bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical task for orbital electron in transition subatomic structure
Authors: Ivantsov Mikhail
Published: October 2021

The present work as part of a known task of single-electron atom has been carried out, wherein one mathematical theorem is proved. Herewith an orbital electron was modeled, for which a certain parallelism exists between the highlighted ground state of the atom and special transition states in subatomic structure. Moreover, the ground state in unambiguous solution of fine-structure constant is obtained, where first transition state at the exceptional accordance with proton nucleus can be founded. For here, it is possible to relate the hyper-fine nuclear structure like the Lamb shift of hydrogen atom. In this substantiation of the task, multiply charged states were predicted for a hypothetical nucleus, as in the higher order of meson-boson transitions. The specified approach, in the terms of electric interaction, may be beyond a scope of the existing boson classification, supposedly for the carriers of electroweak interaction.
Quantitative Survey of ‘Montmorency’ Tart Cherry Orchard Design in Utah
Authors: Brym Zachary T. , Black Brent L.
Published: October 2021

‘Montmorency’ tart cherry trees (Prunus cerasus L.) are grown commercially in the United States in low-density systems. Commercial tart cherry orchard design has not changed significantly over the past 50 years, but there is some variation from farm to farm in management strategies, including tree spacing, training, and pruning, and the resulting orchard production and turnover. Canopy dimensions and dynamics are important considerations for evaluating and improving orchard management strategies but are not well documented for tart cherry systems. Current orchard design and canopy management strategies were surveyed along a gradient of orchard age across five commercial farming operations in Utah. Trunk cross-sectional area and various canopy dimensions, including spread and volume, were quantified to capture tree size and canopy architecture. The survey indicated a surprising lack of deviation in orchard design in the region over the last several decades with higher variation among blocks within a farm than across farms. As a result, the survey revealed trends in tree growth and canopy structure across the range in orchard ages despite differences in management approaches of the surveyed farms. These trends were useful in illustrating canopy development and space fill. Tree age between 11 and 15 years after planting was determined to represent a transition between establishment and mature growth, where canopies filled available row space and began experiencing senescing canopy structure. Based on the distribution of ages captured in the survey, a significant number of orchards in Utah are at an age range of 11–15 years, perhaps contributing to superior yields per land area reported for the region. The confluence of space-fill and canopy development described in this study highlights a critical period for tart cherry orchard management at the transition of canopy establishment and maturity. These baseline dynamics will provide benchmarks for evaluating strategies for refining and improving orchard management systems for tart cherry in the Intermountain West region.
Effects of Natural Environmental Stimulation Duration on Psychophysiological Recovery Benefits
Authors: Chiang Yen-Cheng , Weng Pei-Yi
Published: October 2021

The rapid pace of modern life, as well as chronic work and academic overloading, contribute to our society’s progressively increasing stress levels. Chronic stress can affect both physical and mental well-being. Numerous studies have confirmed that viewing a nature-based video presentation can reduce stress and result in attention recovery. However, the discourse has been primarily focused upon stimulation applied over a single duration, rather than over various durations. Therefore, the present study explored the effect of various viewing durations with regard to forest-related videos on stress reduction and attention recovery. Before the videos’ presentation, the participants’ stress and distraction levels were increased through stimulation. Data on stress, attention, and relaxation were collected through the implementation of the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory and an electroencephalogram instrument. Equal numbers from the 90 participants (i.e., 30) were assigned to watch a short, medium-length, or long video (5, 10, and 20 minutes in duration, respectively). The viewing of 20-minute forest-related videos significantly promoted stress reduction and physiological relaxation. The present findings advance the understanding of the relationship between viewing nature scenes duration and psychophysiological states; thus, they serve as a reference for future research on the natural-dose concept, as well as the development of relevant activities and courses.
Increasing the accuracy of the directional survey when drilling oil and gas wells
Authors:   PetroTool, Teplukhin Vladimir K.
Published: October 2021

Introduction. The method оf directional survey is currently widely used when drilling horizontal and directional wells for oil and gas. The method includes a relatively cumbersome and complex system of 40 “Izvestiya vysshikh uchebnykh zavedenii. Gornyi zhurnal”. No. 6. 2021 ISSN 0536-1028 sequential operations of converting the components of the Earth’s magnetic field into proportional electrical signals using magnetometers, amplifying and scaling sensor signals, integrating analog-todigital conversion of electrical signals, determination of the three components of magnetic fields from the measured output signals of geosteering sensors, and additional introduction of various kinds of corrections to determine the survey parameters of the bottom. Methods of research. The main objective of the research is to improve the accuracy of the directional survey while drilling directional wells for oil and gas. The process of drilling provides accurate online compensation for interference from large ferromagnetic complexes in the bottomhole assembly acting on the sensors of the inclinometer magnetic field components. The developed method for increasing the accuracy of the directional survey when drilling directional wells online eliminates the need for various additional corrections in the course of the drilled well bottom geometric position measurement. Results and analysis. Analytical studies of the structure of the noise created by various magnetic blocks included in the drillsting assembly during installation have been carried out. A specialized device has been developed to control the directional survey process when drilling directional wells. A relatively simple set of processes reduced to magnetic blocks location data and geometric parameters introduction has been developed together with a working system including a microprocessor and compensation solenoids. It made it possible to obtain actual data on the spatial location of the drill string bottom in real time
Stress-strain state and stability of the Unglichikan open pit walls
Authors:   Pacific National University, Gorshkov Nikolai I.
Published: October 2021

Research objective is to identify the features of stress-strained state development and estimate the stability of Unglichikan open pit walls and dump slopes based on calculation, analysis, and estimation with the certified finite element method GenIDE32. The introduction describes features of research object location natural-technogenic conditions and geological history of rocks building up the research object. Research relevance is due to complex solution to deep and high mountain structures design problems, account for construction technologies, and stress-strained state and elements stability determination. Methods of the stress-strained state numerical calculation, analysis, and estimation for the “structure– geological environment” system consists in using all tools of the program’s interface, namely, values, value levels, isolines and graphs for different quantities, including the graphs of stress-strained state behavior trajectories in the space of the stress tensor invariants and relative strains. Results of calculation are presented as the program’s capabilities in graphic representation of the sequential development of mudslides in open pit walls and dump slopes with vertical fissures. Colors of magnitude levels specify the contours of mudslides, while the corresponding shading of finite elements indicates the fissure formation sites. Conclusions. Calculation results proved the stability of the mountain structures for the selected size dimensions of open pit walls and dump slopes.
Studying the effect the physicochemical properties of fine size raw coal organic and mineral composition have on beneficiation efficiency
Authors:   Federal Research Center of Coal and Coal Chemistry, Kamoza Ekaterina S.
Published: October 2021

Introduction. This work presents the results of the research on the effect the petrographic characteristics, elemental and mineral composition have on the Kedrovsko-Krohalevskoe fine coal beneficiation efficiency. The data has been analyzed of raw coal physochemical properties at the stage of mining and dressing mill raw material base formation. Research objective is to study thermal coal by physicochemical methods of analysis to identify the main parameters affecting the quality of beneficiation products. Based on the data obtained, the research aims to develop the method of assessing the indicators affecting the beneficiation process and further forecasting during the development of new areas and coal seams. Methods of research. The structural features of raw KCN (coking low-caking low-metamorphosed) coal were determined by comparative analysis of three samples according to the following parameters: laboratory flotation results, general technical parameters, maceral composition, organic matter elemental composition, and ash mineral composition. Results. It has been established that coals of a similar nature of origin and stage of metamorphism, can have different indicators in vaarious parameters: particle size, number and morphology of microcomponents according to quantitative petrographic analysis, as well as the presence of hydrophilic functional groups on the surface of coals. Conclusions. The results of the studies made it possible to identify a number of dependencies that can be used in a preliminary assessment of the quality of raw coal sent to a coal processing enterprise.
The World turned Upside Down? Cities, Festivalization and Uncertainty
Authors: Gold John R. , Gold Margaret M.
Published: October 2021

The rapid proliferation of festivals experienced by cities round the world over the last four decades was brought to a sudden halt in early 2020 by the coronavirus pandemic. Planned gatherings ranging from local arts festivals to global megaevents were summarily abandoned, postponed,
or converted to digital alternatives. This paper opens with a contextual introduction. The ensuing section considers the reasons for the seemingly unfe ered proliferation and festivalization that had occurred pre-Covid-19, but indicates that problems had already arisen over appropriation of
public space, overtourism and security before the current crisis. The next part surveys the pandemic's impact on the urban festival sector to date. With reference to the megaevents planned for 2020 and a series of case studies of arts festivals, it notes responses ranging from whole or partial
cancellations to implementation of wholly digital options. The conclusion argues that the continuing importance of physical congregation in designated places must be recognized, contending that this is enhanced rather than challenged by the rise of digital alternatives.
AWARENESS OF EARLY WARNING SIGNS OF STROKE IN RURAL AND URBAN POPULATION
Authors: Ambarin M Pirjade , G. Telhande Rushika G. Telhande , Trupti Yadav
Published: October 2021

The objectives of our study are: 1. To find out the awareness of early warning signs of stroke in rural population. 2. To find out the awareness of early warning signs of stroke in urban population. 3. To find out the difference between the level of awareness in rural and urban population. It was a survey - based study in which the population fulfilling the criteria were given the stroke questionnaire with Prior consent. Based on the responses, the percentage of awareness among the population was calculated. The difference between the level of awareness in rural and urban population was calculated. The total Sample was 162 including rural (81) and urban (81). The sample size was derived using formula . Were, p=44.3%, q=100 - p, L= 12% (p= prevalence rate, q= 100 - p, L= allowable error). Based on stroke questionnaire it was seen that the rural population had more prevalence rate of stroke and were familiar with the term stroke or paralysis whereas urban population (12%) was unaware of the warning signs of the stroke. Awareness was quiet high in Rural Population (19%). The level of awareness was less in both the population but was less in urban population as compared to rural population.
SOCIAL COHESION AS A CATEGORY OF STATE POLICY: SPECIFICS OF CONSTRUSTION IN THE UKRAINIAN LEGISLATION
Authors: Олександра Дейнеко
Published: October 2021

The article is dedicated to the sociological analysis of social cohesion construction as a category of state policy. Analyzing the content of Ukraine's sustainable development goals until 2030 and the State Strategy for Regional Development for 2021-2027, the author summarizes the need to determine at the level of legal norms the social capital measurement as a component of social cohesion at the societal level.
ON THE TRANSFORMATION OF LAW IN THE CONTEXT OF COMMUNICATIVE THEORY
Authors: Melkevik Bjarne
Published: October 2021

The author analyses the contribution of Jürgen Habermas as an open model of legal thought. He focuses more specifically on the question of the transformation of law as "anchored" in democratic legitimacy and therefore to be understood from the life world of concrete individuals. The author emphasizes that Habermas seeks to democratically stabilize "legality and legitimacy" to protect them from all undemocratic usurpation. The author stresses the "social validity" that accompanies all public discourse and the perspective of democracy obtained by speaking out at the level of a multitude of social "procedures". It is through practical discussions that we can "test" the normative proposals to better assess their "meanings and validity", their "cognitivity and universality", their "usefulness (“interest”) and (conceivable) consensus". The author analyses these six bodies of thought in detail to identify the meaning of habermasian thought concerning the democratic transformation of the law. He insists that the transformation of the law is "tested" in society from the bottom up in order to create, as much as possible, the broadest possible social consensus concerning “law”. In the end, the law attests to our ability to live together.
THE FIGHT FOR PEOPLE’S CONSCIOUSNESS IN THE POST-TRUTH ERA
Authors: Trebin Mikhailo Petrovych , Chernyshova Taisya Oleksiivna
Published: October 2021

The era of post-truth is investigated as a communicative situation that contributes to the spread of propaganda and counter-propaganda, since it generates a pluralism of interpretations of reality, and, consequently, wide opportunities for creating frames, and is determined mainly by emotional perception of information as opposed to analytical understanding and conscious reflection. Proceeding from the fact that the basis of counter-propaganda (as well as propaganda) is the communication process, its structural elements are determined.
COMMENTARY ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SCIENCE AND FAITH IN CHURCH TEACHING
Authors: Contreras Reyber Parra
Published: October 2021

The text analyzes the relationship between Science and Faith in the Magisterium of the Catholic Church. The analysis is based on the position of the Vatican Councils I and II about the importance of Faith and Reason for man, in his search for truth; simultaneously, the orientations of popes Leo XIII and John Paul II were taken into account, in their Encyclicals Aeterni Patris and Fides et Ratio, respectively; some speeches by Popes Paul VI, Benedict XVI and Francis before the Pontifical Academy of Sciences were also analyzed. The Church has sought from the First Vatican Council to the present to bring, harmonize and complement the relationship between Faith and Reason; its interest is not limited to promoting scientific research; it also aspires that knowledge be ordered to the welfare of the human being, and the horizon of faith is recognized in the search for truth.
Economic impact and epidemiological aspects of subclinical mastitis and caprine arthritis-encephalitis in the semiarid northeastern region of Brazil
Authors: Souza Bruna Crislane da Silva , Araújo Renata de Moraes Peixoto , Noguiera Daniel Maia , Lima João Ricardo Ferreira de , Costa Mateus Matiuzzi da , Peixoto Rodolfo de Moraes
Published: October 2021

Dairy activity in the semi-arid region has gained prominence due to its profit potential; however, there are still sanitary problems that result in significant economic impact. Thus, this study aimed to assess the economic impact and to conduct an epidemiological study of caprine arthritis-encephalitis (CAE) and subclinical mastitis in dairy goat herds of the semi-arid northeastern region of Brazil. The study proceeded with the collection of blood (n = 351) and milk samples (n = 321) from 15 rural properties with up to 50 animals, risk factor assessment, economic profile analysis, and georeferencing of the properties. The blood serum obtained was subjected to the AGID test. The milk samples were cultured on blood agar, and the reading was performed 24 hours after incubation. Overall, 3.4% of the animals were seropositive for CAE, and 15.8% were diagnosed with subclinical mastitis. 71.95% of the positive animals belonged to properties with a semi-intensive rearing system, weekly cleaning of the facilities, and no pre- or post-dipping. Subclinical mastitis caused by the main agent Staphylococcus spp. was associated with the breed type of the animals, highlighting two risk factors: purebred animals (OR = 12.52) and the milking performed close the soil (OR = 18.07). A reduction of up to 35.34% was observed in the income of dairy properties, constituting a considerable economic impact. Due to these sanitary problems, the economic impact demonstrates the need for a sanitary management program focused on these infirmities.
Antitumor Activity of Zinc Nanoparticles Synthesized with Berberine on Human Epithelial
Colorectal Adenocarcinoma (Caco-2) Cells through Acting on Cox-2/NF-kB
and p53 Pathways
Authors: Othman Mohamed S. , Al-Bagawi Amal H. , Obeidat Sofian T. , Fareid Mohamed A. , Habotta Ola A. , Moneim Ahmed E. Abdel
Published: October 2021

Background:

Drawbacks and side effects of currently available therapies to colorectal cancer (CRC) have
compelled researchers to search for new therapeutic strategies.

Objective:

This study was designed to investigate the effects of zinc nanoparticles biosynthesized with berberine
(ZnNPs-BER) on Caco-2 cells compared to 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) and explore the possible underlying pathways.

Methods:

Caco-2 and Vero cells were treated with 5-FU, BER, or ZnNPs-BER for 24 h. Cell viability was measured
by MTT assay. Oxidative stress and apoptotic markers and cell cycle were determined. Additionally, Cox-2 and NF-kB
levels were also measured.

Results:

The IC50 values of 5-FU, BER, and ZnNPs-BER on Caco-2 cells were found to be 34.65 μM, 19.86 μg/ml
and 10.49 μg/ml, respectively by MTT assay. The IC50 value for 5-FU in Vero cells was 21.7 μg/ml, however, BER
and BER-ZnNPs treatment showed non-toxic effects on the Vero cells. Further, ZnNPs-BER exerted significant induction
of ROS besides exhaustion of the antioxidant capacity of tumor cells indicated by a decline in GSH and elevated
NO and MDA contents. Marked increments in levels of Bax and caspase-3 were detected together with declines in Bcl-
2 levels in Caco-2 cells subjected to BER-ZnNPs therapy. On the molecular basis, upregulation in mRNA levels of
pro-apoptotic genes (Bax, caspase-3, and tumor suppressor gene p53) along with downregulation in the anti-apoptotic
gene (Bcl-2) were observed in ZnNPs-BER treated Caco-2 cells. Furthermore, ZnNPs-BER showed more pronounced
effects on apoptosis increased cell percentage in the S and subG1 phases. In addition, green synthesis of ZnNPs with
BER showed notable induction of Cox2 and NF-kB in Caco-2 cells.

Conclusion:

Therefore, the antitumor potential of ZnNPs-BER in colon cancer cells may be endorsed for induction of
oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptotic changes in tumor cells. Our study documents the therapeutic potential of
Zn nanoparticles conjugated with BER, which may be a new option for combined chemotherapy.
Los libros blancos en Suramérica: un libro blanco en Colombia
Authors: Quintero Cordero Sara Patricia
Published: October 2021

El objetivo de este artículo es analizar el Libro blanco de defensa nacional de Brasil, la forma como ha evolucionado el concepto de seguridad y cómo puede ser aplicado en Colombia. El trabajo consiste en un análisis crítico conceptual centrado en la observación de ciertas variables, como la definición de seguridad, los sectores de seguridad, qué tipo de amenazas se van a enfrentar y, especialmente, el alcance y la importancia de las Fuerzas Militares. La elaboración de un nuevo libro blanco de defensa nacional hace necesario estudiar el Estado brasileño y la región, de tal manera que sea posible visualizar los probables cambios que pueden afectar la política de defensa colombiana y sus aspectos fundamentales. De esta manera se concluye que el libro blanco de Brasil es una herramienta útil para extraer elementos de diálogo que permitan un trabajo regional frente a las nuevas amenazas en los países y sus vecinos, particularmente en Colombia.
Energía eólica, una alternativa ambientalmente sostenible desde el Ejército Nacional de Colombia
Authors: Amezquita Pardo Luis Gabriel , Cepeda Jiménez Jorge Eduardo
Published: October 2021

La matriz energética en Colombia está cubierta en más de un 70% por el uso de hidroeléctricas; sin embargo, estos sistemas, así como la energía térmica, presentan desventajas económicas, sociales y ambientales que hacen necesaria la búsqueda de nuevas alternativas a partir de fuentes no convencionales mediante el uso de recursos renovables como el viento. A partir de este hecho, investigaciones acerca de las bases técnicas, científicas, tecnológicas y geográficas han evidenciado que la energía eólica se constituye en una alternativa promisoria y sostenible para cubrir gran parte de los requerimientos energéticos de todo el país. En ese orden de ideas, el Ejército Nacional de Colombia se convierte en un actor territorial imprescindible para la implementación de pilotos en puntos estratégicos de la geografía colombiana.
Ядерное магнитное экранирование в многозарядных ионах
Authors: Волчкова А.М. , Глазов Д.А. , Шабаев В.М.
Published: October 2021

The nuclear magnetic shielding is considered within the fully relativistic approach for the ground state of H-, Li-, and B-like ions in the range Z=32-92. The interelectronic interaction is evaluated to the first order of the perturbation theory in Li- and B-like ions. The calculations are based on the finite-field method. The numerical solution of the Dirac equation with the magnetic-field and hyperfine interactions included within the dual-kinetic-balance method is employed. The nuclear magnetic shielding constant is an important ingredient for accurate determination of the nuclear magnetic moments from the high-precision g-factor measurements.
Restoration of erectile function in men after prostate surgery in the immediate postoperative period: the needs assessment for patients and their partners to maintain sexual relations
Authors: Anisimov N. V. , Kulchavenya E. V. , Kholtobin D. P.
Published: October 2021

Introduction. Despite the advances in the modern pharmacopoeia, a significant place is given to surgical methods of treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer (PCa). In the postoperative period in men, sexual function usually deteriorates.

Purpose of the study. To study the needs of men after prostate surgery and their sexual partners in restoring their previous sexual life.

Materials and methods. The pilot open-label prospective randomized non-comparative study included 50 patients in the age range of 53 – 74 years (average 58.3 years). All patients were consistently admitted and operated on at the “Avicenna” Medical Centre, Ltd. (Novosibirsk) from January to December 2020. Upon admission, all patients completed the International Index of Erectile Function (ICEF) questionnaire; one month later, this questionnaire was re-completed, supplemented with five questions.

Results. Twenty-one patients were admitted with a diagnosis of PCa T1c – T2N0M0, all of them underwent laparoscopic prostatectomy with lymphadenectomy. Twenty-nine patients were operated on for BPH. They underwent transurethral resection with a bipolar resectoscope. Only 6 patients (12%) had no comorbidities. Surgical intervention worsened sexual function in all patients, while in men aged 50 – 59 years, the IIEF score decreased by 61.0%, at the age of 60 – 69 years by 39.0%, in patients over 70 years old by 55.2%. Eighteen (36.0%) patients showed interest in restoring sexual function. Thirty-two (64%) patients were against the continuation of sexual activity with the following motivation: 19 (59.4%) – lack of desire for a sexual partner, 8 (25.0%) – lack of desire of the patient himself, 5 (15.6%) – unwillingness to re-operated. Nineteen women out of 36 stable couples (52.8%) objected to the restoration of the sexual function of their sexual partners.

Conclusion. Prostate surgery affects male sexual function more severely in younger patients. Thirty-two patients after surgery refused to restore sexual activity, in more than half of cases (59.4%) due to the unwillingness of the sexual partner to resume sexual relations.
Burst wave lithotripsy – the new evolution stage of extracorporeal shock-wave lithotripsy
Authors: Gadzhiev N. K. , Gorelov D. S. , Ivanov A. O. , Semenyakin I. V. , Malikiev I. E. , Obidnyak V. M. , Kryuchkovenko Ya. I. , Petrov S. B. , Grigoriev V. E.
Published: October 2021

Urolithiasis is currently one of the most urgent problems in the world. Every eleventh worldwide inhabitant suffers from this disease. Previously, the only way to get rid of kidney stones and the urinary tract was open surgery, which was characterized by high trauma. Over the past decades, the development of technologies has made a significant contribution to the development of new methods of urolithiasis treatment. One of these methods is extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL). The first lithotripter Dornier HM-1 was produced in 1980. Subsequent models have got many changes, both in terms of ergonomics and power. The researchers noticed that the efficiency of stone crushing in the Dornier HM-1 lithotripter was higher than in newer models since the lower power provided the less intensive formation of cavitation bubbles that prevent the effective transit of subsequent waves through the stone. Nowadays, a new method of remote stone crushing is being developed based on low-amplitude high-frequency technology combined with ultrasonic propulsion, which is the main difference from traditional shock-wave lithotripters. The new technology of stone crushing is called «burst wave lithotripsy» (BWL). Currently, the data have been obtained that this method is more effective in terms of crushing quality and less traumatic.
Optimizing the lithotripsy timing after drainage of the upper urinary tract in patients with urolithiasis and obstructive uropathy
Authors: Khotko A. I. , Khotko D. N. , Popkov V. M. , Tarasenk A. I.
Published: October 2021

Introduction. Timely unresolved upper urinary tract (UUT) obstruction in patients with infection can cause severe complications, such as sepsis, pyonephrosis and even death. There are no clear recommendations regarding the methods and timing of drainage. At the same time, this issue is still the subject of discussion in publications of recent years.

Purpose of the study. To optimize the timing of lithotripsy after drainage of the UUT in patients with urolithiasis and obstructive uropathy (OU).

Materials and methods. At the first stage, 90 patients with OU caused by the stone of the ureteropelvic junction underwent drainage of the UUT using a percutaneous nephrostomy. Subsequently, percutaneous nephrolithotripsy (PNLT) was performed at various times after drainage. The level of inflammatory markers (IL-8) and profibrotic factor (MCP-1) in the urine was determined. The calculated concentrations of urinary biomarkers were normalized by the level of urinary creatinine. Urine sampling for the analysis was carried out during and after the PCN placement (nephrostomy urine) 7 days later, and then once weekly before surgery. The coefficient K was calculated using a patented formula to evaluate the process of kidney remodeling. Urine sampling was performed for culture to determine the bacterial spectrum and antibiotic sensitivity.

Results. The values of K ≤ 1.85 were observed in 11 patients of the group with OU (12.2%), K > 1.85 in 79 (87.8%) by day 21. The values of K ≤ 1.85 were achieved in 70 patients (88.6%) by day 28 and 4 patients (80.0%) by day 35. PNLT was performed on 21 days in patients with K ≤ 1.85 (11 patients), no complications were noted in the postoperative period., PNLT was performed in patients with K ≤ 1.85 (70 patients) by day 28, exacerbation of pyelonephritis and the development of chronic kidney disease were not noted. Six patients with values of K ˃ 1.85 underwent PNLT by day 28. In the postoperative period, all patients had an exacerbation of calculous pyelonephritis, 50% had a decrease in glomerular filtration rate within 3 months after surgery. The bacteria in urine were detected in 55 (61.0%) patients. Escherichia coli (63.0%), Proteus mirabilis (18.0%), Enterococcus faecalis (14.5%), Streptococcus haemolyticus (2.5%) were identified most often.

Conclusion. The use of the developed remodeling index allows optimizing the surgery timing and minimizing the development of complications during the postoperative period. The presence of bacteria is associated with a long process of renal parenchymal remodeling.
Extracorporeal ultrasound exposure by the low-frequency acoustic amplitude-modulated signal on a ureteral stent for preventing its incrustation: experimental determination of optimal application points
Authors: Tsukanov A. Yu. , Akhmetov D. S. , Novikov A. A. , Negrov N. A. , Putintseva A. R. , Semikina S. P.
Published: October 2021

Introduction. Incrustation and biofilms formation on the surface of ureteral stents are still the most significant complications of internal drainage of the upper urinary tract. There are much researchers conducted to combat these complications. The lack of a solution to this problem affects the ultimate results of treatment and economic losses. The issue of impact by physical methods on the ureteral stent, particularly the use of extracorporeal ultrasound acoustic exposure remains, promising and poorly covered.

Purpose of the study. To determine the optimal application points of extracorporeal acoustic exposure by the low-frequency ultrasonic amplitude-modulated signal on a ureteral stent in an experiment.

Materials and methods. The original device was designed. The main principle of its operation is the generation of an amplitude-modulated ultrasonic signal in two modes: pulsed and permanent. A sexually mature mongrel dog was an experimental animal. The ureteral stent was placed by laparotomy and cystotomy. Intraoperatively, the emitter of the developed device was applied to the skin of the animal, according to the previously indicated topographic and anatomical landmarks. At the same time, an ultrasonic wave noise analyzer was applied through the laparotomy wound to the appropriate level of the ureter. Measurements of ultrasound intensity indicators were performed three times in two operating modes of the device.

Results. Pulsed mode: for the ureteral upper third, the highest ultrasonic intensity (123.67 dB) was achieved along the posterior axillary line. For the ureteral middle third, the best ultrasound intensity (115 dB) was obtained by the posterior axillary line. For the ureteral lower third, the highest ultrasound intensity (113.67 dB) was noted along the middle axillary line.

Permanent mode: the best ultrasonic intensity in the projection of the ureteral upper, middle, and lower thirds was achieved along the posterior axillary line and was 118.67 dB, 117 dB and 116.67 dB, accordingly. However, there was an excessive heat effect, manifested by hyperemia and hyperthermia of the animal's skin, fascicular muscle contractions during the instrument functioned in the permanent mode, which can potentially lead to thermal burns and intolerance to the procedure.

Conclusion. The pulsed mode of the device function is most safe. The optimal application points of the instrument emitter for the ureteral upper and middle thirds is the posterior axillary line, and for the ureteral lower third is the middle axillary line.
Digital SARS-CoV-2 Detection Among Hospital Employees: Participatory Surveillance Study
Authors: Leal-Neto Onicio , Egger Thomas , Schlegel Matthias , Flury Domenica , Sumer Johannes , Albrich Werner , Babouee Flury Baharak , Kuster Stefan , Vernazza Pietro , Kahlert Christian , Kohler Philipp
Published: October 2021

Background

The implementation of novel techniques as a complement to traditional disease surveillance systems represents an additional opportunity for rapid analysis.

Objective

The objective of this work is to describe a web-based participatory surveillance strategy among health care workers (HCWs) in two Swiss hospitals during the first wave of COVID-19.

Methods

A prospective cohort of HCWs was recruited in March 2020 at the Cantonal Hospital of St. Gallen and the Eastern Switzerland Children’s Hospital. For data analysis, we used a combination of the following techniques: locally estimated scatterplot smoothing (LOESS) regression, Spearman correlation, anomaly detection, and random forest.

Results

From March 23 to August 23, 2020, a total of 127,684 SMS text messages were sent, generating 90,414 valid reports among 1004 participants, achieving a weekly average of 4.5 (SD 1.9) reports per user. The symptom showing the strongest correlation with a positive polymerase chain reaction test result was loss of taste. Symptoms like red eyes or a runny nose were negatively associated with a positive test. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve showed favorable performance of the classification tree, with an accuracy of 88% for the training data and 89% for the test data. Nevertheless, while the prediction matrix showed good specificity (80.0%), sensitivity was low (10.6%).

Conclusions

Loss of taste was the symptom that was most aligned with COVID-19 activity at the population level. At the individual level—using machine learning–based random forest classification—reporting loss of taste and limb/muscle pain as well as the absence of runny nose and red eyes were the best predictors of COVID-19.
Medical Data Mining Course Development in Postgraduate Medical Education: Web-Based Survey and Case Study (Preprint)
Authors: Yang Lin , Zheng Si , Xu Xiaowei , Sun Yueping , Wang Xuwen , Li Jiao
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Medical postgraduates’ demand for data capabilities is growing, as biomedical research becomes more data driven, integrative, and computational. In the context of the application of big data in health and medicine, the integration of data mining skills into postgraduate medical education becomes important.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to demonstrate the design and implementation of a medical data mining course for medical postgraduates with diverse backgrounds in a medical school.

METHODS

We developed a medical data mining course called “Practical Techniques of Medical Data Mining” for postgraduate medical education and taught the course online at Peking Union Medical College (PUMC). To identify the background knowledge, programming skills, and expectations of targeted learners, we conducted a web-based questionnaire survey. After determining the instructional methods to be used in the course, three technical platforms—Rain Classroom, Tencent Meeting, and WeChat—were chosen for online teaching. A medical data mining platform called Medical Data Mining - R Programming Hub (MedHub) was developed for self-learning, which could support the development and comprehensive testing of data mining algorithms. Finally, we carried out a postcourse survey and a case study to demonstrate that our online course could accommodate a diverse group of medical students with a wide range of academic backgrounds and programming experience.

RESULTS

In total, 200 postgraduates from 30 disciplines participated in the precourse survey. Based on the analysis of students’ characteristics and expectations, we designed an optimized course structured into nine logical teaching units (one 4-hour unit per week for 9 weeks). The course covered basic knowledge of R programming, machine learning models, clinical data mining, and omics data mining, among other topics, as well as diversified health care analysis scenarios. Finally, this 9-week course was successfully implemented in an online format from May to July in the spring semester of 2020 at PUMC. A total of 6 faculty members and 317 students participated in the course. Postcourse survey data showed that our course was considered to be very practical (83/83, 100% indicated “very positive” or “positive”), and MedHub received the best feedback, both in function (80/83, 96% chose “satisfied”) and teaching effect (80/83, 96% chose “satisfied”). The case study showed that our course was able to fill the gap between student expectations and learning outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed content for a data mining course, with online instructional methods to accommodate the diversified characteristics of students. Our optimized course could improve the data mining skills of medical students with a wide range of academic backgrounds and programming experience.
Characteristics of Participants and Nonparticipants in a Blended Internet-Based Physical Activity Trial for Breast and Prostate Cancer Survivors: Cross-sectional Study (Preprint)
Authors: vd Wiel Hester J , Stuiver Martijn M , May Anne M , van Grinsven Susan , Benink Marlou F A , Aaronson Neil K , Oldenburg Hester S A , van der Poel Henk G , van Harten Wim H , Groen Wim G
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

As the number of cancer survivors is increasing, it is important to be able to offer exercise and physical activity (PA)–promoting interventions that are both effective and reasonably accessible. Internet-based interventions are typically less expensive and more accessible alternatives to on-site supervised interventions. Currently, little is known about the characteristics of nonparticipants in PA promotion trials in the cancer survivorship setting, both in general and specifically in trials using internet-supported interventions.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to gain insight into the characteristics associated with nonparticipation in a blended internet-based supported intervention trial to promote PA.

METHODS

Breast and prostate cancer survivors, 3-36 months after primary curative treatment, were invited to participate in the PABLO trial; this trial compared an internet-based intervention to enhance PA levels, with or without additional support from a physical therapist, to usual care. Participants and nonparticipants were asked to complete a comprehensive questionnaire assessing sociodemographics, fatigue, and health-related quality of life. Baseline data for participants and nonparticipants were compared using the independent Student t test and chi-square test.

RESULTS

The inclusion rate in the trial was 11.03% (137/1242). Of the nonparticipants, 13.95% (154/1104) completed the questionnaire. Participants were more highly educated (P=.04), had a paid job less often (P=.03), and were on sick leave more often (P=.03). They reported less PA per week, both moderate (P=.03) and vigorous (P<.01), before diagnosis and during leisure time (P<.01, effect size [ES]=0.44). They reported a significantly lower stage of change (P≤.01), lower self-efficacy (P<.01, ES=0.61), perceived barriers to PA (P<.01, ES=0.54), and more general fatigue (P<.01, ES=0.60). Participants reported lower health-related quality of life for most domains (ES ranging from 0.34 for mental health to 0.48 for social functioning). No significant differences were found for other sociodemographics, mood state, or attitudes toward or perceived social support for PA.

CONCLUSIONS

The participants who self-selected for trial participation reported lower PA levels before diagnosis and a stronger need for support compared with nonparticipants. The trial thus included those patients who might benefit the most from internet-based supportive PA interventions.

CLINICALTRIAL

Netherlands trial register NTR6911; https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/6733
Validation of Fitbit Charge 2 Sleep and Heart Rate Estimates Against Polysomnographic Measures in Shift Workers: Naturalistic Study (Preprint)
Authors: Stucky Benjamin , Clark Ian , Azza Yasmine , Karlen Walter , Achermann Peter , Kleim Birgit , Landolt Hans-Peter
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Multisensor fitness trackers offer the ability to longitudinally estimate sleep quality in a home environment with the potential to outperform traditional actigraphy. To benefit from these new tools for objectively assessing sleep for clinical and research purposes, multisensor wearable devices require careful validation against the gold standard of sleep polysomnography (PSG). Naturalistic studies favor validation.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to validate the Fitbit Charge 2 against portable home PSG in a shift-work population composed of 59 first responder police officers and paramedics undergoing shift work.

METHODS

A reliable comparison between the two measurements was ensured through the data-driven alignment of a PSG and Fitbit time series that was recorded at night. Epoch-by-epoch analyses and Bland-Altman plots were used to assess sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, the Matthews correlation coefficient, bias, and limits of agreement.

RESULTS

Sleep onset and offset, total sleep time, and the durations of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and non–rapid-eye movement sleep stages N1+N2 and N3 displayed unbiased estimates with nonnegligible limits of agreement. In contrast, the proprietary Fitbit algorithm overestimated REM sleep latency by 29.4 minutes and wakefulness after sleep onset (WASO) by 37.1 minutes. Epoch-by-epoch analyses indicated better specificity than sensitivity, with higher accuracies for WASO (0.82) and REM sleep (0.86) than those for N1+N2 (0.55) and N3 (0.78) sleep. Fitbit heart rate (HR) displayed a small underestimation of 0.9 beats per minute (bpm) and a limited capability to capture sudden HR changes because of the lower time resolution compared to that of PSG. The underestimation was smaller in N2, N3, and REM sleep (0.6-0.7 bpm) than in N1 sleep (1.2 bpm) and wakefulness (1.9 bpm), indicating a state-specific bias. Finally, Fitbit suggested a distribution of all sleep episode durations that was different from that derived from PSG and showed nonbiological discontinuities, indicating the potential limitations of the staging algorithm.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that by following careful data processing processes, the Fitbit Charge 2 can provide reasonably accurate mean values of sleep and HR estimates in shift workers under naturalistic conditions. Nevertheless, the generally wide limits of agreement hamper the precision of quantifying individual sleep episodes. The value of this consumer-grade multisensor wearable in terms of tackling clinical and research questions could be enhanced with open-source algorithms, raw data access, and the ability to blind participants to their own sleep data.
Detecting Usability and User Experience Issues in Stroke Caregiving Apps: An Analysis of User Reviews (Preprint)
Authors: Lobo Elton , Abdelrazek Mohamed , Frølich Anne , Rasmussen Lene Juel , Livingston Patricia M. , Islam Sheikh Mohammed Shariful , Kensing Finn , Grundy John
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND

Stroke caregivers often experience negative impacts when caring for a person living with a stroke. Technologically based interventions such as mHealth apps have demonstrated potential in supporting the caregivers during the recovery trajectory. Hence, there is an increase in apps in popular app stores, with a few apps addressing the healthcare needs of stroke caregivers. Since most of these apps were published without explanation of their design and evaluation processes, it is necessary to identify the usability and user experience issues to help app developers and researchers to understand the factors that affect long-term adherence and usage in stroke caregiving technology.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine the usability and user experience issues in commercially available mHealth apps from the user reviews published within the app store to help researchers and developers understand the factors that may affect long-term adherence and usage.

METHODS

User reviews were extracted from the previously identified 47 apps that support stroke caregiving needs using a python-scraper for both app stores (i.e. Google Play Store and Apple App Store). The reviews were pre-processed to (i) clean the dataset and ensure unicode normalization, (ii) remove stop words and (iii) group words together with similar meanings. The pre-processed reviews were filtered using sentiment analysis to exclude positive and non-English reviews. The final corpus was classified based on usability and user experience dimensions to highlight issues within the app.

RESULTS

Of 1,385,337 user reviews, only 162,095 were extracted due to the limitations in the app store. After filtration based on the sentiment analysis, 15,818 reviews were included in the study and were filtered based on the usability and user experience dimensions. Findings from the usability and user experience dimensions highlight critical errors/effectiveness, efficiency and support that contribute to decreased satisfaction, affect and emotion and frustration in using the app.

CONCLUSIONS

Commercially available mHealth apps consist of several usability and user experience issues due to their inability to understand the methods to address the healthcare needs of the caregivers. App developers need to consider participatory design approaches to promote user participation in design. This might ensure better understanding of the user needs and methods to support these needs; therefore, limiting any issues and ensuring continued use.