bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DIABETES MELLITUS AND ITS COMPLICATIONS: THE CURRENT STATE. Analytical review
Authors:   Russian Research Institute of Health, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, Tsybikova Erzheny , Kotlovskiy Mikhail ,   Russian Research Institute of Health, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia, Kaigorodova Tatyana ,   Russian Research Institute of Health, Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russia
Published: August 2024

Significance. Over the past 40 years, the number of patients with diabetes has quadrupled worldwide and today stands at more than 500 million people. Despite the emergence of innovative treatments and technologies, as well as growing political support for measures aimed at combating diabetes in many countries of the world, the health indicators of patients with diabetes are not improving. The purpose of the study was to analyze and summarize approaches to assessing the problem of diabetes mellitus and its complications in different countries of the world in modern conditions. Material and methods. Relevant literary sources were retrieved from the following databases: PubMed, Google Scholar, Elibrary. Results. Currently, the main reason for a widespread prevalence of diabetes mellitus in many countries of the world is the rapid population growth, especially in the age groups of 45 years. In low- and middle-income countries, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus is growing faster than in high-income countries. Despite the emergence of innovative technologies and improved methods for the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes mellitus, patient health indicators are not improving. Diabetes mellitus belongs to the category of chronic incurable diseases and its course is characterized by the development of severe complications such as diabetic nephropathy, cardiovascular complications, diabetic foot syndrome, retinopathy and others. In this regard, patients with diabetes mellitus are much more likely to visit doctors, as well as emergency departments. Hospitalization of patients with diabetes mellitus is due to the developed severe complications, and many of them are subject to repeated hospitalizations, often twice or more during a year. Patients with diabetes mellitus make up a significant proportion of those aged ≥55 years who are in nursing homes. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is also the highest among patients aged 65-74 years who receive medical care at home. In connection with the above, the medical expenses of patients with diabetes mellitus are significantly higher than among people without diabetes, associated with the loss of income due to disability. Diabetes mellitus ranks seventh among the leading causes of death and places a heavy economic and financial burden on the public health system. Conclusion. The systematization of research on diabetes mellitus and its complications in different countries of the world in modern conditions will expand the range of proposals for improving the effectiveness of treatment of diabetes and its complications in Russia. Scope of application. The results can be used by researchers in the field of public health.
SOCIAL DISEASES IN UDMURTIA AND THEIR CONTROL IN THE 1920S
Authors:   Udmurt State Agrarian University, Uvarov Sergey
Published: August 2024

Significance. The topic is understudied, although the spread of social diseases had a pronounced national specificity and increased mortality in Udmurtia. The purpose of the study was to review specifics of social diseases in Udmurtia and activities of health authorities to control them in the 1920s. Material and methods. The sources included statistical materials and unpublished records of various government bodies of Udmurtia. Both general scientific (analysis, synthesis) and special methods (historical-genetic, historical-comparative) were used. Results. The prevalence rates of trachoma, tuberculosis, syphilis, and drunkenness in Udmurtia were much higher than the all-Russia/all-Union rates. To a large extent, this situation was due to the Udmurts, who leaded in terms of the prevalence of social diseases in the country. In particular, at the end of the 1920s every second Udmurt was affected by trachoma. Slightly less than half of all syphilitics and almost two-thirds of patients with gonorrhea also belonged to the titular nation of the region. In terms of moonshine consumption, the countryside, dominated by the Udmurts, was significantly ahead of the villages in other regions. The main reasons for the prevalence of social diseases among the Udmurts were as follows. The unsanitary conditions they lived in contributed to a widespread of trachoma and domestic syphilis. In addition, sexually transmitted diseases among the Udmurts were mainly associated with premarital sexual promiscuity. A spread of Tuberculosis was due to cramped living conditions. The consumption of kumyshka was of a ritual significance, turning into a tradition. Conclusion. The study shows that efforts undertaken in the 1920s were insufficient to eradicate social diseases. However, the active struggle waged by health authorities stabilized the situation.
GENDER AND AGE DYNAMICS in urban MORTALITY FROM DISEASES OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM DURING THE PANDEMIC
Authors:   Medical Information and Analytical Center of the Irkutsk region, Irkutsk, Russia, Bobkova Elena ,   East-Siberian Institute of Medical and Ecological Research, Angarsk, Russia
Published: August 2024

Significance. Mortality from cardiovascular diseases is the most important cause of death globally, requiring its analysis in order to select the optimal program to reduce it. The purpose of the study: to identify characteristics of mortality from diseases of the circulatory system during a pandemic, depending on gender and age, exemplified by the city of Bratsk. Material and methods. Mortality rates from cardiovascular diseases in Bratsk have been analyzed with a breakdown on gender and age, (20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70-79, 80 years and older). The statistical tables "C51" "Distribution of the deceased by sex and age group and cause of death" of the Territorial Body of the Federal State Statistics Service for the Irkutsk region were studied. A comparative analysis of the indicators in the reference year of 2017 and in the conditions of the pandemic of a new coronavirus infection - 2021 was carried out using Fisher angular transformation and t criterion χ2 Results. In 2021, in Bratsk, the mortality rates due to diseases of the circulatory system amounted to 897.3 per 100,000 population, which is 48.3% higher than in 2017 (605.2 о/оооо) and 26.8% more than in the Irkutsk region (707.4 о/оооо in 2021). A change in the sex and age structure of mortality from cardiovascular diseases by year was identified: a background indicator of the proportion of dead men equaled to 52.2% of the total number of deaths, against 47.2% in women; while in the pandemic period it reached 44.7%, against 55.3%, respectively (p<0.001). When analyzing a monthly dynamics in mortality in 2021, excessive mortality is registered in men in May in the age group of 30 - 69 years and in July in the age group of 50 years and older, and in women aged 40 - 69 in April and aged 30 to 59 in June. During the period from October to December, an increase in mortality from cardiovascular diseases is recorded in men in the age group from 20 to 79 years, and in women over 40 years. Conclusion. Thus, the increase in mortality during the pandemic compared with the reference level is due to the increase in the number of deaths among males aged 30-39 and 50-69 in January, July and November, and among females over 70 in May, October and December.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN EATING HABITS AND DISEASES AMONG RESIDENTS OF THE ARCTIC REGIONS OF YAKUTIA (based on the survey data)
Authors:   Republican Center for Public Health and Medical Prevention, Yakutsk, Russia, Nikitina Alena , Savvina Nadezhda ,   North-Eastern Federal University named after М.К. Ammosov, Medical Institute, Yakutsk, Russia, Golderova Aitalina ,   North-Eastern Federal University named after М.К. Ammosov, Medical Institute, Yakutsk, Russia
Published: August 2024

Significance. Objective health indicators of northerners are worse than those of residents of more southern regions. Nutrition, as a long-term factor affecting health, deserves a higher attention: it should not only be complete, balanced, appropriate for physical activity and gender, but also take into account climatic and geographical living conditions, national characteristics and habits. The purpose of the study is to analyze the relationship between eating habits and morbidity among residents of the two Arctic regions of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) based on sociological survey data. Material and methods. A survey was conducted among 180 residents aged 21 - 78 of the following two Arctic regions: Verkhoyansk (n=106) and Eveno-Bytantaysky (n=74) regions Results. A diet of the residents of these Arctic regions is characterized by frequent consumption of red meat, baked goods, pasta, as well as a low content of fiber (vegetables and fruits) and sour-milk products in the diet. A high nutritional imbalance, as well as the incidence of diseases, is most pronounced among residents of the Eveno-Bytantaysky district. Negative correlations have been identified between the consumption of vegetables (except for potatoes) and the following diseases: hyperthyroidism, cataracts, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, gastric ulcer, epilepsy, and rheumatoid arthritis. Conclusion. It is necessary to monitor eating habits of the population and their associations with other characteristics (socio-demographic or clinical indicators) on an ongoing basis.
Digitally twin driven ship cooling pump fault monitoring system and application case
Authors:   Naval Architecture and Ocean Engineering College, Dalian Maritime University, 116026, Dalian, Liaoning, China, Su Shaojuan , Miao Zhe , Zhao Yong , Song Nanzhe
Published: August 2024

The rise of digital twin technology has provided innovative methods for monitoring and optimizing ship cooling pumps. This paper proposes a digital twin-based framework for the status monitoring and visualization of ship cooling pumps. By establishing highly realistic physical and mathematical models and integrating actual operational data, a comprehensive virtual environment was created to simulate the operational status of ship cooling pumps. Using the random forest algorithm for data training and testing, the results showed that the root mean square error for the training set was 0.0037873, and for the test set, it was 0.008929, indicating high accuracy in predicting the status of cooling pumps. This system enables real-time monitoring, problem diagnosis, performance optimization, and decision support for cooling pumps. This study aims to leverage digital twin technology to design and apply a visualization monitoring system to enhance the intelligence of ship operation and maintenance.
Assessing the Impact of Frailty on Infection Risk in Older Adults: Prospective Observational Cohort Study
Authors: Yang Ya , Che Kechun , Deng Jiayan , Tang Xinming , Jing Wenyuan , He Xiuping , Yang Jiacheng , Zhang Wenya , Yin Mingjuan , Pan Congcong , Huang Xiaoling , Zhang Zewu , Ni Jindong
Published: August 2024

Background

Infectious diseases are among the leading causes of death and disability and are recognized as a major cause of health loss globally. At the same time, frailty as a geriatric syndrome is a rapidly growing major public health problem. However, few studies have investigated the incidence and risk of infectious diseases in frail older people. Thus, research on frailty and infectious diseases is urgently needed.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between frailty and infectious diseases among older adults aged 65 years and older.

Methods

In this prospective observational cohort study, we have analyzed the infectious disease prevalence outcomes of older adults aged 65 years and older who participated in frailty epidemiological surveys from March 1, 2018, to March 2023 in Dalang Town, Dongguan City, and from March 1, 2020, to March 2023 in Guancheng Street, Dongguan City. This study has an annual on-site follow-up. Incidence data for infectious diseases were collected through the Chinese Disease Control and Prevention Information System—Infectious Disease Monitoring and Public Health Emergency Monitoring System. A project-developed frailty assessment scale was used to assess the frailty status of study participants. We compared the incidence rate ratios (IRR) of each disease across frailty status, age, and gender to determine the associations among frailty, gender, age, and infectious diseases. Cox proportional hazards regression was conducted to identify the effect of frailty on the risk of demographic factors and frailty on the risk of infectious diseases, with estimations of the hazard ratio and 95% CI.

Results

A total of 235 cases of 12 infectious diseases were reported during the study period, with an incidence of 906.21/100,000 person-years in the frailty group. In the same age group, the risk of infection was higher in men than women. Frail older adults had a hazard ratio for infectious diseases of 1.50 (95% CI 1.14‐1.97) compared with healthy older adults. We obtained the same result after sensitivity analyses. For respiratory tract–transmitted diseases (IRR 1.97, 95% CI 1.44‐2.71) and gastrointestinal tract–transmitted diseases (IRR 3.67, 95% CI 1.39‐10.74), frail older adults are at risk. Whereas no significant association was found for blood-borne, sexually transmitted, and contact-transmitted diseases (IRR 0.76, 95% CI 0.37‐1.45).

Conclusions

Our study provides additional evidence that frailty components are significantly associated with infectious diseases. Health care professionals must pay more attention to frailty in infectious disease prevention and control.
Identifying Intersecting Factors Associated with Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors among Transgender and Gender Diverse Adults: A Conditional Inference Tree Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Stanton Amelia M. , Trichtinger Lauren A, , Kirakosian Norik , Kabel Katherine E. , Bettis Alexandra H. , O’Cleirigh Conall , Liu Richard T. , Liu Qimin
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

Transgender and gender diverse (TGD) individuals are disproportionately impacted by suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs), and intersecting demographic and psychosocial factors may contribute to STB disparities.

OBJECTIVE

In the U.S. Transgender Population Health Survey (N=274), we identified intersecting factors associated with increased risk for suicidal ideation, intent, plan, and attempts; and age of onset for each outcome using conditional inference trees.

METHODS

This approach iteratively partitions samples into subgroups of greater homogeneity with respect to a specific outcome. In separate analyses, we (1) restricted variables to those typically available within electronic medical records (EMRs) and (2) expanded the variable set to include factors not typically within EMRs.

RESULTS

In restricted analyses, younger adults endorsed more frequent ideation, intent, and planning, with intersecting younger age and receiving public assistance associated with increased ideation; no variables were associated with previous suicide attempts. Ages of onset for ideation, plan, and attempts were associated with the intersections of age and gender identity, sexual minority identity, and receiving public assistance. In expanded analyses, psychiatric distress was associated with ideation, intent, and planning, but not attempts. High distress intersecting with high healthcare stereotype threat (HST) was associated with increased ideation, with younger age and lower income exacerbating risk. High discrimination was associated with past attempts, with lower discrimination increasing risk in the context of high HST. Ages of onset for ideation, plan, and attempts were associated with intersecting age, distress, and HST; distress alone, intersecting distress and HST; and intersecting HST and discrimination.

CONCLUSIONS

In this initial test of the conditional inference tree approach to identifying key subgroups with increased STB risk, risk was primarily influenced by intersecting age, distress, HST, and income. Identifying intersecting factors liked to these outcomes is vital for early detection STB risk among TGD individuals. This approach should be tested on a larger scale utilizing EMR data to facilitate service provision to TGD individuals who are at increased risk for STBs.
Effectiveness of Mobile Web Application Promoting Healthy Behaviors among Adults with Prediabetes in Muang District, Phitsanulok Province, Thailand: A Randomized Controlled Trial Study (Preprint)
Authors: Hangsantea Jariya , Arthan Dumrongkiet , Maneekan Pannamas , Saralamba Sompob , Soonthornworasiri Ngamphol
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

In Thailand, the mobile web application for diabetes prevention has been limited to conduct the effects of mobile web applications on improving healthy behaviors particularly among adults with prediabetes in urban areas. However, there have been so far no such a study for collecting and analyzing data for evaluate their achievement of any application for diabetes preventive measures in Thailand.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to examine the effects of a designed mobile web application on changes in healthy behaviors and biochemical indexes of diabetes.

METHODS

From April 1 to September 30, 2021, a randomized controlled trial study was conducted in a total of 199 volunteers with prediabetes (aged 30 to 59 years) recruited from two subdistrict health-promoting hospitals in Muang District, Phitsanulok Province, Thailand. Prediabetic patients were randomly assigned to the intervention group (n=124) who received a 6-month of the DM winner application and the control group (n=75) who received the information on diabetes prevention. Both groups were assessed for health behaviors questionnaire, anthropometry, and biochemical parameters at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months and compared by a two-way repeated-measures ANOVA analysis.

RESULTS

The results showed that there was no significant difference in physical activity between groups. However, significant differences in time effects (p=0.001) were found. The intervention group showed a significant increase in physical activity at 6 months compared to their baseline, but the control group did not. The frequent intake of high-fat food (p=0.042), fast foods (p<0.001) and soft drink (p=0.010) also significantly differed between groups. Although there were no significant differences between groups in terms of anthropometric parameters, the intervention group showed significantly reduced fasting blood sugar (FBS) (p=0.035) and significantly decreased total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) when compared to the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

The DM winner application shows promoting healthy behaviors of adults with prediabetes in urban areas. Additionally, almost all users feel very satisfaction for applications. The DM winner application can be used as an effective tool to promote and monitor healthy behaviors in order to prevent the risk of diabetes in urban areas.

CLINICALTRIAL

Thai Clinical Trials Registry (TCTR) number TCTR20240716006; https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/show/TCTR20240716006.
GPT-4 as a Virtual Fitness Coach: An Evaluation of Its Effectiveness in Providing Weight Loss and Fitness Guidance (Preprint)
Authors: Zhang Guodong , Li Guanchong , Li Hansen , Su Yuqin , Li Yun
Published: August 2024

UNSTRUCTURED

Background: With obesity posing an increasing public health challenge, the demand for personalized weight loss and fitness solutions has intensified. Given advancements in artificial intelligence, like GPT-4, this study evaluates its effectiveness as a virtual fitness coach for creating personalized plans.

Method: We selected a 24-year-old female from Chongqing, China, providing detailed personal information. Using this, both GPT-4 and three local professional coaches formulated 16-week fitness plans. Senior health science experts evaluated these plans across four dimensions: personalization, effectiveness, comprehensiveness, and safety. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed for analysis.

Results: GPT-4 excelled in personalization (M=12.80, SD=0.84) compared to coaches (M=11.53, SD=0.46). However, coaches slightly outperformed in effectiveness (GPT-4: M=12.60; Coaches: M=12.80), safety (GPT-4: M=12.20; Coaches: M=12.33), and comprehensiveness (GPT-4: M=12.00; Coaches: M=12.13), with no significant differences (P > .05). These findings highlight comparable performance but suggest potential for GPT-4 in personalized exercise prescriptions.

Conclusions: GPT-4 shows promise as a virtual fitness coach for personalized weight loss and fitness guidance. Yet, due to technological constraints, it cannot fully replace human coaches. Future research should explore enhancing AI models' applicability in sports and their collaboration with coaches for optimal personalized fitness solutions.
Preliminary validation of the Therapy Mode Preference Scale: Evaluating comparative effectiveness of virtual and in-person mental health care (Preprint)
Authors: Cerrito Brianna , Xiao Jamie , Fialk Amanda , Buono Frank
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

The use of virtual mental healthcare increased rapidly in 2020 as a critical response to the COVID-19 pandemic, effectively serving as a contact-free alternative to receiving treatment. While virtual care remains a viable option for individuals with geographic and physical barriers to treatment, there are several perceived therapeutic disadvantages (e.g., missing nonverbal signals, handling crises, confidentiality, weakened social connection in group therapy).

OBJECTIVE

The present study sought to develop and validate a survey designed to measure effectiveness of virtual therapy versus in-person treatment across key therapeutic factors (i.e., therapeutic alliance, engagement, rapport, confidentiality).

METHODS

An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was conducted to understand factor structure, and Cronbach’s alpha was utilized to determine internal consistency. Incremental validity was demonstrated through a hierarchical linear regression.

RESULTS

The EFA revealed a three-dimensional factor structure. Three factors accounted for 61% of the variance and preliminary Cronbach’s alpha (α =0.71) indicates a satisfactory level of internal consistency. Hierarchical linear regression indicated that the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire (CSQ) accounts for additional variance in the Therapy Mode Preference Scale (TMPS).

CONCLUSIONS

Continual research is warranted to expand the current findings, by validating this standardized tool for assessing the therapeutic impact of virtual versus in-person care in a generalizable population.
Perceptions and Acceptance of Online Learning During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Study Among Medical Students and Teachers (Preprint)
Authors: Ezzi Sohaib , ALHASKAWI AHMAD , Zhou Haiying , Dong Yanzhao , Wang Zewei , Lai Jingtian , Wu Ziheng , Lu Hui
Published: August 2024

BACKGROUND

The international recognition of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has prompted Chinese institutions to implement online learning. However, the actual responses of teachers and students to online education remain unknown.

OBJECTIVE

to test the impact of pandemic on teachers and students mental health and learning ability.

METHODS

: An online questionnaire survey was conducted, among medical students and teachers of Universities and colleges in Zhejiang. The questionnaires investigated the participants actual opinions on online learning and teaching

RESULTS

A total of 1036 valid interviewees were involved in the present study, 478 males (46.1%) and 558 females (53.9%), including 155 teachers (15%) and 881 students (85%) (Chinese and international). The participants' age was divided into five categories 18 – 25 (62.2%), 26-30 (15.3%), 31-35 (12.7%), 36-40 (3.9%), and above 40 5.9%). The results reflected that teachers and students encouraged e-learning education during the pandemic as most of them could be adapted to the recent teaching style. They indicated that usage of electronic devices was very good (32.2%), and the internet connection during online classes was excellent, especially for Chinese students (32.5%). In addition, the majority of teachers and students responded to questions like “was the online communication easy and effective” was “yes” (54.20% teachers vs. 44.50% students), “what is the preferred method of communication during online learning” as “face-to-face communication (video call)” (43.90% teachers vs. 33.70% students), and “do you think learning or teaching the same as you were before the COVID-19 pandemic” as “somewhat” (49.70% teachers vs. 39.70% students). Furthermore, lockdown and quarantine were one of the concerns of the pandemic, especially for participants who traveled for their study (34.80% teachers vs. 25.20% students). On the other hand, there was a significant change in gender between Chinese and international interviewees as the Chinese females were more than international ones (58.9% Chinese vs. 45.7%) . In contrast, the international males were more than the Chinese ones (41.1% Chinese vs. 54.3% international). Additionally, international participants showed that the main struggle during the pandemic was the online classes (30.10% Chinese vs. 34.20% foreigners).

CONCLUSIONS

most instructors and students supported online education. Although teachers were less adaptive to online education, many still had favorable evaluations. The acceptability of online instruction was affected by sexual orientation.
Ecological Civilization Education Promotes the Modernization of Ecological Civilization
Authors: Fan Hongmin , Zhang Yudie
Published: August 2024

Ecological civilization education is an educational action that cultivates people to form ecological civilization concepts and behaviors. It has the characteristics of human nature, inclusiveness, spirituality, practicality, and process, and can promote the modernization of human beings, natural environment, and human civilization. It is the educational foundation for realizing the modernization of ecological civilization. The implementation of ecological civilization education can be carried out from the aspects of awakening and strengthening the sense of main responsibility of ecological civilization education, constructing and carrying out immersive practical experiences of ecological civilization education, exploring and forming the characteristics of the development of the entire chain of ecological civilization education, etc., thereby assisting the modernization construction of ecological civilization and the formation of new forms of human civilization.
STATE IDENTITY IN THE CONSTITUTIONS OF EUROPEAN COUNTRIES
Authors: Mikić Vladimir
Published: August 2024

The provisions on the state identity of individual countries in Europe are usually set out in the introductory articles of their constitutions. These provisions are usually concise, comprising only a brief designation of state identity, but some constitutions include more extensive descriptions. State identity is primarily defined by referring to its form of government, but also by explicit claims pertaining to its democratic system, social justice, national independence, sovereignty, and the rule of law. Constitutions also specify that some European countries are nation-states, while others are civic states. In constitutions, states are also designated as unitary states or federations. Some European states recognize that their constitutional identity is, among other elements, based on the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms. In most cases, there is a combination of plural components of a state’s identity, but the number of those elements may vary immensely.
(IM)PERMISSIBILITY OF AMENDING THE EMPLOYMENT CONTRACT IN THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF A CHANGE OF EMPLOYER
Authors: Dragićević Marija
Published: August 2024

The employer and the employee voluntarily enter into an employment contract, mutually agreeing on its content and essential elements, and accordingly undertaking to perform it in its entirety as it reads. However, in case of circumstances that make the obligations of one contracting party difficult to fulfill, or in case the employment contract no longer meets the expectations of the contracting parties, labour legislation recognizes the possibility of amending the employment contract. The institute of amending the employment contract contributes to establishing a balance between the originally concluded employment contract and the circumstances that occurred after its conclusion. The difficulty of establishing a fair balance of the above interests is further complicated if the request to amend the employment contract is made in the circumstances of a change of employer. Then, the question arises whether it is permissible to amend the employment contract at all if the reason for amending the change in the legal identity of the employer, and if so, whether there are certain conditions for its validity and which aspects of the employment relationship could be subject to change. In this paper, the author addresses these and other related questions by analyzing legal solutions, judicial practice and the doctrine.
CHILD TRAFFICKING IN MEDIA REPORTING IN SERBIA
Authors: Stojadinović Zorica
Published: August 2024

This paper explores the correlation between child trafficking and the media discourse on child trafficking. Child trafficking is one of the most widespread forms of organized crime where potential victims are children as a particularly vulnerable category of persons. Media are communication and information tools which play an important role in reporting about different events and phenomena and creating an image about them among the general public. The author of this paper analyzes 100 media reports published in the most widely read printed and electronic media in the Republic of Serbia in order to respond to several questions: a) whether the media in Serbia responsibly and ethically report on this important issue; b) whether they use their power and influence to exert an impact on the suppression, prevention, and raising awareness among the general public; and c) whether they are actively employed as a tool in the fight against child trafficking. The analysis includes quantitative and qualitative analysis of media texts, classified according to media genres, quantitative analysis based on the reported topics and reasons for reporting, and the countries which the media reports refer to, as well as a comparative quantitative analysis of media reports based on official statistical data about the methods of child exploitation, victims’ gender, and internal and foreign child trafficking.
THE HANDBOOK ON FEMALE CRIMINALITY IN THE FORMER YUGOSLAV COUNTRIES
Authors: Mirić Filip
Published: August 2024

Book Review
LEGAL ASPECTS OF IMPLEMENTING DIGITAL SIGNATURES IN PAPERLESS BANKING
Authors: Kadrić Sead , Rašljanin Imran
Published: August 2024

Integrating electronic signatures into paperless banking projects offers a transformative opportunity to streamline transactions and increase efficiency. However, this innovation is not devoid of legal challenges, especially within the framework of the eIDAS Regulation. This article examines the key legal hurdles encountered when implementing electronic signatures in paperless banking under the eIDAS Regulation. We examine the following topics: the legal validity of electronic signatures, the identification and authentication of signatories, and the establishment of secure electronic signature systems that comply with eIDAS requirements, as well as the liability and evidentiary considerations associated with electronic transactions. We highlight the need for financial institutions to put in place robust mechanisms to ensure compliance with eIDAS standards while navigating the complex legal landscape surrounding electronic signatures in paperless banking. By addressing these challenges, financial institutions can realize the full potential of electronic signatures to revolutionize the banking industry while maintaining legal integrity and regulatory compliance.
SELECTION OF FORKLIFT UNIT FOR TRANSPORT HANDLING USING INTEGRATED MCDM UNDER NEUTROSOPHIC ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Chakraborty Sayanta , Saha Apu Kumar
Published: August 2024

In material handling, warehousing, manufacturing and construction applications, forklifts are vital equipment, which are used to engage, lift and move palletized items. So, selection of the most appropriate forklift is an essential task for transportation of materials in warehouses for optimal use of the equipment. The present treatise introduces a well-known multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) technique, namely fully consistent method (FUCOM) under neutrosophic environment (NE) to model and solve the problem of selecting the best forklift for warehouse. In this regard, the linguistic assessments of the criteria have been represented in terms of single valued triangular neutrosophic numbers (SVTNNs). A novel triangular neutrosphic score function and ranking function are also proposed. To calculate criteria weights, a novel SVTN linear programming problem (SVTNLPP) has been developed. The alternatives have been ranked through multi-objective optimization on the basis of ratio analysis (MOORA). The robustness, consistency and reliability of the proposed integrated method have been checked through comparative and sensitivity analyses. This study makes a significant contribution by developing an original integrated model which provides warehousing system managers a quantifiable analysis, based on which they may make future decisions in order to improve the overall efficiency of the organization in transport handling.
MECHANICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF NANO-CRYSTALLINE MATERIAL IN METALLIC GLASS FORMERS
Authors: Al-Abboodi Hamid , Fan Huiqing , Al-Bahrani Mohammed , Abdelhussien Abdelsalam , Mohamad Barhm
Published: August 2024

In order to evaluate the model metallic glass alloy’s mechanical properties (Fe49.7 Cr17.1 Mn1.9 Mo7.4 W1.6 B15.2 C3.8 Si2.4) prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS) which have high velocity.  We made an apparatus having three-point curve testing. The comparatively bulk sizes of sample in the current study permitted the creation samples for test with a macro scale cross-section (range of mm) consistent test dimensions, and well-controlled sample sizes. Cutting using a wire saw produced remarkably sharp notches with a radius that was 3 times smaller than in earlier studies. Our three-point bending apparatus allowed us to acquire the 231 GPa and 4.91 MPam1/2 values for notch fracture toughness and young's modulus. Additionally, the results of the Vickers indentation and flexure tests for young's modulus were reliable. Vickers indentation measurements of indentation fracture toughness produced values that were a minimum of 49.9% lower than those obtained flexure using. The method for examine micro scale mechanical properties described in this study and the accompanying scrutinizes are valid to samples with different ones or compositions that are made by further means.
DESIGN METHODOLOGY AND CHARACTERISTICS ANALYSIS OF HIGH-ORDER MULTI-SEGMENT DEFORMED ECCENTRIC NON-CIRCULAR GEAR
Authors: Zhao Huacheng , Chen Jianneng , Xu Gaohuan
Published: August 2024

A novel gear mechanism named high-order multi-segment deformed eccentric non-circular gear was proposed for achieving the unification of non-circular gears with typical-form pitch curve and non-circular gears with free-form pitch curve. The transmission mechanism of the high-order multi-segment deformed eccentric non-circular gear was analyzed, and the unified mathematical expression of eccentric gears was established. The non-circular gears with free-form pitch curve could be constructed based on the proposed high-order multi-segment deformed eccentric non-circular gear by changing the parameters. Moreover, the transmission characteristics were discussed, such as the transmission ratio relationship, convexity distinguished conditions, curvature radius of pitch curve. The visual design and simulation software and generation software of tooth profile for non-circular gears are compiled based on MATLAB, and was verified with the example. This novelty gear was applied to the drive mechanism of the metering pump. The mathematical model of non-circular gear-crank slider mechanism is established and the 3D model and virtual prototype experiment of the mechanism are accomplished. The application showed that the high-order multi-segment deformed eccentric non-circular gears were feasible in practice.
CARBON NANOTUBE UNDER PULSED PRESSURE
Authors: Ilgamov Marat A. , Aitbaeva Aigul A. , Pavlov Igor S. , Dmitriev Sergey V.
Published: August 2024

The radial dynamics of a single-walled zigzag carbon nanotube under pulsed pressure is studied. Uniform external pressure is applied instantly, then remains constant for a certain time, and then is instantly released. This loading scheme allows one to consider a carbon nanotube under plane strain conditions and replace it with a circular ring formed by one zigzag row of carbon atoms. The bending deformation of the ring in its plane is described by an equation based on the Kirchhoffs hypothesis. An effective parameter is used, including the bending stiffness of the ring and areal density. The regimes of oscillatory motion and exponential growth of radial displacements are investigated depending on the magnitude and duration of the applied pressure. Alternatively, the ring is analyzed in terms of a molecular dynamics model with a reduced number of degrees of freedom, taking into account the plane strain conditions. With the help of molecular dynamics, the limits of the thin shell theory are established. For (n, 0) CNTs with n > 15, in the regime of small-amplitude vibrations, the discrepancy between the continuum model and molecular dynamics calculations does not exceed 5% and decreases with increasing n.
NONLINEAR DYNAMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF HYBRID TRI-STABLE PIEZOELECTRIC ENERGY HARVESTER BASED ON ROTATIONAL MOTION
Authors: Man Da-Wei , Zhang Yu , Tang Li-Ping , Xu Qing-Hu , Chen Dong , Jiang Bang-Dong , Han Ting-Ting , Xu Tao , Li Jin-Bao
Published: August 2024

The paper presents an improved hybrid tri-stable cantilever piezoelectric energy harvester based on rotational motion, thus providing a new perspective for achieving higher efficiency in energy capture for rotational motion. The proposed system comprises a piezoelectric cantilever beam with an innovative dynamic amplifier installed at the edge of a vehicle's wheel hub. Through theoretical analysis and numerical simulations, the influence of parameters such as the mass of the tip magnetic on the piezoelectric beam, the wheel hub radius, rotational speed, and the ratio of the dynamic amplifier's spring stiffness are investigated with respect to the system's steady-state dynamic response and time-domain performance. A comparative analysis is also conducted with traditional tri-stable piezoelectric energy harvesters. The results demonstrate that the hybrid tri-stable piezoelectric energy harvester exhibits superior performance in capturing vibrational energy during rotational motion, compared to traditional tri-stable piezoelectric energy harvesters. Proper adjustments to the mass of the tip magnetic and the internal spring stiffness of the dynamic amplifier can enhance the system's output voltage and the rotational speed range of inter-well motion. Additionally, the rotational speed range of inter-well motion increases with the expansion of the wheel hub radius. However, when the rotational speed is below 100 rpm, the influence of varying the wheel hub radius on the system's output voltage is minimal.
MULTI-OBJECTIVE OPTIMIZATION RESEARCH ON VR TASK SCENARIO DESIGN BASED ON COGNITIVE LOAD
Authors: Fu Qian-Wen , Liu Qing-Hua , Hu Tao
Published: August 2024

In order to improve the efficiency of information acquisition and task selection in Virtual Reality (VR) systems, enhance the interactive experience, and reduce cognitive load for users, it is crucial to effectively organize and leverage user cognitive psychology and design elements during the VR scene design phase. This paper focuses on analyzing the low cognitive load requirements of users and the need for a satisfactory user perceptual experience based on the cognitive resource theory. We propose a method for optimizing the design of VR system scenario tasks under low cognitive load requirements. By utilizing human-computer hybrid intelligent assistance for predicting user cognitive load and incorporating intelligent optimization genetic algorithms into the optimization of VR system design elements, we aim to minimize cognitive load as the objective function based on the principle of low cognitive load. Important knowledge granularity nodes are used as fitness functions in the optimization process of VR system design resource elements. An application study is conducted, combining the multi-channel cognition in a smart city VR system task information interface, to optimize the system resource features. The study validates and compares the solutions obtained through traditional design processes and the solutions optimized by the method proposed in this paper, using virtual reality eye-tracking experiments for the same design task requirements in VR systems. The results demonstrate that users experience lower cognitive load and better task operation experience when interacting with the optimized solutions proposed in this paper. Therefore, the optimization method studied in this paper can serve as a reference for the construction of virtual reality systems.
A FRACTAL-BASED APPROACH TO THE MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF RECYCLED AGGREGATE CONCRETES
Authors: He Chun-Hui , Liu Hua-Wei , Liu Chao
Published: August 2024

The mechanical properties of porous concrete, such as strength and durability, are significantly influenced by moisture transport, particularly in the case of recycled aggregate concretes. The pore distribution and pore size of the concrete, as well as the ambient temperature in the surrounding environment, exert a significant influence on the moisture transport. This paper establishes the fractal Fick’s law, the fractal Darcy law, and the fractal Richards equation. In conclusion, a fractal model for the diffusion and permeability in porous concrete is established. This study examines the mechanisms of moisture diffusion and water permeability in concrete. The comparison of the theoretical prediction with the experimental data indicates a high degree of congruence, thereby suggesting that the concrete’s relative humidity response can be predicted by the established model. This provides a foundation for the optimal design of concrete with required mechanical properties in special applications.
ADAPTIVE CHANGES IN BODY COMPOSITION UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF THE CORE BODY BALL PILATES TRAINING
Authors: Abohllala Ashrf Nouri , Branković Nataša , Trajković Nebojša , Stojiljković Nenad , Stamenković Stevan , Marković Sreten , Branković Suzana , Nikolić Uroš
Published: August 2024

Body composition is a fitness component closely associated with health and the efficiency of sports performance, making it an integral aspect of research in sports medicine sciences. Implementing appropriate training programs results in suitable physiological adaptations and a notable enhancement in body composition. This study determined the effectiveness of a 10-week body core training conducted on а Pilates ball on the body composition of adolescent non-athletes. The sample of 48 respondents was randomly divided into an experimental (n=24) and a control group (n=24.) The experimental group performed the ball Pilates program twice a week during regular physical education classes, while the control group carried out a standard physical and health education program. The experimental program consisted of balanced sitting exercises, stabilization endurance exercises, and dynamic exercises on a Pilates ball to strengthen the trunk stabilizer muscles. Before the beginning and at the end of the experimental period, the absolute and relative values of the body fat mass and the absolute values of the skeletal muscle mass were measured in both groups of participants. Statistically significant improvements and moderate effects were determined in all body composition parameters within the experimental group when the final measurements were compared to the initial ones. In the control group of respondents, improvements were only numerical and did not reach statistical significance. At the final measurement, statistically significant differences and moderate effects of the experimental treatment in skeletal muscle and body fat mass were determined. The findings of the study confirm the effectiveness of core body training on a Pilates ball in enhancing the body composition of adolescent non-athletes.
EXPLORING THE INTERPLAY OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY LEVELS AND QUALITY OF LIFE IN ELDERLY MEN: A MULTIDIMENSIONAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Živković Danijela , Đošić Anđela , Mijalković Stefan , Pantelić Saša
Published: August 2024

As the global population continues to age, understanding and addressing the complex interplay between physical activity (PA) and quality of life (QoL) among old people is becoming increasingly imperative. The aim of this study was to determine whether the level of PA is related to the QoL in elderly men. Using a set of eight variables of PA and four for quality of life assessment, an evaluation of physical activity and quality of life was performed on a sample of 666 senior men (67.37±5.68 years). The level of PA was measured using the IPAQ questionnaire, while the QoL was evaluated by the World Health Organization Questionnaire (WHOQoL-BREF). A canonical correlation analysis was conducted to identify any relationships. Statistical significance was set at p< .01. The results showed that statistically significant relationships were found between moderate PA and the Environmental Health domain of QoL (Sig.= .000). Additionally, relationships were found between overall Walking activity, total PA, and Leisure Physical Activity and Physical and Psychological Health, as well as Social Relationships (Sig.= .003). This study confirmed that different domains of PA are related to the quality of life in elderly men.
WHY DOES THE NEW GENERATION NEED ENGAGEMENT IN SPREADING INTERCULTURALITY INSTEAD OF ANNOUNCING THE DEATH OF MULTICULTURALISM?
Authors: Mitrović Ljubiša
Published: August 2024

In the world today, under the banner of "multiculturalism is dead", a new specter of ethnocentrism is being cycled. Its protagonists are the old and the new right and the autocratic elites who would like to divide and fight the world anew. Despite these processes, modern humanity needs a new opening, respect for cultural differences, a dialogue between and permeation of cultures, building of new bridges, connecting peoples. The new generation should be imbued with the culture of peace and planetary humanism, and as the citizens of humanity, emerging communities of equal peoples and citizens, they should represent an actor of the inevitability of interculturality in the modern world of globalization, i.e. of the future that has begun – but is now, due to class and other divisions, unfairly distributed. Shouting that multiculturalism is dead is like announcing the death of humanity, its regression to the times of tribalism, new divisions and barbarism.