bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-regulated learning support in technology enhanced learning environments: A reliability analysis of the SRL-S rubric
Authors: Radovic Slavisa , Seidel Niels
Published: September 2024

Advanced learning technologies have become a focal point in recent educational research, holding the promise of enhancing students' self-regulated learning (SRL) by facilitating various processes of planning, monitoring, performing, and reflecting upon learning experiences. However, concerns have arisen regarding the efficacy and design of technologies, the spectrum of possibilities for SRL support, and too ambiguous claims associated with these technologies. To address these uncertainties and to provide a platform for generating the more empirical evidence, Self-Regulated Learning Support (SRL-S) rubric was developed to facilitate the assessment of SRL support in technology-enhanced learning environments. It is grounded in established educational theory and proven empirical research results. This article presents a study that extends the application of the rubric to establish its reliability and validity, filling a gap in prior research. First, content, criterion-related, and construct validation were performed through international and interdisciplinary experts’ reviews. Subsequently, inter-rater and intra-rater reliability were assessed using Intraclass Correlation Coefficients and Cohens Kappa tests. The outcomes of these analysis demonstrated that the SRL-S is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing the levels of SRL support within learning environments. Additional implications for further research to support self-regulated learning are discussed.
Targeting SERCA2 in Anti-Tumor Drug Discovery
Authors: Song Wanqian , Zhang Qiuju , Cao Zhiyong , Jing Guo , Zhan Tiancheng , Yuan Yongkang , Kang Ning , Zhang Qiang
Published: September 2024

SERCA2, a P-type ATPase located on the endoplasmic reticulum of cells, plays an important
role in maintaining calcium balance within cells by transporting calcium from the cytoplasm
to the endoplasmic reticulum against its concentration gradient. A multitude of studies have
demonstrated that the expression of SERCA2 is abnormal in a wide variety of tumor cells. Consequently,
research exploring compounds that target SERCA2 may offer a promising avenue for the
development of novel anti-tumor drugs. This review has summarized the anti-tumor compounds
targeting SERCA2, including thapsigargin, dihydroartemisinin, curcumin, galangin, etc. These
compounds interact with SERCA2 on the endoplasmic reticulum membrane, disrupting intracellular
calcium ion homeostasis, leading to tumor cell apoptosis, autophagy and cell cycle arrest, ultimately
producing anti-tumor effects. Additionally, several potential research directions for compounds
targeting SERCA2 as clinical anti-cancer drugs have been proposed in the review. In summary,
SERCA2 is a promising anti-tumor target for drug discovery and development.
Approximate and Exact Solution of Linear and Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation using Sawi Transform coupled with Homotopy Perturbation Method
Authors: Olubanwo Oludapo O. , Adepoju Julius , Ajani Abiodun Sufiat , Idowu Senayon Sunday , Ifeyemi Opeyemi
Published: September 2024

This study presents an approximate solution using the Sawi Transform Method for the Schrödinger
equation. Four problems were considered to illustrate the Sawi Transform Homotopy perturbation
Method’s (STHPM) effectiveness and capabilities. The equation below is subjected to the Sawi Transform
combined with Homotopy Perturbation Method (STHPM).
$i\frac{\partial}{\partial t}\\psi(z,t)+\Delta[\psi(z,t)]+N\psi(z,t)=0$
The results obtained are represented in a series of rapidly convergent terms.
Ring of Weight Enumerator of Integer
Authors: Azaliyah Syarifatul , Hamid Nur , Alghofari Abdul Rouf , Anam Syaiful
Published: September 2024

Invariant theory can be combined with coding theory to analyze the polynomial ring over its weight enumerator. For a certain class code, especially for self-dual doubly even code or type II code, the polynomials over its code satisfy the invarian condition. In this paper, we will  show that the ring of the weight enumerator over integer of self-dual doubly even code $d_{48}^+$ cannot be ganerated by the weight enumerator of self-dual doubly even code with code length n=8, 16, 24, 32 and 40.
Green Hydrothermal Synthesis of Ni(II)-MOF with Terephthalate-Pyrazine Mixed Ligands at Mild Condition
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Brawijaya University, Malang, Indonesia, Finisia Yenni , Tjahjanto Rachmat Triandi ,   Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Brawijaya University, Malang, Indonesia, Prananto Yuniar Ponco ,   Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Brawijaya University, Malang, Indonesia
Published: September 2024

Ni(II) with mixed ligand of terephthalate-pyrazine (NiTP) metal complex can form metal-organic framework (MOF) material that offer many potential applications, such as adsorbent and/or photocatalyst for dye-based wastewater treatment. Production of the NiTP by hydrothermal method in a larger scale may economically unfavorable due to it requires high temperature and long reaction time. Green synthesis of NiTP by hydrothermal method using lower temperature and shorter reaction time was investigated in this study. The synthesis was done in Ni(II):T:P mol ratio of 1:1:4 at 150 ᵒC for 10 hours. The NiTP complex was characterized by infrared spectroscopy and powder-XRD. Crystallinity degree, thermal stability, band gap energy, and pore volume of the NiTP complex were compared to that of Ni(II)-terephthalate (NiT) complex, which was also made using the same condition, to study the effect of pyrazine addition on the properties of the NiTP. This study finds that the green microcrystalline NiTP complex was successfully obtained from mild reaction condition in good yield and identical to known MOF compound of [Ni(μ3-ter)(μ2-pyr)]n.(ter = terephthalate; pyr = pyrazine). Although the synthesized NiTP complex has lower crystallinity degree compared to the NiT complex, but it has better thermal stability, lower band gap energy, and bigger pore volume; therefore, it is possible to be further developed as adsorbent and/or photocatalyst for wastewater treatment.
A Mobile Gaming App to Train Teenage Mothers on Appropriate Child Feeding Practices: Development and Validation Study
Authors: Sosanya Mercy Eloho , Samuel Folake Olukemi , Bashir Sadia , Omoera Victoria Osariemen , Freeland-Graves Jeanne H
Published: September 2024

Background

Undernutrition is an underlying factor in nearly 50% of 1 million estimated annual deaths among Nigerian children aged <5 years. Inappropriate maternal infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices are basic contributors to child undernutrition. Teenage motherhood exacerbates the problem of inadequate child feeding. One possible intervention method to improve IYCF knowledge and practices of teenage mothers is the use of mobile gaming technologies. Despite extreme poverty in low- and middle-income countries, a ubiquity of mobile phone networks exists.

Objective

This study aims to develop and validate a mobile gaming app, called BabyThrive, to train Nigerian teenage mothers on appropriate IYCF practices.

Methods

To identify gaps in current IYCF practices in northern Nigeria, we conducted an extensive search of the literature and held 2 focus group interviews with 16 teenage mothers with low-income status. An initial app content design was then created, and content validity was established by 10 nutrition experts. Next, we developed an app prototype, which was assessed for quality by 7 nutrition and mobile gaming experts and evaluated for usability by 90 teenage mothers from rural areas in Abuja, the country’s capital. The final app, BabyThrive, is a 2D mobile game that is fully functional offline and available in English as well as Hausa, which is commonly spoken in northern Nigeria. The efficacy of the BabyThrive app was assessed using IYCF knowledge scores obtained from the administration of the validated Teen Moms Child Feeding Questionnaire for Sub-Saharan Africa. Construct validity was established via crossover design by comparing the total IYCF knowledge scores of the teenage mothers obtained after a verbal training program and BabyThrive app use.

Results

Large proportions of the study participants were married (53/90, 59%) and had no personal income (63/90, 70%). The mean quality rating for the BabyThrive app was 4.3 (SD 0.39) out of 5.0. High levels (>80%) of usability and user satisfaction were documented. Knowledge of exclusive breastfeeding (P<.001) and total knowledge scores (P=.002) were significantly higher in the BabyThrive group than in the verbal training group. The IYCF knowledge scores obtained from both groups showed coherence, with a statistically significant Spearman correlation coefficient of 0.50 (P<.001).

Conclusions

This research developed and validated a novel, offline mobile gaming app. It will be an easy, effective, and acceptable method to disseminate critical knowledge on IYCF practices to teenage mothers in rural Nigeria.
Identifying Potential Factors Associated With Racial Disparities in COVID-19 Outcomes: Retrospective Cohort Study Using Machine Learning on Real-World Data
Authors: Dasa Osama , Bai Chen , Sajdeya Ruba , Kimmel Stephen E , Pepine Carl J , Gurka J Matthew J , Laubenbacher Reinhard , Pearson Thomas A , Mardini Mamoun T
Published: September 2024

Background

Racial disparities in COVID-19 incidence and outcomes have been widely reported. Non-Hispanic Black patients endured worse outcomes disproportionately compared with non-Hispanic White patients, but the epidemiological basis for these observations was complex and multifaceted.

Objective

This study aimed to elucidate the potential reasons behind the worse outcomes of COVID-19 experienced by non-Hispanic Black patients compared with non-Hispanic White patients and how these variables interact using an explainable machine learning approach.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, we examined 28,943 laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 cases from the OneFlorida Research Consortium’s data trust of health care recipients in Florida through April 28, 2021. We assessed the prevalence of pre-existing comorbid conditions, geo-socioeconomic factors, and health outcomes in the structured electronic health records of COVID-19 cases. The primary outcome was a composite of hospitalization, intensive care unit admission, and mortality at index admission. We developed and validated a machine learning model using Extreme Gradient Boosting to evaluate predictors of worse outcomes of COVID-19 and rank them by importance.

Results

Compared to non-Hispanic White patients, non-Hispanic Blacks patients were younger, more likely to be uninsured, had a higher prevalence of emergency department and inpatient visits, and were in regions with higher area deprivation index rankings and pollutant concentrations. Non-Hispanic Black patients had the highest burden of comorbidities and rates of the primary outcome. Age was a key predictor in all models, ranking highest in non-Hispanic White patients. However, for non-Hispanic Black patients, congestive heart failure was a primary predictor. Other variables, such as food environment measures and air pollution indicators, also ranked high. By consolidating comorbidities into the Elixhauser Comorbidity Index, this became the top predictor, providing a comprehensive risk measure.

Conclusions

The study reveals that individual and geo-socioeconomic factors significantly influence the outcomes of COVID-19. It also highlights varying risk profiles among different racial groups. While these findings suggest potential disparities, further causal inference and statistical testing are needed to fully substantiate these observations. Recognizing these relationships is vital for creating effective, tailored interventions that reduce disparities and enhance health outcomes across all racial and socioeconomic groups.
Identifying Gravity-Related Artifacts on Ballistocardiography Signals by Comparing Weightlessness and Normal Gravity Recordings (ARTIFACTS): Protocol for an Observational Study (Preprint)
Authors: Albrecht Urs-Vito , Mielitz Annabelle , Rahman Kazi Mohammad Abidur , Kulau Ulf
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Modern ballistocardiography (BCG) and seismocardiography (SCG) use acceleration sensors to measure oscillating recoil movements of the body caused by the heartbeat and blood flow, which are transmitted to the body surface. Acceleration artifacts occur through intrinsic sensor roll, pitch, and yaw movements, assessed by the angular velocities of the respective sensor, during measurements that bias the signal interpretation.

OBJECTIVE

This observational study aims to generate hypotheses on the detection and elimination of acceleration artifacts due to the intrinsic rotation of accelerometers and their differentiation from heart-induced sensor accelerations.

METHODS

Multimodal data from 4 healthy participants (3 male and 1 female) using BCG-SCG and an electrocardiogram will be collected and serve as a basis for signal characterization, model modulation, and location vector derivation under parabolic flight conditions from µg to 1.8g. The data will be obtained during a parabolic flight campaign (3 times 30 parabolas) between September 24 and July 25 (depending on the flight schedule). To detect the described acceleration artifacts, accelerometers and gyroscopes (6-degree-of-freedom sensors) will be used for measuring acceleration and angular velocities attributed to intrinsic sensor rotation. Changes in acceleration and angular velocities will be explored by conducting descriptive data analysis of resting participants sitting upright in varying gravitational states.

RESULTS

A multimodal data set will serve as a basis for research into a noninvasive and gentle method of BCG-SCG with the aid of low-noise and synchronous 3D gyroscopes and 3D acceleration sensors. Hypotheses will be generated related to detecting and eliminating acceleration artifacts due to the intrinsic rotation of accelerometers and gyroscopes (6-degree-of-freedom sensors) and their differentiation from heart-induced sensor accelerations. Data will be collected entirely and exclusively during the parabolic flights, taking place between September 2024 and July 2025. Thus, as of June 2024, no data have been collected yet. The data will be analyzed until December 2025. The results are expected to be published by June 2026.

CONCLUSIONS

The study will contribute to understanding artificial acceleration bias to signal readings. It will be a first approach for a detection and elimination method.

CLINICALTRIAL

Deutsches Register Klinische Studien DRKS00034402; https://drks.de/search/en/trial/DRKS00034402

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/63306
Can a Digital Health Exercise Program for Adult Scoliosis Reduce Intention for Spinal Surgery?: An Exploratory Cohort Study (Preprint)
Authors: Brown Marsalis Christian , Lin Christopher Quincy , Jin Christopher , Rohde Matthew , Rocos Brett , Belding Jonathan , Woods Barrett I , Ackerman Stacey J
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

Adult scoliosis (AS) is a prevalent condition estimated at 38%. Symptomatic AS is associated with substantial healthcare costs. The role of nonoperative interventions in the management of AS remains elusive. The National Scoliosis Clinic’s (NSC) Scoliosis Realignment Therapy (SRT) is a personalized digital health exercise program for the nonoperative management of AS.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was two-fold: (1) To evaluate the effect of the SRT program on users’ intention of having spinal fusion; and (2) From a US payer perspective, to estimate the annual cost savings per 100,000 beneficiaries by averting spinal surgery.

METHODS

Individuals were enrolled in the SRT study from October 1, 2023 to September 1, 2024. Participants completed an online survey about history of prior scoliosis surgery and intent of having surgery before and after use of SRT (on a 4-point Likert scale, where 1 = “No Intent for Surgery” and 4 = “High Intent for Surgery”). Intent for surgery before and after participation in SRT was compared using a non-parametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test for paired data. Annual cost savings per 100,000 beneficiaries by averting spinal fusions were estimated separately for commercial payers and Medicare using published literature and public data sources. Payer expenditures were inflation-adjusted to 2024 US dollars using the Hospital Services component of the Consumer Price Index.

RESULTS

In total, 62 NSC members were enrolled in the SRT study for an average of 17 weeks (SD 12). The mean age was 65.3 (SD 13.5) years and the majority were female (98%) and white (98%). Among the SRT users who did not have prior scoliosis surgery (N=56), 14% (8/56) reported a decrease in intent for surgery (that is, a lower Likert score) with use of SRT. The mean intent for surgery scores before compared to after SRT were 1.29 (SD 0.53) and 1.14 (SD 0.35), respectively (mean difference 0.15 [P=.006]). Participants with “No Intent for Surgery” pre- versus post-use of SRT (42/56 versus 48/56, respectively) corresponds to an absolute risk reduction (ARR) of 11% and a number needed to treat (NNT) of 9 to avert one spinal fusion. Among the six participants who transitioned to “No Intent” for spinal surgery with use of SRT, three were <65 and three were ≥65 years of age. Annual cost savings from averted spinal surgeries were estimated at US $415,000 per 100,000 commercially-insured beneficiaries and US $617,000 per 100,000 Medicare beneficiaries.

CONCLUSIONS

SRT is a personalized, scoliosis-specific digital health exercise program with the potential for averting 1 spinal surgery for every 9 participants, resulting in a substantial reduction in payer expenditures while improving quality of care for commercial payer and Medicare beneficiaries.

CLINICALTRIAL
A Review on Solar Powered Maize Dehusker cum Sheller for Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Shinde Ankita , Karale D. S. , Sahoo P. K.
Published: September 2024

Maize (Zea mays) in India ranks third in total production and productivity and fifth in total area. Since last one decade, maize cultivation area is continuously increasing to encounter the rising demand in the world. Shelling is one of the most important post harvesting operation which is used to separate the grains from ear heads and prepare its quality for the market. Maize grain harvesting consist of the dehusking operation for removal of outer cover and shelling operation for separations of grains from ear heads. This review aims to collate and present an overview of design, fabrication, and performance of a maize dehusker cum sheller consisting of feed hopper with a flow rate control device, dehusking unit, shelling unit, cleaning unit and power system. The performance of the machine was evaluated in terms of throughput capacity, dehusking efficiency, shelling efficiency, cleaning efficiency and mechanical damage. Solar power is ideally used in India due to location factor and also gives the benefit to the environment as renewable energy. Solar power operated maize dehusker cum sheller gives a significance in many rural locations of most developing countries were grid connected electricity is either unavailable or unreliable or too expensive so using of solar power is beneficial.
Relationships Between Kidney, Pelvic, and Heart (KPH) Fat and Beef Carcass Yield
Authors: Foraker Blake A. , Lawrence Ty E. , Mendizabal Andres , Woerner Dale R.
Published: September 2024

The contribution of kidney, pelvic, and heart (KPH) fat to predicting carcass yield in the official USDA Yield Grade equation has been questioned in the modern U.S. slaughter cattle population and has not been extensively studied. Many U.S. beef processors remove KPH fat at harvest to facilitate faster chilling and easier fabrication. The objective of this study was to understand the modern-day relationship of KPH fat to subprimal yield (SY). Fabrication data from carcasses (N = 816) evaluated across multiple studies in the last 15 y were summarized. SY, subprimal cutout value (SCO), and KPH percentage were adjusted to account for study effects. Values for SY, SCO, and KPH percentage were computed on a conventional (hot side weight [HSW] including KPH) and alternate (HSW without KPH) basis, and variance among these measures was tested. Relationships among HSW and carcass components, carcass components themselves, and conventional and alternate calculations of SY and KPH percentages were evaluated using linear and quadratic models. Variance in alternate KPH percentage was greater (P = 0.01) than conventional KPH, suggesting that variance in KPH was independent from variance associated with HSW. Among carcass components, KPH weight was least related (R2 linear = 0.167, and R2 quadratic = 0.201) to HSW. Subprimal (SUB) and fat, bone, and trimmings (FBT) weight were each more directly related (R2 = 0.899 to 0.953) to HSW. Weight of KPH was poorly related to weight of SUB (R2 = 0.074) and FBT (R2 = 0.127), although quadratic relationships of these same metrics were slightly stronger. Therefore, to increase accuracy, future models predicting carcass yield should incorporate an accurate measure of KPH or exclude KPH altogether from the denominator of the yield calculation.
Conceptual foundation for spatial data display in the mineral resource sector
Authors: Kopylova N.S. , Demidova P.M. , Kolesnik O.A. , Sannikova A.P. , Sasonova S.G.
Published: September 2024

The authors consider spatial data as the basis for information provision of the territory. It is noted that at displaying it, significant is to choose the coordinate system and cartographic projection most suitable for a particular territory or object. The issues related to the accuracy of the mentioned information representation play a crucial role. In popular cartographic services and web applications for data display, the accuracy of the results is low; they cannot be correctly applied to engineering tasks. The majority of GIS products incorporate numerous built-in coordinate systems, allowing selection of a suitable projection for a specific task. It is established that today in the Russian Federation there is a number of issues concerned to coordination and displaying objects related to the mineral resource complex, as well as their presentation in the Unified State Real Estate Register. Various districts use different systems; this necessitates transforming coordinates, leading to accumulating errors. Additionally, the multi-stage principles involved in conversion and data display contribute to reduced accuracy. In the case of solving overview visualization tasks, this may not cause serious problems for the user; however, the design of information on objects of the mineral resource complex requires compliance with the desired graphical accuracy. Therefore, developing the coordination principle is closely connected with application of modern methods for data acquisition, digital representation, display, and storage using various information systems, which is directly determined by the strategic tasks of topographic, geodetic, and cartographic support in the Russian Federation until 2030
Dynamic Malware Analysis Using a Sandbox Environment, Network Traffic Logs, and Artificial Intelligence.
Authors: Guven Mesut
Published: September 2024

Dynamic malware analysis plays a pivotal role in modern cybersecurity, offering insights into malware behavior through dynamic execution and network traffic analysis. In this study, we present a comprehensive approach to dynamic malware analysis using a sandbox environment and network traffic logs. Our methodology involves the extraction of relevant features from network traffic captured in pcap files. We conducted experiments using a virtualized Oracle VirtualBox environment, where benign and malicious software samples were executed within a Windows virtual machine controlled by Python scripts. For network emulation, we utilized tools from the REMnux distribution, including InetSim and FakeDNS, to simulate realistic network interactions during malware execution. The collected pcap data underwent preprocessing and feature extraction to capture essential behavioral patterns and network indicators. Machine learning and artificial intelligence models were developed to classify malware based on these extracted features. Our findings underscore the efficacy of dynamic analysis coupled with machine learning in detecting and classifying malware variants based on their network behavior. This research contributes to advancing techniques for real-time threat detection and response in cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of dynamic malware analysis in mitigating evolving cyber threats.
O projeto íntimo de Lola Akinmadee o conceito de comunicação de Muniz Sodré: cruzamentos possíveis
Authors: Rita Vidica Ana , Reis Araújo Maurício , de Oliveira Brito Melo Pollyanna
Published: September 2024

This text proposes a look at the photographic work “The Intimacy Project” (2015), by photographer Lola Akinmade. In this work, the photographer produces portraits of each person and arranges them in pairs. The portraits have the same framing, although there is a change in the positioning of the camera, which causes a change in the look of the person being photographed. The intention was to think about the work based on Muniz Sodré’s concept of communication. To do this, the photographs are observed from the point of view of the image itself, the working method and the visual montage based on the discussions proposed, respectively, by Soulages, Duguet and Didi-Huberman. It is concluded that the authors of this text, affected by the work, act by looking and perceiving the communicational link that permeates the photographic work placed in dialogue.
Narrativas ambientais ativistas: convergências entre jornalismo independente e etnomídia indígena
Authors: Grzyb Amanda , Wolmer de Melo André , Martins Pedro
Published: September 2024

This article presents two activist communication practices that can contribute to confronting the current ecological crisis: independent environmental journalism and indigenous ethnomedia. The objective is to identify convergences between the two regarding the potential to trigger narratives in favor of social transformation. To this end, we operationalize, among others, the concepts of environmental justice, slow violence, environmentalism of the poor, symbolic violence and counter-hegemonic narratives. We conclude that independent environmental journalism and indigenous ethnomedia bring important elements of criticism ignored by the mainstream media, in addition to directly dialoguing with vulnerable populations that directly suffer the impacts of environmental damage.
Promoting environmental responsibility strategy and innovation in the hospitality industry: A green tourism approach
Authors: Liça Denada , Gashi Silvana , Qosja Ermira
Published: September 2024

The hospitality industry plays an important role in global sustainability efforts, and Albania, with its rich natural resources, is ready to take advantage of the growing demand for eco-friendly tourism experiences. As global awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, the hospitality industry faces increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. This study aims to explore new approaches to tourist behavior and the development of eco-hotels, contributing to the country’s potential as a leading destination in green tourism. Moreover, it focuses on the promotion of environmental responsibility and innovation within Albania’s hospitality sector, focusing on eco-tourism and the development of the eco-hotel model. Additionally, this study aims to identify opportunities for sustainable growth, positioning Albania as a competitive destination in the emerging green tourism field. The findings show the tourists’ perceptions of eco-tourism and eco hotels. Recommendations for stakeholders, policymakers, and businesses are provided, aiming to influence the country’s transformation into a competitive green tourism destination. By combining insights from tourists with global green tourism trends, this study contributes to Albania’s effort towards a more sustainable and competitive future in the hospitality sector. This study not only advances academic understanding but also provides practical guidance for the implementation of sustainable practices in hospitality. Additionally, it offers a model for integrating environmental responsibility and innovation in tourism, which can be adapted by other countries seeking sustainable development.
A Comparative Study Between Pneumatic and Laser Lithotripsy for Proximal Ureteric Calculus
Authors: Koju Rajan , Joshi Hemnath , Shrestha Sujan Makaju , Karmacharya Robin , Shalike Narendra
Published: September 2024

Introduction: There are various modalities of breaking urinary tract calculus. The aim of this study was to compare outcome between laser and pneumatic lithotripsy in patients with upper ureteric calculus in terms of stone free rate, proximal migration and complication. Methods: This was a prospective comparative study done in 210 patients with upper ureteric calculus. The patients were randomized into two groups (Laser Lithotripsy and Pneumatic Lithotripsy) from April 2018 to June 2019. The main objective of both the procedures was to break stone into particles less than 3 mm which was confirmed by X-ray KUB and ultrasonography of abdomen and pelvis after six weeks and to compare effectiveness in terms of immediate stone free rate, proximal migration, operative duration and post-operative complication. Results: There was no difference in age, gender and stone size in both groups. Immediate stone free rate was 99.05% in Laser Lithotripsy and 76.19% in Pneumatic Lithotripsy (p value<0.001). Proximal migration in Laser Lithotripsy was 0.95% and 23.81% in Pneumatic Lithotripsy (p<0.001). There was significantly prolonged operative duration in Pneumatic Lithotripsy (14.7Â±4.77 min vs 13.31Â±3.24 in Laser Lithotripsy, p=0.014). Complications were more in Pneumatic Lithotripsy group, which was statistically significant (p=0.017). Conclusion: Both pneumatic and laser lithotripsy are effective and safe modalities for treating upper ureteric calculus, however laser has less chances of proximal migration and higher immediate stone free rate with less complication
Evaluation of the use of additional capabilities of immunochemiluminescent analysis for determining the duration of infection with human immunodeficiency virus
Authors: Ermakov A. I. , Kotova N. N. , Vinogradova T. N. , Kireev D. E.
Published: September 2024

Early assessment of HIV incidence is an important public health tool for understanding the state of the epidemic in a particular area, identifying high-risk groups, and assessing the effectiveness of HIV prevention interventions.Objective. To assess the possibility of using the positivity rate (S/CO) in the HIV Ag/Ab immunoassay on the Alinity i analytical platform to determine the duration of infection during HIV screening.Materials and methods. The study included 316 HIV-infected patients with different infection durations. Immunochemical analysis was performed on an Alinity i automatic analyzer (Abbott Laboratories, USA) using the Alinity i HIV Ag/Ab Reagent Kit (Abbott Laboratories, Germany) in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.Results. Statistical analysis of 316 blood samples from HIV-infected patients at different stages of infection demonstrated the reactivity of the Alinity i HIV Ag/Ab test result and a dynamic increase in the positivity ratio during the first six months after the onset of the disease. Based on the data obtained, a threshold value (≤294 conventional units) was obtained for the positivity ratio, which allowed for a clear distinction between HIV-positive patients with a recent (<6 months) period of infection. At the same time, the sensitivity and specificity indicators for detecting recent infection in the CMIA analysis were 79,0% and 63,2%, respectively.Conclusion. The additional usage of the positivity ratio in the Alinity i HIV Ag/Ab CMIA analysis meets the acceptability criteria for assessing the duration of HIV infection and can be a useful tool for analyzing the stage of the epidemic in a particular territory.
A clinical case of extremely severe COVID-19 with a favourable outcome
Authors: Bolgova A. I. , Aschina L. A. , Baranova N. I. , Lesina O. N.
Published: September 2024

COVID-19 is an infectious disease that can progress from carrier and mild symptoms of acute respiratory infections to bilateral pneumonia, severe respiratory failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), multiorgan failure, sepsis and shock. One of the predictors of severe course of infection is advanced age and comorbidities. In this work we considered a clinical case of COVID-19 patient S., 86 years old, who was admitted to the hospital, to the intensive care unit on the 10th day of the disease, in an extremely severe condition. A diagnosis of bilateral polisegmental pneumonia with 70% lung involvement caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus was made. In addition to antiviral therapy with remdesivir and symptomatic therapy, pathogenetic therapy with tocilizumab was applied. On admission, the patient had leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, elevated values of COE, urea, significant elevation of inflammatory markers CRP and D-dimer, as well as pCo2. During inpatient treatment, positive dynamics of the condition and laboratory parameters were observed. The patient was discharged in satisfactory condition, all laboratory parameters were normalised, except for a slight increase in CRP and pCO2 levels. Despite the age of the patient and the severity of COVID-19 course, the combined use of drugs with multidirectional action, including tocilizumab, may improve the outcome of the disease.
Features of the covid-19 epidemic and characteristics of patients during the spread of the delta SARS-COV-2 in Russia
Authors: Fomicheva A. A. , Pimenov N. N. , Komarova S. V. , Urtikov A. V. , Tsapkova N. N. , Proshkina A. A. , De Silva S. H.R. , Vlasenko A. E. , Strelkova D. A. , Nekludova G. V. , Rachina S. A. , Avdeev S. N. , Chulanov V. P.
Published: September 2024

Aim: To study the manifestations of the COVID-19 epidemic and the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of adult patients with a new coronavirus infection during the dominance of the Delta SARS-COV-2 in the Russian Federation.

Materials and Methods: Study included patients aged ≥18 years with a laboratory-confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19, detected in the period from 09/01/2021 to 11/30/2021 (n= 2 619 298) in 85 Russian regions.

Results: There were 2 periods of rise and decline in the COVID-19 incidence and mortality during the spread of the Delta SARS-CoV-2 in Russia: June-September and OctoberDecember 2021 (Wald – Wolfowitz criterion, p<0,05). The median age of patients was 49 [36–63] years, 61,1% were women. Most of patients were 30–39 years old (21,0%), the lowest proportion was among 18–29 years old (12.1%) (p<0,05). Proportion of patients with mild disease was 75,4%, moderate – 18,8%, severe – 3,3%, extremely severe – 2,5% (p<0.05). Hospitalization rate was 23,7%, proportion of patients treated in the intensive care unit was 12.9%, and rate of invasive mechanical ventilation was 9,8%. The median period from the onset of symptoms to the diagnosis was 3 [1-6] days, the duration of the disease and hospitalization was 13,0 [10–16] and 12,0 [9–17] days, respectively. The median age of the deceased patients was 73 [65–82] years, of which 59,1% were women, 61,5% were persons ≥70 years old. The presence of one or more comorbidities was found in 73,9% of deceased patients (OR=17,1; 95% CI: 16,8–17,3).

Conclusion: during the period of the spread of the Delta SARS-COV-2 variant in Russia, the number of patients with severe and extremely severe disease among adult patients without taking into account the vaccine history was 5,8%. Old age and the presence of concomitant diseases were key risk factors for adverse outcomes of COVID-19.
Lipid and carbohydrate metabolism disturbances in children with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Nikiforova A. O. , Greshnyakova V. A. , Zhirkov A. A. , Alekseeva L. A.
Published: September 2024

Aim. To study the state of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, body composition, liver parenchyma structure in children with chronic hepatitis C (CHC).Materials and methods. 63 children with CHC examined at DNACIB in 2022–2023 (anthropometry, laboratory examination, bioimpedance analysis (BIA) of body composition, liver elastography with evaluation of steatosis).Results. Abnormalities of lipid metabolism were detected in 1/3 of children with CHC even with normal and low body mass index (BMI). Signs of insulin resistance (HOMAIR>3,2) were found in 54% of children with CHC. One third of patients with insulin resistance have liver steatosis, which significantly exceeds the frequency of steatosis registration among children without insulin resistance. There was a tendency for the frequency of insulin resistance to increase in proportion to the progression of the stage of liver fibrosis. No association between hepatitis virus genotype and disorders of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism was found.Conclusion. As a result of hepatitis C virus exposure in children with CHC, the risk of insulin resistance formation increases, which may be one of the pathogenetic mechanisms of liver steatosis development, increasing the risk of severe liver fibrosis formation and unfavorable outcome of the disease.
Blood serum TGF-β1 content in children with new coronavirus infection
Authors: Bogomolova I. K. , Peregoedova V. N.
Published: September 2024

Impaired serum TGF-β1 production is one of the proposed mechanisms for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).Study objective: to study blood serum TGF-β1 content in children with new coronavirus infection.Materials and methods: a one-stage study was conducted in 119 patients with COVID-19 and compared with 118 healthy children of the same age and sex as a control group. The age range in both groups was 11.0 years. Preschoolers (0–6 years old) and schoolchildren (7–17 years old) in the group with COVID-19 were 21 (18%) and 98 (82%), respectively. Children with COVID-19 were divided into asymptomatic (n=23), mild (n=61), and moderate (n=35) subgroups. Serum samples for TGF-β1 concentration analysis were taken from all patients and tested by flow fluorimetry. The data were processed using the IBM SPSS Statistics Version 25.0 software package (International Business Machines Corporation, license No Z125-3301-14, USA).Results: median serum TGF-β1 levels of children 0–17 years old with COVID-19 regardless of the form of severity were significantly higher than in the control group. The serum concentration of TGF-β1 in children with COVID-19 of preschool age was increased comparing to schoolchildren. Children 0-6 years old with a moderate form of coronavirus infection had high serum TGF-β1 values when compared with school-age patients.Conclusion: elevated serum TGF-β1 levels were found in children both without clinical manifestations and with symptoms of coronavirus infection, reaching maximum values in the moderate form in children 0–6 years old.
Всеволоду Александровичу Цинзерлингу – 70 лет
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: September 2024

.
On some m-symmetric generalized hypergeometric d-orthogonal polynomials
Authors: Blel Mongi
Published: September 2024

In [9] I. Lamiri and M. Ouni state some characterization theorems for
d-orthogonal polynomials of Hermite, Gould-Hopper and Charlier type
polynomials. In [3] Y. Ben Cheikh I. Lamiri and M.Ouni give a
characterization theorem for some classes of generalized hypergeometric
polynomials containing for example, Gegenbauer polynomials, Gould-Hopper
polynomials, Humbert polynomials, a generalization of Laguerre polynomials
and a generalization of Charlier polynomials. In this work, we introduce a
new class D of generalized hypergeometric m-symmetric polynomial sequence
containing the Hermite polynomial sequence and Laguerre polynomial sequence.
Then we consider a characterization problem consisting in finding the
d-orthogonal polynomial sequences in the class D, m ? d. The solution
provides new d-orthogonal polynomial sequences to be classified in
d-Askey-scheme and also having a m-symmetry property with m ? d. This class
contains the Gould-Hopper polynomial sequence, the class considered by Ben
Cheikh-Douak, the class considered in [3]. This class contains new
d-orthogonal polynomial sequences not belonging to the classA. We derive
also in this work the d-dimensional functional vectors ensuring the
d-orthogonality of these polynomials. We also give an explicit expression of
the d-dimensional functional vector.
Some homological properties on generalized amalgamated Banach algebras
Authors: Barootkoob S. , Lakzian H.
Published: September 2024

In the present paper, first we characterize the multiplier algebra, (maximal)
ideals, minimal idempotents and spectrum of the generalized amalgamated
Banach algebra A?? X in terms of A and X and the bilinear mapping ? from X?X
into A. Then, we show that there are a strong relationship between some of
homological properties of A?? X, such as Connes-amenability, flatness and
projectivity, ?-biprojectivity, and the Banach algebras A and X and the
mapping ?. The results of this paper extend several results in the
literature.
Nonlinear maps preserving sums of triple products on *-algebras
Authors: Ferreira João , Marietto Maria
Published: September 2024

Let A and B be two unital complex *-algebras such that A has a nontrivial
projection. In this paper, we study the structure of bijective nonlinear
maps ? : A ? B preserving sum of triple products ?1abc + ?2a*cb* + ?3ba*c +
?4cab* + ?5bca + ?6cb*a*, where the scalars {?k}6k =1 are complex numbers
satisfying some conditions.
Geodesic equations of Weyl conformal gravity theory in CSS metric
Authors: Lazarov Nenad , Forgiarini Ivan
Published: September 2024

In our work we presented the modified field equations generated by action of
Weyl conformal gravity. Assuming static cylindric symmetry, we derived the
corresponding Bach tensor and from field equation we find gravity potential.
We solved geodesic equations in the case of conformal gravity potential.
Also we consider precession perihelion of Solar planets and S stars.
Some properties of the matrix related to q-coloured coordination number
Authors: Liang Huyile , Zhang Jinyang , Wang Yu
Published: September 2024

The q-coloured coordination number Sn,k(q) counts the number of lattice paths
from (0,0) to (n, k) using steps (0, 1), (1, 0) and (1, 1) without
east-steps on the x-axis, among which the (1, 1) steps are coloured with q
colours. We investigate some properties of the polynomial matrix S(q) = [sn,k(q)] n,k?0 = [Sn?k,k(q)] n,k?0, including the unimodality problems of
sequences located over rays in S(q) and the q-total positivity of S(q). We
show that the zeros of all row sums Rn(q) = ?nk =0 sn,k(q) = ?i rn,iqi are
in (??,?1) and are dense in the corresponding semi-closed interval. We also
prove that the coefficients rn,i are asymptotically normal (by central and
local limit theorems).
Protecting national interests through non-standard institutional frameworks: The case of the International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP)
Authors: Knezevic-Predic Vesna , Simentic-Popovic Janja
Published: September 2024

This paper explores the success factors behind the International Commission
on Missing Persons (ICMP), established in 1996 to address the issue of
missing persons from the conflicts in the former Yugoslavia. The ICMP?s
mission has expanded to foster state cooperation and provide expert
assistance in locating missing persons due to conflicts, human rights
abuses, and disasters. This study hypothesises that the ICMP?s success stems
from the interplay of exogenous factors, such as shifts in international law
and humanitarian paradigms, and endogenous factors, including its flexible
institutional design and expert-driven approach. By dissecting the ICMP?s
structure and functions, this research underscores the importance of
adaptability and expertise in the effective operation of international
organisations. The ICMP?s engagement in the Republic of Serbia and the
territory of Kosovo provides insight into how non-standard institutional
frameworks can navigate political intricacies to achieve significant
humanitarian outcomes, demonstrating the crucial balance between national
interests and global humanitarian commitments.
Nonsurgical orthodontic treatment using bone-anchored maxillary protraction in a patient with unilateral cleft lip and palate
Authors: Azami Niloufar , Farha Philip , Uribe Flavio
Published: September 2024

Class III malocclusion due to a retrognathic maxilla is common in patients with cleft lip and palate. Skeletally anchored maxillary protraction using screw-anchored mini-plates combined with intraoral elastics has shown promising results in achieving orthopedic changes and maintaining the outcome until the completion of the growth. This case report presents the course of treatment in a patient with unilateral cleft lip and palate and multiple congenitally missing teeth treated with bone-anchored maxillary protraction until the end of growth. Four mini-plates (Bollard plates) were used during comprehensive fixed orthodontic treatment to protract the dentition and close the space where teeth were missing, extrude the canine, and force eruption of the second premolar using extension arms and cantilevers. A 2-year follow-up at age 17 showed stable occlusion and maintenance of soft tissue results. Bone-anchored maxillary protraction treatment in a patient with cleft lip and palate demonstrates proper orthopedic results and could be a viable alternative to orthognathic surgery.
An in vitro study of a combined patient-specific device for safe and accurate insertion of infrazygomatic crest miniscrews
Authors: Du Bingran , Wang Xiaoyi , Wang Jun , Ji Mohan , Yi Qin , Jiang Jiang , Tan Jinchuan , Li Jianyi
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To develop and assess the efficacy of a novel combined patient-specific device (CPSD) for the accurate and safe insertion of infrazygomatic crest miniscrews in orthodontic procedures.

Materials and Methods

Twenty-eight miniscrews were placed in the infrazygomatic crest region of 28 cadaver maxillae using the direct manual method (n = 14) or the CPSD (n = 14) based on preset trajectories. The CPSD, designed based on the integration model, included a positioning guide, an insertion guide, and a depth-limiting groove. Deviations in the insertion site, tip location, insertion angle, and biting depth between the preset and real insertion trajectories were calculated to evaluate the accuracy of miniscrew insertion. Classification frequencies of root proximity, sinus penetration depth, and biting depth of the miniscrew after insertion were also calculated to evaluate the safety of miniscrew insertion.

Results

Regarding evaluation of accuracy, significant differences were observed in the deviation values of the insertion site, tip location, insertion angle, and biting depth between the CPSD and freehand groups (P = .001, P < .001, P < .001, P = .039, respectively). Regarding evaluation of safety, a significant difference was observed in the classification frequencies of root proximity between the two groups (P = .016).

Conclusions

Compared with manual insertion, CPSD could be a preferred method for safe and accurate insertion of infrazygomatic crest miniscrews for orthodontists.