bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Analytical And Experimental Parametric Study of Texturing In Slider Bearings Under Hydrodynamic/Mixed Lubrication
Authors: Jiang Sen , Dong Guangneng , Liu Qin , Wang Jiawei , Ji Hua
Published: October 2021

An analytical approach is advantageous in providing a more generic in-depth understanding of the nature of the relationships among texture parameters. Considering the corresponding variation of film thickness, the effects of operating parameters on the optimal texture geometric parameters are clarified analytically, with a trial algorithm adopted to overcome the difficulty of direct analysis. The interaction and cooperation between the parameters are highlighted. The relationship between film thickness (or load support) and friction resistance is also analyzed, and series of pin-on-disk tests are performed to assess the results from the analytical approach. Three laser-etched rectangular textures with different sizes are tested for friction coefficients, under a range of applied loads and speeds. Both analytical and experimental results show that the optimal dimple breadth and depth decrease with the increase of load, and the optimal dimple depth increases with the increase of sliding speed.
Changes and Regeneration of the Complex Oxide RbTe1.5W0.5O6 Surface After Methyl Methacrylate Polymerization Under Visible Light Irradiation
Authors: Chasova Victoria , Fukina Diana , Boryakov Alexey , Koroleva Alexandra , Zhizhin Evgeny , Semenycheva Lyudmila , Suleimanov Evgeny
Published: October 2021

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Tracking COVID-19 urban activity changes in the Middle East from nighttime lights
Authors: Stokes Eleanor C. , Roman Miguel O.
Published: October 2021

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, governments around the world have enactedwidespread physical distancing measures to prevent and control virus transmission. Quantitative, spatially-disaggregated information about the population-scale shifts in activity that have resulted from these measures is extremely scarce, particularly for regions outside of Europe and the US. Public health institutions often must make decisions about control measures with limited region-specific data about how they will affect societal behavior, patterns of exposure, and infection outcomes. The Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite Day/Night Band (VIIRS DNB), a new-generation space-borne low-light imager, has the potential to track short-term changes in human activity, but the capability has not yet been applied to a cross-country analysis of COVID-19 responses. Here, we show initial evidence of VIIRS-DNB-detected changes to societal behavior patterns from COVID-19 control measures. We examine multiyear (2015–2020) daily time-series data derived from NASA’s Black Marble VIIRS nighttime lights product (VNP46A2) covering 584 urban areas, in 17 countries in the Middle East. Our analysis specifically focuses on the first stage of the pandemic and the Ramadan period, to understand how communities have adhered to COVID-19 measures when they were contrary to long-standing socio-cultural practices. Nighttime lights capture the onset of national curfews and lockdowns well, but also expose the inconsistent response to control measures both across and within countries. In conflict-afflicted countries, lockdowns and curfews resulted in less change in activity, highlighting the compound health and security threats that fragile states face. Our findings show how satellite measurements can aid in assessing the public response to COVID-19 physical distancing policies and the socio-cultural factors that shape their success, especially in data-sparse regions.
Optimization of a Water-saving Planting Structure in an Inland River Basin of an Arid Area Based on Multi-objective Programming: a Study for the Shiyang River Basin in China
Authors: Dou Jiao , Zhou Junju , Zhao Xi , Lei Li , Wang Lanying , Shi Wei , Zhang Dongxia , Wei Wei , Zhu Guofeng , Huang Jumei , Ma Dongfeng , Tang Haitao , Guo Zhaonan
Published: October 2021

Adjusting the agricultural planting structure is one of the important means to realize agricultural water-saving, especially in inland river basin with droughts and water shortages. In this paper, taking Shiyang River Basin in Northwest arid inland river basin as an example, on the basis of determining the crop water production function, a multi-objective optimization model was constructed, which comprehensively considered the maximization of economic benefits, the green water utilization rate and ecological benefits. The optimized planting structure was obtained by using GAMS (General Algebraic Modeling System) model solver. The results showed that: after optimization, the sown areas of wheat, tubers, vegetables and cotton all increased, of which the sown area of tubers increased the most by 8.81×104ha. The sown areas of corn, oil-bearing crops and fruits all decreased, of which the sown area of corn decreased the most by 8.03×104ha. The optimization results of planting structure were different in different counties and districts. The average contribution rate of planting structure adjustment to total water saving was 75.24%, indicating that planting structure adjustment was the key to water-saving. The water consumption of the same crop was different in different counties. Oil-bearing crops and vegetables were more suitable for planting in the lower reaches, while corn and tubers were more suitable for planting in the middle reaches.
Data Rich Architecture for Future Space Applications and Computing
Authors: Periola Ayodele , Alonge Akintunde , Ogudo Kingsley
Published: October 2021

Space applications play an important role in technological advancements. This is because satellites are useful in existing applications like earth observations and future computing (hosting space based data centres). In these applications, satellites increase the amount of space debris as they reach their end of life. Therefore, the reduction of space debris for hosting future space application is crucial. The discussion in this paper considers that increasing space debris limits the deployment of additional earth observation satellites and future space based data centres. This challenge is addressed in this paper that proposes the use of non–earth’s orbital locations for hosting earth observation satellites and siting space data centres in regions having low debris. In addition, the proposed solution aims to identify regions in space with low space debris for hosting space based data centres. The performance metric is the rate of space debris generation (RSDG). The proposed solutions presents a framework to enable the acquisition and aggregation of data for RSDG computation in a given space region. Regions in non–earth orbital locations are utilized when the RSDG in a given earth’s orbital location exceeds a pre–defined threshold. In addition, the RSDG is formulated via the adaptation of the Shannon relation utilized to formulate the channel capacity in wireless communications. The result of evaluation shows that the RDSG is reduced by 50% on average due to the use of the proposed mechanism.
Variability in Temperature Extremes Across the Tibetan Plateau and its Non-uniform Responses to Different ENSO Types
Authors: Yong Zhiwei , Wang Zegen , Xiong Junnan , Ye Chongchong , Sun Huaizhang , Wu Shaojie
Published: October 2021

The variability of extreme temperatures has an important influence on the sensitive ecosystem and human activities on the Tibetan Plateau (TP). Nevertheless, the uncertainties of different El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) effects on extreme temperatures on the TP are poorly understood. Thus, this study focuses on variations in temperature extremes across the TP during 1980–2015 based on the daily maximum temperature, and minimum temperature. Then, we quantitatively examined the different effects of different ENSO types and related large-scale atmospheric circulation variables on the changes in temperature extremes. The results show that more intense and more frequent warm extremes, less intense and less frequent cold extremes were observed from 1980 to 2015. It was observed that cold extremes exhibited significant variations. In particular, the area with a significant increase in the minimum daily minimum temperature accounted for 72% of the area of the TP. Moreover, our results also suggested that there was an asymmetric relationship between temperature extremes and different ENSO types (the Eastern Pacific (EP) and Central Pacific (CP) ENSO events). especially the significant increase of cold extreme during EP El Niño episodes (slopes of frequency and intensity of cold extremes were 6.58 and -1.03). In addition, the different ENSO types had a zonal influence on temperature extreme variability on the TP through the modulation of large-scale atmospheric circulation. The changes in the intensity and frequency of the extreme warm events on the southeastern TP were distinct during the EP E1 Niño years, while the extreme warm events during the CP E1 Niño years tended to occur more frequently on the central of TP. Furthermore, the cold extremes over the western TP have experienced decreasing trends in EP La Niña years, while the frequency of warm extremes increased. The geopotential height anomaly and cyclonic circulation anomaly in the CP La Niña years enhanced cold extremes on the northeastern TP. In conclusion, within the context of the global warming, the different ENSO types are critical factor that influences temperature extremes on the TP due to these non-uniform responses of atmospheric circulation. This study provided some insight for understanding the dynamics of regional extreme temperatures in different ENSO episodes.
Methods for Implementing Digitalization Processes in a Modern Preschool Educational Organization
Authors:   Moscow City Pedagogical University, Elena I. Sukhova , Daniil M. Semichev ,   Moscow City Pedagogical University
Published: October 2021

This article presents the ways of using digital technologies in solving the actual tasks of a preschool educational organization, namely: the use of digital tools in organizing work with children, parents (legal representatives), in solving the daily tasks of pre-school employees, in implementing management tasks, etc. The article reveals the importance of the process of digitalization of a modern educational organization as one of the key factors for the success of the implementation of the educational process, as well as in solving a wide range of issues in preschool education. The author notes a number of opportunities presented to the teams of preschool educational organizations when using digital tools. Applied research methods: theoretical-analysis of pedagogical and educational-methodical literature, articles of practical teachers and researchers in the field of education. The authors present their own tool-navigator for the implementation of the digitalization process of a modern preschool educational organization with an indication of specific tasks solved by the kindergarten teaching staff and digital tools that contribute to solving these tasks. The above – mentioned navigator tool can be useful for kindergarten teachers who directly organize the educational process with children and interact with parents (legal representatives), other specialists of preschool education when organizing their work, as well as the management staff of educational organizations. According to the results of the study, the conclusion is formulated that when using digital technologies in preschool education, a wide range of opportunities opens up for kindergarten teams that significantly update the activities of an educational organization and bring it to a completely new level, the level of mobility, efficiency and effectiveness of all processes occurring in it. The competent use of digital tools is one of the factors of the success of the activities of the kindergartens. Keywords: digitalization, digital tools of a teacher, digital educational resources, preschool educational organization, preschool education
Influence of Socio-Cultural Characteristics of the Village on the Preschool Children Development
Authors:   Transbaikal State University, Aleksandra I. Ulzytueva , Oyuna D. Ulsutueva ,   Transbaikal State University, Tatyana S. Lysikova ,   Transbaikal State University
Published: October 2021

The article actualizes the development of preschool children, taking into account the sociocultural characteristics of the village. The authors, based on the analysis of the socio-cultural space of the villages of the Aginsky Buryat District, have identified their features that affect the development of preschool children living in them, which include: a collectivist worldview, valuerational approach to the world; restraint in the manifestation of feelings; leafiness. In the article, on the basis of the implemented innovative projects in preschool educational organizations of the Aginsky Buryat District, the relationship between the socio-cultural characteristics of the village and the development of preschool children is revealed. Thus, the presented experience of preschool educational organizations for the implementation of innovative projects is aimed at the development and familiarization of preschool children with the national culture, contributes to the education of a patriotic person who knows and loves his native land, the formation of a positive national identity, a person who respects his people, his culture and traditions, as well as the wide creation of individual, family, joint projects in order to improve the quality of preschool education in kindergartens. The article provides examples of various educational practices, implemented in preschool educational organizations of the Aginsky Buryat district, in which analytical work has been carried out as well as the criteria base and a developing subject-spatial environment. The authors believe that the development and implementation of innovative projects, the creation of an open cultural and educational environment in preschool educational institutions based on the integration of folk pedagogy and modern educational practices, taking into account the socio-cultural characteristics of the village, is an urgent and promising activity in the field of preschool education related to improving its quality. Keywords: socio-cultural features, polistilistic culture, preschool children, innovative projects, introduction, national culture, preschool educational organizations
Education for Sustainable Development in an Unstable World
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Nikolay N. Marfenin , Lyudmila V. Popova ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University
Published: October 2021

The widespread simplistic understanding of the concept of sustainable development (SD) and the strategy of education for sustainable development (ESD) is poorly compatible with the increasing natural and social instability of the world. In fact, SD and ESD allow you to quickly navigate in a crisis. The core of the SD concept is a conscious refusal of a person or society from any actions that may complicate life in the future. The ESD strategy is not limited to explaining environmental problems to the population and possible ways to solve them. ESD is designed to contribute to the intellectual development of wide sections of the population – the ability to foresee the consequences of their actions, the ability to independently find solutions to any problems, the skills of advanced self-organization and self-education. ESD is based on an ‘initiative learning model’, and not on the completeness and accuracy of the reproduction of knowledge and skills, which have long been considered central to education. The ability to acquire any knowledge and skills on your own is the main thing in the initiative learning model. Searching for your own solutions, and not memorizing ready-made ones, allows you to get used to acting independently in nonstandard conditions, which is necessary in an unstable world. The transition to the initiative learning has long been brew, The transition to the initiative learning model (ILE) has long been brew and even partially taking place, but too slowly. Initiative learning takes longer than reproductive learning, so it is difficult to fully implement it without changing traditional education. This is the main reason for the failure of attempts to introduce initiative learning model over the centuries. According to the initiative learning model, which is the basis of ESD, education is becoming continuous and lifelong. At the same time, the reduction in the number of compulsory educational sections occurs with the simultaneous expansion of curricula and the freedom of students to choose courses, sections and tasks that they study in depth. The assimilation of knowledge becomes mosaic, but this deficiency is fully compensated by the depth of the acquired knowledge and the desire to independently fill their gaps.
Treatment of mandibular second molar impaction in a patient with metal hypersensitivity
Authors: Takehana Yoshie , Miyauchi Yasunori , Kageyama Toru
Published: October 2021

It is widely accepted that the prevalence of metal hypersensitivity is increasing. Furthermore, the incidence of unerupted mandibular second molars is 2.3%, of which 0.2% is judged to be a result of impaction. While it is becoming more common to treat impacted mandibular second molars in daily clinical practice, metal hypersensitive patients presenting with unerupted molars are less frequently encountered. There have been no previous reports of patients who required mandibular molar traction and who also suffered from metal hypersensitivity. Therefore, this is the first case report to describe the long-term stability of mandibular second molar dis-impaction, leading to high level of patient satisfaction.
Evaluating the Impact of a Trait for Increased Specific Leaf Area on Wheat Yields Using a Crop Simulation Model
Authors: Asseng Senthold , Turner Neil C. , Botwright Tina , Condon Anthony G.
Published: October 2021

Early vigorous growth (also called early vigor) has been suggested as a characteristic to increase yields of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in rainfed environments. Breeders have tried to incorporate early vigor by selecting for increased specific leaf area (SLA). A crop simulation model (APSIM‐Nwheat) was used to evaluate the role of SLA on potential yield. Increased early vigor was simulated by increasing the SLA trait in the model. Grain yields were simulated for the mediterranean climate of Western Australia with winter‐dominant rainfall, for New South Wales with evenly distributed rainfall, and for Queensland with a subtropical climate with summer‐dominant rainfall. Independent, multiseason simulations were performed with historical weather records. The largest average yield increase with greater SLA was 15% on the sandy soil in Western Australia but only with additional N inputs. In the low‐rainfall region of Western Australia, with low N input, a yield increase of up to 5% was achieved on the sandy soil while yield responses were negative on the clay soil. With increased N application, the SLA trait increased yields by up to 7% on the clay soils in this region. The increased SLA trait failed to increase yields and even decreased yields on average in New South Wales and in Queensland, except in above‐average rainfall seasons and only at high N application. Crop management, in particular crop nutrition, is an important factor determining yield expression of new physiological traits and needs to be considered when evaluating traits.
Potassium Placement Effects on Yield and Seed Composition of No‐Till Soybean Seeded in Alternate Row Widths
Authors: Yin Xinhua , Vyn Tony J.
Published: October 2021

Optimum K fertilizer placement for no‐till soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] yield and quality in wide‐row production systems may not be appropriate for narrow‐row systems. Potassium fertilizer placement and row width effects on no‐till soybean were evaluated from 1998 through 2000 on a continuous no‐till soil with low, but stratified, soil‐test K. Four K fertilizer placements of surface broadcast, 76‐cm band width, 38‐cm band width, and zero K were compared at a single rate of 100 kg K ha−1 for soybean planted in 76‐, 38‐, and 19‐cm row widths. Broadcast K application significantly increased leaf K concentrations in all 3 yr. Band placement increased soybean leaf K more than surface broadcast in 2 of 3 yr. Band placement increased yield 10 to 15% in 76‐ and 38‐cm rows, compared with zero K, while seed yield was not significantly improved by surface broadcasting in any row‐width system. Within the 19‐ and 38‐cm row width systems, soybean rows positioned midway between the K fertilizer bands had lower K uptake and productivity than soybean rows seeded above the K bands. Banded K also increased seed K concentrations and accumulation more than broadcast application in 76‐ and 38‐cm row widths. Seed oil concentrations were increased by band placement, and were often positively correlated with leaf K, seed K, and seed yield. Potassium banding was superior to surface broadcasting for plant K nutrition, yield, and seed oil concentrations in both wide and intermediate row‐width systems, but not in narrow‐row soybean production, on low soil‐test K fields.
TopCross High Oil Corn Production
Authors: Thomison P. R. , Geyer A. B. , Lotz L. D. , Siegrist H. J. , Dobbels T. L.
Published: October 2021

High oil corn (Zea mays L.) enhances the feed rations of livestock and poultry and reduces the need for expensive dietary supplements. The TopCross1 grain production system, which involves use of a blend (TC Blend) of two types of corn, is rapidly gaining popularity as the preferred method of producing high oil corn (HOC). Field experiments and on‐farm studies were performed in 1995 to 1999 across a range of production environments in Ohio to compare select grain quality attributes of HOC TC Blends with their conventional counterparts (check hybrids). Oil levels in grain were 31 g kg−1 higher in TC Blends compared with check hybrids averaged across experiments and on‐farm tests. Drought conditions and late plantings had little or no effect on the differences in oil levels between TC Blends and check hybrids. Protein levels were generally similar for TC Blends and check hybrids, but lysine content was 20% greater in grain of TC Blends. Metabolizable energy levels in grain averaged 130 kcal kg−1 more in TC Blends compared with check hybrids. Starch content was five percent less in TC Blends compared with checks. The fatty acid composition of grain from TC Blends was higher for stearic acid (2.5 vs. 2.0%) and oleic acid (34.6 vs. 25.9%), but lower for linoleic acid (49.5 vs. 58.8%) and linolenic (1.0 vs. 1.3%), compared with check hybrids. Results of this study demonstrate that TC Blends can produce grain with consistently higher nutritional levels than conventional corn hybrids under variable growing conditions.
Correcting Iron Deficiency in Corn with Seed Row–Applied Iron Sulfate
Authors: Godsey Chad B. , Schmidt John P. , Schlegel Alan J. , Taylor Randal K. , Thompson Curtis R. , Gehl Ronald J.
Published: October 2021

Corn (Zea mays L.) grown on calcareous, high‐pH soils is susceptible to Fe deficiency, which can reduce grain yield by as much as 20%. The objective of this study was to evaluate several treatments of FeSO4 that could be used with precision‐farming technologies to alleviate Fe deficiency in irrigated corn. Three sites in 1999 and four in 2000 were selected (based on a history of Fe deficiency) for small‐plot (3 by 12.2 m) studies in western Kansas. In 1999, five treatments, including four rates of FeSO4·H2O (0–81 kg ha−1 product) applied in the seed row and one foliar treatment (chelated Fe), were evaluated. In 2000, two additional treatments, CaSO4·2H2O (85 kg ha−1 product) and liquid FeSO4·7H2O (91 kg ha−1 product) applied in the seed row, were included. Grain yield increased linearly with increasing rates of FeSO4·H2O at four of seven site‐years, increasing 0.02 Mg ha−1 for each kilogram per hectare of FeSO4·H2O applied. Based on yield responses observed in this study, 81 kg ha−1 FeSO4·H2O was the most consistent treatment for correcting Fe deficiency in corn. If the average yield response obtained in this study can be achieved on 15% of an individual cornfield, the expected return would be $3.00 ha−1 for the entire field. Current precision‐farming technologies allow application of FeSO4·H2O only to areas susceptible to Fe deficiency. Employing these technologies provides a practical solution to the spatial heterogeneity of Fe deficiency in irrigated corn and increases the probability of crop response to the fertilizer application.
The effect of a new wave of COVID-19 on the stock market performance: Evidence from the twenty JSE listed companies in South Africa
Authors: Wilfred Akinola Gbenga , Sunday Anderu Keji , Mbonigaba Josue
Published: October 2021

The lockdown shocks resulting from the global pandemic of COVID-19 in March 2020 brought untold economic imbalance to the financial sector in South Africa. The government’s proactive alternative measure of control to the new wave of COVID-19 must be investigated to offer policy suggestions for future economic and financial planning. Consequently, this study investigated the impact of the new wave of COVID-19 on the financial market with a special interest in the twenty JSE listed companies in South Africa. To enhance the quality in the frequency of study, daily panel data from November 2020 to January 2021 were sourced from S&P Capital IQ and Google online. The impact of COVID-19 was investigated alongside other variables that can influence the return of the stock markets on twenty JSE listed companies. The variables under investigation are daily exchange rate (dollar terms), dividend-adjusted share pricing, daily COVID-19 infection rate. Both robust descriptive and fixed effects time-variant analyses were adopted as the estimating techniques. The study provided empirical evidence that there is a direct but slow link between the daily incidence of infectious COVID-19 and returns on the stock market as key variables. This positive relationship indicates that both COVID-19 and financial activities could co-habit together to enhance greater return on the stock in South Africa. Hence, lockdown may not be most appropriate to the national economy of South Africa.
Dynamics of tax revenues in the budget of Ukraine and their forecast during the crisis period
Authors: Skorba Oleh , Pasko Tetyana , Babenko-Levada Viktoriia , Tereshchenko Tetiana
Published: October 2021

It is extremely important for the budget process to obtain accurate forecasts of potential tax revenues, especially in periods of disruption and crisis. The paper is devoted to the study of dynamics of tax revenues’ volumes in the budget of Ukraine and the forecast of their values during the crisis.The dynamics of tax revenues in the Consolidated Budget of Ukraine, studied by using randomized R|S-analysis, fractal and probabilistic analyses as well as entropy calculation based on the data on monthly tax revenues for the period 2011–2021, is anti-persistent, fractal-like and unpredictable based on parametric dependencies, simple and complex trends. The topological dimension of the lines of dynamics for tax revenues of all types of taxes is much higher than 1, and the Hirst index indicates either fractal similarity of dynamics or its chaos. The map of dissipation periods of tax revenues in Ukraine, determined on the basis of entropy calculation and periods of negative entropy production according to the dynamics of tax revenues, coincided with the periods of maximum reduction in their volumes. The most crisis periods in the formation of tax revenues are 2019–2020, for certain types of taxes – 2016–2020, but the dissipation of tax revenues is projected for 2021–2022.The comparison of the level of fractal similarity in dynamics of the volume of tax revenues and peculiarities of the dynamics of entropy and entropy production, allowed to substantiate the division of taxes into nine types, of which five were found in Ukraine.
Effect of strategic leadership capabilities on the development of organizational citizenship behavior
Authors: Zaheenah Chummun Bibi , Nleya Lizanani
Published: October 2021

Committed employees always demonstrate their organizational citizenship behavior by offering services beyond their leaders’ expectations. They achieve their goals under the leadership of executives with the capabilities to guide the organization to the future. This study examines the impact of strategic leadership capabilities on organizational citizenship behavior in companies offering mobile services in Zimbabwe. To collect data, a survey research method is employed using a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire. Ninety-four questionnaires were randomly distributed to employees of three mobile service providers and a sector regulator in Harare province, Zimbabwe. Eighty-seven questionnaires were completed and returned. Data analysis follows a multiple regression method using the IBM SPSS v27 software to test hypotheses. The study also employs the Sobel test to investigate the mediation effect of organizational commitment on organizational citizenship behavior. Regression model results show that strategic leadership capabilities have a significant effect on organizational citizenship behavior. They further have a statistically significant effect on organizational citizenship behavior through organizational commitment. The results suggest that strategic leaders in the mobile phone sector in Zimbabwe should develop and strengthen strategic leadership capabilities to drive the commitment of their employees to encourage the development of organizational citizenship behavior. Committed employees will offer their services beyond their call of duty.
A parsimonious post-processor for uncertainty evaluation of ensemble precipitation forecasts: an application to quantitative precipitation forecasts for civil protection purposes
Authors: Biondi Daniela , Todini Ezio , Corina Angela
Published: October 2021

In this study, we present a post-processing technique designed to assess conditional predictive uncertainty for quantitative precipitation forecasts (QPFs) that extends to the multivariate predictor case. The theoretical foundation of the mixed binary-continuous precipitation process representation for a single predictor is coupled with the univariate version of the model conditional processor (MCP) that allows considering ensemble forecasts while maintaining a parsimonious approach. The experiment set-up is based on a weather vigilance zone (WVZ) of the national warning system in southern Italy and the relative QPFs issued by the Italian Civil Protection Department. Various aspects of the quality of the probabilistic forecast from the uncertainty processor were evaluated. The results indicate that post-processed forecasts can provide improved performances in terms of accuracy and reliability, tend to correct bias and are generally less under-dispersive than raw forecasts for the investigated area. Furthermore, we explored the possibility of issuing warnings employing the full predictive distribution and moving to the use of probabilistic thresholds here identified through a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Considering the probability of exceeding a critical rainfall value allowed successful discrimination between events and non-events for critical precipitation occurrences and proved to be a valuable approach to decision-makers and information providers.
Review of hydro-economic models (HEMs) which focus on transboundary river water sharing disputes
Authors: Hossen M. A. , Connor J. , Ahammed F.
Published: October 2021

Hydro-economic models (HEMs) are powerful tools to analyze water scarcity, drought, and water management problems. Though several HEMs reviews have been conducted in the recent past, none of them focused on the management of transboundary river water disputes, benefit sharing, or trade-offs. Therefore, this review explored how HEMs can suggest mitigating water sharing disputes on transboundary rivers. Though more than 300 HEMs have been developed worldwide, very few focused on transboundary river water disputes. After vigorous screening at Google Scholar, only 25 articles were found which focused on transboundary river water disputes. Most HEMs that were reviewed proposed to share benefits such as sharing hydropower produced from the river, reallocating water from low-value agriculture to high-value agriculture or managed operation of the dam, or other monetary compensation. But no study assessed non-water sector benefit sharing such as trade or transit. Most HEMs focused on irrigation and hydropower which are benefits from the river and very few studies focused on fisheries, environment, and wetland which are benefits to the river. International rivers can act as a catalyst among the riparian countries and promote cooperation in trade, commerce, exchange of technologies, and other fields. HEMs can play an important role in this regard. It is to be mentioned that HEMs cannot resolve water conflicts in a shared basin, they only can propose for the options of solution.
Detection of abrupt shift and non-parametric analyses of trends in runoff time series in the Dez river basin
Authors: Gholami Hooman , Moradi Yahya , Lotfirad Morteza , Gandomi Mohammad Amin , Bazgir Nooredin , Shokrian Hajibehzad Manoochehr
Published: October 2021

The present study aims to investigate the homogeneity of runoff time series and also to review the existence of trends in Tale Zang hydrometric station (the hydrometric station at the inflow into the Dez reservoir) runoff, using 61 years (1956–2016) daily recorded data. The Pettit test, which is a common method in investigating the homogeneity of time series, was used to identify change points. Both Mann-Kendall and auto-correlated Mann-Kendall tests were applied to analyze the existence or non-existence of trends in each annual, seasonal, and monthly time series observed in a runoff. In time series, significant trends at the 95% level of confidence were recognized, upper and lower limit values were presented for Sen's slope and it was tested for the increasing or decreasing trends in nature. Based on the results of this study, the significant change point at the 95% level of confidence was recognized in the annual, spring, summer, autumn, March, May, June, July, August, September, and October data sets in 1997,1997, 1999, 1997, 1999, 1999, 1999, 1997, 2000, 2007 and 2008, respectively. Analyzing the existence of a trend at the 95% level of confidence indicated that in spring, and in March, September, and October, for both Mann-Kendall and auto-correlated Mann-Kendall tests, the trend is significant and additive until the change point.
Right Atrial Thrombus in a Patient of Rheumatic Heart Disease with Severe
Mitral Regurgitation: A Rare Association
Authors: Rohila Amit K. , Kumar Saurabh , Khichar Satyendra , Meena Durga S. , Pandit Sonu K.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Right atrial thrombus is a rare phenomenon, and its incidence is not well-
defined. It usually occurs in the presence of predisposing factors like tricuspid stenosis or following
central venous catheterization. Isolated right atrial thrombus without any predisposing factors
occurs rarely.

Case Presentation:

We herein report a 30-year-old male patient, a known case of rheumatic heart
disease with mitral regurgitation, presented with severe breathlessness and orthopnea. He was diagnosed
with acute pulmonary oedema with biventricular dysfunction and congestive symptoms. On
transthoracic 2D echocardiography, he was found to have severe mitral and severe tricuspid regurgitation.
All cardiac chambers were dilated, and an incidental finding of right atrial thrombus was
noted. Patient The patient was managed conservatively, but he succumbed to his worsening heart
failure.

Conclusion:

Treating physicians should be aware of the possibility of right atrial thrombus in rheumatic
mitral valve disease because of its clinical implications, like life life-threatening pulmonary
embolization and need of surgical management.
Data Visualization for Chronic Neurological and Mental Health Condition Self-management: Systematic Review of User Perspectives
Authors: Polhemus Ashley , Novak Jan , Majid Shazmin , Simblett Sara , Morris Daniel , Bruce Stuart , Burke Patrick , Dockendorf Marissa F , Temesi Gergely , Wykes Til
Published: October 2021

Background

Remote measurement technologies (RMT) such as mobile health devices and apps are increasingly used by those living with chronic neurological and mental health conditions. RMT enables real-world data collection and regular feedback, providing users with insights about their own conditions. Data visualizations are an integral part of RMT, although little is known about visualization design preferences from the perspectives of those living with chronic conditions.

Objective

The aim of this review was to explore the experiences and preferences of individuals with chronic neurological and mental health conditions on data visualizations derived from RMT to manage health.

Methods

In this systematic review, we searched peer-reviewed literature and conference proceedings (PubMed, IEEE Xplore, EMBASE, Web of Science, Association for Computing Machinery Computer-Human Interface proceedings, and the Cochrane Library) for original papers published between January 2007 and September 2021 that reported perspectives on data visualization of people living with chronic neurological and mental health conditions. Two reviewers independently screened each abstract and full-text article, with disagreements resolved through discussion. Studies were critically appraised, and extracted data underwent thematic synthesis.

Results

We identified 35 eligible publications from 31 studies representing 12 conditions. Coded data coalesced into 3 themes: desire for data visualization, impact of visualizations on condition management, and visualization design considerations. Data visualizations were viewed as an integral part of users’ experiences with RMT, impacting satisfaction and engagement. However, user preferences were diverse and often conflicting both between and within conditions.

Conclusions

When used effectively, data visualizations are valuable, engaging components of RMT. They can provide structure and insight, allowing individuals to manage their own health more effectively. However, visualizations are not “one-size-fits-all,” and it is important to engage with potential users during visualization design to understand when, how, and with whom the visualizations will be used to manage health.
Culture-Specific Observations in a Saudi Arabian Digital Home Health Care Program: Focus Group Discussions With Patients and Their Caregivers
Authors: Alodhayani Abdulaziz A , Hassounah Marwah Mazen , Qadri Fatima R , Abouammoh Noura A , Ahmed Zakiuddin , Aldahmash Abdullah M
Published: October 2021

Background

There is growing evidence of the need to consider cultural factors in the design and implementation of digital health interventions. However, there is still inadequate knowledge pertaining to the aspects of the Saudi Arabian culture that need to be considered in the design and implementation of digital health programs, especially in the context of home health care services for patients who are chronically and terminally ill.

Objective

This study aims to explore the specific cultural factors related to patients and their caregivers from the perspective of physicians, nurses, and trainers that have influenced the pilot implementation of Remotely Accessible Healthcare At Home, a connected health program in the Home Health Care department at King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A qualitative study design was adopted to conduct a focus group discussion in July 2019 using a semistructured interview guide with 3 female and 4 male participants working as nurses, family physicians, and information technologists. Qualitative data obtained were analyzed using a thematic framework analysis.

Results

A total of 2 categories emerged from the focus group discussion that influenced the experiences of digital health program intervention: first, culture-related factors including language and communication, cultural views on using cameras during consultation, nonadherence to web-based consultations, and family role and commitment and second, caregiver characteristics in telemedicine that includes their skills and education and electronic literacy. Participants of this study revealed that indirect contact with patients and their family members may work as a barrier to proper communication through the Remotely Accessible Healthcare At Home program.

Conclusions

We recommend exploring the use of interpreters in digital health, creating awareness among the local population regarding privacy in digital health, and actively involving direct family members with the health care providers.
Diagnosis and treatment of primary hyperparathyroidism (20 years of own experience and literature review)
Authors: Karachentsev Yu.I. , Sazonov M.E. , Khaziev V.V. , Dubovik V.N. , Goncharova O.A. , Gopkalova I.V.
Published: October 2021

Background. Currently, primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT) is the third most common endocrine disease after thyroid gland pathology and diabetes mellitus. Untimely diagnosis leads to a severe course of the disease with the development of disabling deformations — osteoporotic fractures, recurrent stone formation in the urinary tract, gastrointestinal bleeding, etc., as well as to an increased risk of premature death. The purpose of the study is to assess the dynamics of detection of thyroid disease (thyroid) for the period 2000–2019. Materials and methods. Since 2000, based on the surgical department of the clinic of the State Institution “V. Danilevsky Institute for Endocrine Pathology Problems of the National Academy of Medical Sciences of Ukraine”, 205 surgeries have been carried out for pHPT (in 188 women and 17 men: 91.7 and 8.3 %). Results. Since 2008, there has been a steady increase in the number of cases. The incidence of pHPT in women increases with age and becomes significantly higher at the age of 50–69 years. At the same time, the gap between women and men is widening, the reason for which needs to be studied. The proportional ratio of the number of patients with asymptomatic and clinically pronounced course persists for 20 years and is approximately 2 : 1. In countries where blood calcium screening has been introduced, the proportion of asymptomatic forms reaches 80 %. The obtained data confirm the fact of untimely diagnosis of pHPT in Ukraine, which requires the introduction of large-scale population screening in the form of a questionnaire survey and study of serum calcium. Conclusions. A positive contribution to the timely detection of pHPT can be made by activating the work of postgraduate (continuous) education institutions in this direction, primarily the departments of endocrinology based on endocrinological clinics with surgical departments.
Assessment of factors influencing consultations after bariatric surgery
Authors: Barradas-Lagunes Marisol , Bravo-De Avila Paola , Colorado-Subizar Raquel , De Uriarte-Llorente Maripi , Gamboa-Huerta Rosario , Jesus Romero Rey
Published: October 2021

Background. Bariatric surgery programs are recognized as the best alternative for patients with severe obesity. Many studies conclude that bariatric surgery programs that include these pre- and postoperative consultations (PPC) by the multidisciplinary team have better overall outcome. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate factors that affect PPC during a bariatric surgery program in Mexico and assess the possible impact on the patients’ post-operative course. Materials and methods. In accordance with the the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders guidelines, all patients included were between 18 and 65 age when bariatric surgery was performed. Preoperative assessment of patient eligibility for bariatric surgery included consultation with the main surgeon, a dietician, an internist, and a psychologist. If non-eligible cases were detected, these issues were addressed and fully treated before surgery was considered. Results. A total of 110 patients were included in this study. Eighty-one (74 %) patients were women and 29 (26 %) were men. We observed that women had significantly more consultation attendance than men (54.3 % versus 24.1 %, p = 0.005). Patients with higher initial BMI had significantly more consultation attendance than those with lower BMI (42.9 kg/m2 versus 38.6 kg/m2, p = 0.007). When consultation attendance was evaluated according to occupation, teaching workers had significantly (p = 0.003) more consultation attendance (71.4 %) while the students group had less consultation attendance (0). Patients who had higher percentage of excess of weight loss (EWL) had significantly more general, medical, nutritional and psychological consultation attendance than those with lower percentage of EWL (p = 0.04, p = 0.032, p = 0.039 and p < 0.001). Conclusions. Consultation attendance with the multidisciplinary team is associated with better outcomes after bariatric surgery. “Nonattending” patients are at least partly responsible for any suboptimal results observed. Although this is certainly a factor for some patients, many other non-dependent reasons, such as cultural, social, economic or motivational reasons can also affect the loss of consultations in other patients.
Vitamin D dosage
Authors: Kaminsky O.V.
Published: October 2021

Despite its historical name, vitamin D is not a vitamin at all but a hormone that, when activated, is a metabolically active steroid fat-soluble hormone that acts on cellular receptors. Vitamin D hormone is synthesized endogenously and then metabolized in the body, provi-ding that there are the necessary precursors and some factors — the effects of ultraviolet light on the skin. At the same time, vitamins themselves are nutrients, co-factors of biochemical reactions that are not synthesized in the body and cannot interact with receptors, consumed with food, so the hormone D is not a vitamin. Disputes about its use and dosage continue throughout the study period of vitamin D hormone. Most reputable experts in Europe and the USA support the need to replenish and maintain a normal level of vitamin D, believing it to be completely safe and useful. In 2011, the US Endocrine Society issued clinical practice guidelines for vitamin D, indicating that the desired serum concentration of 25(OH)D is > 75 nmol/l (> 30 ng/ml) to achieve the maximum effect of this vitamin on calcium metabolism, bone, and muscle metabolism. According to them, for a consistent increase in serum 25(OH)D above 75 nmol/l (30 ng/ml), adults may require at least 1,500-2,000 IU/day of additional vitamin D, at least 1,000 IU/day in children and adolescents. The most common form of thyroid dysfunction is secondary hyperparathyroidism, which develops due to vitamin D defect/deficiency (80–90 %). Non-optimal serum concentrations of 25(OH)D lead to secondary hyperparathyroidism, potentially leading to decreased bone mineralization and, ultimately, to an increased risk of osteopenia, osteoporosis and fractures, cardiac arrhythmia, and increased blood pressure. Vitamin D is most commonly used at a star-ting dose of 5,000 IU daily for 2–3 months, then transferring patients to maintenance doses of 2,000–4,000 IU/day daily that are consi-dered safe. However, it should be noted that some patients will need constant administration of 5,000 IU of vitamin D per day for a long time (years) to maintain the target optimal level of 25(OH)D in the blood, especially in patients with normocalcemic forms of secondary hyperparathyroidism.