bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The application of graph theoretical analysis to complex networks in medical malpractice: Lessons learned from China (Preprint)
Authors: Dong Shengjie , Shi Chenshu , Jia Zhiying , Dong Minye , Xiao Yuyin , Li Guohong
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Studies have shown that hospitals or physicians with multiple malpractice claims are more likely to be involved in new claims; this finding indicates that medical malpractice may be clustered by institutions.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to identify common factors that contribute to developing interventions to reduce future claims and patient harm.

METHODS

This study implemented a null hypothesis whereby malpractice claims are random events—attributable to bad luck with random frequency. As medical malpractice is a complex issue, thus, this study applied the complex network theory, which provided the methodological support for understanding interactive behavior in medical malpractice. Specifically, this study extracted the semantic network in 6610 medical litigation records (unstructured data) obtained from a public judicial database in China; they represented the most serious cases of malpractice in the country. The medical malpractice network of China (MMNC) was presented as a knowledge graph; it employs the International Classification of Patient Safety from the World Health Organization as a reference.

RESULTS

We found that the MMNC was a scale-free network: the occurrence of medical malpractice in litigation cases was not random, but traceable. The results of the hub nodes revealed that orthopedics, obstetrics and gynecology, and emergency department were the three most frequent specialties that incurred malpractice; inadequate informed consent work constituted the most errors. Non-technical errors (e.g. inadequate informed consent) showed a higher centrality than technical errors.

CONCLUSIONS

Hospitals and medical boards could apply our approach to detect hub nodes that are likely to benefit from interventions; doing so could effectively control medical risks.

CLINICALTRIAL

Not applicable
A Bayesian Network Concept for Pain Assessment (Preprint)
Authors: Sadik Omowunmi
Published: December 2021

UNSTRUCTURED

Pain is a subjective phenomenon caused/perceived centrally and modified by physical, physiological, or social influences. Currently, the most commonly used approaches for pain measurement rely on self-reporting of pain level on a discrete rating scale. This provides a subjective and only semi-quantitative indicator of pain.

This paper presents an approach that combines self-reported pain with pain-related biomarkers to be obtained from biosensors (in development) and possibly other sources of evidence to provide more dependable estimates of experienced pain, a clinical decision support system. We illustrate the approach using a Bayes network, but also describe other artificial intelligence (AI) methods that provide other ways to combine evidence. We also propose an optimization approach for tuning the AI method parameters (opaque to clinicians) so as to best approximate the kinds of outputs most useful to medical practitioners.

We present some data from a sample of 379 patients that illustrate several evidence patterns we may expect in real healthcare situations. The majority (79.7%) of our patients show consistent evidence suggesting this biomarker approach may be reasonable. We also found five patterns of inconsistent evidence. These suggest a direction for further exploration. Finally, we sketch out an approach for collecting medical experts’ guidance as to the way the combined evidence might be presented so as to provide the most useful guidance (also needed for any optimization approach). We recognize that one possible outcome may be that all this approach may be able to provide is a quantified measure of the extent to which the evidence is consistent or not, leaving the final decision to the clinicians (where it must reside). Pointers to additional sources of evidence might also be possible in some situations.
Associations of Fear of COVID-19 and Depression with Internet Addiction in Korean Adults: A Cross-sectional Online Study (Preprint)
Authors: Shin Sun Hwa , Lee Jung Jae
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Internet use during the COVID-19 pandemic has increased exponentially, resulting in increasing prevalence of Internet addiction. The negative effects of Internet addiction on health including psychological distress have become more prevalent during the pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to investigate the associations between Internet addiction and psychological distress, including the fear of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and depression, in Korean adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

A population-based cross-sectional online survey was conducted from 14th to 18th May 2021. Potential adult survey respondents aged 20 years or older were randomly extracted from one of the largest online survey panels in Korea, matching Korean national demographical proportions (i.e., region, gender, and age). 1,155 participants were recruited. Descriptive and logistic regression analyses were performed to investigate the participants’ characteristics and analyze the adjusted odds ratios (aORs) respectively.

RESULTS

11.17%, 15.15% and 37.23% of the Korean adults were at risk of Internet addiction, COVID-19 fear, and depression respectively. Internet addiction was positively associated with COVID-19 fear (aOR=3.25, 95% CI [2.10, 5.04]) and depressive symptoms (aOR=6.40, 95% CI [4.15, 9.86]). Moreover, the participant group with high COVID-19 fear and depression had a 10.22 times higher odds ratio for Internet addiction (aOR=10.22, 95% CI [5.88, 17.77]), compared with the group with low COVID-19 fear and depression.

CONCLUSIONS

Addictive use of the Internet was significantly associated with psychological distress during COVID-19 pandemic. Development of public health strategies that mitigate addictive Internet use and increase eHealth literacy will be useful to secure the public’s psychological well-being.
Нарративы детей Сибири о депортации калмыков. Интервью с В. И. Бадмаевым и А. Н. Овшиновым
Authors:   Kalmyk Scientific Center of the RAS (8, Ilishkin St., 358000 Elista, Russian Federation), Guchinova Elza-Bair M.
Published: December 2021

Introduction. This publication is devoted to the issues of deportation of the Kalmyk people to Siberia (1943–1956) and the memories that the individuals have of their traumatic experience of the exile period. It consists of an introduction, two interviews, and comments on them. The narratives belong to Kalmyks who were of preschool age at the time of Siberian exile. The purpose of the publication is to focus on “children of Siberia” as a separate generational stratum, with their own specific experiences and loyalties; Siberian villages, sites of their socialization, becoming their homeland. Of relevance are the facts that contribute to the mosaic of the Siberian life of Kalmyks and the stories shedding light on the feelings and experiences of children growing up in Siberia. Also, the author was interested in analyzing the expressions and verbal formulas, plots and associations that create the protagonists’ spontaneous narratives, and the ways the language of trauma, which arises in any narrative of the traumatic event, is used in the material under study. Data and methods. The interviews were taken by the author from V. I. Badmaev (2008) and from A. N. Ovshinov (2018); presented in the form of transcribed texts, these are examined via the method of discourse analysis. Results. The discursive strategies of the two narratives indicate their largely positive character. The author shows that, for their specific exile experience, the “children of Siberia” should be singled out into a separate generational stratum. The material will be of interest to the student of the Kalmyk deportation history and the people’s memory of the exile.
Вооружение и знамена ойратов Джунгарии середины XVIII в. по материалам «Циньдин Хуанъюй Сиюй тучжи»
Authors:   Novosibirsk State University (1, Pirogov St., 630090 Novosibirsk, Russian Federation), Bobrov Leonid A. , Pastukhov Alexey M.
Published: December 2021

Introduction. The article deals with “Qinding Huangyu Xiyu tuzhi” (QHXT), the Qing source of the second half of the 18th century, namely its chapter (juan) 41 devoted to the weapons and military symbols of the Oirats of the Dzungarian state (1635–1758). The chapter in question has not been translated into Russian, neither has it been the subject of a special study so far. The aim of the present article is to introduce the evidence of this part of the Qing source on the weapons and banners of the Dzungars. Results. The compilation of the document was initiated by Emperor Qianlong after the territory of the Dzungar state was annexed to the Qing Empire. A group of Qing officials and of European specialists was sent to explore the newly acquired lands. The work in Dzungaria was largely carried out in 1756–1757, while the study of East Turkestan was completed in the spring of 1759. The work on the text itself began the same year to continue for about 23 years (1759–1782). Manchu military leaders who participated in the war in Central Asia took part, among others, in the compilation of the document. The source includes descriptions of Dzungarian weapons for distant and close combat, armor, and two types of Dzungarian banners. Each item is supplied with description and transcription of its original name. In some cases, the material used for their manufacture and typical sizes are indicated. The data of the written source under study compared with authentic samples of Dzungar weapons and pertaining visual materials has shown that the Qing officials described the features of their construction and decoration with high degree of reliability. Some of this information is unique and can be found in no other sources of the period. The data of the source is of special relevance for attributing various types of weaponry cited in Mongolian sources of the 17th–18th cc., as well as in the Mongolian and Oirat epics. The Qing authors made comparisons of the original names of the Dzungar weapons and armor with their construction features, which opens new avenues for elaborate studies of written works and epics of Central Asian populations. Conclusion. The analysis undertaken in the present article has shown that to date QHST is the most valuable and detailed Qing written source on the weapons and banners of the Dzungars of the middle of the 18th century.
Extending the Shelf Life of Beef Steaks Using Acerola Cherry Powder and Rosemary Extract
Authors: Van Buren Jessie B. , Buseman Brianna J. , Weber Tanya M. , Nasados James A. , Lancaster Jessica M. , Smart Jaxon H. , Church James A. , Price William J. , Bass Phillip D. , Colle Michael J.
Published: December 2021

Improvements in retail shelf life of exported beef will help with merchandising and increase competitiveness in the worldwide market for United States beef products. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of topically applying acerola cherry powder or rosemary extract from various suppliers on beef bone-in short rib steak and chuck roll steak shelf life. USDA Choice beef bone-in short ribs (IMPS 123A) and chuck rolls (IMPS 116A) were aged (0°C) for 28 d postfabrication. Following aging, 1.02-cm-thick steaks were cut (N = 126) and systematically assigned to a treatment based on steak location within the subprimal. Treatments included untreated control (C), topically sprayed (2 mL) with an acerola cherry powder solution (0.05%) from 1 of 3 suppliers (C1, C2, C3), or topically sprayed (2 mL) with a rosemary extract solution (0.10%) from 1 of 3 suppliers (R1, R2, R3). Half of the steaks were assigned to day 0 lipid oxidation, metmyoglobin-reducing activity (MRA), and oxygen consumption; the remaining steaks were assigned to color evaluation over 4 d of retail display followed by day 4 lipid oxidation and MRA. Short rib steaks treated with antioxidants had a brighter oxygenated lean color than control steaks (P < 0.001). There was an interaction (P = 0.028) between time of retail display and MRA. Short rib steaks treated with C3 and R2 did not change in MRA between day 0 and 4 (P = 0.620, P = 0.428, respectively). Chuck roll steaks treated with C1, C2, C3, R2, and R3 all had a higher, or more desirable, MRA than the control steaks on day 0 (P < 0.001). Applying topical antioxidants improves the shelf-life stability of steaks from beef bone-in short ribs and chuck rolls aged for an extended period.
Beef Carcass Size and Aging Time Effects on Yield and Color Characteristics of Top Round Steaks
Authors: Lancaster Jessica M. , Weber Tanya M. , Van Buren Jessie B. , Smart Jaxon H. , Buseman Brianna J. , Nasados James A. , Murdoch Gordon K. , Price William J. , Colle Michael J. , Bass Phillip D.
Published: December 2021

Variation in cut size and weight of fabricated subprimals is a challenge of increased beef carcass weights. Subsequently, variation in carcass size has resulted in consistency challenges during retail display. The objective of this study was to assess three aging periods of commercially available top rounds from varying carcass weights as it relates to yield and color characteristics. In the current study, 21 industry average weight (AW; 340 to 409 kg; no industry discount) beef carcasses and 21 oversized (OS; exceeding 454 kg; receive a discount) beef carcasses were evaluated. Carcasses were selected at a commercial beef packing plant, where the left and right (paired) top round subprimals of each carcass were procured. Paired top rounds were assigned to a short (8 d), average (23 d), or extended (42 d) postmortem aging period. After wet-aging, subprimals were fabricated into steaks for additional analysis. Steaks were evaluated as whole top round steaks or further fabricated into “ superficial ” and “ deep ” portions at 5.08 cm from the superficial edge of the Semimembranosus and the Adductor muscle. Top rounds and steaks from OS carcasses were larger (P < 0.01) than those from AW carcasses. Quantitative color of the anatomically deep locations of the OS steaks had the greatest mean L* (lightness; P < 0.01), a* (redness; P < 0.01) and b* (yellowness; P < 0.01) values. Extending the aging timeline increased L* (lightness; P < 0.01), decreased a* (redness; P < 0.01), and decreased b* (yellowness; P < 0.01). Alternative top round steak fabrication that separates the deep and superficial anatomical locations could be an effective means of providing more uniform steaks.
Analisis Kemampuan Pemecahan Masalah Matematis Ditinjau Dari Minat Belajar Siswa
Authors: Laila Zulya , Aima Zulfitri , Yunita Alfi
Published: December 2021

Kemampuan pemecahan masalah adalah suatu pemikiran untuk menemukan solusi. Rendahnya kemampuan pemecahan masalah salah satu penyebabnya adalah rendahnya minat belajar. Tujuan penelitian ini untuk mengetahui analisis kemampuan pemecahan masalah matematika ditinjau dari minat belajar siswa. Teknik pengambilan subjek menggunakan purposive sampling. Subjek penelitian adalah seluruh siswa kelas IX.1 di SMP Negeri 1 Sungai Limau. Desain penelitian menggunakan metode analisis deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Teknik pengumpulan data dalam penelitian ini adalah angket, soal tes dan wawancara. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan model Miles dan Huberman, yaitu reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Hasil analisis data terdapat 5 orang siswa dengan minat belajar tinggi, 16 orang dengan minat belajar sedang dan 9 orang dengan minat belajar rendah. Untuk menggali kemampuan pemecahan masalah ditinjau dari minat belajar, dilakukan pemilihan secara acak sebanyak 2 orang siswa minat belajar tinggi, sedang dan rendah untuk dilakukan wawancara. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa siswa dengan minat belajar tinggi memiliki kemampuan pemecahan masalah dalam kategori baik, mampu memenuhi 4 tahapan polya yaitu (1) memahami masalah, (2) menyusun rencana penyelesaian, (3) melaksanakan penyelesaian, dan (4 )memeriksa kembali. Siswa dengan minat belajar sedang mampu menyelesaikan soal tes pemecahan masalah tahap memahami masalah, merencanakan penyelesaian dan belum maksimal dalam melaksanakan penyelesaian dan memeriksa kembali. Siswa dengan minat belajar rendah mampu menyelesaikan soal tes pemecahan masalah tahap memahami masalah, dan belum maksimal pada merencanakan, dan belum mampu melaksanakan penyelesaian dan memeriksa kembali.
Analisis Kemampuan Pemahaman Konsep Matematis Siswa pada Pembelajaran Matematika Kelas XI IIS SMA PGRI 3 Padang
Authors: Ibnu S Ibnu S , Yusri Radhya , Jufri Lucky Heriyanti
Published: December 2021

This research is motivated by the low ability of students to understand mathematical concepts in learning mathematics.The purpose of this study was to determine how thw mathematical ability of class XI IIS students at SMA PGRI 3 Padang. The subjects of this study were students of class XI IIS SMA PGRI 3 Padang, totalling 19 students. The research method used is descriptive method using a qualitative approach. The instrument used in this study was a test of the ability to understand concepts in the form of 4 questions in the form of descriptions and interview. The test results were analysed based on indicators of concept understanding. The results of this study indicate hat the results of data analysis on the ability to understand mathematical concepts of the 19 students tested obtained the total qualification score of 50% in the medium category. The qualifications for the total score of students mathematical concept understanding abilities based on the analysis of eachindicator on concept undestandig are as follow: on the indicator of restating a concept, 54% is in the medium category, classifying objects according to certain properties (according to the concept) is 82% are in the high category, providing examples and non-examples of the concept are 30 in the less category, presenting the concept in the form of a mathematical representation is 35% in the less category, developing necessary or sufficient requirements of a conceptis 73% in the medium category, and applying the concept or problem-solving algorithm is 24% in the lo category.
Hubungan Kepercayaan Diri Siswa dengan Pemahaman Konsep Matematis Siswa Kelas XI MIA 1 SMAN 3 Lubuk Basung Kabupaten Agam
Authors: Suci Vuve Ona Rahma , .Melisa Melisa , .Hamdunah Hamdunah
Published: December 2021

The ability to understand concepts is one of the goals of mathematical ability. One of the factors for the lack of ability to understand concepts is self-confidence. This study aims to determine the relationship between students' self-confidence and understanding of mathematical concepts in class XI MIA SMAN 3 Lubuk Basung Kabupaten Agam.This study uses inferential research where inferential research is a study that tests a hypothesis, and relates one variable to another with quantitative analysis. The subjects of this study were students of class XI MIA 1 SMAN 3 Lubuk Basung. The research instrument used was a self-confidence questionnaire and a test for understanding mathematical concepts. The data analysis technique used is simple linear regression analysis and product moment correlation.Based on data analysis, the regression coefficient of the questionnaire score (b) is with a significant level of 0.05 because the regression coefficient (b) is positive, so there is a positive effect of X on Y. It means that the bigger X, the bigger Y on average. The close linear relationship between X and Y can be seen from the correlation coefficient r = where r approaches 1, then a positive linear relationship between X and Y so that it can be concluded that the bigger X, the greater Y and self-confidence has a positive influence on the ability to understand concepts of class XI students. MIA 1 SMAN 3 Lubuk Basung Kabupaten Agam.
Effect of Olive Mill Wastewater of in the Control of Olive Verticillium Wilt Caused by Verticillium dahlia Kleb
Authors:   Center for Scientific Agricultural Research- Lattikia- Syria, Muhrez Khiyam , Tawil Mohamad Zakaria ,   Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Plant Protection,Teshreen University, Lattikia,Syria, Barhoum Bassema ,   Center for Scientific Agricultural Research- Lattikia- Syria
Published: December 2021

Muhrez, K.A., M.Z. Tawil and B. Barhoum. 2021. Effect of Olive Mill Wastewater of in the Control of Olive Verticillium Wilt Caused by Verticillium dahlia Kleb. Arab Journal of Plant Protection, 39(4): 273-280. https://doi.org/10.22268/AJPP-39.4.273280 This research aimed to evaluate the application of olive mill wastewater in controlling Verticillium dahliae the causal agent of olive wilt disease on olive trees. This study was carried out on 2 years old olive local variety (Khderi) plants planted in pots after it has been artificial inoculated with V. dahliae, and severity was recorded within 90 days. Olive mill wastewater (omww) efficacy was estimated at the end of the experiment. Severity was increased from 8.89% before treatment to 28.89% 60 days after treatment, and decreased to 13.33% 90 days after treatment with omww 450 ml/l. Disease severity increased from 11.11% before treatment to 37.78% 60 days after treatment and decreased to 35.56% 90 days after treatment with omww 300 ml/l. Whereas, disease severity increased from 17.78% before treatment to 40% 90 days after treatment with azoxystrobin compared to the inoculated control where disease severity increased from 13.33% before treatment to 100% 90 days after treatment. Omww 450 ml/l had the highest efficacy of 80% followed by azoxystrobin 70%, and omww 300 ml/l 57.33%. It can be concluded that olive mill wastewater has a potential application as a bio-fungicide for the control of olive verticillium wilt disease. Keywords: Olive mill waste waters, Verticillium dahlia, olive, Fungicide.
Efficacy of Hymecromone in Post-Cholecystectomy Patients
Authors: Okhlobystin A V. , Ufimtseva A. К. , Tatarkina M. A. , Okhlobystina O. Z. , Ivashkin V. T.
Published: December 2021

Background. The cholecystectomy is the major cause of sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD), that may be classified as post-cholecystectomy syndrome (PCES). Treatment of PCES requires in most of the cases application of selective antispasmodic drugs.Aim. To evaluate efficacy and safety of hymecromone in patients with post-cholecystectomy SOD, to compare standard and reduced doses of hymecromone.Methods. Overall, 26 patients were enrolled in non-interventional comparative study: 2 males, 24 females, aged from 25 to 74 years. All patients underwent cholecystectomy for symptomatic gallstone disease within 1 to 10 years prior to beginning of the study. All patients were diagnosed to have SOD according to Rome IV Diagnostic Criteria for functional biliary sphincter of Oddi disorder (E1b). All patients underwent hymecromone monotherapy for 3 weeks. Patients were randomized to group A and B to receive full-dose or half-dose of the drug respectively.Results. Abdominal pain completely subsided in 85 % of patients, significant improvement was found for bloating and diarrhea. Mild increase in fasting common bile duct (CBD) diameter after treatment (7.23 ± 0.99 vs 6.78 ± 1.01; p = 0.029) was attributed to choleretic action of hymecromone. Hymecromone resulted in significant improvement of CBD response to fatty meal stimulation (ΔCBD): –1.08 ± 0.46 mm vs –0.10 ± 0.33 mm pretreatment (p = 0.016). Degree of improvement was more pronounced in the group A (full-dose) as compared to group B (half-dose) for abdominal pain (Z = 2.74, p = 0.031), bloating (Z = 2.63, p = 0.035) and constipation (Z = 2.61, p = 0.038)Conclusion. Hymecromone demonstrated itself to be an effective and safe drug, that may be applied both in standard and half dose. However, the efficacy of full-dose is higher both for the treatment of biliary pain and dyspeptic symptoms. Transabdominal ultrasound may be applied as a reliable test for both prediction of treatment efficacy and to monitor patients state during treatment course.
Comprehensive Ultrasound Diagnosis of Sigmoid Diverticulitis
Authors: Кoushnerou A. I. , Hadji-Ismail I. A. , Vorobei A. V. , Rudenka S. I.
Published: December 2021

Aim.A definition and systematisation of sigmoid diverticulitis semiotics in a comprehensive ultrasonic check-up for early illness diagnosis.Materials and methods.Ultrasound examination data on 64 patients with sigmoid diverticulum have been analysed. The primary visit reason was recurrent varying-intensity pain in left abdominal quadrant, unstable stool and flatulence. The patients were 28 (43.75%) men and 36 (56.25%) women aged 38–85 years, mean age 55.6 years; 31 (48.44%) were diagnosed with diverticulitis. We used the HD15 (Philips, the Netherlands), HS 60 (Samsung, South Korea) and Hi Vision Preirus (Hitachi, Japan) ultrasound instruments equipped with convex and intracavitary microconvex 2–12 MHz linear transducers. Patients were examined on an empty stomach and unprepared intestine. Colon and rectum were explored at different approaches, transabdominally, transperineally, transrectally and transvaginallyResults.The findings laid out a more elaborated ultrasound semiotics of diverticulitis. Ultrasound check-up enables a reliable estimation of blood supply and peristalsis, colonic wall thickness and layers, presence of asymptomatic diverticula, signs of acute diverticulitis (pain on sensor touch, mesocolic tissue infiltration, presence of faecal calculi and gas in diverticulum, peridiverticulitis) and other complications of diverticular disease (fistulae, abscess or peritonitis), as well as a consistent differential instrumental diagnosis of other organ illnesses.Conclusion.Ultrasound is an indispensable supplement in clinical diagnosis of diverticula, diverticulitis and their complications in the cases when other methods like X-ray, CT or colonoscopy are contraindicated.
Earnings management determinants: A study of Egyptian listed firm characteristics post the Egyptian revolution
Authors: ElHawary Engy , Hassouna Dina
Published: December 2021

This research aims to look at how firm characteristics and audit quality can affect the earning management practices in the Egyptian context, within the period of 2011–2019. This period was after the Egyptian revolution and has not been well investigated in Egypt, especially after the new release of corporate governance rules for listing firms. A sample of 157 non-financial listed companies in the Egyptian stock exchange is selected for achieving the research objective through analysing their financial reports. The panel least squares, using the fixed-effect model, is used to test the hypotheses and investigate the relationship between discretional accruals and firm characteristics, where the dependent variable is the earnings management, measured by the discretionary accruals and the independent variables are the firm characteristics (size, financial leverage, age, survival and audit quality). The results illustrate that the relationship between a firm’s financial leverage and earnings management is positive. This study may help the firms to control their financial leverage for avoiding any earnings management practice. The stakeholders should notice such significant firm characteristics in making their own decisions, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, which may expectedly increase the firm financial leverage, and in turn, some earning management practices can be used intentionally to hide the bad firm performance
Determinants of debt-to-equity and its impact on the performance of industrial companies listed on Amman Stock Exchange
Authors: Alzubi Khaled , Bani-Hani Amer
Published: December 2021

This paper focuses on investigating the determinants of the debt-to-equity ratio, and its impact on the performance of 20 industrial companies listed on the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE). It uses a numerical research model comprised of two operations: data envelopment analysis (DEA) followed by regression analysis, that is to identify the key determinants of the said ratio and examine the effects of it and its determinants on companies’ performances. Furthermore, the paper detects that firm risk has a substantially positive impact on debt-to-equity and firm size; whereas tangibility and liquidity have a substantially negative impact on debt-to-equity. Finally, the study finds that debt-to-equity and firm size both have a substantially negative impact on performance; contrastingly, liquidity and tangibility and possess a substantially positive impact on the industrial companies’ performances. The importance of exploring the research problem lies in its potential to further benefit and help the industry leaders in the ASE, and stakeholders of these industries, in developing an action plan that determines the debt-to-equity ratio for financing they will need in order to optimize the company’s sustainability and profit generation (Drobetz & Fix, 2005).
Global strong solutions and large time behavior of 2D tropical climate model with zero thermal diffusion
Authors: Niu Dongjuan , Wu Huiru
Published: December 2021

In this article, we study the global well-posedness and large-time
behaviors of solutions to the two-dimensional tropical climate system
with zero thermal diffusion for a small initial data in the whole space.
The main approaches include high and low frequency decomposition method
and exploiting the structure of system (1) to obtain the estimates of
thermal dissipation. We utilize the time decay properties of the kernels
to a linear differential equation to obtain the decay rates of solutions
of the low frequency part and the decay property of exponential operator
for the high frequency part. The key ingredient here is the explicit
large-time decay rate of solutions.
Reply to Jubouri and Abdelhaliem
Authors: Tan Sven Zhen Cian , Bashir Mohamad
Published: December 2021

We present a reply to the invited commentary by Jubouri and Abdelhaliem
published in response to our original article titled: Prevention
vs Cure: is BioGlue priming the optimal strategy against E-Vita Neo
graft oozing? The authors highlight key issues associated with the
E-Vita Open NEO aortic arch prosthesis, chiefly, the propensity for the
prosthesis to exhibit post-anastomotic oozing. We read with great
interest their commentary and concur that the issues highlighted therein
are significant and warrant discussion.
Collision tumors of the thyroid. A special clinical and pathological entity
Authors:   Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania, Bojoga Andreea ,   “C.I. Parhon” National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania, Stănescu Laura ,   Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania; “C.I. Parhon” National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania, Badiu Corin ,   Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania; “C.I. Parhon” National Institute of Endocrinology, Bucharest, Romania
Published: December 2021

Thyroid collision tumors are rare entities that designate two histologically and morphologically distinct tumors that occur simultaneously or as metastases from other organs within the thyroid. Medullary and papillary carcinoma co-occurrence is the most frequent. Several theories tried to explain the pathogenic mechanisms underlining collision tumors, including the theory which assumes that one tumor predisposes the other, stem cell theory, and random effect theory, but their combination better explains the origin of these tumors. Hypotheses about common genetic behavior responsible for the pathogenesis have also been suggested, such as the involvement of germline mutation of RET (Rearranged during Transfection) proto-oncogene in medullary thyroid carcinoma and papillary thyroid carcinoma coexistence, but there is controversy on this topic. Management of thyroid collision tumors is challenging owing to the presence of two distinct tumors with different biological aggressiveness, treatments options, and prognosis, and needs to be individualized.
Revolução dos bichos
Authors: Oliveira Filho Silas Dias de
Published: December 2021

Na Revolução dos Bichos, George Orwell apresenta, de forma lúdica e contundente, as vicissitudes da organização social, marcada pela exploração do forte pelo fraco. Apesar das reviravoltas e revoluções, as circunstâncias materiais acabam por, novamente, conduzir o desfecho da história a um patamar bastante próximo do ponto de partida. Embora o texto se refira a um momento histórico bastante específico – Revolução Russa de 1917 –, até os dias de hoje revela-se bastante atual, uma vez que o passado insiste em se refazer no futuro, diante da displicência do presente com a História.
The Digital Development Trends of Circular Economy in China
Authors:   Institute of Circular Economy, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China, Zheng Zichen , Liu Tingting ,   Institute of Circular Economy, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
Published: December 2021

COVID-19 has become a global health crisis, influencing the development of all walks of life. The lockdown implemented to control the spread of the pandemic has led to the development of digital technology. As a country that has gradually recovered from the epidemic, China's circular economy development pattern has undergone some changes. This study indicates three significant digital development trends in the circular economy in the post-pandemic era. They are "New business models" of the digital economy are integrating into a circular economy, the digital governance capability of circular economy gains more traction, and the digitalization of waste sorting exemplifies the transitions accelerated by the pandemic." Despite the strong momentum of China's digital transformation, there are difficulties in determining data ownership and collaboration among stakeholders.
Eden in Peril: Impact of Humans on Pacific Island Ecosystems
Authors: Rapaport Moshe
Published: December 2021

Islands have often been cited as models of human impact upon the environment. With high rates of endemism and other unique characteristics, island ecosystems are subject to dramatic perturbation. The arrival of humans in Near Oceania during the Pleistocene led swiftly to a series of fauna extinctions. In the New Guinea Highlands clearing and tending of wild plants gave rise to tree and root crop agriculture, intensive cultivation technology, and anthropogenic grasslands. By 3600 BP (Before Present), Lapita settlers had reached Remote Oceania, leading to deforestation and declines in birds and other species. European contact introduced new biota and new technology, with significant consequences for island environments and societies. Questions have been raised concerning the impact of climate change on island ecosystems. Population growth plays a significant role in environmental degradation, though not necessarily as a proximate cause. The Tikopian arboriculture system provides one of several Oceanic models of sustainability.
PREVENTION OF SECONDARY INFECTION OF WOUNDS IN PATIENTS WITH HEMODIALYSIS
Authors: O. Ya. Popadyuk
Published: December 2021

According to the literature, postoperative complications and associated purulent-inflammatory processes occur in 35-60 % of patients, which increases the rates of postoperative mortality to 25 %. The main purpose of our work was to evaluate the effectiveness of the application of the polymeric film «biodep-nano» in the prevention of secondary infection of wounds in patients with hemodialysis. Methods. The results of treatment of 36 patients divided into two groups were analyzed: the main group (18 patients) with applied traditional gauze dressings and the experimental group (18 patients) with additionally applied biodep-nano polymer films (Pat. No. 110594 Ukraine, MPK 2016.01, biodegradable polymer film «biodep-nano» is produced as «Hygienic and prophylactic. Biodegradable polymer film «Biodep-nano» of 50 g according to TU U 20.4-2950221612-001: 2017». Statistical data processing was performed using Student's t-test, 5 % (p≤0.05). Results. The results obtained showed that the temperature of the study area in the main group came to normal on the 3rd day (2.8±0.2 days), and in the group where traditional methods were used – on the 5-7th (5.9±0.4) day, (p<0.05). Reduction of tissue edema by an average of 3.8±1.2 days, and in the control group by an average of 6.1±1.7 days, (p<0.05). With regard to hyperemia, it gradually decreased and in the main group was up to 3.9±2.1 days on an average, and in the control group by 6.0±1.9 days (p<0.05). In the main group, the appearance of purulent discharge was observed in 1 patient, in the control group in 4 cases. The statistical calculations showed a significant statistical difference in the reduction of inflammatory process in both groups. Conclusions. The use of new methods and means of preventing secondary infections after surgery in patients with hemodialysis will enable to carry out dialysis of patients, shorten their stay in the clinic and save lives.
Immunological reactivity of the patient’s body with acute pancreatitis depending on its genesis
Authors: S. I. Ivashchuk
Published: December 2021

In order to study the features of pathogenesis and pathophysiological mechanisms of the immunological reactivity efficiency of patients with acute pancreatitis, considering the etiological factor, we have examined 189 patients. In patients with biliary pancreatitis immunological reactivity increased by 56,86 % with the reduction of nonspecific antiinfectious by-protection by 47,72 %, while for alcoholic pancreatitis the reduction of activity as nonspecific (by 71,36 %) and specific immune (in 2,35 times) anti-infective defense is observed.
Evaluation of local immunity and level of endogenous intoxication in patients with generalized periodontitis and concomitant chlamydia infection
Authors: O. P. Kobryn
Published: December 2021

It is defined the differences between the state of non-specific organism’s resistance and the level of endogenous intoxication in patients with generalized periodontitis (GP) and concomitant chlamydia infection. A thorough laboratory examination of 164 patients with GP of I and II stages of chronic course was conducted. To study the protective properties of periodontal tissue, nature of inflammatory response, level of phagocytosis we used the Yasinovskiy’s test (calculated migration of leukocytes in the oral cavity), we determined the concentration of lysozyme and secretory immunoglobulin A levels in oral fluid. In order to determine the overall redox activity of neutrophils we determined the rate of NBT test in peripheral blood and leukocytic intoxication index have been calculated from the results of complete blood count with the help of special formula. Taking into account the results of laboratory examination of patients, we found that the presence of chronic chlamydial infection damages the periodontal tissues greatly. More expressed lesion is confirmed by the increasing number of leukocytes emigration in 1.67 times, desquamation of epithelial cells - 1.25 times), decreased levels of lysozyme in 1.19 times and sIgA - to 1.22 times, the increasing of the level of endogenous intoxication, increasing of the total redox activity of neutrophils compared with those patients without comorbidity.
Influence of insulin resistance on the structural and functional state of myocardium of the left ventricle in males with uncomplicated hypertension
Authors: M. Y. Kolesnyk
Published: December 2021

The influence of insulin resistance on structural and functional state of the myocardium in 172 males with uncomplicated hypertension has been analyzed. The patients with high insulin resistance (HOMA index was above median) have higher left atrium dimension and tend to concentric remodeling of the left ventricle. Patients with high index HOMA values have echocardiographic signs of increased left ventricle filling pressure after exercise.
Cytokine status and matrix metalloproteinase-9 in patients with cardiorenal syndrome with chronic heart failure and type 2 diabetes
Authors: A. V. Narizhna  , P. G. Kravchun  , N. G. Ryndina
Published: December 2021

The aim is to assess the existence and nature of the relationship between cytokine status on the basis of the determination of pro-inflammatory IL-1β, anti-IL-10, the functional state of the kidneys and the indicator fibrolysis MMP-9 in patients with CRS against the background of chronic heart failure and 2 diabetes type. The imbalance in the system of cytokines was associated with hyperactivity of antifibrotic factor MMP-9 in patients with CRS with a chronic heart failure and type 2 diabetes as a background. High levels of MMP-9 are involved in disorders of the functional state of kidneys, more pronounced changes in the tubulointerstitial component less - tubular. Study is to determine the prospects predictor’s values of MMP-9 in progress of CRS with the background of CHF and type 2 diabetes.
The ultrastructure of capillaries endotheliocytes in muscular tissue after progenitor fetal liver cells transplantation in patients with chronic limb ischemia
Authors: R. V. Saliutin  , S. S. Palianytsia  , O. V. Buslovych  , V. M. Bogolepov
Published: December 2021

The failure to perform reconstructive-restorative surgical interventions in distal arterial lesions, justifies the necessity to search and develop indirect methods of revascularization. One of the promising methods is the use of cell transplantation to activate the reparation and angiogenesis processes in the affected limb. The results of carried out preclinical studies with modeled ischemia in laboratory animals have shown significant activation of angiogenesis after transplantation of progenitor fetal liver stem cells. Consequently, the cell transplantation has been performed in patients with chronic limb ischemia. Using the electron microscopy techniques it was proved that at the ultrastructural level of endotheliocytes of capillaries in muscular tissue, cell transplantation contributes to substantial activation of angiogenesis in patients with chronic limb ischemia, and is a promising method of indirect revascularization.
Comparison of plasmapheresis efficacy and complex antioxidant therapy in patients with comorbid course of chronic pancreatitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: O. S. Khukhlina  , O. O. Ursul  , V. S. Smandych
Published: December 2021

60 patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and chronic pancreatitis (CP) were examined in the dynamics of treatment. The complex therapy of patients with COPD and CP including inhalation therapy with Thiotropium bromide, Serrathiopeptidase and Emoxypin promoted reduced intensity of oxidative stress, restoration of antioxidant protective components activity and natural detoxication system, intensified the activity of enzymatic, Hagemmandependant fibrinolysis and collagenosis, improving the processes of microcirculation, elimination of ischemia and swelling of the pancreatic tissue, quick removal of clinical exacerbation signs of the underlying disease and comorbid diseases. According to the correction degree of enzyme deviation syndrome in the blood, intensity of nitrositic stress and endogenic intoxication in patients with COPD and CP, the effect of 30-day intake of Serrathiopeptidase and 15-day intake of Emoxypin is equal to the efficacy of five plasmapheresis sessions.
The problem of cognitive impairment in neurological practice (reference review)
Authors: T. I. Purdenko
Published: December 2021

The article presents an analysis of the literature on the problem of cognitive disorders. It is in old age, when vascular and neurodegenerative diseases of the brain are most frequently diagnosed, leading to cognitive disorders of varying severity: from mild to severe. Early diagnosis of cerebral diseases increases significantly the chances of success of treatment to the problem.
SENSITIVITAS INVESTASI STUDI KASUS PADA PENINGKATAN KAPASITAS PABRIK GULA SRAGI PT.PERKEBUNAN NUSANTARA IX
Authors: Puspasari Dyah , Suwandhi
Published: December 2021

This study aims to determine the sensitivity of the increase or decrease in the selling price of sugar and drops, then the investment value, and the cost of production to the IRR obtained from the investment decision to increase the capacity of the Sragi Sugar Factory. Hypothesis testing is carried out on the results of the calculation of investment analysis which includes several commonly used parameters, namely Net present value (NPV), Internal rate of return (IRR), Profitability Index (PI), and Payback Period (PP), in this case as a comparison used The results of the IRR calculation. The results of the sensitivity study found that the selling price has the highest sensitivity, then the second is the investment value, while the cost of goods manufactured has the lowest sensitivity. The results of tests carried out on three parameters show that there is a significant change between the Selling Price, Investment Value and Cost of Production with the calculation of the IRR of an investment.
Updating 3D Planning Data based on Detected Differences between Real and Planning Data of Building Interiors[
Authors: Andreas Dietze , Grimm Paul , Jung Yvonne
Published: December 2021

This paper presents a system to determine differences between 3D reconstructed interiors and their corresponding 3D planning data with the aim of correcting identified differences and updating the 3D planning data based on these deviations. Therefore, a point-based comparison algorithm was developed with which deviations can be recognized regardless of the topology of the data used. Usually, resolution and topology of a 3D reconstruction do not match the CAD data. Here, our solution overcomes this problem by segmenting and extracting objects relevant for comparison (e.g., doors, windows) from the reconstruction and planning data separately with a subsequent analysis of the proximity of these objects to connected walls within the corresponding data set. Starting from the connection points of a segmented object to its walls, adjacent spatial data is located for a correction of detected differences to update the 3D planning data. The quality of the result of the developed process is shown in different examples localizing doors and windows to find deviations. In addition, detected differences between the planning and the measurement data are visualized and compared with the ground truth state of the building interior.