bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tratamiento de las aguas del río Tumbes mediante un sistema fotocatalítico
Authors:   , Solorzano Molina Andrea Victoria
Published: January 2025

El tratamiento de las aguas del río Tumbes permitió evaluar el efecto del tiempo y la cantidad de catalizador (TiO2) en un sistema fotocatalítico utilizando muestras con alta concentración de metales pesados y coliformes termotolerantes (CTT), para obtener agua para consumo humano y/o riego de cultivos. Las concentraciones del catalizador de 200 y 500 mg/L en diferentes tiempos de tratamiento 30, 60 y 90 min, permitieron obtener un alto rendimiento en el porcentaje de reducción de metales y metaloides: Al (99.86%), As (59.54%), Cd (75%), Cu (85.8%), Fe (99.43%), Mn (91.98%), Hg (83.02%), Pb (99.17%), Na (18.86%), Zn (29.89%) y CTT-totales (99.93%). De acuerdo a las pruebas estadísticas, el tiempo de tratamiento es un factor significativo para la reducción de los contaminantes evaluados, siendo distinto para cada metal y metalode: 30 minutos para As y Na; 60 minutos para Al, Fe, Pb, Cu y Zn; y 90 minutos para Cd y Mn. Como producto final se ha obtenido agua para riego de cultivos con calidad enarcada dentro de los Estándares de Calidad Ambiental.
Conocimiento de los odontólogos peruanos sobre la prescripción de antiinflamatorios no esteroideos y antibióticos en niños
Authors:   , Arias Meneses Francisco Jean Paul
Published: January 2025

Introducción: La atención farmacológica en pacientes pediátricos debe ser adecuada a su etapa de crecimiento y desarrollo, por lo que el odontólogo debe tener los conocimientos adecuados para garantizar una prescripción segura. Objetivo: Determinar el conocimiento de los odontólogos generales de Lima respecto a la prescripción de antiinflamatorios no esteroideos (AINEs) y antibióticos (ATBs) en niños. Materiales y métodos: Estudio descriptivo transversal en el que participaron 300 odontólogos generales (57,3% varones; 51,7% ≥ 30 años). Un cuestionario de 25 preguntas sobre conocimientos de AINEs y ATBs (22 ítems, valor de Kayser-Meyer-Olkin ≥ 0,795; Bartlett < 0,001, KR-20 ≥ 0,893) y datos demográficos (edad, sexo, sector laboral) se aplicó en 2023. Las pruebas de U de Mann-Whitney y Chi cuadrado se utilizaron considerando P < 0,05. Resultados: La mayoría de los participantes tenían un bajo nivel de conocimiento sobre la prescripción de AINEs (59%) y ATBs (60,7%) con puntuaciones de conocimiento sobre el total [(10 (IQR = 6)], AINEs [5, IQR = 10] y ATBs [4 (IQR = 7] siendo similares para sexo, edad y sector laboral (P ≥ 0,199). La mayoría de los participantes conocían la indicación terapéutica de los AINEs para el alivio del dolor e inflamación, pero desconocían las dosis adecuadas de diclofenaco sódico y concentraciones de naproxeno (57,7% a 58,3%) y la concentración de amoxicilina con o sin ácido clavulánico, dosis de azitromicina, volumen de administración o duración de los ATBs (56% a 58,7%) (P ≤ 0,043). El grupo de <30 años presentó un mayor nivel de conocimiento de los AINEs en comparación a los ATBs (P = 0,030). Conclusión: Los odontólogos generales tuvieron conocimientos insuficientes en la prescripción de AINE y ATB pediátricos.
La aplicación de la caducidad en los procesos sancionadores del Tribunal de Contrataciones con el Estado
Authors:   , Vela Hugo Miguel Angel
Published: January 2025

El presente artículo, denominado “La aplicación de la caducidad en los procedimientos sancionadores del Tribunal de Contrataciones del Estado”, aborda el uso preciso de la temporalidad y especialidad para garantizar los derechos de seguridad jurídica y predictibilidad de los ciudadanos respecto al resolver del Tribunal de Contrataciones con el Estado. Es una investigación descriptiva y cualitativa se centra en la recopilación de varias fuentes de información sobre la materia de investigación.
Análisis de la tensión compresiva en coronas de disilicato de litio en premolares inferiores: elemento finito
Authors:   , Rojas Arcos Fernando Alfredo , Tolentino Trigoso Axel Marcelo
Published: January 2025

Objetivo: Analizar la tensión compresiva en coronas de disilicato de litio mediante un análisis de elementos finitos. Método: En este estudio in silico se diseñaron tres modelos para evaluar la tensión compresiva ante fuerzas de 516 N horizontales (modelo 1), vertical (modelo 2) y oblicuas (modelo 3) en coronas de disilicato de litio en primer premolar inferior (grosor 0,8 mm) mediante el software SolidWorks 2020. El mínimo y máximo estrés originado se evaluó con la escala de valores y colores de Von Mises en Megapascales (MPa). Resultados: La tensión compresiva máxima en la corona se observó en el modelo 1 (horizontal) siendo esta de 483 Mpa, en el modelo 2 (fuerza vertical) fue de 543 Mpa y en el modelo 3 fue de 1463,6 Mpa. Asimismo, la mínima tensión se observó en el modelo 2 siendo esta de 0,0197 Mpa. Conclusión: Las fuerzas oblicuas causaron más tensión compresiva que las horizontales y verticales. Es importante identificar las cargas masticatorias de cada paciente y tensiones compresivas que se generan en la corona.
Substrate Size Impact on the Radiation Pattern of a Sub-THz Printed Antenna, and its Reduction Using Metasurface Elements
Authors: Tokarsky Peter , Yashchyshyn Yevhen
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the effect of substrate transverse dimensions and thickness on the radiating properties of a printed planar antenna of the sub-THz. Most substrates are electrically thick at these frequencies, contributing to the excitation of intense surface waves, which can significantly degrade the antenna characteristics. This manifests in a decrease in the radiation efficiency of the printed antenna and radiation pattern distortion. The latter effect is associated with the diffraction of surface waves at the substrate edges, therefore enormously depending on its size. So, to minimize the destructive impact of surface waves on the antenna radiation pattern, it was essential to study the dependence of its directional properties on the transverse dimensions and thickness of the substrate. The studies used a full-wave simulation of the printed antenna employing the FEKO software. The analysis of the results allowed us to establish the periodic character of the change in the antenna directivity and radiation efficiency with increased substrate size and to propose a constructive way to reduce the edge effect. It is shown that adding a metasurface made it possible to significantly reduce the edge effect due to the surface wave suppression and increase the radiation efficiency to almost 100%.
C-reactive protein dissociation contributes to choroidal neovascularization in vivo: implications for age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Hernandez Maria , Romero-Vazquez Sara , Recalde Sergio , Bezunartea Jaione , Moreno-Orduña Maite , Belza-Zuazu Idoia , Garcia-Layana Alfredo , Adan Alfredo , Fernandez-Robredo Patricia , Molins Blanca
Published: January 2025

Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) and inflammation processes play an important role in retinal disease development and C-reactive protein (CRP) has been shown to contribute to development diseases like Age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Our aim was to evaluate whether monomeric and pentameric CRP (pCRP, mCRP) isoforms contribute to CNV in vivo and to characterize the mechanism of CRP dissociation in-vivo and in vitro. Both CRP isoforms were intravitreally (IVT) or intravenously (IV) injected in mice, CNV was laser-induced, retinography and fluorescein angiography were performed to evaluate edema. Lectin, mCRP, F4/80 and C5b9 localization were assessed by immunofluorescence and visualized under a confocal microscope. Intensity of fluorescence of mCRP (IF mCRP) was also quantified. To confirm pCRP dissociation in ARPE-19 cells and mice, pCRP was coupled to a fluorochrome and IVT injected. A statistical increase in CNV areas was observed in pCRP IVT injected males (p<0.05) while a statistical decrease was shown in females (p<0.05). After IV injection, pCRP males showed an increase in CNV areas only vs. mCRP injected mice (p<0.05) and in females the injection of pCRP injected mice showed higher CNV areas vs. vehicle (p<0.05) and vs. mCRP injected mice (p<0.05). Retinal edema after IVT CRP injection was observed mainly in mCRP injected mice. In females there was an IF mCRP statistical decrease in pCRP IVT injected mice vs. vehicle and a statistical increase in pCRP IV injected mice vs. vehicle (p<0.05). Mice injected with IVT isoforms showed F4/80 positive cells and C5b-9 deposition around the CNV areas. mCRP labeling was observed in the intercellular space of the endothelial cells in the angiogenic area and detected in pCRP IVT injected animals, demonstrating the dissociation of pCRP into mCRP both in vitro and in vivo in proinflammatory microenvironments. In conclusion, CRP administration increased the area of CNV and the edema observed in the subretinal space, suggesting that CRP is activated in the CNV inflammatory environment. In addition, we demonstrated that pCRP dissociates in vivo into mCRP in damaged areas close to CNV, hypothesizing that the CNV process is exacerbated by mCRP.
Healthcare Providers' adherence on Neonatal infection prevention and control measures and its associated factors in Tanzania: An Analytical Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Komba Nicodem , Joho Angelina , Seif Saada Ali
Published: January 2025

Adherence to prevention and control of neonatal infection is crucial in reduction and prevention of preventable neonatal deaths due to infection. However, newborn dying due to healthcare acquired infection is still high to 20% in Tanzania. This study investigated the adherence to IPC standards guidelines and associated factors among healthcare workers working within primary and secondary healthcare facilities. The results showed that, the HCWs adherence to standard guideline was 58%. Factors associated with the adherence to IPC standard guideline were, having adequate knowledgeable on IPC standard guideline, being under midwifery or nursing professional and aged between 36 to 50 years old.
Hierarchical forecasting of causes of death with trend breaks in mortality modeling: Kenyan case
Authors: Bett Nicholas , Kasozi Juma , Ruturwa Daniel
Published: January 2025

Trends offer direction and momentum. However, trends in mortality are affected by trend breaks, which are a consequence of mortality shocks. Additionally, insufficient historical data challenge the credibility of the forecasted trends, which are useful for actuaries in pricing, reserving, and valuing life insurance products. To address these challenges, the study aims to determine and incorporate trend breaks among individual causes of death and coherently forecast them by applying the bottom-up hierarchical forecasting approach for life insurance models. The models used are categorized as base (linear model), auto-statistical (Arima, Exponential-Smoothing, and Prophet), and auto-machine learning. The data from the World Health Organization consisted of annualized mortality quantities by cause, gender, age, and period for Kenya. Results based on the mean absolute percentage error criteria across the causes of death showed that all the models apart from the base model showed significant improvement after accounting for the trend breaks with the best being the auto machine learning approach leading with seven causes of death. Updating forecasts based on the computed trend breakpoints that varied between 2007 to 2011 generally improved forecast accuracy. These results suggest that forecasting errors may be reduced after accounting for trend breaks and model specifications. Furthermore, this implies that insufficient data do not necessarily produce deficient forecasts. The study’s contribution involved applying approaches that enhance the accuracy of forecasting models to prevent adverse effects of mortality shocks in actuarial modeling.
Estimation of stresses on 155mm artillery projectiles during launch phase using numerical simulations
Authors: Catovic Alan , Razic Faruk , Kljuno Elvedin
Published: January 2025

The paper provides an overview of research (analytical, numerical, and experimental methods) related to the stress state of artillery projectiles during movement through the barrel of the weapon. The characteristics of the 155mm HERA M549 and 155mm HE M795 projectiles, used in numerical simulations, are described. As a main goal of the research, numerical simulations were performed with the 155mm projectiles to determine the maximum equivalent stresses that occur during the launch of this ammunition. The obtained values were compared with the yield limit of the materials of the projectile components, in order to assess whether the plastic deformation would occur during the launch phase.
Developing a new model to control risk and improve quality in the construction industry by integrating risk management and quality function deployment
Authors: Abdulrahman Al Tekreeti Ahmed Muneer
Published: January 2025

The construction industry is considered an indicator of a country's development through buildings, residential complexes, investment projects, roads, bridges, and infrastructure projects. Dynamic and complex features characterise this industry, which is directly and significantly affected by external and internal factors, in addition to the influences of its stakeholders. These characteristics and factors are considered one of the main reasons for generating risks in this industry, which can affect the quality and reputation of the construction project if its Risk Management systems are not followed systematically and correctly. Poor quality of construction projects has become a visible and widespread feature worldwide, including in Malaysia. Risk management is still applied on a low level in many projects within the construction industry. Quality Function Deployment is considered an essential modern system that focuses on quality, customer needs, and satisfaction, which can serve the construction industry if linked with risk management tools. The study's primary purpose is to find the relationship between RM and the QFD and develop a modern model for risk control in the construction industry through their integration. The conceptual framework of the proposed model is developed and applied to stakeholders in the construction industry in Malaysia. The results confirmed a solid, complementary, and interconnected relationship between RM and QFD, which can develop a new model for controlling risks and thus improve the construction project's quality. The results of the study recommended adopting this model. Recommendations were made to researchers to develop the model in the future to include broader areas in the construction industry.
Motives for using critical thinking skills among gifted and non-gifted adolescent students
Authors: Alzoubi Ahmad Mohammad , Alsalhi Najeh Rajeh , Abdelrahman Rasha Mohamed , Alakashee Bushra Ahmed , Al Gharaibeh Fakir , Alqawasmi Abdellateef
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to identify the motives for using critical thinking skills among gifted and non-gifted students. A measure of motivation for using critical thinking skills prepared by Valenzuela & et al., 2011 was used, which includes two dimensions: motivation for use based on expectation and value. The results showed that the level of motives for using critical thinking skills among gifted students was high, while the level was medium among non-gifted students. The results also indicated that there were statistically significant differences in the dimension of expectation and the total degree of the motives of use due to gender in favor of male students. The study also found statistically significant differences in the dimensions (expectation, value) and the total score of the motives of use due to the classification of students (gifted or non-gifted) in favor of gifted students. The study recommended teachers and curriculum developers to find strategies and activities that would raise the level of motivation for critical thinking among non-gifted and female students.
A study on the influence of government, financial and incubation support on the success of startups in IT Cities of India
Authors: Mishra Shubham , Bhargava Jyoti , Singh Shalini , Singh Niharika , Kumari Roopam , Amin Ruhul
Published: January 2025

This paper revolves around the concept of start-ups in IT Cities of India. Start-ups are mostly created based on creative and innovative ideas and grow to achieve success. Start-up companies are newly established companies which generally strive for existence due to some challenges. The basic purpose of this paper is to put some light on the factors influencing the success of startups in IT Cities of India. factors include Government support, Incubation support and financial support which is again sub divided into various sub factors having an influence on the success of startups in IT Cities of India. An attempt is made to review the literature and based on which primary data were collected from various Start-up Unit, start- up owner, CEO through questionnaire and the total of 309 respondents have been analyzed. Based on data collected all the three factors have been analyzed and proposed some suggestions and strategies.
Automated detection of gait events using inertial sensor signals and a discrete wavelet transform approach
Authors: Navarro Humberto J.
Published: January 2025

Detection of gait cycle events is a crucial step toward an effective evaluation and rehabilitation of pathologies or injuries in human locomotion. Recently, methods based on the Discrete Wavelet Transform (DWT) have been useful for this detection due to their robustness and the wide variety of options for analyzing and decomposing signals in time/frequency domains, as well as their ability to extract relevant features embedded in the signals. In this study, a detection method of main gait cycle events, using the Wavelet Symlets and Daubechies families, was developed. These events are the heel-strike (HS) and the toe–off (TO). Inertial signals were acquired by three different devices: a G–WALK (reference equipment), an Apple Watch (AW), and a noncommercial device based on Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs). The dataset was obtained from six–minute walking tests performed by 22 healthy subjects. First, the dataset was processed, and then the signals were synchronized regarding the reference system. Subsequently, the signals were decomposed into 6 levels using sym4 and db5 Wavelets to obtain multiple perspectives of the signals. Then, using automatic threshold techniques and symmetric windows, it was possible to detect HS and TO events. Finally, the IMUs–based system obtained a 94.398 % of recall, 100 % of precision, and 97.117 % of F_1–score, with absolute values delays in the detection between 10–20 ms. In contrast, the AW system performance was 90.168 %, 100 %, and 94.828 % for recall, precision, and F_1–score, respectively, with absolute values delays in the detection of 10–28 ms.
Distributed and Massed Practices in Teaching Concepts to Children with Autism
Authors: Öz Alkoyak Hüsne , Vuran Sezgin
Published: January 2025

Introduction: This study aimed to compare the effectiveness, efficiency, maintenance, generalization, and social validity of distributed and massed practices in concept teaching to children with autism spectrum disorder.
Method: The participants were four children with autism spectrum disorder aged between 4.5 and 5.5 years. The present study used an adapted alternating treatments design.
Findings: The results showed that (a) all participants reached the mastery criterion more quickly in the distributed practice condition, (b) two participants maintained concepts 8, 9, and 10 weeks after the intervention in the distributed practice condition, (c) none of the participants reached the generalization criterion, and (d) social validity data showed that teachers had positive opinions about the distributed practice.
Discussion: Results of this study were parallel to previous studies and showed that massed practice considerably reduces the effectiveness of teaching.
A Review on the Potential Effects of Curcumin in the Treatment of Neuroblastoma and its Underlying Mechanisms
Authors: Shaban Sayeh , Chahkandi Tayebeh , Jafari-Nozad Amir Masoud , Farkhondeh Tahereh , Samarghandian Saeed
Published: January 2025

Neuroblastoma (NB) is a rare embryonal neuroendocrine tumor that primarily
affects children aged 5 years old or younger. In advanced stages, NB requires a multifaceted
treatment approach, including a combination of surgery, chemo, and radiation
therapy. However, high-risk NB is still associated with poor prognosis, long-term side effects,
and a high chance of relapse. To counter the drawbacks of conventional treatments,
the antitumor properties of natural substances have been extensively studied in recent
years. Curcumin (CUR) is a polyphenol of the plants of the Curcuma longa species
and is well-known for its potent biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory,
and anticancer properties. CUR may function as a potential therapeutic compound
in NB cells by decreasing cell viability, proliferation, and migration, while inducing
oxidative stress and apoptosis in cancer cells. Different molecular pathways have been
suggested for this anti-cancer activity of CUR, such as caspase-3 activation, p53 and
Bcl-2 signaling pathways, inhibition of AKT and FOXO3 nuclear translocation, and regulation
of the chaperoning system proteins. Despite its favorable effects, CUR faces several
challenges in treating cancer, such as low bioavailability and bioactivity. Consequently,
recent studies have focused on the development of CUR nanoformulations and
new drug delivery systems, aiming to overcome these barriers. This review provides an
updated summary of the recent literature regarding CUR’s protective role in NB and the
potential underlying mechanisms. In conclusion, CUR and its nanoformulations show
great potential for NB management, and we suggest additional well-designed basic and
preclinical studies to explore CUR's efficiency in detail, especially its therapeutic effectiveness
in humans.
Artificial Intelligence in Transcranial Doppler Ultrasonography
Authors: Siniscalchi Antonio , Inghingolo Vincenzo , Lochner Piergiorgio , Malferrari Giovanni
Published: January 2025

Transcranial Doppler is an instrumental ultrasound method capable of providing data on various brain pathologies, in particular, the study of
cerebral hemodynamics in stroke, quickly, economically, and with repeatability of the data themselves. However, literature reviews from clinical
studies and clinical trials reported that it is an operator-dependent method, and the data can be influenced by external factors, such as noise, which
may require greater standardization of the parameters. Artificial intelligence can be utilized on transcranial Doppler to increase the accuracy and
precision of the data collected while decreasing operator dependencies. In a time-dependent pathology, such as stroke, characterized by
hemodynamic evolution, the use of artificial intelligence in transcranial Doppler ultrasound could represent beneficial support for better diagnosis
and treatment in time-dependent pathologies, such as stroke.
A Focused Review on Emerging SARS-Cov-2 Variants
Authors: Renjitha Anagha , Jayaram Malavika , Jabbar Ayisha A. , Murukan Aparna B. , Haridasan Haripriya , Prijikumar Akshara , Baiju Sneha , Nixon Adrial Ann , Najeeb Nihal , Krishnan Ponnambil Anantha , Rodriguez Sunu , Nair Bipin G. , Aloor Arya , Suravajhala Renuka , Suravajhala Prashanth
Published: January 2025

Over the past 33 months, 10 SARS-CoV-2 mutant variants have evolved. Among them, very few were infectious, while the rest were not that rampantly infectious. As COVID-19 has been the century’s most destructive pandemic, and as the variants of concern and significance are heralding nature, there is an inherent need to bring collaborative convergence among scientists to combat future pandemics such as COVID-19. A question remains whether these emerging variants could allow us to define the advent of pathogenesis and whether or not we are prepared. In this review, we give a gist of variants that could be associated with the recombination events concerned with SAR-CoV-2 that have an impact on the immune response in the human body.
Omicron Plus India: Trends Observed in S-gene Target Failure Detection Rate
Authors: Ganesan Praveenkumar , Nikam Chaitali , Sengupta Caesar , Ahmad Riyaj , Patil Darshak , Sharma Prince , Kallathi Kumar K.
Published: January 2025

Background:

COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by SARS-COV-2. As the world eagerly awaits the transition of the COVID-19 pandemic to an endemic, the ever-evolving virus has a new variant of concern, as announced by WHO on November 26th, 2021. The Omicron variant, B.1.1.529, was first reported to WHO on November 24th, 2021. The variant has a large number of mutations in the S-gene and has caused a detrimental change in COVID-19 epidemiology. The efficient management of COVID-19 depends on early diagnosis and treatment. This new chain of new variants of concern has always posed a challenge to the accurate diagnosis of COVID-19.

Methods:

In this study, we studied the S-gene target failure of positive cases of COVID-19 from December 2nd, 2021, to January 1st, 2022. Moreover, we checked this trend per month for two months after that by accumulating positives. All positive samples detected for COVID-19 by ICMR approved kit (target selections N and ORF1ab) were re-run using another ICMR-approved kit with three targets (S, N, and ORF1ab). The absence of S-gene in the target, i.e., S-gene target failure (SGTF), can be considered an indication of an Omicron variant as per the advisory policy. In continuation with this, considering the next wave in China, we tested SGTF for the next two months, and as expected, a reduction in SGTF percentage was observed.

Results:

A total of 53,276 samples were received in December 2021, of which 4848 samples showed a positive result for SARS-CoV-2. Out of this, 2119 (43.70%) samples showed SGTF. To analyze this trend, we tested 156 samples from February, 2022 and 118 samples from March, 2022, which resulted in only 8 (5.1%) and 3(2.5%) samples showing SGTF.

Conclusion:

The study sheds light on the doubling rate of infection of COVID-19 in India and SGTF, indicating the spread of the Omicron variant. The infection can be controlled by accurately diagnosing variants of concern (VOC), but all positive samples cannot be screened for sequencing. In this case, kits with multiple targets that show the SGTF can be used as a proxy screening test, and for further confirmation, whole genome sequencing can be done.
Effects of Internal Control Mechanisms on Operational Efficiency of State-Owned Enterprises: Evidence from Malawi
Authors:   Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences, Kanyongo Chisomo , Linpunga Andrew Munthopa ,   Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences
Published: January 2025

Internal controls are crucial in ensuring the efficient utilization of resources to accomplish organizational objectives. When implemented effectively, they enhance operational efficiency. In the case of public institutions, operational efficiency is critical given that these entities deliver services paid by taxpayers and whose interest revolves around resource optimization. The study investigates the effect of internal control mechanisms on the operational efficiency of State-owned Enterprises (SOEs) in Malawi. A cross-sectional survey design was employed. Data was collected through a questionnaire and was analyzed using the least squares multiple regression model. The results showed that control environment and information and communication have significant positive effects on operational efficiency. On the other hand, although control activities and monitoring and evaluation positively influenced operational efficiency, their relationships were not statistically significant. Similarly, although risk assessment negatively influences operational efficiency, the relationship was not statistically significant. The results demonstrate the importance of a supportive environment and effective information sharing in enhancing operational efficiency in SOEs.
On methods of setting the coordinates of the mouse pointer in the case of alternative options for constructing human-computer interaction
Authors: Peresunko P. V.
Published: January 2025

Objective. The aim of the study is to compare and generalize different methods of contactless setting of computer mouse pointer coordinates. Method. To create a contactless human-machine interface, computer vision technologies are used to select a control point on a video camera frame, with the help of which the computer cursor is moved on the user's monitor. General logical methods of scientific research, namely, generalization, are used. An analysis of the considered cursor coordinate control systems is carried out with the allocation of common parts for further generalization and description of formulas for setting the coordinates of the computer mouse cursor. Scientific works with absolute positioning of the computer cursor and works with control of the cursor position shift relative to its coordinates on the previous frame were taken for analysis. Result. As a result of the analysis, strengths and weaknesses of each of the approaches under consideration were indicated. Absolute positioning requires less time to set the cursor to the desired position. It is determined that cursor shift control is not so demanding on the accuracy of calculating the coordinates of the control point. Formulas are given that generalize the methods of moving the computer cursor. Conclusion. The proposed approach to calculating new coordinates of the mouse pointer allows implementing both presented approaches to positioning the computer cursor in the software system, since each of them has advantages depending on the specific situation.
On assessing the sustainability of functioning of microparametric cyber risk insurance facilities
Authors: Voevodin V. A.
Published: January 2025

Objective. The article is devoted to the problem of assessing the durability of critical information infrastructure objects in favor of microparametric risk insurance. The feasibility of introducing parametric insurance as a cost-effective way to protect information against threats and the existence of sustainability problems is being supported. Method. The application of reliability theory methods in combination with random function theory allowed to consider the dynamics of stability of operation of the protection object during the period of the action of threats. Result. It was possible to estimate the minimum value of the rating object’s performance and the relevant time of occurrence, which in combination allowed for an assessment of the risk associated with the event. The novelty of the proposed approach is that for cyber risk assessment, a function of the object of assessment was performed, which was formed on the basis of the functions of individual elements of the evaluation object, taking into account its structure and available resources for maintaining functionality. The information security (IS) assessment task for different structures and the Parametric Micro-Insurance Solution Methodologies are described, which focus on the importance of each of their elements as part of the insurance object. Conclusion. he article’s content can be used to set the task of developing methods, models and means for providing IS risk insurance as well as supporting solutions for ensuring sustainability.
Software module for automatic correction of drawings obtained as a result of graphic data exchange between CAD systems, using the furniture production example
Authors: Kalinichenko A. V. , Alikov A. Yu. , Yurosheva T. A.
Published: January 2025

Objective. When designing complex objects, as well as when it is necessary to perform export-import operations between various computer-aided design systems, the task of automatic correction of drawings becomes quite relevant. Development of a software module for automatic correction of drawings in the AutoCAD system, the need for which is due to reasons such as: the use of different file formats for storing drawings by different CAD systems, the complexity of the drawings. Method. As part of the study, methods of geometric modeling, analytical geometry and graphical presentation of results were used. Result. Algorithms for automatic correction of parameters of position and outline of drawing fragments in the AutoCAD system have been developed, with complexity of O(n) and O(n2 ). Conclusion. Analysis of the functionality of the developed module allows us to assert that its use will reduce the time spent when correcting drawings obtained as a result of import from other CAD systems in the AutoCAD system, and improve the quality of design documentation.
System analysis and information processing to solve the problem of detecting breakdowns of computer information storage
Authors: Kodatsky N. M. , Revyakina E. A. , Gazizov A. R.
Published: January 2025

Objective. One of the important aspects of maintaining the efficient operation of information systems is the condition of computer equipment. The purpose of the study is to describe a method for effective system analysis of the state of a computer's information storage device. Method. The study is based on the use of machine learning algorithms to analyze and interpret data obtained from SMART tests. Includes a comprehensive analysis and experimental study. It involves conducting experiments with a data set and the Google Colab cloud environment, creating and analyzing a machine learning model, and evaluating the effectiveness and quality of training. Result. A tool for assessing the state of computer equipment based on the Random Forest algorithm has been developed using historical data from SMART tests. Conclusion. The results not only allow the implementation of a working data analysis tool in the field of computer equipment maintenance, but also contain a practical example of increasing the reliability and efficiency of information systems. The results are useful for IT specialists and for organizations optimizing equipment maintenance processes and increasing competitiveness.
Extern toezicht op hetopenbaar ministerie
Authors: Hoving Rolf
Published: January 2025

Naar aanleiding van een oproep van de Tweede Kamer om het toezicht op het OM aan te scherpen, liet minister Grapperhaus in 2020 weten dat het toezicht zou worden verruimd en geïntensiveerd. Daartoe wordt de taak van de procureur-generaal bij de Hoge Raad (PGHR) uitgebreid.

Het is een vorm van extern toezicht, dat wil zeggen onafhankelijk toezicht gehouden door personen of organisaties buiten het strafrechtelijke systeem, zoals PGHR, de Nationale ombudsman of de Autoriteit Persoonsgegevens. Toezicht op het OM heeft als doel bij te dragen dat het OM minder fouten maakt, dat het de wetten en regels beter uitvoert en daarmee de rechtsorde strafrechtelijk beter handhaaft.

Binnen de leerstoel ‘Toezicht op strafvorderlijk overheidsoptreden’ doet Rolf Hoving onderzoek naar hoe toezicht er aan kan bijdragen dat de organisaties die zich bezig houden met de opsporing en vervolging van strafbare feiten, zoals de politie en het OM, zo goed mogelijk hun werk doen. Daarbij is het interessant dat het OM een magistratelijke organisatie is die ook zelf een taak heeft bij de handhaving van de (straf)wet. Mede hierdoor heeft het toezicht op het OM een ander karakter dan het toezicht op bijvoorbeeld banken, ziekenhuizen of scholen.

Uit onderzoeken van externe toezichthouders blijkt het OM soms fouten maakt bij de uitvoering van zijn taken. De toezichthouders doen aanbevelingen om die fouten te voorkomen. Vaak worden deze aanbevelingen door het OM opgevolgd. Maar niet altijd leidt het toezicht tot gedragsverandering. In de oratie gaat Hoving in op enkele verklaringen daarvoor.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in the Research and Application Status of ICU-Acquired Weakness (Preprint)
Authors: Wang Mingyu , Huang Bo , Chen Juan , Rui Zhifeng , Li Junya , Fang Shizheng , Fan Linqing , Feng Jian , Li Fuxiang
Published: January 2025

UNSTRUCTURED

Intensive care unit acquired myasthenia (ICU-AW) is a common complication of critically ill patients treated in the intensive care unit (ICU), which significantly affects patients' recovery and quality of life. In recent years, with the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), related interdisciplinary applications are gradually increasing and improving, especially in the field of ICU-AW, which is a hot direction for future development. This paper reviews the research progress of AI and ML in ICU-AW, discusses the application status of these technologies, discusses the future development direction, and analyzes the advantages and challenges of these technologies.
The effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions on improving leisure participation following stroke: Protocol for a systematic review (Preprint)
Authors: Alves-Stein Serena , Lannin Natasha A. , Wales Kylie , Kramer Sharon , Jolliffe Laura
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Leisure participation is an important rehabilitation goal for survivors of stroke. Several factors are likely to influence return to leisure participation, including stroke-related impairments as well as rehabilitation interventions provided and time since stroke. Previous systematic reviews and current clinical practice guidelines provide inconsistent recommendations regarding rehabilitation interventions to achieve increased participation in leisure.

OBJECTIVE

We propose a systematic review protocol to synthesize data on the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions to increase leisure participation in adult stroke survivors, taking into account time post-stroke and intervention context.

METHODS

Searches will be conducted in MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMBASE, and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials. We will include randomized controlled trials and non-randomized controlled trials which include adult stroke survivors and are testing the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions for leisure. Eligible interventions will be those which aim to improve leisure participation, or where leisure participation is an outcome of interest. Two reviewers will independently screen full-text articles, and one reviewer will extract data, with a second reviewer providing confirmation. The PEDro Scale will be used to assess methodological quality of studies. A random effects meta-analysis will be performed, and a Cochran Q test will assess heterogeneity among studies. Outcome measures of leisure participation may include measures of leisure participation amount, satisfaction/confidence, and performance. Secondary outcomes will include quality of life measures, adverse events, and resource use.

RESULTS

Results will be discussed based on subgroup analyses where able, including (1) time post-stroke (acute-subacute or chronic), (2) delivery of intervention (group or individualized), (3) type of intervention (education, impairment-based, activity participation, or mixed).

CONCLUSIONS

Findings of this review will increase understanding of effective rehabilitation practices to increase leisure participation after stroke and may contribute to updates of existing clinical practice guidelines for stroke rehabilitation.

CLINICALTRIAL

PROSPERO, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/ (Registration ID: CRD42024547133)
Mitigating the Impact of Socio-Cultural and Economic Diversity on the Morbidity of Sexually Transmissible Infections (STIs) among people living with HIV infection (PLWHIV) in the Urban and Rural Communities in the Meme Division, South West Region of Cameroon: Protocol for a cross-sectional study. (Preprint)
Authors: Obase Bekindaka , Forgu Esemu Livo , Asangbeng Tanue Elvis , Ondape Achu Charlton , Awanakam Awanakam Honore , Bigoga Jude Daiga , Nsagha Dickson Shey , Morey Mitchell
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Sexually transmissible infections (STIs) typically concentrate in core areas, or risk spaces, that can be defined geographically. These infections co-existence with HIV may result in severe health complications.

OBJECTIVE

(a) determining the seroprevalence of hepatitis B, syphilis and chlamydia infections among people living with HIV (PLWHIV) from the rural and urban communities, (b) evaluate the effect of co-morbidity of STIs on Hematological parameters among PLHIV infection within these communities, (c) assess the factors exacerbating the morbidity of sexually transmissible diseases among PLWHIV and develop context-specific policy recommendations to facilitate the mitigation of socio-cultural and (d) socio-economic drivers of the morbidity of these infections in the rural and urban settings in Meme division

METHODS

A hospital-based cross-sectional design was adopted that will recruit a minimum of 178 PLWHIV from within the urban and rural communities in Meme division from December 2024 to March 2025. Data will be collected using well-structured questionnaires with the help of kobo tool box software and about 4mL of blood will be collected from which syphilis, hepatitis B, chlamydia, full blood count and ABO blood grouping serological assays will be done. Data will be analyzed using STATA and GraphPad prism statistical packages and p-values <0.05 will be considered as statistically significant.

RESULTS

The seroprevalence of syphilis, hepatitis and chlamydia will be determined among PLHIV from rural and urban communities, association between the different WBCs parameters and the occurrence of STIs will be determined, factors exacerbating the spread of these infections among PLHIV from the rural and urban communities will be determined, and context-specific policy recommendations to facilitate the mitigation of socio-cultural and socio-economic drivers of the morbidity of these infections in the rural and urban settings will be developed.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of STIs among PLWHIV is high and this has an effect on hematological parameters with factors such as multiple sexual partners, age, HIV status, dental procedures outside health facilities exacerbating these infections morbidity.
Global Longitudinal Strain and Brain Natriuretic Peptide as Prognostic Biomarkers for Asymptomatic Severe Aortic Regurgitation with Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Protocol for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Kim Myung-Rho , Shaikh Taha , Taylor Spencer , Wang Shawn , Goel Vidhani , Dicaro Michael , Khetarpal Banveet Kaur , Batra Kavita
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

The brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) are emerging biomarkers used to risk stratify patients with asymptomatic severe AR with preserved ejection fraction (EF). While numerous clinical trials have investigated the efficacy of these biomarkers in patients with aortic stenosis, only a limited number examined these biomarkers in patients with aortic regurgitation (AR). Therefore, the proposed systematic review and meta-analysis seeks to assess the prognostic value of BNP and/or GLS in patients with severe asymptomatic AR and preserved EF.

OBJECTIVE

This is a protocol manuscript for a systematic review and meta-analysis which will collect and synthesize high-quality clinical data on the usefulness of BNP and GLS as prognostic indicators for asymptomatic severe AR with preserved EF. By providing a comprehensive review, our study will have a significant impact in determining surgical candidacy in this patient population.

METHODS

In accordance with the PRISMA framework, a comprehensive search of databases, including PubMed, Cochrane and Embase will be performed to retrieve peer-reviewed, English-only, observational and experimental studies published from inception to November 2024. Studies which investigated patients aged 18+ years and having severe AR with normal EF will be included. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) tool will be utilized to assess the quality of the studies.

RESULTS

The development and refinement of the search strategy took place in November 2024 and currently we are working on selection of the articles. Screening and full-texts’ retrieval are expected to be completed by April 2025. Data extraction, summarization, and risk of bias assessment will be conducted in May 2025. Meta-analysis and manuscript writing will take place between June-August 2025.

CONCLUSIONS

Both BNP and GLS are cost-effective and if these two biomarkers demonstrate superior prognostic potential compared to LV ejection fraction for risk stratification in patients with asymptomatic severe AR and preserved EF, they could significantly enhance the healthcare practice.

CLINICALTRIAL

CRD42024579540
Remote Patient Monitoring System for Polypathological Older Adults at High Risk for Hospitalization: A Retrospective Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: Testa Damien , Salma Israa , Iborra Vincent , Roussel Victoire , Dutech Mireille , Minvielle Etienne , Cabanes Elise
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND

Healthcare systems are increasingly confronted by the challenge posed by the aging population. In particular, hospitalization, both initial and subsequent, is often observed among the polypathological elderly, while it is estimated that over 30% of such hospitalizations could be avoided. In this context, remote patient monitoring (RPM) systems offer a promising solution, enabling early detection and management of patient complexity.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to provide a complementary analysis of the impact of the EPOCA RPM system for polypathological elderly people, on the total number of unplanned hospitalization days and admissions, as well as emergency department (ED) visits. In an earlier study, we evaluated the EPOCA PRM system when the system operator is a geriatrician; in the current one, we evaluate the case when the general practitioner (GP) is the operator.

METHODS

A retrospective, before-and-after cohort design was used for the purposes of this study. Patients who benefited from the EPOCA RPM system for more than one year (between February 2022 and August 2024), aged over 70 and with two or more pathologies were included in the analysis. We compared the total number of unplanned hospital admissions, hospitalization days and ED visits between the previous year (Y-1) and the year (Y) of follow-up by the EPOCA RPM system. Statistical analyses were significant at P-value < .05

RESULTS

A total of 80 patients were included, with an average age of 87. Our study showed a significant reduction in hospitalization days by 49% between Y-1 and Y. There was also a significant decrease in the number of unplanned hospital admissions (-57%) and ED visits (-62%). These results were seen by a significant decrease from 0.99 to 0.42 per patient in the number of hospitalizations, from 0.99 to 0.37 in emergency room visits and a reduction of 9.7 hospital days per year per patient, P-value< .001. In addition, there was no observed increase in mortality or transfers to intensive care units

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study support our earlier findings on the potential benefits of EPOCA RPM for managing complex, polypathological elderly patients, this time with the GP as system operator. RPM systems can support GPs and caregivers manage complex geriatric patient care, help reduce healthcare costs and the burden on hospital services, while enabling patients to remain safely at home. Further evidence on the effectiveness of EPOCA RPM system may be obtained in a future large randomized controlled trial