bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Insomnia and Self-medication Among Pharmacists in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Aljhani Sumayah , Aljameli Shahad , AlHussan Fayzah , Almutairi Maram
Published: July 2022

Background:

Insomnia is considered one of the most common sleep disorders. One-third of the world’s population has one or more symptoms of insomnia, with 10% satisfying the criteria for clinical diagnosis.

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of insomnia among pharmacists working in Saudi Arabia and its association with self-medication.

Methods:

This is a descriptive cross-sectional study. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed online by the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties, targeting pharmacists from different working areas in Saudi Arabia. The survey included socio-demographic data, level of education, working area, and work experience; use of pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic sleeping aid; reasons for self-medication; and the Insomnia Severity Index questionnaire.

Results:

A total of 515 pharmacists participated in the study (male 53.4% vs. female 46.6%). The prevalence of clinically significant insomnia was 48.2%. Of these, 66.5% were mild, 29.8% were moderate, and 3.6% were severe. The prevalence of pharmacists currently using sleep aid medications was 22.7%. Factors associated with clinically significant insomnia were younger age (21 – 30 years), female sex, unmarried status, living in the central region, chronic diseases, history of psychiatric disorder, consultation with a health care professional, current use of sleep aid medications, and use of psychological and behavioral intervention as a sleeping aid.

Conclusion:

Insomnia is common among pharmacists in Saudi Arabia, but self-medication is uncommon. Of all pharmacists, female young adults who were not married and had a previous history of psychiatric disorders were greatly affected by insomnia and self-medicated the most.
Vigilance Needed in Treating Leprosy Patients in Accordance with
WHO’s AWaRe
Authors: Thangaraju Pugazhenthan , Velmurugan Hemasri , Yella Sree Sudha Tanguturi , Venkatesan Sajitha
Published: July 2022

Background:

Leprosy is a highly stigmatized disease that can range from a
minor skin lesion to life-threatening conditions such as deformities and disability. The
World Health Organization (WHO) has developed a tool called "Access, Watch, and Reserve"
(AWaRe) to reduce antibiotic misuse and abuse.

Aim:

The purpose of this review is to determine whether the drugs used in the leprosy
treatment regimen are complied with the AWaRe programme, in order to improve the
quality of hospital antibiotic use and reduce the incidence of antimicrobial resistance
(AMR).

Methods:

We started by looking for antibiotics that are used in the treatment and chemoprophylaxis
of leprosy, as defined by the WHO's AWaRe classification. Furthermore, we
look for studies on antibiotics that showed sensitivity or less resistance after antimicrobial
sensitivity testing (AST) on isolates from infected leprosy ulcers, as well as their
AWaRe category.

Results:

There were 32 studies found, but only 5 of them met the inclusion criteria. They
consisted of four cross-sectional studies and one descriptive retrospective study. A total
of 19 antibiotics were identified in 5 studies, with 9 (47.4%) antibiotics in the access category,
8 (42.1%) antibiotics in the watch group, and 2 (10.5%) antibiotics in the reserve
group.

Conclusion:

As per our knowledge, this is the first study to explore antibiotics in leprosy
treatment, chemoprophylaxis, and complications such as ulcer compliance with the
AWaRe programme. Antimicrobial resistance is on the rise, which is a global issue that
continues to pose challenges to clinical practices. This review may provide physicians
with an overview of the current state of drug prescribing trends in leprosy, whether in
accordance with the AWaRe classification in selecting the right drug when the use of antimicrobials
is indicated and may also aid in rational drug prescribing.
Commercial Fungal Exopolysaccharides: Botryosphaeran, Pullulan, and Scleroglucan
Authors: Gonsalves Valerie , Pereira Sheryanne Velho
Published: July 2022

Interest in polymer production by microorganisms has significantly increased due to its widespread use in various sectors. There are three major classes of microbial polysaccharides, namely extracellular, intracellular and structural. Of these, exopolysaccharides are preferred because of their easy isolation and purification and also because of their high yielding potential in a short time period. Exopolysaccharide production is reported in a considerable number of fungi, including higher basidiomycetes, lower filamentous fungi, and yeasts from different ecological niches. Among these, the exopolysaccharides, botryosphaeran, pullulan, and scleroglucan, produced by Aureobasidium pullulans, Botryosphaeria, and Sclerotium, respectively, have been commercially produced and are well known for their applications in diverse fields. Exopolysaccharide production in fungi mainly depends on the fungal strain used, the physical conditions used for fermentation, and the medium components used for the production. Fungal exopolysaccharides are significant primarily because of their properties such as pseudoplasticity, resistance to salt and thermal degradation, high viscosity even at diluted concentrations, and high-temperature tolerance. Fungal polysaccharides have been extensively exploited in various sectors such as petroleum, bioremediation, food, biomedical, cosmetic, textile, and pharmaceutical.
Fungal Mediated Synthesis of Nanoparticles: Characterization and Bioapplications
Authors: Reddy G. Bhagavanth , Ramakrishna D. , Kondaiah S. , Mangatayaru K. Girija
Published: July 2022

Metal nanoparticles have received a great deal of attention from researchers in recent decades due to their significant impact on a variety of important applications such as biomedicine, agriculture, energy, electronics, and sensing. Biosynthesis is another alternative approach in the synthesis of clean, reliable, cost-effective, and green approaches that interest nano and microbial biotechnologies, in addition to many conventional procedures reported for synthesizing metal nanoparticles. This chapter describes the studies relating to fungal mediated synthesis of metal nanoparticles, as well as their biomedical, catalytic, and agriculture applications. These fungi-based biomolecules undergo highly controlled assembly in the synthesis of suitable metal nanoparticles with different shapes, charges, and sizes. The formation mechanism has not yet been completely explained, in spite of the fact that it is accepted that fungal biomolecules are mostly used in the process. In fact, fungi are efficient biomolecules used in the synthesis of metal nanoparticles that show a wide range of bioapplications such as anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, etc. This chapter highlights the potential use of fungi as a novel source for the green synthesis of metal nanoparticles with enhanced biomedical applications.
Mycoremediation of Synthetic and Xenobiotic Compounds
Authors: Borthakur Debashree
Published: July 2022

The speedy rate of industrialization, metropolitanization, and rising population are leading to the contamination of the environment and an increase in health issues. A variety of anthropogenic polymers are introduced into the soil in numerous ways. These compounds may be hazardous chemicals, polythene, pesticides, plastics, etc. Accumulation of these synthetic pollutants in the surroundings causes severe illness and can also lead to an ecological threat. Alternative strategies to combat these ever-growing issues have been inaugurated and executed from the microbiological aspect. Myco-remediation is the implementation of fungus or its metabolic derivatives for the detoxification of environmental contaminants. This technology is eco-friendly, more efficient, and very economical. It is a natural technology for the degradation of synthetic polymers. It has additional benefits over other conventional methods. In this chapter, we have highlighted the negative effects of common contaminants on health and the environment and also summarized the contribution of several fungi and enzymes that are able to degrade a variety of widely used synthetic plastics such as agricultural, pharmaceutical wastes, heavy metals, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon. The chapter also explains the strategies which can be used as a future framework to remove or solve the global problem of pollution.
Learning in the subjects of the common trunk in the autonomous reasoning of the students of the basic elementary sublevel
Authors: Barrero-Zambrano Linda Gabriela , Ávila-Rosales Francisca Margarita
Published: July 2022

The objective is to analyze learning in the subjects of the common core, for autonomous reasoning in students of the basic elementary sublevel, of the Educational Unit Fiscomisional Cinco de Mayo of the city of Chone in the year 2022. The lack of materials for the development of the tasks and the ease to answer the tasks with very little effort were evidenced. The descriptive research was carried out by relating the techniques and strategies that were used, such as: surveys of students, parents, and observation sheets, having a population of 108 students and 107 parents. The result was that the developed research served to verify the stated objective, verifying that the teachers use the materials related to the subjects of the common trunk to develop the autonomous reasoning of the students and these develop practices according to the given contents, while the Parents support their children in school activities.
effect of motivation and supervision on employee work discipline during the implementation of work from home at the medium customs and excise office type A Pasuruan
Authors: Bisri Mohammad Farid , Perizade Badia , Hanafi Agustina , Widiyanti Marlina
Published: July 2022

This study aims to determine the effect of motivation and supervision on employee work discipline during the implementation of work from home at The Medium Customs and Excise Office Type A Pasuruan. The total population is 125 employees, and all of them are used as samples. This research uses multiple linear regression analysis methods. The study results show that motivation and supervision positively and significantly affect work discipline, where supervision is more dominant than motivation. Motivation needs to be improved by maintaining work and rest time according to employee capacity (work-life balance). Meanwhile, supervision will obtain optimal results if the work evaluation is carried out fairly and proportionally.
Análisis iconográfico de tipo pictórico, como formador de nación en Argentina durante la primera mitad del siglo XIX (1810-1852)
Authors: Palta Flaker Deiner
Published: July 2022

This article analyzes representative examples of pictorial art in Argentina during the first half of the 19th century through the study of iconographic representations, which, when compared with written sources, reveal allegories, symbols and national identities. These show the socio-cultural transitions of political type, which were portrayed by foreign and native artists in the visual imaginary comprised by two periods 1810- 1829 and 1830 - 1852. In the first period, the beginnings of modern Argentine pictorial art express in their works the heroic legacy left by the liberation campaigns and the heroes of the country, within the framework of neoclassicism that will be reflected throughout the first half of the 19th century. In the second period the themes and symbols change to reflect a nationalism that gained strength through the image as a visual discourse by means of the dictatorial regime of General Juan Manuel de Rosas.
Docencia universitaria: creatividad e innovación con herramientas digitales
Authors: Lizarro Guzmán Nora
Published: July 2022

Introduction: In university teaching it is imperative to appeal to creativity and innovation in the virtual classroom, integrating digital tools that generate added value in the knowledge of students. Objective: Analyze and systematize information on specific applications (Quizlet, MURAL, Kahoot, Flipgrid and Lucidchart) integrated into Microsoft Teams for the use ofpedagogical actors through creative and innovative strategies. Methodology: The research was developed under the qualitative approach, through the methodology of search, analysis and selection of documents, applying filters according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. To achieve the stated objective, the importance of technology in the preparation of the 2030 generation was addressed; creativity and innovation in virtual classrooms from teaching practice, andapplications integrated into Teams that offer didactic possibilities in the university training process in the current context. Results: Teachers have limited knowledge of digital tools, in some cases, they are unaware of their existence or technological advances and their potential and; its modes of use in the formative scenario were little explored. It is difficult to keep up with the existing technological alternatives in the educational field. Conclusions: The professormust be constantly updated in the use of active methodologies and digital technologies thatfoster various teaching and learning experiences in response to the skills of the students and thedemand for skills in the future of work. In this way, the teacher must focus on overcoming thechallenges to provide quality higher education; therefore, train quality professionals.
Acceptance, Adaptation and Adoption: The key to Colombian Refugees in New Zealand Overcoming Barriers of Belonging
Authors: Lopez Severiche Alfredo
Published: July 2022

Introduction: This article examines the barriers of integration that Colombian refugees confront in New Zealand, including culture shock, lack of English, unemployment, discrimination, relationship with others and issues of identity. It argues for a three-pronged framework of acceptance, adaptation and adoption in facilitating integration. Thirteen Colombian refugees resettled from Ecuador took part in this research, who came to New Zealand between 2007 and 2014. Objective: This research seeks to explore the barriers that impact the integration of Colombian refugees in New Zealand. Also, to fill this gap in the literature by providing new knowledge on the subject already described. Methodology: The qualitative methodological approach of this study is an ethnographic collection of oral stories. Oral history interviews, a focus group and personal diaries were used as data collection methods. Results: The findings of this study show that Colombian refugees face challenges that put at risk their integration into New Zealand’s society, the main challenges faced by them are culture shock, lack of English, unemployment, discrimination, relationship with others and issues of identity. Conclusion: Despite the challenges already mentioned, the development of qualities such as acceptance, adaptation and adoption has contributed to overcoming these barriers and achieving their integration in New Zealand.
Dirección científica educacional como agente de cambio para las instituciones educativas
Authors: Hernández Chang Emilio Ariel , Ávila Toscano José , Pérez Viera Odalys , Vargas Delgado Leonardo
Published: July 2022

i) introduction: The different problems experienced in the current educational context demand an "educational change", a reality that increases the strategic character of educational scientific management as a relevant conception for social sciences and education; ii) objective: To analyze the challenges faced by educational scientific management and its incidence in the promotion of "educational change"; iii) reflection: Scientific educational management presents scopes and challenges regarding the construction of a more just and educated school, based on the predominance of human values, through which "educational change" is foreseen, favored and valued in all its significance and transcendence. The management relationships sustained at the different levels of the educational institution must be characterized by adequate mechanisms of communication and participation in decision-making, which increase confidence in management, recognizing the limitations and tensions emanating from a dynamic and complex educational environment; iv) conclusions: Educational change, which implies the need for a transformation of the forms and contents developed in modern educational institutions, is a process consubstantial to educational scientific management and, consequently, must be visualized, understood and promoted by all its protagonists.
Aplicación del fuero materno en los contratos de maternidad subrogada: retos y desafíos en el ordenamiento jurídico colombiano
Authors: Caballero Palomino Sergio Andrés , Lozano Parra Johan Sebastián , Cruz Cadena Katerin Yulieth , Parra Cárdenas Amanda
Published: July 2022

Introduction: This article investigates the possibility of regulating the surrogate motherhood contract from the perspective of the employment relationship that may exist between the surrogate mother and the adoptive parents. So, the research objective is to analyze theapplication of the maternity jurisdiction in surrogate motherhood contracts, as well as to outline the existence of a labor relationship. Research that was carried out using a correlational, descriptive and explanatory methodology. On which the main results obtained were, on the one hand, the multiplicity of possible employment relationships in the surrogate motherhood contract and on the other hand the maternity jurisdiction, which must be applied in a totaland partial way, depending on the surrogate mother or the adoptive mother. Finally, the main conclusions allow us to establish that there are three forms or modalities of employment relationship in such a way that since there is no strong regulation on the matter, there may be vicissitudes in its future application.
Elementos de Populismo Punitivo en el Proyecto de Reforma Constitucional Sobre la Introducción de Prisión Perpetua en Colombia
Authors: Flórez Eusse Yuner Ismar
Published: July 2022

Introduction: Punitive populism is presented as a phenomenon where legislation is made outside a study of criminal policy, on the contrary, the conjunctures that move social emotions are used to propose draft legislative acts that leave aside in disciplinary analysis of the matter to focus rather on particular interests, such as gaining recognition and therefore voters. Objective: The purpose of this research exercise is to unveil the possible elements of punitive populism in the constitutional reform project on the introduction of life imprisonment in Colombia, in this article it is postulated that punitive populism in contemporary times is detrimental to human dignity, which is the backbone of the 1991 Political Constitution. Methodology: With a horizon like the previous one, in the present research the position on punitive populism as manipulation of the social masses, both ideologically and in a repressive way, so that it takes shape within the paradigm of socio-legal research, whose method used is the socio-critical and the hermeneutic or interpretive, as these allow a reading from the text and contexts to produce new knowledge in the field of criminal law and philosophy of law, emerging new theoretical alternatives and application in the legal field, in favor of human rights, inclusion and human dignity.
Veranderende kijk op de Muur van Mussert
Authors: During Roel , van Dam Rosalie
Published: July 2022

In het buitengebied van Lunteren staat de Muur van Mussert als stille getuige van een heftige periode in de geschiedenis. Er zijn emotionele discussies geweest over de vraag of hij behouden moet worden of afgebroken. In een kakofonie van geluiden kristalliseren zich verschillende betekenissen uit, die uitmonden in een monumentstatus.
Playground Inclusivity for Children With a Disability: Protocol for a Scoping Review (Preprint)
Authors: Taylor Leah G , Vanderloo Leigh M , Arbour-Nicitopoulos Kelly P , Leo Jennifer , Gilliland Jason , Tucker Patricia
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Although playgrounds are designed to promote outdoor play, children with disabilities may be unable to engage in these spaces due to intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Previous research has examined inclusive/accessible playground design when developing new playgrounds; however, it is unclear if there is a best-practice tool for evaluating the inclusivity of existing playground structures.

OBJECTIVE

A scoping review of both peer-reviewed and grey literature will be employed to explore evaluation tools for playground inclusivity, to enable the participation of children with disabilities.

METHODS

The conduct of this study will adhere to the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. A search for peer-reviewed research studies will be conducted in the following electronic databases: MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, and Embase. Grey literature will be examined via a three-step process: (1) a search in the Canadian Health Research Collection Database; (2) a targeted Google search; and (3) reference list searching. Titles, abstracts, keywords, and full texts of identified studies will be independently screened for inclusion by two reviewers. A synthesis of included articles will describe the publication and auditing tool details. A summary of the findings will highlight the types of playgrounds measured, types of disability considered, measures of inclusion used, and psychometric properties.

RESULTS

Database searches for peer-reviewed articles were completed in December 2021. A total of 1471 unique records were returned after the removal of 559 duplicate records. Full texts of 167 studies meeting eligibility criteria will be reviewed. The peer-reviewed research search will guide the grey literature search. The scoping review is planned for completion in 2022.

CONCLUSIONS

A rigorous search of the literature will determine the availability of tools for evaluating existing playground structures for the inclusivity of children with disabilities. The results will inform recommendations on tool applications, and applicable knowledge translation activities.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

DERR1-10.2196/37312
An Augmented Reality–Based Guide for Mechanical Ventilator Setup: Prospective Randomized Pilot Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Heo Sejin , Moon Suhyeon , Kim Minha , Park Minsu , Cha Won Chul , Son Meong Hi
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Recently, the demand for mechanical ventilation (MV) has increased with the COVID-19 pandemic; however, the conventional approaches to MV training are resource intensive and require on-site training. Consequently, the need for independent learning platforms with remote assistance in institutions without resources has surged.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of an augmented reality (AR)–based self-learning platform for novices to set up a ventilator without on-site assistance.

METHODS

This prospective randomized controlled pilot study was conducted at Samsung Medical Center, Korea, from January to February 2022. Nurses with no prior experience of MV or AR were enrolled. We randomized the participants into 2 groups: manual and AR groups. Participants in the manual group used a printed manual and made a phone call for assistance, whereas participants in the AR group were guided by AR-based instructions and requested assistance with the head-mounted display. We compared the overall score of the procedure, required level of assistance, and user experience between the groups.

RESULTS

In total, 30 participants completed the entire procedure with or without remote assistance. Fewer participants requested assistance in the AR group compared to the manual group (7/15, 47.7% vs 14/15, 93.3%; P=.02). The number of steps that required assistance was also lower in the AR group compared to the manual group (n=13 vs n=33; P=.004). The AR group had a higher rating in predeveloped questions for confidence (median 3, IQR 2.50-4.00 vs median 2, IQR 2.00-3.00; P=.01), suitability of method (median 4, IQR 4.00-5.00 vs median 3, IQR 3.00-3.50; P=.01), and whether they intended to recommend AR systems to others (median 4, IQR 3.00-5.00 vs median 3, IQR 2.00-3.00; P=.002).

CONCLUSIONS

AR-based instructions to set up a mechanical ventilator were feasible for novices who had no prior experience with MV or AR. Additionally, participants in the AR group required less assistance compared with those in the manual group, resulting in higher confidence after training.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05446896; https://beta.clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05446896
Usability Evaluation of Preoperative ISBAR Desktop VR Application (Preprint)
Authors: Andreasen Eva Mari , Høigaard Rune , Berg Helen , Steinsbekk Aslak , Haraldstad Kristin
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Systematic communication, such as the Identification-Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation (ISBAR) method, comprises a generic, transferable non-technical skill. It can be used during handover of patients set to undergo surgery and can be practiced in various ways, including virtual reality (VR). VR increasingly has been implemented and valued in nursing education as a positive contribution to teach students about pre- and postoperative nursing. A new learning activity called the Preoperative ISBAR Desktop VR Application has been developed for undergraduate nursing students to learn preoperative handover using the ISBAR method. However, the usability of this learning activity has not been studied.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate how second-year undergraduate nursing students evaluated the usability of the Preoperative ISBAR Desktop VR Application.

METHODS

This was a qualitative study with observation and interviews. The inclusion criteria were undergraduate second-year nursing students of varying ages, gender, and anticipated technological competence. The System Usability Scale questionnaire was used to get a score on overall usability.

RESULTS

Nine second-year nursing students ages 22–29 participated in the study. The average score on the 0-to-100 System Usability Scale was 83, which equals a “B” on the graded scale and is excellent for an adjective-grade rating. The students expressed increased motivation to learn while working in self-instructed desktop VR. Still, a few technical difficulties occurred, and some students reported that they experienced some problems comprehending the instructions provided in the application. Long written instructions and a lack of self-pacing built into the application were considered limitations.

CONCLUSIONS

The nursing students found the application to be usable overall, giving it an excellent usability score and noting that the application provided opportunities for active participation, which was motivational and facilitated their perceived learning outcomes. The next version of the application, to be used in a randomized controlled trial, will be upgraded to address technological and comprehension issues.
Attrition Rates in HIV Viral Load Monitoring and Factors Associated With Overdue Testing Among Children Within South Africa’s Antiretroviral Treatment Program: Retrospective Descriptive Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Haeri Mazanderani Ahmad , Radebe Lebohang , Sherman Gayle G
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies in South Africa have reported low HIV viral load (VL) suppression and high attrition rates within the pediatric HIV treatment program.

OBJECTIVE

Using routine laboratory data, we evaluated HIV VL monitoring, including mobility and overdue VL (OVL) testing, within 5 priority districts in South Africa.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective descriptive analysis of National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) data for children and adolescents aged 1-15 years having undergone HIV VL testing between May 1, 2019, and April 30, 2020, from 152 facilities within the City of Johannesburg, City of Tshwane, eThekwini, uMgungundlovu, and Zululand. HIV VL test–level data were deduplicated to patient-level data using the NHLS CDW (Corporate Data Warehouse) probabilistic record-linking algorithm and then further manually deduplicated. An OVL was defined as no subsequent VL determined within 18 months of the last test. Variables associated with the last VL test, including age, sex, VL findings, district type, and facility type, are described. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify variables associated with an OVL test.

RESULTS

Among 21,338 children and adolescents aged 1-15 years who had an HIV VL test, 72.70% (n=15,512) had a follow-up VL test within 18 months. Furthermore, 13.33% (n=2194) of them were followed up at a different facility, of whom 3.79% (n=624) were in a different district and 1.71% (n=281) were in a different province. Among patients with a VL of ≥1000 RNA copies/mL of plasma, the median time to subsequent testing was 6 (IQR 4-10) months. The younger the age of the patient, the greater the proportion with an OVL, ranging from a peak of 52% among 1-year-olds to a trough of 21% among 14-year-olds. On multivariate analysis, 2 consecutive HIV VL findings of ≥1000 RNA copies/mL of plasma were associated with an increased adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of having an OVL (AOR 2.07, 95% CI 1.71-2.51). Conversely, patients examined at a hospital (AOR 0.86, 95% CI 0.77-0.96), those with ≥2 previous tests (AOR 0.78, 95% CI 0.70-0.86), those examined in a rural district (AOR 0.63, 95% CI 0.54-0.73), and older age groups of 5-9 years (AOR 0.56, 95% CI 0.47-0.65) and 10-14 years (AOR 0.51, 95% CI 0.44-0.59) compared to 1-4 years were associated with a significantly decreased odds of having an OVL test.

CONCLUSIONS

Considerable attrition occurs within South Africa’s pediatric HIV treatment program, with over one-fourth of children having an OVL test 18 months subsequent to their previous test. In particular, younger children and those with virological failure were found to be at increased risk of having an OVL test. Improved HIV VL monitoring is essential for improving outcomes within South Africa’s pediatric antiretroviral treatment program.
Optometrists' Perspectives Regarding Artificial Intelligence Aids and Contributing Retinal Images to a Repository: Web-Based Interview Study (Preprint)
Authors: Constantin Aurora , Atkinson Malcolm , Bernabeu Miguel Oscar , Buckmaster Fiona , Dhillon Baljean , McTrusty Alice , Strang Niall , Williams Robin
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND

A repository of retinal images for research is being established in Scotland. It will permit researchers to validate, tune, and refine artificial intelligence (AI) decision-support algorithms to accelerate safe deployment in Scottish optometry and beyond. Research demonstrates the potential of AI systems in optometry and ophthalmology, though they are not yet widely adopted.

OBJECTIVE

In this study, 18 optometrists were interviewed to (1) identify their expectations and concerns about the national image research repository and their use of AI decision support and (2) gather their suggestions for improving eye health care. The goal was to clarify attitudes among optometrists delivering primary eye care with respect to contributing their patients’ images and to using AI assistance. These attitudes are less well studied in primary care contexts. Five ophthalmologists were interviewed to discover their interactions with optometrists.

METHODS

Between March and August 2021, 23 semistructured interviews were conducted online lasting for 30-60 minutes. Transcribed and pseudonymized recordings were analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

All optometrists supported contributing retinal images to form an extensive and long-running research repository. Our main findings are summarized as follows. Optometrists were willing to share images of their patients’ eyes but expressed concern about technical difficulties, lack of standardization, and the effort involved. Those interviewed thought that sharing digital images would improve collaboration between optometrists and ophthalmologists, for example, during referral to secondary health care. Optometrists welcomed an expanded primary care role in diagnosis and management of diseases by exploiting new technologies and anticipated significant health benefits. Optometrists welcomed AI assistance but insisted that it should not reduce their role and responsibilities.

CONCLUSIONS

Our investigation focusing on optometrists is novel because most similar studies on AI assistance were performed in hospital settings. Our findings are consistent with those of studies with professionals in ophthalmology and other medical disciplines: showing near universal willingness to use AI to improve health care, alongside concerns over training, costs, responsibilities, skill retention, data sharing, and disruptions to professional practices. Our study on optometrists’ willingness to contribute images to a research repository introduces a new aspect; they hope that a digital image sharing infrastructure will facilitate service integration.
The Differences and Integration between Tea Culture and Coffee Culture
Authors: Wang Shichao
Published: July 2022

Tea took its source at China and has played an important role in people’s life from ancient times to the present; Coffee originated in the west and its importance is comparable to that of tea to the Chinese people. They are regarded as outstanding representatives of Chinese and Western cultures. The contact between the two cultures reflects their differences and connotations. This paper makes a comparison between tea culture and coffee culture from the aspects of the origin, development, differences and culture connotations. So as to understand the cultural conflicts between Chinese and Western cultures and the trend of mutual integration of Chinese and Western cultures under the trend of globalization.
Заселение Пржевальского уезда Семиреченской области сарт-калмаками в последней трети XIX в.
Authors:   Al-Farabi Kazakh National University (71, Al-Farabi Ave., 050040 Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan), Miymanbaeva Fialka N. , Alpysbayeva Nurzipa K. , Kartabayeva Yerke T.
Published: July 2022

Introduction. The history of the Sart Kalmyks in Przhevalsky Uyezd of Semirechenskaya Oblast — referred to as Kalmyks, Qara Kalmyks, Olets, Sart Kalmyks — remains understudied. Goals. The study seeks to reveal the history of emergence and strengthening of Kalmyks in the Semirechye Region from the late 15th century to the collapse of the Dzungar Khanate — and further to their return to Semirechye after the Dungan Revolt in Ghulja and annexation of the territory by the Russian Empire. Materials and methods. The article employs both general scientific and specific historical research methods, including that of source studies. The work analyzes materials from central archives of Russia and Kazakhstan, a main emphasis be laid on the correspondence between uyezd, oblast executives — and the administrative office of Russian Turkestan regarding the arrival of Kalmyks in the Semirechye Region and related supporting arrangements. Results. Kalmyks had started inhabiting Semirechye in the late 16th and 17th centuries as subjects of the Dzungar Khanate. The final resettlement of those Kalmyks to the Russian Empire took place in the 1960s–1890s after the Dungan (Taranchi) Revolt. The Russian administration facilitated the arrival of Kalmyks in Semirechenskaya Oblast and rendered them material assistance. The documents reveal what role the Kalmyks played in the structure of China’s border troops, their main occupations. However, after the restoration of Chinese power in Ghulja the bulk of the Kalmyks returned to China, only a small group remained to be referred to by Russian officials as ‘Sart Kalmaks’ and settled in Issyk-Kul (Przhevalsky) Uyezd. Conclusions. In the late 19th century, Sart Kalmyks founded the villages of Chelpek and Ber-Bash in Przhevalsky Uyezd and continued to maintain their traditional economies.
Внешняя торговля Британской Индии на рубеже XIX–XX вв. (по материалам дипломатических представительств России)
Authors:   North Caucasus Federal University (1, Pushkin St., 355029 Stavropol, Russian Federation), Kryuchkov Igor V. , Kryuchkova Natalia D. , Melkonyan Ashot A. ,   Institute of History, National Academy of Sciences of Armenia (24, Marshal Baghramian Ave., 0019 Yerevan, Republic of Armenia)
Published: July 2022

Introduction. The history of British Raj’s foreign economic activity development at the turn of the 20th century remains somewhat understudied both in Russian and foreign historiography. Since the 1880s, India significantly increased foreign trade to become Asia’s leader in this regard. Goals. The paper aims at examining dynamics of India’s export-import operations and foreign trade by countries. Materials and methods. The article analyzes reports and accounts of Russian diplomats to have worked in British Raj, the Near East, and Great Britain. The employed research methods include the historical/genetic, comparative historical, and historical/typological ones. Results. Britain had been India’s dominating trading partner. However, gradually other states also increased trade operations with the latter, especially import ones. The paper emphasizes Russia failed to become a key foreign trade partner of British Raj (except for export of kerosene and import of tea). The identified reasons are contentious British-Russian relations in Central Asia in the 1860s–1890s, poor knowledge of the Indian market, and geographical remoteness. British Raj turned an outpost of Great Britain’s economic strength in the Persian Gulf. At the same time, Indian goods displaced products from other countries — including Britain manufactured ones — in many ports of the Persian Gulf and the Arabian Peninsula. The article stresses that the bulk of India’s foreign economic relations were maintained via maritime transport. This was due to complicated natural and climatic factors along land borders, instability in frontiers (Afghanistan and Persia). Nonetheless, British Raj was increasing its economic presence in Afghanistan, Persia, Nepal, Ceylon, Siam, and western provinces of China. An important place in India’s foreign trade was occupied by transit trade and re-export of goods from other states, which makes it difficult to accurately determine the actual volume of its foreign trade. Conclusions. The specifics of India’s national economic development can thus be traced in the structure of its foreign trade. The exports were dominated by raw materials and foodstuffs; manufactured products were only making their way to foreign markets. The difficulties were largely associated with the Great Britain’s colonial policy in India since the former sought to keep using the latter as a market for industrial products produced in the British Isles. On the eve of WW I, British Raj was building up its economic potential through strengthening its positions in world trade.
Иранская проблема в нацистской пропаганде на оккупированной территории Северо-Запада России (1942–1943 гг.)
Authors:   Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University (29, Politekhnicheskaya St., 195251 St. Petersburg, Russian Federation), Kovalev Boris N. , Kulik Sergey V. ,   St. Petersburg Institute of History of the RAS (7, Petrozavodskaya St., 197110 St. Petersburg, Russian Federation)
Published: July 2022

Introduction. The article analyzes the coverage of the Iranian problem in the collaborationist newspapers Za rodinu (‘For Motherland’) and Novyi put’ (‘New Way’). These periodicals were published and circulated both in the Baltic and Northwest Russia during the Nazi occupation (1941–1944). The publications have never been subject to scientific inquiry before. The period witnessed a subtle diplomatic game on the ‘Iranian front’ played by Nazi Germany and aimed at winning over both Iran and Soviet peoples (including those from Transcaucasia) to its side. That policy proved so active that it was implemented even in a very remote region — Northwest Russia. Materials and methods. The work analyzes articles of the collaborationist newspapers dealing with Iranian affairs. In Russian and foreign historiography examining various aspects of Nazi propaganda during World War II this aspect has not been considered properly yet. The guiding research principles include those of objectivity, comprehensive analysis, historicism, and source criticism. Results. The article scrutinizes into Nazi Germany’s propaganda policy on Iran as a factor in the strategic struggle against the Soviet Union and Great Britain. Particular attention is paid to the propaganda affirmations used by Germany after the arrival of Soviet and British troops in Iran. Geographically, special emphasis is laid on the Near East. Nazi Russian-language propaganda in the occupied territories of Russia made significant efforts to prove depravity of the Allies of World War II. Iran and its people were treated as victims of the Soviet-British occupation and potential allies of the Third Reich.
Административно-правовой режим и повседневная жизнь спецпоселенцев-калмыков в 1944–1945 гг.: официальные документы и воспоминания очевидцев
Authors:   Moscow City University (16/10, Novokuznetskaya St., 119017 Moscow, Russian Federation), Epifanov Alexander E. , Krinko Evgeniy F. ,   Academy of Management of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of the Russian Federation, Research and Development Center (8, Zoya & Aleksandr Kosmodemyanskie St., 125171 Moscow, Russian Federation),   Southern Scientific Center of the RAS (41, Chekhov Ave., 344006 Rostov-on-Don, Russian Federation)
Published: July 2022

Introduction. The deportation during the Great Patriotic War is a most tragic page in Kalmyk history. Despite numerous publications, the history of the Kalmyk exile continues to arouse research interest. Goals. The article aims to analyze the administrative-legal regime and everyday life of exiled Kalmyk settlers in 1944-1945. Materials and methods. The study explores two sets of historical sources: 1) official documents from the State Archive of the Russian Federation (collections of the USSR Ministry of Internal Affairs and its Fourth Special Department ), 2) private sources — memoires of former exiled settlers. The work employs systematic and interdisciplinary approaches, uses the historical legal and historical anthropological research methods. Results. Many documents attest to the harsh conditions experienced by Kalmyks in special settlement areas, adaptation difficulties, lack of necessary housing conditions, food and clothing, and other problems. At the same time, the documents narrate the desire of authorities (including NKVD bodies) to improve the situation faced by exiled settlers, solve problems of their supply and employment. The historical memory of Kalmyks contains imprints of the endured pecuniary burdens and psychological traumas, starvation and poverty, illnesses and deaths of beloved ones. However, the people retain hearty attitudes towards local residents who rendered them real help and support.
Жанр йорял в калмыцкой поэзии ХХ в. (по материалам газетной периодики 1930–1940-х гг.)
Authors:   Kalmyk Scientific Center of the RAS (8, Ilishkin St., 358000 Elista, Russian Federation), Khaninova Rimma M.
Published: July 2022

Introduction. In folklore of Mongolic peoples, well-wishes are referred to as ritual poetry. This is one of the ancient, surviving and widespread genres to have essentially preserved the idea of word magic. It has undergone some changes but still articulates benevolent messages towards future. The Mongolian ерɵɵл (derived from Mong. ерɵɵ ‘bless, wish well, greet’), Kalmyk йɵрəл (from Kalm. йɵрǝх), and Buryat үрээрнууд address family life, nature, society, state, universe to narrate the history, lifestyles, culture, and philosophy of the ethnos. The article proves topical enough since yöräls by 20th century Kalmyk poets created on the basis of folklore analogues through interactions of oral folklore art and literature remain unexplored. Goals. The study aims at identifying and clarifying the genre differentiation of Kalmyk poets’ yöräls, thematic classification, poetics of texts. Materials and methods. The paper examines folklore and literary works from newspapers of the 1930s and 1940s. The historical/functional method shows perceptions of authorial yöräls through time. A comparative approach makes it possible to trace ties between folklore analogues and literary texts, investigates traditions and innovations — both in form and in contents — of the new yöräls by Kalmyk poets. The textual analysis reveals common features and differences of folklore and literary works of this genre. Results. In newspapers of those years, the work discovers yöräls authored by Kalmyk poets to be classified as ‘shin yöräl’ (‘new well wishes’) that served to reflect actual realities. Conclusions. While ancient yöräls had a short and spatial poetic form, the new ones of S. Kalyaev, Ts. Ledzhinov, L. Indzhiev, B. Dordzhiev, Kh. Syan-Belgin, M. Khoninov, D. Kugultinov, E. Kekteev, and K. Erendzhenov tended towards larger volumes, lexical diversity, sociopolitical and ideological orientation, thus showing a connection with modernity and enriching the genre system of Kalmyk poetry. Another scientific problem is Russian translation of the Kalmyk authors’ poetic well wishes.
An Inexpensive Hybrid Machine for Perpetual Motion
Authors: Warjri Andrew
Published: July 2022

Abstract: In this research paper, we wanted to show that a perpetual motion for the shaft of the machine doesn’t require expensive energy sources.The infinite amount of external energy supply is achieved; by designing a machine that uses the freely available natural energy from the surrounding, and this machine must be a hybrid one. This hybrid machine contains a mechanical system, an electrical system, and a switching device. The rotating mass is in the vacuum chamber, it rotates on the bearing supports with the energy obtained from the conservative work done due to gravity, the electrical system uses electrical energy, and this electrical energy is for the magnetic force to repel and attract the rotating mass which is attached, with a permanent magnet at its tip. This electrical energy must be from the solar cell to charge the battery for the electrical energy. The switching device is for periodically switching on and off; the timing of switching on and off for the electrical circuit is by sensing the position of the permanent magnet; when it is near the electromagnet or within the magnetic field for repulsive or attractive force. And the outcome of this is the continuous supply of shaft power for perpetual motion of the shaft that is an integrated structure with the rotating mass.
Bionic Arm Using Muscle Sensor
Authors: Kumar Ayush
Published: July 2022

Abstract: In this paper, we have presented design and implementation of a 3D printed electromyography based bionic arm, having potential to be used by an upper limb amputee. The user flexes his or her muscles to electronically activate and control the arm. Our main goal was to obtain the fundamental control of the hand at a cost which makes bionic arm accessible to amputees with economic constraints. Although this technology is employed in a number of commercially available prosthetic arms in the global market, but they are not budget-friendly. We have analysed and investigated the several actuation techniques and design parameters used in the commercially available prosthetic hands. Electromyography (EMG) controlled Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) technique has been used for the actuation of servomotors using the microcontroller. The finished 3D model was created using PLA (polylactic acid), and the findings about the mechanical parameters have been briefly mentioned in the paper. This work includes elements from various engineering fields, including Biomechatronics, sensors, transducers, feedback, and control system. A creative mechanical design for a 3D printed prosthetic arm is the system's basis. Modern electronic actuators and microelectronic circuitry is responsible for desired motion and enables complex control architectures. It is intended that a broad readership would find value in this work.