bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New records on the distribution and habitat of the northern naked-tailed armadillo, Cabassous centralis (Mammalia, Cingulata, Chlamyphoridae) in Costa Rica
Authors: Marín Pablo , Mora José Manuel , López Lucia I. , Pérez Arrieta José Alberto , Rodríguez Miguel A. , Cambronero Alison Vega , Arias Ignacio
Published: August 2021

The northern naked-tailed armadillo,Cabassous centralis, is a rare and elusive species. It ranges from southern Mexico to northern South America. It has been detected in several types of habitats, but appears to prefer Tropical and Subtropical broadleaf forests. In Costa Rica, this species is difficult to observe and there are only eight records reported in the scientific literature. To search records of this armadillo, we used camera traps in north-western Costa Rica and visited several additional localities in the centre and the Caribbean lowlands of the country. We also examined and assessed records of this species from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) database. We added four new locality records forC. centralisin Costa Rica, based on photos from camera traps and field observations. We found only three localities (five records) in GBIF additional to the eight reported in literature. Habitat in these new Costa Rican localities reported here varied from mature dense forest (one site) to semi-urban areas (two sites). Additionally, two individuals were detected in secondary forest patches, one of them adjacent to mature riparian forest. Given the species’ scarcity, much additional information still is required to ground protection actions in a scientific framework.
Irregular Astigmatism Induced by Irregular Epithelial Remodeling After Conductive Keratoplasty and Transepithelial CXL
Authors: Ferguson Tanner J. , Randleman J. Bradley
Published: August 2021

PURPOSE:

To describe the evaluation and management of irregular astigmatism induced by persistent irregular epithelial remodeling in the absence of persistent underlying stromal curvature irregularity following photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) re-treatment after remote myopic laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) with subsequent conductive keratoplasty (CK) and transepithelial corneal cross-linking (CXL).

METHODS:

Case report.

RESULTS:

A 41-year-old woman presented for evaluation 1 year after developing blurred vision. She had irregular astigmatism in her right eye following PRK re-treatment for regression after remote myopic LASIK, with a subsequent combined CK and modified transepithelial CXL procedure 1 month after PRK. Scheimpflug tomography demonstrated a post-myopic ablation pattern with an apparent decentered optical zone. Anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT) revealed an irregular epithelial thickness pattern, with an asymmetric focal region of epithelial thickness para-centrally temporally. Superficial keratectomy was performed. Following the procedure, the patient's uncorrected distance visual acuity improved by two lines to 20/20, and her subjective blur symptoms resolved and remained stable during 12 months of follow-up. Repeat AS-OCT demonstrated a more uniform epithelial thickness pattern. Scheimpflug tomography showed resolution of the optical zone decentration, confirming that the irregular epithelial remodeling caused the curvature irregularity, and the underlying stromal curvature was not significantly irregular at the time of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS:

Although uncommon, irregular epithelial remodeling can occur without permanent underlying stromal irregularity. The authors surmise that a temporary induced stromal curvature change from combined CK and transepithelial CXL regressed, but epithelial remodeling did not return to the anticipated regular postoperative pattern. This phenomenon would be unrecognizable in the absence of epithelial mapping and highlights the need for thorough evaluation and targeted management strategies to improve epithelial regularization.

[
Journal of Refractive Surgery Case Reports
. 2021;1(2):e23–e30.]
Linear-quadratic zero-sum mean-field type games: Optimality conditions and policy optimization
Authors: Carmona René , Hamidouche Kenza , Laurière Mathieu , Tan Zongjun
Published: August 2021

In this paper, zero-sum mean-field type games (ZSMFTG) with linear dynamics and quadratic cost are studied under infinite-horizon discounted utility function. ZSMFTG are a class of games in which two decision makers whose utilities sum to zero, compete to influence a large population of indistinguishable agents. In particular, the case in which the transition and utility functions depend on the state, the action of the controllers, and the mean of the state and the actions, is investigated. The optimality conditions of the game are analysed for both open-loop and closed-loop controls, and explicit expressions for the Nash equilibrium strategies are derived. Moreover, two policy optimization methods that rely on policy gradient are proposed for both model-based and sample-based frameworks. In the model-based case, the gradients are computed exactly using the model, whereas they are estimated using Monte-Carlo simulations in the sample-based case. Numerical experiments are conducted to show the convergence of the utility function as well as the two players' controls.
A novel ensemble learning-based grey model for electricity supply forecasting in China
Authors: Cai Yubin ,   School of Science, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, China, Ma Xin ,   School of Economics & Management, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, China
Published: August 2021

Electricity consumption is one of the most important indicators reflecting the industrialization of a country. Supply of electricity power plays an import role in guaranteeing the running of a country. However, with complex circumstances, it is often difficult to make accurate forecasting with limited reliable data sets. In order to take most advantages of the existing grey system model, the ensemble learning is adopted to provide a new stratagy of building forecasting models for electricity supply of China. The nonhomogeneous grey model with different types of accumulation is firstly fitted with multiple setting of acculumation degrees. Then the majority voting is used to select and combine the most accurate and stable models validated by the grid search cross validation. Two numerical validation cases are taken to validate the proposed method in comparison with other well-known models. Results of the real-world case study of forecasting the electricity supply of China indicate that the proposed model outperforms the other 15 exisiting grey models, which illustrates the proposed model can make much more accurate and stable forecasting in such real-world applications.
The limit of reciprocal sum of some subsequential Fibonacci numbers
Authors: Lee Ho-Hyeong ,   Department of Mathematics, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea, Park Jong-Do
Published: August 2021

This paper deals with the sum of reciprocal Fibonacci numbers. Let $ f_0 = 0 $, $ f_1 = 1 $ and $ f_{n+1} = f_n+f_{n-1} $ for any $ n\in\mathbb{N} $. In this paper, we prove new estimates on $ \sum\limits^\infty_{k = n}\frac{1}{f_{mk-\ell}} $, where $ m\in\mathbb{N} $ and $ 0\leq\ell\leq m-1 $. As a consequence of some inequalities, we prove

   \begin{document}$ \lim\limits_{n\rightarrow \infty}\left\{\left(\sum\limits^\infty_{k = n}\frac{1}{f_{mk-\ell}} \right)^{-1} -(f_{mn-\ell}-f_{m(n-1)-\ell})\right\} = 0. $\end{document}

And we also compute the explicit value of $ \left\lfloor\left(\sum\limits^\infty_{k = n}\frac{1}{f_{mk-\ell}}\right)^{-1}\right\rfloor $. The interesting observation is that the value depends on $ m(n+1)+\ell $.
The value co-creation behavior in learning communities: Comparing conventional learning and e-learning
Authors: Chuang Huan-Ming ,   Department of Information Management, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, 123 University Road, Yunlin 64002, Taiwan, Band Shahab S. , Sookhak Mehdi , Pinandhito Kenneth ,   Future Technology Research Center, College of Future, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, 123 University Road, Yunlin 64002, Taiwan,   School of Information Technology, Illinois State University, Illinois, USA
Published: August 2021

With the rapid development of ICT, the present world is experiencing rapid changes in the ﬁeld of education. Implementation of e-learning and ICT in the education system could allow teachers to upgrade and improve their lectures. However, from the perspective of value co-creation behavior in learning communities, conventional learning and e-learning classrooms may encounter different opportunities and challenges. Thus, a more in-depth investigation would be needed. Based on the S-O-R framework, this study identifies self-directed learning as a stimulus, perceived benefits as the organism, and value co-creation behavior as the response. By applying the multi-criteria decision-making techniques of DEMATEL, ANP, and VIKOR, this study explores the causal effects, influential weights, and performance ranking of the primary constructs in the framework as criteria. This study's theoretical and practical implications are discussed, and ways of improving learning performance are suggested.
“I Think It Could Be Better”: Incorporating User Testing Into Learning Experience Design
Authors: Becksford Lisa , Hammer Kelsey , McNabb Kayla B
Published: August 2021

While much of the literature regarding usability testing in libraries focuses on library websites, this article describes an approach that evaluates the usability of learning artifacts, such as learning objects and print materials, as well as learning experiences. In three case studies, we describe our approach to testing these materials and experiences, the results and improvements we made, and the lessons we learned that have informed our approach. We argue that librarians should incorporate usability testing into instruction, from testing learning objects in development to testing complex learning activities and print materials. This approach to usability testing and evaluation will give educators an evidence-based way to develop more effective learning materials and experiences, making them better for our learners.
Le livre des merveilles et le cuir du langage
Authors: Laporte Nadine , Moricheau-Airaud Bérengère
Published: August 2021

L'Usage du monde de Nicolas Bouvier est un texte très connu, mais dont la présence au programme des agrégations des lettres est inattendu. Cet essai inédit est d'autant plus précieux, qui propose l'analyse littéraire d'un récit hors norme.
Le bleu impérieux du ciel
Authors: Nicolas-Pierre Delphine
Published: August 2021

C’est un défaut de lecture que ce présent ouvrage s’attache à corriger en adoptant un regard neuf sur un objet terni, jauni par les images successives laissées par les commentaires critiques au fil du temps. Longtemps mise à l’écart de l’histoire littéraire, l’œuvre de Simone de Beauvoir a suscité de nombreux malentendus. Elle a généré des pesanteurs dans l’interprétation de ses textes, déplaçant le centre de gravité d’une pensée et d’une écriture pourtant singulières. Le récit d’enfance et d’adolescence est la première marche du cycle beauvoirien des mémoires. Or relire les Mémoires d’une jeune fille rangée invite à saisir la vitalité d’un vaste continuum de textes empruntant la voie de l’écriture de soi depuis les premiers essais littéraires de Simone de Beauvoir. Ce premier opus n’est pas seulement ancré dans la réalité de son temps. L’œuvre rayonne de part et d’autre de la ligne « classique » de l’autobiographie : elle ouvre sur le monde et sur l’universel
L’expérience des mœurs
Authors: Stiker-Metral Charles-Olivier
Published: August 2021

Machine de guerre au service des anciens, lancée au plus fort de la que­relle, instrument d'une christianisation des pratiques littéraires, Les caractères stupéfient par ce qui fut à leur époque considéré comme « une manière d’écrire toute nouvelle », utilisant l’écriture discontinue pour s’interroger sur l’intelligi­bilité des comportements humains. Cette œuvre ouverte permet d’inventer un mode d’investigation à même de restituer le processus par lequel s’élabore un savoir en perpétuelle réflexion sur lui-même, et rend sensible la force d’indi­gnation et d’inquiétude qui perce derrière l’humour, l’ironie et la comédie. Une hygiène de la pensée est nécessaire à celui qui entend résister à la puissance de falsification de l’égocentrisme. Elle est aussi condition d’efficacité du discours moral : le lecteur ne deviendra pas « raisonnable et plus proche de devenir chrétien » en demeurant passif, mais en entrant dans la dynamique cognitive du livre de morale, et en faisant pour son propre compte le parcours intellec­tuel déjà effectué par l’écrivain.
La muse au couteau
Authors: Roger Thierry
Published: August 2021

Tiré de dix années d’oubli par Verlaine, rival posthume de Laforgue, salué par Tzara et Breton, Corbière n’est pas seulement le « poète maudit » ni « moderniste » qu’une certaine histoire littéraire a construit. Son œuvre, traversée par une puissance de dérision féroce, propose un recommencement du lyrisme à partir d’une esthétique polyphonique qui mêle dissonance antiromantique et consonance primitiviste. Son « ironie lyrique » (Bakhtine) perpétuelle ne peut plus être une quête de soi, mais une quête du vrai qui se fera aussi recueil de voix. Où l’on découvrira un « Maître-philosophe cynique » qui nous apprend à mourir de rire, qui «joue du couteau » contre une certaine tradition, romantique, contre le présent, parnassien, mais aussi contre la domination grapho-centrique, et donc pour l’inscription du corps dans la langue : « Si ce n’est pas vrai - Que je crève ! »
Properties and Structure of UV Light Cured CIPP Composites
Authors: Majerová Jana , Hodul Jakub , Drochytka Rostislav
Published: August 2021

One of the methods of curing (Cured-In-Place Pipe) CIPP pipes is the curing using ultraviolet (UV) light. The main difference from common CIPP types is in the structure of the liner material. In terms of material, it is a woven fiber glass fabric which is saturated with vinyl ester or polyester resin. In general, these pipes are more resistant to chemicals and achieve higher values of flexural properties. The paper focuses on the investigation of the short-term mechanical properties using three-point bending test and structure of UV cured CIPP liners. The computed tomography (CT) was used for the analysis of CIPP internal structure and composition.
Polymer-Based Repair Mortar Containing Waste Perlite Powder
Authors: Hermann Radek , Hodul Jakub , Jakubík Aleš
Published: August 2021

This paper deals with the problematics of utilization of waste perlite from production of expanded perlite in polymer-based material. The goal of this paper is to develop repair mortar containing as high amount of waste perlite as possible as substitution for filler. The resulting mortar exhibits very high physical-mechanical properties such as high bonding strength to a large variety of building materials. The microstructure and the re-dispersibility of filler were also studied.
Evaluation of Cured-in-Place Pipe Porosity Using CT and Microscopy
Authors: Majerová Jana , Drochytka Rostislav
Published: August 2021

It is assumed, that the pore content is related to other parameters of CIPP liners such as mechanical properties and service life or durability of pipelines. The article examines the pore structure of two different materials - composites pipes cured with steam and UV light. The pore structure was examined using an optical microscope and X-ray computed tomography (CT). The aim of the work was to verify the applicability of some methods for verifying the volume of air/gas in the cured composite.
Protection of Wood to against Degradation by TiO2: Scanning Electron Microscopy and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy
Authors: Prošek Zdeněk , Svora Petr , Kuklík Petr
Published: August 2021

External wooden structures have own place in the building industry for ages. The problem is that wood easily degrades due to UV radiation, atmospheric conditions and biological aggressors. We are trying to eliminate degradable factors by photocatalytic materials (namely titanium oxide). Those materials are efficient UV absorbers and they are able to destroy biological aggressors also. Nowadays, there is no information about the interactions between wooden surface and non-photoactive or photoactive forms of TiO2. TiO2 exists in many morphological forms. The planar particles were chosen for the purpose of our research and applied on a wooden surface. The samples of wood (namely pine) were monitored for 255 days and subsequently evaluated using an electron microscope. The use of TiO2 was compared with reference material and a reference commercial coating.
A Brief Review: Immobilization of TiO2 Photocatalyst Materials on Supporting Surfaces for Degradation of Organic Pollutants
Authors: Indriani Yulia , Sutanti Afifah Sri Agustiah Putr , Ayuningtyas Megadita , Widiyandari Hendri
Published: August 2021

The process of final disposal of industrial wastewater is an important issue to avoid contamination. Photocatalyst technology can be a solution to waste control by degrading organic pollutants. The synthesis process of TiO2 catalyst immobilized with supporting materials has been proven more efficient in photocatalyst activation. This gives a high UV adsorption power and does not require further handling of the final purification process because it does not produce a catalyst suspension. Immobilization methods are simplest but still produce high efficiency, namely, the thermal milling method and the sol-gel method. Both methods can produce 97% efficiency. Immobilization using thermal milling can take quickly and only through one step but requires a long time in the degradation process. Besides, immobilization using the sol-gel method requires several steps, but the process of degradation is fast. The method used must be by the type of support material, the pollutants to be degraded, and the operating system like coating time. This paper focuses on the immobilization method suitable to support materials to maximize the degradation process.
Instrumentation and geotechnical monitoring techniques used in the Sydney Coalfield, Nova Scotia
Authors: Gallant W D , Aston T R C
Published: August 2021

Since 1982, the Rock Mechanics Group of the EMR CANMET-CRI Cape Breton Coal Research Laboratory (CBCRL) has been closely involved in assessing the behaviour of mine openings in the underground workings of the Sydney Coalfield, Nova Scotia. This paper examines
through the use of case study data, the wide variety of geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring techniques used to assess strata behaviour during the different phases of longwall mining operations: gateroad deformation, floor heave, gateside pack behaviour and subsidence
monitoring.
Interior ballistics of fireworks mortars
Authors: Jones D E G
Published: August 2021

This report describes the use of a ballistics model and computer code originally designed to model the performance of large guns, in order to predict the effect of various parameters on I the behaviour of a firework shell in a mortar. The effect of such
parameters as mass of the lift charge, mass of the shell and mortar length have been explored and compared with experimental results. The effects of parameters such as friction, leakage area, size and shape of the grains of black powder, which are not easily accessible by experiment, have also been
studied.
Inter-laboratory comparison tests for x-ray diffraction on-filter silica analysis - February 1992
Authors: Grenier M , Pang T , Butler K
Published: August 2021

An inter-laboratory comparison test was designed and conducted to provide calibration data for X-ray diffraction procedures for the measurement of respirable silica. The participants in this study were the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Inco Ltd., Dofasco Inc.,
X-Ray Assay Laboratories and the Elliot Lake Mining Research Laboratory. The laboratories were each issued with a set of 18, 5.0 µm silver membrane filters on which a known, gravimetrically measured mass of silica had been deposited according to American Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygienists (ACGIH) respirable dust sampling guidelines. Results indicate an average mean deviation of 0.012 mg between the mass of pure silica weighed and the mass as measured by individual Labs using X-ray diffractometry for samples containing less than 0.1 mg of silica. Calculated as a percentage
for samples equal to or greater than to 0.1mg in mass, the average deviation was 15%. These deviations are calculated over three laboratories, as they do not include the high and the low value. One area of concern was the fact that one of the participating laboratories was over-estimating silica
masses by a factor of close to 2 on heavy samples (masses > 0.1 mg). This was probably due to the deterioration of silica standard filters used in routine calibration procedures. Calibration should be performed routinely, using fresh sets of standard filters each time, to avoid this
problem.
Multiple voices: Learners reflect on literature
Authors: Kromhout Jessamy , Scheckle Eileen
Published: August 2021

Background: Much of the research in literacy focuses on what learners fail to do, especially in the early grades, but it is equally important to research successful readers. In particular learners’ experiences with literature contribute to our understanding of the possibilities literary texts offer. This article focused on learners’ responses to Advanced Programme (AP) English, which was an optional subject offered at an ex-Model C school, to understand how the learners had taken up these literary texts.Objectives: This study explored how matric learners spoke about the literature they had studied, in their AP English, in an informal group meeting.Methods: A qualitative case study was used to explore learners’ responses to literature. A final focus group meeting at the end of their matric year provides the data for this article. The transcriptions were coded using repeated patterns for themes to explore the stances taken in relation to the literature whether efferent or aesthetic.Results: The data showed how learners had incorporated fragments from the literature into their own utterances so that their language use echoed the literature. In addition to an efferent exam focus, the literature and AP English practices were used in both Art and Home Language English examinations.Conclusions: Learners need opportunities to talk about the multiple voices of literature in their lives. This kind of talk offers a different perspective on how literature can enrich, disrupt and extend learners’ thinking about literature and themselves. This research offers a counterpoint to examination results and contributes to building a nation of readers.
The role of retinoic acid in the commitment to meiosis
Authors: Gewiss Rachel L. , Schleif M Christine , Griswold Michael D
Published: August 2021

Male meiosis is a complex process whereby spermatocytes undergo cell division to form haploid cells. This review focuses on the role of retinoic acid (RA) in meiosis, as well as several processes regulated by RA before cell entry into meiosis that are critical for proper meiotic entry and completion. Here, we discuss RA metabolism in the testis as well as the roles of stimulated by retinoic acid gene 8 (STRA8) and MEIOSIN, which are responsive to RA and are critical for meiosis. We assert that transcriptional regulation in the spermatogonia is critical for successful meiosis.
Visual techniques in microsurgery for intra-cranial arteriovenous malformations
Authors: Narang Sumeet , Dil Jaspreet Singh , Raja A
Published: August 2021

Arterio-venous malformations (AVMs) are anomalous shunts between the arterial and venous systems, acting as a major risk factor for intra-cerebral haemorrhage, seen in 38%–71% of patients harbouring the pathology. Current techniques in the management of AVMs include observation, microsurgery, embolisation and radiosurgery, or combination therapy. AVMs are classically categorised based on the Spetzler-Martin grading and it is generally accepted that Grades I and II are best managed by microsurgical resection. To discuss the technique of astute visual inspection of AVM malformations on the operating table in microsurgical management of AVMs, and the surgical importance and significance of the valuable inferences derived from this routine. It is of utmost importance to visually distinguish between the arterial and venous ends of the nidus, and this can be effectively accomplished through eyeballing techniques by looking at the appearance of the vessels and noticing its colour, thickness, and underlying blood; and the variations in the turgor pressure of the nidus with changes in compression of the arterial and venous ends. It is equally important to visually identify the safe and effective plane to approach the target lesion by identifying the gliotic plane, the discoloured vertex of the underlying haematoma, or the widened subarachnoid spaces. Microsurgical resection is a definite mode of treatment of intra-cranial AVMs and flawless execution of surgery is vital. Eyeballing techniques must be aimed at correctly identifying the nature of the lesion and creating a mind-map before setting out to manipulate the AVM. A good initial visual inspection and survey is a crucial measure of safety and efficiency in AVM surgery.
Cranio-vertebral junction arteriovenous fistula presenting with subarachnoid haemorrhage
Authors: Katyal Abhishek , Anil Kumar B C , Bodeliwala Shaam , Jagetia Anita , Srivastava Arvind Kumar
Published: August 2021

Perimedullary arteriovenous fistulas are uncommon vascular malformations particularly if they involve the craniovertebral junction. The complexity of the angioarchitecture of these lesions poses a further diagnostic challenge. Moreover, the therapeutic management is controversial and can include observation alone, endovascular occlusion, or surgical exclusion, depending on both patient and the angiographic characteristics of the lesion.
Quality of Life and Burden of Caregiving Among the Primary Caregivers of Children with Disability in Rural Karnataka
Authors: Arasu Sakthi , Shanbhag Deepthi
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

The primary caregiver of a child with disability has to undergo a lot of difficulties in taking care of the child.

Objective:

To assess the quality of life and burden of caregiving of primary caregivers of children with disability registered in a CBR services in rural Karnataka.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was done among 100 children with disability and their primary caregivers. Interview schedule including socio-demography, WHOQOL-BREF, ZBI and WHODAS was used.

Results:

Mean age of caregivers was 36.38 of which 97% were women and 82% were mothers of children with disability. Mean age of children was 11.43 years, 56% males and most common diagnosis was multiple disabilities (38%). Mean caregiver burden according to Zarit scale was 33.27 and mean burden scores were significantly different between the disability domains of the children. Mean quality of life (QOL) scores for each domain was 49.6 in physical, 60.47 in psychological, 45.67 in social and 58.44 in environmental domains. Marital status of the caregivers was significantly associated with both physical and the social domain of the QOL. Occupation of the caregiver was significantly associated with the environmental domain and the type of disability in the children significantly affected the physical domain of the QOL of the caregivers.

Conclusion:

Caregiver QOL is overall poor but it was the lowest in the physical domain and higher in psychological domain. Caregiver burden scores were high and depends on the type of disability. Importance should be given to the care of the caregivers.
Viral Pandemics in the Past Two Decades
Authors: Bhadoria Pooja , Gupta Gaurisha , Agarwal Anubha
Published: August 2021

An epidemic that occurs worldwide, involving many countries and affecting a large population is called as a pandemic. The ongoing corona virus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has not only adversely affected the global healthcare infrastructure, but has significantly impacted world economy, socio-political and cultural environment. There are 219 different types of viruses, known at present to be able to infect human beings. This number is just a tip of the iceberg, with the possibility of a substantial pool of undiscovered human viruses and millions of other virus species (which affect plants and non-human animals) that can be potentially infectious to humans as well. Throughout human history there have been numerous pandemics and disease outbreaks that have not only led to huge loss of life, but also hindered economic growth and development. Therefore, in this review article we wanted to highlight major viral pandemics that have occurred in the last two decades, to understand factors contributing to their emergence, transmission and suggest ways to curb future outbreaks.
Role of vaccine science diplomacy in low-middle-income countries for eradicating the vaccine-preventable diseases
Authors: Bhattacharya Sudip , Saleem Sheikh Mohd , Shikha Deep , Gokdemir Ozden , Mehta Kedar
Published: August 2021

The meaning of “vaccine diplomacy (VD)” is defined as “the use of vaccines to increase a country's diplomatic relations and influence over other nations.” The golden era of vaccine science diplomacy started during the time of Cold War between the United States (US) and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) with the development of a prototype of oral polio vaccine by the US Scientist Dr Albert Sabin working along with his Soviet counterparts. The foundation stone was already laid down by Edward Jenner when he shared his technique of the smallpox vaccine with other major countries to curb the spread of smallpox. Eventually, such a step led to the eradication of such a deadly disease. Only time has changed, not the tide. Even today, vaccines continue to remain as one of the important tools for achieving Millennium Developmental Goals (MDGs) and other targets in developing countries like India. During the wake of the Corona Virus Diseases-19 (COVID-19) pandemic, India's role in developing its vaccine science diplomacy has been a point of attraction. The phase-3 trial of Covaxin being developed by Bharat Biotech started in Lucknow and Gorakhpur in October 2020, and it is widely considered as the forerunner for the Indian vaccine market. As per the Union Health Ministry of India- “The Union Government is working on at least five distinct ways, ranging from free vaccines to guaranteed supply, in which it can help its immediate neighbours and countries in West Asia, Africa and even Latin America—officials familiar with the plan said on conditions of anonymity. The idea is to leverage the country's standing as the world's vaccine factory to merge diplomatic ties. Historically, it is observed that by the development and introduction of newer vaccines from time to time, many dismaying hurdles to vaccine science diplomacy (VSD) arise from ongoing wars and political instability. The current scenario is that both VSD and VD are at crossroads, and there is a possibility of getting a good direction if we make a piggyback policy approach of vaccine diplomacy along with the foreign policy. The lessons learned from the past must be followed now and, in the future, to make a better world for all. We acknowledge that the COVID-19 episode has again highlighted the dire need for VSD, and we assume that not only COVID-19 but in future, emerging and re-emerging diseases will occur so we have to prepare ourselves for combatting those future emerging and re-emerging diseases.
Experience from a COVID-19 screening centre of a tertiary care institution
Authors: Pradhan Somen Kumar , Sahu Dinesh Prasad , Sahoo Durgesh Prasad , Singh Arvind Kumar , Patro Binod Kumar , Mohanty Sachidananda
Published: August 2021

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a significant public health concern across the whole world, including India. In the absence of any specific treatment or vaccine against COVID-19, the role of efficient testing and reporting has been uncontested so far as the number of cases is rising daily. In order to strengthen the screening activities and to prevent nosocomial infection, facility-based screening centres have been designed and operated at various levels of healthcare, including tertiary care institutions.

Methods:

The present study has been planned with an objective to understand the patient profile and evaluate the functioning of COVID-19 screening OPD (CS-OPD) at a tertiary care hospital. In this hospital-based retrospective study, data from individuals visiting the COVID-19 screening OPD during the period from 17th March 2020 to 31st July 2020 were collected. We documented and analysed relevant demographic, epidemiological and clinical characteristics of the patients.

Results:

A total of 10,735 patients visited the COVID-19 screening OPD during the defined study period of which 3652 individuals were tested. The majority of the patients, i.e., 65.67% (7050) were male and in the 15–59 years age group (84.68%). The most common symptoms among patients visiting CS-OPD was cough (9.86%). Of the total, 17.17% (1843) of patients reported to the CS-OPD with a contact history of COVID-19–positive patient. On the other hand, 13.49% (1448) of patients were with either domestic or international travel history. The overall testing rate and positivity rate for CS-OPD during this period were found to be 34.02% and 7.94%, respectively.

Conclusion:

The clinical, demographic and epidemiological characteristics of patients visiting CS-OPD varied across the study period depending upon the containment and testing strategy. The CS-OPD played a crucial role in preventing nosocomial infection and maintaining non-COVID care at the tertiary care hospital.
India needs a resilient cancer program
Authors: Pilakkadavath Zarin I. , Rao Arathi P. , Nayar K. Rajasekharan , Kumar Raman , Koya Shaffi F.
Published: August 2021

Background:

We analyzed the trends for two important cancers affecting females, breast cancer and cervical cancer, using the Indian cancer registry data and correlated the findings with selected relevant sociodemographic and behavioral indicators.

Methods:

We examined National Family Health Survey data for the respective states in which registries are located, on relevant indicators like multiparity, early childbearing, cervical examination, multiple sexual partners/high-risk sexual behavior, and HIV prevalence (for cervical cancer), multiparity, early childbearing, duration of breastfeeding, overweight, alcohol use, and clinical breast examination (for breast cancer). We used Global Adult Tobacco Survey smoking data.

Results:

The top four positions in cancer cervix were all in registries from northeast India with a higher proportion of multiparous women (≥3 births; around 40%), whereas three major metros in the south and the national capital of Delhi, all with a relatively low proportion of multiparous women (11–25%) topped the chart for breast cancer. Overweight/obesity was higher in states with a higher incidence of breast cancer (23.3–31%) compared to states with a lower incidence (12.2–16%). No clear patterns emerged with regard to alcohol consumption, duration of breastfeeding or clinical breast examination.

Conclusion:

The shift in the childbearing age group explains the increasing breast cancer rates in urban areas, whereas the persisting higher rate of multiparity explains higher cervical cancer rates especially in underserved states in the northeast. India needs to invest in transforming its cancer control program to be a more resilient one with a focus on screening and prevention.
Job satisfaction among family medicine physicians in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abdulrahman Khalid Bin , Alnosian Moath Yosef , Alshamrani Abdulwahab Ali , ALassaf Hatim Ibrahim , Aldayel Abdulrahman Saleh , Alaskar Yazeed Ahmed , Alshehri Mohammed Abdullah
Published: August 2021

Objective:

Physicians are subject to chronic stressors, depression, and burnout due to long working hours, high requirements, and critical decision-making.[1
2
3
4
5] All those reasons contribute to the dissatisfaction of physicians. The dissatisfaction of physicians might lead to lower health-care quality.[6] Moreover, patient satisfaction is strongly affected by physician satisfaction.[7
8] This study aims to measure job satisfaction among family medicine (FM) physicians in Saudi Arabia.

Study Design:

In this cross-sectional study, we recruited 265 FM physicians working in Saudi Arabia to participate in an online survey between October 2019 and January 2019.

Results:

Results showed that more than 50% of the respondents were very satisfied with their career choice (55.5%, n = 147). Non-Saudis who were satisfied or strongly satisfied were higher than those of Saudis (P = 0.035) and 2.45 times more likely to be dissatisfied compared to non-Saudi respondents. Respondents from the southern region were 81% less likely to be dissatisfied than respondents from the central region (OR = 0.19, P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Family medicine physicians showed a high level of satisfaction with their career choice regardless of gender, age, sector public or private, marital status. This is promising for family medicine as a medical specialty. The future of health care in Saudi Arabia is driven toward general practice and primary care centers, which aligns with the future vision of Saudi Arabia 2030.
The attitude and prevalence of patient noncompliance toward chronic disease medications in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Altamimi Alhanouf Fahad , Alqahtani Zuhour Abdullah , Almughaiseeb Fay Ahmed , Alshiha Kholoud Abdullah , Alaryni Abdullah , Alotaibi Azzam
Published: August 2021

Background:

Failure of patients' adherence to medications has been a big issue for both physicians and patients; not only it does affect the patients' health but also it affects the financial status of the hospital and the patient.

Objective:

This investigation aims to explore the prevalence and the factors affecting the compliance of patients with chronic conditions to their medications.

Materials and Methods:

An online survey was distributed to patients who had chronic conditions and lived in the main cities of Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire included sections about the patients' general characters, type of chronic disease, the pattern of prescribed medications' usage, and factors affecting compliance of patients toward their medications. Data was collected in a predesigned excel sheet, and analysis was executed through SPSS program version 26.

Results:

301 patients responded to this questionnaire. The lowest incidence of missing pills was among patients with heart failure, followed by chronic kidney disease, whereas the highest frequency of missing pills was among patients with vitamin D deficiency, followed by hyperlipidemia. 38.5% of the patients used mobile applications as reminders for the administration of their medications. 50% of the patients who use reminders take more than four pills a day. 48.2% of the patients stopped medications without consulting their doctors, where 20.9% stopped one medication for less than a month. 57.5% forgot to take drug doses in a year, with a mean of 8.55 ± 26.3 forgotten doses. Females, patients aging between 31 and 45 years old, obese, married, illiterate, self-employed, those who follow with military hospitals, exercising regularly, and ex-smoker all showed a higher incidence of noncompliance to medications. The main reason for noncompliance was forgetfulness in 60% of patients. 63.2% of the patients did not have a GP to help them with medications compliance.

Conclusion:

The compliance of Saudi patients toward their chronic medications requires improvement. Similar studies in other areas in Saudi Arabia are recommended.
Cost analyses of hospital admissions among the elderly seeking care at a rural tertiary care hospital, South India
Authors: Tripathi Ruchi R. , Reddy Mahendra M. , Bhattacharyya Ananta
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

In a developing country like India, a proportionately higher number of elderly people live in the rural areas and many of them are financially challenged. Hospitalization and consequent cost thereto pose a heavy burden especially for the elderly.

Objective:

Among elderly in.patients at a tertiary care rural hospital to estimate the average number of episodes of hospitalizations, duration of stay in the hospital, and the direct and indirect costs associated with hospitalizations with 1 year as a reference period.

Materials and Methods:

A structured pre.tested questionnaire was used to capture the details regarding hospitalizations and the costs involved and also the hospital records were verified for the current hospital admission to finally arrive at the direct and indirect costs calculations. Quantitative details like age, episodes of hospitalization in the last 1 year, duration of hospitalization, hospitalization costs, etc., were summarized as median (inter.quartile range [IQR]). Costing analyses were noted separately as direct, indirect, and total costs and expressed in Indian National Rupees (INR).

Results:

The total number of episodes of hospitalization among the 150 study participants was 204 with a mean of 1.36 episodes per person in 1-year duration. The average total cost per episode of hospitalization was found to be INR 11,249 while the average total cost per person per day was INR 1,670.30. The median (IQR) direct and indirect costs were INR 6,222 (3,060-12,670) and INR 690 (200-700), respectively.

Conclusion:

Duration, as well as cost of hospitalization, has been found to be more among females in most age groups among elderly in.patients.
How to choose and interpret a statistical test? An update for budding researchers
Authors: Najmi Ahmad , Sadasivam Balakrishnan , Ray Avik
Published: August 2021

Postgraduate medical students are often not able to select and interpret the findings of statistical tests during their thesis or research projects. To go ahead with selection of tests to be performed, researchers need to determine the objectives of study, types of variables, analysis and the study design, number of groups and data sets, and the types of distribution. In this review, we summarize and explain various statistical tests to help postgraduate medical students to select the most appropriate techniques for their thesis and dissertation.
Релятивистский линейный осциллятор под действием постоянной внешней силы. Волновые функции и динамическая группа симметрии
Authors: Nagiyev Shakir Mamed , Mir-Kassimov Rufat Mir-Asadulla
Published: August 2021

Детально рассмотрена точно решаемая релятивистская модель линейного осциллятора при наличии постоянной внешней силы как в импульсном, так и в релятивистском конфигурационном представлениях. Установлено, что, в отличие от нерелятивистского случая, в зависимости от значения силы возможны как дискретный, так и непрерывный спектры энергии. Показано, что в случае дискретного спектра волновые функции в импульсном представлении выражаются через полиномы Лагерра, а в релятивистском конфигурационном представлении - через полиномы Мейкснера-Поллачека. Найдены интегральные и дифференциально-разностные формулы, связывающие полиномы Лагерра и Мейкснера-Поллачека. Построена динамическая группа симметрии.
Замечания о соответствии между иерархиями КП и BКП
Authors: Orlov Aleksandr Yur'evich
Published: August 2021

Представлен ряд замечаний, связанных с ранее полученными результатами, о полиномиальных решениях, вершинных операторах и задаче на собственные значения для многочленов иерархии КП и иерархии BКП. Добавлены новые результаты, касающиеся билинейных соотношений между характерами симметрической группы и группы Сергеева и билинейных соотношений между косыми и проективными функциями Шура, а также между сдвинутыми функциями Шура и проективными функциями Шура.
Изучение анизотропных странных звезд в рамках гравитации Расталла
Authors: Salako Ines Godonou , Boko Dognon Rachidi , Pomalegni Gisele F , Arouk M Z
Published: August 2021

С использованием теории гравитации Расталла изучается странная кварковая материя, распределение которой управляется упрощенным уравнением состояния модели MIT-мешка. Получено точное решение модифицированного уравнения Толмана-Оппенгеймера-Волкова. Для выбранных значений параметра Расталла $\lambda_{\scriptscriptstyle{\mathrm{Ras}}}$ изучено поведение различных физических характеристик: полной массы, радиуса, плотности энергии и давления. Для проверки физической состоятельности предложенной модели звезды проведены различные подробные тесты, опирающиеся на анализ энергетических условий, соотношения масса-радиус, коэффициента компактификации, красного смещения; кроме того, исследованы стабильность системы, условия причинности и адиабатический индекс при разных значениях $\lambda_{\scriptscriptstyle{\mathrm{Ras}}}$. Дано точное объяснение эффектов, возникающих в зависимости от параметра Расталла и геометрии компактной звездной системы. Обнаружено, что по мере уменьшения параметра $\lambda_{\scriptscriptstyle{\mathrm{Ras}}}$ кандидаты на роль странных звезд постепенно становятся более массивными и увеличиваются в размерах, образуя менее плотную конфигурацию. Когда $\lambda_{\scriptscriptstyle{\mathrm{Ras}}}$ увеличивается, звезда постепенно сжимается и становится менее массивной, чтобы далее превратиться в более компактную звездную систему. Следовательно, при $\lambda_{\scriptscriptstyle{\mathrm{Ras}}}>0$ в пределах наблюдений предложенная модель подходит для объяснения сверхплотных компактных звезд, а при $\lambda_{\scriptscriptstyle{\mathrm{Ras}}}<0$ позволяет описать недавно обнаруженные массивные пульсары и звезды супер-Чандрасекара. Для $\lambda_{\scriptscriptstyle{\mathrm{Ras}}}=1$ получаются стандартные результаты общей теории относительности.
Трехмерные вихри в модели Гейзенберга
Authors: Borisov Aleksandr Borisovich
Published: August 2021

С помощью дифференциальной подстановки найдено точное решение трехмерной модели Гейзенберга ($SO(3)$-модель в теории поля). Получены новые типы трехмерных вихревых структур в этой модели.
Существование и единственность неподвижных точек интегрального оператора типа Хаммерштейна
Authors: Khaidarov Farkhod Khalimzhonovich
Published: August 2021

Изучается проблема существования и единственности положительных неподвижных точек интегрального оператора типа Хаммерштейна в пространстве непрерывных функций. При определенных условиях на интегральный оператор установлены требования, при которых он имеет ровно одну положительную неподвижную точку.
Метод дробных производных для описания солитонов
на поверхности глубокой воды
Authors: Avrutskii Vsevolod Igorevich , Ishkhanyan Artur Mikhailovich , Krainov Vladimir Pavlovich
Published: August 2021

Метод дробных производных используется в волновом уравнении для учета дисперсии волн при описании распространения гравитационных солитонных волн на поверхности глубокой воды. Этот подход аналогичен тому, который применяется при получении уравнения Кортевега-де Фриза для солитонов на поверхности мелкой воды, где дисперсионное слагаемое волнового уравнения представляет собой третью производную скорости. Он является альтернативой известному подходу Захарова и др., основанному на модели нелинейного уравнения Шредингера. Получаемое нелинейное интегральное уравнение решается численно.