bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A mixed-method survey to understand the role of dog welfare organisations in Ireland, including reported challenges and potential solutions
Authors: McKernan Claire , Lawler Catherine , Murphy Blain , Collins Daniel M. , More Simon J. , Murray Sean , Reilly Patricia , Doyle Rob , Meunier Natascha V. , Maguire Aiden , Messam Locksley L. McV.
Published: September 2023

Background

This novel study forms part of a larger research programme seeking an improved understanding of aspects of the owned dog population in Ireland. Dog welfare organisations (DWOs) in Ireland are recognised as an instrumental pillar of the animal welfare sector with some receiving substantial public funding. We conducted a survey of DWOs in Ireland (n = 39) to gain a better understanding of their role and function, including their policies and procedures and the rehoming of dogs to other regions. In addition, we wanted to get a better understanding of the challenges experienced by DWOs in fulfilling their role and their perspectives on potential solutions to these challenges. The survey questions consisted of closed and open-ended items. Closed items were analysed quantitively; open-ended items were analysed thematically.

Results

Most DWOs (> 80%) had written protocols for important welfare actions including rehoming procedures, assessment of owner suitability and euthanasia. DWOs sent dogs to Northern Ireland (13%), Great Britain (38.5%) and to other countries outside the United Kingdom (36%, including Germany, Sweden, Italy, the Netherlands and Czechia). Reported challenges included a general lack of funding, limited public awareness of the importance of dog welfare and insufficient capacity to handle dog numbers. To address these challenges, the DWOs highlighted the potential contribution of subsidised programmes and access to resources to educate potential owners. In a further qualitative evaluation to capture perceptions of appropriate solutions by DWOs, several themes emerged, relating to legislation, education, an overwhelmed workforce, and funding.

Conclusions

This study provides important insights into the roles and functions of DWOs and challenges they experience in Ireland. It is hoped that the findings from this research will inform future research investigating potential solutions to these challenges as well as the development of policy in Ireland.
A survey on cognitive radio network attack mitigation using machine learning and blockchain
Authors: Ezhilarasi I. Evelyn , Clement J. Christopher , Arul Joseph M.
Published: September 2023

Cognitive radio network is a promising technology to enhance the spectrum utilization and to resolve the spectrum scarcity issues. But the malicious users play havoc with the network during spectrum sensing and demean the network performance. It is mandatory to identify such malicious attacks and address it. There have been many traditional methods to mitigate the cognitive radio network attacks. In this paper, we have surveyed advanced attack mitigation techniques like machine learning, deep learning and blockchain. Thus, by detecting and addressing the malicious activities, the throughput and overall network performance can be improved.
Patient-reported outcome (PRO) instruments used in patients undergoing adoptive cell therapy (ACT) for the treatment of cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Taylor Sally , Law Kate , Coomber-Moore Jake , Davies Michelle , Thistlethwaite Fiona , Calvert Mel , Aiyegbusi Olalekan , Yorke Janelle
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) is a rapidly evolving field. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) allow patients to report the impact of treatment on their quality of life during and after treatment. The systematic review aims to characterise the breadth of PROs utilised in ACT cancer care and provide guidance for the use of PROs in this patient population in the future.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted (MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Embase and CINAHL) in August 2021 by two reviewers. Search terms covered the following: “adoptive cell therapy”, “patient-reported outcomes” and “cancer”. Studies were included if they used a PRO measure to report the impact of ACT. The methodological quality of PROs was assessed. Forward and backward reference searching was conducted of any relevant papers. A quality grading scale was applied based on Cochrane and Revenson criteria for classification of high-quality studies. Key data from the studies and the included PROs was extracted by two researchers and tabulated.

Results

One-hundred nine papers were identified; 11 papers were included. The majority of studies were single-arm trials or observational studies. Twenty-two different PROs were identified; none was ACT specific. The PROMIS-29 and EQ-5D were most commonly used. Few studies collected PRO data in the first 1–2 weeks. Four studies followed patients up for over a year, and a further four studies followed patients for approximately 3 months.

Discussion

None of the PROs identified have been designed specifically for ACT. Appropriateness of existing instruments should be considered. It should be considered whether it is appropriate to collect data more frequently in the acute stage and then less frequently during follow-up. It should be considered if one tool is suitable at all time points or if the tool should be adapted depending on time since treatment. More research is needed to identify the exact timings of PRO assessments, and qualitative work with patients is needed to determine the most important issues for them throughout the treatment and follow-up.
Development and testing of a random forest-based machine learning model for predicting events among breast cancer patients with a poor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Jin Yudi , Lan Ailin , Dai Yuran , Jiang Linshan , Liu Shengchun
Published: September 2023

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common malignant tumor around the world. Timely detection of the tumor progression after treatment could improve the survival outcome of patients. This study aimed to develop machine learning models to predict events (defined as either (1) the first tumor relapse locally, regionally, or distantly; (2) a diagnosis of secondary malignant tumor; or (3) death because of any reason.) in BC patients post-treatment.

Methods

The patients with the response of stable disease (SD) and progressive disease (PD) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) were selected. The clinicopathological features and the survival data were recorded in 1 year and 5 years, respectively. Patients were randomly divided into the training set and test set in the ratio of 8:2. A random forest (RF) and a logistic regression were established in both of 1-year cohort and the 5-year cohort. The performance was compared between the two models. The models were validated using data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.

Results

A total of 315 patients were included. In the 1-year cohort, 197 patients were divided into a training set while 87 were into a test set. The specificity, sensitivity, and AUC were 0.800, 0.833, and 0.810 in the RF model. And 0.520, 0.833, and 0.653 of the logistic regression. In the 5-year cohort, 132 patients were divided into the training set while 33 were into the test set. The specificity, sensitivity, and AUC were 0.882, 0.750, and 0.829 in the RF model. And 0.882, 0.688, and 0.752 of the logistic regression. In the external validation set, of the RF model, the specificity, sensitivity, and AUC were 0.765, 0.812, and 0.779. Of the logistics regression model, the specificity, sensitivity, and AUC were 0.833, 0.376, and 0.619.

Conclusion

The RF model has a good performance in predicting events among BC patients with SD and PD post-NAC. It may be beneficial to BC patients, assisting in detecting tumor recurrence.
Factors associated with anxiety and depression in men undergoing fertility investigations: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kooli Rim , Sallem Amira , Chebil Dhekra , Boussabbeh Manel , Mohamed Bochra Ben , Ajina Tesnim , Boughzela Ines , Mougou Soumaya , Mehdi Meriem
Published: September 2023

Background

Infertility is a real public health issue because of its medical, socio-cultural, and financial impact. It does also have heavy psychological consequences on both partners. This study aimed to assess levels of anxiety and depression among men undergoing infertility investigation and to identify their associated factors.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study in the Laboratory of Cytogenetics and Reproductive Biology of Fattouma Bourguiba University Teaching Hospital (Monastir, Tunisia) between August 30th, 2020, and March 16th, 2021. Anxiety and depression levels were assessed using the valid Arab version of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression scale (HAD). Semen parameters were analyzed and interpreted according to 2021 World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.

Results

A total of 282 men were included in the current study. The mean HAD-D (depression) and HAD-A (anxiety) scores were of 6.56 ± 3.07 (IQR [4–8]) and 7.94 ± 3.73 (IQR[5–10]) respectively. Univariate analysis showed that patients having two or more comorbidities were nearly five times more likely to be anxious than those without or with only one comorbidity (ORc = 4.71; p = 0.007). Furthermore, single patients were about four times more anxious than those in couple having primary or secondary infertility (ORc = 3.85; p = 0.027). With regards to semen parameters, patients having hypospermia were more than two times anxious compared with those with normal semen volume (ORc = 2.33; p = 0.034). As for depression, we observed that patients with an infertility history lasting for a year or more have a nine times greater risk of depression (ORc = 9.848; p = 0.007). With regards to semen parameters, patients exhibiting two or more semen abnormalities, teratozoospermia and increased MAI were more depressed (ORc = 2.478; p = 0.036; ORc = 2.549: p = 0.023; ORc = 2.762; p = 0.036). Furthermore, we found a negative correlation between HAD-A scores and patient’s age.

Conclusions

We pointed out through the current study the associated factors with anxiety and depression in patients under fertility management to precociously identify those who need psychological counseling and hence to better manage infertility issues.
Reappraisal of intra-abdominal candidiasis: insights from peritoneal fluid analysis
Authors: Novy Emmanuel , Esposito Mathieu , Birckener Julien , Germain Adeline , Losser Marie-Reine , Machouart Marie-Claire , Guerci Philippe
Published: September 2023

Background

The understanding of high mortality associated with intra-abdominal candidiasis (IAC) remains limited. While Candida is considered a harmless colonizer in the digestive tract, its role as a true pathogen in IAC is still debated. Evidence regarding Candida virulence in the human peritoneal fluid are lacking. We hypothesized that during IAC, Candida albicans develops virulence factors to survive to new environmental conditions. The objective of this observational exploratory monocentric study is to investigate the influence of peritoneal fluid (PF) on the expression of C. albicans virulence using a multimodal approach.

Materials and methods

A standardized inoculum of a C. albicans (3.106 UFC/mL) reference strain (SC5314) was introduced in vitro into various PF samples obtained from critically ill patients with intra-abdominal infection. Ascitic fluids (AFs) and Sabouraud medium (SBD) were used as control groups. Optical microscopy and conventional culture techniques were employed to assess the morphological changes and growth of C. albicans. Reverse transcriptase qPCR was utilized to quantify the expression levels of five virulence genes. The metabolic production of C. albicans was measured using the calScreener™ technology.

Results

A total of 26 PF samples from patients with secondary peritonitis were included in the study. Critically ill patients were mostly male (73%) with a median age of 58 years admitted for urgent surgery (78%). Peritonitis was mostly hospital-acquired (81%), including 13 post-operative peritonitis (50%). The infected PF samples predominantly exhibited polymicrobial composition. The findings revealed substantial variability in C. albicans growth and morphological changes in the PF compared to ascitic fluid. Virulence gene expression and metabolic production were dependent on the specific PF sample and the presence of bacterial coinfection.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence of C. albicans virulence expression in the peritoneal fluid. The observed variability in virulence expression suggests that it is influenced by the composition of PF and the presence of bacterial coinfection. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the complex dynamics of intra-abdominal candidiasis and advocate for personalized approach for IAC patients.

Trial registrationhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/ (NCT05264571; February 22, 2022)

Graphical Abstract
Behind the Curtain: Prevalence of Symptoms of Depression, Generalised Anxiety and Eating Disorders in 147 Professional Dancers from Six Opera Houses or State Theatres
Authors: Junge Astrid , Hauschild Anja
Published: September 2023

Background

Mental health problems cover a wide spectrum. Depression and anxiety disorders are the most frequent mental health problem in the general population and in elite athletes. The aim of the present study was to assess the prevalence of symptoms of depression, generalised anxiety disorder and eating disorders in professional dancers, to compare the results between genders and to the general population and to analyse potential determinants.

Methods

During a pre-season health screening, professional dancers of six German companies answered a comprehensive questionnaire on personal and dancer-specific characteristics, medical history and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), Generalised Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-7) and Eating-Disorder-Examination-Questionnaire (EDE-QS).

Results

A total of 82 (55.8%) female and 65 (44.2%) male dancers answered the questionnaire. One in five (20.8%) dancers had at least moderate symptoms of either depression, generalised anxiety disorder or eating disorders. The prevalence of at least moderate symptoms of depression was 11.1% in female and 6.4% in male dancers, of generalised anxiety disorder 16.0% in female and 6.4% in male dancers and of eating disorders 14.8% in female and 6.1% in male dancers. Compared to the general population of the same gender and similar age, the prevalence of at least moderate symptoms of generalised anxiety disorder was significantly higher in both genders. About one in four dancers (26.9%) reported a subjective need for support from a psychotherapist at the time of the screening. The PHQ-9, GAD-7 and EDE-QS sum scores were not related to the size or type of the companies, the age or rank of the dancers, but the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 sum score were significantly related to severity of musculoskeletal pain in the past seven days and to chronic or recurrent symptoms of low mood and generalised anxiety.

Conclusion

The prevalence of symptoms of depression, generalised anxiety and eating disorders was high in professional dancers. Routine screening and low-threshold interventions to improve mental health of professional dancers are recommended.
Dementia resources for eating, activity, and meaningful inclusion (DREAM) toolkit co-development: process, output, and lessons learned
Authors: Middleton Laura E. , Freeman Shannon , Pelletier Chelsea , Regan Kayla , Donnelly Rachael , Skinner Kelly , Wei Cindy , Rossnagel Emma , Nasir Huda Jamal , Albisser Tracie , Ajwani Fatim , Aziz Sana , Heibein William , Holmes Ann , Johannesson Carole , Romano Isabella , Sanchez Louisa , Butler Alexandra , Doggett Amanda , Buchan M. Claire , Keller Heather
Published: September 2023

Promoting wellbeing of persons with dementia and their families is a priority of research and practice. Engaging diverse partners, including persons with dementia and their families, to co-develop interventions promotes relevant and impactful solutions. We describe the process, output, and lessons learned from the dementia resources for eating, activity, and meaningful inclusion (DREAM) project, which co-developed tools/resources with persons with dementia, care partners, community service providers, health care professionals, and researchers with the aim of increasing supports for physical activity, healthy eating, and wellbeing of persons with dementia. Our process included: (1) Engaging and maintaining the DREAM Steering Team; (2) Setting and navigating ways of engagement; (3) Selecting the priority audience and content; (4) Drafting the toolkit; (5) Iterative co-development of tools and resources; (6) Usability testing; and (7) Implementation and evaluation. In virtual meetings, the DREAM Steering Team confirmed the toolkit audiences (primary: community service providers; secondary: persons with dementia and care partners) and identified and evolved content areas. An environmental scan identified few existing, high-quality resources aligned with content areas. The Steering Team, additional multi-perspective partners, and external contractors iteratively co-developed new tools/resources to meet gaps over a 4-month virtual process that included virtual meetings, email exchange of documents and feedback, and one-on-one calls by telephone or email. The final DREAM toolkit includes a website with seven learning modules (on the diversity of dementia, rights and inclusion of persons living with dementia, physical activity, healthy eating, dementia-inclusive practices), a learning manual, six videos, nine handouts, and four wallet cards (www.dementiawellness.ca). Our co-development participants rated the process highly in relation to the principles and enablers of authentic partnership even though all engagement was virtual. Through use of the co-developed DREAM toolkit, we anticipate community service providers will gain the knowledge and confidence needed to provide dementia-inclusive wellness programs and services that benefit persons with dementia and their families.
Youth and family involvement in the development of a plain language trial results communication tool: CommuniKIDS
Authors: Baba Ami , Richards Dawn P. , Smith Maureen , Pallone Nicole , Vanderhout Shelley , Prebeg Matthew , Elsman Ellen B. M. , Potter Beth K. , Offringa Martin , Butcher Nancy J.
Published: September 2023

Background

Pediatric trials are possible through voluntary participation of children, youth (age ≤ 18 years), and their families. Despite important arguments for trialists to provide trial progress or results, and evidence that participants desire it, this information remains rarely shared with youth and their families. Little guidance exists on how trialists can best communicate trial results back to participants and their families. Guided by Liabo et al.’s framework, we describe how we developed a pediatric-specific, “plain language summary” clinical trial results template called CommuniKIDS with an adult patient partner, family partner (parent), youth advisors, and parent advisors, taking into account their unique knowledge needs and preferences.

Main text

Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) was integrated in the development of the CommuniKIDS template. In collaboration with Clinical Trials Ontario, we used a generic trial results template as a starting point. The core project leadership team included a patient partner and a family partner from project inception to completion. Five youth (ages 13–18 years) and eight parent advisors were consulted at each point of the development process through three virtual workshops conducted separately; youth workshops were led by a youth facilitator. During these workshops, advisors agreed on the importance and value of sharing trial results, and expressed their preferences on content, format, and timing of sharing trial results. PPI-led improvements included the addition of three new sections to the CommuniKIDS template: “at a glance,” “side effects,” and “next steps.” We reflect on our PPI strategy in the context of five “values” and six “practicalities” identified as good PPI principles, and summarize lessons learned when collaborating with youth and families from this project.

Conclusion

Involvement of a patient partner, a family partner, youth advisors, and parent advisors in the development of CommuniKIDS was critical to create a clinical trial results template that is useful and relevant to its end-users. To our knowledge, CommuniKIDS is the first to meaningfully engage youth and parents as advisors and partners in developing a plain language summary results template for pediatric trial participants and their families. Our experience of co-developing CommuniKIDS demonstrates that meaningful PPI can be achieved in trial results communication and knowledge translation practices. This report provides resources for those seeking to involve youth and families in their initiatives and in meaningfully sharing trial results.
Effect of intradialytic exercise on fall occurrences in older patients undergoing hemodialysis: a single-center non-randomized study
Authors: Yabe Hiroki , Yamaguchi Tomoya , Kono Kenichi , Sakakibara Aiko , Sugimoto Hiroko , Ishikawa Yumiko , Yamaguchi Yoshiko , Azekura Hisanori
Published: September 2023

Background

Given rapid aging of the global population, preventing adverse events such as falls is essential for preserving functional capacity and quality of life among older adults, especially those at high risk due to hemodialysis (HD) treatment. We aimed to investigate the effects of a 3-year intradialytic exercise intervention on fall occurrence and physical performance in older patients undergoing HD.

Methods

Sixty-one patients were non-randomly assigned to the exercise (n = 31) and control groups (n = 30). The exercise group performed aerobic and resistance training during HD three times per week for 3 years. Handgrip strength, lower extremity muscle strength, 10-m walking speed, and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) scores were assessed at baseline. Physical function was reassessed every year in the exercise group. All participants were followed up until the first fall or the end of the study period.

Results

There were no significant between-group differences in baseline data. Over a median follow-up of 35 months, 10 (16.3%) falls occurred, including 1 (3.2%) in the exercise group and 9 (30%) in the control group. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that the exercise intervention significantly reduced the occurrence of falls. No significant differences in physical function were observed among four time points in patients who completed the 3-year program.

Conclusion

Intradialytic exercise may represent an essential intervention for preventing falls in older patients undergoing HD.

Trial registration: This study was retrospectively registered with the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN 00044821, February 4, 2021).
Suicidal cut-throat with medico-legal masquerades: case illustration and review of the literature
Authors: Singh Bajrang K. , Tomar Jitendra S. , Sharma Lokesh , Chauhan M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Furnishing an opinion about the manner may be challenging for a forensic pathologist in cases of spot deaths with isolated cut-throat injury.

Case presentation

This fatality in a young male is elucidated for it to be found markedly deviant with reference to the factors described for suicidal cut-throat injuries, including (1) medical history; (2) death circumstances (non-home); (3) type of object that produced injury; (4) injury pattern in relation to dexterity, lack of old and fresh hesitation cuts at neck and elsewhere, predisposition (horizontal), and extent (superficiality); (5) autopsy findings (non-pale organs); (6) scene evidence/s; (7) findings at viscera examination; and (8) cause of death (choking). The deceased was a cannabis addict, practiced black magic, and lived separated from his wife. There was no lead of the event, and thus an inquest proceeding was initiated.

Conclusion

The possibility of suicide by cut throat by razor blade was considered in the light of the pragmatic comprehension of the post-mortem and scene findings. A case of suicide cut-throat without hesitation cuts, but with venous outpour, and not-so-deep injuries caused by a razor blade, has not been reported. This unprecedented review aims to add to the virtually non-existent literature about medico-legal masquerades rarely seen in suicide cut-throat injuries. It is an endeavor to guide the deduction of the most qualified opinion with a guide to analyzing often undermined and neglected variables in cases of isolated cut-throat injuries. The causative association of marital conflicts that put young males at an increased risk of suicide is highlighted here.
Evaluation of general public awareness, knowledge and attitude about common rheumatic diseases in Egypt: a multicenter study
Authors: Elsabae Ola Eltabey Mahmoud , Habib Hisham Mohammed , Abady Wael Abdelmohsen , Radwan Ahmed Roshdy , Shaat Reham Magdy , Gharbia Ola Mohammad
Published: September 2023

Background

Rheumatic diseases are the diseases of the connective tissue and medical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, with pain and/or stiffness as main manifestations, and which may or may not be accompanied by other organ system involvement. Public and patient’s awareness is needed as the number of patients of various forms of arthritis and other musculoskeletal diseases is constantly on rise.

Objective

The aim of our multicenter study is to evaluate awareness, knowledge, and attitude of general populations regarding common rheumatic diseases in Egypt.

Subjects and methods

This was a multicenter study included 3000 subjects from 4 Egyptian governorates (750 subjects from each): Lower Egypt: Dakahlia and Damietta and Upper Egypt: Sohag and Qena. Entire cases completed the Awareness, Knowledge, and Attitude of Egyptian people towards four of the common rheumatic diseases (Rheumatoid arthritis, Systemic lupus erythematosus, Crystal-induced arthritis, and Osteoarthritis): AKARSCO questionnaire that included basic information, general knowledge, and attitude about rheumatic diseases.

Results

The knowledge and awareness of rheumatic diseases are significantly higher among females. Regarding education level, there is a steady increase in the awareness with the rise of education level, with a highly significant correlation. Non-working and married participants had significantly higher knowledge compared to working and non-married ones. The attitude towards rheumatic diseases is significantly satisfactory among females. Regarding education level, there is a steady increase in the attitude with the rise of education level, with a highly significant correlation. Non-working and married participants had significant satisfactory attitude compared to working and non-married ones. The main sources of information about rheumatic diseases are media and Internet.

Conclusion

The overall awareness, knowledge, and attitude of population towards rheumatic diseases are limited in Egypt. The participants’ total score regarding the general knowledge level of rheumatic diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, SLE, gout, and osteoarthritis is bad. The participants’ overall level regarding the attitude towards rheumatic diseases is unsatisfactory. The level of knowledge and attitude is affected by many factors like sex, work, education, residence, marital status, and family history of rheumatic diseases. The main sources of information about rheumatic diseases are media and Internet.
ЛИНГВИСТИКА ТЕКСТА (РЕЛИГИОЗНЫЙ ТЕКСТ: ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКИ, ЖАНРЫ)
Authors:   Volgograd State Social Pedagogical University, Bobyreva Ekaterina V.
Published: September 2023

Учебное пособие посвящено вопросам лингвистики текста, в частности, характеристикам и особенностям религиозных текстов и жанров. Рекомендуется студентам, магистрантам, аспирантам, в качестве материала к вузовским курсам лингвистики текста.
Solar activity cycle 25: the first three years
Authors: Yazev Sergey , Isaeva Elena , Hos-Erdene Battulga
Published: September 2023

We analyze features of current solar activity cycle 25 for the first three years of its development (2020–2022). Compared to cycle 24, the current cycle is shown to exceed the previous one in the number of sunspot groups (1.5 times), the number of flares (1.8 times), and the total flare index (1.5 times). We have found that distributions of sunspot groups during cycles 24 and 25 differ in maximum area. Solar cycle 25, unlike cycle 24, exhibits the most significant increase in the number of sunspot groups with areas up to 30 pmh and in the interval from 570 to 1000 pmh. In contrast to cycle 24, the degree of north-south asymmetry in cycle 25 is significantly reduced. This allows us to predict an increased height of cycle 25, as compared to cycle 24 (by 20–50 %), in accordance with the Gnevyshev—Ol rule, as well as the possible unimodal nature of the cycle.
Spectral analysis of IAR oscillations to determine the value and variability of the peak electron density NmF2
Authors: Potapov Alexander , Polyushkina Tatyana , Guglielmi Anatol , Ratovsky Konstantin , Moskalev Ilya
Published: September 2023

This methodical paper explores the possibility of estimating the peak electron density of the F2-region of the ionosphere (NmF2) under different conditions, using data on the frequency of spectral bands (harmonics) of the ionospheric Alfvén resonator (IAR) oscillation. We describe a simple technique for tracking the frequency of spectral bands during the day by measuring their position on the plot of the IAR daily dynamic spectrum. Through calculations within the framework of the global ionospheric model IRI-2016, we verify the correctness of the comparison of the frequencies of resonant bands, measured at one point, with data from radio sounding, performed at other points remote from IAR frequency measurement sites at a distance. We propose an algorithm for comparing NmF2, measured by a radiosonde, with frequencies of spectral lines by precalculating the evaluation factor. It is formed on the basis of a nonlinear combination of the frequencies of the three observed harmonics. Then the time series of this factor is compared with the results of radio sounding, and correlation and regression coefficients, as well as estimation errors are calculated. Using the material on rare cases of round-the-clock observation of IAR oscillations in the winter months of 2011–2012, we trace the dependence of the average error in determining the peak electron density on local time. We present the data on the most favorable local time intervals for determining NmF2 from IAR harmonic frequencies depending on season. Some additional factors are discussed which affect the accuracy of estimates and determine the frequency range of IAR oscillations.
Influence of geomagnetic disturbances on scintillations of GLONASS and GPS signals as observed on the Kola Peninsula
Authors: Belahovskiy Vladimir , Budnikov Pavel , Kalishin Alexey , Pilgaev Sergey , Roldugin Alexey
Published: September 2023

We have compared effects of geomagnetic disturbances during magnetic storms of various types (CME and CIR) and during an isolated substorm on scintillations of GLONASS and GPS signals, using a Septentrio PolaRx5 receiver installed in Apatity (Murmansk Region, Russia). We analyze observational data for 2021. The magnetic storms of November 3–4, 2021 and October 11–12, 2021 are examined in detail. The November 3–4, 2021 magnetic storm was one of the most powerful in recent years. The analysis shows that the scintillation phase index reaches its highest values during nighttime and evening substorms (σϕ≈1.5–1.8), accompanied by a negative bay in the magnetic field. During magnetic storms, positive bays in the magnetic field, associated with an increase in the eastward electrojet, lead, however, to quite comparable values of the phase scintillation index. An increase in phase scintillations during nighttime and evening disturbances correlates with an increase in the intensity of ULF waves (Pi3/Pc5 pulsations) and with the appearance of aurora arcs. This confirms the important role of ULF waves in forming the auroral arc and in developing ionospheric irregularities. The predominance of the green line in the spectrum of auroras indicates the contribution of disturbances in the ionospheric E layer to the scintillation increase. Pulsating auroras, associated with ionospheric disturbances in the D layer, do not lead to a noticeable increase in phase scintillations. Analysis of ionospheric critical frequencies according to ionosonde data from the Lovozero Hydrometeorological Station indicates the contribution of the sporadic Es layer of the ionosphere to jumps in phase scintillations. The difference between phase scintillation values on GLONASS and GPS satellites during individual disturbances can be as great as 1.5 times, which may be due to different orbits of the satellites. At the same time, the level of GLONASS/GPS scintillations at the L2 frequency is higher than at the L1 frequency. We did not find an increase in the amplitude index of scintillations during the events considered.
Identification of spectrum of secondary acoustic-gravity waves in the middle and upper atmosphere in a high-resolution numerical model
Authors: Gavrilov Nikolay , Kshevetskii Sergey
Published: September 2023

Considerable attention has recently been paid to the study of so-called “secondary” acoustic-gravity waves (AGWs) that arise as a result of instability and nonlinear interactions of “primary” wave modes propagating from atmospheric sources, among themselves, and with the mean flow. In this paper, for the first time, the horizontal spatial spectra of primary and secondary AGWs are separated at fixed altitude levels in the middle and upper atmosphere at different time moments, which are simulated using a three-dimensional nonlinear high-resolution model AtmoSym. It is shown that in a short time after switching on the plane wave source at the lower boundary of the model, the spectrum consists of a peak corresponding to primary AGW and quasi-white noise generated by random atmospheric disturbances and the numerical model. Later, secondary peaks appear in the spectra at horizontal wave numbers, which are multiples of the wave numbers of primary AGW. The proposed separation of the spectra of primary and secondary AGWs makes it possible to estimate the relative contribution of secondary AGW at different altitudes, at different times, and with different stability of background temperature and wind profiles in the atmosphere.
Database of geomagnetically induced currents in the main transmission line “Northern Transit”
Authors: Selivanov Vasiliy , Aksenovich Tatyana , Bilin Vladislav , Kolobov Vitaliy , Saharov Yaroslav
Published: September 2023

Database containing the results of measurements of geomagnetically induced currents (GIC) for the period of 2011 to 2022 in transformer neutrals at three 330 kV substations of the main power transmission lines “Northern Transit” passing through the territory of the Republic of Karelia, Murmansk and Leningrad regions has been created and is publicly available. The GIC value depends on the geoelectric field magnitude in the Earth surface, on the relative position of the substations to which the power transmission lines are connected, and on the resistance of electrical network elements. Important factors are the electrical network branching, which determines paths of induced current spreading, and the network topology at the time of monitoring data acquisition. We describe the structure and principles of functioning of the Russian unique regional monitoring system of geomagnetically induced currents in the electrical network. We demonstrate the features of the data contained in the GIC database, which must be taken into account when processing and analyzing the data. Examples of using the GIC database for energy and geophysical studies are given. The work performed on the organization of continuous monitoring of GIC at substations of the main power transmission line in the Arctic zone has no analogues in the Russian Federation and provides extensive original material that allows us to study geomagnetic disturbances and their impact on electrical networks. The database is available at [http://gic.en51.ru]
A differentiated approach to the management of patients with hyperplastic diseases of the uterus complicated by abnormal uterine bleeding
Authors: Lomakina I. , Rozhkovska N. , Sytnikova V. , Syviy S.
Published: September 2023

The purpose: to justify a differentiated approach to the management of patients with hyperplastic uterine diseases complicated by abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) based on the study of the morpho-functional features of the endo- and myometrium. It has been shown that PgR expression is low in patients with combined lesions of the endometrium and myometrium complicated by AMC. The degree of PgR expression has a strong negative correlation with pathological changes of the endometrial-myometrial junction (r=-0.71), which made it possible to consider these criteria in the creation of a differentiated algorithm for the management of patients taking into account clinical and morphological pathogenetic variants of the disease. The use of differentiated approaches to the treatment of patients with combined hyperplastic processes of the uterus, taking into account the clinical and morphological features of the disease, made it possible to reduce the number of recurrences of AMC and achieve a long-term clinical effect in comparison with traditional treatment.
A new route to practise sedation independently: integrated conscious sedation training in dental core training
Authors: Williams Jack , Blaylock Paul , Smith Malcolm , Wilson Katherine
Published: September 2023

Standards for the provision of and training in dental sedation in the UK are outlined by the Intercollegiate Advisory Committee for Sedation in Dentistry. They detail the necessary curriculum and training that dental practitioners must complete to be able to practise conscious sedation independently. When reviewing the training requirements, it was considered possible to incorporate this into a dental core training scheme where trainees were undertaking sedation as part of their clinical duties. A programme was established to train dental core trainees to undertake independent sedation practice, which was submitted to the local office of Health Education England for validation. This has resulted in a number of dental core trainees becoming certified to independently provide conscious sedation, contributing to their continual professional development.
Non-employment, gender norms and the risk of couple separation in eastern and western Germany
Authors: Stief Kathrin
Published: September 2023

This paper examines and compares the impact of non-employment – more precisely female and male unemployment and female labour-market inactivity – on cohabiting and married couples’ separation risk in eastern and western Germany. Although Germany has experienced substantial changes in the spheres of family and labour market in recent decades, differences between the former East and West Germany persist even over 30 years after reunification. Applying conditional logistic fixed-effect models to German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP) data, I find the following: in western Germany, where – despite a trend towards more egalitarian gender norms – traditional gender norms still prevail, male unemployment increases couples’ separation risk, whereas female labour-market inactivity reduces it. Examining change across two birth cohorts – women born in or before 1971 and women born after 1971 – I find for western Germany that the effects of male and female unemployment on couple separation appear to be converging, and the relationship-stabilising effect of female labour-market inactivity seems to be diminishing. This is in line with the trend towards egalitarian gender norms in that region. In eastern Germany, both female and male unemployment have a relationship-destabilising effect in the older birth cohort, which might reflect the more egalitarian gender norms there. However, the relationship-destabilising effect of male and female unemployment is diminishing, and can no longer be found in the younger birth cohort. Unexpectedly, for eastern German women born after 1971, labour-market inactivity is relationship-stabilising, which was not the case in the older cohort.
Scrapbook Historiography: The American Catholic Historical Society's Early History, 1884–1904
Authors: Hayes Patrick J.
Published: September 2023

Abstract: This essay presents a kind of lens or technique for obtaining information on the founding years of the American Catholic Historical Society. Most historians of the Society have relied on its printed literature, especially this journal, but much can be gleaned from contemporary scrapbooks assembled by early members. Through their pages, a more accurate picture of the Society's first decade emerges, and with it, a new method for documentation of its history. The author explores the utility of scrapbooks as such but posits that the ACHS scrapbooks relate important aspects of late nineteenth century collecting habits, the role of lay people in the local church, and the impact of ethnic Catholicism in what counts as vital markers for one generation's heritage and the legacy they wish to bequeath.
Don't Move! Choreography as a Means of Arranging Protest in Times of Curfew
Authors: Foellmer Susanne
Published: September 2023

Abstract: This article investigates protesting when there are restrictions on public assembly. In spring 2020, social movements (partly unwittingly) used choreographic means in order to deal with the prohibition of public gatherings, imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Examples in Tel Aviv ( Black Flag protest, 19 April) and the campaign Empty Chairs in Germany (24 April) have one prominent characteristic in common: The lack of expansive spatial movement. The article delineates the ways in which these protests aimed to make their voices heard: Choreographic arrangements of physically distanced bodies were assigned on site to produce highly affective images for social media, thus shifting the focus of the protests' visibility into the online public sphere. In addition, the different situations of vulnerable bodies calling to action are of interest: Given the pandemic times, the concept of protection takes precedence.
ABBAs Hologramm-Show. Mit ‚Gestorbenem' leben
Authors: Zorn Magdalena
Published: September 2023

Abstract: Im Jahr 2022 machte die Musikwelt durch ein besonderes Ereignis auf sich aufmerksam: Zu erleben war das Comeback der Band ABBA in Form einer Bühnenshow, die vier Avatare bestreiten. Diese ‚ABBAtare', die äußerlich deckungsgleich mit Agnetha, Björn, Benny und Anni-Frid aus den späten 1970er Jahren sind, rufen beim Publikum ähnlich enthusiastische Reaktionen hervor wie sterbliche Popstars. Ausgehend von der Konstellation zwischen humanem Publikum und digitalen Avataren werden die für die Hologramm-Show ABBA Voyage konstitutive Zeitlichkeit sowie spezifische Formen der Liveness beschrieben, die Rezipient*innen dabei erzeugen. Einer atmosphärischen Form von Liveness, die durch Vergegenwärtigung von ‚Gestorbenem' zustande kommt, wird eine reflexive Liveness gegenübergestellt, die aus der humanen Selbstbefragung im posthumanen Raum resultiert. Im Unterschied zu den Raumbegriffen von ‚Atmosphäre' und ‚Reflexion' bringt derjenige der ‚Ökologie', wie der Artikel abschließend zeigen will, in solche Akte humaner Zentrierung eine Aporie.
Determinant Performance of Islamic Equity Funds in Indonesia
Authors: Julendra Alif Khuwarazmi Maulana , Wijayanti Dwi Marlina , Haryono Slamet
Published: September 2023

One of the issues that have an impact on the growth of Islamic Equity Funds is financial risk tolerance. While it is a fundamental issue that is directly related to Islamic Equity Fund’s manager performance. If investment managers perform better to cultivate Islamic Equity Funds, then the intention in investing within Islamic Equity Funds will be increased. This research aims to determine and provide information about Islamic Equity Funds' performance in Indonesia. It used quantitative statistical analysis to investigate the influence of stock selection skills, market timing ability, fund size, fund age, expense ratio, and portfolio turnover towards the Islamic Equity Funds performance. This study used annual data over the periods 2015-2020 which was obtained from the prospectus of each Islamic Equity Fund, Central Bank Indonesia (BI), and Statistics Indonesia (BPS). The result indicates that stock selection skill and expense ratio have a positive significant impact on the performance of Islamic Equity Funds, while market timing ability, fund age, and fund size have not a significant impact but the result revealed positive values. Otherwise, the portfolio turnover has a negative significant impact on Islamic Equity Funds' performance. Hence, it can be inferred that the higher investment managers ability to select its portfolio stock, the better return will be obtained and it can be inferred that the expense ratio of an equity fund reflects how much it pays for portfolio management, administration, marketing, and distribution, among other things.
Originality/Value: This paper focuses on the issue that occur in Islamic equity funds which are very essential as an investment portfolio, and only a few papers have conducted research in this area. Therefore, knowing the key factors that influence the performance of Islamic equity funds can optimize their function and attract investors.
Rancang Bangun Aplikasi Pengadaan Barang dan Jasa Universitas Negeri XYZ dengan Metode Extreme Programming
Authors: Wonoseto Muhammad Galih , Maulana Arman , Asyari Mahfud
Published: September 2023

The Indonesian government has provided the LKPP application in procuring goods and services for government agencies. However, several procurement processes at XYZ State University still do not use the LKPP application. Some of the reasons that are often stated are that the goods available in LKPP are not complete and the location of suppliers in LKPP is outside the city and the province. It is required to create an application for them at XYZ State University to promote digitization and transparency in procuring products and services at XYZ University. This application development uses the extreme programming method. This research succeeded in identifying the functionality requirements required in e-purchasing applications. The results of this research were able to realize 91.6% of all the necessary features. Some features that can be recognized include dashboard features, user access rights sharing features, goods/services requirements features, goods/services offering features, goods/services offer approval features, payment features, and specification features. The feature that has not been fulfilled is the direct purchase feature. The applications produced in this research may be adapted at universities or other government agencies.