bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Influence of Corporate Governance on the Financial Performance. Case Study of the Energy Sector
Authors: Nițu (Ivan) Loredana-Georgia
Published: June 2024

Given the region’s commitment to sustainable and renewable energy sources as well as its reliance on conventional fossil fuels, the energy industry in Europe shines in the light of contemporary economies. The Euro­pean energy industry is at a turning point and is prepared to change in re­sponse to new environmental concerns and shifting market dynamics. This paper aims to investigate whether the corporate governance score (GOV) of companies operating in the energy sector is associated with their corpo­rate financial performance (CFP). The research covered data from 103 com­panies in the energy sector collected from Thomson Reuters Eikon for the period 2017-2021. The research used the regression and correlation analysis between GOV performance and its components and an accounting-based measure of profitability: total revenue. The data used in this study were an­alyzed using SPSS Software. The results show a partial but positive correla­tion between the management mechanisms on financial performance and a full positive influence of CSR strategy on financial performance; the share­holder score shows no impact. The energy sector is an environmentally sen­sitive yet understudied industry, and the present research helps to determine what has to be improved from a sustainability point of view
Differences in Household Intentions for Sustainable Food Consumption
Authors: Kehayova-Stoycheva Maria , Ivanov Svilen
Published: June 2024

The main purpose of this paper is to present part of the results of a survey carried out on the territory of Bulgaria among the households of three Bulgarian cities. The research was conducted in two waves and covered 2,117 Bulgarian households, with the data collected through a survey. The focus of the presented results falls on examining the relationships between some de­mographic characteristics such as income, education, dwelling size, place of residence, household size, household life cycle, and intentions to consume sus­tainably produced food. The results of the study show the existence of rela­tionships that can be analyzed. The revealed, albeit weak, regional differences in the intentions of households from the three cities to consume sustainably produced food and food prod­ucts can be used in the construction of marketing strategies and tools aimed at stimulating the consumption of sustainably produced food products.
Digital Transformation and Its Influence on Governance: Insights from Moroccan Service Sector SMEs
Authors: Ahmed Hama , Khaddouj Karim
Published: June 2024

The current digital era presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses worldwide. This research delves into the relationship between digital transformation and the governance of Small and Medium-sized Enter­prises (SMEs) in the Moroccan service sector. Utilizing responses from a survey of leaders from 200 SMEs throughout Morocco, the study employs Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to elucidate the intricate relationships. The results indicate a notable link between the adoption of digital strategies and im­proved governance. Yet, hurdles such as integrating technology and enhanc­ing employee skills remain. This paper provides a deeper understanding of the nexus between digital transformation and governance, spotlighting the distinct context of Moroccan SMEs.
An overview of techniques for studying the peculiarities of perception and reproduction of textual information by students with disabilities
Authors: Zolotova Viktoriia Olegovna
Published: June 2024

The article provides an overview of methods for studying the understanding and reproduction of texts by younger schoolchildren of the following nosological groups: hearing impaired (hard of hearing), with disorders of the musculoskeletal system (cerebral palsy) and with severe speech disorders (TNR).
Post-operative Unilateral Visual Loss and Ophthalmoplegia following Cervical Spine Surgery in Prone Position: A Case Report
Authors: Gautam Samaj , Bhusal Suzit , Chaudhary Ashlesha , Shrestha Reshika , Rijal Badri , Darjee Prakash , Lama Surya Bajra
Published: June 2024

Visual loss following a spine surgery in a prone position is a disastrous and irreversible complication. Moreover, the recommended treatment for such visual loss is lacking and the outcome is not so satisfactory. A 38-year-old gentleman developed profound right sided visual loss after an uneventful cervical spine surgery in a prone position that lasted approximately two and half hours. Immediateophthalmic consultation was done and the case was diagnosed as right-sided central retinal artery occlusion. Despite the initiation of vasodilatation, anticoagulation, and adequate fluid infusion, satisfactory improvement was not achieved. Extensive review of pertinent literature highlighted limited efficacy of treatments for postoperative visual loss after prone spinal surgery, further emphasizing the importance of preventive measures as the cornerstone in such procedures.
Značajke
i ključni čimbenici uspješnosti integriranih informacijskih sustava za mala i
srednja poduzeća na hrvatskom tržištu
Authors: Sušac Luka , Bosilj Vukšić Vesna , Milanović Glavan Ljubica
Published: June 2024

Veliki broj malih i srednjih poduzeća i njihova potreba za primjenom integriranih informacijskih sustava izazvala je pažnju akademske zajednice. Interes se očituje u relativno velikom broju istraživanja usmjerenih na analizu ključnih čimbenika uspješnosti uvođenja integriranih informacijskih sustava. Istovremeno, uočen je nedostatak sličnih istraživanja u Republici Hrvatskoj. Cilj ovog članka je utvrditi i analizirati funkcionalnosti i ključne čimbenike uspješnosti integriranih informacijskih sustava za mala i srednja poduzeća na hrvatskom tržištu. U teorijskom dijelu rada sistematizirani su ključni čimbenici uspješnosti uvođenja integriranih informacijskih sustava te su utvrđene njihove značajke iz perspektive funkcionalnosti i iz tehnološke perspektive. U empirijskom dijelu rada istražuju se specifičnosti vezane uz mala i srednja poduzeća u Republici Hrvatskoj, a proveden je u formi fokus grupe. Prema rezultatima fokus grupe o uspješnosti integriranih informacijskih sustava malih i srednjih poduzeća, poseban naglasak stavlja se na kvalitetu sustava i kvalitetu usluga dobavljača. Znanstveni doprinos ogleda se i u sistematizaciji integriranih informacijskih sustava malih i srednjih poduzeća prema njihovim funkcionalnostima na način koji do sada nije bio prepoznat u sličnim istraživanjima. Rezultati empirijskog istraživanja primjenjivi su i u poslovnoj praksi kao pomoć menadžmentu pri odabiru integriranog informacijskog sustava.
НАПРЯМИ АКТИВІЗАЦІЇ ПОЛІТИКИ БЕЗПЕКИ СПОЖИВАННЯ В РУСЛІ МОДЕРНІЗАЦІЇ СИСТЕМИ ЕКОНОМІЧНОЇ БЕЗПЕКИ УКРАЇНИ
Authors: ВІНСКЕВИЧ Олександр , ЛЮБОХИНЕЦЬ Лариса , ПОПЛАВСЬКА Ольга , ГАБАЙ Володимир
Published: June 2024

У дослідженні акцентовано на необхідності імплементації в Україні нових підходів до забезпечення соціальної безпеки, а саме такого інструменту, як безпека споживання. Метою дослідження визначено обґрунтування напрямів активізації політики безпеки споживання в руслі модернізації системи економічної безпеки України. Наведено авторське визначення поняття «безпека споживання» як політики, яка ініціюється державою та реалізується на всіх рівнях (особи, підприємства, громади, регіону, країни), спрямовується на зміни, зрушення, покращення структурних характеристик і співвідношень у системі суспільного відтворення (виробництво → розподіл → обмін → споживання) задля досягнення позитивних ефектів у сфері продовольчої безпеки, якості життя і добробуту суспільства, екології, сталого розвитку, інформаційної безпеки та зміцнення за рахунок цього економічної безпеки держави та її територій. Показано, що на засадах такого підходу політика безпеки споживання (як це підтверджується й досвідом країн ЄС) дозволяє вирішувати такі гострі соціальні та інші проблеми суспільства, як: виробництво і споживання безпечних та якісних для людини товарів і послуг; оптимізація та покращення раціону споживання населенням продукції продовольства; недопущення виробництва, просування та збуту фальсифікату, контрабандної і контрафактної продукції; утилізація залишків продукції та мінімізація забруднення навколишнього природного середовища; екологічно чисті виробництва та сфера споживчих послуг; сталий розвиток територій і т. п. Визначено напрями впливу та зв’язки між реалізацією політики безпеки споживання та зміцненням складових (передусім продовольчої, соціальної, екологічної та інформаційної) і загального стану економічної безпеки держави. Визначено пріоритети політики безпеки споживання на різних рівнях ієрархії управління економікою, реалізація яких дозволить інституціалізувати та забезпечити високу ефективність реалізації політики безпеки споживання і модернізувати за рахунок цього систему економічної безпеки України.
Implementation of Individual Educational Trajectories in University
Authors: Iatsevich O. E. , Speranskaya N. I. , Omelaenko N. V. , Iudashkina V. V. , Shabatura L. N.
Published: June 2024

The significance of the study is determined by the fact that education receives a new round in its development. It is specified by modern trends in the digital world economy, which makes special demands on the human capital development, where higher education institutions play a leading role. The education models using individual educational trajectories are considered one of the most promising at the present stage of society formation, as evidenced by the message of the President of the Russian Federation V.V. Putin and the introduction of a number of amendments to the law on education of the Russian Federation.

The purpose of the study presented by the authors is to describe, analyze and summarize pedagogical  experience  of  IET  implementation  in  higher  educational  institutions.  The  authors  chose  general and  scientific  methods  as  a  methodological  basis:  phenomenological,  sociometric  methods  included pedagogical observation, retrospective and statistical analysis and synthesis. Empirical data are based on the survey result of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd years students (n=117). In spite of the fact that individual educational trajectories are a pedagogical phenomenon, the study can be classified as interdisciplinary, it involves such sciences as psychology, philosophy, and sociology. The IET realization has a number of advantages, at the same time IET is not free from some disadvantages. The problems identified in the course of the study in the implementation of IOT can be minimized, taking into account the recommendations proposed by the authors of the article, which will rationalize and humanize the education-al process. The scientific novelty and practical significance lies in the theoretical and practical significance of the conducted research, which helps understand the IET content and essence in pedagogical practice. The generalized empirical experience can serve a basis for the development of special courses, textbooks, teaching materials and recommendations on the organization of IET in higher education.
Evolution of University Autonomy and Academic Freedom in the Evaluation of University Faculty Members
Authors: Dezhina I. G.
Published: June 2024

The article analyzes the changes that have occurred in university autonomy and academic freedom in the late Soviet and post-Soviet period from the point of view of the faculty members of leading universities and the main influencing factors. The aim is to identify successful Soviet practices from the faculty members’ point of view and to assess the possibilities of their use in the current conditions.

The study is based on in-depth interviews conducted with faculty members of two leading Russian research universities located in Moscow and Tomsk. The majority of the informants had worked at the universities during the Soviet period. The informants expressed their opinions on the degree of succession  of  university  autonomy  and  academic  freedom  in  their  universities,  and  on  the  factors influencing it.

The survey revealed that the Soviet experience is perceived very differently both within and between  universities.  Positive  aspects  of  the  Soviet  experience  include  guaranteed  state  funding  and a well-established system of cooperation with industry based on “economic contracts”. These supported the high status of faculty members. Assessments of the modern period are polar. Some believe that this is the period of a reasonable degree of university autonomy and academic freedom, while others believe that it has been greatly reduced and that state control has increased.

Tracing the changes in university autonomy and academic freedom reveals the importance of di-versification, especially in funding schemes. The direct transfer of Soviet practices is hardly possible.
Application of Learning Analytics in Higher Education: Datasets, Methods and Tools
Authors: Dyulicheva Yu. Yu.
Published: June 2024

The  accumulation  of  big  educational  data  on  the  platforms  of  universities  and  social media  leads  to  the  need  to  develop  tools  for  extracting  regularities  from  educational  data,  which can be used for understanding the behavioral patterns of students and teachers, improve teaching methods  and  the  quality  of  the  educational  process,  as  well  as  form  sound  strategies  and  policies for  universities  development. 

This  article  provides  an  analysis  and  systematization  of  datasets  on available repositories, taking into account the learning analytics problems solved on their basis. In particular, the article notes the predominance of datasets aimed at solving analytical problems at the level of student’s behavior understanding, Datasets aimed at solving analytical problems at the level of understanding the needs of teachers and administrative and managerial staff of universities are practically absent. Meanwhile, the full potential of learning analytics tools can only be revealed by introducing an integrated approach to the analysis of educational data, taking into account the needs of all participants and organizers of the educational process.

This  review  article  discusses  learning  analytics  methods  related  to  the  study  of  social  interaction patterns between students and teachers, and learning analytics tools from the implementation of simple dashboards to complex frameworks that explore various levels of learning analytics. The problems and limitations that prevent learning analytics from realizing its potential in universities are considered. It is noted that universities are generally interested in introducing learning analytics tools that can improve the quality of the educational process by developing strategies for targeted support for individual groups of students, however, teachers treat such initiatives with caution due to a lack of data analysis skills and correct interpretation of analysis results. The novelty of this analytical review is associated with the consideration of learning analytics at different levels of its implementation in the context of approaches to openness, processing and analysis of educational data.

This article will be of interest to developers of learning analytics tools, scientific and pedagogical workers, and administrative and managerial staff of universities from the point of view of forming an idea of the integrity of the university analytics process, taking into account various levels of analytics implementation aimed at understanding the needs and requirements of all participants in the educational process.
The Student’s Subjective Position as a Condition for Success in Mastering a Profession
Authors: Emelyanova I. N. , Teplyakova O. A. , Teplyakov D. O.
Published: June 2024

The  student’s  subjective  position  as  a  system  of  personal  choice  of  a  sustainable behavior  strategy,  which  can  be  traced  in  the  student’s  attitude  to  the  learning  process  and results and connects his educational activities with the prospects of his professional future. The purpose of the study is to identify resources and problems at the learning stage depending on the student’s subjective position. The student’s subjective position is considered through his or her attitude to educational activities, through his or her achievements at the stage of learning a profession and through his or her expression of readiness for professional activity. The study is based on a survey of students from 20 Russian universities. The respondents were 1056 students. The most pronounced position of modern students is pragmatic; it is adhered to by the majority  of  undergraduate  and  graduate  students.  The  most  successful  students  in  the  educational environment are those who take an intellectually creative position; they have a wide range of achievements, they are ready to spend their intellectual resources on learning, have a negative attitude  towards  various  forms  of  imitation  of  learning,  and  are  most  confident  in  their  professional future. Students with a pragmatic subject position are generally successful, can solve problems  that  arise  during  the  learning  process,  and  show  readiness  for  professional  activity. Students with a contemplative position, despite generally successful studies, show uncertainty about their professional future. Students with an imitation subject position are the most problematic group. These students have difficulty coping with educational activities, are problematic, and are poorly oriented toward achievements in other areas of activity. The study proves that the student’s subjective position is a significant factor that influences the process and result of higher education. Based on existing typical subject positions, it is possible and necessary to select means and methods of training that will make it possible to update resources and minimize educational problems.
Clinical Heterogeneity in Alzheimer’s Disease: A Possible New Amnesic Phenotype
Authors: Abbate Carlo , Gallucci Alessia , Trimarchi Pietro Davide , Piacquadio Emanuela , Caramanti Giulia , Parma Anna , Fumagalli Giorgio Giulio , Inglese Silvia , Parisi Paola Maria Rita , Tartarone Federica , Giunco Fabrizio
Published: June 2024

We rediscovered a phenotype of AD known in the early 1900s as presbyophrenia, but then forgotten, and renamed as confabulation-misidentification phenotype. The phenotype includes diencephalic amnesia whose prototype is Korsakoff syndrome. The main features are anterograde and retrograde amnesia with marked disorientation and confabulation, executive impairments, reduced insight and attention deficits, misidentification, minor hallucination and other delusions, behavioral disturbances, and early anxiety. In this article, we summarize what we have discovered about the new phenotype and what is still missing to confirm this diencephalic variant of AD.
Association of Cerebral Hypoperfusion and Poor Collaterals with Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Severe Vertebrobasilar Artery Stenosis
Authors: Zhang Weiyi , Fu Weilun , Zhang Yumei
Published: June 2024

Background:

Effect of stenosis of vertebrobasilar artery (VBA) on cognitive function is elusive.

Objective:

To investigate association of cerebral hypoperfusion and poor collaterals with vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) in severe VBA stenosis patients.

Methods:

We consecutively enrolled patients with severe VBA stenosis confirmed by digital subtraction angiography who underwent computed tomographic perfusion (CTP) and cognitive assessments. Patients were divided into poor or good collaterals groups according to the collateral circulation status, and were grouped into different perfusion groups according to CTP. Cognitive function was measured by Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Clock Drawing Test, Stroop Color Word Test, Trail Making Test, Digital Span Test, Auditory Verbal Learning Test, and Boston Naming Test scales. The association of cerebral perfusion and collaterals with VCI were explored.

Results:

Among 88 eligible patients, VCI occurred in 51 (57.9%) patients experienced. Poor collateral was present in 73 (83.0%) patients, and hypoperfusion in 64 (72.7%). Compared with normal perfusion patients, the odds ratio with 95% confidence interval for VCI was 12.5 (3.7–42.4) for overall hypoperfusion, 31.0 (7.1–135.5) for multiple site hypoperfusion, 3.3 (1.0–10.5) for poor collaterals, and 0.1 (0–0.6) for presence of posterior communicating artery (PcoA) compensated for posterior cerebral artery (PCA) and basilar artery (BA). Additionally, decreased scores of cognitive function tests occurred in patients with decompensated perfusion or poor collaterals.

Conclusions:

Hypoperfusion and poor collaterals were positively associated with cognitive impairment in patients with severe VBA. However, PcoA compensated for the PCA and BA had a protective role in cognitive impairment development.
An Investigation of the Inflammatory Landscape in the Brain and Bone Marrow of the APP/PS1 Mouse
Authors: Chittimalli Kishore , Adkins Stephen , Arora Sanjay , Singh Jagdish , Jarajapu Yagna P.R.
Published: June 2024

Background:

The APP/PS1 mouse model recapitulates pathology of human Alzheimer’s disease (AD). While amyloid-β peptide deposition and neurodegeneration are features of AD, the pathology may involve inflammation and impaired vascular regeneration.

Objective:

This study evaluated inflammatory environments in the brain and bone marrow (BM), and the impact on brain microvascular density.

Methods:

BM and frontal cortex from male nine-month-old APP/PS1 or the control C57Bl6/j mice were studied. Vascular density and inflammatory cells were evaluated in the sections of frontal cortex by immunohistochemistry. Different subsets of hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (BM) and monocyte-macrophages were characterized by flow cytometry and by clonogenic assays. Myelopoietic or inflammatory factors were evaluated by real-time RT-PCR or by western blotting.

Results:

CD34+ or CD31+ vascular structures were lower ( p < 0.01, n = 6) in the frontal cortex that was associated with decreased number of Lin−Sca-1+cKit+ vasculogenic progenitor cells in the BM and circulation ( p < 0.02, n = 6) compared to the control. Multipotent progenitor cells MPP4, common lymphoid, common myeloid and myeloid progenitor cells were higher in the APP/PS1-BM compared to the control, which agreed with increased numbers of monocytes and pro-inflammatory macrophages. The expression of pro-myelopoietic factors and alarmins was higher in the APP/PS1 BM-HSPCs or in the BM-supernatants compared to the control. Frontal cortices of APP/PS1 mice showed higher number of pro-inflammatory macrophages (CD11b+F4/80+ or CD80+) and microglia (OX42+Iba1+).

Conclusions:

These findings show that AD pathology in APP/PS1 mice is associated with upregulated myelopoiesis, which contributes to the brain inflammation and decreased vascularity.
Edge computing in IoT for smart healthcare
Authors: Yaraziz Mahdi Safaei , Sohrabi Safa Nader , Azad Muhammad Ajmal
Published: June 2024

The rapid advances in the Internet of Things (IoT) and the increment of its users have opened a door to put into service IoT in healthcare, known as the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), which consists of cloud, fog, and edge computing. IoMT has shown to be a flexible framework to remove traditional healthcare limits through utilizing technology/techniques and innovative digital devices to monitor patients’ conditions and to address medical service problems such as inaccuracy and long response time. It also could be helpful within critical and unexpected circumstances like epidemic diseases. Fortunately, some methods, including Edge Computing, were introduced to improve the healthcare system, make it more effective and solve problems. In this work, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was used to study Edge Computing solutions in healthcare, evaluate efficient therapeutic approaches, and demonstrate key factors that have not been considered in previous studies.
A multi-DL fuzzy approach to image recognition for a real-time traffic alert system
Authors: Muñoz Andrés , Martínez-España Raquel , Guerrero-Contreras Gabriel , Balderas-Díaz Sara , Arcas-Túnez Francisco , Bueno-Crespo Andrés
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a novel Multi-DL Fuzzy Approach aimed at performing image recognition in the development of a real-time traffic alert system, addressing the problem of traffic congestion and related incidents. Traditional monitoring by road operators predominantly relies on fixed location cameras, yielding limited and sometimes ambiguous information. This study proposes leveraging Twitter (now known as ‘X’) as a more comprehensive data source alongside employing fuzzy techniques with Deep Learning (DL) neural networks such as CNN, VGG16, and Xception to analyze and classify traffic images. The innovative integration of these technologies augments the precision in categorizing varying traffic conditions, namely fluid and dense traffic, accidents and fires. Thus, this proposal mitigates the ambiguities prevalent in traffic image interpretation, and reduces the dependency on static data sources. The proposed models showed improved results by combining information from the DL models, elevating accuracy from 84% in crisp classification to 90% utilizing fuzzy information.
Generalized Chern–Simons–Schrödinger system with critical exponential growth: The zero-mass case
Authors: Shen Liejun , Squassina Marco
Published: June 2024

We consider the existence of ground state solutions for a class of zero-mass Chern–Simons–Schrödinger systems − Δ u + A 0 u + ∑ j = 1 2 A j 2 u = f ( u ) − a ( x ) | u | p − 2 u , ∂ 1 A 2 − ∂ 2 A 1 = − 1 2 | u | 2 , ∂ 1 A 1 + ∂ 2 A 2 = 0 , ∂ 1 A 0 = A 2 | u | 2 , ∂ 2 A 0 = − A 1 | u | 2 , where a : R 2 → R + is an external potential, p ∈ ( 1 , 2 ) and f ∈ C ( R ) denotes the nonlinearity that fulfills the critical exponential growth in the Trudinger–Moser sense at infinity. By introducing an improvement of the version of Trudinger–Moser inequality approached in (J. Differential Equations 393 (2024) 204–237), we are able to investigate the existence of positive ground state solutions for the given system using variational method.
Lectins as a promising therapeutic agent for breast cancer: A review
Authors: Singh Keerti , Agrawal Lokita , Gupta Rhea , Singh Divyam , Kathpalia Meghavi , Kaur Navkiran
Published: June 2024

Efficient treatment of cancer has been a subject of research by scientists for many years. Current treatments for cancer, such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy and surgery have been used in traditional combination therapy, but they have major setbacks like non-specificity, non-responsiveness in certain cancer types towards treatment, tumor recurrence, etc. Epidemiological data has shown that breast cancer accounts for 14% of cancer cases occurring in Indian women. In recent years, scientists have started to focus on the use of natural compounds like lectins obtained from various sources to counter the side effects of traditional therapy. Lectins like Sambucus nigra Agglutinin, Maackia amurensis lectin, Okra lectins, Haliclona caerulea lectin, Sclerotium rolfsii lectin, etc., have been discovered to have both diagnostic and therapeutic potential for breast cancer patients. Lectins have been found to have inhibitory effects on various cancer cell activities such as neo-angiogenesis, causing cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase, and inducing apoptosis. The major idea behind the use of lectins in cancer diagnostics and therapeutics is their capability to bind to glycosylated proteins that are expressed on the cell surface. This review focuses on an exploration of the roles of post-translational modification in cancer cells, especially glycosylation, and the potential of lectins in cancer diagnosis and therapeutics.
Effectiveness of intradiscal ozone injections for treating pain following herniated lumbar disc: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chang Min Cheol , Choo Yoo Jin , Denis Isabelle , Mares Christopher , Majdalani Carl , Yang Seoyon
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND: Low back pain and sciatica caused by herniated lumbar discs (HLDs) are common complaints among patients visiting pain clinics. Among the various therapeutic methods, intradiscal ozone injections have emerged as an effective alternative or additional treatment option for HLDs. OBJECTIVE: This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effectiveness of intradiscal ozone injections in the treatment of HLDs. METHODS: We searched the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Scopus databases for relevant studies published until January 25, 2024. We included studies that investigated the efficacy of intradiscal ozone injections in patients with HLDs. We evaluated the methodological quality of individual studies using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. RESULTS: At ⩾ 6 months after treatment, the therapeutic effect of intradiscal ozone injections in patients with HLDs was greater than that of steroid injections (treatment success rate, 6 months: odds ratio = 3.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] [2.44, 6.39], P< 0.01) or conventional medications (changes in the Visual Analog Scale [VAS], 6 months: standardized mean difference [SMD] = 1.65, 95% CI [1.08, 2.22], P< 0.01; 12 months: SMD = 1.52, 95% CI [0.96, 2.08], P< 0.01) but similar to that of microdiscectomy (changes in VAS, 18 months: SMD =-0.05, 95% CI [-0.67, 0.57], P= 0.87). At < 6 months after treatment, the reduction in the VAS score after intradiscal ozone injections was higher than that after steroid injections (changes in VAS, 1 month: SMD = 2.53, 95% CI [1.84, 3.21], P< 0.01). CONCLUSION: Intradiscal ozone injections may be a useful therapeutic tool in patients with HLDs. Compared with other conventional treatment methods such as steroid injections and oral medications, intradiscal ozone injection has great long-term (⩾ 6 months) effectiveness.
Survey on association rule analysis: Exploration using mining analysis
Authors: Gangaramani Drishti , Londhe Renuka
Published: June 2024

Associative rule mining is a technique for discovering common patterns and correlations in data sets from different databases, including relational, transactional and other types of data repositories, such as relational databases. Different types of patterns exist in data mining such as frequent patterns, extended patterns, regular patterns etc. Many searches have focused on finding the frequent patterns and very little work has been carried out on negative or rare patterns. It has also been observed that only those items which are positively correlated(frequent) are been executed by various algorithms but very less attention is been given to negatively correlated items. Negatively correlated items also called infrequent items are the items which negate with each other. The items which do not satisfy the minimum threshold value generally are always been ignored by many researchers. Mining of Negative association helps in business such as for customer segmentation, in risk management as well as in medical field. So the main aim of writing this paper is to provide a short overview of various research issues involved in finding out positive and negative associations.
Mapping the green human resource management practices: A systematic scoping review and its implications for employees’ well-being
Authors: Kamboj Jyoti , A Eronimus
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND: Human Resource Management (HRM) has emerged as a crucial facet of organizational success, particularly in balancing profitability and environmental sustainability. The growing environmental concerns are reshaping HRM, giving rise to Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) practices. However, there is a critical need to understand the evolution and impact of GHRM.

OBJECTIVE: This literature review explores the role of GHRM in fostering sustainable practices, employee well-being, and engagement within organizations. It aims to provide the groundwork for future research.

METHODS: This study examined 204 selected journal articles from Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar following PRISMA guidelines. The article underwent rigorous screening, data extraction, and analysis using NVivo 14 software.

RESULTS: The literature review explored the theoretical underpinnings of GHRM practices. Scoping review provided insights into the depth of available literature, mapping revealed research gaps and thematic clusters. However, systematic review highlights GHRM’s role in organisational sustainability and employee well-being.

CONCLUSIONS: GHRM emerges as a crucial factor in fostering environmental capabilities and steering the transition from traditional HR practices to eco-friendly approaches, paving the way for new paradigms. Moreover, practitioners must extend their considerations beyond routine organizational HR practices to enhance sustainable HR practices and employees’ well-being.
A review on learning based image reflection removal algorithms
Authors: Wang Xin , Zhang Yong , Xu Junfeng , Gao Jun
Published: June 2024

Capturing images through semi-reflective surfaces, such as glass windows and transparent enclosures, often leads to a reduction in visual quality and can adversely affect the performance of computer vision algorithms. As a result, image reflection removal has garnered significant attention among computer vision researchers. With the growing application of deep learning methods in various computer vision tasks, such as super-resolution, inpainting, and denoising, convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have become an increasingly popular choice for image reflection removal. The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive review of learning-based algorithms designed for image reflection removal. Firstly, we provide an overview of the key terminology and essential background concepts in this field. Next, we examine various datasets and data synthesis methods to assist researchers in selecting the most suitable options for their specific needs and targets. We then review existing methods with qualitative and quantitative results, highlighting their contributions and significance in this field. Finally, some considerations about challenges and future scope in image reflection removal techniques are discussed.
Associations Between Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test and Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers in Amnestic Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Giuffrè Guido Maria , Quaranta Davide , Citro Salvatore , Morganti Tommaso Giuseppe , Martellacci Noemi , Vita Maria Gabriella , Rossini Paolo Maria , Calabresi Paolo , Marra Camillo
Published: June 2024

Background: The Free and Cued Selective Reminding Test (FCSRT), assessing verbal episodic memory with controlled learning and semantic cueing, has been recommended for detecting the genuine encoding and storage deficits characterizing AD-related memory disorders. Objective: The present study aims at investigating the ability of FCSRT in predicting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) evidence of amyloid-β positivity in subjects with amnestic mild cognitive impairment (aMCI) and exploring its associations with amyloidopathy, tauopathy and neurodegeneration biomarkers. Methods: 120 aMCI subjects underwent comprehensive neurological and neuropsychological examinations, including the FCSRT assessment, and CSF collection; CSF Aβ42/40 ratio, p-tau181, and total-tau quantification were conducted by an automated CLEIA method on Lumipulse G1200. Based on the Aβ42/40 ratio value, subjects were classified as either A+ or A–. Results: All FCSRT subitem scores were significantly lower in A+ group and significantly predicted the amyloid-β status, with Immediate Total Recall (ITR) being the best predictor. No significant correlations were found between FCSRT and CSF biomarkers in the A– aMCI group, while in the A+ aMCI group, all FCSRT subitem scores were negatively correlated with CSF p-tau181 and total-tau, but not with the Aβ42/40 ratio. Conclusions: FCSRT confirms its validity as a tool for the diagnosis of AD, being able to predict the presence of amyloid-β deposition with high specificity. The associations between FCSRT subitem scores and CSF p-tau-181 and total-tau levels in aMCI due to AD could further encourage the clinical use of this simple and cost-effective test in the evaluation of individuals with aMCI.
Evaluating Passive Housing Strategies in Extreme Climates: A Case Study of Dubai Using PHPP and IESVE Models
Authors: Mahgoub Mohamed , Kumar Pankaj
Published: June 2024

The increasing global emphasis on sustainable architecture necessitates precise building energy modeling, especially in regions marked by extreme climates. The focus of this study is to evaluate the potential and practicality of passive housing strategies in climates similar to Dubai. In this study, we employed the Passive House Planning Package (PHPP) to create a meticulous representation of the Dubai environmental conditions, ensuring that detailed architectural elements and HVAC systems were captured to provide the most energy-efficient architecture. To validate the accuracy of the model, consumption data from 2020 was used as a benchmark, reflecting the observed hot water and electricity consumption. Additionally, we developed a linear state-space model using IES Virtual Environment software (IESVE) to capture the dynamic thermal behaviour of the proposed building. We assessed the merits of the Passivhaus model in harsh climates and compared them with those of various space calculation methodologies. The model showed significant congruence with the actual consumption data and external temperature metrics for 2020. Furthermore, the state-space model, along with its various state variables, inputs, and outputs, aligned well with the real-world observations. The results indicate that the Passivhaus model possesses significant potential to reduce carbon emissions, highlighted by a detected 10% variance in energy consumption during the simulated summer peak. Differences in space calculation methodologies were also determined, emphasising the necessity of context-driven architectural evaluation. This study provides invaluable insights into the energy dynamics of contemporary buildings and emphasises the transformative potential of passive housing in extreme climates.
Enhancing Data Analytics in Environmental Sensing Through Cloud IoT Integration
Authors: Verma Rohan , Taneja Harsh , Singh Kiran Deep , Singh Prabh Deep
Published: June 2024

Transformational advances in environmental sensing have been made possible by the convergence of Cloud Computing and the Internet of Things (IoT). The potential for these technologies is to work together and improve environmental monitoring data analytics. Integrating IoT in the cloud creates a robust environment for advanced analytics by overcoming previous hurdles in data granularity, real-time monitoring, and geographical coverage. These developments aren’t without their own set of difficulties, however, including data security, interoperability, and ethical concerns. This paper explores integrating Cloud IoT with environmental sensing. The paper addresses these issues and emphasises the need to establish ethical data-gathering methods, implement standardised communication protocols, and address privacy concerns. The study concludes by examining the challenges, concerns, and potential of integrating Cloud IoT. The integration of Cloud Computing and IoT not only transforms environmental sensing but also provides a solid foundation for collaborative research, data-driven decision-making, and environmentally conscious management.
Impact of Ocean Acidification on Plankton – A Short Review
Authors: Sharma Ishita , Das Dipanwita , Mukherjee Sayantika , Saha Amrita
Published: June 2024

“Ocean acidification” (OA) is a result of global warming, which describes a long-term drop in the pH of the ocean, mostly due to the ocean’s absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. Plankton, a diverse collection of tiny organisms, are decisive in supporting marine and freshwater food webs living at and beneath the surface of lakes, rivers, ponds, and oceans across the planet. Recently this vital community has been severely affected due to ocean acidification, which has forced it to either die or they are migrating significantly as OA intensifies. This review provides a concise overview of the impacts of ocean acidification (OA) and other environmental factors on plankton communities thereby highlighting the necessity of conducting comprehensive assessments to provide insights into the impacts of climate change on marine ecosystems.
Durability of Response with First-Line Combined Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy Compared to Checkpoint Inhibitor with VEGFR-TKI in Advanced Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zaemes Jacob , McDermott David F. , Regan Meredith M. , Atkins Michael B.
Published: June 2024

Over the past several years, four regimens incorporating immune checkpoint inhibitors have become widely used in the front-line setting to treat metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma: nivolumab with ipilimumab, axitinib with pembrolizumab, cabozantinib with nivolumab, and lenvatinib with pembrolizumab. These regimens all demonstrated favorable response rates and survival outcomes compared to sunitinib in phase III trials. As these data have matured, nivolumab with ipilimumab has been most clearly associated with durable long-term disease response and stable survival benefit. Moreover, responses obtained using nivolumab with ipilimumab are more likely to persist after treatment discontinuation compared to regimens containing a VEGFR-TKI. These outcomes underline the value of using nivolumab with ipilimumab to pursue durable response in patients with advanced clear cell renal cell carcinoma.
Synthesis, crystal structure, characterization and corrosion inhibition studies of a strontium coordination polymer with tartaric acid
Authors: Mathew Binimol Mary , Suma S. , Sudarsanakumar M.R. , Anitha L. , Kumar Asha S. , Jisha K.R.
Published: June 2024

The reaction of anhydrous strontium chloride with the proton transfer compound 1-H-Imidazolium Hydrogen- meso-tartrate in water resulted in the formation of polymeric tartrate complex of strontium which is characterised by SXRD, IR, UV-Visible and TG/DTG analyses. The single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis reveals that each strontium atom is eight coordinate with distorted dodecahedral arrangement. The two metal fragments are linked through central four-membered Sr2O2 ring and there is no imidazole moiety in the complex. The compound displays a rare crystallographic feature where a shared hydrogen atom is located between two carboxylic groups. This unusual arrangement of hydrogen atom with an occupancy factor 0.5, located in between two carboxylate groups balances the total charge of the structure. FT- IR study reveals the bidentate coordination mode of the ligand. The thermal behaviour of the compound was studied using TG/DTG analysis. Corrosion inhibition property of the title compound on mild steel in 1.0M HCl has been investigated using weight loss method. The formation of protective film on the mild steel surface is confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscopy images. The inhibition efficiency increases with increase in concentration of inhibitor.
Diagnostic value of contrast-enhanced ultrasound in judging the survival of graft after heteroautoplasty for secondary hyperparathyroidism
Authors: He Hui , Yan Shuai , Chen Dan-Dan , Guo Cong , Xi Zeng-Hui
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND: Secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) is one of the common complications of end-stage renal disease-uremia, and is mainly manifested as parathyroid hyperplasia and abnormal secretion of parathyroid hormone (PTH). OBJECTIVE: To investigate the value and advantages of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in evaluating the survival of autografts after parathyroidectomy + parathyroid autotransplantation. METHODS: In this study, 125 patients with renal failure due to polycystic kidney disease, chronic nephritis, diabetic nephropathy, lupus nephritis, and atherosclerotic nephropathy were enrolled as the participants and each of them had 4 secondary hyperactive parathyroid glands and underwent parathyroid autotransplantation. One parathyroid gland was taken from each patient and equally divided into 4 parts and placed in the subcutaneous fat of one forearm for transplantation. CEUS was performed 14 days after the transplantation to observe the micro blood supply of the graft and assess the survival and secretory function of the transplanted parathyroid. The grafts were divided into the partial survival group and the total survival group based on the enhancement characteristics. The survival of the grafts was determined by comparing the parathyroid hormone level in bilateral elbow cephalic veins 1 month after surgery. RESULTS: Among the 125 patients, 112 had linear or punctate enhancement of 2–4 parathyroid glands 14 days after surgery, and 13 patients had linear or punctate enhancement of 0–1 parathyroid gland. There were statistically significant differences in the perfusion pattern, enhancement uniformity, and parathyroid hormone levels in the cephalic veins at the elbow on both the graft and non-graft sides among all groups (P< 0.05). CONCLUSION: Compared to the detection of the difference in the parathyroid hormone level in the cephalic vein of bilateral elbows 1 month after surgery, CEUS can reflect the parathyroid survival after transplantation more quickly and accurately 2 weeks later, and provide a more rapid and agile non-invasive clinical diagnosis method.
Using markerless motion capture and musculoskeletal models: An evaluation of joint kinematics
Authors: Auer Simon , Süß Franz , Dendorfer Sebastian
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND: This study presents a comprehensive comparison between a marker-based motion capture system (MMC) and a video-based motion capture system (VMC) in the context of kinematic analysis using musculoskeletal models. OBJECTIVE: Focusing on joint angles, the study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of VMC as a viable alternative for biomechanical research. METHODS: Eighteen healthy subjects performed isolated movements with 17 joint degrees of freedom, and their kinematic data were collected using both an MMC and a VMC setup. The kinematic data were entered into the AnyBody Modelling System, which enables the calculation of joint angles. The mean absolute error (MAE) was calculated to quantify the deviations between the two systems. RESULTS: The results showed good agreement between VMC and MMC at several joint angles. In particular, the shoulder, hip and knee joints showed small deviations in kinematics with MAE values of 4.8∘, 6.8∘ and 3.5∘, respectively. However, the study revealed problems in tracking hand and elbow movements, resulting in higher MAE values of 13.7∘ and 27.7∘. Deviations were also higher for head and thoracic movements. CONCLUSION: Overall, VMC showed promising results for lower body and shoulder kinematics. However, the tracking of the wrist and pelvis still needs to be refined. The research results provide a basis for further investigations that promote the fusion of VMC and musculoskeletal models.