bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Study on Bearing Capacity and Bulging of the Composite Stone Column
Authors: Salam Mahmood A. , Wang Qiyao
Published: March 2021

Background:

In weak clay soil, a proper ground improvement technique using a stone column can be limited by the absence of sufficient lateral confining pressure. Stone columns should be strengthened to provide the minimum required lateral confining pressure.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to find out the significant improvement of the composite stone columns compared to the conventional stone columns by comparing the bearing capacity enhancement and the treated soil stiffness for both models. Composite stone columns with a solid concrete part at the top-head not only enhance the bearing capacity of the stone columns but also decrease the bulging failure and increase the surrounding soil stiffness.

Methods:

The 2D finite element analyses were carried out to simulate an experimental study conducted by Ambily and Gandhi on conventional stone columns. ABAQUS software program with the Mohr-Coulomb criterion for soft clay soil and stones was used in the simulation. First, a preliminary numerical model was created to simulate the experiment model. Similar material properties, boundary conditions, and constraints were considered in the preliminary model. The results were compared, and they were similar to the experimental results. During this process, the efficiency of the numerical model was confirmed. Second, the same numerical model was performed for the composite stone columns without modifying the material properties, boundary conditions, and constraints of the preliminary model. The parameters that influence the composite stone column bearing capacity as the length of the concrete part, the stress concentration ratio, and the shear strength of the surrounding soil, were all studied.

Results:

The data obtained from the aforesaid study was used along with ABAQUS software package. Compared to existing work, our approach achieves a significant correlation, and it indicates that the solid concrete part increases the surrounding soil stiffness, in addition to increasing the bearing capacity of the stone column. The solid concrete part resists bulging deformation by moving the bulging failure downward where the confining pressure is larger. The stress concentration ratio increases with the length of the solid concrete part.

Conclusion:

Composite stone columns have a significant influence on the improvement of weak clay soil and increase the bearing capacity of soil under superstructures. Furthermore, they also increase the stiffness of weak soil around the column. The magnitude of weak soil improvement by using composite stone columns is greater than conventional stone columns. Therefore, composite stone columns are more efficient and effective than conventional stone columns.
Ethnic Differences of Corneal Parameters: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alsaqr Ali , Fagehi Raied , Abu Sharha Ali , Alkhudair May , Alshabrami Abrar , Muammar Alhanouf Bin , Abdulwahed Sultan , Alshehri Ali
Published: March 2021

Purpose:

To investigate the ethnic differences of corneal parameters in Arabs and other ethnicities.

Methods:

This study recruited 250 Saudi Arabian participants, 18–45 years of age. The McMonnies questionnaire was used to exclude participants with dry eye. The KR8800 auto refractometer (Topcon, Japan) was used to measure the refractive error. Oculus Keratograph 4 topography was used to assess 16 corneal parameters, including the k-readings, horizontal visible iris diameter, mean eccentricity index, asphericity, corneal shape factor, corneal flattening factor, sagittal height, sagittal curvature, and vertical palpebral aperture.

Results:

A statistically significant difference was found between male and female participants. Corneal parameters were compared to other ethnicities, including Caucasians and Asians, and those of Mongoloid origin. The horizontal visible iris diameter was wider in Saudi Arabians than in Asians but similar to Caucasians. The sagittal height was deeper and the corneal shape factor was higher than in the other ethnicities, and the eccentricity index was lower than that in Caucasians and Asians of Mongoloid origin.

Conclusion:

Our data provided normative corneal parameters of Saudi Arabians that may be useful for ophthalmic clinicians and designers of contact lenses. Furthermore, the parameters suggest that the corneal characteristics of Arabians are distinct from those of major ethnicities.
Clear Cell Acanthoma of the Mammary Region: A Case Report
Authors: Naik Piyu Parth
Published: March 2021

Clear cell acanthoma, also known as Degos acanthoma, is a rare benign epithelial skin tumor. Generally, it appears as a solitary lesion on the lower legs, but in this case, it appeared on the right mammary area near the areola, which is an exceedingly rare and exciting finding. This lesion's clinical features revealed elevated dome-shaped plaque with surface lobulations and shiny pink color with a size of 9 mm. Dermoscopy was characteristic with blood vessels lined up in a strings pattern. Excision biopsy was done as a therapeutic measure. Histopathology showed a collection of glycogen-containing cells in the epidermis consistent with the diagnosis of clear cell acanthoma. Classical dermoscopy features and diagnostic histology were exemplary for a case report.
Addiction Potential and its Correlates Among Medical Students
Authors: Amiri Mohammad , Khosravi Ahmad , Chaman Reza , Sadeghi Zakieh , Sadeghi Elham , Raei Mehdi
Published: March 2021

Background:

Drug dependency can be seen in all occupations, educational levels, and socioeconomic classes, and it is one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders worldwide. The purpose of this study was to determine the addiction potential status and its correlates among medical students.

Methods:

In 2019, a total of 500 students were selected randomly from Shahroud University of Medical Sciences and asked to complete Addiction Potential Scale and Attitude to Addiction Questionnaires. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, Chi-square, t-test and Pearson correlation coefficient and linear regression model at the significant level of 0.05.

Results:

The mean score of addiction potential was 32.7±17.2. In the majority of the students (62.8%), the addiction potential status was low. Most of the students (66.8%) had used no tobacco or addictive substance. There was a significant relationship between addiction potentialwithgender, marital status, student's current place of residence, student's economic status, student's economic activity, along with education and semester (P≤0.05). In the regression model, 6 predictor factors of the knowledge and awareness of drugs, tendency to use drugs, field of study, history of drug use, alcohol and smoking history had significant relationships with potential addiction (P≤0.05).

Conclusion:

Given the relationship between potential addiction score and drug use tendency and noting that more than one-third of students had moderate and high drug addiction, more attention to this issue and interventional measures can be effective in reducing the tendency to drug abuse, and control of drug abuse.
Implementasi Pembelajaran Pendidikan Agama Islam Dalam Keluarga Santri
Authors: Izzah Lathifatul
Published: March 2021

This paper aims to describe and analyze the process and implications of the implementation of Islamic religious education learning in santri families in Wonolelo village, Pleret district, Bantul district. Qualitative methods with the type of case study research are used to reveal these expectations. Data collection was carried out by observation, interviews, and documentation. The collected data were analyzed by analytical induction.

The process of implementing Islamic religious education learning in the santri family can be carried out through planning, implementation and evaluation. The third process can be successful, influenced by various factors. Among them are materials, methods, environment, technology, and cooperation or cohesiveness between family members, especially both parents. Finally, family education can have an impact or have implications for the character of family members, especially children as themselves, relating to Allah, the Lord of the Universe, God's fellow creatures.

 

Keywords: Implimentation, learning, Islamic religious education, santri families
Penguatan Karakter Nasionalisme Generasi Alphamelalui Living Values Education Program (LVEP)
Authors: Apriani An-nisa , Sari Indah Perdana
Published: March 2021

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memaparkan tentang cara menguatkan karakter nasionalisme generasi alpha di era digital melalui Living Values Education Program (LVEP). Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini merupakan penelitian studi kepustakaan. Data dalam penelitian ini merupakan data sekunder yang berupa buku-buku ilmiah, jurnal ilmiah, laporan penelitian, dan sumber lain yang relevan. Teknik analisis data dalam penelitian meliputi tiga tahapan, organize, synthesize, dan identify. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa nilai-nilai LVEPyang mencakup nilai kerjasama, kebebasan, kebahagiaan, kejujuran, kerendahan hati, cinta, kedamaian, penghargaan, tanggung jawab, kesederhanaan, toleransi,dan persatuan memiliki relevansi yang kuat dalam penanaman karakter nasionalisme generasi alpha di era digital. Aktivitas nilai-nilai LVEP yang meliputi kegiatan refleksi, berimajinasi, berdialog, berkomunikasi, berkreasi, membuat tulisan, menyatakan diri lewat seni, dan bermain dengan nilai-nilai yang diajarkan dapat dijadikan sebagai program inovatif dan kreatif dalam proses pembelajaran yang bertujuan untuk penguatan karakter nasionalisme anak-anak generasi alpha di era digital darisajian informasi dan budaya yang tidak sesuai dengan nilai-nilai pancasila.
Using the Ensuring Quality Information for Patients Tool to Assess Patient Information on Appendicitis Websites: Systematic Search and Evaluation
Authors: Ghani Shahi , Fan Ka Siu , Fan Ka Hay , Lenti Lorenzo , Raptis Dimitri
Published: March 2021

Background

Appendicitis is a common surgical problem among the young adult population, who are likely to use the internet to obtain medical information. This information may determine the health-seeking behavior of an individual and may delay medical attention. Little is known regarding the quality of patient information on appendicitis on the internet, as this has not been previously studied.

Objective

The aim of our study was to identify the quality of information regarding appendicitis on websites intended for the public.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of information on appendicitis available online using the following 4 search terms in google: “appendicitis,” “appendix,” “appendectomy,” and “appendicectomy”. The top 100 websites of each search term were assessed using the validated Ensuring Quality Information for Patients (EQIP) tool (score 0-36).

Results

A total of 119 websites met the eligibility criteria for evaluation. The overall median EQIP score for all websites was 20 (IQR 18-22). More than half the websites originated from the USA (65/119, 54.6%), and 45.4% (54/119) of all websites originated from hospitals, although 43% (23/54) of these did not mention qualitative risks from surgery. Incidence rates were only provided for complications and mortality in 12.6% (15/119) and 3.3% (4/119) of all websites, respectively.

Conclusions

The assessment of the quality and readability of websites concerning appendicitis by the EQIP tool indicates that most sites online were of poor credibility, with minimal information regarding complication rates and mortality. To improve education and awareness of appendicitis, there is an immediate need for more informative and patient-centered websites that are more compatible with international quality standards.
A Mental Health–Informed Physical Activity Intervention for First Responders and Their Partners Delivered Using Facebook: Mixed Methods Pilot Study
Authors: McKeon Grace , Steel Zachary , Wells Ruth , Newby Jill , Hadzi-Pavlovic Dusan , Vancampfort Davy , Rosenbaum Simon
Published: March 2021

Background

First responders (eg, police, firefighters, and paramedics) are at high risk of experiencing poor mental health. Physical activity interventions can help reduce symptoms and improve mental health in this group. More research is needed to evaluate accessible, low-cost methods of delivering programs. Social media may be a potential platform for delivering group-based physical activity interventions.

Objective

This study aims to examine the feasibility and acceptability of delivering a mental health–informed physical activity program for first responders and their self-nominated support partners. This study also aims to assess the feasibility of applying a novel multiple time series design and to explore the impact of the intervention on mental health symptoms, sleep quality, quality of life, and physical activity levels.

Methods

We co-designed a 10-week web-based physical activity program delivered via a private Facebook group. We provided education and motivation around different topics weekly (eg, goal setting, overcoming barriers to exercise, and reducing sedentary behavior) and provided participants with a Fitbit. A multiple time series design was applied to assess psychological distress levels, with participants acting as their own control before the intervention.

Results

In total, 24 participants (12 first responders and 12 nominated support partners) were recruited, and 21 (88%) completed the postassessment questionnaires. High acceptability was observed in the qualitative interviews. Exploratory analyses revealed significant reductions in psychological distress during the intervention. Preintervention and postintervention analysis showed significant improvements in quality of life (P=.001; Cohen d=0.60); total depression, anxiety, and stress scores (P=.047; Cohen d=0.35); and minutes of walking (P=.04; Cohen d=0.55). Changes in perceived social support from family (P=.07; Cohen d=0.37), friends (P=.10; Cohen d=0.38), and sleep quality (P=.28; Cohen d=0.19) were not significant.

Conclusions

The results provide preliminary support for the use of social media and a multiple time series design to deliver mental health–informed physical activity interventions for first responders and their support partners. Therefore, an adequately powered trial is required.

Trial Registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN): 12618001267246; https://anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?ACTRN=12618001267246.
Electronic Tools to Bridge the Language Gap in Health Care for People Who Have Migrated: Systematic Review
Authors: Thonon Frédérique , Perrot Swati , Yergolkar Abhijna Vithal , Rousset-Torrente Olivia , Griffith James W , Chassany Olivier , Duracinsky Martin
Published: March 2021

Background

People who have migrated or with a language barrier may face significant hurdles in accessing health care. Some apps have been specifically developed to facilitate the dialogue between health care professionals and people who have migrated who have low-level language proficiency or to promote health among people who have migrated.

Objective

We conducted a systematic review to investigate development, acceptability, and effectiveness of these types of apps.

Methods

We conducted a search of PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases. We included all study designs (qualitative, quantitative, mixed) reporting development, evaluation of efficacy, or acceptability of apps facilitating dialogue with a health professional or promoting health for people who have migrated, minorities, or tourists with a language barrier, using any outcome. Two researchers selected the studies independently. We collected general information about the app, information about health literacy and cultural adaptation, information about the development of the app, evidence on acceptability or efficacy, and information on app use. Data were collected by 2 researchers independently and results were reviewed to verify agreement and reported according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis).

Results

Positive results for translation apps included better communication, but with possible limitations, and reduced consultation time. Positive results for health promotion apps included improved quality of life and better management of chronic illnesses.

Conclusions

Overall, the apps had good levels of acceptability, though only half had their efficacy evaluated. In those evaluations, the endpoints were mostly related to reported behavior change and knowledge improvement, which is common for evaluations of health promotion programs. In the future, as more health apps are created, it is essential that apps that claim to have a public health objective undergo a rigorous evaluation of their acceptability, efficacy, and actual use. Indicators of outcomes beyond changes in behavior and knowledge should be reported; change in health status or access to care should also be reported. This systematic review has helped us note the characteristics associated with improved acceptability and efficacy, which can be helpful for the development of future apps.
mHealth Interventions for Self-Harm: Scoping Review
Authors: Cliffe Bethany , Tingley Jessica , Greenhalgh Isobel , Stallard Paul
Published: March 2021

Background

Self-harm is a growing issue with increasing prevalence rates; however, individuals who self-harm do not often receive treatment. Mobile health (mHealth) interventions are a possible solution to some of the barriers that individuals face when seeking support, and they have also been found to be effective in improving mental health. Thus far, reviews of mHealth interventions for self-harm have been limited by study type. Therefore, we determined that a broader scoping review will provide a more exhaustive understanding of mHealth interventions for self-harm.

Objective

This scoping review aims to identify mHealth interventions for self-harm within the literature, understand the types and features of interventions that have been developed and evaluated, highlight research findings around mHealth interventions for self-harm, and determine what outcomes are typically used to assess the efficacy of interventions.

Methods

A search was conducted using Embase, PubMed, PsycINFO, PsycEXTRA, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Studies were included if they described an mHealth intervention designed to have a direct (ie, if the intervention was designed for self-harm or for people who self-harm) or indirect (ie, if self-harm was measured as an outcome) treatment effect and if the paper was available in English. There were no exclusion criteria based on the study design.

Results

A total of 36 papers were included in the review, and most of them were randomized controlled trials published within the last 4 years. The interventions were mostly smartphone apps and calling or texting services, with 62% (21/34) having underlying therapeutic models to inform the intervention content. They were generally shown to be promising and appealing, but only 5 were widely available for use. Outcomes focused on a reduction of self-harm and suicidality, mood, and the users’ experiences of the intervention. Samples were typically nondiverse, and there was limited variety in the study designs and in the measurements of self-harm recovery.

Conclusions

Promising and appealing mHealth interventions have been developed but are not widely available. Research could benefit from greater diversity as well as a broader and more nuanced understanding of recovery from self-harm.
A Theory- and Evidence-Based Digital Intervention Tool for Weight Loss Maintenance (NoHoW Toolkit): Systematic Development and Refinement Study
Authors: Marques Marta M , Matos Marcela , Mattila Elina , Encantado Jorge , Duarte Cristiana , Teixeira Pedro J , Stubbs R James , Sniehotta Falko F , Ermes Miikka , Harjumaa Marja , Leppänen Juha , Välkkynen Pasi , Silva Marlene N , Ferreira Cláudia , Carvalho Sérgio , Palmeira Lara , Horgan Graham , Heitmann Berit Lilienthal , Evans Elizabeth H , Palmeira António L
Published: March 2021

Background

Many weight loss programs show short-term effectiveness, but subsequent weight loss maintenance is difficult to achieve. Digital technologies offer a promising means of delivering behavior change approaches at low costs and on a wide scale. The Navigating to a Healthy Weight (NoHoW) project, which was funded by the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program, aimed to develop, test, and evaluate a digital toolkit designed to promote successful long-term weight management. The toolkit was tested in an 18-month, large-scale, international, 2×2 factorial (motivation and self-regulation vs emotion regulation) randomized controlled trial that was conducted on adults with overweight or obesity who lost ≥5% of their body weight in the preceding 12 months before enrollment into the intervention.

Objective

This paper aims to describe the development of the NoHoW Toolkit, focusing on the logic models, content, and specifications, as well as the results from user testing.

Methods

The toolkit was developed by using a systematic approach, which included the development of the theory-based logic models, the selection of behavior change techniques, the translation of these techniques into a web-based app (NoHoW Toolkit components), technical development, and the user evaluation and refinement of the toolkit.

Results

The toolkit included a set of web-based tools and inputs from digital tracking devices (smart scales and activity trackers) and modules that targeted weight, physical activity, and dietary behaviors. The final toolkit comprised 34 sessions that were distributed through 15 modules and provided active content over a 4-month period. The motivation and self-regulation arm consisted of 8 modules (17 sessions), the emotion regulation arm was presented with 7 modules (17 sessions), and the combined arm received the full toolkit (15 modules; 34 sessions). The sessions included a range of implementations, such as videos, testimonies, and questionnaires. Furthermore, the toolkit contained 5 specific data tiles for monitoring weight, steps, healthy eating, mood, and sleep.

Conclusions

A systematic approach to the development of digital solutions based on theory, evidence, and user testing may significantly contribute to the advancement of the science of behavior change and improve current solutions for sustained weight management. Testing the toolkit by using a 2×2 design provided a unique opportunity to examine the effect of motivation and self-regulation and emotion regulation separately, as well as the effect of their interaction in weight loss maintenance.
Presentation, Treatment, and Natural Course of Severe Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections Measured by a Smartphone App: Observational and Feasibility Study
Authors: Vellinga Akke , Farrell Karen , Fallon Roisin , Hare Daniel , Sutton-Fitzpatrick Una , Cormican Martin
Published: March 2021

Background

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common conditions in women. Current information on the presentation, management, and natural course of the infection is based on paper diaries filled out and subsequently posted by patients.

Objective

The aim of this study is to explore the feasibility of a smartphone app to assess the natural course and management of UTIs.

Methods

A smartphone app was developed to collect data from study participants presenting with symptoms of UTI in general practice. After initial demographic and treatment information, symptom severity was recorded by the patient after a reminder on their smartphone, which occurred twice daily for a period of 7 days or until symptom resolution.

Results

A total of 181 women aged 18-76 years downloaded the smartphone app. The duration of symptoms was determined from the results of 178 participants. All patients submitted a urine sample, most patients were prescribed an antibiotic (163/181, 90.1%), and 38.7% (70/181) of the patients had a positive culture. Moderately bad or worse symptoms lasted a mean of 3.8 (SD 3.2; median 4) days, and 70.2% (125/178) of the patients indicated that they were cured on day 4 after consultation. This compares with other research assessing symptom duration and management of UTIs using paper diaries. Patients were very positive about the usability of the smartphone app and often found the reminders supportive. On the basis of the feedback and the analysis of the data, some suggestions for improvement were made.

Conclusions

Smartphone diaries for symptom scores over the course of infections are an efficient and acceptable means of collecting data in research.
Usability of Electronic Health Record–Generated Discharge Summaries: Heuristic Evaluation
Authors: Tremoulet Patrice D , Shah Priyanka D , Acosta Alisha A , Grant Christian W , Kurtz Jon T , Mounas Peter , Kirchhoff Michael , Wade Elizabeth
Published: March 2021

Background

Obtaining accurate clinical information about recent acute care visits is extremely important for outpatient providers. However, documents used to communicate this information are often difficult to use. This puts patients at risk of adverse events. Elderly patients who are seen by more providers and have more care transitions are especially vulnerable.

Objective

This study aimed to (1) identify the information about elderly patients’ recent acute care visits needed to coordinate their care, (2) use this information to assess discharge summaries, and (3) provide recommendations to help improve the quality of electronic health record (EHR)–generated discharge summaries, thereby increasing patient safety.

Methods

A literature review, clinician interviews, and a survey of outpatient providers were used to identify and categorize data needed to coordinate care for recently discharged elderly patients. Based upon those data, 2 guidelines for creating useful discharge summaries were created. The new guidelines, along with 17 previously developed medical documentation usability heuristics, were applied to assess 4 simulated elderly patient discharge summaries.

Results

The initial research effort yielded a list of 29 items that should always be included in elderly patient discharge summaries and a list of 7 “helpful, but not always necessary” items. Evaluation of 4 deidentified elderly patient discharge summaries revealed that none of the documents contained all 36 necessary items; between 14 and 18 were missing. The documents each had several other issues, and they differed significantly in organization, layout, and formatting.

Conclusions

Variations in content and structure of discharge summaries in the United States make them unnecessarily difficult to use. Standardization would benefit both patients, by lowering the risk of care transition–related adverse events, and outpatient providers, by helping reduce frustration that can contribute to burnout. In the short term, acute care providers can help improve the quality of their discharge summaries by working with EHR vendors to follow recommendations based upon this study. Meanwhile, additional human factors work should determine the most effective way to organize and present information in discharge summaries, to facilitate effective standardization.
Structure and Functioning of Acute Inpatient Psychiatric Units in Spain: Qualitative Study
Authors: Rodriguez-Jimenez Roberto , Corripio Iluminada , Campos Ricardo , Páramo Mario , Franco-Martin Manuel , Segura Estefanía , González Sergio , Martínez-Raga José
Published: March 2021

Background

As a consequence of the decentralization of health care provision to the different Regions (called Autonomous Communities) in Spain, different health care models and resources have been developed for psychiatric patients. It would be very useful to obtain comprehensive and comparative data on health care models, resources, and activity of acute inpatient psychiatric units (AIPUs) as a key part of mental health systems.

Objective

The aim of this study was to determine the current state of AIPUs in Spain through a national scorecard that allows the current situation to be visualized in terms of resources, processes, and outputs.

Methods

A 104-item online questionnaire was sent to all the AIPUs of the different Regions in Spain. It was divided into 11 sections, including data on the resources, processes, and outputs of the AIPUs plus general data, an indicator dashboard, and good practices.

Results

The questionnaire was completed by 60.0% (117/195) of the AIPUs invited to participate. The information collected has allowed us to obtain a detailed snapshot of the current situation of AIPUs in Spain at the levels of infrastructure and material resources, staffing, organization and activity of the units, coordination with other units, guidelines, processes and protocols used, participation and communication with patients and their families, teaching activity, and research linked to the units.

Conclusions

This project aimed to help understand the general situation of AIPUs in Spain and its different Regions, contribute to enhancing the benchmarking and harmonization among Spanish Regions, and provide data for future comparisons with other countries.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

RR1-10.2196/26214
Test, Trace, and Put on the Blockchain?: A Viewpoint Evaluating the Use of Decentralized Systems for Algorithmic Contact Tracing to Combat a Global Pandemic
Authors: Platt Moritz , Hasselgren Anton , Román-Belmonte Juan Manuel , Tuler de Oliveira Marcela , De la Corte-Rodríguez Hortensia , Delgado Olabarriaga Sílvia , Rodríguez-Merchán E Carlos , Mackey Tim Ken
Published: March 2021

The enormous pressure of the increasing case numbers experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to a variety of novel digital systems designed to provide solutions to unprecedented challenges in public health. The field of algorithmic contact tracing, in particular, an area of research that had previously received limited attention, has moved into the spotlight as a crucial factor in containing the pandemic. The use of digital tools to enable more robust and expedited contact tracing and notification, while maintaining privacy and trust in the data generated, is viewed as key to identifying chains of transmission and close contacts, and, consequently, to enabling effective case investigations. Scaling these tools has never been more critical, as global case numbers have exceeded 100 million, as many asymptomatic patients remain undetected, and as COVID-19 variants begin to emerge around the world. In this context, there is increasing attention on blockchain technology as a part of systems for enhanced digital algorithmic contact tracing and reporting. By analyzing the literature that has emerged from this trend, the common characteristics of the designs proposed become apparent. An archetypal system architecture can be derived, taking these characteristics into consideration. However, assessing the utility of this architecture using a recognized evaluation framework shows that the added benefits and features of blockchain technology do not provide significant advantages over conventional centralized systems for algorithmic contact tracing and reporting. From our study, it, therefore, seems that blockchain technology may provide a more significant benefit in other areas of public health beyond contact tracing.
Design Tools for New Dwelling Dynamics
Authors: Capua Alberto de , Mussari Ester R.
Published: March 2021

The theme of Public Residential Building turned back to the center of the national debate. However, the reasons of this are attributable to not so favourable circumstances: we needed a pandemic lockdown to understand that the houses we live in, no longer meet our needs. Beyond the “symptomatology” more widely perceived as the lack of a balcony or a room, what a more careful eye has felt is the clear obsolescence relative to the home/house-system: for more than half a century, we continued to design residential spaces following standards and regulations little attentive to change and not calibrated on contemporary society. These are the reasons why we need an “house reform”, where design follows societal changes and revolutions such as globalization and digitalization, where therefore the fundamental paradigm could be “becoming”. In this perspective and applying the idea to the project, which became flexible and adaptable, Northern Europe can teach us how to think open and, mixing it with the Mediterranean resilience, we could propose a renovate design methodology for the new dwelling dynamics.
The reliability of steel-concrete beams in the process of reconstruction
Authors: Dolganov Andrey I.
Published: March 2021

Introduction. The author solves a number of problems, including the substantiation of the required reliability level for steel-concrete beams in a reconstructed building, design parameters applicable to steel-concrete beams, use of probabilistic methods in the reliability assessment of steel-concrete beams, and reliability assessment of steel-concrete beams. Materials and methods. The engineering data, used in the reliability analysis, included steel beam examination and testing results, obtained by the Koucherenko Central Research and Development Institute of Steel Structures in 2017. The analysis was performed for the cases that took account of or failed to take account of the behaviour of a cast-in-plaсe reinforced concrete floor slab. A method of statistic simulation has proven that the probability values of snow loads set for Moscow by Construction regulations 20.13330.2016 are far below the true ones. This discrepancy reduces the reliability of the contour beams of the construction facility analyzed in this article. Results. B-12, B-45, B-49 and B-61 types of beams were used to compare the testing results with probabilistic calculations. Selected calculation results are provided in the article. An 8 mm deflection, caused by the temporary design load of 2.4 kN/m2 ensures the normal operation of a structure with a probability of 0.9973. Conclusions. A comparison between experimentally and analytically obtained deflection values has proven that the design model must have steel-concrete beams, rather than steel ones. Whenever a building structure is designed, its reliability level must be identified. The reliability of structures, having any criticality rating, depends on the values of the resistance probability in terms of their construction materials and the loads applied to them. Contour steel-concrete beams comply with the technology requirements and reliability values pre-set in the project documentation. Calculation results are validated by their convergence with the experimental data. Probabilistic methods should become a must in structural design. This measure can reduce the risk of failure or cut project costs.
Constructing the digital identity of University of Tsukuba, Japan, in the multi-language media space
Authors:   Larisa G. Vikulova Moscow City University, Vikulova Larisa G. , Ageeva Natalia S. ,   Natalia S. Ageeva Moscow City University
Published: March 2021

The research defines the key factors of shaping a digital identity of a modern university and its representation in media discourse. The object of analysis is the official website of University of Tsukuba designed in Japanese and English. University of Tsukuba functions as a model of a university-corporation and actively implements mission 3.0. in its practices. A university website is viewed as an ensemble of promotion texts that are applied as a tool for promoting the university brand and positioning a university in the international educational space. The comparative analysis of the website architecture and mission of the university in English and Japanese reveals the key role of the addressee in digital communication. It was discovered that the university website uses various means of defining the target audience constructing its image portrait based on certain linguistic and cultural characteristics.
Sociolinguistic variation of parameters of oral spontaneous text
Authors:   Ekaterina S. Khudyakova Perm State University, Khudyakova Ekaterina S.
Published: March 2021

The article examines the social factors influence on prosodic manifestation of syntactic and macrosyntactic units. The data collected during suprasegmental analysis of spontaneous speech are used, which are directly related to the syntactic level, namely: the average length of a phrase in words and in syntagmas and the average length of a syntagma in phonetic words, as well as parameters associated with the design of the whole text: the number of composition blocks in the text, their length in phrases, the length of the whole text in phrases and words. The results of statistical modeling of the influence of the factors "age", "type of education", "level of education" and "gender" clearly indicate that the factors "type of education" and "gender" significantly influence the variation of syntactic and macrosyntactic parameters of an oral text. The factor "type of education" significantly affects the number of phrases in the text and the length of the text block in phrases – both parameters are significantly higher for the speakers who specialize in Humanities compared to those who specialize in Sciences. The length of the syntagma depends on the speaker’ gender – syntagmas produced by male speakers are longer.
Metaphorical models verbalized in English-language professional advertising discourse: Artifact metaphorical model
Authors:   Seda B. Tsoloeva Pyatigorsk State University, Tsoloeva Seda B.
Published: March 2021

The article presents the results of the English-language professional advertising discourse analysis regarding the use of metaphorical models. The research material consisted of 500 English-language advertising texts from The Art of Design magazine, posted on the Internet, thematically related to the field of design and architecture. In the course of the research, it was found that the metaphor structure contains a metaphorical core and a metaphorical periphery, which convey the main and additional semantic metaphorical load in the context. The author identifies the artifact metaphorical model Design product → Artifact that verbalizes the transfer at the semantic level based on the idea that a particular design product is thought of as the result of labor, the creation of human hands. The paper presents statistical data that determines the frequency of use of the artifact metaphor within the analyzed sample, according to which, the artifact metaphorical model is present in 215 examples of advertising texts, which is 43% of the sample material.
Semantic development of the cognate nouns suit and suite  in the English language
Authors:   Mariya A. Zakharova Volgograd State Institute of Arts and Culture, Zakharova Mariya A.  , Isakovich Ekaterina A.  ,   Ekaterina A. Isakovich Volgograd State Institute of Arts and Culture
Published: March 2021

The paper presents the results of comparative analysis of the semantic structure of the lexemes suit and suite as intralingual cognates. The development of the main semantic clusters constituting the semanteme of suit are considered. The archisemes ‘feudal law’, ‘pursuit; prosecution, legal process’, ʻfollowing, train, suiteʼ and ʻset, seriesʼ that define the contemporary structure of the semanteme are considered on the basis of lexicographic material. The meanings that constitute the semanteme of suite are studied. The archisemes ‘set’ and ‘succession’ that determine further semantic derivation in the semanteme of suite have been identified in the course of analysis of the dictionary definitions and contextual uses of the lexeme. Lexicographic analysis of the material enabled to conclude that there was redistribution of particular word meanings between the semantemes of the earlier borrowing (suit) and the later one (suite), which in turn determined the course of further semantic development of the lexemes. The paper also considers some cases of inclusion of suite in particular systems of technical lexis. A possible course of further semantic derivation of the lexeme has been outlined.
The conative function of constructions expressing surprise in Swedish, English and Russian
Authors:   Maria N. Kovaleva Northern (Arctic) Federal University named after M.V. Lomonosov, Kovaleva Maria N.
Published: March 2021

The article presents the results of a comprehensive comparative analysis of the concept “surprise” in Swedish, English and Russian fiction books manifested by syntactic constructions performing the conative function. Three Swedish fiction novels by Selma Lagerlöf and their translations into English and Russian were chosen as the material for the study. 135 complexes of examples (1 complex = 1 Swedish token + 1 corresponding English token + 1 corresponding Russian token) were selected using continuous sampling method. First, it was found that the function could be manifested in 2 directions (modes): extroversion and introversion. Second, 2 syntactic patterns expressing the function were identified: imperatives and vocatives. The analysis of their interaction in the three languages showed the following results. In Swedish and Russian, the introverted imperative pattern was used while in English modal verb+infinitive extraverted pattern was mostly used. As far as vocatives, similarly to imperatives, both extroversive and introversive modes were present. However, in contrast to imperative patterns, introversive mode prevailed in vocatives in all the three languages. Further studies might involve comparative analysis of the modes and patterns manifesting surprise in other languages of origin.
A propos of the composition of Russian / English  legal terminology: nedvizhimost / realty
Authors:   Yulia S. Kravchuk MGIMO University, Kravchuk Yulia S. 
Published: March 2021

The article focuses upon key legal terms and their functions within Russian / English legal terminology, namely nedvizhimost / realty. The research aims to determine key legal terms that tend to form the terminology, analyze their meaning and structure, as well as the means of terminology enlargement. The paper covers current theoretical issues on the topic, features the patterns of legal terminology nedvizhimost / realty with the specific patterns in two languages. The research based on dictionaries of law data and professional literature concludes that Russian legal terms define nedvizhimost as the material object whereas English legal terms represent realty not only as the object but mainly as the rights for it. Outweighing consubstantial terms in number both Russian and English legal terms stand for highly specialized terms with poly-lexemic structures, emphasizing the significant function of the attributive parts, that can either co-exist with the basic term (out of their structure) or displace them.
As casas de Ceilândia
Authors: Peixoto Elane , Oliveira Adriana Mara Vaz de , Waldvogel Alana Silva
Published: March 2021

Este artigo dedica-se ao morar em Ceilândia, a cidade-satélite com maior população do Distrito Federal. Ele remete à sua criação em 1970, com a transferência de 80 mil pessoas, vindas da Vila do IAPI. Essa transferência previa a construção de casas provisórias utilizando o material das casas desmontadas da vila referida e que, com o passar do tempo, seriam substituídas por casas de alvenaria. Passados cinquenta anos de sua criação, Ceilândia pouco remete ao seu início: não se limitou ao traçado original, novos bairros se somaram e suas primeiras moradias foram substituídas e alteradas, para permitir o ajuste às demandas das famílias. A pesquisa entende o morar em duas dimensões complementares: a cidade e a casa, por isso se dedica à história da cidade e, em seguida, às moradias de seus habitantes. Para abordar esses dois aspectos, foi entrevistado o urbanista responsável pelo projeto de Ceilândia, além de analisadas as narrativas de pioneiros disponíveis no Arquivo Público do Distrito Federal, bem como os depoimentos e desenhos de estudantes do Ensino Fundamental, coletados especialmente com o fito de esboçar um quadro do morar em Ceilândia.
Mantenimiento industrial y su administración
Authors: Montilla Montaña Carlos Alberto
Published: March 2021

Este libro texto tiene como propósito iniciar a estudiantes de Ingeniería y Tecnología en la teoría y práctica básica de la administración del Mantenimiento industrial, campo sumamente importante en las organizaciones productivas modernas y donde se ocupan, en Colombia, la mayoría de los egresados de Ingeniería y afines. Este libro es la continuación natural del trabajo iniciado hace un tiempo con el texto Fundamentos de Mantenimiento Industrial, en el cual se plantearon las bases conceptuales del quehacer de un ingeniero o tecnólogo recién egresado. En el presente libro se hace énfasis en la administración del mantenimiento industrial, pensando en noveles ingenieros o tecnólogos. En la forma que fue concebido y redactado el libro es susceptible de ser leído y comprendido no solo por estudiantes universitarios, sino también por otros profesionales y personas ajenas al ámbito académico directo, pero con interés en el amplio mundo del Mantenimiento.
ROLE OF HIGH- SENSITIVITY C REACTIVE PROTEIN (hs-CRP) IN ASSESSMENT OF ASTHMA CONTROL IN CHILDREN
Authors: KUMAR ARVIND , Jat Kana , Sankar Jhuma , Lakshmy Ram , LODHA RAKESH , Kabra Sushil
Published: March 2021

Introduction: Data are scarce on hs-CRP as a biomarker for airway
inflammation in pediatric asthma. We aimed to examine correlation
between hs-CRP and asthma control levels. Methods: Children with
physician-diagnosed asthma, ages 6 to 15 years, were enrolled. Asthma
control criteria of GINA-2016 were used to assess the level of asthma
control. The relationships between serum hs-CRP and each of asthma
control measures (Asthma control criteria, spirometry, impulse
oscillometry, eosinophil counts and Fractional exhaled nitric oxide
(FeNO) were assessed. Results: Out of total 150 asthmatic children; 52
(35%) had well controlled asthma, 76 (51%), and 22 (14%) children had
partly controlled and uncontrolled asthma, respectively. Median (IQR)
values of hs-CRP were 0.47 (0.1, 1.67) mg/L in well controlled, 0.30
(0.1, 1.83) mg/L in partly controlled, and 2.74 (0.55, 3.74) mg/L in
uncontrolled asthma (p=0.029). Correlation between hs-CRP and FEV1% was
significant (p=0.019). Using Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC)
analysis, area under curve for hs-CRP mg/L to discriminate between
uncontrolled and (controlled + partly controlled) asthma was 0.67 (95%
CI 0.55, 0.80) and a cutoff 1.1 mg/L of serum hs-CRP level had a
sensitivity of 68.1% with specificity of 67.97%. In two groups of
hs-CRP (< 3 mg/L) and hs-CRP (≥ 3 mg/L), high hs-CRP group had
higher proportion of uncontrolled asthmatic children (p=0.03).
Conclusion: Our study demonstrated higher serum hs-CRP values in
uncontrolled asthma that supports the use of hs-CRP as surrogate marker
of small airway inflammation. hs-CRP may be considered as a tool to
predict asthma status.
MULTIPLICATIVE DERIVATIVE AND ITS BASIC PROPERTIES ON TIME SCALES
Authors: Goktas Sertac , Yilmaz Emrah , YAR Ayşe
Published: March 2021

We define multiplicative derivative and its properties on time scales.
Then, we restate many concepts for multiplicative analysis such as
derivative, Rolle’s theorem, mean value theorem and increasing
decreasing property on time scales. We aim to create important fields of
study by carrying this most important issue of multiplicative analysis,
which has applications in economics, finance and many other fields, to
time scale calculus