bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a Multi-Motor Asynchronous Electric Drive with Changes in the Coordinated Rotation of the Supply Voltages of the Motors
Authors: Tergemes Kazhybek , Nalibayev Nurgali , Zhauyt Algazy , Besterekova Altyn , Nigmatullin Rassim , Zhivayeva Olga , Kazanina Irina
Published: July 2024

In the proposed article, the issues of increasing the synchronizing ability of the system of coordinated rotation of asynchronous motors are considered. Based on the T-shaped equivalent circuit, electromechanical relationships were obtained with changes in the value of the total rotor resistance and the supply voltage of individual motors. An algorithm for calculating the torques, stator and rotor currents of the motors of the system has been compiled. Based on the calculations obtained, the mechanical characteristics of the system asynchronous motors are constructed for various values of total resistance, supply voltages and rotor positions. The obtained data and graphs confirm the adequacy of the theory obtained in an analytical way. Functional and structural diagrams in small scales have been compiled, which allow simulating transient operation modes of multi-motor asynchronous electric drives in the Matlab application package. Multi-motor asynchronous electric drives with adjustable supply voltages, as well as with preliminary synchronization and synchronous braking, have been developed. Compilation of a program for the stability of a nonlinear system of a multi-motor asynchronous electric drive (MAEDs) with a thyristor voltage converter (TVC) in Matlab. Also, the modes of soft start, load shedding and surge on the motor shaft are simulated, confirming the stability of the system.
The Best Symmetry by Finding the Optimal Clustering Filters for Specific Lighting Conditions
Authors: Hrytsyk Volodymyr , Borkivskyi Anton , Oliinyk Taras
Published: July 2024

This article explores the efficiency of various clustering methods for image segmentation under different luminosity conditions. Image segmentation plays a crucial role in computer vision appli-cations, and clustering algorithms are commonly used for this purpose. The search for an adaptive clustering mechanism aims to ensure maximum symmetry of real objects with objects/segments in their digital representations. However, clustering methods performance can fluctuate with varying lighting conditions during image capture. Therefore, we assess the performance of several clustering algorithms — including k-means, K-Medoids, fuzzy c-means, Possibilistic C-Means, Gus-tafson-Kessel, Entropy-based Fuzzy, Riddler-Calvard, Kohonen Self-Organizing Maps, and Meanshift — across images captured under different illumination conditions. Additionally, we develop an adaptive image segmentation system utilizing empirical data. Conducted experiments highlight varied performance among clustering methods under different luminosity conditions. This research enhance better understanding of luminosity's impact on image segmentation and aiding in method selection for diverse lighting scenarios.
Identification of the coefficient in the diffusion model of hydrodynamic flow in a chemical reactor
Authors: Gamzaev Khanlar  Mehbali  oglu , Bayramova Nusaba  Khanlar  gizi
Published: July 2024

This article analyzes in detail the actual problem of the spread of disinformation through various media resources and their impact on society. The main aspects of information consumption by Ukrainian society, in particular on the Internet, are highlighted, and the potential target audience is determined. Based on the analysis, a new intelligent system based on Natural Language Processing technology is proposed, which provides users with a comprehensive overview of the activity of each media resource. Available analogues with their advantages and limitations are examined in detail, emphasizing the significant advantages of the proposed intelligent system for increasing information literacy and countering disinformation. Refs.: 19 titles.
Investigation of the accuracy of integral models of the oculo-motor system
Authors: Pavlenko Vitaliy , Lukashuk Denys
Published: July 2024

For mathematical modeling of the human oculomotor system (OMS), integral nonlinear models are used, which simultaneously take into account the nonlinear and inertial properties of the research object. Based on the data of experimental studies of the OMS "input-output", transient and diagonal intersections of transient functions of the second and third orders are determined. To obtain experimental data, an innovative eye tracking technology is used, which allows recording eye responses to test visual stimuli. Thus test signals are displayed on the computer monitor at different distances from the starting position in the horizontal direction. The aim of the research is to study the accuracy of OMS identification using eye-tracking data by evaluating the calculation errors of multidimensional transient functions when using methods of nonlinear dynamic identification based on models in the form of Volterra series and polynomials. The object of the study is the process of nonparametric identification of the OMS based on Volterra models in the time domain. The subject of the research is algorithmic and software tools for calculating the dynamic characteristics of OMS based on eye-tracking data, analyzing the accuracy of the obtained models using two identification methods: the approximation method and the least squares method (LSM). The means of nonlinear dynamic identification of the human OMS based on Volterra series and polynomials were developed in the Python programming environment. The accuracy estimates of various OMS (linear, quadratic, and cubic) models were obtained based on data from three responses to test signals of different amplitudes. For the same test signals, the same models in the form of the Volterra series and polynomials were obtained, as these models coincide in the region of convergence of the Volterra series. The analysis of errors in the assessment of the dynamic characteristics of the OMS demonstrated that the model in the form of an integral polynomial of the second degree, which was built using the LSM based on three responses, has an accuracy twice as high as the accuracy of similar models built using the data of two responses. Thus, in further studies of the psychophysiological state of a person based on nonlinear dynamic models of the OMS according to the data of three responses, it is advisable to use a model in the form of a quadratic Volterra polynomial. Figs.: 17. Tabl. 3. Refs.: 10 titles.
Models and methods of object detection in digital image processing
Authors: Liubchenko Vira , Moroz Dmytro
Published: July 2024

Object detection in digital images can face such problems that arise in the process of image registration as the presence of noise, low image quality/resolution, illumination heterogeneity, overlapping objects, and others. These problems complicate the process of object detection and lead to errors in image processing algorithms. To solve these problems, we study the advantages, disadvantages, and technical features of models and methods for detecting objects in digital images for their reasonable selection in practical applications. Figs. 2. Refs. 11 titles.
Synthesis of hardware and software for adaptive discrete high-order control systems based on a model of the desired transient process with a guaranteed degree of stability
Authors: Kaсhanov Petro , Sytnik Borys , Miroshnyk Anatolii
Published: July 2024

In this work, analytical expressions for the connection between optimization criteria andsettings parameters of the adaptive PI-PID controller with variable parameters of the object andadaptive filter have been removed. A method for synthesizing a model of discrete controllersbased on given dynamic characteristics has been developed. A method has been developed forsynthesizing a model of a discrete PID controller based on given dynamic characteristics basedon the criterion of the transient process of a guaranteed level of stability. 3 figures, 0 tables, 32formulas, 19 bibliographic sources..Analytical expressions have been removed to link the optimization criteria andadjustment parameters of the adaptive PI-PID controller with the variable parameters of theobject and adaptive filter.A method for synthesizing a model of discrete controllers from specified dynamiccharacteristics has been developed. The average warehouse of output pulses at the output of anonlinear channel, which is formed at the output of such a regulator and is seen as an inertialinduced uninterrupted part, changes according to the law, which is designated as a reversetransmission the function of the lanyard of the new molded filter model at the collar of the non-linear element.A method has been developed for synthesizing a model of a discrete PID controller fromspecified dynamic characteristics based on the criterion of the required transient process of aguaranteed stability level.The modeling showed that while the parameters of the object and the adaptive filter willchange during the ASC operation, then, obviously, the optimal parameters for adjusting theadaptive PID controller will immediately change.
An approach to modeling the spatial interaction of point sets on integer regular grids
Authors: Dashkevych Andrii
Published: July 2024

The paper demonstrates a generalized approach to modeling the interaction of points and point sets on integer regular grids in metric spaces. The modeling process is based on the definition of spatial relations in "Point-Set" and "Set-Set" pairs, which allows to determine the spatial interaction between arbitrary geometric objects, defined as grid-based geometric models (GGM), which represent point sets on regular grids, generalized schemes of spatial interaction are developed in the work. As a result of the work, software was developed for conducting computer experiments on simulation of interaction in metric spaces of arbitrary dimensions and visualization of their results. The developed approach was tested on data sets of different dimensions. Figs.: 10. Refs.: 11 titles.
Overview of the problem and possibilities of improving information literacy
Authors: Uhryn Dmytro , Kalancha Artem
Published: July 2024

This article analyzes in detail the actual problem of the spread of disinformation through various media resources and their impact on society. The main aspects of information consumption by Ukrainian society, in particular on the Internet, are highlighted, and the potential target audience is determined. Based on the analysis, a new intelligent system based on Natural Language Processing technology is proposed, which provides users with a comprehensive overview of the activity of each media resource. Available analogues with their advantages and limitations are examined in detail, emphasizing the significant advantages of the proposed intelligent system for increasing information literacy and countering disinformation. Figs.: 3. Refs.: 9 titles
Apathy
Authors: Stoliarov Alexander ,   RAS Institute of Philosophy
Published: July 2024

Apathy – a term of ancient philosophy, which was also used by representatives of patristics, medieval scholasticism and New Age philosophy. “Apathy”, de-pending on the understanding of affectability as the ability to undergo an impact, can mean the absence of any suffering (passion, affect), immunity to this or that influence or non-subjection to it. In the broadest sense, there are two types of nonafficiability: general nonafficiability as immunity to any influence (ontological connotation), and special (spiritual) nonafficiability as immunity to passions or as freedom from passions (ethical connotation). The most common Latin equivalents of the Greek term ἀπάθειαare “impassibilitas”,“tranquillitas”. The article shows what shades of meaning were conveyed using these terms by ancient philosophers (pre-Socratics, Plato, Aristotle, Stoics, Neoplatonists), numerous representatives of Greek and Latin patristics, representatives of medieval philosophy (Thomas Aquinas) and New Age philosophy (Spinoza, Kant).
O desafio do desenvolvimento de competências linguísticas de PLE por alunos chineses nas aulas on-line durante a pandemia
Authors: Liu Carina Jiayu
Published: July 2024

A pandemia de COVID-19 colocou quase todo o setor educativo em atividade on-line a nível mundial, tendo a China sido um dos primeiros países a ser afetado. No entanto, devido às características do ensino on-line, o desenvolvimento das competências dos aprendentes pode encontrar desafios. No caso de ensino de línguas estrangeiras, as competências relativas a ouvir, falar, ler e escrever na língua alvo podem ser afetadas em diferentes graus devido às suas naturezas inerentes. Consequentemente, o desenvolvimento destas competências pode ficar desequilibrado. O presente trabalho visa investigar, entre as quatro competências linguísticas, quais foram mais (e menos) afetadas pelo surgimento de aulas on-line durante a pandemia na perspectiva dos alunos de português como língua estrangeira (PLE); e tentar analisar as razões para tal fenômeno. Adotando a metodologia mista, 66 aprendentes de PLE numa universidade em Macau responderam a um questionário, que constitui dados quantitativos; enquanto os dados qualitativos provêm de uma entrevista semiestruturada. Os resultados demonstram a desconcentração dos alunos nas aulas on-line bem como o papel indispensável do ensino presencial; e sugerem que as competências de compreensão e produção do oral foram relativamente menos desenvolvidas por causa da falta de interação sincrônica durante as aulas on-line.
Discursive authority in COVID-19 vaccination fact-checking: the case of @butantanoficial on Instagram
Authors: Oliveira Augusto Vinicius de , Alexandre Gabriel Guimarães , Komesu Fabiana , Assis Juliana Alves , Fluckiger Cédric
Published: July 2024

From the theoretical-methodological perspective of New Literacy Studies and French Discourse Analysis, this paper aims to investigate discursive strategies employed by Butantan Institute in publications aimed at debunking dis- or misinformation about COVID-19 vaccination in Brazil. The corpus consists of 32 visual-verbal textual productions (posts) published by the @butantanoficial profile on the digital social network Instagram in the years 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023. The hypothesis, grounded in the studies of Amossy (2022), is that over these years, the Institute has made various attempts to establish authority in the discourse surrounding COVID-19 vaccination, particularly concerning the possession of what would be perceived as “true statements” about vaccination, in contrast to “false statements”, within a context of disinformation and fake news. The results highlight the prioritization of strategies in the discursive construction and re-elaboration of an ethos closely tied to different demands from the public as well as to interests of the Institute itself, across various stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Numerical simulation of potential impulse waves generated by Mogu rock landslide at varying water levels in Lianghekou Reservoir, China
Authors: Chen Shizhuang , Xu Weiya , Zhang Guike , Wang Rubin , Yan Long , Zhang Hailong , Wang Huanling
Published: July 2024

Reservoir impoundment and water level fluctuations often trigger landslides and their secondary disasters, such as potential impulse waves, posing a serious threat to the safety of people along the reservoir and dam areas, causing economic losses and even catastrophic consequences. This study delves into a comprehensive field investigation and monitoring of the engineering geological conditions and deformation mechanisms the Mogu rock landslide. Impoundment is identified as the primary factor inducing slope deformation, with the cumulative displacement of the sliding body showing no signs of convergence, indicating potential instability. By coupling the elasto-visco-plasticity model and the RNG turbulence model in FLOW3D, an actual surge disaster near the Lianghekou Reservoir dam area is replicated to validate the reliability of the numerical method. Building upon this, a three-dimensional model is established to calculate potential impulse waves generated by the Mogu rock landslide, and the risk to the dam is evaluated. Under varying water level conditions, the simulated heights of impulse waves do not surpass the dam elevation, demonstrating a satisfactory safety margin. Given the inherent danger of landslide-induced wave disasters, continuous attention is warranted, and preventive measures and suggestions are proposed to address these concerns. Additionally, the study explores the contributions of water level fluctuations to the primary wave height, the maximum run-up on the opposite bank and the dam, and the attenuation rate of wave height along the river channel. The results provide significant reference values for the early warning and prevention of comparable reservoir landslides and potential landslide-induced waves worldwide.
Characterization of Tobacco Stalk Ash
Authors: BURAGOHAIN ANANYA , Vartic Victoria , Lalmuanpuii Rebecca , Lalrammawia Khawlhring , Mamatkulov Kahramon , Arzymanyan Grigory , Yushin Nikita , Nekhoroshkov Pavel , Zinicovscaia Inga , Muthukumaran Rajendra Bose
Published: July 2024

During the preparation of ‘tuibur’, a non-cigarette tobacco product of Northeast India (NEI), tobacco ash generated from the tobacco stalk (stem, petiole, and midrib) is haphazardly dispersed into the soil. Powder x-ray diffraction (PXRD) analysis indicated the presence of calcite, potassium chloride, potassium aluminum silicate, magnesium calcite and calcium silicate hydrate crystallites in the tobacco ash. C, O, Mg, Al, Si, Cl, K, Ca, Fe, P and Hg species present at the surface of tobacco stalk ash were studied using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES), in a complementary manner, indicated the content of selected heavy elements (essential and non-essential).Scanning electron microscopy combined with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) revealed aggregates of sub-micronorganic tobacco ash particles along with inorganic nano-crystalline particles in the tobacco ash. Raman spectral features revealed the presence of calcite and aragonite, the polymorphs of calcium carbonate, in the tobacco stalk ash samples. Haphazard disposal of tobacco waste such as tobacco ash may lead to environmental degradation.
Feasibility and safety of early cardiac rehabilitation using remote electrocardiogram monitoring in patients with cardiac surgery
Authors: Kim Yeon Mi , Kim Bo Ryun , Pyun Sung Bom , Jung Jae Seung , Kim Hee Jung , Son Ho Sung
Published: July 2024

Background: To evaluate the safety and feasibility of a remote electrocardiogram monitoring-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) program during an early postoperative period in patients with cardiac surgery.
Methods: Five days after cardiac surgery, patients were referred to a CR department and participated in a low-intensity inpatient CR program. During 2 weeks of the home-based CR period after discharge, patients participated in aerobic and resistance exercises. electrocardiogram data were transmitted to a cloud where researchers closely monitored them and provided feedback to the patients via telephone calls.
Grip strength (GS), 6-min walk distance (6MWD) and self-reported questionnaires were measured at three different time points: 5 days postsurgery (T1), predischarge (T2), and 2 weeks after discharge (T3). Squat endurance tests and CPET were performed only at T2 and T3.
Results: Sixteen patients completed the study, seven of whom underwent coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). During the period between T2 and T3, peak VO2 improved from 12.39±0.57 to 17.93±1.25 mL/kg/min (p<0.01). The squat endurance test improved from 16.69±2.31 to 21.81±2.31 (p<0.01). In a comparison of values of time points between T1 and T3, the GS improved from 28.30±1.66 to 30.40±1.70 kg (p=0.02) and 6 MWD increased from 249.33±20.92 to 387.02±22.77 m (p<0.01). The EQ-5D and SF-36 improved from 0.59±0.03 to 0.82±0.03 (p<0.01) and from 83.99±3.40 to 122.82±6.06 (p<0.01), and KASI improved from 5.44±0.58 to 26.11±2.70 (p<0.01).
Conclusion: Early remote ECG monitoring-based CR programs are safe for patients who underwent cardiac surgery. Additionally, the program improved aerobic capacity, functional status, and quality of life.
Trial registration: This study was registered with the Clinical Research Information Service (CRIS) under the trial registration number KCT0006444 on August 13, 2021.
Association between the lactate-to-albumin ratio and 28-day all-cause mortality in critically ill patients with CKD: A retrospective analysis of the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: Chen Lei , Lu Honglei , Lv Chenwei , Ni Haibin , Yu Renjun , Zhang Bing , Hu Xingxing
Published: July 2024

Purpose
The lactate-to-albumin ratio (LAR) has been shown to be associated with adverse outcomes in various diseases. However, there has been no research investigating the impact of LAR on the prognosis of critically ill patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study aimed to elucidate the ability of the LAR to predict 28-day all-cause mortality in critically ill patients with CKD.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective analysis of 4,271 critically ill patients with CKD using the MIMIC-IV database. The exposure factor was the LAR, and the outcome was the 28-day mortality rate. Hazard ratios (HRs) along with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were computed using multivariate Cox regression.
Results
Multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed that compared with that in the tertile 1 group, the HR for 28-day mortality in the tertile 2 group was 1.55 (95% CI: 1.26–1.92, P < 0.001), and the HR was 1.91 (95% CI: 1.54–2.36, P < 0.001). K-M analysis demonstrated that patients in the higher LAR group had higher 28-day, 90-day, and one-year mortality rates (P < 0.001).
Conclusions
Our study revealed that the LAR can independently predict the 28-day mortality rate in critically ill patients with CKD and can enhance the predictive value of various disease scores.
Risk and protective factors of higher-grade intrapulmonary hemorrhage in patients undergoing Percutaneous CT-guided microcoil localization before VATS
Authors: Li Yunxin , Xu Yanyan , Feng Hongxiang , Zhang Tongyin , Qin Shuzhu , Sun Hongliang , Huang Zhenguo
Published: July 2024

Background: Even though CT-guided microcoil localization before video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is considered as a safe and effective procedure, related complications are not rare and sometimes are severe. The purpose of this study was to investigate the associated factors of higher-grade intrapulmonary hemorrhage caused by CT-guided microcoil localization.
Methods: Totally, 432 consecutive patients with solitary nodule who underwent CT-guided microcoil localization prior to VATS were enrolled in this study. According to CT images after procedure, all the nodules were divided into two groups: higher-grade and no or lower-grade intrapulmonary hemorrhage. The clinical characteristics and microcoil localization procedure-related variables of the nodules were analyzed by univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis to screen the independent factors associated with higher-grade intrapulmonary hemorrhage. P＜0.05 was considered to indicate a statistically significant difference.
Results:Intrapulmonary hemorrhage occurred in 161 of the 432 CT-guided microcoil localizations (37.27%), and higher-grade hemorrhage occurred in 41 of all procedures (9.49%). The logistic regression revealed that repeat insertion (OR=9.712, P<0.001) was the only risk factor for higher-grade intrapulmonary hemorrhage, while procedure-related pneumothorax (OR=0.159, P=0.005), nodule size(>5∽10mm, OR=0.216, P=0.002; >10mm, OR=0.349, P=0.035), pleura-microcoil distance(>20∽30mm, OR=0.365, P=0.018), and lung radiodensity along the needle passage(-850HU∽-900HU, OR=0.426, P=0.032; -900HU or less, OR=0.273, P=0.009) were protective factors for higher-grade intrapulmonary hemorrhage.
Conclusions: Repeat insertion was shown to be an independent risk factor for higher-grade hemorrhage in patients with CT-guided microcoil localization. Procedure-related pneumothorax, nodule size(>5mm), pleura-microcoil distance(>20∽30mm), and lung radiodensity along the needle passage(-850HU or less) were protective factors associated with higher-grade hemorrhage.
Investigation of visually impaired schoolchildren's dental health and salivary microbiota characteristics in Guangzhou, China
Authors: feng Qiong , Huang Wengyan , Zhao Xuedan , Sheng Ting , Peng Bo , Meng Si , Liu Weijia , Ge Lihong , Wang Lijing , Pathak Janak Lal , Jiang Qiangzhou , Lin Rong , Zeng Sujuan
Published: July 2024

Background
Reports indicate that the prevalence of visual impairment (VS) among children in China is on the rise. The oral microbiome plays an essential role in maintaining oral homeostasis and health. The primary objective was to examine the oral health and their oral hygiene habits of VS children in Guangzhou. The secondary objective was to explore the differences in the saliva samples microbiota (SM) between HS (health visual children) and VS children.
Method
101 VS children were chosen to have their oral health examined and their oral hygiene habits surveyed. The oral microbiota was profiled from saliva samples of 20 VS children and 20 healthy visual (HS) children in the Guangzhou population, and 16s rRNA V3-V4 region were sequenced using the Illumina MiSeq platform. The operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were clustered using QIIME and the statistical analysis was performed by R.
Results
Oral hygiene is inadequate among the 101 VS children age from 6-16, who have an exceptionally high caries rate of 92.1%. There was no statistically significant distinction observed in the composition of the salivary microbial community between the two groups. HS children had a higher abundance of Firmicutes, Patescibacteria, and Spirochaetes at the phylum level, and Bacilli, Negativicutes, and Saccharimonadia at the classes level, and Streptococcus at the genus level. In contrast, VS children had more Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria, and Fusobacteriota at the phylum level, and Actinobacteria, Bacteroidia, Gammaproteobacteria, Fusobacteriia, and Clostridia at the classes level, and Rothia, Neisseria, Veillonella, Prevotella_7, Actinomyces, Leptotrichia, and lactobacillales at the genus level. Notably, Actinobacteria was significantly positively correlated with gingivitis and dental caries. Additionally, Actinobacteria salivarius, within the phylum Actinobacteria, was substantially more abundant in VS children.
Conclusion
The study highlights the importance of oral health care for visually impaired schoolchildren in Guangzhou. It provides valuable insights into the salivary microbiota characteristics of this population and suggests potential targets for intervention to improve their oral health status.
Impact of acute exercise on performance and physiological stress during simulated firefighter occupational tasks
Authors: Agostinelli Philip , Bordonie Nicholas C. , Robbins Ann M. , Jones Parker L. , Reagan Lee F. , Mobley C. Brooks , Miller Matthew W. , Murrah William M. , Sefton JoEllen M.
Published: July 2024

Purpose
We aimed to determine how a bout of resistance or aerobic exercise impacts physiological responses and performance during firefighting occupational tasks.
Methods
Thirty-two non-firefighters completed two baseline assessments, and three trials: resistance exercise (RE), aerobic exercise (AE), or rested control (CON). Trials were followed by an occupational task assessment (OTA; four rounds of 10 deadlifts (85 or 135lbs) and 0.15-mile 40lb-sandbag carry) in an environmental chamber (35°C/50% humidity).
Results
Time to complete by condition was not statistically different (CON: 1134 ± 261, AE: 1198 ± 214, RE: 1212 ± 302 sec; p = 0.162). Average heart rate (CON: 148.5 ± 16.2, AE: 166.3 ± 11.5, RE: 159.9 ± 13.0 bpm; p < 0.01), core temperature (CON: 37.56 ± 0.35, AE: 38.68 ± 0.26, RE: 38.44 ± 0.46°C; p < 0.01), and skin temperature (CON: 36.33 ± 0.54, AE: 37.48 ± 0.58, RE: 36.87 ± 0.86°C; p < 0.01) were elevated during OTA following AE and RE compared to CON, and higher following AE compared to RE.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest job performance may not be impacted, physiological strain during the tasks may be elevated; increasing risk for heat injury following on-shift exercise, and more prominently following aerobic exercise.
Unlocking the Puzzle: Under-Five Mortality and Its Determinants in Africa". A Systematic Review
Authors: Avelino Israel , Van-Dúnem Joaquim , Varandas Luís
Published: July 2024

Purpose
Mortality among children under five is a critical measure of public health, amenable to preventive interventions. Despite global strides in reducing fatalities in this age group, disparities persist, notably in Sub-Saharan Africa.This study aimed to systematize knowledge on factors contributing to under-five mortality in Africa, emphasizing sociodemographic and health aspects.
Methods
A systematic review was conducted adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Articles were sourced from Lilacs, Scielo, and Medline via PubMed, BVS Google Scholar, and grey literature. Keywords and Boolean operators facilitated relevant study retrieval. Articles on children under five, published between January 2013 and December 2022, in English, Portuguese, or Spanish, in peer-reviewed journals were included. Methodological quality assessment utilized the Joanna Briggs Institute tool.
Results
Among 694 identified studies, only 30 met inclusion criteria. Socioeconomic factors like poverty and maternal education, alongside maternal age extremes, multiparity, inadequate prenatal care, and low birth weight, emerged as primary determinants of child mortality.
Conclusion
Addressing social disparities, particularly through maternal education and improved primary healthcare services, is crucial for curbing under five mortality in Africa.
Molecular Detection of Buruli ulcer among Patients with Various Degrees of Skin Ulcerative Lesions Revealed Zero Prevalence in Parts of Jigawa State, Northern Nigeria
Authors: Kashim Yusuf Adeiza , Dogara Mustatpha Musa , Mienda Bashir Sajo , Nwafor Timothy. E , Akinwale Olaoluwa Pheabian , Adeniyi Kamoru Abdulazeez , Abubakar Hamza Haruna
Published: July 2024

The indolent, necrotizing Buruli ulcer disease is a chronic condition caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, an environmental bacteria that can damage the skin, tissues, and bones. It is now recognized as one of the 20 Neglected Tropical Diseases targeted for elimination by the year 2030. Public health continues to face difficulties due to its mechanism of transmission that is yet to be completely unravel. From December 2019 to September 2023, a hospital-based study was conducted to ascertain the prevalence of Buruli ulcer in parts of Jigawa State, Nigeria. A purposive sampling technique was adopted in selecting and diagnosing 382 samples from patients with various degrees of skin ulcerative lesions across all age groups and gender. The diagnosis of all the samples initially involved the use of Ziehel Nelseen staining procedure. Thirty-five (35) samples with symptoms suspected to be Buruli ulcer were diagnosed using Real-time Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) method. The results were negative for the 382 samples diagnosed using Ziehel Nelseen staining procedure as well as the 35 using real-Time PCR. This study concludes that despite testing samples with obvious ulcerative lesions suspected to be Buruli ulcer from patients, both Ziehel Nelseen staining procedure and Real-Time PCR revealed negative results. It is recommended that more samples suspected to have symptoms of Buruli ulcers should be diagnosed using Real-Time PCR and also make use of both IS2404 and IS2606.
Comparative Study of Signal Control Models for Roundabouts
Authors: Guo Rui-Jun , Xu Yuan , Yu Yue , Wang Wanxiang , Gao Zhong-Chuan
Published: July 2024

Traffic signal is one of the control approaches used for roundabouts. Although many models are used for signalized roundabouts, studies involving their comparative analysis are not sufficient. This study focuses on evaluation of traffic signal timing approaches used for roundabouts. Different control models of roundabouts were carried out by using VISSIM software. We compared different methods including the priority control, the entrance signalization and the full signalization control approaches. A number of simulation experiments were designed. Signal timing values were calculated by using the data obtained from field observations. For the two-stage left-turn signal control, the new signal timing process and calculating method were proposed. Some detailed experiments were also made regarding the Yang model and the model developed by Cakici and Murat. Some threshold values were determined in the experiments. Different intersection geometries and traffic conditions were taken into account. Very interesting and encouraging results were obtained.
Prognosis analysis of palliative chemotherapy combined with radical local gastric surgery for advanced gastric cancer patients with single non-curable factor
Authors: Zheng Tao , Chen Yizhen , Lin Shengtao , Yang Changshun , Li Weihua
Published: July 2024

There are limited studies on the treatment of patients with advanced gastric cancer with a single non-curable factor by palliative chemotherapy (PC) combined with local radical gastrectomy (LRG).In this study, our aim is to analyze the effectiveness and safety of palliative chemotherapy combined with local radical gastrectomy(PC-LRG)for patients with advanced gastric cancer with a single non-resectable factor. We retrospectively analyzed the patients with advanced gastric cancer with a single unresectable factor who received first-line chemotherapy in Fujian Provincial Hospital from January 2017 to June 2023. In total, 69 consecutive patients were enrolled into the PC(39 patients) and LRG-PC (30 patients) group. The primary research endpoint is the overall survival (OS) of patients in both groups, and the secondary research endpoint is the time of resistance to the first-line chemotherapy protocol.The OS of the PC-LGR group (20.0 VS 10.0 months, P<0.0001) and the time for changing the first-line chemotherapy plan (7.5 VS 3.2 cycles, p<0.05) were significantly better. There was statistical significance between the average total number of chemotherapy cycles of the two groups (8.7 VS 6.1, p<0.05). The incidence of grade III or higher adverse reactions to chemotherapy in the PC group (12.8% VS 33.3%, p=0.41) was better than that in the PC-LGR group.For patients with advanced gastric cancer who have a single non-reversible factor, PC-LGR may reduce tumor burden, improve tolerance to chemotherapy drugs, and prolong the OS of patients.
Comparative analysis of Artemisia plastomes and insights into the infra-generic phylogenetic relationships of the genus
Authors: Guo Xinqiang , Xue Dawei , Wu Yuhuan , Yu Mengjie
Published: July 2024

Background
The genus Artemisia is a taxonomically difficult group comprising 400–500 species mainly distributed in northern hemisphere. Only a limited number of Artemisia plastomes are currently available. Their structure has not been comparatively analyzed, and the phylogenetic backbone of Artemisia based on plastome-scale data has not been reported with dense taxon sampling. This situation has greatly hindered our understanding on the plastome variation patterns and infra-generic relationships of the genus. With the advancement of next generation sequencing technologies, it is becoming easier to obtain and comparatively analyze the plastome, and use it to construct phylogeny.
Results
In this study, we newly sequenced 34 Artemisia plastomes representing 30 species and three varieties. Combing with 38 previously published plastomes, a total of 72 complete Artemisia plastomes were comparatively analyzed. The results indicated that the Artemisia plastomes were conserved in terms of structure, GC content, gene number and order. All plastomes have a typical quadripartite structure, comprising 87 protein coding, 37 tRNA, and 8 rRNA genes. The IR regions are similar in length and structure among the compared plastomes, with the generic regions more conserved than intergenic spacer regions. The sequence divergence is higher in LSC and SSC regions than in IR regions. Three protein-coding genes and four non-coding regions, i.e., accD, petG, ycf1, rpoC1-rpoC2, rpoC2-rps2, trnG(UCC)-trnfM(CAU), and ndhG-ndhI, were found to be highly diverse, and could be chosen as candidates of DNA barcode. Phylogenetic relationships constructed using protein coding genes of plastomes were divided into several clades that did not match with previous infra-generic divisions of Artemisia, and four subgenera were not monophyletic. Furthermore, they were also inconsistent with those based on nuclear markers. And the phylogenetic position of A. stracheyi is still controversial.
Conslusions
This study reveals that the Artemisia plastomes are conservative, especially in structure, gene number and order. Phylogenetic relationships constructed using CDS further confirmed the infra-generic divisions of Artemisia were not natural. This study lay a foundation for future evolutionary studies of Artemisia.
Identification of a gefitinib resistance-associated signature for predicting prognosis and therapeutic response in lung adenocarcinoma via integrated multi-omics analysis and machine learning
Authors: Zhou Dong , Zheng Zhi , Li Yan-Qi , Liu Quan-Xing , Deng Xu-Feng , Chen Liang , Li Man-Yuan , Zhang Jiao , Lu Xiao , Zheng Hong , Dai Ji-Gang
Published: July 2024

Gefitinib resistance (GR) is widespread; therefore, alternative treatments for lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) are needed. The study of gefitinib-resistance gene sets may lead to a better understanding of the mechanism underlying GR, methods for predicting and preventing GR, and alternative therapies. GR gene sets, single-cell data, and transcriptome data were obtained from public databases. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses and machine learning techniques were used to screen genes and construct a signature, respectively. Survival analysis and time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess signature performance in internal and external data sets. Enrichment and tumor immune-microenvironment analyses were used to explore the mechanism of the signature genes in GR. Novel immunological and non-immunological therapies were explored. A signature consisting of 22 genes was successfully constructed in LUAD cohort, which performed well in both internal and external validation. The signature was closely related to chromosomal processes, DNA replication, important immune-cell infiltration, and multiple immune scores in enrichment and tumor microenvironment analyses. Further, the signature predicted immunotherapy efficacy in patients with LUAD to a certain extent, and we identified various agents other than gefitinib that may have better treatment effects in high-risk and low-risk groups, providing treatment guidance for gefitinib-resistant patients. The 22-gene signature can predict the prognosis of gefitinib-resistant patients with LUAD and immunotherapy efficacy, and provides new guidance for non-immunotherapy.
Electronic data capture in resource-limited settings using the lightweight clinical data acquisition and recording system for clinical studies – LCARS-C
Authors: Vielhauer Jakob , Mahajan Ujjwal Mukund , Adorjan Kristina , Benesch Christopher , Oehrle Bettina , Beyer Georg , Sirtl Simon , Johlke Anna-Lena , Allgeier Julian , Pernpruner Anna , Erber Johanna , Shamsrizi Parichehr , Schulz Christian , Albashiti Fady , Hinske Ludwig Christian , Mayerle Julia , Stubbe Hans Christian
Published: July 2024

Our prototype system designed for clinical data acquisition and recording of studies is a novel electronic data capture (EDC) software for simple and lightweight data capture in clinical research. Existing software tools are either costly or suffer from very limited features. To overcome these shortcomings, we designed an EDC software together with a mobile client. We aimed at making it easy to set-up, modifiable, scalable and thereby facilitating research. We wrote the software in R using a modular approach and implemented existing data standards along with a metadata driven interface and database structure. The prototype is an adaptable open-source software, which can be installed locally or in the cloud without advanced IT-knowledge. A mobile web interface and progressive web app for mobile use and desktop computers is added. We show the software’s capability, by demonstrating four clinical studies with over 1600 participants and 679 variables per participant. We delineate a simple deployment approach for a server-installation and indicate further use-cases. The software is available under the MIT open-source license. Conclusively the software is versatile, easily deployable, highly modifiable, and extremely scalable for clinical studies. As an open-source R-software it is accessible, open to community-driven development and improvement in the future.
Heparin therapy improved outcomes in elderly critically ill patients with sepsis: A marginal structural model analysis from the MIMIC-IV database
Authors: ren zongfang , Huang Jia-jia , Yang Zhen-jia , Xin Kai , Li Da-zheng , Chen Yu-hua , Guan Yu-Hong , Liu Zhi-feng , Yao Yong-ming , Wu Ming
Published: July 2024

Background
Heparin, a multitarget agent that protects against sepsis, has been extensively studied. The efficacy of heparin therapy to provide a survival advantage for elderly, critically ill patients with sepsis remains inconclusive. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of heparin therapy in elderly, critically ill patients with sepsis.
Methods
We identified elderly septic patients (aged ≥ 65 years) from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care (MIMIC-IV) database. We employed propensity score matching (PSM), marginal structural Cox models (MSCMs), and E-value analyses to account for confounding factors. Heparin was administered within 48 h of ICU admission. The primary endpoint was ICU mortality, while secondary outcomes included 28-day, 90-day, and in-hospital mortality, along with haemorrhage occurrence.
Results
A total of 3866 elderly patients with sepsis were enrolled in the study, with 1434 patients receiving heparin and 2432 patients without heparin therapy. Early heparin therapy significantly reduced ICU mortality (hazard ratio [HR] 0.64, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.48–0.81) and haemorrhage occurrence (HR 0.43, 95% CI 0.33–0.56) across the overall population with PSM. However, early heparin therapy did not significantly improve 28-day, 90-day, or in-hospital mortality. MSCMs further confirmed that heparin administration reduced ICU mortality (HR 0.58, 95% CI: 0.44–0.75) in the general population. Stratification analysis using MSCMs indicated that heparin administration was associated with a reduced ICU mortality rate among patients on ventilation (HR 0.55, 95% CI 0.41–0.74) and with AKI (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.45–0.78) (P < 0.001).
Conclusions
Heparin administration to elderly patients at the early stages of sepsis is effective in reducing ICU mortality without increasing the risk of bleeding. Prospective studies are needed to verify this findings.
Educational Research on Medical Residency Programs in Chile: A Scoping Review and Analysis of the Impact of the New Accreditation Policy
Authors: Donato Katherine Marín , Armijo-Rivera Soledad , Pérez René Cantariño , Vicencio-Clarke Scarlett , Ramírez-Delgado Paulina , Bonifay Ximena Triviño , Díaz-Guío Diego Andrés , Mujica Carolina Acuña
Published: July 2024

Background
Accrediting medical specialties programs are expected to influence and standardize training program quality, align curriculum with population needs, and improve learning environments. Despite global agreement on its necessity, methods vary widely. In the Chilean context, a recent new accreditation criteria includes research productivity in relation to educational research on resident programs, so we aimed to define it. What is the profile of publications in educational research produced by Chilean medical specialty residency programs in the last five years? Based on these results, we intend to analyze the potential impact of the new accreditation policy on medical specialty programs in Chile.
Methods
We performed a preliminary bibliometric search to identify the use of the term “resident” in literature. After that, we conducted a literature search, using a six-step approach to scoping reviews, including the appraisal of the methodological quality of the articles.
Results
Between 2019 and 2023, an average of 6.2 articles were published yearly (19%). The bibliometric analysis revealed that the dominant thematic area of the journals was clinical, accounting for 78.1%. Most articles focused on residents (84.38%), with only two articles including graduates as participants. One university was responsible for 62.50% of the articles and participated in all multicenter studies (9.38%). Surgical specialties produced 15 research articles focused on procedural training using simulation. Psychiatry was the second most productive specialty, with 5 articles (15.63%) covering standardized patients, well-being, and mental health assessment. The most frequent research focus within residency programs over the five-year period was teaching and learning methodologies, with 19 articles representing almost 60% of the total analyzed.
Conclusions
Considering the low number of programs with publications in educational research compared to the number of programs reported by the official site of the Ministry of Education, and considering that the articles found only address a few areas of resident training, we can conclude that the new accreditation policies could negatively affect the accreditation of these programs. To mitigate this impact, it is crucial that universities implement strategies to increase productivity in these areas.
Microwave-Assisted Synthesis and Evaluation of SnO 2 Nanostructures: Structural, Optical, and Thermal Characterization
Authors: RAJESH N. , SOBANA P. NAGARANI
Published: July 2024

Semiconducting tin oxide (SnO2) nanostructures were successfully synthesized using a simple, rapid, and energy-saving microwave-assisted technique. The prepared SnO2 samples were characterized by XRD, TEM, EDX, UV–DRS, photoluminescence, and TGA/DTA, demonstrating good crystal quality. The structure and surface morphology of the samples were investigated as a function of microwave irradiation using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). Structural studies by XRD revealed that the samples exhibit a tetragonal cassiterite structure, with a crystallite size observed to vary from 2 to 23 nm according to TEM measurements. UV-VIS diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) indicated that the direct and indirect band gap energies of SnO2 are 3.86 and 1.56 eV, respectively. To highlight the optical properties of the SnO2 nanostructures, the variation of photon energy concerning microwave radiation was investigated through absorption and extinction coefficient studies, refractive index, dielectric constant, and optical conductivity studies. The SnO2 nanoparticles exhibited emission peaks at 428, 484, 525, and 632 nm in the photoluminescence spectrum. The major weight loss observed in thermo gravimetric analysis and differential thermal analysis (TGA/DTA) corresponds to the formation of tin oxide.