bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geometrichem Game to Improve Student Learning Autonomy in Molecular Shape Topic
Authors: Gholiyah Sanih , Lutfi Achmad
Published: June 2021

The aim of this research is to determine the feasibility of Geometrichem game as learning media to improve student learning autonomy in molecular shape topic according to validity, practicality, and effectiveness. Geometrichem game is expected to improve student learning autonomy. The research method applied was Research and Development: (1) preliminary study, (2) development of the product, (3) trial. The trial was conducted to 18 students of SMAN 1 Gresik. The result showed that Goemterichem game is feasible as learning media in molecular shape topic as (1) validity reached 89,29% or highly valid, (2) practicality reached 84,03% or highly practical according to response questionnaire, and 78,79% or good according to student activity observation, (3) effectiveness reached 77,78% according to classical completeness. Geometrichem game improved student learning autonomy in student motivation, use of learning resource, self-evaluation, and environmental factor aspects, but not in learning strategy, planning, and self-monitoring aspects.
On generalizations of the optimal choice problem
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Belkov Igor V.
Published: June 2021

The article is dedicated to some generalizations of the classical optimal choice problem (the fastidious bride problem, the secretary problem). Let there be a sequence of n identically distributed random variables on the interval [0, 1]. Getting consistently observed values of these variables, we should stop at some moment on one of them, accepting it as the initial point for counting upper or lower record values. In the optimal choice problem and its generalizations, it is needed to make the correct choice of the initial point of counting records, in order to guess the place of the last record (the classical optimal choice problem) or to maximize the expected sum of upper and/or lower record values or the expected total number of upper and/or lower records, obtained by this procedure. A review of results on the uniform distribution of the random variables and some new results concerning the exponential distribution are presented.
Algebraic solution of a problem of optimal project scheduling in project management
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Krivulin Nikolay K. , Gubanov Sergey A. ,   St. Petersburg State University
Published: June 2021

A problem of optimal scheduling is considered for a project that consists of a certain set of works to be performed under given constraints on the times of start and finish of the works. As the optimality criterion for scheduling, the maximum deviation of the start time of works is taken to be minimized. Such problems arise in project management when it is required, according to technological, organizational, economic or other reasons, to provide, wherever possible, simultaneous start of all works. The scheduling problem under consideration is formulated as a constrained minimax optimization problem and then solved using methods of tropical (idempotent) mathematics which deals with the theory and applications of semirings with idempotent addition. First, a tropical optimization problem is investigated defined in terms of a general idempotent semifield (an idempotent semiring with invertible multiplication), and a complete analytical solution of the problem is derived. The result obtained is then applied to find a direct solution of the scheduling problem in a compact vector form ready for further analysis of solutions and straightforward computations. As an illustration, a numerical example of solving optimal scheduling problem is given for a project that consists of four works.
Coupled vibrations of viscoelastic three-layer composite plates. 2. Numerical experiments
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Ryabov Victor M. , Yartsev Boris A. ,   St. Petersburg State University,   Krylov State Research Center, Parshina Ludmila V. ,   Krylov State Research Center
Published: June 2021

Results of numerical studies of the influence of reinforcement orientation of hard layers and the relative thickness of the soft layer of an isotropic viscoelastic polymer on the values of natural frequencies and coefficients of mechanical losses are discussed. In a symmetrical three-layer plate, a bending-torsion interaction arises, generating mutual transformations of the eigenmodes of the coupled vibration modes, if at least one of its own forms in plate directions is characterized by an even number quarters of a wave, and another proper form - an odd number of quarters the waves. In an unsymmetrical asymmetric three-layer plate, bending-bending interaction arises, generating mutual transformations eigenmodes of coupled vibration modes in two mutually orthogonal planes if in the main directions of the plate both of their own forms characterized by either an even or an odd number of quarters of a wave. It was found that each mode of natural vibrations of three-layer plates corresponds to the effective relative thickness of the soft isotropic layer viscoelastic polymer.
Is Jacobi theorem valid in the singly averaged restricted circular Three-Body-Problem?
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University, Kholshevnikov Konstantin V. ,   Institute of Applied Astronomy RAS
Published: June 2021

C. Jacobi found that in the General N-Body-Problem (including N = 3) for the Lagrangian stability of any solution necessary is the negativity of the total energy of the system. For the restricted three-body-problem, this statement is trivial, since a zero-mass body introduces zero contribution to the energy of the system. If we consider only the equations describing the movement of the zero mass point, then the energy integral disappears. However, if we average the equations over the longitudes of the main bodies, the energy integral appears again. Is the Jacobi theorem valid in this case? It turned out not. For arbutrary large values of total energy, there exist bounded periodic orbits. At the same time the negative energy is sufficient for the boundedness of an orbit in the configuration space.
उपचार आर्द्रभूमियााँ
Authors: Dotro Gabriela , Langergraber Günter , Molle Pascal , Nivala Jaime , Puigagut Jaume , Stein Otto , von Sperling Marcos
Published: June 2021

उपचार आर्द्रभूमियााँ ‘जैविक अपमिष्ट जल’ िें सातिाृं खृंड है

उपचार श्ृंखर ला, जो सीिेज उपचार के विज्ञान और तकनीक की अत्याधुननक प्रस्तुनत देती है। आर्द्रभूमि प्रणामलयों के प्रिुख प्रकार इस खृंड िें िामिल हैं, नाितः: (i) क्षैनतज प्रिाह आर्द्रभूमि; (ii) ऊध्िारधर प्रिाह आर्द्रभूमि; (iii) फ्रें च ऊध्िारधर प्रिाह आर्द्रभूमि; (iv) सघन आर्द्रभूमि; (v) िुक्त जल सतह आर्द्रभूमि; (vi) उपचार आर्द्रभूमि के अन्य अनुप्रयोि। पुस्तक िुख्य अिधारणाओृं, कािकाजी मसद्धाृंतों, अपेक्षक्षत प्रदिरन, डडजाइन िानदृंड, डडजाइन उदाहरण, ननिारण पहलुओृं और पररचालन द्रदिाननदेिों को स्पष्ट और उपचारात्िक तरीके से प्रस्तुत करती है। पुस्तक को उपचार के क्षेत्र के िीर्र वििेर्ज्ञों की एक अृंतरराष्रीय टीि ने मलखा है।

श्ृंखर ला के बारे िें:

इस बहुप्रिृंमसत श्ृंखर ला िें सात पाठ्यपुस्तकें िामिल हैं - वप्रटृं िें या िुक्त-अमभिि ई-पुस्तकों के रूप िें उपलब्लध - जो जैविक अपमिष्ट जल उपचार के विज्ञान और तकनीक की एक अत्याधुननक प्रस्तुनत प्रदान करती हैं। विकमसत और विकासिील देिों िें छात्रों, िोधकतारओृं और अभ्यासकों द्िारा श्ृंखर ला के सभी खण्डों का व्यापक रूप से उपयोि क्रकया िया है। जैविक अपमिष्ट जल उपचार श्ृंखर ला िें िीर्कर हैं: खृंड 1: अपमिष्ट जल के लक्षण, उपचार और ननपटानखृंड 2: अपमिष्ट जल उपचार के िूल मसद्धाृंतखृंड 3: अपमिष्ट स्स्िरीकरण तालाबखृंड 4: अिायािीय ररएक्टरखृंड 5: सक्रिय कीचड़ और िायुजीिी बायोक्रिल्ि ररएक्टरखृंड 6: कीचड़ उपचार और ननपटानखृंड 7: उपचार आर्द्रभूमियााँ

आईएसबीएन: 9781780408767 (पेपरबैक)

आईएसबीएन: 9781789062564 (ई-पुस्तक)
Daily vs. hourly simulation for estimating future flood peaks in mesoscale catchments
Authors: Beylich Marcus , Haberlandt Uwe , Reinstorf Frido
Published: June 2021

Daily hydrological models are commonly used to study changes in flood peaks due to climate change. Although they often lead to an underestimation of absolute floods, it is assumed that future flood peaks in smaller mesoscale catchments are less underestimated when examining the relative change signal of floods. In this study, the applicability of this hypothesis is investigated by comparing the results of a daily hydrological model set, calibrated on runoff hydrographs, with an hourly model set calibrated on flood peak distributions. For analysis, a daily RCP8.5 climate model ensemble is disaggregated to hourly values and the runoff is simulated on a daily and hourly basis for six mesoscale catchments in Central Germany. Absolute floods and relative flood changes are compared between both model sets. The results show significant differences between the absolute floods of both model sets, in most cases caused by underestimations due to the daily modeling process. In contrast, the differences between the two model sets are not significant for the relative change signal of the floods, especially for higher return periods. To improve results in climate studies with coarse modeling time step, the use of relative change signal of floods instead of absolute values is recommended.
From Anti-infective Agents to Cancer Therapy: A Drug Repositioning Study Revealed a New Use for Nitrofuran Derivatives
Authors: Ortore Gabriella , Poli Giulio , Martinelli Adriano , Tuccinardi Tiziano , Rizzolio Flavio , Caligiuri Isabella
Published: June 2021

Background:

The progression of ovarian cancer seems to be related to HDAC1, HDAC3,
and HDAC6 activity. A possible strategy for improving therapies for treating ovarian carcinoma,
minimizing the preclinical screenings, is the repurposing of already approved pharmaceutical products
as inhibitors of these enzymes.

Objective:

This work was aimed to implement a computational strategy for identifying new HDAC
inhibitors for ovarian carcinoma treatment among approved drugs.

Method:

The CHEMBL database was used to construct training, test, and decoys sets for performing
and validating HDAC1, HDAC3 and HDAC6 3D-QSAR models obtained by using the FLAP program.
Docking and MD simulations were used in combination with the generated models to identify
novel potential HDAC inhibitors. Cell viability assays and Western blot analyses were performed on
normal and cancer cells for a direct evaluation of the anti-proliferative activity and an in vitro estimation
of HDAC inhibition of the compounds selected through in silico screening.

Result:

The best quantitative prediction was obtained for the HDAC6 3D-QSAR model. The screening
of approved drugs highlighted a new potential use as HDAC inhibitors for some compounds, in
particular nitrofuran derivatives, usually known for their antibacterial activity and frequently used as
antimicrobial adjuvant therapy in cancer treatment. Experimental evaluation of these derivatives
highlighted a significant antiproliferative activity against cancer cell lines overexpressing HDAC6,
and an increase in acetylated alpha-tubulin levels.

Conclusion:

Experimental results support the hypothesis of potential direct interaction of nitrofuran
derivatives with HDACs. In addition to the possible repurposing of already approved drugs, this
work suggests the nitro group as a new zinc-binding group, able to interact with the catalytic zinc ion
of HDACs.
Anticancer Effects of Tacrolimus on Induced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
in Mice
Authors: Mahmoud Shireen S. , Hussein Samia , Rashed Hayam , Abdelghany Eman M. A. , Ali Alaa I.
Published: June 2021

Background:

Tacrolimus is a calcineurin inhibitor widely used for immunological disorders.
However, there is significant controversy regarding its effect on the liver. The present study
was conducted to evaluate the anticancer effects of tacrolimus on an induced murine hepatocellular
carcinoma (HCC) model and its possible hepatotoxicity at standard therapeutic doses.

Methods:

Fifty-four male mice were divided into five groups: a control healthy group, control
HCC group, tacrolimus-treated group, doxorubicin (DOXO)-treated group, and combined tacrolimus-
and DOXO-treated group. The activity of liver enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase, gamma-
glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase,
was determined. Serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) was measured using an enzyme-
linked immunosorbent assay. A quantitative real time- polymerase chain reaction (qRTPCR)
was conducted to measure the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), Bax,
and p53 mRNA. Immunohistochemical staining for cyclin D1 and VEGF was performed.

Results:

Mice that received combined treatment with tacrolimus and DOXO exhibited the best improvement
in all parameters when compared with the groups that received DOXO or tacrolimus
alone (p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The combination of DOXO and tacrolimus was more effective in the management of
HCC compared with either agent alone. This improvement was detected by the reduction of liver
enzymes and the improvement of the histopathological profile. The involved mechanisms included
significant apoptosis induction demonstrated by upregulation of bax along with a reduction in angiogenesis
demonstrated by downregulation of VEGF. This was accompanied by inhibition of cell
cycle progression mediated by upregulated p53 and downregulated PCNA and cyclin D1.
Numerical Simulation and Experimentation of Atomization Field of
Fan-Shaped Atomization Nozzle for UAV
Authors: Xiao Maohua , Zhao Yuanfang , Sun Zhenmin , Liu Chaohui , Zhang Tianpeng
Published: June 2021

Background:

Due to the influence of external wind speed and their flight speed, the droplets
sprayed by the plant protection Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) have serious drift and volatilization.

Objective:

The aim was to study the atomization characteristics of the fan-shaped atomizing nozzle of
UAV under different inlet pressures and in different internal cavity diameters.

Methods:

Firstly, the Realizable k-ε turbulence model, DPM discrete phase model, and TAB breakup
model are used to make a numerical simulation of the spray process of the nozzle. Then, the SIMPLE
algorithm is used to obtain the droplet size distribution diagram of the nozzle atomization field. At last,
the related test methods are used to study its atomization performance and the changes of atomization
angle and droplet velocity under different inlet pressures and in different internal cavity diameters; the
distribution of droplet size is also discussed.

Results:

The research results show that when the diameter of the internal cavity is the same, as the inlet
pressure increases, the spray cone angle of the nozzle and the droplet velocity at the same distance from
the nozzle increase. As the distance from the nozzle increases, the droplet velocity decreases gradually,
the droplet size distribution moves to the direction of small diameter, and the droplets in the anti-drift
droplet size area increase. Under the same inlet pressure, as the diameter of the internal cavity increases,
the spray cone angle first increases and then decreases, and the droplet velocity at the same distance
from the nozzle increases. As the distance from the nozzle increases, the droplet velocity decreases
gradually, the droplet size distribution moves to the direction of large diameter, and the size of the large
droplets increases, thereby, not meeting the condition of anti-drift volatilization effect.

Conclusion:

Under the parameters set in this study, i.e., when the inlet pressure was 0.6 MPa, and the
internal cavity diameter was 2 mm, the best atomization result was obtained.
Perbandingan Interaksi Karbon Aktif dengan Polaritas Minyak Nabati terhadap Karakteristik Pembakaran Premixed
Authors: Purnami Purnami , Wardana I Nyoman Gede
Published: June 2021

Crude oil consumption has increased since the discovery of crude oil-fueled engine technology. However, the increase in crude oil consumption is not offset by the productivity of the product. This results in a reduced availability of crude oil. One solution found was to use alternative fuels from vegetable oils. Several researches have proven that vegetable oils can be used as fuel. The results of the research found potential in jatropha oil and palm oil. However, jatropha oil and palm oil contain glycerol compounds which can affect the results of its combustion, because glycerol can absorb heat and result in firing more difficult. Based on that, modification and development are needed to support the use of jatropha oil and palm oil as alternative fuels by studying oil polarity and adding catalysts for coconut shell-activated carbon. Jatropha oil has low polarity (C18) which is more volatile than palm oil which has high polarity (C13). The variation used in this research is the addition of activated carbon with a concentration of 0 ppm, 200 ppm, and 400 ppm in each oil. The addition of activated carbon will facilitate evaporation because oil molecules become more reactive more freely.
European experience application in replacing hydrofluorocarbons in air conditioning units in domestic railway transport
Authors: Mazurin I. M. , Naumenko S. N.
Published: June 2021

Adoption by Russia of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the ozone layer posed a very difficult task for consumers of artificial cold, including rail transport, to find an acceptable alternative to the R134a freon and mixtures based on it, which is being phased out. Considering that there are no equivalent alternatives to these substances on the market, it was proposed to consider the use of widely known and previously used working fluids in climate technology, based on the positive experience of the European Union (EU) countries. The article analyzes the reasons for the bans on the use of hydrofluorocarbons, presents the mechanism for the legal use of refrigerants that are safe for humans and nature in the EU and a version of the roadmap for converting the climatic units of the Russian Railways holding to R22 freon and other types of fluorocarbons within the framework of the Kigali Amendment.
New bench for testing the reliability of windows and doors of passenger cars
Authors: Makarov V. A.
Published: June 2021

The article describes a new bench for testing the reliability of passenger car windows and doors. The bench can be used in various industries, mainly in transport engineering, as well as in the construction industry. This bench is functionally designed to test the entire product (windows or doors), as well as to determine the service life of individual mechanisms of this product. In contrast to the known analogs, the new bench for testing the reliability of windows and doors allows testing under the influence of variable aerodynamic pressure arising from the operation of windows and doors on moving objects, for example on high-speed transport. Specially developed test method is proposed on this bench, which allows simulating alternating aerodynamic effects on windows and doors that occur when a train passes tunnels or when trains in opposite directions diverge at high speeds. Thanks to this, bench tests can serve as an actual addition to the existing methods of testing windows and doors of modern high-speed rolling stock.
Methodology for constructing digital twins in railway transport
Authors: Shevchenko D. V.
Published: June 2021

Fourth industrial revolution covers all areas of human economic activity, including areas related to the design and operation of various products (nuclear power plant building, freight car, MEMS devices, etc.) throughout their entire life cycle. One of the main tools for digital transformation of industry to meet new competitive requirements is the Digital Twin, which is always built for a specific physical object. The introduction of digital twins technology into the life cycle of a freight car will increase economic efficiency throughout its life cycle.

Effective use of the digital twin technology is possible only when an adequate virtual model of the space surrounding this physical object is created. In this regard, predicting the behavior of a structure during motion on the basis of a high-precision model of a digital twin of a physical object requires the creation of a virtual space in which a virtual operation area will be implemented, which provides the possibility of mathematical modeling of motion. To do this, it is necessary to create virtual stands and operation areas, where it will be possible to carry out numerical tests. Creation of a high-quality virtual space will drastically reduce the number of field tests carried out, and study the effect of a larger number of parameters on the performance characteristics of a physical object.

Creation and use of digital twins is consistent with the goals, objectives and action plan of the Strategy for the development of transport engineering in the Russian Federation for the period up to 2030. The introduction of digital twins in railway transport, in particular in freight rolling stock, will make it possible to correctly assign the service life, overhaul times, and increase operational efficiency, collect information about the real load, etc. To maintain competitive advantages over other modes of transport, the transport industry needs to develop towards the introduction of elements of the fourth industrial revolution, including digital twins.
What Could Aid in Slowing Down Cognitive Function?
Authors: Ilhan Azad , Varli Murat , Bilgic Pelin
Published: June 2021

The objective of this research was to assess the relationship between cognitive function, physical activity level, nutritional and depression status in the elderly.
Materials and Methods. A total of 200 individuals (≥ 65 years) were included in the study. General characteristics of the individuals, biochemical findings, nutritional habits, 24-hour physical activity level and food consumption records were assessed. Cognitive function and depression status were screened by the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination (S-MMSE) and Geriatric Depression Scale-Short Form (GDS-SF), respectively.
Results. Thirty-eight (19%) of the 200 individuals were diagnosed with dementia. On the evaluation of all the individuals, moderate and statistically significant negative correlation (r=-0.558, p < 0.01) was found between the S-MMSE and GDS-SF values. In addition, a moderate and statistically significant positive correlation was found between the S-MMSE and physical activity level values (r=0.553, p < 0.01). Vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B6, and zinc intakes were lower in women than in men (p < 0.05). Moreover, it was observed that the vitamin B3 and calcium intakes were below the recommended daily intake in both the genders.
Conclusions. Proper nutritional treatment and increasing the levels of physical activity may aid in slowing down the progression of dementia.
Compliance with Postoperative Recommendations by Patients with Different Psychological Types after Early Implant Loading Treatment
Authors: Pelekhan Bogdan , Rozhko Mykola , Pelekhan Lyubomyr , Rozhko Olena
Published: June 2021

The objective of the research was to explore the relationship between different psychological types of patients with an edentulous mandible and their attitudes toward postoperative recommendations and prescriptions after early implant loading treatment.

Materials and Methods. The study was conducted at the Dentistry Center (University Clinic, Ivano-Frankivsk National Medical University), November 2019 - March 2020. Study group consisted of 28 individuals with an edentulous mandible. Patients were divided into subgroups (philosophical, exacting-mind, indifferent, and hysterical) based on their mental characteristics. Surveys about complaints, compliance with postoperative recommendations and prescriptions were performed on the 2nd, 4th, 8-10th and 12-14th days after surgical treatment.

Results. Clinical evaluation data, patients’ complaints, and compliance with the postoperative treatment protocol after early implant loading treatment were analyzed. The degree of compliance to prescribed recommendations in patients with different psychological types were evaluated and discussed.

Conclusions. According to the results within the limitations of this study, it can be concluded that compliance with postoperative recommendations and prescriptions is highly dependent on the patient’ psychological type.
Why HAL 9000 is not the future of intelligence analysis
Authors: Pili Giangiuseppe
Published: June 2021

Intelligence analysis is a core function of the intelligence process, and its goal is to synthesize reliable information to assist decision-makers to take a course of action toward an uncertain future. There is no escape from uncertainty, friction, and the fog of war. Since the dawn of human history, the present moment has been experienced as unpredictable, and the challenge of determining the right future through sound decisions has always existed. Investing in new technology, continually touted as the answer for analytic troubles, seems far less difficult in the short run than trying to find consensus about a long-term vision. It is easier to develop a nuclear missile, for example, than to give a universal definition of peace, and this is what the history of the XX century was all about. While intelligence analysis is still a necessary tool for decision-makers, it is unclear who or what will perform this function in the future. Though the solution cannot be only technological, the current trajectory tells a different story whereby the human analysts are removed from their central position to make way for Artificial Intelligence.
Red Scare Three
Authors: Adams Unger Granite
Published: June 2021

This article documents the history of united front work in Canada. It demonstrates how the Chinese Communist Party has long been engaged in a persistent campaign of interference in our politics and how the Canadian political establishment has been slow in recognizing this fact. It also seeks to explain why this realization was so slow in coming. Finally, it concludes by offering two alternative visions for how Canada might address this threat now that it has been recognized and makes a brief case for which is preferable.
“Norm Subsidiarity” or “Norm Diffusion”?
Authors: Mohamed Ali Hanan
Published: June 2021

Cybercrime has been a contentious issue among security actors, vis-à-vis the extent to which international cooperation may be fostered to respond to the accelerating incidence of cyber-attacks. This paper contrasts between the cyber-governance approaches adopted by two non-Western regional organizations, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the Gulf Cooperation Council, over the past decade. Considering their similar institutional origins, Most Similar Systems Design methodology was employed to assess how ASEAN and GCC have distinctly responded to cybercrime. It considers the dynamics of the digital divide — a divide which is exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic — and in which ASEAN and the GCC are challenged to bolster their cyber-capabilities. Findings reveal that GCC increasingly diffuses norms of international cooperation to tackle cybercrime. By contrast, ASEAN embodies cyber norms which regulate behavior along the lines of intra-regional cooperation, wherein norms of international cooperation are rendered subsidiary to norms of regional autonomy.
Technology and Racism
Authors: Chu Paige
Published: June 2021

On April 23, 2021, Paige Chu presented Technology and Racism: An Environment for Violence? at the Generation Z Congress. The presentation was followed by a moderated question and answer period and further discussion in a moderated break-out room. Key points of discussion included: how technology has allowed for public issues to be absorbed into private spaces, the differential experiences with the use of technology, how technology has been used to perpetuate racism, and the difficulties with holding tech companies accountable.
Tip of the iceberg: Immunohistochemical markers reveal malignant transformation underneath a vocal polyp surface
Authors: Braut Tamara , Krstulja Mira , Oštarijaš Eduard , Vučinić Damir , Zamolo Gordana , Kujundžić Milodar , Maržić Diana , Marijić Blažen
Published: June 2021

Novel molecular techniques including markers of laryngeal carcinogenesis could improve the difficult diagnosis of a wide array of laryngeal polypoid changes. The case reported herein shows that not every clinically diagnosed vocal fold polyp is a benign lesion as mostly considered in the literature. Further assessment including carcinogenesis markers detected a nest of micro-invasive squamous cell carcinoma. Therefore, we recommend biopsy backed up with immunohistochemical analysis whenever there is a suspicious polypoid formation in order to exclude or confirm a malignant transformation because of the possibility of multi-focal growth in the active laryngeal epithelium.
Epidemiological characteristics of premature infants born at General Hospital Pula in a five-year-period (2012-2016)
Authors: Jašić Mladen , Drašković Dorotea , Butorac Ahel Ivona , Kraguljac Darko
Published: June 2021

Aim: To summarize our five-year experience in management of premature infants at our second level neonatal facility. Patients and methods: This prospective birth cohort study was performed at the Division of Neonatology (level 2), Department of Paediatrics, General hospital Pula during a five-year-period (January 1st 2012 – December 31st 2016). The study population included all live-born neonates born between 22nd and 37th gestational week. Results: During the above mentioned five-year-period, 289 premature infants were born at General Hospital Pula. One-hundred and sixty seven (58%) neonates were delivered vaginally and 122 (42%) were delivered by caesarean section. Nineteen (7%) neonates were born after in vitro fertilization. Infants were mostly male (N=167; 58%), and appropriate for gestational age (N=240; 83%). Also, the infants belonged mostly to the late-preterm group (N=245; 85%). Thirty-three premature infants (11%) were transferred to a tertiary paediatric centre and five neonates died (2%). The overall cost of hospital stay for hospitalized premature infants was 2,517,000 Croatian kunas (cost for one patient: median 4800, range 3,225-53,325); in euros, it was 335,600 (cost for one patient: median 640, range 430-7,110) respectively. The overall hospital stay was 10.01±8.30 days (median 8.00, range 1.00-67.00). Conclusion: Despite the great development of neonatal intensive care, the best prevention of complications related to prematurity is to prevent preterm labour.
Трибологические исследования слоев alpha-beta-Ga-=SUB=-2-=/SUB=-O-=SUB=-3-=/SUB=- в паре с сапфировым контртелом
Authors: Бутенко П.Н. , Гузилова Л.И. , Чикиряка А.В. , Печников А.И. , Николаев В.И.
Published: June 2021

Рассмотрена износостойкость эпитаксиальных слоев alpha- и beta-полиморфов оксида галлия, выращенных на сапфировых подложках. Это одно из первых исследований трибологических свойств перспективного широкозонного полупроводникового кристалла. В результате проведенных триботестов с участием сапфирового контртела в процессе сухого трения на воздухе показано, что слои метастабильного alpha-Ga2O3 более стойки к истиранию, чем слои термостабильной beta-фазы. При этом полученные величины коэффициентов износа позволяют отнести оба полиморфа к износостойким материалам, и особенно alpha-Ga2O3 со структурой корунда. Кроме того, alpha- и beta-Ga2O3 демонстрируют крайне низкие значения коэффициентов трения, ниже, чем таковые у сапфира. Ключевые слова: оксид галлия, эпитаксиальный слой, трибология, износостойкость, коэффициент трения.
Магнитные и радиопоглощающие свойства поликристаллического феррита-шпинели Li-=SUB=-0.33-=/SUB=-Fe-=SUB=-2.29-=/SUB=-Zn-=SUB=-0.21-=/SUB=-Mn-=SUB=-0.17-=/SUB=-0-=SUB=-4-=/SUB=-
Authors: Исаев И.М. , Костишин В.Г. , Коровушкин В.В. , Салогуб Д.В. , Шакирзянов Р.И. , Тимофеев А.В. , Миронович А.Ю.
Published: June 2021

Polycrystalline spinel ferrites of the composition Li0.33Fe2.29Zn0.21Mn0.17O4 were synthesized by using the ceramic technology method at sintering temperatures of 950 ° C, 1000 ° C, 1050 ° C, and 1100 ° C. Magnetic hysteresis loops and magnetic permeability of the experimental samples were studied in the range of magnetic fields of -400–400 A/m. In the frequency range of 0.01–7.0 GHz, the behavior of the complex dielectric and complex magnetic permeability, as well as the reflection coefficient on a metal plate, are investigated. It was found that the optimal sintering temperature range for synthesized ferrites is from 1050 ° C to 1100 ° C. It is shown that the spinel ferrite Li0.33Fe2.29Zn0.21Mn0.17O4 intensely absorbs electromagnetic radiation in the frequency range from 0.05 to 7.0 GHz. Possibilities of practical application of the obtained results are discussed.
Демонстрация эффекта резистивного переключения отдельных филаментов в мемристорных структурах Ag/Ge/Si методом атомно-силовой микроскопии
Authors: Воронцов В.А. , Антонов Д.А. , Круглов A.В. , Антонов И.Н. , Koтомина В.E. , Шенгуров В.Г. , Денисов С.А. , Чалков В.Ю. , Филатов Д.О. , Горшков O.Н.
Published: June 2021

Resistive switching effect of separate dislocations in Ag/Ge/Si(001) memristor structures was demonstrated experimentally by Conductive Atomic Force Microscopy. Hysteresis loops typical for bipolar resistive switching were observed in the current-voltage curves of the dislocations due to formation and rapture of Ag filament in the Ge layer as a result of Ag+ ion drift along the dislocation core.
Моделирование условий охлаждения германата висмута Bi-=SUB=-2-=/SUB=-GeO-=SUB=-5-=/SUB=-
Authors: Бермешев Т.В. , Жереб В.П. , Губанов И.Ю. , Набиулин А.Б. , Ченцов В.П. , Рябов В.В. , Ясинский А.С. , Мердак Н.В. , Юшкова О.В. , Бундин М.П. , Беспалов В.М. , Мазурова Е.В. , Ворошилов Д.С. , Подшибякина Е.Ю.
Published: June 2021

The possibility of modeling the cooling processes of the Bi2GeO5 metastable compound using the ProCAST software package is shown. Despite a number of assumptions used in the simulation, the calculation results showed good convergence with the real cooling rates of the melts and can be useful for the development of modeling in the Bi2O3 – GeO2 system in order to obtain metastable materials with a given set of properties and the character of the microstructure.
Плотность и электросопротивление сплавов Al-Ni-Co-Sm(Tb)
Authors: Русанов Б.А. , Сидоров В.Е. , Мороз А.И. , Svec, Sr. P. , Janickovic D.
Published: June 2021

Density and electrical resistivity of Al-Ni-Co-Sm(Tb) glass-forming alloys were studied in wide temperature range include liquid state. It was found the sharp increase of density and decrease of resistivity at liquidus temperature. It was discovered that heating of the melts above a certain temperature leads to the appearance of a hysteresis of properties. Thermal expansion coefficient and temperature coefficient of resistivity were calculated from experimental data.
Анализ фокусировки волн в усеченной линзе Гутмана
Authors: Семерня E.И. , Скобелев С.П.
Published: June 2021

The problem of scattering of a plane electromagnetic wave by a truncated axisymmetric Gutman lens including calculation of the field inside the lens is considered. The problem is solved numerically using the hybrid projection method developed earlier for the general case of wave scattering by inhomogeneous bodies of revolution. New results are presented that demonstrate the accuracy of the method, as well as the field distribution in the Gutman lens, which characterize the features of wave focusing depending on the lens size, focal length, and position of the truncation plane.
Factors That Influence the Use of Electronic Diaries in Health Care: Scoping Review
Authors: Daniëls Naomi E M , Hochstenbach Laura M J , van Zelst Catherine , van Bokhoven Marloes A , Delespaul Philippe A E G , Beurskens Anna J H M
Published: June 2021

Background

A large number of people suffer from psychosocial or physical problems. Adequate strategies to alleviate needs are scarce or lacking. Symptom variation can offer insights into personal profiles of coping and resilience (detailed functional analyses). Hence, diaries are used to report mood and behavior occurring in daily life. To reduce inaccuracies, biases, and noncompliance with paper diaries, a shift to electronic diaries has occurred. Although these diaries are increasingly used in health care, information is lacking about what determines their use.

Objective

The aim of this study was to map the existing empirical knowledge and gaps concerning factors that influence the use of electronic diaries, defined as repeated recording of psychosocial or physical data lasting at least one week using a smartphone or a computer, in health care.

Methods

A scoping review of the literature published between January 2000 and December 2018 was conducted using queries in PubMed and PsycInfo databases. English or Dutch publications based on empirical data about factors that influence the use of electronic diaries for psychosocial or physical purposes in health care were included. Both databases were screened, and findings were summarized using a directed content analysis organized by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).

Results

Out of 3170 articles, 22 studies were selected for qualitative synthesis. Eleven themes were determined in the CFIR categories of intervention, user characteristics, and process. No information was found for the CFIR categories inner (eg, organizational resources, innovation climate) and outer (eg, external policies and incentives, pressure from competitors) settings. Reminders, attractive designs, tailored and clear data visualizations (intervention), smartphone experience, and intrinsic motivation to change behavior (user characteristics) could influence the use of electronic diaries. During the implementation process, attention should be paid to both theoretical and practical training.

Conclusions

Design aspects, user characteristics, and training and instructions determine the use of electronic diaries in health care. It is remarkable that there were no empirical data about factors related to embedding electronic diaries in daily clinical practice. More research is needed to better understand influencing factors for optimal electronic diary use.
Patient Perspectives on Innovative Telemonitoring Enhanced Care Program for Chronic Heart Failure (ITEC-CHF): Usability Study
Authors: Chen Sheau Huey , Edwards Iain , Jayasena Rajiv , Ding Hang , Karunanithi Mohanraj , Dowling Alison , Layland Jamie , Maiorana Andrew
Published: June 2021

Background

Telemonitoring enables care providers to remotely support outpatients in self-managing chronic heart failure (CHF), but little is known about the usability and patients’ willingness to engage with this technology.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate feedback from patients with CHF following participation in the Innovative Telemonitoring Enhanced Care program for CHF (ITEC-CHF) study.

Methods

The telemonitoring intervention consisted of three components: remote weight monitoring, structured telephone support, and
nurse-led collaborative care. Participants were provided with electronic weighing scales (W550; ForaCare), and a computer tablet (Galaxy Tab A; Samsung). They were asked to weigh themselves on the provided scales daily. Telemonitoring was integrated with a personal assistance call service and a nurse care service according to their workflows in usual care. Feedback on the usability of ITEC-CHF was collected via survey from study participants following 6 months of receiving telemonitoring care for their body weight. Survey responses were provided on a 5-point Likert scale and through open-ended questions to determine participants’ perceived benefits and barriers to using ITEC-CHF.

Results

A total of 67 participants (49/67, 73% male), with a mean age of 69.8 (SD 12.4) years completed the survey. The majority of participants agreed or strongly agreed that the ITEC-CHF program was easy to use (61/67, 91%), easy to navigate (51/65, 78%), useful (59/65, 91%), and made them feel more confident in managing their weight (57/67, 85%). Themes related to participants’ perceptions of telemonitoring included increased support for early intervention of clinical deterioration, improved compliance to daily weighing, a sense of reassurance, and improved self-care and accountability, among others.

Conclusions

ITEC-CHF was rated highly on usability and was well accepted by users as part of their routine self-management activities. Participants were willing to use telemonitoring because they perceived a broad spectrum of benefits for CHF management.

Trial Registration

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry ID ACTRN 12614000916640; https://www.anzctr.org.au/Trial/Registration/TrialReview.aspx?id=366691.
Gaps in Public Awareness About BRCA and Genetic Testing in Prostate Cancer: Social Media Landscape Analysis
Authors: Loeb Stacy , Massey Philip , Leader Amy E , Thakker Sameer , Falge Emily , Taneja Sabina , Byrne Nataliya , Rose Meredith , Joy Matthew , Walter Dawn , Katz Matthew S , Wong Risa L , Selvan Preethi , Keith Scott W , Giri Veda N
Published: June 2021

Background

Genetic testing, particularly for BRCA1/2, is increasingly important in prostate cancer (PCa) care, with impact on PCa management and hereditary cancer risk. However, the extent of public awareness and online discourse on social media is unknown, and presents opportunities to identify gaps and enhance population awareness and uptake of advances in PCa precision medicine.

Objective

The objective of this study was to characterize activity and engagement across multiple social media platforms (Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube) regarding BRCA and genetic testing for PCa compared with breast cancer, which has a long history of public awareness, advocacy, and prominent social media presence.

Methods

The Symplur Signals online analytics platform was used to obtain metrics for tweets about (1) #BRCA and #breastcancer, (2) #BRCA and #prostatecancer, (3) #genetictesting and #breastcancer, and (4) #genetictesting and #prostatecancer from 2016 to 2020. We examined the total number of tweets, users, and reach for each hashtag, and performed content analysis for a subset of tweets. Facebook and YouTube were queried using analogous search terms, and engagement metrics were calculated.

Results

During a 5-year period, there were 10,005 tweets for #BRCA and #breastcancer, versus 1008 tweets about #BRCA and #prostatecancer. There were also more tweets about #genetictesting and #breastcancer (n=1748), compared with #genetic testing and #prostatecancer (n=328). Tweets about genetic testing (12,921,954) and BRCA (75,724,795) in breast cancer also had substantially greater reach than those about PCa (1,463,777 and 4,849,905, respectively). Facebook groups and pages regarding PCa and BRCA/genetic testing had fewer average members, new members, and new posts, as well as fewer likes and followers, compared with breast cancer. Facebook videos had more engagement than YouTube videos across both PCa and breast cancer content.

Conclusions

There is substantially less social media engagement about BRCA and genetic testing in PCa compared with breast cancer. This landscape analysis provides insights into strategies for leveraging social media platforms to increase public awareness about PCa germline testing, including use of Facebook to share video content and Twitter for discussions with health professionals.
Clinic Time Required for Remote and In-Person Management of Patients With Cardiac Devices: Time and Motion Workflow Evaluation
Authors: Seiler Amber , Biundo Eliana , Di Bacco Marco , Rosemas Sarah , Nicolle Emmanuelle , Lanctin David , Hennion Juliette , de Melis Mirko , Van Heel Laura
Published: June 2021

Background

The number of patients with cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) is increasing, creating a substantial workload for device clinics.

Objective

This study aims to characterize the workflow and quantify clinic staff time requirements for managing patients with CIEDs.

Methods

A time and motion workflow evaluation was performed in 11 US and European CIEDs clinics. Workflow tasks were repeatedly timed during 1 business week of observation at each clinic; these observations included all device models and manufacturers. The mean cumulative staff time required to review a remote device transmission and an in-person clinic visit were calculated, including all necessary clinical and administrative tasks. The annual staff time to manage a patient with a CIED was modeled using CIED transmission volumes, clinical guidelines, and the published literature.

Results

A total of 276 in-person clinic visits and 2173 remote monitoring activities were observed. Mean staff time required per remote transmission ranged from 9.4 to 13.5 minutes for therapeutic devices (pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, and cardiac resynchronization therapy) and from 11.3 to 12.9 minutes for diagnostic devices such as insertable cardiac monitors (ICMs). Mean staff time per in-person visit ranged from 37.8 to 51.0 and from 39.9 to 45.8 minutes for therapeutic devices and ICMs, respectively. Including all remote and in-person follow-ups, the estimated annual time to manage a patient with a CIED ranged from 1.6 to 2.4 hours for therapeutic devices and from 7.7 to 9.3 hours for ICMs.

Conclusions

The CIED patient management workflow is complex and requires significant staff time. Understanding process steps and time requirements informs the implementation of efficiency improvements, including remote solutions. Future research should examine heterogeneity in patient management processes to identify the most efficient workflow.
Use of Telemedicine in Depression Care by Physicians: Scoping Review
Authors: Echelard Jean-François
Published: June 2021

Background

Depression is a common disorder, and it creates burdens on people’s mental and physical health as well as societal costs. Although traditional in-person consultations are the usual mode of caring for patients with depression, telemedicine may be well suited to psychiatric assessment and management. Telepsychiatry can be defined as the use of information and communication technologies such as videoconferencing and telephone calls for the care of psychopathologies.

Objective

This review aims to evaluate the extent and nature of the existing literature on the use of telemedicine for the care of depression by physicians. This review also aims to examine the effects and perceptions regarding this virtual care and determine how it compares to traditional in-person care.

Methods

The Arksey and O’Malley framework and the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines were followed. Relevant articles were identified through a search of three databases (MEDLINE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and PsycArticles) on October 11, 2020. The search terms were “(virtual OR telemedicine OR teleconsultation* OR telehealth OR phone* OR webcam* OR telepsychiatry) AND (depress*)”. Eligibility criteria were applied to select studies about the use of telemedicine for the care of patients with depression specifically by physicians. An Excel file (Microsoft Corporation) was used to chart data from all included articles.

Results

The search resulted in the identification of 28 articles, and all 13 nonreview studies were analyzed in detail. Most nonreview studies were conducted in the United States during the last decade. Most telemedicine programs were led by psychiatrists, and the average study population size was 135. In all applicable studies, telepsychiatry tended to perform at least as well as in-person care regarding improvement in depression severity, patient satisfaction, quality of life, functioning, cost-effectiveness, and most other perceptions and variables. Cultural sensitivity and collaborative care were part of the design of some telemedicine programs.

Conclusions

Additional randomized, high-quality studies are recommended to evaluate various outcomes of the use of telemedicine for depression care, including depression variables, perceptions, health care outcomes and other outcomes. Studies should be conducted in various clinical contexts, including primary care. Telepsychiatry is a promising modality of care for patients suffering from depression.