bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-Term Traffic Flow Prediction with Structure-Optimized Deep Belief Network
Authors: Liu Yong
Published: May 2022

This paper proposes a structure-optimized deep belief network method for short-term traffic flow forecast, which is used to solve the problems of too simple training data in deep learning short-term traffic flow forecast and random selection of model structure construction parameters. We constructed a deep belief network short-term traffic flow forecast model that can simultaneously train three types of traffic data related to the predicted node traffic volume, enhance the spatiotemporal correlation of predictions, and overcome the shortcomings of too single training data. At the same time, we optimize the short-term traffic flow prediction model structure of the deep belief network; and use the T-PSO algorithm to optimize the hidden layer structure parameters of the prediction model. It can avoid the decrease in the practicability of the model caused by the random selection of the model structure construction parameters. The experimental results show that the method of structure-optimized deep belief network is feasible and effective, and the prediction accuracy is better than the classic deep learning prediction model.
Financial crisis: Non-monetary factors influencing Employee performance at banking sectors
Authors: Hamza Pshdar Abdalla , Othman Rizhin Nuree , Qader Khowanas Saeed , Anwer Sanarya Adnan , Hamad Hawkar Anwar , Gardi Bayar , Ibrahim Hamin Khasrow
Published: May 2022

Money and credit fluctuations, financial crises, and governmental responses have come into the spotlight as a result of the crisis that lasted from 2014 to 2018. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the non-financial elements that have an effect on employee performance in the Kurdistan region of Iraq in general and in Erbil in particular. In spite of this, the researcher came up with five assumptions about study that needed to be evaluated and quantified in order to assess how well employees performed amid financial crises. It was found that job security had the highest value, which indicates that job security has the most powerful and positive association with employee performance during financial crisis. On the other hand, job enrichment was found to be the least powerful factor that influences and is related to employee performance during financial crisis in the Kurdistan region of Iraq. The researcher used simple regression analysis to measure the developed research hypotheses.6
El ATC del Genoma. Estrategias Didácticas de Biología Molecular para el Bachillerato Universitario
Authors:   Dirección General del Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades, Bautista Acevedo Marco Antonio , Centeno Cruz Federico ,   Dirección General del Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades, Martínez Ortiz Leticia ,   Dirección General del Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades, Mejía García Martha Elvira ,   Dirección General del Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades, Hernández Carbajal Luz Angélica ,   Dirección General del Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades, Ramírez Aguilar Eva Cristina ,   Dirección General del Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades, Bernal Enriquez Óscar ,   Dirección General del Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades, Luna Román Celso Miguel ,   Dirección General del Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades, Serrano Reyes Gabriela ,   Dirección General del Colegio de Ciencias y Humanidades
Published: May 2022

El presente paquete didáctico es el conjunto estructurado de materiales necesarios para realizar actividades experimentales extracurriculares, que posibilitan completar y reforzar los contenidos del subtema “Manipulación genética” de la Tercera Unidad de Biología I y del subtema “Evidencias moleculares de la evolución” de la Primera Unidad de Biología II del Programa de Estudios Actualizados de Biología I y II (2016).
Instagram como recurso en la didáctica de lenguas y culturas
Authors: Ojinaga Imelda A.
Published: May 2022

Como consecuencia de la evolución tecnológica en la que nos encontramos sumergidos, incorporamos cada vez más la tecnología al quehacer didáctico. En los últimos meses, muchos docentes se familiarizaron con el uso de diferentes plataformas interactivas, podcast y páginas web. Sin embargo, existen herramientas que forman parte de la cotidianidad de los alumnos y que podemos aprovechar para lograr los objetivos educativos en clase. El siguiente artículo tiene como objetivo evidenciar que el uso de la red social Instagram como herramienta de enseñanza en las clases de lenguas extranjeras es efectivo y útil. La dinámica de las redes sociales crea un ambiente colaborativo óptimo para la adquisición de conocimientos, principalmente de cultura y lenguaje. Como preámbulo a las técnicas utilizadas en clase de lengua en la Facultad de Filosofía y Letras de la Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), se retoman dos estudios de universidades extranjeras, donde parecería no haber un contexto en común, y que, sin embargo, arrojan resultados similares y recomiendan el uso de Instagram en clase, ya que demostró ser una herramienta capaz de ayudar a mejorar la motivación, la adquisición de la lengua y el progreso lingüístico. Finalmente se muestran algunas técnicas y actividades llevadas a la práctica en el nuevo contexto virtual en el que surge y se desarrolla la dinámica alumno-docente en la actualidad. Cada una de las actividades se explica y justifica; del mismo modo, se presentan los resultados y los cambios que el uso de la red social produjo en los alumnos de segundo semestre de la Licenciatura en Lengua y Literaturas Modernas (Letras Italianas) de la institución mencionada.
El libro y la posibilidad del acontecimiento estético
Authors: Vila Maior Dionísio
Published: May 2022

En el escenario civilizatorio contemporáneo, muy basado en la cultura de lo inmediato, a menudo en detrimento de la dimensión humana y humanista, se hace imprescindible proporcionar hábitos y lecturas que puedan contribuir de alguna manera a la conservación, clarificación, difusión y estructuración de otra memoria, marcada por los hábitos de lectura y escritura, por la conciencia del libro como “fuente de vitalidad del espíritu” (como decía George Steiner), aunque sea a costa del multivocalismo hipertextual. Sabiendo que ni la literatura, ni los comportamientos sociales son fenómenos estáticos —y que la lengua, como decía Mijaíl Bajtín, “vit et évolue historiquement dans la communication verbale concrète, non dans le système linguistique abstrait des formes de la langue, non plus que dans le psychisme individuel des locuteurs” (Bajtín, 1977: 137; cursivas en original)—, intentaré abordar, entre otras cuestiones anexas, la necesidad de otorgar confianza a las Humanidades (y, en el caso concreto, a la literatura); la necesidad (absoluta) del hábito de la escritura y la lectura del texto literario, en un universo cada vez más marcado por las nuevas tecnologías de la información y la comunicación que colorearán polifónicamente una cultura digital con una interfaz dominada por el poder cibercultural e hipertextual de la escritura y la lectura web.
Digital Twin Technology Transforming Modern Healthcare Industry
Authors: Parate Sakshi , Bhivgade Aniket , Bharati Dr. Manisha
Published: May 2022

Abstract: Digital Twin Technology is an emerging concept that has captured the attention of both industry and academics in recent years. The advancement in industry 4.0 context requires strong and reliable anomaly detection techniques. The Digital Twin is expressed in a variety of ways, but it is best described as the seamless integration of data between a physical and virtual system in any state. Realistic models of complex equipment are now possible because to advances in Digital Twin technology. AI, IoT, and Digital Twins today has huge spectrum for use, and supported by various aiding technologies, although we still have a long way to go. A review of recent studies on Digital Twins is conducted, resulting in a categorical review. The study assesses the enabling technologies, difficulties, and ongoing research in the field of Digital Twins particularly in healthcare domain.
THE ANALYSIS OF ROUTINE RISK MINIMIZATION MEASURES OF THE USE OF MEDICINAL PRODUCTS PRODUCED BY RUE «BELMEDPREPARATY» ON THE TERRITORY OF THE REPUBLIC OF BELARUS
Authors:   RUE «Belmedpreparaty», Marchenkov N.V. , Khutkina H.A. ,   Vitebsk State Order of Peoples' Friendship Medical University, Diyachkova L.V. ,   RUE «Belmedpreparaty»
Published: May 2022

Today, it is of great importance to timely inform health care professionals and patients about the risks associated with the use of medicinal products (MP) in order to minimize the development of undesirable effects of pharmacotherapy. The easiest way to convey this information to the end-user is to make changes in the general characteristics of a medicinal preparation (SmPC) and the instruction for medical use (IFU)/package leaflet (PL). To maintain up-to-date information in the SmPC and IFU/PL, it is necessary to constantly monitor new information on the efficacy and safety of medicinal products. The article presents data on the implementation of routine risk minimization measures associated with the discovery of new and relevant information on safety in relation to MP produced by RUE «Belmedpreparaty» in 2018-2020. At the moment, the company produces a wide range of medicines, therefore, the implementation of constant monitoring of such information for further updating of information about the drug is an important link in the work of the pharmacovigilance department.
COMPARISON OF THE RESULTS OF MORPHOLOGICAL EXAMINATION AT DIFFERENT PERIODS OF LASER THERAPY INTEGRATION INTO COMPLEX TREATMENT FOR EXPERIMENTAL PERIOSTITIS
Authors:   Belarusian State Medical University, Tserakhava T.N. , Pohodenko-Chudakova I.O. ,   Belarusian State Medical University, Nijiati N. ,   Belarusian State Medical University, Yudina O.A. ,   Belarusian State Medical University
Published: May 2022

Objectives. To carry out a comparative assessment of the results of morphometric study of infectious and inflammatory focus and the density of vessels of the microcirculatory bed at different periods of laser radiation application in the postoperative treatment for experimental periostitis of the jaws. Material and methods. The experiment was performed on 56 rabbits. 54 of them had simulated acute purulent periostitis (APP) of the lower jaw. All the animals were divided into the following series. Series 1 - 12 rabbits which, after the creation of the APP model, were treated with laser therapy on the 1st, the 3rd and the 5th days after surgery. Series 2 - 16 rabbits which underwent laser therapy treatment on the 3rd, the 5th and the 7th days after surgery. Series 3 (control) - 26 rabbits which were not treated after the creation of the APP model. Series 4 - 2 animals whose jaw fragments were taken as a standard. Results. In all series 1 micropreparations, after completing the experiment the changes can be characterized as minimally residual inflammatory ones. Complex treatment of periostitis, including laser treatment, applied from the first day of the postoperative period, is effective for relieving infectious inflammation and creating optimal conditions for tissue regeneration. Conclusions. Despite the similarity of the schemes of complex postoperative treatment for experimental periostitis using the effect of laser on the focus of inflammation in series 1 and 2, it has been found that its positive influence is due to a greater degree of complementarity when used as early as possible after surgery.
The Effectivity of Flavonoid Content Which Contained in “Dark Chocolate” with Decreased Blood Pressure in Hypertension Without Complication Patients at Tresna Werdha Public Center in 2017
Authors: Tanggo Christian Ronald
Published: May 2022

As the times progressed, lifestyle and food pattern alterations have taken place in society these days. Such things cause the health issues, such as hypertension. Research recently declared “Dark Chocolate” could be one of the blood pressure-lowering food alternatives. This research aims to find out if “Dark Chocolate" could lower blood pressure in hypertension without complications in patients. The research method is a descriptive quantitative study, and the research has been done on 30 women 80-97 years old elderly at Tresna Werdha Public Center, Cibubur. The blood pressure was measured by calculating the systolic and diastolic blood pressure in mmHg before and after consuming “Dark Chocolate”. Data analysis was using the SPSS statistic test. The result of the research is that the blood pressure in 15 respondents who consumed “Dark Chocolate” began to decrease on the third day (p<0,05). Finally, it is concluded that "Dark Chocolate” could lower blood pressure.

Keywords: “Dark Chocolate”, blood pressure
Therapeutic and Pharmacological Efficacy of Achyranthes aspera Linn.: An Updated Review
Authors: Raju Senthil Kumar , Kumar Shridharshini , Sekar Praveen , Murugesan Maruthamuthu , Karthikeyan Mohanapriya , Elampulakkadu Anjana , Arthanari Mythili
Published: May 2022

Achyranthes aspera is an erect perennial herb that comes under the family Amaranthaceae. The plant and its parts are traditionally used to cure several diseases such as renal dropsy, hemorrhoids, dysentery, asthma, cough, stomach ache, skin eruptions, diarrhea, dysentery, stimulating labor pain, nose-bleeding, snake-bites, nose bleeding and dilating blood vessels. Secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, steroids, essential oil and fatty acids play a significant role in exhibiting increased bioactivity against a variety of diseases. Particularly, the presence of secondary metabolites including achyranthine, ecdysterone, oleanolic acid, spinasterol, apigenin, achyrantheric acid, ursolic acid, corrosolic acid, betaine are playing an important role in producing the potent pharmacological actions. A. aspera is widely used as purgative, laxative, astringent, diuretic and also as digestive. This review is particularly focused on the pharmacological and therapeutic potential of A. aspera and critically analyse the bioactivities such as antioxidant, antibacterial, tuberculocidal, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer, anti-diabetic, anti-hyperlipidaemic, anti-diuretic, anti-obesity, anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory, periodontitis, cerebro-protective, antiepileptic, anti-depressant, anti-parkinson, anxiolytic, bronchodilator, hepato-protective, haemorrhoids, reproductive and anti-venom activity along with the toxicity studies.

Keywords: Achyranthes aspera, Amaranthaceae, phytoconstituents, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, biological activity.
Rheological equations of concrete state and relaxation of stress
Authors: Larionov Evgeny A. , Rynkovskaya Marina I. , Grinko Elena A.
Published: May 2022

Some approaches to the derivation of rheological equations of the mechanical state of concrete are considered and the principle of superposition of fraction deformations is justified in a nonlinear statement. In linear creep theory, this principle is known as L. Boltzmann’s superposition principle of fraction creep deformations. The concept of the strength structure of the constructive material is the basis for substantiating the statements given in this work. The statistical distribution of the strength of the fractions forming a structural element in the union allows the derivation of nonlinear equations of state. At the same time, the so-called structural stresses of fractions that capable to force resistance are considered. The overlay principle of fraction deformations in non-linear statement is justified. This means the modification of L. Boltzmann’s principle of superposition allowing its applicability also under the nonlinear dependence of deformations on stresses. It is established that the integral equation of state, which is nonlinear with respect to calculated stresses, is linear with respect to structural stresses. It is this circumstance that permits its reduction to a simple linear differential equation, which, in particular, simplifies the solution of relaxation problems. These problems are closely related to the calculation of structures for long-term safety.
On the Development of the Scientific Base of Quantum Technologies
Authors: Terekhov A. I.
Published: May 2022

The purpose of the article is to study the development of research in the field of quantum technologies, based on a bibliometric analysis of publications indexed in databases from the Web of Science Core Collection from 1990 to 2020. The global output of publications, the productivity of individual countries and organizations, indicators of international scientific cooperation are considered. The characteristic features of world studies in the field are revealed: a high concentration in the group of leaders, a noticeable participation of corporations and military scientific structures, and growing international cooperation. Considerable attention is paid to the positions of Russia, which towards the end of the period returned to the top ten countries in terms of productivity. The Russian Academy of Sciences is the sixth among the world scientific organizations in the production of publications on quantum technologies for the entire period; Russian scientists actively cooperate with foreign scientists, including those from leading Western countries. The internal landscape is characterized by a significant predominance of the “Center”, where the country’s leading research institutes and universities are located, and the still small research contribution of the Russian commercial sector.
Errors in pediatric death certificates issued in an emergency department
Authors: Park Byeong Ju , Kim Sun Hyu
Published: May 2022

Purpose: Errors in pediatric death certificates (DCs) have been rarely reported. We analyzed the errors in writing the DCs issued in an emergency department (ED).Methods: The DCs issued at the ED to patients aged 18 years or younger were retrospectively analyzed. Their medical records were reviewed by 4 emergency physicians. Major and minor errors in the DCs were defined based on the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems 10th revision guidelines. The DCs were classified into the disease group and the external group by the manner of death, and the errors were compared. Results: Among a total of 87 DCs issued in the ED, 97.5% and 100% were confirmed to contain at least 1 error in the disease (n = 40) and external (n = 47) groups, respectively. The median numbers of errors in the analyzed DCs were 2.0 and 3.0 in the disease and external groups, respectively (P = 0.004). In the disease group, the most frequent major error was reporting only a secondary condition as the underlying cause of death without antecedent causes (6 cases [15.0%]). In the external group, the most frequent major error was writing 2 or more causes in a single line for the cause of death (17 cases [36.2%]). In both groups, the most common minor error was omission of a time interval record for the cause of death (disease, 37 cases [92.5%]; external, 42 cases [89.4%]).Conclusion: Any errors were identified in 98.9% of pediatric DCs issued in the ED, and the total number of errors was larger in the external group.
An empirical study on the effect of education on labor productivity
Authors: Magableh Sohail , Alalawneh Mustafa , Alqalawi Usama
Published: May 2022

This study investigates the effect of education on labor productivity using data from the Jordanian economy. Jordan has the world’s second-highest share of refugees in comparison to its population. This fact outlines the main challenges facing efforts to provide quality education to Jordanian citizens and refugees. This study shed light on the obstacles and challenges facing education in Jordan to serve as a wake-up call for decision-makers. The study employs the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model bounds testing procedure developed by Pesaran, Shin, and Smith (2001), using data ranging from 1984 to 2018. The results showed that in the long run, education has a positive and statistically significant effect on labor productivity. Inversely, in the short run, education has a negative and statistically significant effect on labor productivity. The estimation results indicate that a 1% increase in education in the long run increases labor productivity by 1.15%, and a 1% increase in education in the short run decreases labor productivity by 1.25%. In addition, the study found that both labor share of capital and foreign direct investment (FDI), have a positive and significant effect on labor productivity. The study concluded with several recommendations.
Soret and Dufour Effects on 3-D Rotating Hybrid Nanofluid
Authors: Prathiba Alfunsa , Lakshmi Venkata A.
Published: May 2022

The impact of the Dufour and Soret numbers on a hybrid nanofluid in a
boundary layer area across a spinning sheet is presented in this paper.
The collection of flow governing (PDEs) partial differential equations
was turned into a system of (ODEs) ordinary differential equations,
which are then solved utilising BVP4C code in MATLAB . The impact of the
flow governing parameters on flow properties was analysed and were
presented graphically. The Soret factor influences the thermal
efficiency at the surface, while the Dufour effect reduces the mass
transfer at the surface.
Mathematical modeling of convective diffusive mass transfer in ferro fluids with reference to targeted drug delivery
Authors: N Punith Kumar D , T Sravan Kumar , G Vijaya Kumar A
Published: May 2022

Magnetically targeted drug delivery system is gaining importance over
recent years due to its efficiency and minimum side effects. There are
many techniques proposed for delivering drugs to targeted sites within
the human body. But magnetically targeted drug delivery surpasses
because of its unique character and high efficiency. There are only few
theoretical analyses done by researchers addressing the hydrodynamic
models of magnetic fluids in the blood vessel. This paper presents a
mathematical model on hydrodynamics of the fluid, blood flow and
convective diffusive mass transfer of the species. Here we have tried to
analyze a drug delivery method for delivering drug to a specific site in
the body. For this analysis, we have considered a channel bounded by the
tissue region where the drug is targeted. An exact analysis of unsteady
convective diffusive solute transfer in a channel bounded by tissue
region under the influence of magnetic field.
BRAF inhibition efficacy in drug-refractory epilepsy
Authors: Perez-Somarriba Marta , López Vicente Santa-María , Martinez Ofelia Cruz , Muchart Jordi , Gene Nagore , Hinojosa Jose , Gonzalez Veronica , Madrid Andres Morales La
Published: May 2022

Low-grade gliomas (LGG) are the most frequent pediatric tumors
associated with epilepsy. Molecular sequencing analyses have defined the
genomic landscape of these tumors leading to the use of targeted
therapies, which have proven to be efficacious. Ongoing clinical trials
are testing the incorporation of these drugs, especially in unresectable
LGG that progress after standard treatment. Nevertheless, this strategy
is not extended in the field of tumor-induced epilepsy. We present a
patient with drug-resistant epilepsy secondary to a BRAF V600E-mutated
ganglioglioma treated with dabrafenib who showed a dramatic radiological
and clinical response with marked improvement in her quality of life.
A fatal acute bacterial meningoencephalitis with the highest cerebrospinal fluid white blood cell count ever reported in literature
Authors: Alhodaif Hend , Alotaibi Sultan , Sailh Salih Bin , Almuntashri Makki , Alotaibi Nassir , Khatri Ismail
Published: May 2022

We present a case of a man who had chronic otitis media caused acute
bacterial meningitis due to Streptococcus pneumoniae. The neuroimaging
indicated thick exudates in the CSF spaces. Our patient’s CSF consisted
of frank pus. The CSF white blood cell count was highly elevated, not
reported in prior literature.
A specific notation for contrast medium and dehydrated ethanol injection into the vein of Marshall during mitral isthmus ablation----A Case report
Authors: Li Xinyun , Zhang Wei , Su Guoying , Gao Xiaoyuan , Kong Qingzan
Published: May 2022

Ablation of the vein of Marshall (VOM) by dehydrated ethanol (DE) is an
important method for completely blocking the mitral isthmus (MI). Before
DE ablation of the VOM, Marshall angiography should be performed so that
the contrast medium is inevitably exposed to DE. Here, we present a case
of DE ablation of the VOM. When iodixanol was exposed to DE, some
[floccule](javascript:;) embolized the lumen of the over-the-wire
(OTW) balloon dilatation catheter and led to the impossibility of DE
ablation. Then, we performed in vitro experiments: iodixanol, not
iomeprol, produced many stable white floccules when it encountered DE.
Our report showed that iodixanol is not an
[appropriate](javascript:;) contrast for DE ablation of the VOM.
However, if there is no other alternative contrast, the following
methods might be used to address the problem: ⑴ diluted iodixanol
(iodixanol: normal saline 1:1) could be used for VOM ablation; or ⑵ the
lumen of the OTW could be flushed by NS after VOM angiography, and then
DE injection could be performed.
Increase in Reported Deaths, Injuries, and Malfunctions for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Prostheses During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Jean-Jacques Nora A. , Bhatia Sujata K.
Published: May 2022

Shifts in care delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly from
surgical aortic valve replacement to percutaneous aortic valve
replacement, may have had adverse outcomes for patients. We analyzed
data from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Manufacturer and User
Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database, to determine trends in
reported malfunctions, injuries, and deaths for transcatheter aortic
valve prostheses during the decade 2012 to 2021. We find that reported
deaths attributed to transcatheter aortic valve prostheses more than
doubled from the pre-pandemic year of 2019 to the pandemic year of 2020.
Monthly reported deaths attributed to transcatheter aortic valve
prostheses increased by 124%, from 25.0 monthly deaths in 2019 to 55.9
monthly deaths in 2020 (p<0.003). The increased level of
deaths persisted in 2021, with 58.3 monthly reported deaths in 2021; the
overall increase in deaths from 2019 to 2021 was 133%. We find that
reported injuries attributed to transcatheter aortic valve prostheses
increased by 25%, from 297.8 monthly injuries in 2019 to 371.4 monthly
injuries in 2020 (p<0.03). Finally we find that reported
malfunctions attributed to transcatheter aortic valve prostheses
increased by 39%, from 40.1 monthly malfunctions in 2019 to 55.7
monthly malfunctions in 2020 (p<0.007). These results suggest
an overall increase in adverse events following transcatheter aortic
valve prostheses during the pandemic, and indicate a pressing need for
further research into short-term and long-term patient outcomes
following transcatheter aortic valve prostheses.
Numerical Assessment of Morphological and Hydraulic Properties of Moss, Lichen and Peat from a Permafrost Peatland
Authors: Cazaurang Simon , Marcoux Manuel , Pokrovsky Oleg S. , Loiko Sergey V. , Lim Artem G. , Audry Stéphane , Shirokova Liudmila , Orgogozo Laurent
Published: May 2022

The hydraulic properties of ground vegetation cover are important for
high resolution hydrological modeling of permafrost regions, due to its
insulating and draining role. In this study, the morphological and
effective hydraulic properties of Western Siberian Lowland ground
vegetation samples (lichens, Sphagnum mosses, peat) are
numerically assessed based on tomography scans. After numerical
pre-processing, porosity is estimated through a void voxels counting
algorithm, showing the existence of representative elementary volumes
(REV) of porosity for most samples. Then, two methods are used to
estimate hydraulic conductivity depending on the sample’s homogeneity.
For the most homogeneous samples, Direct Numerical Simulations (DNS) of
a single-phase flow are performed, leading to a definition of hydraulic
conductivity related to REV, which is larger than those obtained for
porosity. For more heterogeneous samples, no adequate REV may be
defined. To bypass this issue, a pore network representation of the
whole sample is created from computerized scans. Morphological and
hydraulic properties are then estimated through this simplified
representation. Both methods converged on similar results for porosity.
Some discrepancies are observed in the morphological properties
(specific surface area). Hydraulic conductivity fluctuates by two orders
of magnitude, depending on the method used, and yet this uncertainty is
less than that found in experimental studies. Therefore, biological and
sampling artifacts are predominant over numerical biases. Porosity
values are in line with previous values found in the literature, showing
that arctic cryptogamic cover can be considered as an open and
well-connected porous medium (over 99% of overall porosity is open
porosity). Meanwhile, digitally estimated hydraulic conductivity is
higher compared to previously obtained results based on field and
laboratory experiments. This could be related to compressibility
effects, occurring during field or laboratory measurements. Thus, some
supplementary studies are compulsory for assessing syn-sampling and
syn-measurement perturbations in experimentally estimated, effective
hydraulic properties of such a biological porous medium.
Effect of different electrolytes on electrochemical micro-machining of SS 316L
Authors: Vinod Kumaar Jeevarathnam , Thanigaivelan Rajasekaran , Soundarrajan Madesh
Published: May 2022

The use of stainless steel 316L (SS 316L) in the medical, marine, aerospace, bio-medical, and automobile sectors increases rapidly. Electrochemical micro-machining (ECMM) is the appropriate method for machining SS 316L due to its burr-free machining surface, no residual stress, and high precision. However, some limitations are found in using strong electrolytes, such as HCl, H2SO4, KOH, NaNO3, and NaCl, which reportedly face difficulties in disposing to the environment and handling issues. Hence, this paper addresses overcoming the disadvantages encountered in the ECMM process when using strong electrolytes to machine SS 316L. Therefore, different organic electrolytes such as tartaric acid (C4H6O6), citric acid (C6H8O7), and a combination of tartaric and citric acid (mixed electrolyte) are considered to select the best electrolyte. Process parameters like machining voltage, duty cycle, and electrolyte concentration are included in determining machining performance. The performance of ECMM is evaluated using material removal rate (MRR) and overcut. The overcut of tartaric acid electrolyte is 179% less than mixed electrolyte for the parameter combination of 12 g/l, 11 V, and 85%. On the other hand, the mixed electrolyte shows 114.2% higher MRR than the tartaric acid electrolyte for the parameter solutions of 25%, 11 V, and 20 g/l. Furthermore, the citric acid electrolyte shows the second-lowest overcut and higher MRR in all aspects of machining performance. Field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) studies are carried out to realize the effect of electrolytes on the machining surface.
Characterization of pre-alloyed NiTi powders produced by electrode induction-melting inert gas atomization for additive manufacturing
Authors: Wang J.-W. , He D.-Y. , Wu X. , Guo X.-Y. , Tan Z. , Zhou Z. , Shao W.
Published: May 2022

In this research, the characteristics of nickel-titanium (NiTi) powders produced by electrode induction melting inert gas atomization (EIGA) technique for additive manufacturing (AM) technology are investigated using various powder characterization technologies. The results show that the particle size distribution (PSD) of pre-alloyed NiTi powders prepared by EIGA has the range of 10 ?m to 180 ?m. The mean particle size distribution (D50) of the powder is 75 ?m. The oxygen increase of the powder is only 0.005% compared to the raw rod. According to the requirements of the characteristics of the metal powder material used for AM, the powders are sieved into three categories, P1 (15-63 ?m), P2 (63-150 ?m), and P3 (>150 ?m), respectively. The flow rates of P1 and P2 are 19.3 and 17.5 s?(50 g)-1, respectively. The surface, crosssectional microstructure, phase structure, and martensitic transformation temperature of the pre-alloyed NiTi powders with different particle sizes are investigated. The results show that powders of different particle sizes are primarily spherical or nearly spherical. The grain size of powders reduces with the decreasing of particle size. Both the bar stock and the powders of P1, P2, and P3 mainly exhibit the B2 phase. Comparing the powders P1, P2, and P3, the transformation temperature reduces with the decrease of particle size. A high density (99.55%) pre-alloyed NiTi specimen is successfully produced by selective laser melting (SLM) technology using P1 powders. The results indicate that the pre-alloyed NiTi alloy powder is appropriate for AM, which also has a good reference value for researchers producing AM powders.
Synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles from electric arc furnace dust
Authors: Bui A.-H. , Le D.-C. , Nguyen T.-T.
Published: May 2022

This paper presents a hydrometallurgical treatment of electric arc furnace (EAF) dust taken from a Vietnamese steelmaking plant to obtain zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles by using aqueous ammonium carbonate solution as a leaching agent. Characterization of the EAF dust was conducted by XRD technique, SEM observation, and manual wet chemical analysis. The results showed that total zinc (Zn) of the dust was 42.69 wt.% and existed mainly in the forms of zincite - ZnO, simonkolleite - Zn5(OH)8Cl2H2O, and franklinite - ZnFe2O4. The leached condition, in which the ammoniac carbonate concentration was 300 g/l and the time was 90 minutes, was found to provide the highest leaching efficiency of 85.29 % when the temperature was fixed at 60 oC and the ratio of solid/liquid was 1/6. After some steps of the subsequent treatment, the ZnO nanoparticles with the purity of 99.5 % and the size of 100 nm were obtained from thermal decomposition of zinc carbonate hydroxide - Zn5(CO3)2(OH)6.
Security component of states’ stability on a national and international level
Authors: Obradovic Zarko , Mladenovic Miroslav
Published: May 2022

The paper analyses the issue of political stability in the context of changes
in the positions of major political actors. The altered role of the
nation-state in the conditions of globalisation inevitably reflects on the
understanding of the security phenomenon. On the other hand, the number and
characteristics of security challenges and threats have increased
significantly. In addition to the previously present problems, there has
been an increase in drug trafficking, illegal migration, human organ
trafficking, an escalation of piracy, and the criminalisation of various
spheres of life. In the last two years, the world has also faced a new
global security problem, this time in the field of health - the COVID-19
pandemic. Practice has shown that (in most cases) the nation-state has
become weaker and less independent, and its corresponding state-centric
security system is inefficient, costly, cumbersome, and inadequate to many
new threats. The strength of this conclusion stems from the analysis of the
functioning of the national security system in the case of terrorist
attacks, but also from the study of the mechanisms used for overthrowing
sovereign states under the decisive influence of external factors.
Rivalry between the United States of America and Russia in cyberspace
Authors: Vuletic Dejan , Djordjevic Branislav
Published: May 2022

Authors analyze cyberspace, a product of the rapid development of information
and communication technologies, and its role and importance for leading
world powers. Nevertheless, to the undoubted advantages for modern society,
cyberspace has certain negative aspects regarding the state functioning. The
authors emphasize that there are certain threats in cyberspace and that they
are becoming more numerous and sophisticated. In strategic and doctrinal
documents of many countries they are among the greatest security challenges
in the 21st century. The authors explainthat cyberspace is characterized by
increasing militarization and the undoubted military presence of leading
world powers such as the United States (U.S.) and Russia. Further, authors
develop the argument that the growing dependence and use of information and
communication technologies has caused, among other things, a change in the
physiognomy of modern armed conflicts. The next part of the paper is
dedicated to the conflict of states in cyberspace. In the final part of the
article, authors give examples of incidents between the U.S. and Russia and
analyze their capability for cyber warfare. The authors conclude that both
considered world powers have respectable offensive and defensive capacities
for cyber warfare.
European Union and Ukraine: The strategic partnership leading to (some)where?
Authors: Petrovic Milos
Published: May 2022

This article analyses the evolving nature of the strategic relationship
between Ukraine and the EU since the onset of the second decade of the 21st
century. The author aims to show that, although the two sides have for years
been elevating their ties through the neighbourhood policy and the Eastern
Partnership strategic initiative, Kyiv?s ultimate ambition has always been
focused on securing the EU membership perspective. The author considers the
Ukrainian EU membership request precarious due to the Union?s concerns over
stability, Kyiv?s territorial integrity problems and the ongoing war, the
unfavourable impact for the current membership candidates, but also since
such a request sets a precedent for the other eastern partners. To explicate
the abovementioned aspects, the author primarily uses the historical method
and the document analysis, to clarify in greater detail the chief political
events which have gradually led towards the current state. Research
conclusions point out that, despite Ukraine?s right to apply for EU
membership, such a request is unlikely to result in a speedy accession, due
to a variety of abovementioned aspects, coupled with a complicated
decision-making process in the Union in that regard. In spite of that, the
EU intends to continue supporting Ukraine as a strategic partner in a
variety of domains, including also an indirect aid in combating the Russian
military incursion. The author finds that the EU?s response to the
membership application will have extensive ramifications not only on the two
parties? relations, but also on the enlargement policy and the Eastern
Partnership domain.
Prognostic factors and treatment outcome in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Dobrijevic Dejan , Kolarovic Jovanka
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is ? malignant, clonal
proliferation of B or T lymphocyte precursors. Prognostic factors play an
important role in the treatment of this disease. The objective of the study
was to determine whether individual clinical and laboratory parameters may
have a predictive significance for relapse and the disease outcome. Material
and Methods. A retrospective study included 53 patients with acute
lymphoblastic leukemia treated at the Institute for Child and Youth Health
Care of Vojvodina. The following clinical and laboratory parameters were
examined: gender, age at diagnosis, initial white blood cell count,
peripheral blood blast percentage, bone marrow blast percentage, prednisone
response on day 8 of treatment, immunophenotypic characteristics of leukemic
blasts, and infiltration of the central nervous system. Relapses and lethal
outcomes were analyzed as well. Results. The mean age at diagnosis was 6.4 ?
7.8 years. Prognostic factors associated with poor outcome were: age over 10
years, mature cell leukemia, and central nervous system involvement. Relapse
was found in 6 children (11.3%). Lethal outcome was recorded in 7 children
(13.2%). Conclusion. Treatment of childhood lymphoblastic leukemia should be
based on the prognostic factors for each patient. The results of this study
are consistent with the current literature.
Analysis of the circadian rhythm, sleep and rest in the working population
Authors: Mirkovic Andrea , Savic Nikola
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Circadian rhythm, sleep and rest are of great importance for
the proper functioning of the body. They have an impact on numerous organ
functions and human health in general. The aim of this study was to analyze
the circadian rhythm, sleep and rest associated with health in the working
population. Material and Methods. The research was designed as a
crosssectional study. A questionnaire was created as a research instrument
for the working population who used the services of the Eye Clinic ?Etiko?.
The study included a total of 110 respondents. Participation in the study
was voluntary and anonymous. Results. It was found that there are
statistically significant differences between the frequency of use of
digital devices and sleep quality among the respondents. A large number of
respondents (41.2%) who use digital devices every day before bedtime rated
their quality of sleep as poor. Most of the respondents who work night
shifts rated their sleep as unsatisfactory. Conclusion. Analysis of
circadian rhythm, sleep and rest is extremely important for the evaluation
of the overall health potential of the working population.
Rupture of the unscarred uterus during induced termination of pregnancy in the second trimester: A case report
Authors: Antic-Trifunovic Ksenija , Krsman Anita , Suvakovic Zoran , Stajic Gordana , Ilic Djordje , Dickov Isidora
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Uterine rupture is a rare complication of induced termination
of pregnancy in the second trimester. We report a case of a patient with a
rupture of the unscarred uterus during a prostaglandin-induced abortion in
the second trimester of pregnancy. Case Report. A 26-year-old pregnant woman
was admitted to the Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics in the 22nd week of
gestation of her fourth pregnancy due to complete absence of amniotic fluid.
The patient denied previous surgeries and other diseases. Due to a poor
prognosis for the fetus, the Ethics Committee approved the termination of
pregnancy. The induction of abortion was started by applying two
dinoprostone gels intracervically and continued by using carboprost
tromethamine intramuscularly. The patient aborted after 38 hours from the
start of induction. During instrumental revision of the uterine cavity, a
rupture of the right side of the uterus was suspected. Ultrasound
examination showed a parametrial hematoma. Laparotomy was indicated due to
suspected uterine rupture. The intraoperative findings showed a hematoma
located in the right parametrium and a complete rupture of the posterior
wall of the uterus extending from the right vaginal fornix to the right
uterine horn. A total abdominal hysterectomy with preservation of both
ovaries was performed. Conclusion. Since ruptures of the unscarred uterus
are rare, almost at the chance level, it is important to always keep them in
mind as a potential complication of induced termination of pregnancy in the
second trimester.
Cutaneous metastasis as the first manifestation of neuroendocrine neoplasm of the lung: A case report
Authors: Stojanovic Dragana , Lucic Silvija , Peter Andrea , Srbovan Dolores , Ivanov Olivera , Lovrenski Aleksandra
Published: May 2022

Introduction. Neuroendocrine neoplasms are rare heterogeneous malignancies
that may occur in almost any organ in the body. These neoplasms are
associated with a wide range of clinical and pathophysiological
manifestations. Case Report. A 67-year-old female patient, non-smoker with a
history of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis, visited her general
practitioner complaining of back pain, heart palpitations, and change in
stool consistency. Physical examination revealed multiple subcutaneous
nodules in the neck and chest area that were painful to touch. Due to
suspected hyperthyroidism, she was referred to an endocrinologist. The
ultrasound of the thyroid gland showed multiple cysts in the right lobe and
a nodule in the left lobe of the thyroid gland. Laboratory tests showed
elevated calcitonin and carbohydrate antigen levels. Based on the assumption
that medullary thyroid carcinoma was the most likely diagnosis, she was
referred to the Nuclear Medicine Department of the Oncology Institute of
Vojvodina. A fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the left thyroid nodule was
done and thyroid malignancy was excluded. By histopathological analysis of
the enlarged right chest lymph node and a skin lump on the left loin, a lung
cancer with neuroendocrine morphology with positive neuroendocrine markers
was diagnosed. Computed tomography revealed a tumor infiltrating the left
hilum with metastases. Conclusion. Skin metastases of neuroendocrine
neoplasms are rare and may occur in any part of the human body. They may
develop before the primary tumor is recognized and are associated with
disseminated malignancy. Diagnosis and treatment are important to control
the disease and improve the quality of life of patients.
A volatility spillover analysis between bond and commodity markets as an indicator for global liquidity risk
Authors: Kirkpinar Ayşegül , Evrim Mandaci
Published: May 2022

This study aims to analyze the volatility spillover between bond and commodity markets in terms of global liquidity risk. The data covers the daily closing prices of bond markets in specified countries - Brazil, Russia, India, China, and Turkey - and certain commodities - gold and oil - for the period January 2008 to January 2022. We utilized the DCC-GARCH model to analyze volatility spillover between these markets and the Copula DCC-GACRH model to determine dependence structures between them. Additionally, we applied the Hong Causality in Variance Test to determine the direction of the causal relationships between these markets. Our empirical findings indicate the existence of significant volatility spillovers between gold and most of these bond markets (Brazil, China, Russia, and Turkey), and between oil and some of these bond markets (Russia, India and Turkey). Our results indicate a limited diversification benefit for investors and portfolio managers.
Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia and Sunscreen Use: A Cross-sectional Study of Actinic Damage
Authors: Porriño-Bustamante María Librada , Montero-Vílchez Trinidad , Pinedo-Moraleda Fernando Javier , Fernández-Flores Ángel , Fernández-Pugnaire María Antonia , Arias-Santiago Salvador
Published: May 2022

Patients with frontal fibrosing alopecia report higher rates of sunscreen use than control subjects. However, it is not known whether the higher use of sunscreens is a cause or a consequence of the alopecia. A greater use of sunscreens should be associated with a lower incidence of signs of actinic damage. The aim of this study is to assess the presence of actinic damage in patients with frontal fibrosing alopecia. A cross-sectional study was carried out on 101 patients with frontal fibrosing alopecia and 40 control subjects. The presence of actinic damage, in the form of solar lentigines, actinic keratoses, and basal and squamous cell carcinomas, was recorded in both groups, together with sunscreen use. Trichoscopy and skin biopsy were performed on patients. Actinic damage was present more frequently in patients with frontal fibrosing alopecia (69.3%) than in control subjects (50%) (p = 0.031). Patients used sunscreens more frequently than did control subjects (83.2% vs 62.5%, p = 0.008). However, the prevalence of trichoscopic inflammatory signs, peripheral alopecia, and inflammatory infiltrate and sebaceous gland involvement in skin biopsy, were similar in patients who used sunscreens and those who did not use them. In conclusion, patients with frontal fibrosing alopecia had greater actinic damage than did control subjects, and this is hypothesized as a reason for the higher use of sunscreens among patients. Thus, use of sunscreens may not be the trigger for frontal fibrosing alopecia that dermatologists have proposed.