bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Simple, Lightweight, and Low-Cost Customizable Multielectrode Array for Local Field Potential Recordings
Authors: Quansah Amissah Richard , Albeely Abdalla M. , Bragg Elise M. , Perreault Melissa L. , Doucette Wilder T. , Khokhar Jibran Y.
Published: August 2023

Local field potential (LFP) recording is a valuable method for assessing brain systems communication. Multiple methods have been developed to collect LFP data to study the rhythmic activity of the brain. These methods range from the use of single or bundled metal electrodes to electrode arrays that can target multiple brain regions. Although these electrodes are efficient in collecting LFP activity, they can be expensive, difficult to build, and less adaptable to different applications, which may include targeting multiple brain regions simultaneously. Here, the building process for a 16-channel customizable multielectrode array (CMEA) that can be used to collect LFP data from different brain regions simultaneously in rats is described. These CMEA electrode arrays are lightweight (<1 g), take little time to build (<1 h), and are affordable ($15 Canadian). The CMEA can also be modified to record single-unit and multiunit activity in addition to LFP activity using both wired and wireless neural data acquisition systems. Moreover, these CMEAs can be used to explore neural activity (LFP and single-unit/multiunit activity) in preliminary studies, before purchasing more expensive electrodes for targeted studies. Together, these characteristics make the described CMEA a competitive alternative to the commercially available multielectrode arrays for its simplicity, low cost, and efficiency in collecting LFP data in freely behaving animals.
Comprehensive quantitative modeling of translation efficiency in a genome‐reduced bacterium
Authors: Weber Marc , Sogues Adrià , Yus Eva , Burgos Raul , Gallo Carolina , Martínez Sira , Lluch‐Senar Maria , Serrano Luis
Published: August 2023

Translation efficiency has been mainly studied by ribosome profiling, which only provides an incomplete picture of translation kinetics. Here, we integrated the absolute quantifications of tRNAs, mRNAs, RNA half‐lives, proteins, and protein half‐lives with ribosome densities and derived the initiation and elongation rates for 475 genes (67% of all genes), 73 with high precision, in the bacterium Mycoplasma pneumoniae (Mpn). We found that, although the initiation rate varied over 160‐fold among genes, most of the known factors had little impact on translation efficiency. Local codon elongation rates could not be fully explained by the adaptation to tRNA abundances, which varied over 100‐fold among tRNA isoacceptors. We provide a comprehensive quantitative view of translation efficiency, which suggests the existence of unidentified mechanisms of translational regulation in Mpn.
The influence of crisis phenomena in the country on the international competitiveness of the enterprise
Authors:   Vinnytsia Institute of Trade and Economics of KNUTE, Khachatryan Valentyna
Published: August 2023

The article describes the relationship between the crisis in the economy and the international competitiveness of the enterprise. Indicators of the economic crisis in the country identified, including increasing inflation, rising unemployment, deteriorating balance of payments, declining incomes and more. It is determined that the international competitiveness of the enterprise as an economic category depends on a number of factors, which are proposed to be divided into external and internal. The SWOTanalysis of an estimation of positive and negative factors of influence of economic crisis on maintenance of the international competitiveness of the domestic enterprises is constructed. The negative factors influencing the provision of international competitiveness are singled out: the difficulty of ensuring the positive reputation of the enterprise in the international market, which is associated with the negative political and economic characteristics of the country; high level of tax burden on the domestic market, which reduces the company's income; the inability to improve the quality properties of goods that would meet international standards, due to the large amount of investment that can not be obtained in the process of functioning in a crisis in the country; the negative impact of the macroeconomic situation in the country on the process of entering the international market, etc. The main measures that need to be included in the strategy of ensuring international competitiveness at the enterprise level in order to level the negative effects of the crisis identified
Application of international outsourcing as an innovative tool in enterprise management
Authors:   Odessa National Polytechnic University, Hutareva Yuliia , Havrylova Kateryna ,   Odessa National Polytechnic University
Published: August 2023

In the modern world, the problems of the competitive ability and the effectiveness of businesses are extremely important. Because of the dynamic development in the external and internal market, only the enterprises that opt for the innovative approach in their business, implement new technologies and analyze the modern demands and market trends can reach success. For the Ukrainian market, the most successful and promising business-model is outsourcing
United territorial community as a subject of strategic planning of territorial development
Authors:   Odessa National Polytechnic University, Dobrіanska Natalia , Vechtomova Hanna ,   Odessa National Polytechnic University, Dobrіanskyi Rostyslav ,   Odessa National Academy of Food Technologies, Slusarciuc Marcela ,   Stefan cel Mare University of Suceava
Published: August 2023

The essence of the united territorial community as a subject of management of socio-economic development is generalized. Strategic planning as a component of a holistic system of local development planning is considered. The content and essence of the concept of "territorial community" with Western scientists and Ukrainian scientists are covered. Various approaches to the definition of the notion of "territorial community" are indicated, among which: qualitative, natural – geographical, ethnographic, sociological, ecological approaches, their principles and methods of implementation are also revealed. Characterized signs of the territorial community as a subject of management of socio-economic development. The Local Development Strategy is analyzed as a multifaceted concept. An analytical characteristic of the results of analysis of strengths and weaknesses of local development was carried out. The long-time plan for the development of the territory, which covers all the main aspects of local development, is proposed. We are offered ways to solve key problems of local development. Proposals for the formation of a strategic plan for the development of the territories of the united territorial communities and ensuring their economic development have been developed.
Production Stocks Audit of an Industrial Enterprise
Authors:   Odessa National Polytechnic University, Kiminchydzhy Hanna , Balan Alla ,   Odessa National Polytechnic University, Kirsanova Victoria ,   Odessa National Polytechnic University
Published: August 2023

The article is devoted to the study of the organization and methods of production stocks audit at the enterprise "Metalozakhyst" LP. International and national standards and regulations, as well as the current regulatory framework for inventory audit are considered. The proposed working papers will help an auditor to achieve this goal when checking production stocks at the enterprise. In the course of the research, a general plan and a detailed audit programme of the selected organization were developed, which will help to identify violations in the financial statements in a timely manner. The audit examination was conducted in accordance with international auditing standards (ISA) at the enterprise "Metalozakhyst" LP and an audit report was provided to help the manager improve the organization financial security.
How vlogging can build seafarer candidate self-confidence in speaking English
Authors: Sari Dhesi Wulan
Published: August 2023

In 1973 the IMO Sea Security Committee concurred at its twenty-seventh session that English has been used as a common language for navigational purposes. Mix nation languages and lack of proper English communication skill onboard become barriers which had contributed to marine safety and even loss of property onboard. In consequence, seafarer candidates must be able to speak English well so they can avoid misunderstanding on shore-to-ship (and vice versa), ship-to-ship and on-board communications. Nevertheless, this skill becomes a crucial problem for some seafarer candidates who have lack confidence in speaking English. This study was conducted to investigate how vlogging could build the seafarer candidates’ English speaking skills whilst they had a lack of confidence. This research used descriptive qualitative research. It was conducted at Politeknik Maritim Negeri Indonesia. The samples of this study were 28 Marine Engineering students in the third semester. They were from A and B classes. This research used three techniques in collecting data namely questionnaire, observation, and interview. The questionnaire was given in an online form which contained 10 questions. To analyze the data, the writer used Likert scale. The writer also managed observation and an interview by giving them 10 open-ended questions. To support the data, the writer also analyzed the video result. The result of the study showed that Vlogs can be used to improve the seafarer candidate's confidence in speaking English.
Artificial intelligence (AI) technology in OpenAI ChatGPT application: A review of ChatGPT in writing English essay
Authors: Fitria Tira Nur
Published: August 2023

ChatGPT is a product of AI that is currently being widely discussed on Twitter. This research reviews how ChatGPT writes English essays. This research is descriptive qualitative. The analysis shows that we can access ChatGPT on openai.com or chat.openai.com on the browser. If we do not have an account, we register via email, Google, or Microsoft account. After login, enter a question or statement in the conversation column provided. Send it and ChatGPT will respond and the answer appear quickly. The researcher tries ChatGPT “Can you help me in doing my English assignment?", and the ChatBot replies "Of course! I'd be happy to help you with your English assignment. What do you need help with? Do you have a specific question or task that you're working on, or is there a broader topic that you'd like help with? It would be helpful to have some more information so that I can better understand how I can assist you". Based on several tries, ChatGPT can answer all questions on various topics such as English essays including a descriptive text about Solo and My Family, recount text about personal experience and unforgettable moments, resolution in 2023, and future career. ChatGPT considers the event orders and writing order, including using main, explanatory sentences, and a conclusion. It uses two voices both active and passive voice. Besides, it considers tenses use related to the given topic essay. However, from examples of English essays produced by ChatGPT, it certainly requires further research to find out that the essay results are grammatically accurate.
EFL female students’ perceptions in doing collaborative writing in an online writing class
Authors: Kumalasari Desma
Published: August 2023

Collaborative writing is an approach teachers can apply to support their students’ writing development. However, despite the benefits from collaborative writing, some English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students might not enjoy writing in groups. This qualitative study aims to explore the perceptions of EFL female students in doing collaborative writing in a Writing for the Media class, such as how they think about finishing their writing tasks collaboratively, the benefits and challenges of doing collaborative writing in order to know whether collaborative writing can actually improve students’ writing skills or the opposite. The female students were chosen because studies prove that they contribute more for the group’s success. Data were gathered through a semi-structured interview with five EFL female students from a private university in Central Java, Indonesia. My analysis results indicated that EFL female students had positive perceptions towards collaborative writing, i.e., helping other students complete their writing tasks, providing opportunities to share ideas, and improving writing skills. Meanwhile, challenges that most of the research participants faced were dealing with differences in opinion, and lacking equal contribution from group members. Practical suggestions for improving online collaborative writing activities in online EFL writing classrooms and recommendations for future research are presented, i.e., assist and monitor the progress, giving a specific topic to write about to minimize conflict and differences of opinion, and providing rubrics for peer assessment.
Post-Editing Machine Translation (PEMT) as the preference method for university students in Indonesia
Authors: Haiyudi Haiyudi , Pratama Yudistira Bagus , Art-in Sitthipon
Published: August 2023

Language translating process by Indonesian students is particularly suffered from many errors. Its defined strategy should be carefully watched due to completing its translating perfection. Thus, this study identifies the problematic translation ways commonly referred and used by university students in Indonesia. The mixed method using embedded design between qualitative and quantitative data with a case study approach was carried out to find the preferences of the translation method used by the students. The respondents are 50 English Department students from different levels of studying years. The result shows that Post-Editing Machine Translation (PEMT) was preferred among other translating methods. The reasons are related to the ease and quality of the translation work. 76.90% of the students responded and chose to have PEMT as the preference. However, there were only 53.8% of them implementing PEMT as the translating process, and 38.5% were familiar with Machine Translation (MT) without post-editing instead. It indicates an inconsistency in the use of the translation methods as each of them experienced and chose different type of methods. However, PEMT was placed as the most referred translating method used by the students. This suggests that the presence of technology is well utilized while still paying attention to the quality of the translation through the post-editing process.
Determination of the lifting height of dust particles after a mass explosion in an iron ore open pit
Authors:   M.S. Poliakov Institute of Geotechnical Mechanics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Novikov Leonid , Ishchenko Kostiantyn ,   M.S. Poliakov Institute of Geotechnical Mechanics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Lohvyna Liudmyla ,   M.S. Poliakov Institute of Geotechnical Mechanics of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Published: August 2023

Open pit mining is accompanied by emissions of fine dust and hazardous gases into the atmosphere. This is related to the operation of open pit transport, drilling and blasting operations. The release of harmful components into the quarry space and the increase in their concentrations has a negative impact on the health of working personnel and leads to pollution of the environment. In doing so, the nature of fine dust and gases pollution depends on the mining technology and meteorological factors. The problem of reduced effectiveness of dust suppression methods after mass explosions in open pits is relate to insufficient research into the formation of dust and gas cloud. Additional theoretical and experimental research into the dust dynamics of blasting operations is therefore need. The article discusses the stages of formation of the dust and gas cloud after a mass explosion in an iron ore open pit. The results of experimental studies of the evolution of the dust and gas cloud at different points in time after the detonation of borehole charges are presented. Relations for determination of density and dynamic viscosity of gases, gas mixture and gas-dust aerosol are given. A formula for determining the time and height of ascent of spherical dust particles at the dynamic stage of dust and gas cloud formation is obtain. In this case, the assumption is madid that there is no mutual influence of the dynamic and thermal factors after detonation of the charges. The elevation of dust particles due to temperature differences during the heat stage of dust and gas cloud formation is determined. Based on the analysis of the calculation results, the duration of the dynamic stage of cloud formation is determined. It is established that, following the release of solid and gaseous detonation products into the atmosphere, a height distribution of dust particles is observed as a function of their diameter. That said during, the dynamic stage of dust and gas cloud formation, the height of dust particle lift is directly proportional to their diameter, while during the heat stage the inverse relationship is observe. That at the beginning of the thermal stage the deposition of coarse dust particles takes place are established. In this process, fine dust particles rise to a maximum height and are then carried outside the open pit by the airflow.
Hong-Ou-Mandel quantum effect on “expanded graphite - cnts” composites
Authors:   V.Е. Lashkaryov Institute of Semiconductor Physics of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Karachevtseva L. A. , Kartel M. T. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Sementsov Yu. I. ,   Chuiko Institute of Surface Chemistry of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Lytvynenko O. O. ,   V.Е. Lashkaryov Institute of Semiconductor Physics of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Sapelnikova O. Yu. ,   V.Е. Lashkaryov Institute of Semiconductor Physics of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine
Published: August 2023

We investigated influence of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on spectral characteristics of composites “thermo-expanded graphite – carbon nanotubes (TEG–CNTs)”. The introduction of CNTs in an amount of 0-3% by weight of TEG composites results in a significant increase in the strength characteristics and thermal stability of the composites. This result indicates that CNTs is ideal filler for composites based on TEG compositions and structures. Measurements the giant two-polar oscillations with very small half-width 0.5 cm–1 testify the strong interaction of surface polaritons with photons. When frequencies of local oscillations of surface bonds of carbon nanotubes and modes along “nanotube-TEG” boundaries matches, then the light absorption increases 102–105 times. Thus, IR absorption with two-polar oscillations was measured at 0% of nanotubes in TEG at frequency of 2750 cm–1. It is own optical mode in the thermally expanded graphite. 5 peaks with two-polar oscillations were measured in the IR absorption spectra at 1% of carbon nanotubes. And 8 peaks with two-polar oscillations were measured at 3 % of carbon nanotubes at optical mode frequencies along the boundaries of thermally expanded graphite - carbon nanotubes. When frequencies of local oscillations of carbon nanotubes and composite’s modes matches, then the light absorption extremely increases (in 102–105 times), and two-polar IR absorption oscillations with negative components are formed. In general, two-photon interference is a result of quantum entanglement of dipole-active oscillations and splitting of photons according to the Hong-Ou-Mendel (HOM) quantum effect. Two-photon entanglement is built on the basis of the most entanglement states, also known as Bell's states. The HOM–quantum effect on composites “expanded graphite-carbon nanotubes” is promising for the development of highly coherent optical quantum computers.
Influence of transglutaminase treatment on the physicochemical, rheological, and melting properties of ice cream prepared from goat milk
Authors:   Kirklareli University, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Food Engineering, Kirklareli, Turkey, Şanlidere Aloğlu Hatice
Published: August 2023

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of the transglutaminase enzyme on the physicochemical characteristics, overrun, melting resistance, rheological and sensorial properties of ice cream made from goat’s milk. Different enzyme units (0.5, 1, 2, and 4 U/g milk protein) and treatment times (20 min and 60 min) were applied to determine the optimum process conditions. Treatment of the transglutaminase in the ice cream mix significantly affected the rheological and melting properties of the ice cream samples. The samples prepared with higher enzyme units and enzyme-treatment times showed higher melting resistance, consistency index, and viscoelastic modulus (G’) than the ice cream mix. The correlation coefficient between melting resistance and viscoelastic modulus was found to be high (0.76). The apparent viscosity of all samples decreased with increasing the shear rate, indicating that all samples exhibited non-Newtonian shear thinning flow behavior. The sensory, overrun, and physicochemical properties of samples were not affected by the enzyme treatment. This study showed that treatment times and enzyme units are essential factors in the processing of the transglutaminase enzyme for improving the rheological and melting properties of ice cream mixes. Another significant result was that desired melting resistance could be achieved for ice cream with lower stabilizer and fat content.
A review of materials used in tomographic volumetric additive manufacturing
Authors: Madrid-Wolff Jorge , Toombs Joseph , Rizzo Riccardo , Bernal Paulina Nuñez , Porcincula Dominique , Walton Rebecca , Wang Bin , Kotz-Helmer Frederik , Yang Yi , Kaplan David , Zhang Yu Shrike , Zenobi-Wong Marcy , McLeod Robert R. , Rapp Bastian , Schwartz Johanna , Shusteff Maxim , Talyor Hayden , Levato Riccardo , Moser Christophe
Published: August 2023

Volumetric additive manufacturing is a novel fabrication method allowing rapid, freeform, layer-less 3D printing. Analogous to computer tomography (CT), the method projects dynamic light patterns into a rotating vat of photosensitive resin. These light patterns build up a three-dimensional energy dose within the photosensitive resin, solidifying the volume of the desired object within seconds. Departing from established sequential fabrication methods like stereolithography or digital light printing, volumetric additive manufacturing offers new opportunities for the materials that can be used for printing. These include viscous acrylates and elastomers, epoxies (and orthogonal epoxy-acrylate formulations with spatially controlled stiffness) formulations, tunable stiffness thiol-enes and shape memory foams, polymer derived ceramics, silica-nanocomposite based glass, and gelatin-based hydrogels for cell-laden biofabrication. Here we review these materials, highlight the challenges to adapt them to volumetric additive manufacturing, and discuss the perspectives they present.

Graphical abstract
Research Note: The (Re)-Education of Colin Kaepernick, the Social Protest he led, and his Quest to work in the National Football League
Authors: Foltz Katelyn
Published: August 2023

In 2016, Colin Kaepernick spearheaded an activist movement by National Football League (NFL) players by “taking a knee” during the National Anthem before the start of NFL games. His goal was to raise awareness about police brutality and other oppression experienced by the Black community. These protests quickly became controversial and created a media firestorm. This research aims to understand his foundational education – graduating from both high school and the University of Nevada Reno with a nearly perfect 4.0 grade-point average – that laid the groundwork for his (re) education that spurred both his social activism and left him poised to enter a “free-world” economy equipped to make a life after football. Kaepernick’s experience contrasts with so many other Black men who exit the NFL without a strategy or tools for pursuing success beyond the NFL.
Hydrophilic molecularly imprinted phenol-amine-formaldehyde resins
Authors: Petrova Yuliya Yu. , Bulatova Elena V. , Zelentsov Dmitry O. , Mateyshina Yuliya G.
Published: August 2023

Hydrophilic molecularly imprinted resins (MIR), which are produced using hydrophilic monomers such as phenols, aldehydes, melamine or urea, have recently attracted increasing attention for use in separation and preconcentration. Among their obvious advantages are good sorption capacity, high recovery and selectivity, as well as their reusability in aqueous solutions. In this work we applied the bulk molecular imprinting method to produce quercetin-imprinted phenol-amino-formaldehyde resin. For this purpose, phloroglucinol and melamine solutions were mixed with formaldehyde and then polyethylene glycol and quercetin (Qu) were added to the obtained solution as a porogen and a template, respectively. The mixture was stirred under heating, then left in the thermostat for a continuous time. The optimum ratio of phloroglucinol to melamine was 3:1. The average molecular mass of porogen (Mw) varied between 4000–10000 Da. The obtained MIR were eluted with ethanol-water mixture (4:1, v/v) in the Soxhlet extractor for 36 h to remove the template. The MIR were characterized by FTIR-spectroscopy, laser diffraction spectroscopy and differential thermal analysis. The maximum recovery and sorption capacity of MIR synthesized in the presence of a porogen with Mw 10000 were 47% and 4.7 μmol Qu/g, respectively. The maximum imprinting factor was 1.41. The sorption kinetics of quercetin by a non-imprinted resin (NIR) is best described by a pseudo-second-order model, while MIR has a mixed pseudo-first-second-order mechanism.
Left heart remodeling as a risk factor for atrial fibrillation in patients after surgery of acquired heart defects
Authors: Averina I. I. , Mironenko M. Yu. , Glushko L. A. , Donakanyan S. A. , Bokeria L. A.
Published: August 2023

Aim. To identify risk factors for atrial fibrillation (AF) in patients with aortic and mitral defects after surgical treatment.

Material and methods. A total of 112 patients with aortic and mitral defects (excluding patients with mitral stenosis) were examined: 90 men and 22 women aged 18 to 72 years (median age, 51(35;57) years). Patients were examined initially before and after surgery (in terms of 8-14 days and after 12-36 months). The peak left atrial (LA) longitudinal strain (PALS) was determined at LA reservoir phase. The following endpoints were chosen: the presence of AF and atrial flutter (AFL) in the shortand long-term period after surgery, repeated hospitalization for arrhythmias. Patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 — patients with a favorable prognosis, group 2 — patients with AF and AFL after surgery. The mean values were compared by the independent Student’s t test, while the rank sum — by the Mann-Whitney test. ROC analysis was used.

Results. Baseline LA volume index (LAVI) >44,4 ml/m2 increased the risk of AF after surgery (AUC=0,6±0,07, p<0,05, relative risk (RR) — 2,34 (confidence interval (CI), 0,8-6,88). LA volumes were within the normal range in the group without arrhythmias. A decrease in the initial threshold level of LA PALS <27,5% increased the risk of AF as in the shortand long-term postoperative period (AUC=0,659±0,08, p<0,01, RR — 1,19 (CI, 3,38-31,4). In the AF group, PALS decreased after surgery and did not increase in the long-term period (28±7,5% at baseline, 19±6,2% after surgery, 21±8,3% in the long-term period, (p=0,04 and p=0, 23, respectively). Left ventricular ejection fraction affected the AF development only in the early period after surgery (AUC=0,71±0,049, p<0,008, RR — 2,21 (CI, 1,27-3,87).

Conclusion. The development of AF was influenced by LAVI, LA PALS, while in the early postoperative surgery period — ejection fraction.
Ischemic stroke in a patient with floating thrombosis of the left ventricular aneurysm and complete atrioventricular block infected with a COVID-19: a case report
Authors: Pavlenko T. A. , Pavlov A. V. , Lebedeva A. Yu.
Published: August 2023

Left ventricular (LV) thrombosis is a common complication of heart failure with reduced LV ejection fraction and can be a source of systemic embolism. The material presents the case of a 76-year-old woman with a history of myocardial infarction, LV aneurysm, coronary bypass surgery, who was admitted to the hospital with ischemic vertebrobasilar stroke. One month prior to present hospitalization, the patient was admitted to the hospital with transient complete atrioventricular block, underwent coronary artery stenting for stable angina pectoris with a drug-eluting stent, and was subsequently diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which required further inpatient treatment. Despite dual antithrombotic therapy (antiplatelet+anticoagulant) taken after discharge from the hospital, the patient was diagnosed with a floating thrombus in the apical LV aneurysm. Recurrent conduction disorders (transient atrioventricular block) required temporary pacing until the thrombus elements floated, after which a dual-chamber pacemaker was implanted. The main feature of this case is the formation of a floating thrombus in the LV aneurysm  11 years after myocardial infarction against the background of COVID-19 and anticoagulant therapy with direct oral anticoagulants. At the moment, there is still no unique opinion on the choice of anticoagulant therapy in patients with COVID-19 and a complicated cardiovascular history. In such cases, the anticoagulant regimen should be determined by a multidisciplinary team, taking into account the risks of thrombosis and bleeding.
Evaluation of left atrial strain using speckle-tracking echocardiography to predict postoperative atrial fibrillation after coronary artery bypass grafting: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Golukhova E. Z. , Bulaeva N. I. , Mrikaev D. V. , Aleksandrova S. A. , Kudryashova E. N. , Dzhidzalova D. Kh. , Mollaeva D. D. , Berdibekov B. Sh.
Published: August 2023

Aim.To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the prognostic role of left atrial (LA) strain assessment using speckle-tracking echocardiography to predict postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) in patients undergoing coronary bypass grafting (CABG).

Material and methods.We searched the PubMed (Medline) and Google Scholar databases for studies investigating LA strain measures obtained by speckle tracking echocardiography as predictors of POAF in patients after CABG. To determine the difference in the weighted average LA strain parameters, an analysis was made of the global LA strain, peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS), left atrial conduit strain (LACS) and left atrial contractile strain (LACtS). Odds ratio (OR) values were received from multivariate models reporting association between PALS and POAF and described as pooled estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results.Twelve studies from 404 publications were selected for this systematic review and meta-analysis. A total of 1093 patients were included in the analysis, with a mean age of 60,5 years. A meta-analysis showed that patients with POAF had lower global LA strain than patients without POAF (difference in weighted values, 5,03%; 95% CI: -6,89 to -3,16; p<0,001). In addition, patients with POAF had lower PALS, LACS and LACtS; the difference in weighted values was 9,90% (95% CI: -12,95 to -6,85; p<0,001), 4,17% (95% CI: -6,05 to -2,29; p<0,001) and 6,1 7% (95% CI: -12,01 to -0,33; p=0,04), respectively. Moreover, in a pooled odds ratio (OR) analysis, PALS was found to be an independent predictor of POAF (OR: 0,88 for every 1% increase in PALS; 95% CI: 0,82–0,94; p<0,0001).

Conclusion.Assessment of LA strain using speckle-tracking echocardiography provides important additional information for predicting POAF in patients undergoing isolated CABG.
Pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular dysfunction as predictors of severe coronavirus infection
Authors: Podzolkov V. I. , Ishina T. I. , Medvedev I. D. , Vetluzhskaya M. V. , Dragomiretskaya N. A. , Yasneva A. S.
Published: August 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a disease characterized by diverse clinical manifestations, the severity of which can vary from asymptomatic to extremely severe. At this stage, the urgent task is the early detection of reliable markers of its severity in the acute period of infection and possible changes that cause symptoms in the post-COVID period. The severe COVID-19 is associated with extensive damage to the lungs, pulmonary vessels, and cardiovascular system. In this regard, it seems natural to study the problem of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and right ventricular dysfunction (RVD) in patients with COVID-19, and their significance for assessing the severity of the condition and prognosis. Also important is the availability of reliable non-invasive diagnostics. This review presents data on the incidence of PH and RVD and their potential significance in patients with COVID-19. We have analyzed literature sources in the eLIBRARY, PubMed/MEDLINE, ScienceDirect and ProQuest databases.
Personalized choice of vascular access for isolated hepatic perfusion: analysis of complication risk stratification programs
Authors: Unguryan V. M. , Kazantsev A. N. , Korotkikh A. V. , Ivanov S. A. , Belov Yu. V. , Kaprin A. D.
Published: August 2023

The article presents three clinical reviews of isolated hepatic perfusion using a heart-lung machine. The probability of postoperative complications was retrospectively assessed using risk stratification programs for adverse outcomes. The conclusion is made about the effectiveness of the presented software.
ELASTIC ANALYSIS OF FUNCTIONALLY GRADED ROTATING PRESSURIZED CYLINDERS
Authors: Yarımpabuç Durmus , Çalıskan Aybegüm
Published: August 2023

Elastic analysis of functionally graded rotating hollow cylindrical pressure vessels is investigated. The
material properties of these structures, thought to be formed gradually from a mixture of metal and
aluminum, were graded using the Halpin-Tsai scheme. These conditions result in a variable coefficient boundary value problem that may not be solved by conventional analytical methods. The solution to this problem is handled by the pseudospectral Chebyshev method (PCM). Based on the differential matrix approach, this method transforms the differential equation into a linear equation system, making it easily solvable by any decomposition method. The effects of rotation with a mixture of randomly selected
metal and aluminum on the stress and displacement distributions are discussed.
Centrifuge modelling of the progressive failure of geosynthetic-reinforced embankments
Authors: Zheng G. , Xia B. , Zhou H. , Yu X. , Diao Y. , Du Y.
Published: August 2023

Understanding the failure mechanism of geosynthetic-reinforced embankments on soft foundations is crucial for ensuring safety in design. This study aimed to investigate the failure mechanism and stability of embankments reinforced with varying layers and lengths of geosynthetic reinforcements utilising centrifuge testing and numerical modelling. The results show that a foundation under construction exhibits a progressive shear failure coupled with a tensile failure of the geosynthetic reinforcement. The plastic shear strain in the soft clay layer initiates at the centreline, shoulder and embankment toe and propagates both forward and backward until a critical slip surface develops. The tensile failure of the geosynthetic was observed at the embankment centre. Comparatively, implementing two shorter layers of geosynthetics proved more advantageous for overall stability than using a single layer with the entire length. By analysing the strain distribution in the foundation, the deformation modes of the embankment reinforced by different numbers of geosynthetic layers were clarified. It was found that increasing the number of geosynthetic layers extended the active shear zone in soft clay.
Bioquanti, um website interativo para ensino-aprendizagem em Bioquímica
Authors: Schneedorf José Maurício
Published: August 2023

A abstração de conceitos, relações e dinâmica presentes em Bioquímica e áreas correlatas é um constante desafio ao ensino-aprendizagem de seus atores face à alfabetização visual de símbolos, esquemas, gráficos, desenhos, e de resultados experimentais. Nesse sentido reside esta proposta para um website elaborado junto à aplicação de três softwares de livre distribuição a diversos conteúdos em Bioquímica (Jmol, R, e Sisma). O material almeja contribuir para um aprendizado ativo, autoexplicativo e progressivo, tanto dos conteúdos como do uso dos programas. O acesso por navegadores web em plataformas tecnológicas diversas para os programas, bem o uso de scripts comentados de seus comandos, possibilitam a reprodução, modificação e criação de trechos de código, simulações, animações e projetos na área, permitindo contribuir a um panorama ativo de educação reproduzível para o ensino presencial, híbrido, e ao EaD.
Corticosteroids in Generalized Autoimmune Myasthenia Gravis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Sharshar Tarek , Mazeraud Aurélien , Birnbaum Simone
Published: August 2023

No abstract is required for a review article as per instructions
Congenital Myasthenic Syndromes
Authors: Maselli Ricardo
Published: August 2023

Very few areas of medical genetics have been so profoundly impacted by the advent of next- generation sequencing (NGS) as the field of congenital myasthenic syndromes (CMS). This is due to the formidable genetic heterogeneity of CMS, a dearth of diagnostic clinical clues of CMS types, and the imperative need to establish an accurate molecular diagnosis of CMS type before any medication is started. A molecular diagnosis of CMS is fundamental not only to provide an appropriate therapy, but more importantly, to avoid potential deleterious treatments. Thus, NGS has transformed the tedious and expensive task of searching for causative mutations in an ever-expanding list of genes linked to CMS into an effective, and relatively inexpensive process that can rapidly identify the variant of CMS in question. One of the consequences of this transformation is a paradigm shift in the clinical practice of CMS that no longer requires, with rare exceptions, the use of special muscle biopsies that enable the analysis of the function and ultrastructure of the neuromuscular junction to determine the type of CMS. Another technological advance of recent years is CRISPR/Cas9, which allows genome editing at the zygotic stage, thus greatly simplifying the generation of mouse models carrying the same human CMS mutations in orthologous mouse genes. This permits an in-depth analysis of the pathogenesis and treatments of CMS caused by specific gene mutations. In terms of therapy, in addition to the classical pharmacologic treatments of CMS, including pyridostigmine sulfate, albuterol and 3,4 diaminopyridine, AAV-based gene therapies are now at the preclinical stage for several types of CMS. In this brief review, CMS are classified in six major groups: (1). presynaptic CMS, (2) synaptic CMS, (3) postsynaptic CMS; 4. CMS affecting the agrin-signal transduction pathway, (5) CMS linked to disorders of glycosylation, and (6) CMS associated with abnormalities of the cytoskeleton.
IoT-based winter season crop prediction using machine learning on Vyas municipality ward No-13, Nepal
Authors: Deepak Pantha
Published: August 2023

The agricultural system in Nepal is facing a decline primarily due to its traditional practices. Farmers’ morale is low as they invest significant effort but yield low production, leading to an exodus of young people seeking opportunities abroad. While Nepal is often depicted as an agricultural country in literature, the reality falls short. Improving productivity is crucial, and this can be achieved by enhancing labor efficiency and increasing arable land fertility. To address these challenges, the concept of smart agriculture has emerged, and implementing an IoT-based agricultural system could help manage the workforce and retain skilled youth in their homeland. The main objectives of the study were to develop a monitoring system for arable land using IoT and to predict and recommend suitable crops using machine learning. Due to constraints in time and resources, the study focused on Vyas Municipality Ward no-13 in the Tanahun district. Sensor devices were deployed in the selected ward, and data was collected four times a day at half-hour intervals, monitoring key parameters like Humidity, Temperature, Rainfall, and Soil moisture. In this research, Orange, Ginger, Onion, and Spinach are the main crops predicted and recommended suitable times. In conclusion, the implementation of IoT-based agricultural systems and Machine Learning algorithms can offer valuable insights to farmers, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding crop selection and cultivation timing. This could potentially revitalize Nepal’s agricultural sector and reduce the trend of young people leaving the country in search of better opportunities.
Qaigen RNEasy RNA extration protocol v1
Authors: Pardy Jessica
Published: August 2023

This protocol was employed by Western University for RNA extraction of wastewater samples for wastewater-based epimelogy in London, Ontario, Canada and surrounding area. The protocol was adapted from QIAamp® Viral RNAMini Handbook for use with the Qiagen RNeasy extraction kit.
Post-diagnosis dietary patterns among cancer survivors in relation to all-cause mortality and cancer-specific mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies v1
Authors: Spei Maria-Eleni
Published: August 2023

This study aims to synthesize the latest evidence regarding the association of a priori and a posteriori dietary patterns with robust outcome measures, such as total mortality and cancer-specific mortality, expanding our search chronologically, including more databases, implementing robust risk of bias tools and focusing exclusively on the post-diagnosis period. A systematic literature review will be conducted and all cohort studies will be evaluated. The methodological rigour of the included studies was critically appraised using the ROBINS-I (Risk Of Bias In Non-randomized Studies of Interventions) tool, which is proposed for non-randomized studies of interventions/exposures.
Federal Servants of Inclusion? The Governance of Student Mobility in Canada and the EU
Authors: Felder Alina , Tamtik Merli
Published: August 2023

Student mobility constitutes a core pillar of higher education internationalisation. Reflecting wider global trends, Canada and the EU have increasingly prioritised equity and inclusion in their student mobility programmes. Canada’s Global Skills Opportunity programme, launched in 2021, provides federal funding specifically to low-income students, students with disabilities, and Indigenous students. The EU’s Erasmus Programme has a long-standing tradition of community-building through inclusive student mobility. This article traces the principle of inclusion as a mobility rationale and analyses the role of the federal government in Canada and the European Commission in the EU supporting it. Using a policy framing lens, this study compares problem definitions, policy rationales, and solutions for federal/supranational involvement in student mobility. Findings show that inclusiveness has been an underlying silent value, yet it has mostly supported larger political and economic goals in both contexts.
Makerspace Communities and Ecosystem Strategy
Authors:   , Kahle Mary , Koltick Nicole , Nicholas Diana S.
Published: August 2023

Makerspaces have emerged as institutions with the potential to foster optimal environments for accessible STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math) education, cross-/inter-disciplinary collaboration, economic growth, and entrepreneurial support. With access to resources, tools, and skill-based programming, these spaces could create more equitable futures of maker education and reintroduce systems of local manufacturing while encouraging more sustainable production practices. However, these places face many barriers to long-lasting success including universal standards of operating, mismatched resources to community needs, scalability, accessibility, and focused efforts to support diversity, equity, and inclusion. This research aims to capture a holistic view of the issues facing makerspaces at various scales. This study deploys multiple qualitative design research methods for more thorough data collection, contributing to the existing research pool, with the aim of guiding important future research areas. Through literature review, interviews, observational studies, collage analysis, and participatory/co-design workshops, the co-development of an ideation card deck emerges as a boundary object for all stakeholders within the makerspace ecosystem to use when addressing the systemic barriers preventing makerspaces from reaching their potential.
Correlation of glycated haemoglobin status with the foot ulcer
Authors: Sachar Rupali Kaur , Rao Hemashankar , Sharma P. P. , Aggarwal M. P. , Yadav Sunita
Published: August 2023

Background: Diabetic foot ulcer is a well-documented complication of uncontrolled diabetes and its association with the variables involved in Diabetes like FBS, RBS and HBA1C has been thoroughly researched. This research aims to identify the association of diabetic foot ulcer under Wagner classification with HBA1C classes. Objectives were to determine the severity of diabetic foot ulcer at various level of HBA1C and determine the association.
Methods: A observational cross-sectional study with 160 diabetic patients who after giving consent filled questionnaires. The information was analyzed using SPSS v26 (IBM) through Chi Square test. The results were tabulated and inferred from.
Results: The study included Sample size of 160 Patients. Here in the study mean age for group A was 41.2 years, for group B it was 29.6 years and for group C it was 25.8 years. Majority 40% patients in group A had T2DM. In group B we found that 51.7% patients had T2DM followed by 48.2% patients with T1DM. In group C we found that majority 67.01% patients had T2DM. We found that site of ulcer was improving with increasing duration of follow up. Initially we found 30% patients with infection at dorsum aspect of foot. After follow up day 9 we found improvement in ulcer infection
Conclusions: This research further supplemented an already strongly established association between uncontrolled diabetes and diabetic foot ulcer. We focused on specifically HBA1C and how increased lab values are linked with different grades of Diabetic Foot ulcer and found a strong association demanding a proactive approach towards patient care and education. HbA1c has a linear relationship with the grades of Wagner classification of diabetic foot.
Outcome of Chivates trans anal suture mucoanopexy procedure for haemorrhoids: primary findings in South Indian population
Authors: M. Scott Arokia Singh
Published: August 2023

Background: This procedure is used by surgeons all across India and we offer our preliminary findings from Southern India. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first publication from the rural part of Tamil Nadu to be disclosed.
Methods: One of the novel methods for treating grade III and IV haemorrhoids is the Chivate's procedure (CP). Restoring lowered anal cushions to their original positions and ligation of blood flow to the anal canal are the two main components of the Chivates surgery. Hemorrhoids' engorgement, prolapse, recurrence, and discomfort are the main factors influencing how haemorrhoids are treated.
Results: This procedure is the effective method with successful outcome in grade III and grade IV haemorrhoids. No complications like pain, soiling and leakage were noted.
Conclusions: CP of trans anal suture rectopexy for haemorrhoid is a very promising procedure with a short learning curve. In our experience with 58 patients, we conclude that the procedure successfully controlled mass, prolapse and recurrence of haemorrhoids.