bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between in-ICU red blood cells transfusion and 1-year mortality in ICU survivors
Authors: Blet Alice , McNeil Joel B. , Josse Julie , Cholley Bernard , Cinotti Raphaël , Cotter Gad , Dauvergne Agnès , Davison Beth , Duarte Kévin , Duranteau Jacques , Fournier Marie-Céline , Gayat Etienne , Jaber Samir , Lasocki Sigismond , Merkling Thomas , Peoc’h Katell , Mayer Imke , Sadoune Malha , Laterre Pierre-François , Sonneville Romain , Ware Lorraine , Mebazaa Alexandre , Kimmoun Antoine
Published: October 2022

Background

Impact of in-ICU transfusion on long-term outcomes remains unknown. The purpose of this study was to assess in critical-care survivors the association between in-ICU red blood cells transfusion and 1-year mortality.

Methods

FROG-ICU, a multicenter European study enrolling all-comers critical care patients was analyzed (n = 1551). Association between red blood cells transfusion administered in intensive care unit and 1-year mortality in critical care survivors was analyzed using an augmented inverse probability of treatment weighting-augmented inverse probability of censoring weighting method to control confounders.

Results

Among the 1551 ICU-survivors, 42% received at least one unit of red blood cells while in intensive care unit. Patients in the transfusion group had greater severity scores than those in the no-transfusion group. According to unweighted analysis, 1-year post-critical care mortality was greater in the transfusion group compared to the no-transfusion group (hazard ratio (HR) 1.78, 95% CI 1.45–2.16). Weighted analyses including 40 confounders, showed that transfusion remained associated with a higher risk of long-term mortality (HR 1.21, 95% CI 1.06–1.46).

Conclusions

Our results suggest a high incidence of in-ICU RBC transfusion and that in-ICU transfusion is associated with a higher 1-year mortality among in-ICU survivors.

Trial registration (NCT01367093; Registered 6 June 2011).

Graphic Abstract
Therapeutic effects of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem/stromal cells with enhanced migration ability and hepatocyte growth factor secretion by low-molecular-weight heparin treatment in bleomycin-induced mouse models of systemic sclerosis
Authors: Suzuka Takayasu , Kotani Takuya , Saito Takashi , Matsuda Shogo , Sato Takako , Takeuchi Tohru
Published: October 2022

Background

Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) have gained attention as a new treatment for systemic sclerosis (SSc). Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) enhances cell function and stimulates the production of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) in a variety of cells. This study investigated the effects of LMWH on the functions of mouse ASCs (mASCs), and the therapeutic effects of mASCs activated with LMWH (hep-mASCs) in mouse models of SSc.

Methods

The cellular functions of mASCs cultured with different concentrations of LMWH were determined. Mice were divided into four groups: bleomycin (BLM)-induced SSc (BLM-alone), BLM-induced SSc administered with mASCs (BLM-mASC), and BLM-induced SSc administered with mASCs activated with 10 or 100 μg/mL LMWH (BLM-hep-mASC); there were 9 mice per group (n = 9). Skin inflammation and fibrosis were evaluated using histological and biochemical examinations and gene expression levels.

Results

In vitro assays showed that migration ability and HGF production were significantly higher in hep-mASCs than in mASCs alone. The mRNA expression levels of cell migration factors were significantly upregulated in hep-mASCs compared to those in mASCs alone. The hep-mASCs accumulated in the skin tissues more than mASCs alone. The thickness of skin and hydroxyproline content in BLM-hep-mASC groups were significantly decreased, and the skin mRNA expression levels of interleukin-2, α-smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor β1, collagen type 1 alpha 1, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 2 were significantly downregulated compared to those in the BLM-alone group.

Conclusions

hep-mASCs showed higher anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects than mASCs alone and may be a promising candidate for SSc treatment.
Patients with Peyronie’s disease achieve complete plaque regression after multimodal treatment with antioxidants: a case series
Authors: Paulis Gianni , De Giorgio Giovanni
Published: October 2022

Background

Peyronie’s disease is a chronic inflammatory condition of the corpora cavernosa characterized by the formation of plaque in the tunica albuginea, which results in penile deformity. Conservative medical approaches encompass oral, topical, and physical treatment. Only two cases of patients with Peyronie’s disease with complete plaque regression after treatment have been described in literature.

Case presentation

Case 1: A 50-year-old Caucasian man with penile pain and double penile curvature of 5° (left ventrolateral), palpable nodule, and normal penile rigidity. The patient underwent multimodal therapy (oral antioxidants + topical diclofenac gel). At follow-up after over 4 years of treatment, the patient no longer complained of any penile deformity or pain. Ultrasound examination did not show any plaque.Case 2: A 26-year-old Caucasian man with lateral-right penile curvature of 30° (previous congenital curvature of 15°), palpable nodule, and normal penile rigidity. The patient underwent multimodal therapy (oral antioxidants + topical diclofenac gel + penile injections/pentoxifylline). After 28 months of treatment, the patient presented a lateral right curve of 15° at follow-up, similar to the original congenital penile curvature. Ultrasound examination no longer showed any plaque.Case 3: A 36-year-old Caucasian man with penile pain and a complex penile curvature of 15° and 20° (left dorsolateral), palpable nodule, and normal penile rigidity. The patient underwent multimodal therapy (oral antioxidants + topical diclofenac gel + penile injections/pentoxifylline). At follow-up after 28 months of treatment, the patient presented a dorsal curve (10°) similar to the original congenital curvature. Penile palpation did not detect any nodules, and ultrasound no longer showed any plaque.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that our multimodal therapy is able to completely regress plaque, as demonstrated in our previously published article. Peyronie’s disease has the potential to be treated conservatively with good results. However, this method of treatment needs to be combined with accurate ultrasound assessment, performed using a sufficiently advanced machine by an experienced operator.
Laplace inverse and MR approach to existence of a unique solution and the Hyers–Ulam–Wright stability analysis of the nonhomogeneous fractional delay oscillation equation by matrix-valued fuzzy controllers
Authors: Eidinejad Zahra , Saadati Reza , Li Chenkuan
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we consider the nonhomogeneous fractional delay oscillation equation with order κ and investigate the existence of a unique solution in matrix-valued fuzzy Banach spaces for this equation using the alternative fixed point theorem. In a fuzzy environment, we introduce a class of the matrix-valued fuzzy Wright controller to investigate the Hyers–Ulam–Wright stability for the NH-FD-O equation with order κ. Finally, an illustrative example to demonstrate the application of the main theorem is also considered.
The creative city approach: origins, construction and prospects in a scenario of transition
Authors: Segovia Chema , Hervé Julie
Published: October 2022

The change of the century saw the emergence of a series of discourses that conceptualised different aspects related with culture as key elements in the future of urban realities. The fact that these notions have become encompassed within the celebrated label of “the creative city” leads us to think that they form a self-evident model, fully assimilated and of general value. However, the review of the process through which a reasonably cohesive and accepted framework was constructed unveils the complex nature of the creative city. This article introduces the idea of the creative city as an “approach”, in the sense of an epistemological and methodological focus that is distinguishable, yet neither rigid nor closed. An understanding of this type is useful for assessing the validity and the imbalances of the creative city in the midst of an epoch of problematic transition, in which culture and the city are alternatively defined as spaces of conflict or spaces of hope.
Patient involvement in basic rheumatology research at Nijmegen: a three year’s responsive evaluation of added value, pitfalls and conditions for success
Authors: de Wit Maarten P. T. , Koenders M. I. , Neijland Y. , van den Hoogen F. H. J. , van der Kraan P. M. , van de Loo F. A. J. , Berkers H. , Lieon M. , van Caam A. , van den Ende C.
Published: October 2022

Background

Empirical evidence for effective patient-researcher collaboration in basic research is lacking. This study aims to explore good working models and impact of patient involvement in basic rheumatology research and to identify barriers and facilitators.

Method

A responsive evaluation of a three years’ participatory research project in a basic and translational laboratory research setting. Several working models for patient involvement were piloted and adapted if considered necessary. The study comprised surveys, interviews, training days, meeting reports, Q-sort exercises and field notes, and regular reflective team sessions with participant involvement. A qualitative analysis using thematic coding focused on impact, barriers and facilitators.

Results

Thirteen patient research partners (PRPs) and fifteen basic researchers participated. PRPs experienced basic research as fascinating though complex to understand. Their initial role was mostly listening and asking questions. After several meetings equal and more meaningful relationships emerged. Researchers’ motivation increased by listening to patient stories. They learned about disease impact on daily life and to speak in understandable language. This enabled PRPs to learn about research and the pathogenesis of their disease. It inspired them to stay involved over a longer period. After three years, both parties preferred 1:1 contacts over collaboration in team meetings. A common language and respectful communication were important facilitators. Limitations were the complexity of disease processes for patients and the time commitment for researchers. Impact was reported as a sincere dialogue with multiple advantages for patients and researchers, and to a lesser extent than expected on the research process and outcomes.

Conclusion

Patient involvement contributes to motivating young scientists in performing basic research projects. Patients and researchers valued the benefits of long-term one-on-one collaboration. These benefits outweigh the lack of direct impact on basic research goals and performance.

A plain language summary of the abstract
is available (as) online Additional file 1.
Intravoxel incoherent motion magnetic resonance imaging and derived parameters in the assessment for polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Ozkok Sercin , Sorkun Mine , Dogan Mahmut Bilal , Can Bulent , Hocaoglu Meryem , Aslan Ahmet
Published: October 2022

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinologic disorder in reproductive age. Diagnosis is based on clinical, laboratory, and ultrasonography findings. However, the application of ultrasound for the diagnosis of PCOS in overweight and sexually inactive patients may be limited. The purpose of this study was to display the imaging characteristics of intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-derived parameters as Dtrue (slow diffusion coefficient),D* (perfusion-related diffusion),f(perfusion fraction), and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) in PCOS.

Results

A total of 43 women, 20 with PCOS (mean age, 24.09 ± 3.92 years) and 23 healthy control (mean age, 23 ± 1.67 years), were included. IVIM MRI-derived parameters of the ovarian stroma were measured by two observers. MeanD* andfvalues were found to be higher in PCOS patients than in individuals in the control group (p = 0.011 andp = 0.004, respectively). The ADC value was found to be significantly lower in the patient group (p = 0.003). There was no statistically significant difference between two groups in Dtrue (p = 0.742). The interclass correlation analysis of two observers for both groups showed a good-to-excellent agreement. The ROC produced an AUC of 0.521, a sensitivity of 50%, a specificity of 57%, and a cut-off value of 1.48 × 10−3mm2/s for Dtrue; an AUC of 0.769, a sensitivity of 55%, a specificity of 67%, and a cut-off value of 22.25 × 10−3mm2/s forD*; an AUC of 0.734, a sensitivity of 55%, a specificity of 62%, and a cut-off value of 20.87% forf; an AUC of 0.893, a sensitivity of 90%, a specificity of 33%, and a cut-off value of 1.37 × 10−3mm2/s for ADC.

Conclusions

IVIM MRI would be an alternative imaging tool in the diagnosis of PCOS with a good-to-excellent agreement and with acceptable sensitivity and specificity.
What College Biology Students Know about How Vaccines Work
Authors: Kahlon Gavina , Waheed Fareshta , Owens Melinda T.
Published: October 2022

A sample of more than 600 college biology students were asked: “How does a vaccine work?” A rubric was created to score the presence of basic knowledge about vaccines and the accuracy of students’ knowledge and documented inaccurate ideas. The prompt and rubric provide a new way to gauge college student understanding of how a vaccine works and what college students know about this process.
Stigma among UK family carers of people living with dementia
Authors: Bhatt Jem , Scior Katrina , Stoner Charlotte R. , Moniz-Cook Esme , Charlesworth Georgina
Published: October 2022

Background

Models of caregiving seldom include the role of stigma when understanding the experiences of carers of people living with dementia.

Aims

To investigate the validity of the Family Stigma Instrument (FAMSI), and use it to explore the extent to which experiences of stigma are endorsed in family carers of people living with dementia.

Method

The FAMSI was tested with 70 carers of people living with dementia. They also completed a measure of self-esteem.

Results

The FAMSI demonstrated some good preliminary psychometric properties. Carers endorsed stigma by association more so than affiliate stigma constructs, suggesting that carers were aware that others viewed or treated them in a stigmatising fashion but did not endorse internalised consequences of this as much (e.g. behavioural or affective affiliate stigma).

Conclusions

The FAMSI offers new avenues for understanding the contribution of stigma to caregiver burden in dementia. It also captures the positive aspects of caregiving, which may mitigate internalised stigma in family carers, and has good potential for evaluating stigma-neutralising interventions in dementia care.
Association of Complement C3 With Incident Type 2 Diabetes and the Mediating Role of BMI: A 10-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Jiang Jing , Wang Hao , Liu Kang , He Shiqi , Li Zhaoyang , Yuan Yu , Yu Kuai , Long Pinpin , Wang Jing , Diao Tingyue , Zhang Xiaomin , He Meian , Guo Huan , Wu Tangchun
Published: October 2022

Context

Impairment of immune and inflammatory homeostasis is reported to be one of the causal factors of diabetes. However, the association of complement C3 levels with incident diabetes in humans remains unclear.

Objective

This study aimed to examine the association between C3 levels and incident type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and further explore the potential mediating role of body mass index (BMI) in C3-T2DM associations.

Methods

We determined serum C3 levels of 2662 nondiabetic middle-aged and elderly (64.62 ± 7.25 years) individuals from the Dongfeng–Tongji cohort at baseline. Cox regression was employed to examine the incidence of T2DM in relationship to C3 levels during 10 years of follow-up. Mediation analysis was further applied to assess potential effect of BMI on the C3-T2DM associations.

Results

Overall, 711 (26.7%) participants developed T2DM during 23 067 person-years of follow-up. Higher serum C3 was significantly associated with higher risk of incident T2DM after full adjustment (HR [95% CI] = 1.16 [1.05, 1.27]; per SD higher). Compared with the first quartile of C3 levels, the HR in the fourth quartile was 1.52 (95% CI = [1.14, 2.02]; Ptrend = 0.029). Robust significant linear dose-response relationship was observed between C3 levels and BMI (Poverall < 0.001, Pnonlinear = 0.96). Mediation analyses indicated that BMI might mediate 41.0% of the associations between C3 and T2DM.

Conclusion

The present prospective study revealed that C3 could be an early biomarker for incident T2DM, and that BMI might play a potential mediating role in the C3-T2DM associations, which provided clues for the pathogenesis of diabetes.
Plexin D1 negatively regulates zebrafish lymphatic development
Authors: Britto Denver D. , He Jia , Misa June P. , Chen Wenxuan , Kakadia Purvi M. , Grimm Lin , Herbert Caitlin D. , Crosier Kathryn E. , Crosier Philip S. , Bohlander Stefan K. , Hogan Benjamin M. , Hall Christopher J. , Torres-Vázquez Jesús , Astin Jonathan W.
Published: October 2022

Lymphangiogenesis is a dynamic process that involves the directed migration of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) to form lymphatic vessels. The molecular mechanisms that underpin lymphatic vessel patterning are not fully elucidated and, to date, no global regulator of lymphatic vessel guidance is known. In this study, we identify the transmembrane cell signalling receptor Plexin D1 (Plxnd1) as a negative regulator of both lymphatic vessel guidance and lymphangiogenesis in zebrafish. plxnd1 is expressed in developing lymphatics and is required for the guidance of both the trunk and facial lymphatic networks. Loss of plxnd1 is associated with misguided intersegmental lymphatic vessel growth and aberrant facial lymphatic branches. Lymphatic guidance in the trunk is mediated, at least in part, by the Plxnd1 ligands, Semaphorin 3AA and Semaphorin 3C. Finally, we show that Plxnd1 normally antagonises Vegfr/Erk signalling to ensure the correct number of facial LECs and that loss of plxnd1 results in facial lymphatic hyperplasia. As a global negative regulator of lymphatic vessel development, the Sema/Plxnd1 signalling pathway is a potential therapeutic target for treating diseases associated with dysregulated lymphatic growth.
Emerging insights into serine/threonine-specific phosphoprotein phosphatase function and selectivity
Authors: Kokot Thomas , Köhn Maja
Published: October 2022

Protein phosphorylation on serine and threonine residues is a widely distributed post-translational modification on proteins that acts to regulate their function. Phosphoprotein phosphatases (PPPs) contribute significantly to a plethora of cellular functions through the accurate dephosphorylation of phosphorylated residues. Most PPPs accomplish their purpose through the formation of complex holoenzymes composed of a catalytic subunit with various regulatory subunits. PPP holoenzymes then bind and dephosphorylate substrates in a highly specific manner. Despite the high prevalence of PPPs and their important role for cellular function, their mechanisms of action in the cell are still not well understood. Nevertheless, substantial experimental advancements in (phospho-)proteomics, structural and computational biology have contributed significantly to a better understanding of PPP biology in recent years. This Review focuses on recent approaches and provides an overview of substantial new insights into the complex mechanism of PPP holoenzyme regulation and substrate selectivity.
Seasonal variation in rest–activity patterns in barnacle geese: are measurements of activity a good indicator of sleep–wake patterns?
Authors: van Hasselt Sjoerd J. , Piersma Theunis , Meerlo Peter
Published: October 2022

Sleep is a widely spread phenomenon in the animal kingdom and is thought to serve important functions. Yet, the function of sleep remains an enigma. Studies in non-model animal species in their natural habitat might provide more insight into the evolution and function of sleep. However, polysomnography in the wild may not always be an option or first choice and some studies may need to rely on rest–activity recordings as a proxy for sleep and wakefulness. In the current paper, we analyzed how accelerometry-based activity data correlate with electroencephalogram (EEG)-based sleep–wake patterns in barnacle geese under seminatural conditions across different seasons. In winter, the geese had pronounced daily rhythms in rest and activity, with most activity occurring during the daytime. In summer, activity was more spread out over the 24 h cycle. Hourly activity scores strongly correlated with EEG-determined time awake, but the strength of the correlation varied with phase of the day and season. In winter, the correlations between activity and waking time were weaker for daytime than for night-time. Furthermore, the correlations between activity and waking during daytime were weaker in winter than in summer. During daytime in winter, there were many instances where the birds were awake but not moving. Experimental sleep deprivation had no effect on the strength of the correlation between activity scores and EEG-based wake time. Overall, hourly activity scores also showed significant inverse correlation with the time spent in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep. However, correlation between activity scores and time spent in REM sleep was weak. In conclusion, accelerometry-based activity scores can serve as a good estimate for time awake or even the specific time spent in NREM sleep. However, activity scores cannot reliably predict REM sleep and sleep architecture.
Ontogeny of risk assessment and escape-hatching performance by red-eyed treefrog embryos in two threat contexts
Authors: Güell Brandon A. , Jung Julie , Almanzar Adeline , Cuccaro-Díaz Juliana , Warkentin Karen M.
Published: October 2022

Arboreal embryos of red-eyed treefrogs, Agalychnis callidryas, hatch prematurely in response to hypoxia when flooded and to mechanosensory cues in snake attacks, but hatching later improves tadpole survival. We studied ontogenetic changes in risk assessment and hatching performance of embryos in response to flooding and physical disturbance. We hypothesized that risk assessment decreases as hatchling survival improves and hatching performance increases as embryos develop. Because snakes eat faster than embryos asphyxiate, we hypothesized that embryos decide to hatch sooner and hatch faster in response to mechanosensory cues. We video-recorded individual embryos hatching in response to each cue type, then compared the incidence and timing of a series of events and behaviors from cue onset to complete hatching across ages and stimuli. Latency from cue to hatching decreased developmentally in both contexts and was shorter with mechanosensory cues, but the elements contributing to those changes differed. Hypoxia assessment involved position changes, which decreased developmentally along with assessment time. Mechanosensory cue assessment occurred more rapidly, without movement, and decreased with age. The first stages of hatching, membrane rupture and head emergence, were surprisingly age independent but faster with mechanosensory cues, congruent with greater effort under more immediate risk. In contrast, body emergence and compression showed ontogenetic improvement consistent with morphological constraints but no cue effect. Both appropriate timing and effective performance of hatching are necessary for continued development. Different stages of the process vary with development and environmental context, suggesting combinations of adaptive context- and stage-dependent behavior, cue-related constraints on information acquisition, and ontogenetic constraints on elements of performance.
Effects of different modes of exercise on skeletal muscle mass and function and IGF-1 signaling during early aging in mice
Authors: Li Bowen , Feng Lili , Wu Xiaonan , Cai Mengxin , Yu Jane Jie , Tian Zhenjun
Published: October 2022

Skeletal muscle mass and function tend to decline with increasing age. Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) plays a key role in promoting skeletal muscle growth. Exercise improves skeletal muscle mass and function via the activation of IGF-1 signaling. The aim of this study was to investigate whether different types of exercise can promote muscle hypertrophy, exercise and metabolic capacities, and activate IGF-1 signaling during early aging in mice. We randomly assigned 12 month old male C57/BL6 mice into five groups: control, aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, whole-body vibration and electrical stimulation group. Gastrocnemius muscle mass, myofiber size, levels of IGF-1 signaling, oxidative stress, protein synthesis and degradation, and apoptosis were detected. C2C12 cells were used to explore the mechanism by which exercise exerts its effects. We confirmed that the four modes of exercise increased skeletal muscle mass, exercise capacity, indicators of metabolism and protein synthesis, and inhibited oxidative stress and apoptosis via activation of the IGF-1 pathway. The most effective intervention was resistance exercise. Whole-body vibration promoted muscle hypertrophy better than aerobic exercise. Furthermore, in the in vitro experiment, the importance of IGF-1/IGF-1R–PI3K/Akt signaling for maintaining skeletal muscle mass was confirmed. Aerobic exercise, resistance exercise, whole-body vibration and electrical stimulation increased skeletal muscle mass, exercise capacity, protein synthesis and metabolic enzyme activity, and inhibited protein degradation and apoptosis in mice undergoing early aging via activation of IGF-1 signaling. Of these, whole-body vibration has been shown to be significantly effective and is similar to conventional exercise in promoting muscle hypertrophy.
Neuromuscular Training following Anterior Cruciate Ligament reconstruction – Pain, Function, Strength, Power & Quality of Life Perspective: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Khalid Kehkshan , Anwar Naveed , Saqulain Ghulam , Afzal Muhammad Faheem
Published: October 2022

Objectives: To determine the effectiveness of neuromuscular physical Therapy as compared to strength training following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction in terms of pain, function, quality of life, strength and power of participants.

Methods: A randomized clinical trial was conducted at Kanaan Physiotherapy & Spine Clinic, Lahore, Pakistan from July 2020 to December 2020. Seventy-six patients were selected by non-probability convenience sampling technique and randomly divided into either neuromuscular training or strength training group. Sample included 20-40 years aged adults with unilateral anterior cruciate ligament injury who had undergone surgical reconstruction of ACL two months ago using hamstring graft. Patients were assessed using the Cincinnati Knee Score for function, Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) for pain, SF-36 for quality of life, and Single Leg Hop, Triple Hop, Crossover Hop and 6-meter Hop test for power and strength. Data was analyzed using SPSS Version-21. A t-test was used to assess difference between groups. P<0.05 was considered significant.

Results: Results revealed that neuromuscular training is statistically significant in reducing pain (p<0.001) and improving function (p<0.001), power & strength (p<0.001) and quality of life (p=0.001).

Conclusion: Study concludes that compared to strength training, neuromuscular training was significantly more effective in reducing pain; improving function, quality of life, strength and power.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.8.5730

How to cite this:Khalid K, Anwar N, Saqulain G, Afzal MF. Neuromuscular Training following Anterior Cruciate Ligament reconstruction – Pain, Function, Strength, Power & Quality of Life Perspective: A Randomized Control Trial. Pak J Med Sci. 2022;38(8):---------.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.38.8.5730

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Heirloom or Antique? Import or Imitation? Objects with Fictive “Biographies” in Early Iron Age Knossos
Authors: Antoniadis Vyron
Published: October 2022

During the Early Iron Age, Knossos was one of the most important cities of the Aegean. In addition to objects from elsewhere in the Aegean, a wide range of Cypriot, Phoenician and North Syrian imports has been discovered in the Early Iron Age Knossian cemeteries. In certain cases, these grave goods predate their funerary context by a century. This paper examines the stylistic and contextual dating of these imports, in an attempt to associate, from a contextual point of view, these items with the funerary practices of the Knossians. Grave goods deposited in the same cemeteriesalso included Early Iron Age local imitations of Late Bronze Age Near Eastern imports. It is suggested that members of the Early Iron Age Knossian elite treated certain contemporary objects, which belonged stylistically either to the Late Bronze Age Cypriot, Phoenician or North Syrian traditions, on the one hand, or to the local Minoan tradition, on the other hand, as if they were antiques and/or heirlooms. In this way, that is, by appropriating the ancestral past of the community, the elite could establish and maintain their authority. For this reason, “fake” keimelia and heirlooms had to acquire new complex “biographies”.
Major Events in the Recent Past in Assembly Speeches and the Authenticity of [Andocides] On the Peace
Authors: Harris Edward
Published: October 2022

This paper begins by demonstrating that speakers in the Assembly did not misrepresent major events in recent history. An examination of Demosthenes’ speeches to the Assembly shows that his statements about recent events are accurate but are usually brief. This is true for speeches to the Assembly found in Thucydides and Xennophon. The main part of the essay shows that the speech On the Peace attributed to Andocides makes major mistakes about recent events (such as the walls and fleet of Athens, peace between the Boeotians and the Spartans, Athenian control over Euboea, peace with Persia, etc.). The speech also does not conform to the rhetorical conventions of the Assembly (naming one’s ancestors, giving lengthy accounts of past events), contains statements about presbeis autokratores which are inconsistent with the evidence for this institution in Classical Greece and uses the term spondai in a way unparalleled in classical sources. All this evidence shows that the speech is not a genuine work of Andocides but a forgery composed in the Hellenistic or Roman period.
Qualitative analysis of HIV and AIDS disease transmission: impact of awareness, testing and effective follow up
Authors: Abiodun Oluwakemi E. , Adebimpe Olukayode , Ndako James , Oludoun Olajumoke , Aladeitan Benedicta , Adeniyi Michael
Published: October 2022

Background: Since the early 1980s, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and its accompanying acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) have spread worldwide, becoming one of the world's major global health issues. From the beginning of the epidemic until 2020, about 79.3 million people became infected, with 36.3 million deaths due to AIDS illnesses. This huge figure is a result of those unaware of their status due to stigmatization and invariably spreading the virus unknowingly.

Methods: Qualitative analysis through a mathematical model that will address HIV unaware individuals and the effect of an increasing defaulter on the dynamics of HIV/AIDS was investigated. The impact of treatment and the effect of inefficient follow-up on the transmission of HIV/AIDS were examined. The threshold for the effective reduction of the unaware status of HIV through testing, in response to awareness, and the significance of effective non-defaulting in treatment commonly called defaulters loss to follow-up as these individuals contribute immensely to the spread of the virus due to their increase in CD4+ count was determined in this study. Stability analysis of equilibrium points is performed using the basic reproduction number $R_0$, an epidemiological threshold that determines disease eradication or persistence in viral populations. We tested the most sensitive parameters in the basic reproduction numbers. The model of consideration in this study is based on the assumption that information (awareness) and non-stigmatization can stimulate change in the behaviours of infected individuals, and can lead to an increase in testing and adherence to treatment. This will in turn reduce the basic reproduction number, and consequently, the spread of the virus.

Results: The results portray that the early identification and treatment are inadequate for the illness to be eradicated.

Conclusions: Other control techniques, such as treatment adherence and effective condom usage, should be investigated in order to lessen the disease's burden.
Viewing the global health system as a complex adaptive system – implications for research and practice
Authors: Borghi Josephine , Ismail Sharif , Hollway James , Kim Rakhyun E. , Sturmberg Joachim , Brown Garrett , Mechler Reinhard , Volmink Heinrich , Spicer Neil , Chalabi Zaid , Cassidy Rachel , Johnson Jeff , Foss Anna , Koduah Augustina , Searle Christa , Komendantova Nadejda , Semwanga Agnes , Moon Suerie
Published: October 2022

The global health system (GHS) is ill-equipped to deal with the increasing number of transnational challenges. The GHS needs reform to enhance global resilience to future risks to health. In this article we argue that the starting point for any reform must be conceptualizing and studying the GHS as a complex adaptive system (CAS) with a large and escalating number of interconnected global health actors that learn and adapt their behaviours in response to each other and changes in their environment. The GHS can be viewed as a multi-scalar, nested health system comprising all national health systems together with the global health architecture, in which behaviours are influenced by cross-scale interactions. However, current methods cannot adequately capture the dynamism or complexity of the GHS or quantify the effects of challenges or potential reform options. We provide an overview of a selection of systems thinking and complexity science methods available to researchers and highlight the numerous policy insights their application could yield.   We also discuss the challenges for researchers of applying these methods and for policy makers of digesting and acting upon them. We encourage application of a CAS approach to GHS research and policy making to help bolster resilience to future risks that transcend national boundaries and system scales.
Paradigm shift in medical education due to the COVID-19 pandemic: guidelines for developing a blended learning curriculum in medical education
Authors: Rafi Aisha , Anwar Muhammad Idrees , Younas Ayesha , Manzoor Shamaila
Published: October 2022

Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has transformed the world’s economy, health and education in a blink of an eye. Almost 1 billion learners have been affected across the globe. This has resulted in a paradigm shift to blended learning. Therefore, it was felt necessary to provide practical guidelines for the development of blended curriculum in medical education. It would help to overcome the challenges faced due to unprecedented transformation of medical education on account of pandemic.

Methods: Guidelines based on personal experience of the authors and literature search were developed using the complex adapted blended learning system (CALBS) framework. Seven experts developed these guidelines using the nominal group technique. The consent form and literature for CABLS framework was shared with experts. The experts developed the guidelines independently during phase one of the technique. After a given time, phase 2 started with moderator mediated discussion about the individual guidelines developed by the experts. After discussion and mutual consensus four types of guideline ideas were developed. During the third phase the experts ranked the guideline ideas on a scale of 1 to 5. The guideline idea that ranked highest was selected as a final guideline for developing a blended learning curriculum.

Results: The group consensus resulted in developing seven guidelines for a blended course or curriculum in medical education. These guidelines are based on a conceptual framework supplemented by expert’s own personal experience and current evidence from literature.

Conclusions: These guidelines would provide a comprehensive and systematic approach to develop a blended learning curriculum in medical education.
Research Software vs. Research Data II: Protocols for Research Data dissemination and evaluation in the Open Science context
Authors: Gomez-Diaz Teresa , Recio Tomas
Published: October 2022

Background: Open Science seeks to render research outputs visible, accessible and reusable. In this context, Research Data and Research Software sharing and dissemination issues provide real challenges to the scientific community, as consequence of recent progress in political, legal and funding requirements.

Methods: We take advantage from the approach we have developed in a precedent publication, in which we have highlighted the similarities between the Research Data and Research Software definitions.

Results: The similarities between Research Data and Research Software definitions can be extended to propose protocols for Research Data dissemination and evaluation derived from those already proposed for Research Software dissemination and evaluation. We also analyze FAIR principles for these outputs.

Conclusions: Our proposals here provide concrete instructions for Research Data and Research Software producers to make them more findable and accessible, as well as arguments to choose suitable dissemination platforms to complete the FAIR framework. Future work could analyze the potential extension of this parallelism to other kinds of research outputs that are disseminated under similar conditions to those of Research Data and Research Software, that is, without widely accepted publication procedures involving editors or other external actors and where the dissemination is usually restricted through the hands of the production team.
Flexible modular assembly lines on a single structural basis
Authors: Ivanov Anatoliy
Published: October 2022

The textbook discusses topical issues of automating the assembly of an extensive range of machine and instrument-making products based on highly efficient robotic reconfigurable systems of a new generation built on a single structural basis. The possibility of fast organization of automated assembly of new types of products, which is provided by the presence of a flexible basic set as part of the complex (line), is shown. A complete set of original technical means for basic and service operations of assembly and control of products is described. Analytical conditions of automatic assembly are given, and recommendations on optimization of design solutions and modeling of projected assembly systems are given.
It is intended for students studying under the bachelor's degree programs, certified specialists and masters, teachers of technical universities, as well as designers, technologists and scientists dealing with the problem of complex assembly automation.
Discrete mathematics: applied methods of set theory, counting and representation of information and mathematical logic
Authors: Gdanskiy Nikolay , Korablin Yu. , Blagoveschenskiy I.
Published: October 2022

The textbook presents in the most simplified form the basic theoretical provisions of set theory, number representation, combinatorics and mathematical logic, as well as ways to solve practical problems using their methods. A large number of examples are considered. There are also questions for self-control of the level of knowledge and tasks for self-solution.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For undergraduate and graduate students in the field of Computer Science and Computer Engineering, as well as students of other fields studying information technology. Also, the manual can be used by young specialists from the IT field in independently eliminating gaps in certain sections of discrete mathematics.
Family studies
Authors: Luk'yanova Inna , Utenkova Svetlana , Gimranov Rinat , Anikeeva Ol'ga
Published: October 2022

The textbook examines the legal foundations of marriage and family relations, the life cycle, the sociology and psychology of the family, as well as the problems of families raising a child with developmental disabilities. The variety of approaches to the family in social work, general and special pedagogy and psychology is revealed.
The content of the textbook meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For undergraduate students studying in the fields of "Sociology and social work", "Special (defectological) education", masters, postgraduates, teachers, as well as sociologists, psychologists, teachers and workers of other professions working with the family.
Mathematics
Authors: Omel'chenko Vitaliy , Karasenko Natal'ya , Lavrent'ev A. , Stukopin V.
Published: October 2022

The textbook describes in detail the basics of discrete mathematics, mathematical analysis, basic numerical methods, elements of linear algebra, probability theory and mathematical statistics. The presentation of the theoretical material is accompanied by a large number of examples and tasks. Tasks for independent work are given.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of secondary vocational education of the latest generation.
For students of all specialties of secondary vocational educational institutions.
History of economic studies
Authors: Kovnir Vladimir , Pogrebinskaya Ekaterina , Churzina Irina , Platonov Dmitriy , Kvasov Aleksandr
Published: October 2022

The textbook is a detailed outline of the development of economic science, which includes a description of the main works, basic concepts, trends, trends and schools of economic thought that characterize the development of economic science. The main theorists and developers of leading scientific fields, as well as Nobel Prize laureates in economics are presented with separate personal essays.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For students of higher educational institutions studying in the areas of training 38.03.01 "Economics"; 38.03.02 "Management"; 38.03.04 "State and municipal Administration"; 38.03.03 "Personnel Management"; for economics teachers, business school students, for self-studying economics, interested in the history of the development of economic science.
Dynamic aspects of the managerial culture of the internal affairs bodies of Russia
Authors: Perednya Dmitriy , Belyaev Aleksandr , Filimonov Oleg
Published: October 2022

In the monograph, the focus of research interest is primarily focused on the dynamic aspects of the managerial culture of the internal affairs bodies. The understanding of the object-subject area was carried out based on empirical data accumulated in recent years concerning changes in the managerial culture of internal affairs bodies.
At all times, management has been important for social structures. The fact is that the effective functioning of the organization is based on reasons directly or indirectly related to management issues, the form of existence of which is managerial culture. It is a complex phenomenon that is relevant both in research and in applied terms.
For a wide range of readers interested in the issues of managerial culture of internal affairs bodies. It can be useful for students, postgraduates and teachers of law schools.
Transport logistics
Authors: Eremeeva Lyudmila , Bol'shakov N.
Published: October 2022

The textbook examines the theoretical and methodological foundations of transport logistics in practical interaction with other functional areas in the promotion of material flow using the logistics management system and information support of transport infrastructure, as well as logistics service. The materials are presented on the basis of a modern process approach. Practical situational tasks with solution algorithms, tests to verify the knowledge gained, topics of abstracts for independent work are given.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
It is intended for undergraduate students of the training directions 23.03.01 "Technology of transport processes", 23.03.03 "Operation of transport and technological machines and complexes" of all forms of education. Since efficient transportation is an integral element of the production process, it can be used by specialists involved in the organization of transportation and its management, regardless of the industry orientation.
FLEXIBLE STRETCHABLE MECHANOLUMINESCENT- PEROVSKITE SENSOR FOR STRUCTURAL HEALTH MONITORING
Authors: SHOHAG MD ABU , NGUYEN MINH HOANG NHAT
Published: October 2022

Previously, we reported a flexible thin-film sensor realized through the combination of mechanoluminescent (ML) material with perovskite, which consists of multiple layers to harvest ML light. In this work, a thin film stretchable sensor is constructed through a simple manufacturing technique. The sensor comprises a thin functional layer of copper-doped zinc sulfide (ZnS:Cu) as a light emitter and a thin perovskite layer as a light absorber. The perovskite layer is constructed on a thin layer of poly(3,4- ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS), which is developed on a stretchable polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrate. Atop the thin perovskite lies a thin eutectic gallium indium (EGaIn) layer acting as an electrode. The simple selfpowered stretchable sensor allows easy fabrication and is a non-complex sensor architecture. Here, ZnS:Cu emits lights and perovskite immediately absorbs the light and converts it to electrical current. The output current of the sensor increases with an increase of applied strain. The self-powered sensor may find many applications in foot ulcer detection, prosthetic/artificial electronic skins, touchpad, and structural health monitoring of large composite structures.
A COMPARISON OF SENSING TECHNOLOGIES DETECTING DAMAGE AND CHANGES IN SMART CONCRETE
Authors: LIU HUA , DESHMUKH APARNA , SOBOLEV KONSTANTIN , SALOWITZ NATHAN , ZHAO JIAN
Published: October 2022

This paper presents results of a study of smart concrete with a combination of surface-mounted lead zirconate titanate (PZT) piezoelectric transducers and electrical resistivity-based sensing systems. Tests were performed to identify their sensitivities to concrete properties including cure state, load, and cracking. The smart concrete slab was created with added graphene nano-platelets, internal electrodes, and fiber reinforcement supporting electrical resistivity mapping. Electrical resistivities were measured over the curing time and with external loads applied to the cured specimens. The test results indicated that electrical resistivity was effective in detecting curing conditions of cement-based material. In addition, both piezoelectric transducers and smart concrete were effective in detecting cracks generated during a three-point bending test.