-aided detection (CAD) with the support of artificial intelligence (AI), radiologists employed in this domain actual support possible cases. This study presents a Hybrid Deep Learning Assisted Chest X-Ray Image Segmentation and Classification for Tuberculosis (HDL-ISCTB) diagnosis. The HDL-ISCTB model performs Otsu’s thresholding, which segments the lung regions from the input images. It effectually discriminates the lung areas from the background, decreasing computational complexity and potential noise. Besides, the segmented lung regions are then fed into the CNN-LSTM architecture for classification. The CNN-LSTM model leverages the powerful feature extraction capabilities of CNNs and the temporal dependencies captured by LSTM to obtain robust representations from sequential CXR image data. A wide experiments are conducted to calculate the performance of the presented approach in comparison to recent methods.
A tiny library with a million volumes: Open-source resource sharing with fulfillment interlibrary loan (ILL)
Authors: Hamby Rogan , Neiman Andrea Buntz
Published: December 2023

his paper is based upon a lightning talk given at the NISO Plus conference on February 14, 2023 and it describes interlibrary Loan syste4m, Fulfillment, developed by the Equinox Open Library Initiative. A thriving resource-sharing consortium allows libraries to offer broader and deeper opportunities for individual learning and greater community equity. It unlocks access to additional copies beyond what an owning library has available, along with a broad range of content owned within the network, which provides a diverse collection for library users. Providing access to such a rich network of resources is the goal of Fulfillment, an open-source resource sharing system which breaks down barriers to sharing collections.
Patterns of Aging Changes in Bodyweight May Predict Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Ukraintseva Svetlana , Duan Hongzhe , Holmes Rachel , Bagley Olivia , Wu Deqing , Yashkin Arseniy , Kulminski Alexander , Akushevich Igor , Whitson Heather , Stallard Eric , Yashin Anatoliy , Arbeev Konstantin
Published: December 2023

Relationships between patterns of aging-changes in bodyweight and AD are not fully understood. We compared mean age-trajectories of weight between those who did and did not develop late-onset-AD, and evaluated impact of age at maximum weight (AgeMax), and slope of decline in weight, on AD risk. Women with late-onset-AD had lower weight three or more decades before AD onset, and ∼10 years younger AgeMax, compared to AD-free women. APOE4 carriers had younger AgeMax and steeper slope. Older AgeMax and flatter slope predicted lower AD risk. Premature decline in weight could be a sign of accelerated physical aging contributing to AD.
Prevalence and Associations of Cognitive Impairment in Adult Patients with Moyamoya Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Toh Keith Z.X. , Koh Ming Yi , Loh Enver D.W. , Sia Ching-Hui , Chong Yaofeng , Yeo Leonard L.L. , Sharma Vijay K. , Lim Mervyn J.R. , Tan Benjamin Y.Q.
Published: December 2023

Background: Cognitive impairment, and in the long term Alzheimer’s disease, vascular, or mixed dementia, are potential complications of moyamoya disease (MMD), of which the prevalence and associations are not well established. Objective: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the prevalence of cognitive impairment in adult patients with MMD as well as its clinical and demographic correlates. Methods: We performed a systematic search of four electronic databases: PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, Scopus, and Cochrane Library, profiling studies from inception until 7 May 2023. Clinical data consisting of population characteristics, comorbidities, cognitive assessment tools used, and prevalence of cognitive impairment was extracted. Results: Seventeen studies were included in the meta-analysis, with a total study population of 1,190 patients. All studies assessed cognition, and the overall prevalence of cognitive impairment in MMD patients was 54.59%. A subgroup analysis identified that the prevalence of executive dysfunction in MMD patients was 31.55%. We performed a meta-regression analysis which identified that cognitive impairment was not associated with age, education level, or a history of ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. Conclusions: A substantial proportion of MMD patients have cognitive impairment, and cognitive impairment was found to have no association with a history of stroke. Further research is necessary to investigate the longitudinal relationship of MMD and cognitive impairment, and the impact of bypass surgery on cognitive impairment.
Point cloud based hand gesture recognition using template matching
Authors: Zheng Lingfei , Hu Zhubing , Yao Meiling , Xu Pengwei , Ma Jing
Published: December 2023

Hand gesture recognition is important in human-computer interaction with wide applications in many fields. Different from common hand gesture recognition based on 2D images acquired from RGB camera, the utilization of 3D images provides additional spatial information about the target and attracts more and more attention in hand gesture recognition. However, most 3D images for hand gesture recognition are based on depth maps, which only take the distance information as a channel of 2D images, without taking full use of the 3D information. Besides, greater data volume of 3D images brings challenges to the arithmetic facility of hand gesture recognition. Here, we proposed a point cloud based method for hand gesture recognition. To fully use the 3D information, plane points for template matching were extracted based on their normal distributions, which leads to the average recognition rate over 97%. Pre-classification was implemented to ensure a high-efficient recognition without additional requirements for the computer. The proposed method may provide approach for accurate and efficient hand gesture recognition based on 3D images.
CDCL-VRE: An ensemble deep learning-based model for distracted driver behavior detection
Authors: Sun Haibin , Li Zheng
Published: December 2023

Millions of traffic accidents occur worldwide each year, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths. The primary cause is the distracted behavior of drivers during the driving process. If the distracted behaviors of drivers during driving can be detected and recognized in time, drivers can regulate their driving and the goal of reducing the number of traffic fatalities can be achieved. A deep learning model is proposed to detect driver distractions in this paper. The model can identify ten behaviors including one normal driving behavior and nine distracted driving behaviors. The proposed model consists of two modules. In the first module, the cross-domain complementary learning (CDCL) algorithm is used to detect driver body parts in the input images, which reduces the impact of environmental factors in vehicles on the convolutional neural network. Then the output images of the first module are sent to the second module. The Resnet50 and Vanilla networks are ensembled in the second module, and then the driver behavior can be classified. The ensemble architecture used in the second module can reduce the sensitivity of only a single network on the data, and then the detection accuracy can be improved. Through the experiments, it can be seen that the proposed model in this paper can achieve an average accuracy of 99.0%.
The effects of focal muscle vibration on motor impairments in people with multiple sclerosis: A systematic review
Authors: Alashram Anas Radi
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:

Motor impairments are common consequences in people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). These impairments limit function independence and decrease activities of daily living. Focal muscle vibration (FMV) produces vibration signals affecting the central nervous system. No systematic review has been published investigating the effects of FMV on motor impairments in people with MS.

OBJECTIVES:

This review was conducted to investigate the effects of FMV in motor rehabilitation in PwMS.

METHODS:

PubMed, SCOPUS, REHABDATA, PEDro, CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Web of science were searched from their inception until May 2023. Studies were included if they were experimental studies, used FMV in PwMS, and evaluated motor impairments. Studies were excluded if they used other forms of vibration application (e.g., whole-body vibration) or used pharmacological treatments as a primary intervention. We evaluate the risk of bias using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale.

RESULTS:

Five studies met our eligibility criteria. Three studies were randomized controlled trials, a clinical controlled trial ( n = 1), and a pilot study ( n = 1). A total of 123 participants were included in this review (Mean age = 47), 42.28% of whom were men. The PEDro scale scores ranged from three to eight. The findings revealed beneficial and non-beneficial effects of FMV on motor function in PwMS.

CONCLUSIONS:

The FMV application is safe and well-tolerated in PwMS. The evidence for the impacts of FMV on motor impairments in PwMS was limited. Additional studies with long-term follow-ups are encouraged.
Acute pancreatitis associated with pleural effusion: MDCT manifestations and anatomical basis
Authors: Bao Zhi-Guo , Zhou Qing , Zhao Sen , Ren Wen-Yan , Du Sen , Li Yan , Wang Hang-Yu
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a severe condition with complications that can impact multiple organ systems throughout the body. Specifically, the diffusion of peripancreatic effusion to the pleural cavity is a significant phenomenon in AP. However, its pathways and implications for disease severity are not fully understood. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to investigate the anatomical routes of peripancreatic effusion diffusion into the pleural cavity in patients with AP and to analyze the correlation between the severity of pleural effusion (PE) and the computed tomography severity index (CTSI) and acute physiology and chronic health evaluation II (APACHE II) scoring system. METHODS: 119 patients with AP admitted to our institution were enrolled in this study (mean age 50 years, 74 male and 45 female). Abdominal CT was performed, and the CTSI and APACHE II index were used to evaluate the severity of the AP, Meanwhile, the prevalence and semiquantitative of PE were also mentioned. The anatomical pathways of peripancreatic effusion draining to pleural were analyzed. Finally, the correlation relationship between the severity of AP and the PE was analyzed. RESULTS: In 119 patients with AP, 74.8% of patients had PE on CT. The anatomic pathways of peripancreatic effusion draining to pleural included esophageal hiatus in 33.7% of patients, aortic hiatus in 6.7% of patients and inferior vena cava hiatus in 3.37% of patients. The rating of PE on CT was correlated with CTSI scores (r= 0.449, P= 0.000) and was slightly correlated with the APACHE II scores (r= 0.197, P= 0.016). CONCLUSION: PE is a common complication of AP, which can be caused by anatomic pathways such as diaphragmatic hiatus. Due to its correlation with the CTSI score, the PE may be a supplementary indicator in determining the severity of AP.
Analysis of Factors Influencing Health and Safety Programme in Selected Electricity Distribution Companies
Authors: Ajayi Christianah , Ogunro Victor Olukayode
Published: December 2023

The study determined the factors influencing health and safety programmes in selected electricity distribution companies in Southwest Nigeria. The study used a descriptive survey research design. Primary sources of data were used, and data were gathered through the administration of questionnaires. The population for the study comprised 11,621 workers from electricity companies in Southwest Nigeria. A sample size of 400 was determined using the Taro Yamane formula, and 385 were valid for usage. The sample was selected using a two-stage sampling technique. At the first stage, a purposive sampling technique was used in selecting employees who have spent at least five years in the company; at the second stage, a stratified random sampling technique was used in selecting employees using a senior, middle, and junior categorisation of workers for stratification. The results also revealed that human factors (t = 5.836, p < 0.05), management factors (t = 3.898, p < 0.05), organisational factors (t = 2.120, p < 0.05), and environmental factors (t = 2.102, p < 0.05) were the factors influencing occupational health and safety practices in the study area. The study concluded that occupational health and safety practices have the potential to reduce the rate at which accidents and injuries occur among workers, thereby improving the employees’ performance in Southwest Nigeria. The study recommended that factors that could reduce the potency of the health and safety programme should be controlled and prevented.
Decolonisation of Health in East Africa: Opinion Piece
Authors: Said Sanaa , Yongolo Nateiya , Biswaro Sanjura , Walker Richard , Kelly Clive
Published: December 2023

Access to healthcare largely depends on where you live and how much money you have. It is far from equally accessible to all. The National Health Service (NHS) was established in 1948 to address this inequality and improve access to reasonable standards of healthcare to all United Kingdom (UK) residents and to ensure that this was free at the point of delivery. The NHS has been described as ‘the envy of the world’ despite its well-documented challenges. The NHS has driven quality and consistency of clinical care within the UK for decades, and along with universities and many other organisations, it has also fostered a reputation for excellent academic research and teaching. However, the long shadow of the UK’s colonial past on health care provision elsewhere is increasingly recognised. Far from producing and sharing its ‘commonwealth’ equally with people inhabiting the countries it colonised, the UK has been accused of exploiting them in a variety of ways. This opinion piece describes and discusses the past and present influence of the UK in Tanzanian healthcare and offers some examples of practices that might facilitate improved clinical and academic outcomes for all marginalised people in the future.
Safety culture assessment in national healthcare: a triangulation approach
Authors:   Bohomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Yavorovsky O.P. , Naumenko O.M. ,   Bohomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Skaletskyi Yu.M. ,   State Institution "O.M. Marzіeiev Institute for Public Health of the NAMSU", Kyiv, Brukhno R.P. ,   Bohomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Rygan M.M. ,   National University of Ukraine on Physical Education and Sport, Kyiv, Ivanko O.M. ,   Municipal non-commercial enterprise "Kyiv city clinical hospital #1 executive body of kyiv city council (of the Kyiv CITY state administration)", Kyiv, Mykhaylenko P.M. ,   State Institution "O.M. Marzіeiev Institute for Public Health of the NAMSU", Kyiv, Zinchenko T.O. ,   Bohomolets National Medical University, Kyiv, Bankovska N.V. ,   National Cancer Institute, Kyiv
Published: December 2023

The aim of the study. To evaluate the safety culture in domestic health care using a mixed approach, that is, using a questionnaire survey, document analysis, as well as an analysis of the state of safety of patients and medical personnel. Materials and methods. The evaluation of safety culture in Ukrainian healthcare has been carried out based on the methodology of the IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency), specifically employing a triangulation approach involving questionnaire surveys, document analysis, as well as an analysis of patient and medical personnel safety conditions. Our analysis and assessment of the regulatory framework for safety provision in the hospital environment from 1994 to 2020, as well as the safety status of patients from 2003 to 2020 and medical personnel from 2002 to 2018, formed the basis of the material used in this study. Additionally, the evaluation of safety culture was conducted through a questionnaire survey involving 199 healthcare professionals from various healthcare facilities. Research results. The study revealed that safety culture in domestic healthcare facilities is at an early stage of formation and requires systematic improvement. Developing a more comprehensive methodology for assessing safety culture in the medical field is an important and promising direction for future research. The results of our study confirmed the effectiveness of employing a triangulation approach to assess the level of safety culture excellence in healthcare facilities. Conclusions. Strengthening the identified weaknesses in safety culture within the domestic medical industry can become the goal and foundation of a future strategy to create a safe hospital environment based on improving and enhancing safety culture.
Determination of the optimal cargo operations strategy of a bulk carrier vessel, with continuous ensuring its seaworthiness
Authors: Bolgov O.
Published: December 2023

The correct loading of bulk carriers is essential for their maritime safety. Inadequate loading can lead to various risks, including compromised hull strength, reduced stability and violation of the vessel's seaworthiness. Existing shipboard instruments do not allow for timely planning and real-time control of loading operations, which can lead to potential risks. The high intensity of loading operations at dry bulk terminals exacerbates the problem, as there is often insufficient time to adequately prepare and verify loading plans, increasing the risk of overloading cargo holds. To address this problem, the article proposes the development of new methods for bulk carriers cargo operations planning. These methods would optimise the distribution of bulk cargo, taking into account factors such as port facilities, ship design and nautical restrictions of the planned voyage. The aim is to formalise cargo operations in terms of a mathematical model of the vessel and to establish functional relationships between parameters that affect the seaworthiness of the vessel. By analysing the relationships between different parameters, the researchers aim to determine the best strategy for cargo operations that will ensure the continuous seaworthiness of the bulk carriers. This approach would help to improve bulk carrier’s safety and reduce the risks associated with incorrect loading. The development of such methods is seen as a promising area of scientific research that can enhance the safety of those vessels. By determining the best strategy for cargo operations based on the criterion of continuous seaworthiness, it aims to prevent the deterioration of the vessel's structural integrity and ensure that the vessel remains in a seaworthy condition throughout the loading process. The article emphasizes the need for scientific research in this area to enhance the safety of bulk carriers and proposes the development of new methods based on mathematical modeling to optimize cargo operations and maintain the vessel's seaworthiness throughout the process.
Analysis of shunting locomotive operating modes when performing traction tasks
Authors: Kostenko I. , Bilokon I. , Lysenko Y. , Chernyshenko Y. , Riabov I.
Published: December 2023

The paper considers the modes of operation of shunting diesel locomotives ČME3 when performing traction tasks at the service areas of the locomotive depot Koziatyn. A mathematical model of train movement with a ČME3 diesel locomotive has been developed, which has been used to solve a series of traction problems. It was found that the operating modes of a diesel engine are most influenced by the profile of the track section. It is determined that when moving from the Koziatyn station, the relative duration of the traction mode is 14...39% of the total movement time. When moving in the direction of the Koziatyn station, the relative duration of the traction mode is 28...90%. In the traction mode, the diesel engine operates at rated power. For the examined sections of the movement, we evaluated the diesel fuel consumption for a serial diesel locomotive, a diesel locomotive with a modern diesel engine, and a battery locomotive charged from an onboard diesel generator set. It has been determined that a diesel locomotive with a modern diesel engine consumes 18...22% less fuel than a standard diesel locomotive. In the case of a battery locomotive, fuel consumption can be either lower or higher compared to a diesel locomotive with a modern diesel engine. At the same time, the accumulation of energy in the onboard energy storage device during electrodynamic braking and its use in traction modes helps to reduce fuel consumption.