bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal functional outcomes and late effects of radiation following treatment of nasopharyngeal carcinoma: Secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study
Authors: Gill Gia , Lane Ciaran , Myers Candace , Kerr Evan D. , Lambert Pascal , Cooke Andrew , Kerr Paul D.
Published: November 2022

Background

The study objectives were: provide longitudinal data on upper aerodigestive tract function and late complications following IMRT for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and elucidate factors that might predict a worse outcome. The hypotheses were: (1) Despite advances such as IMRT, radiation will cause significant functional decline and late complications that often progress or arise years after treatment. (2) Larger radiation volume will be associated with poorer outcomes.

Methods

Longitudinal, observational cohort study of nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients with retrospective analysis of prospectively collected, population-based data. Late sequelae and validated measures of overall performance, speech, and swallowing were documented pre-treatment and 3,6,12, 24, 36 and ≥ 60-months post-treatment.

Results

Forty-two patients treated curatively with radiation (N = 9) or chemoradiation (N = 33) were followed for a median 74 months. Functional outcomes showed an initial nadir at 3 months associated with acute effects of treatment, followed by initial recovery. There was subsequent functional decline years post-treatment with advancing dysphagia/aspiration, trismus, muscle spasm, and hypoglossal nerve palsy. Univariable regression analysis revealed that increasing high-dose radiation volumes (PTV 70 Gy) were associated with increased likelihood of less than solid diet (Performance Status Scale (PSS)—Normalcy of Diet score < 50; p = 0.04), and reduced PSS—Understandability of Speech ( p = 0.005). The probability of poor outcome increased with time. Eleven percent of patients were tube feed dependent at ≥ 5 years.

Conclusions

Despite improvements in radiation delivery, late effects of radiation remain common. Higher radiation volumes are associated with poorer outcomes that worsen over time.

Graphical Abstract
Patients’ acceptance of placebo antibiotics in Japan: a prescription for antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Ito Atsushi , Watanabe Yuichi , Okumura Takashi
Published: November 2022

Background

The generalized use of antibiotics has led to the emergence of bacteria which are resistant to antimicrobial agents. This stems in part from the patient's tendencies to seek antibiotics for diseases when not necessary. Hence, this article investigated patient acceptance of prescribing placebos as a substitute for unnecessary antibiotics in Japan, where physicians are under severe time constraints and are unable to offer explanations and persuade patients who demand unnecessary antibiotics prescription.

Methods

A web-based questionnaire was administered to assess patients’ acceptance of the placebo treatment under informed consent. One thousand participants representing all genders and age-class were randomly selected from the online panel of a web-survey company.

Results

The results showed that 67.9% of the participants were “satisfied” to receive such treatments, whereas 20.6% indicated acceptance of the prescription but without satisfaction. In total, 88.5% of the participants accepted the prescription of placebo, a result consistent with that of a preceding study on placebo treatments conducted in the United States. In the survey, tone of persuasion did not affect the patients’ attitudes; however, patients who were loyal to their physicians exhibited lower refusal rates.

Conclusion

The survey results showed that the prescription of “ethical placebos” could be an acceptable option for the patients in Japan. For ethical concerns, an additional literature survey was conducted and the result suggested that such a radical treatment option could be justified, provided that the prescription benefits patients and informed consent is properly obtained. Albeit it is impractical to use, because of ethical and operational concerns, it would be worth further investigation to ensure diversity in the countermeasures for antimicrobial resistance, a major public health threat nowadays.
The management of allergic rhinitis by pharmacists in public services: a proposed PhaRmacISt-led Education Model (AR-PRISE)
Authors: Chew Chii-Chii , Chang Chee-Tao , Lim Xin-Jie , Yong Wai-Yin , George Doris , Letchumanan Pathma , Rajan Philip , Chong Chee Ping
Published: November 2022

Allergic rhinitis has been identified as a major respiratory disease that places a significant burden on patients and the healthcare system. Nevertheless, the management of allergic rhinitis is challenging for both patients and practitioners. Pharmacists have been recognised as strategic in providing advice for allergic avoidance, disease information, and pharmacological care for allergic rhinitis management. This role has been underutilised in the public health service sector in Malaysia due to variation in practice, regulation, and health system structures when compared to the international guidelines. This article proposed a PhaRmacISt-led Education Model (AR-PRISE) that includes explicit patient education materials and an algorithm for structured counselling by pharmacists in the management of patients with allergic rhinitis.
The use of augmented reality in a gamified CLIL lesson and students’ achievements and attitudes: a quasi-experimental study
Authors: Çelik Ferdi , Yangın Ersanlı Ceylan
Published: November 2022

The advancement of technology has provided new avenues for English language teachers to assist students in improving their language learning processes. Augmented reality is an emerging technology that can implement virtual objects into the physical learning environment. This quantitative study aimed to determine the impact of employing augmented reality in a CLIL lesson. The study also looks at EFL learners’ attitudes about the use of AR. For this purpose, 76 high school students (38 males and 38 females) have taken part in this study. The results showed that using an AR-based mobile application improved the language achievements of the learners. The learners who used AR have gathered better results in the CLIL lesson. Additionally, the learners had positive attitudes towards the use of augmented reality. They found it satisfying and engaging and were willing to use it in the future again. Based on the study findings, EFL teachers are encouraged to use AR in their classes to teach both content and the language.
NAVIGATOR: an Italian regional imaging biobank to promote precision medicine for oncologic patients
Authors: Borgheresi Rita , Barucci Andrea , Colantonio Sara , Aghakhanyan Gayane , Assante Massimiliano , Bertelli Elena , Carlini Emanuele , Carpi Roberto , Caudai Claudia , Cavallero Diletta , Cioni Dania , Cirillo Roberto , Colcelli Valentina , Dell’Amico Andrea , Di Gangi Domnico , Erba Paola Anna , Faggioni Lorenzo , Falaschi Zeno , Gabelloni Michela , Gini Rosa , Lelii Lucio , Liò Pietro , Lorito Antonio , Lucarini Silvia , Manghi Paolo , Mangiacrapa Francesco , Marzi Chiara , Mazzei Maria Antonietta , Mercatelli Laura , Mirabile Antonella , Mungai Francesco , Miele Vittorio , Olmastroni Maristella , Pagano Pasquale , Paiar Fabiola , Panichi Giancarlo , Pascali Maria Antonietta , Pasquinelli Filippo , Shortrede Jorge Eduardo , Tumminello Lorenzo , Volterrani Luca , Neri Emanuele ,   on behalf of the NAVIGATOR Consortium Group
Published: November 2022

NAVIGATOR is an Italian regional project boosting precision medicine in oncology with the aim of making it more predictive, preventive, and personalised by advancing translational research based on quantitative imaging and integrative omics analyses. The project’s goal is to develop an open imaging biobank for the collection and preservation of a large amount of standardised imaging multimodal datasets, including computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography data, together with the corresponding patient-related and omics-related relevant information extracted from regional healthcare services using an adapted privacy-preserving model. The project is based on an open-source imaging biobank and an open-science oriented virtual research environment (VRE). Available integrative omics and multi-imaging data of three use cases (prostate cancer, rectal cancer, and gastric cancer) will be collected. All data confined in NAVIGATOR (i.e., standard and novel imaging biomarkers, non-imaging data, health agency data) will be used to create a digital patient model, to support the reliable prediction of the disease phenotype and risk stratification. The VRE that relies on a well-established infrastructure, called D4Science.org, will further provide a multiset infrastructure for processing the integrative omics data, extracting specific radiomic signatures, and for identification and testing of novel imaging biomarkers through big data analytics and artificial intelligence.
Economics and economists during the COVID-19 pandemic: a personal view
Authors: Bütler Monika
Published: November 2022

As was true for many others, my professional life was turned upside down in the early days of the pandemic. The crisis touched almost every field in economics: international supply chains broke down, economic activity was heavily constrained either by non-pharmaceutical measures to fight the pandemic or by voluntary action, and the labour market experienced unprecedented levels of short-time work and huge (temporary) lay-offs. Governments struggled to provide cash and find ways to compensate affected people and businesses. Financial markets tumbled and monetary policy faced new challenges on top of an already tense situation.
Neuroradiological findings in a young patient bearing a new single mitochondrial gene mutation (case report)
Authors: La Montanara Paolo , Albergo Annamaria , Castellana Roberto , Fiorentini Concetta , Romano Caterina , Rossiello Annalisa , Steinruecke Moritz , Vella Giuseppe
Published: November 2022

Background

We present the clinical, MRI and CT findings in a case of a new mitochondrial genome mutation (tRNA arginine gene), characterized by brain calcifications which are indicative of Kearns–Sayre syndrome (KSS). Some radiological features resembled those of Fahr’s disease (affecting the PDGFRB gene).

Case presentation

A 36-year-old male presented some typical clinical features of KSS, including onset before 20 years of age, pigmentary retinopathy, progressive external ophthalmoplegia and ptosis. However, the hallmark radiological finding of diffuse calcifications in the nuclear ganglia resembles some cases related to the PDGRFB mutation. Genetic investigation revealed a new mutation in the mitochondrial tRNA-arginine gene.

Conclusions

Brain calcifications are a common feature of mitochondrial diseases, but little is known about their pathophysiology. Here, we describe radiological similarities between a new mitochondrial DNA mutation and other genetic conditions, which are related to Fahr’s disease. These similarities could provide new insights into putative genotype–phenotype correlations.
Study of thymus volume and density in COVID-19 patients: Is there a correlation in terms of pulmonary CT severity score?
Authors: Alicioglu Banu , Bayav Murat
Published: November 2022

Background

Thymus has a pivotal role in combating infectious diseases. Although some reviews have been published about its critical role in COVID-19, there is not enough research. In this study, the size and density of thymus related to computed tomography pulmonary severity score (CT-SS) were researched.

Results

A total of 196 patients were analyzed with a mean age of 52.54 ± 18.78 years; 97 (49.5%) of them were RT-PCR (−) and 99 (50.5%) were RT-PCR (+). Within RT-PCR (+) group 62 (62.6%) of them had pneumonia with a mean CT-SS of 9.37 ± 8.83; within RT-PCR (−) group 20 (20.6%) of them had pneumonia with the mean CT-SS of 12.00 ± 10.18. CT-SS had moderate negative correlation with thymus volume and thymus maximum diameter in patients having nodular-type thymus (R = −0.591, P = 0.02; R = −0.515, P = 0.049, respectively). Homogenous fat infiltration was more commonly seen in RT-PCR (−) group while reticular and nodular types were commonly seen in RT-PCR (+) group (p = 0.015). The mean volume and maximum diameter of thymus were statistically significantly higher in RT-PCR (+) group (p = 0.027 and p = 0.048, respectively).

Conclusion

This study showed the higher thymic volume and maximum diameter and more involution in COVID-19 patients. CT-SS had a moderate negative correlation with thymus volume and thymus maximum diameter. Pneumonia was more frequent in COVID patients, but mean CT-SS of the non-COVID cases was higher.
A reliable image compression algorithm based on block luminance adopting deep learning for video surveillance application
Authors: Khairy Mayada , Al-Makhlasawy Rasha M.
Published: November 2022

Video surveillance systems are essential as other application domain. Handling efficient and reliable for underground projects as well surveillance image is so significant to ensure security and safety. The wireless channels are efficient as data transferring media. On the other hand, the bandwidth may be limited for some environmental conditions. Hence, the image compression algorithm is very important to be conducted and applied to save the transmission bandwidth. This paper presents an image compression algorithm for video surveillance. The method is based on the concept of luminance variation of image. The image compression method is expected to achieve a reasonable compression ratio with acceptable quality. With another meaning, the compressed image size is decreased and consumes a smaller transmission bandwidth via the wireless channel compared with the original image size. The method adopts a deep learning approach to improve the quality with limited bandwidth. The proposed method is abbreviated as DLBL (deep learning block luminance). DLBL implemented and tested on some tested bed images. The performance of the proposed method is compared with some ones considering the same conditions. Some measurable criteria are taken into consideration for performance evaluation. The criteria are the compression ratio (CR), peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR) and structure similarity index measure (SSIM). From the experiments results, the proposed method showed significant and efficient performance compared with some other related ones. This is clear from the values of CR, PSNR and SSIM.
Global FDI inflows and outflows in emerging economies Post-COVID-19 era
Authors: Al-kasasbeh Omar , Alzghoul Amro , Alghraibeh Khaled
Published: November 2022

FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) is frequently viewed as a critical measure of a country's economic strength and potential. Consequently, this paper investigates why countries attract FDI by utilizing factors and channels such as vertical or horizontal FDI as well as COVID-19’s impact on FDI flows in emerging economies with data from 1990 to 2020. Models of kinked exponential growth for estimating growth rates and the Andrew and Zivot trend formulations are used to analyze the rise in FDI inflows. The FDI inflow channels are estimated using dynamic panel data analysis, with a generalized method of moments for emerging economies as a whole and an autoregressive distributed lag-pooled mean group for specific countries. The countries studied were India, China, Russia, South Africa, and Brazil. Except for India, where the trend has accelerated, the rest of the nations in the emerging economies category has seen significant or minor declines. Overall, vertical and horizontal factors influence FDI inflows to emerging economies. However, estimations show that vertical and horizontal factors promote FDI inflow into the Russian Federation and India. China's horizontal motivation, on the contrary, is critical. Inflows of FDI into Brazil and South Africa appear to be unrelated. The pandemic scenario affects FDI in Brazil but not in other emerging economies. FDI determinants differ per country. In order to improve their economic situation following the pandemic, developing countries may establish adequate FDI policies to attract FDI.
Coadministration of CD19- and CD22-Directed Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapy in Childhood B-Cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Single-Arm, Multicenter, Phase II Trial
Authors: Wang Tianyi , Tang Yanjing , Cai Jiaoyang , Wan Xinyu , Hu Shaoyan , Lu Xiaoxi , Xie Zhiwei , Qiao Xiaohong , Jiang Hui , Shao Jingbo , Yang Fan , Ren Hong , Cao Qing , Qian Juan , Zhang Jian , An Kang , Wang Jianmin , Luo Chengjuan , Liang Huanhuan , Miao Yan , Ma Yani , Wang Xiang , Ding Lixia , Song Lili , He Hailong , Shi Wenhua , Xiao Peifang , Yang Xiaomin , Yang Jing , Li Wenjie , Zhu Yiping , Wang Ningling , Gu Longjun , Chen Qimin , Tang Jingyan , Yang Jun J. , Cheng Cheng , Leung Wing , Chen Jing , Lu Jun , Li Benshang , Pui Ching-Hon
Published: November 2022

PURPOSE

We determined the safety and efficacy of coadministration of CD19- and CD22-chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells in patients with refractory disease or high-risk hematologic or isolated extramedullary relapse of B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This phase II trial enrolled 225 evaluable patients age ≤ 20 years between September 17, 2019, and December 31, 2021. We first conducted a safety run-in stage to determine the recommended dose. After interim analysis of the first 30 patients treated (27 at the recommended dose) showing that the treatment was safe and effective, the study enrolled additional patients according to the study design.

RESULTS

Complete remission was achieved in 99.0% of the 194 patients with refractory leukemia or hematologic relapse, all negative for minimal residual disease. Their overall 12-month event-free survival (EFS) was 73.5% (95% CI, 67.3 to 80.3). Relapse occurred in 43 patients (24 with CD19+/CD22+ relapse, 16 CD19–/CD22+, one CD19–/CD22–, and two unknown). Consolidative transplantation and persistent B-cell aplasia at 6 months were associated with favorable outcomes. The 12-month EFS was 85.0% (95% CI, 77.2 to 93.6) for the 78 patients treated with transplantation and 69.2% (95% CI, 60.8 to 78.8) for the 116 nontransplanted patients ( P = .03, time-dependent covariate Cox model). All 25 patients with persistent B-cell aplasia at 6 months remained in remission at 12 months. The 12-month EFS for the 20 patients with isolated testicular relapse was 95.0% (95% CI, 85.9 to 100), and for the 10 patients with isolated CNS relapse, it was 68.6% (95% CI, 44.5 to 100). Cytokine release syndrome developed in 198 (88.0%) patients, and CAR T-cell neurotoxicity in 47 (20.9%), resulting in three deaths.

CONCLUSION

CD19-/CD22-CAR T-cell therapy achieved relatively durable remission in children with relapsed or refractory B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia, including those with isolated or combined extramedullary relapse.

[Media: see text]
Epidemiology of Vitamin D (EpiVida)—A Study of Vitamin D Status Among Healthy Adults in Brazil
Authors: Borba Victoria Zeghbi Cochenski , Lazaretti-Castro Marise , Moreira Sandra da Silva , de Almeida Maria Conceição Chagas , Moreira Edson Duarte
Published: November 2022

Context

There are few studies of 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations in healthy adults in Brazil.

Objective

This work aimed to estimate the prevalence of vitamin D status and its association with lifestyle, sociodemographic, and anthropometric data in 3 regions of Brazil.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among blood donors of both sexes, living in the cities of Salvador, São Paulo, and Curitiba during summer. Blood samples were collected during the procedure. Serum 25(OH)D and parathyroid hormone (PTH) were measured in the same laboratory using chemiluminescence immunoassays. Lifestyle, sociodemographic, and anthropometric data were gathered by an interview with a standardized questionnaire. Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency was defined as 25(OH)D levels below 20 ng/mL and below 30 ng/mL, respectively.

Results

A total of 1004 healthy adults were evaluated with mean levels of 25(OH)D (28.7 ± 9.27 ng/mL) and PTH (34.4 ± 15.1 pg/mL). The standardized prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency was in the study population 15.3% and 50.9%: in Salvador 12.1% and 47.6%, in São Paulo 20.5%, and 52.4% and in Curitiba 12.7% and 52.1%, (P = .0004). PTH levels were negatively correlated with 25(OH)D levels. Greater body mass index (BMI) and higher latitude were significant predictors of vitamin D deficiency, whereas skin color (White), longer duration of sun exposure, and current use of dietary supplement were protective.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency even in the midsummer in a healthy population of Brazil. Vitamin D levels are associated with sun exposure, latitude, BMI, skin color, and use of supplements.
Αλγόριθμοι στη δημόσια σφαίρα
Authors: Βογιατζής Ηρακλής-Αλέξανδρος , Βλαχάκης Γεώργιος
Published: November 2022

Η ανάπτυξη και ραγδαία ενσωμάτωση των ψηφιακών τεχνολογιών στις καθημερινές δραστηριότητες συχνά συνοδεύεται από αφηγήματα για την επιδραστικότητα των αλγορίθμων στην κοινωνική πραγματικότητα. Τα τελευταία χρόνια πληθαίνουν οι προβληματισμοί για το μέλλον της αλγοριθμικής ρύθμισης του κοινωνικού, καθώς η επέκταση της χρήσης των αυτοματοποιημένων συστημάτων λήψης αποφάσεων στην εκπαίδευση, στην εργασία και στις θεσμικές διαδικασίες, έχει φέρει στο φως τις φυλετικές, έμφυλες και ταξικές προκαταλήψεις που εγγράφονται στον σχεδιασμό και στα δεδομένα των αλγορίθμων. Στο άρθρο αυτό, χαρτογραφείται ο σχετικός διάλογος στη δημόσια σφαίρα και εξετάζονται τα αλγοριθμικά φαντασιακά που χαρακτηρίζουν τα διαφορετικά πεδία του δημόσιου λόγου και της ακαδημαϊκής έρευνας, με σκοπό την ανασυγκρότηση του κριτικού λόγου που παράγεται για τους αλγορίθμους. Σε μια προσπάθεια υπέρβασης των αφηγημάτων της τεχνοφοβίας και της τεχνοφιλίας, το άρθρο τοποθετεί στο κέντρο της συζήτησης την επικοινωνία της επιστήμης και τον ρόλο που μπορεί να διαδραματίσει στην ανάπτυξη ενός διαλόγου για τον ψηφιακό μετασχηματισμό της κοινωνίας.
Παραίτηση
Authors: Berardi Franco “Bifo”
Published: November 2022

Στις 18 Μαρτίου του 2020, λίγες μόνο ημέρες μετά την επιβολή των απαγορεύσεων κυκλοφορίας στην πλειονότητα των ευρωπαϊκών μητροπόλεων, ο Μπίφο ανάρτησε στο blog των εκδόσεων Verso ένα άρθρο με τίτλο, Το Ημερολόγιο του Ψυχο-αποπληθωρισμού. Εκεί υποστήριζε πως: Το άγνωστο σταματά τη μηχανή, ο βιολογικός δράστης μετατρέπεται σε πληροφορ-ιό και ο πληροφορ-ιός ενεργοποιεί μια αλυσιδωτή ψυχωτική αντίδραση. Στο άρθρο «Παραίτηση: Η ψυχωτική κατάρρευση του δυτικού μυαλού», ο Μπίφο συνεχίζει τον παραπάνω συλλογισμό. Παρατηρεί πως η τρομακτική αναντιστοιχία ανάμεσα στους οικονομικούς δείκτες και την ψυχολογία των ανθρώπων διαμορφώνει ένα νέο πολιτικό πεδίο. Οι υγειονομικές προσταγές που κατέλαβαν ολόκληρο το κοινωνικό πεδίο παρήγαγαν μια νέα πραγματικότητα στην οποία καμία μορφή πολιτικής επιτελεστικότητας που αντλεί από τους προηγούμενους αιώνες δεν μπορεί να σταθεί ως αποτελεσματικό κριτικό εγχείρημα. Η Μεγάλη Παραίτηση, η ασυνείδητη παγκόσμιας κλίμακας παραίτηση της Generation Ζ από την ηθική της εργασίας αποτελεί μια γραμμή διαφυγής για τα κινήματα του 21ου αιώνα κι ο Μπίφο ακολουθεί την τροχιά της.
Συγκριτική προσέγγιση των νομικών πλαισίων της διαλογής ασθενών (triage)
Authors: Δουβίκα Ελένη (Έλενα)
Published: November 2022

Ως triage ορίζεται η διαλογή των ασθενών σε περίπτωση έλλειψης διαθέσιμων πόρων υγείας. Πρόκειται για μία πρακτική, η οποία χρησιμοποιείται σε διαφορετικές μορφές από την αρχαία Αίγυπτο έως σήμερα. Λόγω της πανδημίας του COVID-19, η πρακτική αυτή εντάθηκε και κατά συνέπεια άρχισαν να προκύπτουν τόσο ηθικά όσο και νομικά ζητήματα. Θα πρέπει ο επαγγελματίας υγείας να κάνει τη διαλογή χωρίς κάποια κρατική οδηγία ή μήπως ο κρατικός μηχανισμός θα πρέπει να ρυθμίζει το ακριβές πλαίσιο της διαλογής; Ποιος έχει την ευθύνη για τις επιλογές διαλογής; Ποια κριτήρια διαλογής είναι ηθικά; Αυτά είναι τα κύρια ερωτήματα που προκύπτουν από την πρακτική αυτή. Η παρούσα εργασία προσπαθεί να δώσει απάντηση σε αυτά τα ερωτήματα αναλύοντας και συγκρίνοντας τα διαφορετικά νομικά πλαίσια διάφορων κρατών, και εν τέλει προτείνοντας ένα βέλτιστο νομικό πλαίσιο της πρακτικής του triage.
Research on factors affecting tourist involvement in coffee tourism after the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand
Authors: Madhyamapurush Warach
Published: November 2022

Background: The world economy was broken by the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected the coffee industry. The COVID-19 pandemic's financial effects might influence equity markets and personal lives. This includes financial commodities like coffee, which the pandemic is predicted to damage. Coffee tourism is an emerging new kind of tourism in Thailand, formed in response to growing demand from visitors with a particular affinity for the beverage. Coffee tourism may contribute considerably to the expansion of Thai tourism if given the proper guidance and assistance.

Methods: As part of a coffee tourism experience focusing on first-hand activities and information, tourists can visit neighbouring sites while on a coffee plantation. This research uses a stochastic neuro-fuzzy decision tree (SNF-DT) to analyse coffee tourism in Thailand. The research surveys 400 international and Thai coffee tourists. According to studies, Thai visitors mostly visit coffee tourism locations in Thailand for enjoyment. They also wanted to visit coffee fields in order to get personal knowledge of coffee production and marketing. Based on the comments of Thai visitors, coffee tourism in northern Thailand looks to be highly and effectively handled. Due to the same factor, responses from foreign coffee tourists indicated that many of their journeys to coffee tourism destinations were made entirely for enjoyment rather than the business. They also wanted to meet local tour guides and acquire handmade and locally produced things to understand more about coffee tourism. 

Result: According to study results, coffee tourism management in northern Thailand looks well-received by international tourists. We also compare the suggested model to the traditional one to demonstrate its efficacy. The performance metrics are prediction rate, prediction error, and accuracy. The estimated results for our proposed technique are prediction rate (95%), prediction error (97%), and accuracy (94%).
Granite classification using machine learning and edge computing
Authors: Karanam Madhavi , Nagaraju Krishna Chythanya , P Gotham Sai , S SaiKiran Manasa , G Pranay Krishna
Published: November 2022

Background: The outlook and the aura of any place are highly dependent on how a place is decorated and what materials are used in designing it. Granite is such a kind of rock which is vastly used for this purpose. Granite flooring and counters have a major influence on the interior d ́ecor which is essential to set the mood and ambience of a house. A system is needed to help the end users differentiate between granites, which enhance the grandeur of their house and also check the frauds of different color granite being sent by the merchant as compared to what was selected by the end user. Several models have been developed for this cause using CNN and other image processing techniques. However, a solution for this purpose must be precise and computationally efficient.

Methods: For this purpose,researchers in this work developed a machine learning based granite classifier using Edge Computing and a website to help users in choosing which granite would go well with their d ́ecor is also built. The developed system consists of a color sensor [TCS3200] integrated with an ESP8266 board. The data pertaining to RGB contrasts of different rocks is acquired by using the color sensor from a dealership.This data is used to train a Machine Learning algorithm to classify the rock into different granite types from a granite dealer and yield the category prediction.

Results: The proposed system yields a result of 94% accuracy when classified using Random Forest Algorithm.

Conclusion: Thus, this system provides an upper hand for the end users in differentiating between different types of granites.
Inference of a genome-wide protein-coding gene set of the inshore hagfish Eptatretus burgeri
Authors: Nishimura Osamu , Yamaguchi Kazuaki , Hara Yuichiro , Tatsumi Kaori , Smith Jeramiah J , Kadota Mitsutaka , Kuraku Shigehiro
Published: November 2022

The hagfishes (Myxiniformes) arose from agnathan (jawless vertebrate) lineages and they are one of only two extant cyclostome taxa, together with lampreys (Petromyzontiformes). Even though whole genome sequencing has been achieved for diverse vertebrate taxa, genome-wide sequence information has been highly limited for cyclostomes. Here we sequenced the genome of the inshore hagfish Eptatretus burgeri using DNA extracted from the testis, with a short-read sequencing platform, aiming to reconstruct a high-coverage protein-coding gene catalogue. The obtained genome assembly, scaffolded with mate-pair reads and paired RNA-seq reads, exhibited an N50 scaffold length of 293 Kbp, which allowed the genome-wide prediction of coding genes. This computation resulted in the gene models whose completeness was estimated at the complete coverage of more than 83 % and the partial coverage of more than 93 % by referring to evolutionarily conserved single-copy orthologs. The high contiguity of the assembly and completeness of the gene models promise a high utility in various comparative analyses including phylogenomics and phylome exploration.
Comparative analysis of computed tomography severity indices in predicting the severity and clinical outcome in patients with acute pancreatitis
Authors: Parmar Geetanjali , Noronha Griselda Philomena , Poornima Vinaya
Published: November 2022

Background: Acute pancreatitis (AP) has unpredictable severity. Its management is based on initial assessment of disease severity. It ranges from mild interstitial to severe necrotic form; the latter is associated with poor prognosis. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen is the gold standard in early detection of pancreatic necrosis and in assessing the severity of AP. Two CT grading systems exist to assess severity of AP: CT severity Index (CSI) and modified CSI (MCSI). This study compares the usefulness of these two systems in predicting severity and clinical outcome in AP in comparison with Ranson’s criteria and clinical outcome parameters.

Methods: This is a prospective hospital-based screening study of 80 patients aged >12 years with clinical diagnosis of AP who underwent contrast-enhanced CT study of the abdomen. Comparative analysis between MCSI and CSI with Ranson’s criteria and clinical outcome parameters was assessed by Chi-Squared test.

Results: The accuracy of CSI and MSCI in predicting the requirement of critical care, superadded infection, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) and requirement of intervention were 73.0%, 64.5%, 69.8% 60.9% and 77.2%, 76.0%, 74.4% & 56.6%, respectively. Area under the curve for MCSI score was significantly higher (AUC : 0.861; 95% CI: 0.736-0.986) than CSI score (AUC:0.815;95% CI:0.749-0.941). MCSI and CSI showed significant correlation with Ranson’s criteria; however, MCSI correlation was better (r:0.53; p<0.01) than CSI (r:0.35;p:0.04).

Conclusion: CSI and MCSI are better predictors of severity, clinical outcome and mortality compared with Ranson’s criteria, with MCSI being more accurate and better predictor than CSI.  The accuracy of MCSI is better than CSI for prediction of requirement of critical care, development of superadded infection and development of MODS in AP. However, CSI and MCSI have low accuracy in predicting intervention in AP.
Methodology of application of educational online services in teaching mathematics in the context of the implementation of the updated FGOS LLC
Authors: Kashicyna Yu. , Vasileva M. , Obydenkov I.
Published: November 2022

The article is devoted to the use of electronic educational resources in teaching mathematics and is based on the key ideas of the updated FGOS LLC, one of which is the idea of forming and developing students' competencies in the field of information technology use. The article will introduce math teachers to the possibility of using an online educational service Learningapps.org to increase motivation and more productive formation of computational skills of students in the process of teaching mathematics. The theme of "Fractions" is taken as a basis. The article provides methodological recommendations for the inclusion of educational resources in the process of studying this topic. The article is addressed to teachers and students of pedagogical universities, methodologists, as well as teachers of mathematics.
School learning environment and educational space: features and differences
Authors: Nikolaev V.
Published: November 2022

The modern school education is aimed at developing students’ personality, forming their traits and skills that can help them to cope with the challenges and changes in the content of education, as well as with educational technological advances (including information technology), forms of interaction (with all subjects of the educational process), new methods and means of education. The ultimate goal is to be ready for further self-realization in the conditions of constant changes in the surrounding society.

The design of a new type of the learning environment that integrates all the resources and capabilities of the school educational space will contribute to achieving the desired goal.

The article considers the features and differences between the concepts "learning environment" and "educational space", and discusses their impact on students. This paper also presents some approaches used to design the learning environment that was developed for the teaching staff of the school-kindergarten Educational Complex "Our School" (Novosibirsk): the mission of the school, the basic principles of organizing the educational space, the main system-forming approaches to the design of the school learning environment.
RESEARCH AND ECONOMIC AND MATHEMATICAL MODELING OF RURAL POPULATION MIGRATION
Authors: Gazetdinov Shamil , Ziganshin Bulat
Published: November 2022

The purpose of the study is to analyze the problems of migration of the population of rural areas at the present stage on the basis of methods of economic and mathematical modeling. The article discusses issues related to the increasing complexity of the development of remote rural areas and the deterioration of the demographic situation in them. The solution of these problems should be based on a systematic study of the factors of territorial development of management facilities. It is well known that many factors are involved in an aggregated and averaged form, which, in turn, complicates the specification of their relationship. Therefore, in aposteriori, one can find arguments in favor of any factor and the direction of its impact. The paper asserts the need to study the processes occurring in rural areas at the "micro level", since the results of the study contain a large number of empirical indicators of the level and lifestyle of the rural population, which make it possible to identify trends, establish patterns, and find stable links between their various indicators. The digitalization of the economy opens up wide opportunities in this sense, which makes it possible to automate the search for significant relationships between features in the conjugacy tables of a sufficiently large dimension. It is argued that the study and mathematical modeling of the migration process in rural areas is a necessary condition for a more specific analysis of its patterns and determining the reactions of individuals to certain controlling influences.
RUSSIAN EXPORTS AND IMPORTS OF TRADE PARTNERS: BILATERAL ASYMMETRIES IN STATISTICS
Authors: Narbut Victoria , Tolmachev Mikhail , Shnaider Ol'ga
Published: November 2022

The study was conducted to assess the discrepancies in the statistical accounting of Russian exports and imports of 50 partner countries in terms of trade relations for the period from 2012 to 2019. The work is based on the statistical data of Federal Customs Service of Russia, the database of the International Monetary Fund “Direction of Trade Statistics”, the data of Eurostat “Intra-and Extra-EU Trade” and the CIS Statistical Committee. Statistical methods of analysis were used: calculation of indicators of variation, dynamics, structure, correlation analysis, nonparametric tests for assessing differences between groups. The novelty of the study lies in the use of the indicator of relative export asymmetry to assess discrepancies in the reflection of export and import operations, which is calculated on the basis of the average value between Russian exports and imports of the partner country. This indicator does not give preference to either Russian or partner country accounting. The hypothesis put forward about the dependence of the magnitude of relative asymmetry on the volume of transactions with goods was not confirmed. Discrepancies in the statistical reporting of countries participating in foreign economic activity determine the factors associated with the peculiarities of accounting for foreign trade transactions. Differences in relative asymmetry depend on the country's membership in a particular group. It was most pronounced in the reflection of export operations in non-CIS countries, least of all - in the CIS countries. The level of relative export asymmetry in the period from 2012 to 2019 changed statistically significantly for all groups of countries: in the EU countries and other far-abroad countries it decreased, in the CIS countries it increased.
DUE DILIGENCE IN THE COMPANY'S LEGAL AUDIT SYSTEM
Authors: KHoruzhiy Lyudmila , Gordeeva Ol'ga , Kashirskaya Lyudmila
Published: November 2022

The research was conducted in order to assess Due diligence in the system of legal security of companies' activities as one of the stages of economic control and, in particular, audit and improvement of its methodology. Due diligence audit is more associated with the analysis of investment objects, which includes an assessment of investment risks, an independent assessment of the investment object, a comprehensive audit of the financial condition of the company, and, to a lesser extent, with its position on the market and, most importantly, with the legal security and security of both the company and its management. The legal audit is not fully developed for practical use and does not contain research questions that are in demand by company executives and investors. Based on proposals for Due diligence by audit companies and the requirements of the parties interested in the audit, tools were proposed, a step-by-step risk assessment of the company, a checklist and an algorithm for conducting Due diligence audit as one of the areas of legal audit, and typical violations were identified that contribute to orientation in the search for illegal actions, including for preventive purposes, which in general, it allowed to improve the methodology of Due diligence audit. In the course of the research, general scientific methods of logical analysis and synthesis were used, in particular, analogies, typologies, generalizations. Based on the study of extensive empirical material, the features of the implementation and detected violations during Due diligence audit are investigated. The practical significance of the article is that the conclusions and proposals are aimed at the development of modern economic control and contribute to business optimization. The study conducted by the authors revealed that the new reality has changed the attitude to the use of standard methods that do not take into account the specifics of the functioning of companies, and requires the modernization of old and the introduction of new approaches to Due diligence audit methods.
INCREASING THE EFFICIENCY OF THE USE OF A MACHINE-TRACTOR UNIT WITH A SOIL-WORKING SEEDING COMPLEX
Authors: Gabitov Ildar , Mudarisov Salavat , Akhmetov Albert , Gainullin Ilshat , Rakhimov Ildar
Published: November 2022

The article deals with the issues of operation of a machine-tractor unit with a soil-cultivating sowing complex. Improving the efficiency of using machine-tractor units and the most complete realization of the technical potential inherent in them can be carried out on the basis of the development of automated control systems and monitoring the implementation of technological processes both by the tractor and the implement, as well as by the unit as a whole. The traction-power balance of a tractor with a soil-cultivating sowing complex when working under given conditions is considered. It is shown that the performance during operation can change by reducing the power loss to overcome the forces of rolling resistance. Theoretical dependences for determining the power and speed parameters of the machine-tractor unit during sowing with tillage and fertilization are given.
Cardiotoxicity of doxorubicin – causes, prevention, prospects
Authors: Wesołowski Paweł , Budzeń Kamil , Bąk Sebastian , Sygacz Oliwer , Stachura Tomasz
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Doxorubicin is one of the most reliable anthracycline chemotherapeutics. Its high efficacy in treating a large range of cancers, however, comes hand in hand with complications. A hallmark of anthracycline drugs, and also their most common side effect, is heart failure caused by the development of dilated cardiomyopathy.
Purpose of the study: The purpose of our work is to present the current state of knowledge about the causes of doxorubicin cardiotoxicity and to present known ways to minimize the negative impact on the patient's health.
Materials and Methods: We performed a non-systematic review of the Polish and English-language literature available in the database, using the keywords: ,,doxorubicin"; ,,anthracyclines"; ,,cardiotoxicity"; ,,cardiomyopathy"; ,,chemotherapy".
Results: Doxorubicin is counted among the first-generation anthracycline cytostatics widely used in cancer chemotherapy. The enormous potential of anthracyclines is a motivator for further attempts to improve these molecules and eliminate side effects. The methods developed so far have led to a reduction in the frequency of cardiovascular incidents, but the risks associated with the use of these drugs are still relatively high and the cost of liposomal forms is high.
Summary: The current state of knowledge identifies promising options for improving the well-being of patients undergoing treatment with chemotherapeutic agents. Hopes for effective analogs free of cardiotoxic effects are reasonable, and the use of companion substances is an additional possibility.
La primera impresión no siempre es la que cuenta. Las matemáticas ayudan a medir las conductas morales
Authors: Barbosa Sergio , Calderón Acero Camilo Andrés
Published: November 2022

El uso de modelos matemáticos en la psicología se ha vuelto una herramienta clave para la reflexión y el análisis de los comportamientos humanos. Sergio Barbosa, profesor del Programa de Psicología de la Universidad del Rosario, se propuso identificar cuál es el modelo predictivo que se asemeja mejor al razonamiento humano cuando juzga rasgos morales.
Hambre y malnutrición se agudizan en América Latina y el Caribe
Authors: Pulido López Alejandra , Abultaif Kadamani Amira
Published: November 2022

Cuatro de cada diez latinoamericanos no tienen una alimentación regular y nutritiva. Aunque existen políticas intergubernamentales en la región para combatir el hambre y la inseguridad alimentaria, su implementación ha sido muy lenta y se ha quedado muy corta ante esta angustiante emergencia.
Analisis Dukungan Sosial Pada Pasien Kanker Payudara Pasca Mastektomi di Kecamatan Semaka Kabupaten Tanggamus Lampung
Authors: Nurmia Ika , Handayani Lina
Published: November 2022

Background: Social support in post-mastectomy breast cancer patients is still lacking, patients who do not get social support will feel inferior and isolate themselves.
Objective: How is the social support provided by the immediate environment of cancer patients with mastectomy treatment?
Methods: This research is a type of qualitative research that uses a case study design. Informants were taken using snowball sampling technique and found 4 key informants and 4 triangulated informants.Results: The appreciation support received by post-mastectomy breast cancer patients in Semaka District, Tanggamus Regency, Lampung is mostly words of encouragement, motivation and respect for patients. Material support received in the form of financial assistance from spouses and families, as well as assistance in providing fruits, food, drinks and purchasing medicines. Post-mastectomy breast cancer patients do not get informational support from their partners, friends and family.
Conclusions: The emotional support received by the patient is affection, attention and sympathy, but not all patients get this support.
Dukungan Kader kepada Orang dengan Gangguan Jiwa
Authors: Permata Yesti , Solikhah Solikhah , Suryani Dyah
Published: November 2022

Background: People with mental disorders (PwMD) are people who experience disturbances in thoughts, behaviour and feelings that cause suffering and obstacles in carrying out their functions as humans. Cadres or health workers acted as liaison between PwMD and health care facilities to overcome challenges faced by PwMD by providing several types of social supports. The purpose of this study was to describe the support of cadres to PwMD in the working area of Ponjong I Public Health Center.
Objective: The purpose of this study was to describe the support of cadres to PwMD in the working area of Ponjong I Public Health Center.
Methods: This study used a cross-sectional design with a sample of 177 cadres. The data were analyzed as a percentage of the characteristics and several types of social support namely emotional, informational, instrumental and appraisal support.
Results: A total of 177 cadres aged 41-65 years were 59.89%. The total of social support from cadres categorized as good (85.31%), while the percentages according to their dimensions are 50.3% for informational support, 49.2% for appraisal support, 49.7% for emotional support and 47.5% for instrumental support.
Conclusions: The social support provided by cadres for PwMD was cat-egorized as good with more prominent dimensions of appraisal and emotional support. Dimensions of social support that still needs to be optimized are providing informational and instrumental supports.
Research roundup
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: November 2022

Mark Greener looks at the latest studies relating to smoking and its effects on health
Winter is coming: time for the influenza jab
Authors: Heffernan Catherine
Published: November 2022

Catherine Heffernan looks at what nurses need to know about this year's flu season