bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Allocentric and Egocentric Controllers: Similarities and Differences
Authors: Atassi Lilac
Published: April 2021

Gestural instruments can be divided into two categories based on controller type: that of the egocentric controller, centered on and following a point of the performer’s body, and the allocentric controller, using a stationary reference frame. This article discusses (1) the similarities and differences between egocentric and allocentric controllers for gestural instruments from the perspective of performer and instrument designer, and (2) the affordances and constraints of egocentric and allocentric controllers as they, to a large degree, define the characteristics of an instrument. The author presents the initial results of a subjective experiment to encourage future discussion and study of the subject.
Predictive Processing in Cognitive Robotics: A Review
Authors: Ciria Alejandra , Schillaci Guido , Pezzulo Giovanni , Hafner Verena V. , Lara Bruno
Published: April 2021

Predictive processing has become an influential framework in cognitive sciences. This framework turns the traditional view of perception upside down, claiming that the main flow of information processing is realized in a top-down, hierarchical manner. Furthermore, it aims at unifying perception, cognition, and action as a single inferential process. However, in the related literature, the predictive processing framework and its associated schemes, such as predictive coding, active inference, perceptual inference, and free-energy principle, tend to be used interchangeably. In the field of cognitive robotics, there is no clear-cut distinction on which schemes have been implemented and under which assumptions. In this letter, working definitions are set with the main aim of analyzing the state of the art in cognitive robotics research working under the predictive processing framework as well as some related nonrobotic models. The analysis suggests that, first, research in both cognitive robotics implementations and nonrobotic models needs to be extended to the study of how multiple exteroceptive modalities can be integrated into prediction error minimization schemes. Second, a relevant distinction found here is that cognitive robotics implementations tend to emphasize the learning of a generative model, while in nonrobotics models, it is almost absent. Third, despite the relevance for active inference, few cognitive robotics implementations examine the issues around control and whether it should result from the substitution of inverse models with proprioceptive predictions. Finally, limited attention has been placed on precision weighting and the tracking of prediction error dynamics. These mechanisms should help to explore more complex behaviors and tasks in cognitive robotics research under the predictive processing framework.
Temperature-insensitive FBG acceleration sensor based on strain chirp effect
Authors: Hong Li , Zhang Yuzi , Mu Ruwang , Teng Yuntian , Qiu Zhongchao , Zhang Ruilei
Published: April 2021

The measurement of low-frequency vibration signals is a very important job in the fields of earthquake early warning, health monitoring of large-scale engineering structures, and geological exploration. Aiming at the problem of Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) acceleration sensors’ cross-sensitivity to temperature and strain when measuring low-frequency vibration signals, this paper developed an M-shaped double cantilever beam structure that can produce chirp effect with its own structural characteristics, thereby making the sensor insensitive to temperature. Through theoretical analysis and simulation, the paper obtained the relationship between the reflection spectrum bandwidth of the chirped FBG and its acceleration. It adopted a spectrometer and a vibration test system to detect the reflection spectrum bandwidth of the FBG, and then obtained the acceleration. The experimental results showed that, compared with bare fiber grating, the temperature sensitivity of the proposed sensor was significantly lower, and its reflection spectrum bandwidth was not sensitive to temperature changes, moreover, there are good linear relationships between the reflection spectrum bandwidth, the power of the light, and the acceleration. The sensitivity was about 256 pm/g, the natural frequency was 66 Hz; therefore, the proposed sensor had realized high-performance detection of low-frequency vibration signals.
Difference in the general medicine in-training examination score between community-based hospitals and university hospitals: a cross-sectional study based on 15,188 Japanese resident physicians
Authors: Nishizaki Yuji , Nozawa Keigo , Shinozaki Tomohiro , Shimizu Taro , Okubo Tomoya , Yamamoto Yu , Konishi Ryota , Tokuda Yasuharu
Published: April 2021

Background

The general medicine in-training examination (GM-ITE) is designed to objectively evaluate the postgraduate clinical competencies (PGY) 1 and 2 residents in Japan. Although the total GM-ITE scores tended to be lower in PGY-1 and PGY-2 residents in university hospitals than those in community-based hospitals, the most divergent areas of essential clinical competencies have not yet been revealed.

Methods

We conducted a nationwide, multicenter, cross-sectional study in Japan, using the GM-ITE to compare university and community-based hospitals in the four areas of basic clinical knowledge“. Specifically, “medical interview and professionalism,” “symptomatology and clinical reasoning,” “physical examination and clinical procedures,” and “disease knowledge” were assessed.

Results

We found no significant difference in “medical interview and professionalism” scores between the community-based and university hospital residents. However, significant differences were found in the remaining three areas. A 1.28-point difference (95% confidence interval: 0.96–1.59) in “physical examination and clinical procedures” in PGY-1 residents was found; this area alone accounts for approximately half of the difference in total score.

Conclusions

The standardization of junior residency programs and the general clinical education programs in Japan should be promoted and will improve the overall training that our residents receive. This is especially needed in categories where university hospitals have low scores, such as “physical examination and clinical procedures.”
Correction to: Alantolactone selectively ablates acute myeloid leukemia stem and progenitor cells
Authors: Ding Yahui , Gao Huier , Zhang Yu , Li Ye , Vasdev Neil , Gao Yingdai , Chen Yue , Zhang Quan
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Correction to: Short hairpin RNA- mediated gene knockdown of FOXM1 inhibits the proliferation and metastasis of human colon cancer cells through reversal of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transformation
Authors: Yang KanKan , Jiang LinHua , Hu You , Yu Jing , Chen HenFeng , Yao YiZhou , Zhu XinGuo
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Transcriptome analysis revealed the regulation of gibberellin and the establishment of photosynthetic system promote rapid seed germination and early growth of seedling in pearl millet
Authors: Wu Bingchao , Sun Min , Zhang Huan , Yang Dan , Lin Chuang , Khan Imran , Wang Xiaoshan , Zhang Xinquan , Nie Gang , Feng Guangyan , Yan Yanhong , Li Zhou , Peng Yan , Huang Linkai
Published: April 2021

Background

Seed germination is the most important stage for the formation of a new plant. This process starts when the dry seed begins to absorb water and ends when the radicle protrudes. The germination rate of seed from different species varies. The rapid germination of seed from species that grow on marginal land allows seedlings to compete with surrounding species, which is also the guarantee of normal plant development and high yield. Pearl millet is an important cereal crop that is used worldwide, and it can also be used to extract bioethanol. Previous germination experiments have shown that pearl millet has a fast seed germination rate, but the molecular mechanisms behind pearl millet are unclear. Therefore, this study explored the expression patterns of genes involved in pearl millet growth from the germination of dry seed to the early growth stages.

Results

Through the germination test and the measurement of the seedling radicle length, we found that pearl millet seed germinated after 24 h of swelling of the dry seed. Using transcriptome sequencing, we characterized the gene expression patterns of dry seed, water imbibed seed, germ and radicle, and found more differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in radicle than germ. Further analysis showed that different genome clusters function specifically at different tissues and time periods. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis showed that many genes that positively regulate plant growth and development are highly enriched and expressed, especially the gibberellin signaling pathway, which can promote seed germination. We speculated that the activation of these key genes promotes the germination of pearl millet seed and the growth of seedlings. To verify this, we measured the content of gibberellin and found that the gibberellin content after seed imbibition rose sharply and remained at a high level.

Conclusions

In this study, we identified the key genes that participated in the regulation of seed germination and seedling growth. The activation of key genes in these pathways may contribute to the rapid germination and growth of seed and seedlings in pearl millet. These results provided new insight into accelerating the germination rate and seedling growth of species with slow germination.
Relationship between glycemic intraday variations evaluated in continuous glucose monitoring and HbA1c variability in type 2 diabetes: pilot study
Authors: Tokutsu Akemi , Okada Yosuke , Torimoto Keiichi , Tanaka Yoshiya
Published: April 2021

Background

HbA1c variability is independent of mean HbA1c, and associated with mortality due to vascular complications. However, the significance of HbA1c variability is unknown at present. In this study, we used flash glucose monitoring (FGM) and evaluated glycemic intraday variations, and then examined the association with HbA1c variability.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective pilot study of 26 patients treated at the Outpatient department for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and evaluated the following items associated with blood glucose levels and their changes/variations using FGM. The primary endpoint was factor(s) associated with standard deviation (SD) HbA1c over a 6-month period. To adjust for the effect of varying numbers of HbA1c measurements, we used the adjusted SD of HbA1c.

Results

There were significant correlations between mean HbA1c and each of glucose management indicator, maximum, percent time at glucose > 180 mg/day, mean of daily difference of blood glucose, and high blood glucose index. Adjusted SD HbA1c correlated significantly with percent time at glucose < 70 mg/dL and low blood glucose index. We estimated the regression coefficient of adjusted SD HbA1c using multivariate linear regression analysis, and noted that the presence of hypoglycemia affected Adjusted SD HbA1c (β = 0.130, SE = 0.044, P = 0.008). Hypoglycemia was noted in 17 patients, and adjusted SD HbA1c was significantly higher (p = 0.001) in the hypoglycemic group (0.22 ± 0.12%), compared with the non-hypoglycemic group (0.08 ± 0.05%). The cut-off value of adjusted SD HbA1c was 0.109% in the hypoglycemic group.

Conclusions

The results showed that HbA1c variability is associated with hypoglycemia. For patients with high HbA1c variability, we recommend evaluation for the presence of hypoglycemia and reconsideration of their treatment regimen including their glucose-lowering medications.

Trial registration

The study protocol and opt-out method of informed consent were approved by the ethics committees of the University of Occupational and Environmental Health (Trial registration: H27-186, Registered 25 Dec 2015)
US children of minority race are less likely to be admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit after traumatic injury, a retrospective analysis of a single pediatric trauma center
Authors: Slain Katherine N. , Wurtz Morgan A. , Rose Jerri A.
Published: April 2021

Background

The public health impact of pediatric trauma makes identifying opportunities to equalize health related disparities imperative. The influence of a child’s race on the likelihood of admission to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is not well described. We hypothesized that traumatically injured children of minority race would have higher rates of PICU admission, compared to White children.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of a single institution’s trauma registry including children ≤18 years of age presenting to the emergency department (ED) whose injury necessitated pediatric trauma team activation at a Level 1 Pediatric Trauma Center from July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2016. Demographics, injury characteristics and hospital utilization data were collected. Race was categorized as White or racial minority, which included patients identifying as Black, Hispanic ethnicity, Native American or “other.” The primary outcome measure was admission to the PICU. Chi square or Mann Whitney rank sum tests were used, as appropriate, to compare differences in demographics and injury characteristics between those children who were and were not admitted to the PICU setting. Variables associated with PICU admission in univariate analyses were included in a multivariate analysis. Data are presented as median values and interquartile ranges, or numbers and percentages.

Results

The median age of the 654 included subjects was 8 [IQR 4–13] years; 55.2% were a racial minority. Nine (1.4%) children died in the ED and 576 (88.1%) were admitted to the hospital. Of the children requiring hospitalization, 195 (33.9%) were admitted to the PICU. Children admitted to the PICU were less likely to be from a racial minority group (26.1% vs 42.5%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for age and injury characteristics in a multivariable analysis, racial minority children had a lower odds of PICU admission compared to White children (OR 0.492 [95% C.I. 0.298–0.813, p = 0.006]).

Conclusions

In this retrospective analysis of traumatically injured children, minority race was associated with lower odds of PICU admission, suggesting that health care disparities based on race persist in pediatric trauma-related care.
An approach to change the basic polymer composition of the milled Fomes fomentarius fruiting bodies
Authors: Kalitukha Liudmila
Published: April 2021

Background

Chitin and its derivative chitosan are readily exploited, especially in food, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, biomedical, chemical, and textile industries. The biopolymers are currently recovered from the crustacean shells after purification from the large amount of proteins and minerals. The key problems are centered around a lot of chemical waste and allergenic potential of the heat-stable remaining proteins. Fungi can be considered as an alternative eco-friendlier source of the chitin and chitosan due to the lower level of inorganic materials and absence of the allergenic proteins.

Results

The work presents a new chemical assay to change the composition of the milled Fomes fomentarius fruiting bodies. A gradual 13-fold increase of the chitin amount accompanied by 14-fold decrease of the glucan content was obtained after repetitive alkali-acidic treatment. Raw material contained mainly chitin with 30% degree of deacetylation. After the first and second alkali treatment, the polymer was defined as chitosan with comparable amounts of N-acetyl-d-glucosamine and d-glucosamine units. The last treated samples showed an increase of the chitin amount to 80%, along with typical for the natural tinder fibers degree of deacetylation and three-dimensional fibrous hollow structure.

Conclusions

A new approach allowed a gradual enrichment of the pulverized Fomes fomentarius fruiting bodies with chitin or chitosan, depending on the extraction conditions. High stability and fibrous structure of the fungal cell walls with a drastically increased chitin ratio let us suggest a possibility of the targeted production of the chitin-enriched fungal material biotechnologically under eco-friendly conditions.
A case report of a gastrobronchial fistula and lung abscess caused by leakage from the staple line of a gastric tube after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer
Authors: Nishimura Tohru , Fuse Chisakou , Akita Masayuki , Takase Nobuhisa , Maeda Eri , Abe Koichiro , Kozuki Akihito , Yokoyama Kunio , Tanaka Tomohiro , Kishi Shinji , Sakamoto Toshihiko , Sakai Tetsuya , Kaneda Kunihiko
Published: April 2021

Background

Gastrobronchial fistulas are rare, but life-threatening, complications of esophagectomy. They are caused by anastomotic leakage and mainly occur around anastomotic sites. In the present paper, we report a rare case of leakage from the staple line of a gastric tube after esophagectomy for esophageal cancer, which was successfully treated using an intercostal muscle flap and lung resection.

Case presentation

A 61-year-old male underwent subtotal esophagectomy with regional lymphadenectomy for esophageal cancer. The sutures along the staple line of the gastric tube failed 11 days after surgery, and a pulmonary abscess was also found on imaging. The abscess did not heal after conservative treatment; therefore, right lower lobectomy, gastrobronchial fistula resection, primary closure, and patching of the leaking portion of the gastric tube with an intercostal muscle flap were performed 9 months after the first operation. The patient’s postoperative course was uneventful, and he was discharged on the 354th day.

Conclusions

We experienced a case involving a gastrobronchial fistula caused by leakage from the staple line of a gastric tube and successfully treated it by performing right lower lobectomy and patching the leak with an intercostal muscle flap.
Correction to: Optimising medication management in children and young people with ADHD using a computerised test (QbTest): a feasibility randomised controlled trial
Authors: Williams Laura , Hall Charlotte L. , Brown Susan , Guo Boliang , James Marilyn , Franceschini Matilde , Clarke Julie , Selby Kim , Vijayan Hena , Kulkarni Neeta , Brown Nikki , Sayal Kapil , Hollis Chris , Groom Madeleine J.
Published: April 2021

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Effect of hydrophilic or hydrophobic interactions on the self-assembly behavior and micro-morphology of a collagen mimetic peptide
Authors: Luo Xiaomin , Huo Qianqian , Liu Xinhua , Zheng Chi , Liu Ying
Published: April 2021

Peptide self-assembles with bionic properties have been widely utilized for bioactive drugs and biomedical materials. Collagen mimetic peptide (CMP) gains more attention due to its unique advantages in biosecurity and function. Unfortunately, the self-assembly mechanism of CMP, particularly the effect of intermolecular forces on its self-assembly behavior and morphology, is still unrecognized. Herein, the hydrophilic glycidol (GCD) and hydrophobic Y-glycidyl ether oxypropyl trimethoxysilane (GLH) were grafted onto the side chains of CMP through the ring-opening reaction (GCD/CMP, GLH/CMP). Subsequently, the effects of hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions on the self-assembly behavior and morphology of CMP were further studied. The results substantiated that the GCD/CMP and GLH/CMP self-assembly followed “nucleation-growth” mechanism, and the supererogatory hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups prolonged the nucleation and growth time of CMP self-assembly. Noted that the hydrophilic interaction had stronger driving effects than hydrophobic interaction on the self-assembly of CMP. The GCD/CMP and GLH/CMP self-assembles exhibited fibrous 3D network and microsphere morphology, respectively. Furthermore, the GLH/CMP self-assembles had better resistance to degradation. Consequently, the microtopography and degradation properties of CMP self-assembles could be controlled by the hydrophilic and hydrophobic interactions between CMP, which would further provide a way for subsequent purposeful design of biomedical materials.

Graphical abstract
COVID-19 clinico-radiological mismatch: a proposal for a novel combined morphologic/volumetric CT severity score with blinded validation
Authors: Samir Ahmed , Elnekeidy Abdelaziz , Gharraf Heba Said , Baess Ayman Ibrahim , El-Diasty Tarek , Altarawy Dina
Published: April 2021

Background

Some COVID-19 patients with similar quantitative CT measurements had variable clinical presentation and outcome. The absence of reasonable clinical explanations, such as pre-existing comorbidities or vascular complications, adds to the confusion. The authors believed that neglecting the impact of certain severe morphologic features could be an alternative radiological explanation. This study aims to optimize the initial CT staging of COVID-19 and propose a new combined morphologic/volumetric CT severity index (CTSI) to solve this clinico-radiological mismatch.

Results

This multi-center study included two major steps. The first step of the study entailed a standardized combined morphologic/volumetric CT severity analyses to propose a new optimized CTSI. This was conducted retrospectively during the period from June till September 2020. It included 379 acutely symptomatic COVID-19 patients. They were clinically classified according to their oxygen saturation and respiratory therapeutic requirements into three groups: group A (mild 298/79%), group B (borderline severity 57/15%), and group C (severe/critical 24/6%). The morphologic and volumetric assessment of their HRCT was analyzed according to severity, by two consultant radiologists in consensus. A new 25 point-CTSI has been created, combining eight morphological CT patterns [M1:M8; 8 points] and four grades of volumetric scores [S1:S4; 17 points]. The addition of the M5 pattern (air bubble sign), M6 pattern (early fibrosis and architectural distortion), or M7 pattern (crazy-paving) proved to increase the clinical severity. The second step of the study entailed a standardized blinded/independent validation analysis for the proposed CTSI. This was prospectively conducted on other 132 patients during October 2020 and independently performed by other two consultant radiologists. Validation results reached 80.2% sensitivity, 91.8% specificity, AUROC-curve = 0.8356, and 90.9% accuracy.

Conclusion

A new optimized CTSI with accepted validation is proposed for initial staging of COVID-19 patients, using combined morphologic/volumetric assessment instead of the quantitative assessment alone. It could solve the clinico-radiological mismatch among patients with similar quantitative CT results and variable clinical presentation during the absence of pre-existing comorbidities or vascular complications.
A Meta-analysis of University STEM Summer Bridge Program Effectiveness
Authors: Bradford Brittany C. , Beier Margaret E. , Oswald Frederick L.
Published: April 2021

A meta-analysis of university STEM summer bridge programs found that participation had a medium-sized effect on first-year overall GPA ( d = 0.34) and university retention (Odds Ratio OR] = 1.747). Although the analysis reflects the limited available data, it provides much-needed research on programs’ objective effectiveness and guides future program development.
Consensus on the Treatment and Follow-Up for the Nonmetastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: A Report From the First Prostate Cancer Consensus Conference for Developing Countries
Authors: Pereira Felipe Moraes Toledo , Silva Adriano Gonçalves e , Dettino Aldo Lourenço Abbade , Cardoso Ana Paula Garcia , Sasse Andre Deeke , Kann Ariel Galapo , Dzik Carlos , Herchenhorn Daniel , Jardim Denis Leonardo Fontes , Lopera Diego , Ayadi Mouna , Salman Pamela , Kopp Ray Antonio Manneh , De Carvalho Ricardo Saraiva , Cavallero Sandro Roberto De Araujo , Aguiar Sergio , Souza Vinicius Carrera , Uson Junior Pedro Luiz Serrano , Soares Andrey
Published: April 2021

PURPOSE

To present a summary of the recommendations for the treatment and follow-up for the biochemical recurrence of castration-resistant prostate cancer (PCa) as acquired through a questionnaire administered at the Prostate Cancer Consensus Conference for Developing Countries.

METHODS

A total of 27 questions were identified as relating to this topic. Responses from the clinician were tallied and are presented in percentage format. Topics included the use of imaging in staging, treatment recommendations across different patient scenarios of life expectancy and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) doubling time, and follow-up for nonmetastatic castration-resistant PCa.

RESULTS

A consensus agreed that in optimal conditions, positron emission tomography-computed tomography with prostate-specific membrane antigen would be used although in limited resource situations the combined use of CT of the abdomen and pelvic (or pelvic MRI), a bone scan, and a CT of the thorax or chest x-ray was recommended. In cases when PSA levels double in < 10 months, more than 90% of clinicians agreed on the use of apalutamide or enzalutamide, regardless of life expectancy. With a doubling time of more than 10 months, > 54% of experts recommended no treatment independent of life expectancy. More than half of the experts, regardless of resources, recommended follow-up with a physical examination and PSA levels every 3-6 months and imaging only in the case of symptoms.

CONCLUSION

The voting results and recommendations presented in this document can be used by physicians to support management for biochemical recurrence of castration-resistant PCa in areas of limited resources. Individual clinical decision making should be supported by available data.
Standards-Based Physical Education in Schools: The Role of State Laws
Authors: Sprow Kyle , Perna Frank M. , Leider Julien , Turner Lindsey , Piekarz-Porter Elizabeth M. , Michael Shannon L. , Brener Nancy , Chriqui Jamie F.
Published: April 2021

This study aimed to examine the association of state physical education (PE) laws (https://class.cancer.gov) with school policies addressing motor skill development, physical activity participation, and health-enhancing physical fitness (https://www.cdc.gov/healthyyouth/data/shpps/data.htm). National school-level data on PE standards were obtained from the 2014 School Health Policies and Practices Study of U.S. schools for analytical samples of 408–410 schools in 43 states. These data were linked to the Classification of Laws Associated with School Students data, which reflect the strength of state PE curriculum laws and the associated state PE curriculum standards. Logistic regressions and generalized linear models with a complementary log–log link examined associations between state law and school-level standards. Compared with having no state law, weak law (odds ratio [OR] = 5.07, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02–25.27) or strong law (OR = 2.96, 95% CI = 1.04–8.37) was associated with higher odds of school PE standards addressing motor skill development, whereas only strong state law was associated with higher prevalence of addressing achievement and maintenance of physical fitness (coefficient = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.12, 1.14). State laws were not associated with addressing physical activity participation. Schools were more likely to address motor skills and physical fitness development when states had strong PE laws.
The role of preoperative diffusion tensor imaging in predicting and improving functional outcome in pediatric patients undergoing epilepsy surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Leon-Rojas Jose , Cornell Isabel , Rojas-Garcia Antonio , D’Arco Felice , Panovska-Griffiths Jasmina , Cross Helen , Bisdas Sotirios
Published: April 2021

Objective:

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is a useful neuroimaging technique for surgical planning in adult patients. However, no systematic review has been conducted to determine its utility for pre-operative analysis and planning of Pediatric Epilepsy surgery. We sought to determine the benefit of pre-operative DTI in predicting and improving neurological functional outcome after epilepsy surgery in children with intractable epilepsy.

Methods:

A systematic review of articles in English using PubMed, EMBASE and Scopus databases, from inception to January 10, 2020 was conducted. All studies that used DTI as either predictor or direct influencer of functional neurological outcome (motor, sensory, language and/or visual) in pediatric epilepsy surgical candidates were included. Data extraction was performed by two blinded reviewers. Risk of bias of each study was determined using the QUADAS 2 Scoring System.

Results:

13 studies were included (6 case reports/series, 5 retrospective cohorts, and 2 prospective cohorts) with a total of 229 patients. Seven studies reported motor outcome; three reported motor outcome prediction with a sensitivity and specificity ranging from 80 to 85.7 and 69.6 to 100%, respectively; four studies reported visual outcome. In general, the use of DTI was associated with a high degree of favorable neurological outcomes after epilepsy surgery.

Conclusion:

Multiple studies show that DTI helps to create a tailored plan that results in improved functional outcome. However, more studies are required in order to fully assess its utility in pediatric patients. This is a desirable field of study because DTI offers a non-invasive technique more suitable for children.

Advances in knowledge:

This systematic review analyses, exclusively, studies of pediatric patients with drug-resistant epilepsy and provides an update of the evidence regarding the role of DTI, as part of the pre-operative armamentarium, in improving post-surgical neurological sequels and its potential for outcome prediction.
A program for determining the area of the object entering the IR sensor grid, as well as determining the dynamic characteristics
Authors: Kuznetsov Victor , Litvinenko Vladislav , Bykov Egor , Lukin Vadim
Published: April 2021

Currently, to evaluate the dynamic characteristics of objects, quite a large number of devices are used in the form of chronographs, which consist of various optical, thermal and laser sensors. Among the problems of these devices, the following can be distinguished: the lack of recording of the received data; the inaccessibility of taking into account the trajectory of the object flying in the sensor area, as well as taking into consideration the trajectory of the object during the approach to the device frame. The signal received from the infrared sensors is recorded in a separate document in txt format, in the form of a table. When you turn to the document, data is read from the current position of the input data stream in the specified list by an argument in accordance with the given condition. As a result of reading the data, it forms an array that includes N number of columns. The array is constructed in a such way that the first column includes time values, and columns 2...N- the value of voltage . The algorithm uses cycles that perform the function of deleting array rows where there is a fact of exceeding the threshold value in more than two columns, as well as rows where the threshold level was not exceeded. The modified array is converted into two new arrays, each of which includes data from different sensor frames. An array with the coordinates of the centers of the sensor operation zones was created to apply the Pythagorean theorem in three-dimensional space, which is necessary for calculating the exact distance between the zones. The time is determined by the difference in the response of the first and second sensor frames. Knowing the path and time, we are able to calculate the exact speed of the object. For visualization, the oscillograms of each sensor channel were displayed, and a chronograph model was created. The chronograph model highlights in purple the area where the threshold has been exceeded.
Theoretical Foundations of the Socio-Economic System of the Region
Authors: Monarhov Dmitriy
Published: April 2021

Economic transformations have had a significant impact on the systemic foundations of the functioning of regions as components of the state. At the same time, the development and finalization of a science-based approach to the concept of «socio-economic system of the region» is hindered by its multidimensionality and polystructure. The article analyzes and summarizes the scientific works of domestic and foreign scientists in the field of researching approaches to the essence of the regional socio-economic system. As a result of the study, the components forming the regional socio-economic system are identified. Using a systematic approach and analysis of structural elements, the region is considered from the perspective of a social economic system. The author offers definitions of the concepts of «socio-economic system» and «regional socio-economic system». As part of the study, the main objective of the functioning of the regional socio-economic system is defined as the most efficient use of available resources to ensure economic growth and as a result of improving the standard of living of citizens.
The quest for truth of Stephen Hawking
Authors: Driessen Alfred
Published: April 2021

With his bestselling publication, A Brief History of Time, Stephen Hawking introduced in 1988 a new genre by connecting modern science with the question of the existence of God. In the posthumous publication Brief Answers to the Big Questions, he continues with his quest for the ultimate truth. The current study presents a philosophical analysis of this search in terms of the classical philosophy of Aristotle and Aquinas. Causality is the central concept employed by Hawking. However, its meaning, in the modern scientific and philosophical literature, is limited to temporal causality in contrast to the view of classical philosophy. Only the latter one accepts causality from outside space and time, with other words, a reality transcending the material world. In a quote presented in the discussion, Hawking defines himself as an atheist. After a careful reading of his writings, however, doubts arise about his unbelief.
Theology and Science in Copernicus’ Universe
Authors: Giostra Alessandro
Published: April 2021

The publication of Copernicus’ On the Revolutions of the Heavenly Spheres (since now on referred to as Revolutions) marked the beginning of the Scientific Revolution. Christian doctrine played a key role for the emergence of the scientific turning point, that brought about the transition from a qualitative to a quantitative approach to natural phenomena. Although the Polish scientist was not a philosopher in the ordinary sense of the term, he shared with many other protagonists of modern science the idea of the universe as mathematical harmony created by God. In this sense, modern scientific thought completed the development that took place since the Scholastic Age. In the historical period between the XII and the XVII century, indeed, Christianity proved a fundamental factor for a considerable growth in natural knowledge.
Transhumanist immortality: Understanding the dream as a nightmare
Authors: García-Barranquero Pablo
Published: April 2021

This paper offers new arguments to reject the alleged dream of immortality. In order to do this, I firstly introduce an amendment to Michael Hauskeller’s approach of the “immortalist fallacy”. I argue that the conclusion “we (normally) do not want to live forever” does not follow from the premise “we (normally) do not want to die”. Next, I propose the philosophical turn from “normally” to “under these circumstances” to resolve this logical error. Then, I review strong philosophical critiques of this transhumanist purpose of immortality in the literature. There are two key questions related to the possibility of fulfilling this goal: the hard problem of consciousness and the personal identity dilemma. Finally, I defend a specific type of indefinite life and justify that it is more desirable than our current limited life.
Socio-Pedagogical Aspect of Socialization of Children with Special Needs in the Educational Environment
Authors:   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University, Shabaeva Nataliia
Published: April 2021

The article analyzes the acute social problem of today – the socialization of children with special needs in the educational environment (educational space, educational and correctional space, inclusive environment). The definition of the terms «socialization», «educational environment» is given. The essence and content of the concept of socialization of children with disabilities in an inclusive educational space are considered. The hypothetical statement that the improvement of the quality of life of children with disabilities can be achieved primarily by creating the most favorable conditions for socialization, given the fact that the initial socialization was unsuccessful due to objective victimhood (special needs) of the child. Emphasis is placed on the complexity and contradictions of the socialization process, because it largely depends on what social environment a person falls into. That is why a special role in the process of personality formation is acquired by the school correctional and educational space. The success of a child's socialization depends on the conditions created in the correctional and educational space and on the content of the latter. Effective socio-pedagogical conditions for the socialization of children with disabilities are analyzed.
Features of Formation of Ecologically Expedient Behavior at Children of Preschool Age
Authors:   SHEE ", Ivanchuk Sabina ,   Donbas State Pedagogical University"
Published: April 2021

The article reveals the peculiarities of the formation of environmentally sound behavior in preschool children. A number of logical stages of the child's mastery of environmentally sound behavior are identified. The most common forms of education of ecologically appropriate behavior in preschool institutions are singled out. It is proved that the effectiveness of the implementation of certain methodological approaches and technologies at the appropriate stages of work is provided by a set of conditions, the generalization of which allows us to identify the most optimal among them. It is emphasized that the current platform for the organization of the educational process in the preschool institution is the pedagogy of empowerment, the basis of which is the activity approach. Analysis of the results of approbation of empowerment technology in preschool institutions of Ukraine allows us to talk about its demand. Its advantages are considered by teachers to be a constructive position of the educator; a real opportunity to focus on children's decisions and actions; embedding in educational situations of a conscious and responsible position of each of their participants for their own way of life and behavior in the natural environment.
Theoretical Fundamentals of Children with Intellectual Disorders’ Extracurricular Education Practice in Ukraine
Authors:   National Pedagogical Dragomanov University, Kovalenko Viktoriia
Published: April 2021

The article examines the problem of theoretical foundations of people with intellectual disabilities’ out-of-school education, its special significance as a social institution, one of the main factors of socio-cultural, professional mobility of the individual, which are deprived in socio-economic terms in society. It is established that the specifics of the activities of out-of-school education as an element of society, designed to fulfil the state order for the socialization of children and to promote social protection of the individual, its social formation and development. It is established that the effective socio-pedagogical activity of out-of-school educational institutions is due to the content, technological and organizational-pedagogical components that allow for an individualized approach to the child in the process of socialization (given the peculiarities of its habilitation due to the type and severity of intellectual disability); to reveal and develop the adaptive potential of a child with intellectual disabilities in the process of collective creative work in the natural environment of peers; implement mechanisms for coordinated interaction of social partners. It is determined that the leading role in the organization of extracurricular educational institutions for children with intellectual disabilities is assigned to methodological work aimed at developing and updating the extracurricular education content and methods of various areas. The article focuses on the development of individual programs of group work to socialize schoolchildren with intellectual disabilities.
Optimization of Motor Activity of Schoolchildren as a Codtition of Physically Healthy Personality Formation
Authors:   State Higher Educational Institution Donbass State Teachers' Training University, Tsybulko Liudmyla , Vicko Serhii ,   SHEE "Donbas State Pedagogical University"
Published: April 2021

The problem of use of the motor games for the formation of the hoter harmoniously developed personality af the primary school age is considered in the article. The experience of the eminent scientists in the above – entioned problem is analyzed. The theoretical and metho-dologecal foundations of the system of Junior schoolchildren training by means ofphysical education, the general characteristics of the growing organism, the methods of development of the physical abilities, the pedagogical technology of the motor games activity development by means of the motor games are determind. The main modes of the motor games using in the physical culture lessons with junior schoolchildren are distinguished. The condifions of efficiency of the junior schoolchildren training process are defined as well. They have in full to solve the educational and health problems of the lessons, to remove mental and physical train by primary school students, to activate their motor activity. The authors present the results of the study of 122 Slovyansk general school pupils of the 3‐rd – 4-th forms. The possibilities of managment of the motor skills developing process of junior schoolchildren by the means of the special motor games with taking into account the number of repetitions ans rest are determind. It is proved, that the systematic use of sport games suitable varieties for development of motor abilities will contribute to the fomation of the physically healthy personality. The prospects fot futher researches in this area namely in elaborating the system of combination motor games and interactive teaching technologies introduction in the physical culture lessons are outlined.
Prospects for the Activities of State Bodies on the Social Adaptation of Internally Displaced Persons
Authors:   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University, Lukanov Dmytro , Syomkina Inna ,   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University
Published: April 2021

The article considers the acute problems of the Ukrainian present – the social adaptation of internally displaced persons from the occupied territories of Donbass and Crimea. A brief analysis of the definition of the terms «internally displaced person», «social adaptation» is provided. Emphasis is placed on the need to improve state policy on the social adaptation of internally displaced persons, by involving migrants in solving problems related to social adaptation; improving the training and retraining of staff working with internally displaced persons; creation of a network of mutual assistance and development clubs for internally displaced persons; implementation of psychological, social and legal support for employed citizens on adaptation in the workplace; psychosocial support of children and youth from among internally displaced persons in educational institutions, conducting counseling and educational work with parents and persons replacing them; ensuring the functioning of the network of psychological rehabilitation rooms for forced migrants; information support of social adaptation of internally displaced persons in mass media (electronic, printed, radio, television); information assistance in the selection of options for temporary housing for internally displaced persons (hotels, rental housing for individuals, dormitories, office accommodation).
Scientific Approaches to Identifying Vulnerabilities and Separation Vulnerable Populations
Authors:   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University, Maltseva Olha
Published: April 2021

The article, based on the analysis of scientific sources and legal documents, summarizes the common modern scientific approaches to the definition of «vulnerability» and the identification of vulnerable groups. It is established that, depending on the field of scientific research, scientists have different approaches to defining the concept of vulnerability and the mechanisms of falling of individuals or groups of people into the category of vulnerable. Thus, for lawyers, vulnerability means the possibility of violating the rights of a certain category of people, for economists – getting into a situation where a person is limited in access to economic resources, which does not allow him to meet the «minimum level of quality of life». From the point of view of sociologists, vulnerability is inherent in individuals or groups that have certain socio-demographic characteristics or social status. For social workers, a sign of vulnerability is the presence of a difficult life situation. However, despite the diversity of scientific approaches to determining vulnerability, prevention of this phenomenon largely depends on the strategy and tactics of state regulation, on determining the priorities and directions of social policy adequate to the situation in our country, aimed at ensuring social protection and social security. Reforms, which are a necessary condition for stabilizing the development of society, should be aimed at increasing the level of social support, based on the needs (taking into account the income of recipients) and targeting (depending on social risks) in providing this support.
Use of Information and Communication Technologies in Preventive Social Work
Authors:   State Institution Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University, Stepanenko Viktoriia
Published: April 2021

The article reveals the main means, forms and possibilities of using information and communication technologies in preventive social work with various categories of the population. It is noted that the need for the use of information and communication technologies by social workers in the prevention of negative social phenomena is due to the informatization of society, the strategic importance of ensuring free access of various categories of the population to information, the need for personal information culture, healthy lifestyle. It is noted that the most common mass, informational, methodological and research measures for the prevention of negative social phenomena in the activities of social workers today cannot do without the use of information and communication technologies. Information and communication technologies of professional activity of a social worker are defined as a technology of designing and creating an information product for social and socio-educational purposes. The advantages and disadvantages of using information and communication technologies in preventive social work are considered. The essence of the social services of prevention, information support of the system of providing social services, social advertising in the context of the use of information and communication technologies in the professional activity of a social worker has been determined.