bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hyperparameter Tuning on Machine Learning-Based Landslide Susceptibility Mapping (Case study: Palu City and Its Surrounding areas)
Authors: Sukristiyanti Sukristiyanti , Pamela Pamela , Putra Moch Hilmi Zaenal , Arifianti Yukni , Rozie Andri Fachrur , Lestiana Hilda , Susantoro Tri Muji , Sumaryono Sumaryono , Kristiawan Yohandi , Putra Iqbal Eras
Published: February 2025

Landslide susceptibility mapping (LSM) produces a zonation map of landslide susceptibility levels, representing the future probability of landslides. It is necessary to give a guideline regarding spatial planning. A machine learning method was used, namely a random forest (RF) algorithm to map landslide susceptibility in Python. The case study is Palu City and its surrounding areas, which were attacked by a big earthquake on September 28th, 2018. Some earlier LSM studies did not discuss hyperparameter tuning, and several others did not mention the training accuracy. Therefore, this study is to find out whether the fast model without hyperparameter tuning and frequently overfitting, can well produce landslide susceptibility maps. The research questions were addressed by comparing two landslide susceptibility maps built with and without hyperparameter tuning using receiver operating characteristics (ROC) and landslide density (LD) analyses. This study shows that the area under the curve (AUC) of the landslide susceptibility map from the fast RF model without hyperparameter tuning is as high as the AUC from the tuned model map. It also happened in both landslide density (LD) maps, and there is no anomaly in the fast model map. Nevertheless, there are strange appearances in the fast model map. Therefore, hyperparameter tuning to obtain the optimal model with no overfitting is mandatory to predict landslide susceptibility spatially.
The Relationship of obstructive sleep apnea with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in women suffered coronary heart disease and arterial hypertension
Authors: Tsareva V.M. , Osipova M.S. , Sundukova K.A. , Tsarev S.A.
Published: February 2025

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) promotes the development of cardiovascular diseases. Studying the relationship between sleep apnea and atrial fibrillation (AF) is relevant. Objective. To analyze the obstructive sleep apnea relation to paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in post-menopausal women with ischemic heart disease and hypertension. Materials and Methods. We examined 123 post-menopausal women with chronic ischemic heart disease and stage II-III, grade 1—2 hypertension with high or very high risk. Group I included 88 patients with paroxysmal AF, Group II — 35 patients without paroxysmal AF. The study was conducted at Smolensk Regional Clinical Hospital in 2021—2022 using the SomnoCheck micro device (Weinmann, Germany) for respiratory monitoring. Normal apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) is <5 events per hour. Mild OSA severity corresponds to an AHI of at least five events per hour but fewer than 15; an AHI of at least 30 events per hour indicates severe OSA. The patients were questioned using the NoSAS scale. A score of ≥8 indicated a high probability of OSA. Results. OSA was detected in 57.9% of women in Group I, by 20.8% more often than in Group II (χ²=4.35; p=0.038). AHI ≥15 events per hour was reported in 26.1% of patients in Group I, by 17.5% more often than in Group II (p<0.05 by two-tailed Fisher test). In Group I, 91.3% of women scored ≥8 on the NoSAS scale; the average score was 11 (9; 15) points. Patients with AF had statistically significantly higher AHI values (16.2 events/h), desaturation index (10.6 events/h), and lower min SpO2 (82.3%) compared to women without arrhythmia (9.1 events/h, 5.4 events/h, and 86.9%, respectively). Conclusion. In the study, 91.3% of patients with ischemic heart disease, hypertension, and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation had a high probability of having sleep apnea, according to the NoSAS scale. Obstructive sleep apnea was associated with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in post-menopausal women with ischemic heart disease and hypertension (3.77 times higher with an apnea-hypopnea index of ≥15 events per hour).
Justification and development of regional indices determining the Russian Federation population health in 2005—2022
Authors: Maksimov S.A. , Shalnova S.A. , Drapkina O.M.
Published: February 2025

The dependence of public health on socio-economic, industrial, and environmental parameters of the living environment determines the need to develop regional indexes that account for the diversity of living conditions of the population of Russia. Objective. To develop and evaluate the quality of Russian Federation’s public health regional indexes for 2005—2022 for scientific and practical research in healthcare. Materials and Methods. The research material were the publicly available statistical data from the Federal State Statistics Service on 63 characteristics of regions of the Russian Federation in 2005—2022. Regional indexes were developed using principal component analysis with a sequential three-stage formation of regional indexes. The quality of developed indexes was evaluated using Kaiser—Meyer—Olkin criterion, Bartlett’s criterion of sphericity, and Tucker’s congruence coefficient. Results. Annual regional indexes developed for each Russian region for 2005—2022 included Economic (includes 7 characteristics), Demographic (7 characteristics), Industrial (5 characteristics), and Social (8 characteristics) indexes. The developed indexes are characterized by high quality. The article presents quantitative values of the indexes and distribution of regions into index quintiles. Conclusion. The developed indexes of regions of the Russian Federation for 2005—2022 characterize the living conditions of the population. The authors proposed possible ways of using these indices in scientific and practical healthcare activities.
Dynamics of arterial stiffness indicators during antihypertensive therapy
Authors: Nosov A.E. , Ustinova O.Yu.
Published: February 2025

Many studies demonstrate the role of increased arterial stiffness in predicting cardiovascular events. Objective. To study the connection of cardio-ankle vascular index and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity with each other and with blood pressure level dynamics in patients with arterial hypertension against the background of antihypertensive therapy. Materials and Methods. The study involved 32 patients (20 men and 12 women). Sphygmomanometry was performed using VaSera 1500N (Fukuda Denshi Co., Ltd., Japan) and BPLab Angio (Petr Telegin LLC, Russia) sphygmomanometers. The cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI), carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV), and peripheral and central arterial blood pressure (ABP) parameters were registered. Sphygmography was performed twice with an interval of 6±1.7 days after the prescription of antihypertensive therapy. Results. The therapy resulted in reduced ABP. The CAVI value has not changed (p=0.566). The cfPWV decreased from 8.8 (8.1; 10.0) to 8.4 (7.7; 9.7) m/s (p=0.012). Regression models demonstrated no connection between CAVI and ABP changes but revealed highly significant connections between the cfPWV and ABP changes. Calculated cfPWV reduction was 0.55 m/s with a decrease in aortic mean arterial pressure (MAP) by 10 mm Hg and 0.65 m/s with a decrease in brachial artery MAP by 10 mm Hg. Linear regression equations for the relationship between CAVI and cfPWV were calculated. The evaluation of the dynamics of arterial stiffness in a short time interval does not allow one to judge the long-term effects of therapy. Conclusion. The therapy reduces the carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity while the cardio-ankle vascular index remains unchanged. We established a connection between the brachial artery and aortic mean arterial pressure reduction and the carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity reduction. The carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity reduced to 0.55 m/s with a decrease in aortic MAP by 10 mm Hg and 0.65 m/s with a decrease in brachial artery MAP by 10 mm Hg.
Early express diagnosis of the head and neck skin tumors in raman scattering light microspectroscopy
Authors: Timurzieva A.B. , Popadyuk V.I. , Vertieva E.Yu. , Fedina M.S. , Omarova A.R. , Rimskaya E.N. , Shelygina S.N. , Saraeva I.N.
Published: February 2025

Early noninvasive diagnosis of tumors is one of the most important strategic directions for developing practical health care. Skin neoplasms are characterized by a high prevalence and require close attention from doctors and scientists to the methods of their diagnosis. Late treatment of patients with these conditions leads to a decrease in their quality of life, more invasive interventions, a significant economic burden, and other adverse consequences. Therefore, optical diagnostic methods that allow noninvasive, quick, and accurate determining of the type of tumor are of interest. Objective. To study the possibilities of using confocal Raman microspectroscopy and fluorescence with an excitation radiation wavelength of 785 nm for the differential diagnosis of head and neck skin neoplasms. Materials and methods. The Confotec MR520 Raman microscope, operating at an excitation radiation wavelength of 785 nm, was used during the study. Spectra were recorded from the surface of tissue fragments in benign neoplasms (dermal nevi), basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma of the skin, and intact head and neck skin. The spectrometric pattern was correlated with the results of the histological examination. Results. We obtained the spectral characteristics of tissues of intact skin and skin tumors (basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma of the skin of the head and neck, as well as dermal nevi). The study demonstrated the possibility of using confocal Raman microspectroscopy to diagnose and determine resection boundaries in head and neck skin neoplasms. Conclusion. The obtained results indicate the possibility of considering confocal Raman microspectroscopy as an auxiliary method of early rapid identification of skin neoplasms. In the future, this method can be informative in indicating the tumor process in skin cancers and in determining the boundaries of tumor resection.
An Exploration of Burn Survivors' Experiences of Pressure Garment Therapy at a tertiary hospital in South Africa
Authors: Pillay Rogini , Visagie Surona , Mji Gubela
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Pressure garment therapy is used to treat hypertrophic scars, but adherence to this intervention presents challenges. The aim of the paper was to explore the pressure garment therapy experiences of adult burn survivors.Methods: The experiences of eight purposively sampled participants were explored in a qualitative, phenomenological study. Data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis was conducted.Results: Participants described an improvement in the scars, but struggled with adherence to pressure garment therapy. The emotional impact of the burn injury, physical symptoms, the effort of caring for the garments and aesthetic factors created barriers to adherence. Support, inner strength, knowledge, and seeing an improvement facilitated adherence.Conclusion: The findings of the study show that participants perceived pressure garment therapy as beneficial, but several complex factors impacted adherence. A bigger choice in material colours, a person-centred approach to burn management, digital photos of scars to catalogue improvement and the establishment of a counselling network are recommended.
Keywords: Burns, hypertrophic scars, pressure garment therapy, adherence.
Occupation Based Hand Therapy in the South African context: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: De Klerk Susan , Badenhorst Elretha , Buttle Amy , Mohammed Fairuz , Oberon Jeanette
Published: February 2025

Occupation-based hand therapy (OBHT) is an approach to practice that integrates multiple frames of reference, while remaining rooted in an occupational therapy perspective. There are a number of benefits and challenges that have been recognised in hand therapy settings. The use of an occupation-based approach in the field of hand therapy is of interest to all occupational therapists practising in this field. This commentary explores the challenges and opportunities of OBHT as an approach in the assessment and treatment of clients with hand conditions in the South African context. The authors describe OBHT, explore the barriers in practice and propose guidelines for such an approach in our context. Recommendations are made to enhance the understanding practice of an OBHT approach in everyday hand therapy practice within South Africa.
Key words: Occupation-Based Hand Therapy, Client Centred practice
Stroke Management and Rehabilitation in a Western Cape Province setting
Authors: Cawood Judy , Visagie Surona
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Long-term disability caused by stroke can be decreased through comprehensive rehabilitation.Aim: This article aims to describe the functional outcomes achieved by stroke survivors in an urban Western Cape Province setting to add to the information on stroke management.Methods: A descriptive mixed methods study was done. Proportional, stratified random sampling was used to select 53 participants from a population of 267. Quantitative data were collected with the Stroke Impact Scale Version 3.0 and the Modified Barthel Index, and analysed with the Mann-Whitney test. A p value of < 0.05 was deemed statistically significant. Five of the 53 participants were purposively sampled for the qualitative phase of the study. Qualitative data were analysed according to predetermined themes.Results: Seventy-five per cent of participants were managed in a general medical ward. Four were admitted to a specialised inpatient rehabilitation centre. Eighty-three per cent received physiotherapy, 62% received occupational therapy and 57% received both physio and occupational therapy. Fifty-one per cent experienced communication difficulties, but only 18% received speech therapy.Conclusion and recommendations: Sufficient inpatient therapy (preferably in a stroke unit /ward) and family education /training should be received before discharge. Occupational therapy, speech therapy, physiotherapy as well as psychological, social work, vision screening and dietetic services should be expanded at both hospital and community level.
Key words: Stroke, rehabilitation, occupational therapy
A qualitative exploration of the characteristics and practices of interdisciplinary collaboration
Authors: West Maria , Boshoff Kobie , Stewart Hugh
Published: February 2025

The Children's Centres in South Australia are examples of settings requiring the effective collaboration of disciplines from diversebackgrounds, such as staff from education, health and welfare. Working together across different professional groups is complexand challenging. Existing literature describing collaboration in early childhood settings focuses on exploring the concept from a singleprofessional perspective, with limited exploration from multiple professional perspectives. The aim of this study was to describe thecharacteristics and practices of collaboration in well-established Children's Centre teams from multiple professional perspectives. It isanticipated that this description can result in strategies for other teams in similar interdisciplinary settings.A systematic review was conducted summarising the literature on the characteristics and practices of collaboration in Children'sCentres, followed by a descriptive qualitative study. Team members from two centres participated in focus groups, thematic analysiswas undertaken and findings of both phases were integrated.Characteristics and practices that support constructive teamwork were identified, with the central theme of leadership and the interrelatedsub-themes including: development of team cohesiveness; supportive team processes, as well as working within and betweengovernment departments. The study contributes to the understanding of the complexity and inter-relatedness of the characteristics andprocesses involved in collaboration, highlighting the importance of leaders in supporting the collaboration of disciplines from differentprofessional backgrounds.Key words: collaboration, teamwork, Children's Centres, qualitative, early childhoodÂ
Novel Optimized Image Enhancement and Deep Learning Based Crack Detection Algorithm in Non-Destructive Testing
Authors:   Research Scholar, KPGU & CEO, AI and Imaging, Innovate2Automate technologies Pvt Ltd, India, Khemani Lucky Pratap , Yadav Ravindra Kumar , Doshi Twinkle V
Published: February 2025

Objectives: The main objectives are to enhance image clarity for crack detection in steel pipes using a combination of denoising techniques, adaptive contrast enhancement, and YOLOv10-based detection with fine-tuned parameters in NDT. Industries such as oil and gas and chemical processing heavily rely on these techniques to ensure the integrity of their pipelines. Methods: The process involves reducing noise to improve image quality, applying CLAHE for localized contrast enhancement, and leveraging YOLOv10's deep learning capabilities for crack detection. Key parameters are adjusted to maximize the model's precision, recall, and confidence scores. Findings: The method improves the accuracy of crack detection in NDT scenarios considerably. Noise reduction and CLAHE enhance the visibility of defects while preserving critical information in images. Fine-tuning the parameters of YOLOv10 results in performance that is superior to previous methods, with a confidence rate of over 92% and precision of over 99% for detecting cracks under various conditions. This approach shows robustness against noise and illumination changes, which decreases detection errors and increases reliability in industrial inspections. Overall, it provides a robust and efficient method for accurate defect identification. Novelty: This work integrates an optimized denoising algorithm, optimized CLAHE algorithm, and YOLOv10 with customized optimal parameter tuning to achieve exceptional crack detection accuracy and efficiency in the context of NDT. The creation of a real-world augmented dataset is itself a significant achievement in addressing real-world problems. Achieves high performance training in just 50 epoch, making it specially designed for real-time business applications where we experience different drastic change in data capture conditions. Also Inference model with preprocessing performance is 40-50 fps with T4 GPU, which can be further enhanced by using the latest next versions of GPU.

Keywords: Deep Learning, CLAHE, YOLOv10, Image Denoising, Crack Detection, Non-Destructive Testing
Human Rights in Urban Space. A Critical Perspective
Authors: Giolo Orsetta
Published: February 2025

This essay explores the relationship between law and the city, with a specific focus on the reformulation of rights within the urban space, reviewing some classifications of citizenship and democracy defined in the light of their state dimension in order to assess how such theorizations can also be applied to the urban dimension. To this end, it will be necessary preliminarily to investigate the transformations that the public space (physical and symbolic) – that is, the reference framework for the configuration of rights and subjectivities – is undergoing in an urban context.
Facilitative mediation as a sociocultural practice
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Pokotylo Elina
Published: February 2025

Background. The current trend in conflict resolution emphasizes non-violent, less traumatic, and non-repressive communication. This approach focuses on halting destructive behaviours and fostering mutually beneficial solutions, with conflict resolution methods seen as a conscious effort shaped by value-based considerations. This shift aligns with the trend towards the 'democratisation' of fairness and recognition of individual autonomy in decision-making, as seen in the rise of mediation as an alternative dispute resolution method. This article examines the key characteristics of facilitative mediation as a specific practice of resource management at its current stage of development, drawing on the insights of mediators practising in the United Kingdom. A holistic approach is proposed, which considers the simultaneous functioning of role, emotional, temporal, and spatial structures within the practice.

Methods. Interdisciplinary approach, comparative analysis, induction, deduction, generalisation, analysis, synthesis, and the descriptive method.

Results. The dialogue in mediation is examined at individual, interpersonal, and intergroup levels. The functioning of attitudes, actions, positions, and interests in mediation process is explored. The study examines perspective-taking, social roles, informality, and the emotional structure of mediation, including emotional rules.

Conclusions. Offline mediation is a unique form of mediation, as third party mediates the parties from each other with them co-present. Each of the studied structures has a specific dynamic pattern. Dialogue patterns are consistent across all communication levels. Mediation creates its own social reality with specific emotional rules. Emotions are regulated by temporal and spatial factors.
Time, fate and free will in the context of quantum theory
Authors:   National Academy of Management, Kyiv, Ukraine, Polyanska Viktoriya
Published: February 2025

Background. The author tries to identify the connection between the phenomena of quantum physics and the philosophical concepts of "fate", "free will" and "time". By examining how the probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics challenges classical deterministic views, and bridging the gap between modern physics and age-old philosophical debates, the author seeks to offer a nuanced understanding of these fundamental concepts

Methods. The investigation employs a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating scientific theories and discoveries alongside religious and philosophical perspectives. Various viewpoints and schools of thought are considered, spanning both Western scientific frameworks and Eastern philosophical traditions, to provide a comprehensive analysis of the topic.

Results. The positions of total determinism and indeterminism are compared, highlighting their respective strengths and limitations. It delves into the parallels between Buddhist philosophy and contemporary quantum theory, suggesting that both share common ground in their understanding of reality. Additionally, the concept of creationism is examined within the context of quantum mechanics.

Conclusions. The exploration reveals that the concepts of fate and free will, and their relationship with time, are deeply intertwined with the existence of a hidden quantum reality. This hidden reality, characterized by the inherent uncertainties and probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics, challenges the deterministic worldview upheld by classical physics. The investigation highlights that the interconnectedness of fate and free will with our understanding of time is profoundly influenced by the quantum realm, which introduces complexities such as the "measurement problem." As a result, the deterministic predictability of classical physics is replaced by a framework where probabilities and potentialities govern the behavior of particles. The study concludes that acknowledging the existence of this hidden quantum reality necessitates a re-evaluation of traditional notions of fate, free will, and time, suggesting that these concepts are more fluid and interconnected than previously thought. By bridging the gap between quantum theory and philosophical inquiry, the exploration offers new insights into the nature of reality and human agency, ultimately contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the universe and our place within it.
"Exploring Aesthetic Practices Conference". Сonference review, University of Jyväskylä, Finland, 23–25.10.2025
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Butsykina Yevheniia
Published: February 2025

Overview of the conference "Exploring Aesthetic Practices", which took place from October 23 to 25, 2024 at the Department of Art Education, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Jyväskylä University of Applied Sciences.
Review of the Bucharest conference "War in Ukraine. What does the future of Central and Eastern Europe look like?"
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Stepanenko Anastasiia
Published: February 2025

This review reflects on the "War in Ukraine: What Does the Future of Central and Eastern Europe Look Like?" conference held in Bucharest in November 2024. Key themes included political shifts in Central and Eastern Europe, the resilience of democratic institutions, the effects of sanctions on Russia, energy security in Europe, and the cultural impact on collective memory and displaced communities. The conference facilitated robust academic discourse and fostered international connections, highlighting the growing interest in Ukrainian studies.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Fraud Detection Systems in Commercial Banks
Authors: Soni Viraj
Published: February 2025

Fraud detection in commercial banks is a critical concern due to the rising frequency and sophistication of fraudulent activities. Over the years, numerous fraud detection systems (FDS) have been implemented to mitigate the risks posed by these activities, which include cybercrime, identity theft, and financial fraud. This paper aims to evaluate the effectiveness of current fraud detection systems employed in commercial banks, with a focus on technological advancements and their integration into banking operations. The study discusses various fraud detection mechanisms, including machine learning, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technologies. It also addresses key performance indicators, challenges, limitations, and emerging trends in detection of fraud, offering insights into potential improvements and future research areas.
Digital Democracy in Russia as an Element of the Digital State
Authors: Dobrobaba M. B.
Published: February 2025

The paper examines digital democracy as one of the elements of the digital state. Digital democracy is defined as an evolutionary transformation of traditional democracy due to the digitalization of the political and legal space, a new way of political participation through which citizens can express political will using information and communication technologies. It has been established that digital democracy in the country is developing nonuniformly, due to the problem of digital inequality. Other problems of the implementation of digital democracy that require a solution include: the lack of procedures that would guarantee equality of opportunity when citizens submit appeals on socio-political issues in various forms (oral/written and in the form of an electronic document); the problem of identification and authentication of subjects entering into interaction in a digital environment; the problem of the lack of effective tools to popularize e-democracy mechanisms among the population; information security problem. It has been shown that digital democracy, in comparison with traditional democracy, is more functional, ensuring the mass participation of citizens in public power activities. The adoption of the concept of the development of digital democracy will have a positive impact on the formation and implementation of public policy in the development of digital democracy. It is stated that in the future, the development of digital democracy will be aimed at crowding out non-digital ways of citizens’ participation in the political life of the country. However, digital democracy should not completely replace classical democracy. It is necessary to provide the right of citizens to refuse to participate in «digital» relations and the opportunity to express their political will in the traditional way.
Social Rights: Constitutional and Legal Essence
Authors: Velieva D. S. , Presnyakov M. V.
Published: February 2025

Social rights have a number of specific features that distinguish them from general human and civil rights and freedoms. In particular, the paper highlights that these rights do not have a clearly established list of powers; they are largely determined by positive legislation, etc. These features make it necessary to raise the question of the possibility of their identification as constitutional rights. Most often, an individual enjoys sectoral social rights: the right to pension and social security, the right to medical care, etc. — as they are defined by positive legislation. However, according to the Constitution of the Russian Federation, all the rights that it provides are natural: they are inalienable, belong to everyone from birth, inherent to the nature of man, and are not granted by the State, etc. The authors attempt to substantiate the legal nature of constitutional social rights. They conclude that the constitutional right is directly expressed in the ability to challenge the model of its implementation proposed by the legislator from the standpoint of the content of this right. In the same case, when the model of ensuring this constitutional right used by the legislator does not fulfill such a function, a citizen can apply to the Constitutional Court of the Russian Federation with a request to find it as inconsistent with the Constitution of the Russian Federation.
Types of Digital Traces of Crimes in the Financial Market
Authors: Otogochev A. V.
Published: February 2025

The author has developed a forensic classification of the most relevant digital traces of crimes in the financial market, the establishment and seizure of which is of great importance in identifying and detecting the organizers of criminal schemes in the context of digital transformation. The author sets the task to analyze digital traces that appear in the process committing crimes in the financial market. It is taken into account that a number of criminal acts can be committed in the legal financial market with the involvement of financial organizations and their employees, as well as in the illegal financial market, which forms the shadow sector of illegal financial services, including the formation of financial pyramids. The result of the study is the conclusion that digital traces in the case of crimes involving licensed financial organizations and involving illegal entities of the financial market differ in their content, as well as in the degree of their preservation from destruction, which in some cases requires prompt measures to record and seize them. The author concluded that successful investigation of crimes in the financial market largely depends on the results of expert studies of digital traces of economic content and computer information, which require a range of forensic examinations.
Characteristics of Higher-Mode Ambient Noise Rayleigh Waves in Taiwan: Insights from Multicomponent Interferometry
Authors: Liao Chun-Fu , Chen Ying-Nien
Published: February 2025

This article reports on the characteristics of higher-mode Rayleigh waves retrieved from ambient noise collected by dense seismic networks in Taiwan. Through the multicomponent interferometry technique, we derived the empirical Green’s functions (EGFs) of Rayleigh waves. Both the fundamental mode and the first higher-mode Rayleigh waves were distinctly identified, and the effective energy of the EGFs falls within the frequency range of the short-period secondary microseism (SPSM, 0.2–0.5 Hz). To gain deeper insights into higher-mode Rayleigh waves, we conducted spatiotemporal analysis of the amplitude of the multicomponent cross-correlation functions, yielding the following key findings: (1) similar to the SPSM excitation, energy variations in both modes are closely correlated with shallow water environments, (2) higher-mode energy exhibits a strong correlation with underlying geological structures, with considerably stronger excitations detected in areas underlaid by soft sediments, and (3) temporal variations in the energy of both modes are strongly correlated with ocean wave height.
Lithospheric Structure of the Central Altyn Tagh Fault System Revealed by Teleseismic Travel-Time Tomography
Authors: Yao Shi , Xu Tao , Yang Tingwei , Wu Chenglong , Lin Jiyan , Hua Yujin , Zhu Dengda , Ye Lingling
Published: February 2025

The Altyn Tagh fault (ATF) system forms the northern margin of the Tibetan Plateau and plays a crucial role in the uplift and development of the Tibetan Plateau. It mediates the far-field effect of the collision between the Indian and the Eurasian plates. Because of limited constraints on the lithospheric velocity structure, the detailed deformation pattern of the central ATF system remains unclear. With a dense seismic array, 483 stations with an interval of ∼1 km, across the central ATF system (the Tarim–Altyn–Qaidam dense nodal array) in late 2021, we obtain 14,079 high-quality teleseismic P-wave relative travel-time residuals calculated with the multichannel cross-correlation method, and construct a P-wave velocity model beneath the central ATF system via the fast marching tomography (FMTOMO) method. Our results reveal distinct crustal structures in the Western Qaidam basin, Altyn Tagh range, and Eastern Tarim basin. The vertically low P-wave velocity anomaly below the ATF, extending down to 130 km, indicates that the ATF is deep fault in the lithospheric scale. The laterally expanded low P-wave velocity anomaly beneath the northwest Qaidam from surface to ∼60 km depth indicates the extrusion of Qaidam block, driven by the far-field effects of the Indo-Eurasian collision. The south-dipping significant low P-wave velocity anomaly beneath the southeast Tarim at ∼50 to 140 km depth indicates the underthrusting of the Tarim block, providing direct evidence of the clockwise rotation of the Tarim block.
Acute airway obstruction from a retropharyngeal hemorrhage
Authors:   Emergency Department, Landspitali - The National University Hospital of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland, Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland, Palomares Aaron
Published: February 2025

A case is reported of a man in his 70s that presented to the emergency department due to difficulty swallowing after a fall. He was found to have a large retropharyngeal hematoma, which led to complete airway obstruction about an hour after the injury. As oral endotracheal intubation was impossible due to the bleeding, an emergency cricothyrotomy was performed in an ambulance by an emergency medicine trainee. The patient was then transferred to Landspitali for further treatment, but was discharged home in good health 19 days later.

Retropharyngeal bleeding following trauma is rare. A pre-hospital cricothyrotomy has not previously been reported for this injury.
Flow Electrode Capacitive Deionization Using MXene Suspension Electrodes for
Energy Efficient Water Remediation
Authors: Mansoor Naqsh E.
Published: February 2025

The growing global demand for clean water, coupled with increasing concerns
around aquatic pollution, necessitate the development of high performing and
energy-efficient technologies for wastewater remediation. Capacitive
Deionization (CDI) has emerged as a promising electrochemical method for
desalination and removal of contaminants from various water sources. Despite its
potential, CDI faces a significant bottleneck concerning the selection and
optimization of suitable electrode materials. The choice of electrode materials
critically influences the performance and efficiency of the CDI system, with the
quest for an ideal material remaining a challenging and ongoing research
endeavor. This dissertation explores potential of using MXene materials as CDI
electrodes to address the challenges associated with the commercialization of
the technology.

The research begins with an overview of the fundamental principles of CDI and the
crucial role of electrodes in the process. Experimental investigations are
conducted using lab-scale flow electrode CDI prototype with activated carbon
(AC) and Ti3C2 MXene as electrodes in a mono-ionic
simulated wastewater system. Performance metrics, such as ion adsorption
capacity, energy efficiency, regeneration efficiency, and cyclic stability, are
quantitatively assessed to facilitate a direct comparison between the two
materials.

The research begins with an overview of the fundamental principles of CDI and the
crucial role of electrodes in the process. Experimental investigations are
conducted using lab-scale flow electrode CDI prototype with activated carbon
(AC) and Ti3C2 MXene as electrodes in a mono-ionic
simulated wastewater system. Performance metrics, such as ion adsorption
capacity, energy efficiency, regeneration efficiency, and cyclic stability, are
quantitatively assessed to facilitate a direct comparison between the two
materials. solutions are carefully formulated to mimic real-world water
conditions, incorporating a diverse range of cations and anions at high
concentrations.

The outcomes of this research contribute to advancing the understanding of MXene
electrode selectivity in multi-ion capacitive deionization. The findings from
this dissertation can serve as a foundation for future research endeavors and
guide the development of tailored CDI systems for diverse water treatment
applications.
Development of Recyclable Materials for Industry Using Non-Petroleum
Feedstocks
Authors: Miller-Cassman Terra M.
Published: February 2025

Plastics have been an essential material for over 80 years, yet we have been
unable to manage the accumulation of plastic waste. The available solutions for
recycling or replacing plastics are complex and costly, and thus have not kept
pace with the increasing quantity of plastic waste. This dissertation describes
a comprehensive, materials design approach to solving the current and future
challenges of plastic waste. Recycled and recyclable materials are developed
using commercial feedstocks to reduce barriers for industry adoption. In one
approach, unsorted municipal solid waste is compressed at a low temperature and
pressure to form rigid composite boards with properties similar to
particleboard. In another approach, a copolymer with ethyl cyanoacrylate (i.e.,
Super Glue) is used as a sacrificial tie layer to facilitate the separation and
recycling of poly(ethylene terephthalate) in commercial label release liners.
Finally, composite materials, composed primarily of low molecular weight sugars,
are prepared as a degradable and recyclable alternative to rigid, persistent
plastics for short-term-use applications. Processing of the materials, in each
of these systems, uses techniques that are compatible with existing
infrastructure. Thus, the materials are designed to be scalable and
low-cost.
Development and Implementation of a GPS-Agnostic Drone Localization
System
Authors: Peterson Alex
Published: February 2025

This research develops a GPS-denied state estimation system to localize and
orient a drone for touch-based installations on power line towers and cables. As
opposed to environments like underground tunnels or building interiors, our
system effectively identifies and utilizes sparse landmarks such as towers,
cables, and ground features. Our approach utilizes Simultaneous Localization and
Mapping (SLAM) to create and reference three-dimensional maps in real time.
Specifically, we employ Georgia Tech Smoothing and Mapping (GTSAM), proposed by
Georgia Tech's BORG Lab, a factor graph-based data structure consisting of
measurement factors and unknown pose variables that we are implementing for
solving the problem of SLAM. A strong feature of GTSAM is that several custom
observation factors can be implemented with diverse sensor inputs allowing for
the optimization problem to be better defined. Using an NVIDIA Jetson as the
processor, we equipped a TurtleBot with six cameras and an Inertial Measurement
Unit (IMU) to successfully implement and validate the GTSAM-based SLAM in a lab
environment. While this technique can utilize cameras and distance sensors for
robust localization in enclosed spaces (buildings, mines, etc), its performance
degrades near power lines where landmarks are spatially distant and devoid of
clear features. Consequently, we have derived a novel measurement algorithm that
utilizes the time-varying electromagnetic fields generated by the power lines. A
unique configuration and filtering of the time-varying Electromagnetic (EM)
field allows the estimation of the cable positions, which can be utilized as
additional landmarks in GTSAM. Developed from first principles using Maxwell's
equations and subsequently verified through EM Finite Element Method (FEM), this
technique is set for in-flight experimental validation. The thesis ultimately
aims to enhance localization capabilities around power lines using the
surrounding electromagnetic fields.
Bacteriological study of post-operative wound infection in DMCH
Authors: Pal Supria Rani , Rahman M. Saifur
Published: February 2025

Background: Post-operative wound infection is leading cause of morbidity, prolonged hospital stays. Understanding the bacteriological profile and associated risk factors is essential for effective prevention and management. This study was aimed to determine the bacteriological profile and associated factors of post-operative wound infections in women treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH).
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at department of gynecology and obstetrics, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, from October 2019 to September 2021. A total of 200 women diagnosed as post-operative wound infection were enrolled in the study by purposive sampling. A detailed history, thorough clinical examination and wound swab culture and sensitivity test were carried out in each patient. Separate case-record data were gathered, and SPSS 24 was used for analysis.
Results: Among the post-operative wound infected women maximum had culture positive bacteriological findings (67%), where gram-positive bacteria, primarily Staphylococcus aureus (33.6%) were the most common pathogens, followed by gram-negative bacteria, including Escherichia coli (20.9%), Pseudomonas (20.9%), Acetobacter (14.2%) and Klebsiella (10.4%). Gram positive infections were associated with anemia (91.1%) and gram-negative infections with diabetes mellitus (23.6%). There was no significant association between bacterial type and the type of surgery, duration of hospital stays or obstetric factors like prolonged rupture of membranes or preeclampsia.
Conclusions: Gram positive and gram-negative bacteria cause post-operative wound infections in DMCH, with anemia, diabetes, and other comorbidities being equally important. However, further larger studies in different surgical units are warranted.
Ultrasound guidance versus classical method for intrauterine insemination
Authors: Abdulwahab Aliaa Saleh , Sharief Maysoon
Published: February 2025

Background: There are a wide range of treatment options available for unexplained infertility, such as expectant management, superovulation, intrauterine insemination (IUI) and In vitro fertilization (IVF). So, the objective was to compare clinical pregnancy rates in IUI with transabdominal ultrasound guidance (US-IUI) versus the “blind method” IUI.
Methods: This was a randomized controlled trial done at Basrah Maternity and Child Hospital/IVF Center during the period between 01 January 2020 till 01 March 2023. 130 couples with unexplained infertility were included. All couples underwent infertility assessment in day 2 or day 3 basal serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and serum luteinizing hormone (LH) levels. Patients were divided randomly into 2 groups; 1ST group (70 women) underwent IUI with transabdominal ultrasound guidance while the 2nd group (60 women) undergoing IUI without ultrasound guidance.
Results: The mean age of the patients was 30.6 ± 4.0 years (range 25-40). Of the 267 cycles, 145 were carried out as US-guided and 122 were performed using the blind procedure. The overall pregnancy rate was 17%; one pregnancy were multiple pregnancies and 1 ended in abortion. There was no significant difference between the US-guided and blinded IUI groups regarding the multiple-pregnancy rate, abortion rate. The pregnancy rates were 23.4% and 13.9% respectively and the difference was statistically significant (p=0.049). In the US-guided group, 9.7% of the cases were difficult. In the blinded group, 26.2% were difficult.
Conclusions: The conventional blind method for intrauterine catheter insemination is recommended for patients undergoing IUI treatment.
Clinical study on risk factors, management pattern and outcome of patients with secondary post-partum hemorrhage admitted in BSMMU
Authors: Tabassum Mishkat , Akter Sharmin , Karim Mohammad Ezazul , Akter Naznine , Das Tripti Rani
Published: February 2025

Background: Secondary postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a life-threatening obstetric condition. The percentage of secondary PPH is thought to be higher in developing countries. This is an important cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. Most of the patients had no identifiable risk factors and PPH cannot always be preventable. The particular cause of the hemorrhage must be investigated and treated after basic resuscitation. This study aims to evaluate risk factors, management pattern and outcome of patients with secondary PPH.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the department of obstetrics and gynaecology, BSMMU, total patients were 42 who fulfilled the selection criteria, from March 2012 to August 2012 and data were interpreted with statistical analysis.
Results: Among 42 patients, 54.77% presented with identifiable risk factors, with multiple pregnancy (14.2%) and prolonged rupture of membranes (9.52%) being the most common. The leading causes were infection (54.29%) and retained placental tissue (28.57%). Most patients (59.52%) were managed medically using uterotonic drugs and antibiotics, while 23.8% required surgical evacuation of retained tissue. Blood transfusion was needed in 80.95% of cases. Favorable outcomes were observed in 97.61% of patients, with only one case of complications and no maternal deaths.
Conclusions: Medical and surgical interventions for secondary PPH are effective. Prevention and early detection require strengthening of antenatal care, hygiene during childbirth and post-partum monitoring.
A comparative study of co-morbidities and outcomes between HELLP syndrome and severe pre-eclampsia without HELLP syndrome in a tertiary care centre
Authors: Lewis Preeti F. , Surpatne Vaishnavi V. , Bendale Rucha , Thathira Swati
Published: February 2025

Background: Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy specific, multi-system, life-threatening complication. Incidence of severe pre-eclampsia varies between 10-20% of all pregnancies and that of HELLP syndrome is 0.2-0.6% of all pregnancies. This study aims to provide a comprehensive view of maternal and perinatal outcomes in HELLP syndrome and that of severe pre-eclampsia without HELLP. 
Methods: This prospective, observational, comparative study was conducted at a tertiary care centre- Grant medical college and sir JJ group of hospitals, in a period of 10 months (March 2024 to December 2024). 30 patients of pre-eclampsia with severe features were compared with 30 patients of HELLP syndrome. The maternal and perinatal outcomes were studied and results analysed. 
Results: Incidence of maternal complications and the need for blood and blood products transfusion was greater in HELLP syndrome. However, only marginal differences were noted in the perinatal outcomes.
Conclusions: HELLP syndrome is associated with increased maternal morbidity and mortality as compared to severe pre-eclampsia. Only marginal differences were noted in neonatal outcomes due to HELLP syndrome and severe preeclampsia without HELLP syndrome. Aggressive and timely treatment of these maternal conditions helps in reducing the maternal morbidity and mortality.