bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Black-Box impossibility of multi-designated verifiers signature schemes from ring signature schemes
Authors: Yamashita Kyosuke , Hara Keisuke
Published: February 2024

From the work by Laguillaumie and Vergnaud in ICICS’04, it has been widely believed that multi-designated verifiers signature scheme (MDVS) can be constructed from ring signature schemes in general. However, in this article, somewhat surprisingly, we prove that it is impossible to construct an MDVS scheme from a ring signature scheme in a black-box sense (in the standard model). The impossibility stems from the difference between the definitions of unforgeability of the two schemes. To the best of our knowledge, existing works demonstrating the constructions do not provide formal reductions from an MDVS scheme to a ring signature scheme, and thus, the impossibility has been overlooked for a long time.
Searchable encryption with randomized ciphertext and randomized keyword search
Authors: Calderini Marco , Longo Riccardo , Sala Massimiliano , Villa Irene
Published: February 2024

The notion of public-key encryption with keyword search (PEKS) was introduced to search over encrypted data without performing any decryption. In this article, we propose a PEKS scheme in which both the encrypted keyword and the trapdoor are randomized so that the cloud server is not able to recognize identical queries a priori. Our scheme is Ciphertext-Indistinguishabiltity secure in the single-user setting and Trapdoor-Indistinguishability secure in the multi-user setting with a stronger security, i.e., with multi-trapdoor.
Turbulence mitigation in FSO based on turbo coding and equalization
Authors: Hameed Samir M.
Published: February 2024

Free space optical (FSO) communication has gained considerable interest for various applications because of its high speed, security, and low power consumption, which seem like promising advantages for the future. FSO systems are severely constrained by turbulence produced by air temperature and density fluctuations, resulting in scattered and distorted light beams. The capacity and bit error rate (BER) of an FSO link can be influenced by fading brought on by turbulence. Turbulence raises the BER, especially under conditions of moderate and high turbulence. The proposed model suggests using a turbo encoder with an intensity modulator at the FSO transmitter and combining maximum likelihood estimation (MLE), zero-forcing equalization (ZFE), and a turbo decoder for the direct detection receiver. However, MLE does an accurate channel estimate, which minimizes fading and turbulence. ZFE improves the quality of the link even further, while turbo coding lowers the bit error rate by increasing redundancy and greatly enhancing error-correcting capability. The Gamma–Gamma turbulence model simulation showed the proposed system’s superiority over other techniques, which achieved a BER of 10−5 with a signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 16 dB for moderate and strong turbulence, respectively. Consequently, even though turbo coding adds redundancy to the signal, it can achieve substantial coding gains that increase FSO capacity.
Lithium niobate thin film electro-optic modulator
Authors: Liu Jikun , Qu Lun , Wu Wei , Jin Chunyan , Chen Zhihao , Gu Zhidong , Liu Weiye , Wang Chenxiong , Zheng Dahuai , Liu Hongde , Cai Wei , Ren Mengxin , Xu Jingjun
Published: February 2024

The linear electro-optic effect offers a valuable means to control light properties via an external electric field. Lithium niobate (LN), with its high electro-optic coefficients and broad optical transparency ranges, stands out as a prominent material for efficient electro-optic modulators. The recent advent of lithium niobate-on-insulator (LNOI) wafers has sparked renewed interest in LN for compact photonic devices. In this study, we present an electro-optic modulator utilizing a thin LN film sandwiched between top and bottom gold (Au) film electrodes, forming a Fabry–Pérot (F–P) resonator. This resonator exhibits spectral resonance shifts under an applied electric field, enabling efficient modulation of reflected light strength. The modulator achieved a 2.3 % modulation amplitude under ±10 V alternating voltage. Our approach not only presents a simpler fabrication process but also offers larger modulation amplitudes compared to previously reported metasurface based LN electro-optic modulators. Our results open up new opportunities for compact electro-optic modulators with applications in beam steering devices, dynamic holograms, and spatial light modulators, and more.
Rational design of arbitrary topology in three-dimensional space via inverse calculation of phase modulation
Authors: Chang Hwanseok , Kwon Sungjoo , Bae Gwangmin , Jeon Seokwoo
Published: February 2024

Recent advances in nanotechnology have led to the emergence of metamaterials with unprecedented properties through precisely controlled topologies. To explore metamaterials with nanoscale topologies, interest in three-dimensional nanofabrication methods has grown and led to rapid production of target nanostructures over large areas. Additionally, inverse design methods have revolutionized materials science, enabling the optimization of microstructures and topologies to achieve the desired properties without extensive experimental cycles. This review highlights the recent progress in inverse design methods applied in proximity-field nanopatterning. It introduces novel approaches, such as adjoint methods and particle swarm optimization, to achieve target topologies and high-resolution nanostructures. Furthermore, machine learning algorithms for inverse design are explored, demonstrating the potential efficacy of the phase-mask design. This comprehensive review offers insights into the progress of inverse design using phase modulation to realize target topologies of nanostructures.
On Minimal Yield and Form Copy: evidence from East Asian languages
Authors: Saito Mamoru
Published: February 2024

The FormCopy (FC) analysis of control proposed by Noam Chomsky develops Norbert Hornstein’s movement analysis. This paper points out that there is inconsistency between both analyses and the standard phase theory. Then, it presents a new definition of phase and the PIC that makes reference to ϕ-feature agreement in order to resolve this inconsistency. Minimal Yield (MY) is one of the conditions on Merge that distinguish the FC analysis from the movement analysis. It is a fundamental assumption in the FC analysis but rules out sideward movements employed in the movement analysis. The second part of the paper first introduces Hisatsugu Kitahara’s analysis of “proper binding” effects in terms of MY. Then, it shows that this analysis, together with the newly proposed definition of phase and the PIC, correctly predicts a surprising difference between English and Japanese with respect to the “proper binding” phenomenon. This constitutes further evidence for MY and hence for the FC analysis of control.
Whether-exclamatives: a verum strategy
Authors: Amido Sara , Buchczyk Sebastian
Published: February 2024

Verum has been attested in declaratives, interrogatives, and imperatives. In this paper, we show that whether-exclamatives, a subtype of exclamatives, also qualify as a verum strategy, thus showing that the phenomenon ranges across all sentence moods. Motivation stems from the discourse properties of our data and the pragmatic contrast between whether-exclamatives and plain assertions. Furthermore, we argue that whether-exclamatives are illocutionarily defined as a coordination of assertion and excl, the illocutionary force of exclamatives. Assembling the formal tools for exclamatives, verum, and speech act coordination, we provide an analysis of verum in this complex hybrid speech act.
Effect of lanthanum (La) substitution on the magnetic and electrical properties of nickel ferrites: an investigation of its doping concentrations
Authors: Deenan Venugopal Anandhi , Selvaraj Selvanandan , Sahadevan Jhelai , Kim Ikhyun , Ramalingam Parameshwari , Paramasivam Sivaprakash
Published: February 2024

The structural, morphological, magnetic, and dielectric properties of lanthanum substituted nickel ferrite (NiLa
x
Fe2−x
O4) nanoparticles have been reported in this article. The amount of lanthanum substitution in NiLa
x
Fe2−x
O4 sample was varied from x = 0.025 to 0.125. The nanocrystalline Ni–La ferrites were synthesized using a solution combustion reaction (SCR) method. The orthorhombic crystal system of space group Pnma (62) is shown as the single-phase in all samples through structural investigation utilizing an X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern. The observed trend indicates a positive correlation between the concentration of La and the corresponding rise in the predicted crystallite size values, which range from 60.5 nm to 65.2 nm. The nanoscale of the surface morphology has been confirmed by the utilisation of field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Energy dispersive X-ray (EDAX) mapping provides the compositional evidence for the prepared Ni–La ferrites. In addition, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) determines the ionic state of the individual atoms present in these samples. It reveals that there are no changes in the ionic state of the parent component atoms by substituting La. EDAX and XPS evidence the purity of prepared NiLa
x
Fe2−x
O4 samples without any other impurity elements. By regulating the composition of dopants, this research can substantiate the superparamagnetic characteristics of ferrites. The paramagnetic nature of lanthanum atoms involves in reducing the coercivity value. The dielectric measurement on NiLa
x
Fe2−x
O4 samples reveals that La3+ substitution effectively influence the electro-transport properties.
Intelligent System for Cognitive Study on Student Work Network Based on the Information of Public Opinion with the Background of IOT
Authors: Zhu Lin
Published: February 2024

Neurological, behavioral, and cognitive problems in teenage students are rising day by day. It is very important to handle these issues by gathering information from public opinion. The distribution of public opinion information in student work is unsystematic, and it is difficult to extract the needed information intelligently. An intelligent extraction algorithm of public opinion data from student work is proposed in this research and is based on human–computer interaction, machine learning, and computational techniques. In the student work, a fuzzy semantic autocorrelation mapping feature set of public opinion information is developed together with a spatial structural model of data semantic distribution features. The statistical feature quantity of semantic similarity of the public opinion data is retrieved from the student work, and the semantic ambiguity is decreased. Analyses using adaptive learning and machine understanding and human–computer interaction are used to process it. In the human–computer interaction machine understanding center, the processor adjusts the grid partition of public opinion information of the student work according to the difference of statistical features, then constructs the feature decomposition model of student behavior, and then performs context mapping. Finally, the semantic analysis is carried out to analyze the student behavior based on the cognitive study. The simulation outcomes demonstrate that the proposed method is computationally inexpensive, has low time complexity, and has real-time monitoring ability of public opinion information on student behavior.
Empirical Followership Research Since the Publication of the Formal Theory of Followership by Uhl-Bien et al. (2014) — A Systematic Review
Authors: Ribbat Mirko , Klasmeier Kai N. , Hüffmeier Joachim
Published: February 2024

Since Uhl-Bien et al. (2014) presented their Formal Theory of Followership (FTF), followership research has been perceived as an emerging field. However, recent primary studies and reviews show that there is currently no consensus on what followership is and what it is not. To address this lack of clarity and using the lens of Uhl-Bien’s et al. (2014) seminal work, we conducted a systematic review of empirical followership research. To advance followership research, we refine and further develop the criteria for what can and what cannot be classified as a followership study in accordance with the theory. Based on these criteria, we analyze the different approaches to followership that Uhl-Bien et al. (2014) proposed, the methodological approaches, the different measures used, and the studied variables of 89 studies that we included in our systematic review. As a result, we show how empirical followership research has developed since 2014, what has been neglected, and what can be learned from the reviewed studies. Our analysis reveals that FTF provides a valuable theoretical framework to integrate a wide variety of research that contributes to a better understanding of the role of followers and following in leadership. While we find a clear trend toward more pertinent research activity, empirical followership research develops more strongly in terms of number of publications rather than in their quality.
Surface Properties of Hardwood Papers in Relation to Fibres and Vessels
Authors:   CSIRO Forest Products Laboratory, Division of Applied Chemistry, South Melbourne, Australia, Colley J. , de Yong J. ,   CSIRO Forest Products Laboratory, Division of Applied Chemistry, South Melbourne, Australia, Higgins H. G. ,   CSIRO Forest Products Laboratory, Division of Applied Chemistry, South Melbourne, Australia
Published: February 2024

The surface properties of hardwood papers are determined largely by the nature of the fibres and vessel elements (henceforth referred to as vessels) and the possibilities for interfibre and fibre to vessel hydrogen bonding. Experiments with Eucalyptus species and tropical hardwoods covering a wide range of wood densities have shown that surface smoothness as well as bulk mechanical properties depend on the lateral conformability of the fibres and that the response to beating, in terms of surface smoothness, is more marked for pulps with fibres of high Runkel ratio. Effective removal of vessels from pulps was accomplished on a laboratory scale by a method based on that used by Jacquelin for flocculation studies. Vessel removal resulted in a drastic reduction in the vessel IGT pick number. A comparison between the picking tendency of two eucalypt pulps with similar external fibre and vessel dimensions, similar vessel concentrations, but with greatly different fibre lumen diameters, indicated that the bonding strength between fibres and vessels is an important factor in picking, as well as vessel size and concentration. Laterally conformable fibres from low density woods can provide the necessary fibre-to-vessel bonding. Beating has a very pronounced effect in reducing pick number and the question arises whether breaking up of the vessels or improved bonding is mainly responsible. The wider use of hardwood resources for fine papers, particularly for offset printing papers, depends on the surface properties that can be attained.
Mass Distribution and Sheet Properties of Paper
Authors:   Paper Technology Department, Swedish Forest Products Research Laboratory, Stockholm, Norman B. , Wahren D. ,   Paper Technology Department, Swedish Forest Products Research Laboratory, Stockholm
Published: February 2024

Three terms that refer to the distribution of local grammage in the plane of a sheet of paper are introduced-the intensity, macroscale and microscale of mass distribution. The measurement of these quantities by an optical method and by beta radiography is discussed. Data are obtained by a specially designed microdensitometer and analysed by a frequency analyser. Results are presented as wavelength spectra of mass distribution. Experimental spectra for handsheets and machine-made sheets are compared with theoretical spectra for sheets composed of fibres having randomly distributed orientations and positions. It is shown both theoretically and experimentally that it is important to use a small measuring area. A poor mass distribution is demonstrated to have a negative influence on the scattering coefficient and opacity of paper. It is shown how the mass distribution and other paper properties affect the visual appearance of multi-ply board and the lookthrough and print-through of paper. The concept of mass distribution is extended to the distribution of ink on paper. The connections between the mass distribution of ink and the mottle of the prints are discussed. Finally, the adverse effect of a poor mass distribution on the strength properties of handsheets and machine-made sheets is demonstrated using recent (partly unpublished) experimental data by Cavlin & Rudström.
Compliance With the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Relating to Disclosure in Algeria
Authors: Mohammed Reda Bendoukha , Bouflaja Kaloum
Published: February 2024

The present study aims at the highlighting of the disclosure standards in the international public sector accounting standards (IPSAS) as well as the implementation extent in the public accounting system in Algeria through the 18/15 organic law relating to the financial laws, in particular. In addition to that is the highlighting of a number of disclosure standards in international accounting, in general. The study adopted a descriptive, analytical approach to the disclosure standards relating to the public sector. The findings indicated that a number of disclosure standards relating to the public sector are implemented at 60%, which is a significant percentage that significantly contributes to the public sector modernization as well as the establishment of an effective, modern accounting system based on and mirrors transparency.
Investigation of the Comorbidity of Bronchial Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis in Children
Authors: Madridovich Mirzakhanov Said , Magomedovich Abdulkhalikov Magomedsaid , Raidinovna Nazila Abdurakhmanova , Abdullatipovna Amangulova Diana , Shakhmuradovna Zalova Bella , Abubakarovna Salmakhanova Khadidja , Aligadzhievich Aliev Magomedrasul , Abubakarovich Salmakhanov Abusufyan
Published: February 2024

Today there is an increasing tendency for all allergic diseases, including a high prevalence of bronchial asthma (BA), as well as an increasing number of patients with co-morbidities. Allergic rhinitis leads in frequency of occurrence with bronchial asthma. In the last decade, the term comorbidity has often been used to define the interrelation as well as the mutual influence of 2 or more syndromes, diseases in one patient. The aim of the research was to study the comorbidity of bronchial asthma and allergic rhinitis in children in the Department of Pulmonology. The retrospective study included an analysis of 51 case histories of children diagnosed with atopic bronchial asthma. Of the 51 patients, 28 children (54.9±7%) were diagnosed with allergic rhinitis after examination by an ENT specialist.
Assessing the Association between Neurocognitive Performance and Quality of Life in Individuals with Chronic Pain: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hassan Muhammad Ali , Khan Arham Yahya Rizwan , Baig Usman , Rehman Rana Anees ur , Tahir Ahmed Raza , Hussain Iman , Khera Muneeb Hassan , Azhar Misbah
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Chronic pain, a pervasive global health challenge, significantly impacts individuals' daily functioning and quality of life. This cross-sectional study explores the complex interplay between neurocognitive performance and quality of life in individuals experiencing chronic pain, recognizing the multifaceted nature of this phenomenon. Objectives Investigate the association between neurocognitive performance and chronic pain severity. Examine the relationship between neurocognitive deficits and different domains of quality of life in chronic pain. Methods: A diverse sample of 113 participants from Islamabad and Rawalpindi underwent correlational analysis. Neurocognitive performance was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), chronic pain severity was determined by pain history, and quality of life was measured using a validated scale. Demographic information was collected through an online survey. Results: The sample exhibited diversity in age, gender, and education. Pain history varied, with a majority reporting pain duration of 1-2 years. Neurocognitive performance, measured by MoCA, showed a mean score of 6.6 (±2.1), while the Quality of Life Scale yielded a mean score of 82 (±15). Correlation analysis revealed a weak negative association between neurocognitive performance and quality of life, though statistically non-significant (p = .279). Similarly, the correlation between pain history duration and neurocognitive performance was minimal and non-significant (p = .757). Conclusion: Contrary to expectations, the study did not find a significant correlation between neurocognitive performance and quality of life in individuals with chronic pain. The nuanced relationships observed highlight the complexity of chronic pain experiences, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding that goes beyond the traditional pain-cognition paradigm. Tailored interventions should consider individual differences and address diverse cognitive and psychosocial factors, aiming to improve the overall well-being of those navigating the challenges of chronic pain.
EVALUACIÓN DEL PROCESO DE PRIVATIZACIÓN DE LAS EMPRESAS DE SERVICIOS PÚBLICOS 1991-2000
Authors: Castillo Maza Juan
Published: February 2024

La evaluación del proceso de privatización de las empresas de servicios públicos se enmarca dentro de las líneas de investigación de la Unidad de Investigación de la Facultad, específicamente en el área de gestión y evaluación. Entre las principales empresas de servicios públicos que han sido privatizados, se encuentran las de telecomunicaciones CPT/ENTEL PERÚ ahora Telefónica del Perú, electricidad -Distribución de electricidad- ahora LUZ DEL SUR y EDELNOR y transportes -Empresa de Transporte Aéreo del Perú S.A.- AEROPERÚ y la Empresa Nacional de Transporte Urbano del Perú ENATRU PERÚ S.A. En conjunto las transacciones al año de 1998, por US$ 5.101 millones de dólares americanos representan el 61% del total del proceso que asciende a US$ 8.385 millones de dólares americanos, e inversiones proyectadas de US$ 1.980,4 millones de dólares americanos que repre- sentan el 29% del total comprometido por US$ 6.830,7 millones de dólares americanos.
Works of Erasmus of Rotterdam in Vilnius University Library
Authors: Jovaišaitė Emilija
Published: February 2024

This paper analyses the works of Erasmus of Rotterdam in the collection of Vilnius University Library, printed during the 16th–18th c. Erasmus’ reception in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania remains a largely unexplored topic. Historiography only alludes to specific cases so a broader overview would contribute to a deeper understanding of the developments of the reading society of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania.

The aim of this the paper is to provide comprehensive analysis and explore the topics of the variety of titles, geography of Erasmus’ publishing, history of ownership and reading culture. As most of the copies in Lithuania belonged to clergy or religious orders, theologically and philologically themed works were the most popular. Erasmus’ satires were not as numerous but more longevous in terms of popularity. Most of the copies reached Lithuania from German and Dutch printers. Predominantly Catholic ownership in Lithuania resulted in cases of censorship, most of which were relatively mild as compared to other Catholic countries. Marginalia suggest an active and engaging reader.
“Spinster”: a Portrait of an Unmarried Woman in the Late Soviet Era in the Lithuanian Press
Authors: Vaitkutė Goda
Published: February 2024

The work examines a portrait of an unmarried woman called “spinster” of the late Soviet era (1968–1985), in the Soviet Lithuanian press. This research is not about unmarried or childless woman, but only those who have been considered “spinster”. The existence of a “spinster” in the press is not analyzed at all. It should be noted, that the very concept of the “spinster” is a problem, which is why this work examines its definition based on the understanding of the time.
The Contemporary Lithuanian Comic Culture and the History Motifs within it
Authors: Svitojus Kasparas
Published: February 2024

The article focuses on comics published in Lithuania during the period of Lithuanian independence (1990–2022) and the historical plots used in them. The conducted research showed that the development of the comics format in Lithuania lags behind compared to other regions of the world. After researching Lithuanian comics, it became clear that most of them are historical. In Lithuania, historical comics can be divided into biographical, adventure, educational, or intended to convey a specific process, event or object. They are dominated by the 20th century events and personalities. In Lithuanian comics, history is presented through various phenomena such as clothing, architecture, recognizable historical figures, etc.
Nutritional status and dietary patter, as an indicator for cell health in autism spectrum disorder- a case study assessment
Authors: Moiniafshari Kimia , Shabani Jafarabadi Golbarg , Salimian Ghazal , Behzadi Nezhad Hafez
Published: February 2024

The prevalence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased within the past decade, which has increased the health authority concern due the higher demand for health services. Nutritional problems, such as food refusal, restricted dietary intake, nutritional deficiencies, food allergies and food intolerance, are known as common nutritional challenges among individuals with ASD. Unhealthy dietary pattern and their adverse health outcomes may affect individual’s health and increase the risk of several health complications as a result. the result of unhealthy and restrict dietary pattern may be manifested in cell health, mitochondrial function and regulatory gene expression, which can predict the risk of cell damage, inflammation, oxidative stress and chronic disease. The purpose of this case study was to assess the relation between dietary intake using food recall, food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and one-week food record with the level of TNF-a, IL-1 and IL-6 in a 10 years old high function girl diagnosed with ASD.
The effect of physical activity and dietary modification on adiponectin expression in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Moiniafshari Kimia , Shabani Jafarabadi Golbarg , c Salimian Ghazal , Behzadi Nezhad Hafez
Published: February 2024

Adiponectins are considered as important health related indicator. The expression of adiponectin gene, can be affected by lifestyle including physical activity status and dietary pattern. Low physical activity level and poor dietary pattern are important health challenges among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) which may decrease their quality of life and increase the prevalence of chronic complications including obesity, metabolic impairment and cardiovascular disease. Increase the level of physical activity along with dietary pattern modification, an increase the expression of adiponectin which may have beneficial outcomes in individuals with ASD. It has been suggested that the combination of physical activity and nutritional modification, may improve adiponectin gene expression by cellular cascade activation, which may improve metabolism, insulin sensitivity especially in target tissues and glucose homeostasis. The most beneficial and recommended type of physical activity and nutritional intervention for improving adiponectin level and its circulation, is not clear yet and it seems that interventions should be recommended according to ASD individuals health status and underlying complications.
Retrospective evaluation of patients diagnosed with Primary Hyperaldosteronism
Authors: Sanyal Debmalya
Published: February 2024

Primary hyperaldosteronism (PA), despite being a common disease, is grossly underdiagnosed and undertreated. Though in primary care prevalence of PA is 4–6% in patients with hypertension, it is much higher in specialized hypertensive clinics, especially in resistant hypertension (RH). PA is associated with higher morbidity rates than matched essential hypertension patients. PA is classified as unilateral and bilateral disease, with adrenalectomy considered for unilateral disease and medical management with mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRA) for bilateral disease. There is gross underdiagnosis of PA across the world with very limited literature on PA from India. We wanted to retrospectively evaluate the profile of patients diagnosed with PA from case records, in outpatient settings in a tertiary care hospital. Primary outcomes of the study will be to evaluate the presenting features of PA patients. This includes clinical, biochemical, radiological aspects in different subgroups like unilateral vs bilateral disease, diabetes/ prediabetes vs non-diabetes, and chronic kidney disease (CKD) vs no significant CKD. We also want to evaluate the treatment preferences (both surgical and medical) and follow-up data (for treatment outcomes / effectiveness if relevant records were available). Our main objective is to highlight the current state of PA presentation and management so that we can develop a pragmatic diagnostic approach to improve screening, case detection and empiric management of PA.
Multicentric cross-sectional review of blood transfusion, iron chelation therapy, T2 * MRI, and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation practices in thalassemia major patients in North India
Authors: Vijayaran Mona , Seth Tulika , P Ganga Kartik , Ojha Vineeta , Pratap Singh Surya , Kumar Sanjeev
Published: February 2024

Purpose: India has a huge burden of β thalassemia patients with an estimated 100,000 patients. Of the 10,000 to 12,000 thalassaemic babies born each year in India, very few are adequately managed even in urban areas. Aim of the study is to conduct a cross-sectional audit of Thalassemia Major patients from seven centres in North India and collecting information about blood transfusion, iron chelation, T2* MRI, and HSCT practices. Methods: A total of 129 Thalassemia Major patients above 9 years of age from seven centres in North India were included. The study was conducted on 4/5/2019 and 5/5/2019 as part of a study (Fast MR study) conducted in the Cardiac-Radiology Department of AIIMS, Delhi. There were patients from 5 government hospitals (GH-113 patients) and from 2 private hospitals (PH). A pre-set questionnaire was filled. Results: None of the patients at any of the centres had pre-transfusion haemoglobin between 9.5-10.5g/dl. To 15% of the patients, leukodepletion in any form was not available. Free chelation therapy was available to 74 (57.4%). Only GH5 had availability of T2 * MRI scan at their centre HSCT services are available at GH5 & PH1. A total of 57 (44.2 %) were not counselled regarding HSCT. Out of the 48.8 % who were counselled for HSCT, 73.5% HLA matching could not be done. Conclusion: Developing an integrated closed referral system among centres and strict implementation of subsidized rates for tests is crucial to overcome disparities in Thalassemia patient care.
POSTCOVID-19 WAR era, remarkable accelerated hemato-immunologic processes affecting patients disease progression toward excess mortality
Authors: Alamdary Badlou Bahram
Published: February 2024

Background: The speed of the COVID-19 pandemic, and its potential threat to society, achieved through strange global collaborations and innovation between clinical specialties, different elite research organizations, academic institutions, and governments, recently. Cancer clinical trials have developed into a diverse and sophisticated array of designs suited to differing purposes especially focused on excess accelerated mortality rates between patients. Understanding the mechanism of bidirectional interaction between different angles of the death triangle is a lifesaving novel idea that I conceived from 2018. On one hand, platelet dysfunction after certain pharmaco-toxicological approaches in diabetes, and cancer patients; and on the other hand intervention of different COVID-19 variants, mutating each month, caused (hypothetically) remarkable acceleration of introduced angels of death triangle machinery. A considerable concern is modification of medical sciences using AI-related data processing and manipulations into substantial changes of background information presentation. Discussion: Different study groups describe how different microorganisms might be involved in accelerated mortality and morbidity rate among diabetes and cancer patients, in this postcovid-19 era. There are different theories about cancerogenic processes and associated accelerating factors. Simultaneously, restrictions by certain main Policymakers made mission impossible to tackle excess accelerated increase in mortality and morbidity rates, between2021-2024. How death receptors become activated and could accelerate harmful processes is not completely elucidated yet. Based on recent studies diabetic and cancerogenic processes can initiate susceptibility to getting infected, however. Lack of a golden standard protocol to prevent blood transfusion-based infection and Transplantation-based transfections, also brought certain (re-)actions of Basic Scientists entirely in a cloudy atmosphere, where more questions than answers appeared to need being answered from 2019. In this paper is tried to highlight more about consequent (re-)action and (ab)using diagnostics that can support using a certain type of therapeutics, which they might cause excess accelerated mortality rates, in these cloudy uncertain post-Covid-19 era.
A Critical Review of Factors and Challenges Influencing Non-Medical Prescribers in Primary and Urgent Treatment Care Facilities in England
Authors:   Advanced Clinical Practitioner, Kingswood Medical Centre, Basildon-Essex, UK, Thampi Mithun , Mathew Biju ,   Faculty of Health Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, UK
Published: February 2024

Background: Non-medical prescribing in England has empowered allied health professionals such as nurses, paramedics, and pharmacists working in acute and primary care settings to prescribe within their competency area in suitable work settings. The opportunities for non-medical staff to prescribe in respective clinical areas of expertise have increased substantially and continue to do so. Prescribing is now an integral part of advanced clinical practice, which is not limited to just nurses but has expanded to other allied health professionals. Purpose: To analyse the factors and challenges influencing prescribing for non-medical prescribers, during consultations with patients in primary and urgent treatment centre facilities Methods: This study employed a critical systematic review of relevant articles chosen from electronic databases including CINAHL, Medline, Cochrane library, and Scopus. Keywords were used to formulate a search pattern using Boolean operators and suitable qualitative studies relevant to the inclusion criteria were selected. Results: Thematic analysis of the articles concluded that there were a lot of sub-themes including a lack of protocols to support decision-making, peer support, and difficult patients which were interdependent posing as a potential barrier or acting as a facilitator in certain consultations Conclusion: The findings have provided adequate reassurance that non-medical prescribers were aware of the facilitators and barriers to non-medical prescribing. Organizational support and continued professional development are key components of the barriers and enablers for non- medical prescribers working in urgent and primary care settings.
Introduced plant species in the urban environment of the temperate-continental climate zone under conditions of global warming
Authors: Nuzhyna N. V. , Ivanova I. Y. , Gaidarzhy M. M.
Published: February 2024

Global climate change stimulates migration, which increases the number of introduced plant species, as well as those with a status of rarity, so the aim of the study was to identify highly promising plants of rare and decorative species in Ukraine to overcome the negative impact of the "urban heat island". We selected 40 species of plants native to temperate and continental climates for the study: 24 species are not commonly cultivated in the Polissya and Forest-Steppe regions of Ukraine and 16 species are widespread in this area. To select plants that are effective in reducing the negative effects of the urban heat island, we determined the relative decrease in ambient temperature near the crown of plants using an Elitech RC-4 thermometer and diagnosed the photosynthetic apparatus using a Floratest fluorometer. The analysis was based on the chlorophyll fluorescence induction curve. Among the rare species, the following species proved to be the best in terms of stress resistance, photosynthetic apparatus efficiency and temperature reduction near the crown: Acer mandshuricum, Aesculus pavia, Broussonetia papirifera, Catalpa bignonioides, Corylus colurna, Fagus orientalis, Fagus sylvatica, Prunus padus, Tetradium daniellii, the planting of which will reduce the negative effects of the "urban heat island". In addition, species that are not commonly cultivated in the continental climate zone have proven to be very promising for urban greening in this climate zone: Acer pseudoplatanus, Acer velutinum, Corylus maxima 'Atropurpurea', Fagus sylvatica 'Atropurpurea', Parrotia persica, Phelodendron amurense, Platanus × hispanica, Prunus dulcis, Pterocarya pterocarpa and Tilia platyphyllos. The use of rare species in urban landscaping will also help to preserve biodiversity according to the "Global Biodiversity Strategy".
The influence of chemicals on the development and viability of Trichuris vulpis nematode eggs isolated from infested dogs
Authors: Yevstafieva V. , Dolhin O. , Melnychuk V. , Dedukhno A. , Pishchalenko M. , Krasota O.
Published: February 2024

Preventive measures against invasive diseases should be carried out taking into account the peculiarities of the life cycle of helminths. This is especially relevant for geohelmintiases, where the infection is mainly transmitted via environmental objects contaminated with the pathogen at the exogenous stages of the parasite’s development. It has been proven that among the causative agents of nematodoses of the gastrointestinal tract of animals, the eggs of geohelminths of the genus Trichuris are the most resistant to the action of disinfectants. The aim of the research was to establish in laboratory conditions the ovicidal effect of chemicals on the development and viability of Trichuris vulpis nematode eggs isolated from infested dogs. Two disinfectants were tested in vitro, Arquades-plus (dialkyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, dodecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, tetrasodium salt) and Brovadez-plus (alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride, dodecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride). Arquades-plus disinfectant showed a high level of ovicidal efficiency (94.0%) only at the maximum concentration and exposure (2.0%, 60 min), and 4.7% of nematode eggs in the test culture remained viable. Brovadez-plus disinfectant was less effective and did not provide a high level of ovicidal efficiency against Trichuris eggs in the studied concentrations and exposures. Satisfactory and unsatisfactory levels of its ovicidal effect (63.1–77.1% and 2.5–58.9%) were established when using the product in concentrations of 2.0% and 0.5–1.5%, respectively, for exposures of 10–60 min. The disinfestation activity of the preparations was characterized by metric changes in experimental test cultures compared to the control test culture. Under the influence of Arquades-plus at all concentrations, the length of the eggs was greater (by 0.4–2.0%), and the width was smaller (by 0.7–4.9%). Under the influence of Brovadez-plus in concentrations of 1.0–2.0%, the length of the eggs was greater (by 0.5–0.9%), the width was smaller (by 0.3–4.1%). The results of the conducted studies allow us to recommend the Arquades-plus disinfectant in a 2.0% concentration (exposure of 60 minutes) for effective control and prevention of infection of dogs with the causative agent of trichurosis.
Use of sargassum and other organic substitutes in the construction industry. A review
Authors: Cruz Julio , García-Uitz Karla
Published: February 2024

Currently, sargassum, due to the large quantities that have arrived on the coasts of Mexico and other parts of the world, has become an environmental, economic and health problem, which makes its study important to provide value. Sargassum has been used for the production of biofuels and bioremediation, however, to the large amount of this organic material, the construction industry has used it in its raw state as a cementitious substitute. The objective of this article is to know the potential use of sargassum ash as a cementitious substitute, comparing it with various organic biomasses that have been used for the same purpose, for which a bibliographic review of organic biomasses, their characteristics, substitution percentages has been carried out. and its application. The above will provide knowledge of the properties that ash must contain for its application either in mortars or pastes that improve long-term durability, to advance sustainable construction.
Motor Transport in the Field of Material and Technical Support of Weapons Production in the 1910-1920s (on the Example of the Tula Arms Plant)
Authors: Maria Krapiventseva
Published: February 2024

The use of cars at arms industry enterprises in the initial period of their spread in Russia was a factor contributing to the fulfillment of government orders, as a result of which this issue deserves a separate study. The purpose of this article is to determine the role of the vehicle fleet in the transport infrastructure of the Tula Arms Plant in the first quarter of the twentieth century. This company was founded in 1712, and by the beginning of the 20th century, it was the recognized leader among the country's arms factories in the production of small arms. The author sets the following tasks: to characterize the transport system of the enterprise during the period under review, to trace the process of the factory vehicle fleet formation, and to analyze the factors that influenced the efficiency of its functioning. Materials from the State Institution “State Archive of the Tula Region” were used to prepare this study. The effectiveness of the introduction of mechanical transport was assessed using historicaldescriptive, historical-systemic, and quantitative analysis methods. Thanks to the introduction of previously unused documents into scientific circulation, it was possible for the first time to recreate a complete picture of the use of road transport in the military industry in the 1910- 20s on the example of the Tula Arms Plant. The article shows the main problems that the plant management faced in the process of organizing the garage. Attention is paid to the personnel who stood at the origins of the machine operation . It was noted that the appearance of the factory vehicle fleet was a significant event not only for the plant but also for the city of Tula. The author has established that the introduction of motor transport was a qualitatively new stage in the development of TAP infrastructure, which contributed to the formation of its modern appearance. However, a number of objective organizational, technical, material reasons and the general level of the country’s transport network development in the 20s of the 20th century did not allow the garage to become a leading link in meeting the transport needs of the plant.
The Affective Corporeality and Trauma in the Theories of Brian Massumi, Sigmund Freud, and CoBrA Group
Authors: Gleb Kolomiets , Ksenia Bezgina
Published: February 2024

The article aims to interpret sensibility without necessarily referring to individual subjectivity. To this end, the definition of affect suggested by Brian Massumi as well as his division between affect and emotion are considered. They were proposed in the framework of an interdisciplinary approach – the theory of affect. Massumi argues that affect encompasses a contradictory dimension of corporality, which, unlike emotion and the bodily processes associated with it, is irreducible to the binary logic of language. Further development of Massumi's ideas involves the interpretation of animal behavior, in particular in situations associated with the experience of fear and horror. There Massumi finds not only the action of rigid adaptive mechanisms, but also a creative, spontaneous aspect that further emphasizes the contradictory nature of corporality. This reading of the body allows us to take a fresh look at Freudian psychoanalysis and place some of its aspects in the context of the collective, understood as a complex network of interactions between living and non-living bodies. Considering fright as an element of the genesis of neurosis, Freud shows the importance of this feeling not so much for conscious perception, but for the formation of memory that does not always realize itself in images accessible to consciousness. The application of the theory of affect to this model makes it possible to show that these processes can be interpreted not in terms of mechanical repetition, but in terms of living, developing production and reproduction that, thanks to psychoanalysis, can change its modality. Affect also turns out to be a suitable tool for interpreting the post-war art of the 20th century, particularly the works of the CoBrA group, that demonstrates a peculiar reading of horror against the backdrop of military trauma. The concept of affect as a source of creativity echoes the explorations of CoBrA artists and their belief that every being needs a productive expression of vitality.
Non-Human Uncanny in Body Horror Movies
Authors: Yana Tsyrlina
Published: February 2024

The article presents an attempt to theorize the modes of body transformation in body horror films, as well as their impact on the viewer's body experiences and, in a more complex perspective, on the understanding and conceptualization of the body. In doing so, the author includes the concepts of “horror body” and “non-human” in her research, considering new body horror films in a post-human and non-human perspective. In addition, the author turns to the concept of the “new flesh” by David Cronenberg to identify technological or specific mutations in body horror films. According to the author, body horror films have an impact on the viewers' body, forcing them to experience their body as deformed, going beyond its own boundaries. Therefore, the horror of the transformed body in these films is marked by a “shock identity”. The power of horror allows transcending the boundaries of human entity and, in this sense, horror unsettles the belief that this world is only created for human beings and their bodies. In the article, the author applies the concepts of “abjection” by Julia Kristeva, “grotesque body” by Barbara Creed and “unhuman” by Dylan Trigg to show that the holistic state of the human body is becoming more problematic, and the dominance and exclusivity of man is being questioned. The author makes the assumption that body horror films allow us to enter the context of a new posthuman era in which people and non-people form the “new flesh” (technological or specific). Thus, body horror visualizes the becoming of a new body connected to a new recombined or recomposed human flesh which may have to come in the future.