bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The artificial iris – Analysis of various implantation techniques after ocular trauma
Authors: Krishnan V Murali , Todorova Margarita G , Wiechens Burkhard , Valmaggia Christophe , Varde Meghana A
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

The aim of this study is to analyze the outcome of various techniques for a custom-made iris prosthesis implantation as part of reconstructive anterior segment surgery following traumatic aniridia.

Methods:

This retrospective interventional study was done for 6 eyes that received an artificial iris as secondary reconstructive measure for photophobia and unsatisfactory vision following initial globe repair. Different implantation techniques were employed. These included simple sulcus implantation, implantation of a composite (iris prosthesis with attached intraocular lens) implant, and combinations with phacoemulsification, vitrectomy, and penetrating keratoplasty.

Results:

In all cases, the artificial iris was implanted successfully. In the follow-up period (1–48 months), postoperative complications included rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, prolonged intraocular inflammation, and corneal transplant decompensation due to graft rejection. There was no case of secondary glaucoma. Complications could be managed successfully. All patients showed improved best-corrected visual acuity and were satisfied with functional and cosmetic results.

Conclusion:

This case series highlights the different implantation techniques for reconstruction of the anterior segment after ocular trauma. The versatility of the custom-made iris implant accounts for a wide range of applications and the foldable material reduces the need for large incisions in the already traumatized eye.
Suture clamping of intraocular lenses without a scleral flap: A new implantation method for patients with an aphakic capsule
Authors: Tian Yan-Ming , Li Jun-Jun , Gao Wen
Published: November 2021

We aim to describe a technique for intraocular lens (IOL) implantation with suture clamping for aphakic capsules. This prospective, noncomparative, interventional case study included three eyes of three patients with an aphakic capsule after vitrectomy, in which the IOL was clamped by suturing. The suturing procedure was transconjunctival or subconjunctival performed without scleral flaps. The IOLs were implanted without difficulty, and visual acuity improved after IOL implantation. There were no severe complications, and the position of each IOL remained correct through 18 months of follow-up. The present technique is straightforward and effective in the treatment of eyes with an aphakic capsule.
Elliptical versus circular flap configuration in myopic eyes undergoing femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis surgery: A contralateral eye study
Authors: Gupta Amit , Thakur Anchal , Gupta Suruchi , Malhotra Chintan , Kulshrestha Ashish , Choudhary Tripti
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

To study whether a customized elliptical flap configuration offers any visual, refractive, or biomechanical advantage over the “conventional” circular flaps in patients undergoing myopic laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).

Methods:

A prospective interventional contralateral eye study was undertaken enrolling 290 eyes of 145 myopic patients (≤−6.0D) undergoing LASIK, wherein the corneal flap was created in one eye using a customized elliptical flap configuration versus a conventional circular flap configuration in the other eye. Postoperatively, we compared the visual outcome, change in higher-order aberrations, corneal asphericity, and corneal biomechanics.

Results:

The visual outcomes, including higher-order aberrations, were comparable between the two groups. Changes in spherical aberration (mean: 0.234–0.331 versus 0.234–0.42; P = 0.644), corneal asphericity (−0.32–0.34 versus − 0.34–0.45; P = 0.42), corneal hysteresis (9.35–7.33 versus 9.4–6.71, P = 0.489), corneal resistance factor (9.71–7.40 versus 10.38–6.9, P = 0.181) were comparable between the elliptical and circular groups, respectively.

Conclusion:

We evaluated the usefulness of a customized elliptical flap configuration for performing LASIK surgery. Our data suggests that elliptical flaps may be associated with superior visual and biomechanical performance compared to circular flaps. This is certainly relevant in eyes with “borderline” pre-LASIK profile to improve patient satisfaction and safety after surgery.
Obstetrical forceps-induced Descemet membrane tears
Authors: Agarwal Rinky , Singh Nidhi Kalra , Sinha Rajesh , Sharma Namrata
Published: November 2021

Obstetrical forceps-induced Descemet membrane tears (FIDMT) are usually encountered during complicated forceps-assisted deliveries. The condition may lead to significant visual debilitation in young children and is frequently ignored due to its low incidence. Undue stretch on the Descemet’s membrane during the process of forceps-assisted delivery results in their vertical/oblique tear (s), which usually leads to corneal edema in early neonatal life. On its resolution, these residual tears result in visually disabling astigmatism that can lead to dense and recalcitrant amblyopia. Slit-lamp examination, anterior segment optical coherence tomography, specular microscopy, confocal microscopy, and corneal topography and tomography can be employed for its accurate diagnosis. While these can be prevented by improved perinatal care, once diagnosed, they mandate prompt refractive correction and amblyopia therapy to prevent disabling visual deterioration in affected children. In adulthood, medical and surgical management may be planned for symptomatic patients based on coexistent amblyopia as this is the major factor guiding visual prognosis. There is limited comprehensive literature in this regard, and the present review discusses the pathogenesis, clinical features, and recent developments in investigations, management, and outcomes of FIDMT during the last three decades.
Phylodynamic Pattern of Genetic Clusters, Paradigm Shift on Spatio-Temporal Distribution of Clades, and Impact of Spike Glycoprotein Mutations of SARS-CoV-2 Isolates from India
Authors: Sivasubramanian Srinivasan , Gopalan Vidya , Ramesh Kiruba , Padmanabhan Padmapriya , Mone Kiruthiga , Govindan Karthikeyan , Velladurai Selvakumar , Dhandapani Prabu , Krishnasamy Kaveri , Kitambi Satish Srinivas
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

The COVID-19 pandemic is associated with high morbidity and mortality, with the emergence of numerous variants. The dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 with respect to clade distribution is uneven, unpredictable and fast changing.

Methods:

Retrieving the complete genomes of SARS-CoV-2 from India and subjecting them to analysis on phylogenetic clade diversity, Spike (S) protein mutations and their functional consequences such as immune escape features and impact on infectivity. Whole genome of SARS-CoV-2 isolates (n = 4,326) deposited from India during the period from January 2020 to December 2020 is retrieved from Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) and various analyses performed using in silico tools.

Results:

Notable clade dynamicity is observed indicating the emergence of diverse SARS-CoV-2 variants across the country. GR clade is predominant over the other clades and the distribution pattern of clades is uneven. D614G is the commonest and predominant mutation found among the S-protein followed by L54F. Mutation score prediction analyses reveal that there are several mutations in S-protein including the RBD and NTD regions that can influence the virulence of virus. Besides, mutations having immune escape features as well as impacting the immunogenicity and virulence through changes in the glycosylation patterns are identified.

Conclusions:

The study has revealed emergence of variants with shifting of clade dynamics within a year in India. It is shown uneven distribution of clades across the nation requiring timely deposition of SARS-CoV-2 sequences. Functional evaluation of mutations in S-protein reveals their significance in virulence, immune escape features and disease severity besides impacting therapeutics and prophylaxis.
Uterocutaneous Fistula Postabdominal Myomectomy
Authors: Nwogu Chidinma Magnus , Ugwu Aloy Okechukwu , Soibi-Harry Adaiah Priscila , Nwokocha Samuel Ugochukwu
Published: November 2021

Uterocutaneous fistula (UCF) is a very clinical entity that occurs mostly following surgical injuries. We present a case of a 35-year-old nulliparous woman who developed UCF following openabdominal myomectomy. She was managed successfully using laparotomy with fistula tract excision and repair. Her symptoms resolved spontaneously after surgery,
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices Associated with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among Patients Attending a Tertiary Health Facility in North-East Nigeria
Authors: Maiyaki Tanko Fisak , Odjimogho Stella , Okandeji-Barry Oghenenioborue Rume , Agofure Otovwe , Enoch Musa
Published: November 2021

Background:

Poor management of diabetes mellitus (DM) has resulted in increased morbidity and mortality among patients. Likely factors contributing to this trend include inadequate knowledge, attitude, and diabetes management practices among patients.

Aim:

This study was therefore designed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices associated with type 2 DM in patients attending Federal Medical Center, Jalingo Taraba State.

Materials and Methods:

The study was a cross-sectional study carried out among 286 type 2 diabetes patients selected purposively. A validated questionnaire was used to collect the data, and it comprised of four sections, namely sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of DM, attitude toward DM, and DM management practices. The collected data were entered into IBM SPSS 23.0 and were analyzed using the descriptive and inferential statistics with the level of significance set at 0.05.

Results:

Most of the respondents 104 (35.62%) were aged 50–59 years and 163 (55.8%) were females. Besides, 89.0% of the respondents demonstrated good knowledge of DM, whereas 56.8% exhibited good attitude toward DM and 81.8% demonstrated good DM management practices. Knowledge of DM showed a significant association with attitude and practice of DM management (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Knowledge, attitude, and practice remain vital in the management of DM and prevention of complications. Therefore, more efforts must be channeled into improving and sustaining the knowledge, attitude, and practices of patients to improve their quality of life.
Management of a Periodontally Compromised Grade III Mobile Tooth Associated with Pyogenic Granuloma
Authors: Yajamanya Shravanthi Raghav , Chatterjee Anirban , Hussain Ahad M. , Das Sushma
Published: November 2021

With current advancements in the field of dentistry, the dental treatments today are focused more on conserving the tooth and supporting the concept of “nothing serves better than the natural tooth itself.” This case report presents a multidisciplinary treatment approach adopted in retaining a Grade III mobile periodontally compromised permanent maxillary left central incisor in a 32-year-old female patient who reported to the Department of Periodontics and Oral implantology with the chief complaint of intraoral swelling, pus discharge, bleeding gums, and tooth mobility in the upper front tooth region. At 1-year follow-up, the tooth was periodontally stable and functional.
Postweaning Administration of Aqueous Leaf Extract of Gongronema latifolium May Improve Obesity Indices in Young Adult Offspring
Authors: Amadi Okekem , Adeniyi Deborah B. , Katchy Nkiru A. , Nwannadi Vivian , Ugwu Princewill Ikechukwu , Ugwu Sandra Ugonne , Iloabachie Chioma R. , Emelike Chinedum U. , Chukwu Odochi O. , Iyare Cordilia O.
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

Metabolic diseases are multifactorial resulting from genetic, physiological, behavioral, and environmental influences. Genetic influence alone does not suffice to explain the rate at which these diseases have increased. Diet manipulations during critical developmental periods have been used to identify their contribution to obesity and diabetes development in offspring. Gongronema latifolium (GL) has been used for many generations for medicinal and nonmedicinal purposes. The leaves of GL are primarily used as spice and vegetable in traditional folk medicine.

Aim:

The aim of the study is to investigate the effect of postweaning consumption of aqueous leaf extract of GL on obesity indices in young adult offspring.

Materials and Methods:

Adult female Wistar rats were used and pregnancy was achieved by introducing matured male Wistar rats of proven fertility at the ratio of two females to one male during proestrus. At the day of delivery, adult female rats were randomly divided into two groups; Group I (normal control) and Groups II–IV (GL extract-treated group). The offspring of the different maternal groups also assumed their mothers' group. Group I was the normal control group while Groups II–IV were given 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of GL extract, respectively. At postnatal day (PND), 21 offspring were weaned from their mothers and assumed the group of their mothers till PND 42. Parameters such as body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, body weight-waist circumference ratio, insulin level, liver enzymes (ALT, ALP, and AST), and oral glucose tolerance were assessed in the experimental animals.

Results:

There was a significant decrease in anthropometric indices (body weight, BMI, waist circumference, body weight-waist circumference ratio) and serum ALT, ALP, and AST levels in the young adult offspring of the GL extract group. However, there was a significant (P < 0.05) increase in insulin level in offspring whose mothers consumed GL extract when compared to the values of the normal control.

Conclusions:

This study showed that postweaning consumption of GL had significant effects on anthropometric indices, hepatoactivity, insulin sensitivity, and blood glucose level.
Effect of Administration of Flavonoid-Rich Extract from Hibiscus sabdariffa to Lactating Rats on Plasma Glucocorticoid, Leptin, and Postnatal Growth of Offspring
Authors: Ugwu Sandra Ugonne , Adeniyi Deborah B. , Katchy Nkiru A. , Nwannadi Vivian , Ugwu Princewill Ikechukwu , Amadi Okekem , Iloabachie Chioma R. , Emelike Chinedum U. , Chukwu Odochi O. , Iyare Cordilia O.
Published: November 2021

Introduction:

Flavonoids are a group of natural substances with variable phenolic structures well-known for their beneficial effects on health. Flavonoids are now considered an indispensable component in a variety of nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, medicinal, and cosmetic applications because of their anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic, and anti-carcinogenic properties coupled with their capacity to modulate key cellular enzyme function.

Aim:

This study was aimed at investigating the effect of administration of flavonoids from Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) to lactating rats on plasma glucocorticoids, leptin, and postnatal weights of the offspring.

Materials and Methods:

Forty pregnant female Sprague − Dawley rats weighing 150 g–200 g were used for this study. Flavonoids were extracted from HS following standard procedures. On the day of delivery, the rats were divided basically into four groups of 10 dams per group. Group A received tap water; Group B received low dose of flavonoid (5 mg/kg body weight daily); Group C received medium dose of flavonoid (10 mg/kg body weight daily); and Group D received high dose of flavonoid (20 mg/kg body weight daily). Flavonoid administration commenced on day 1 of lactation and ended at weaning. Dams from each group had their blood withdrawn from the orbital sinus on days 1, 7, and 21 for assay of plasma glucocorticoids and leptin. Food intake of the dams and body weight of the offspring was measured.

Results:

There was a progressive dose-dependent decrease (P < 0.05) in maternal plasma glucocorticoids and leptin with the most decrease seen in the high dose group and PND 21. Low dose flavonoid caused a progressive decrease in maternal food consumption when compared with the control group (P < 0.05). Low dose extract caused a progressive decrease in the body weight of the offspring, whereas the high dose caused a progressive increase in the body weight of the offspring (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Flavonoids from HS caused a progressive decrease in glucocorticoids and leptin with a resultant progressive increase in maternal food intake and body weights of the offspring.
Melatonin and Vitamin C Modulate Cassava Diet-Induced Alteration in Reproductive and Thyroid Functions
Authors: Maliki Oloruntobi Oluwasegun , Alagbonsi Abdullateef Isiaka , Ibitoye Comfort Moyinoluwa , Olayaki Luqman Aribidesi
Published: November 2021

Background:

Cyanide, present in cassava, causes adverse effects on the thyroid and male reproductive functions and its poisoning generates free radical and oxidative stress. Melatonin and Vitamin C are antioxidants that improve conditions associated with oxidative stress.

Aims and objectives:

We evaluated the effects of melatonin and/ or Vitamin C on body weight, thyroid functions, and reproductive parameters in cyanide-enriched cassava-fortified diet (CD)-treated rats and their possible mechanisms of actions.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty male rats were divided into six groups (n = 5 each): Group I – Control, Group II – Melatonin, Group III – Vitamin C, Group IV – CD, Group V – CD + Melatonin, and Group VI – CD + Melatonin + Vitamin C. The control received normal saline, while melatonin and Vitamin C groups were dosed orally at 15 mg/kg melatonin and 100 mg/kg Vitamin C, respectively, CD group was fed with 40% cassava-fortified diet only, while other groups received the combination of the treatments.

Results:

In CD-treated rats, the sperm parameters were not affected but sperm count was insignificantly increased by melatonin, while melatonin + Vitamin C significantly increased all semen parameters. Neither CD only nor co-administration with melatonin and/or Vitamin C affected plasma luteinizing hormone and testosterone. The CD increased triiodothyronine (T3), but the increase was abolished by melatonin. Moreover, the CD increased thyroxine (T4), which was neither affected by melatonin alone nor its combination with Vitamin C. The levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone were not different across all treatment groups. The CD increased the thiocyanate, which was ameliorated by melatonin but abolished by combination of melatonin and Vitamin C. The CD also decreased the total antioxidant capacity level, which was abolished by melatonin. The CD increased weight gain, thyroid hormone, and oxidative stress but had no effect on semen parameters and reproductive hormones.

Conclusion:

Melatonin and Vitamin C attenuate the effects of CD on weight, thyroid hormones, and oxidative stress.
Outcomes of Starting Low-dose Pazopanib in Patients with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Who Do Not Meet Eligibility Criteria for Clinical Trials
Authors: Akatsuka Jun , Kimura Go , Obayashi Kotaro , Tsutsumi Kotaro , Yanagi Masato , Endo Yuki , Takeda Hayato , Hayashi Tatsuro , Toyama Yuka , Suzuki Yasutomo , Hamasaki Tsutomu , Yamamoto Yoichiro , Kondo Yukihiro
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

Eligibility for clinical trials is very strict and only patients who satisfy various criteria can enter trials. The individual use of pazopanib has not been adequately investigated. An optimal administration regimen for pazopanib in “real-world” patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) is required. Our purpose was to determine the tolerability and efficacy of first-line pazopanib with a low starting dose in patients with mRCC who were ineligible for clinical trials.

Materials and Methods:

This study included patients with mRCC who underwent treatment with first-line pazopanib and were previously excluded from clinical trials because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. A 400 mg pazopanib starting dose is used routinely in patients with mRCC; if tolerated, dose escalation up to 800 mg may occur.

Results:

We identified 18 patients with mRCC who received first-line pazopanib and were previously determined ineligible for clinical trials. Pazopanib dose was escalated in 12 patients (66.6%), to 600 mg/day in 8 patients (44.4%) and to 800 mg/day in 4 patients (22.2%), and was not escalated in 6 patients (33.3%). In 3 patients (16.7%), pazopanib was discontinued owing to intolerability. The most common frequent adverse event was elevated alanine aminotransferase levels in 6 patients (33.3%), followed by a decreased platelet count in 5 patients (27.8%) and anorexia in 5 patients (27.8%). Partial response was seen in 5 patients (27.8%) and stable disease in 10 patients (55.6%); median progression-free survival was 11.9 months (95% confidence interval: 6.3–28.7 months).

Conclusion:

Our data indicated that a low starting dose of 400 mg pazopanib did not negatively affect treatment tolerability and efficacy in patients with mRCC ineligible for clinical trials. We found that lower starting doses may lead to better results. Additional studies are needed in a larger cohort and longer follow-up to attain authentic outcomes.
Do Transperitoneal and Retroperitoneal Hand-Assisted Laparoscopic Nephroureterectomy have Different Effects on Intravesical Recurrence?
Authors: Hu Che-Yuan , Huang Chao-Yuan , Huang Kuo-How , Tai Huai-Ching , Lin Yung-Ming , Tai Ta-Yao
Published: November 2021

Objectives:

Some studies have shown that in patients with upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) who have undergone hand-assisted laparoscopic nephroureterectomy (HALNU), the narrow working space and inevitable manipulation that occurs during the retroperitoneal approach (RP-HALNU) enhances tumor cell seeding in the bladder mucosa. This study was an attempt to investigate the differences in intravesical recurrence between transperitoneal HALNU (TP-HALNU) and RP-HALNU.

Patients and Methods:

From 1999 to 2011, a total of 197 patients with UTUC were enrolled. After excluding those with a previous history of bladder cancer, 170 patients were analyzed. Sixty-five of these underwent RP-HALNU, and 105 of these underwent TP-HALNU. The median follow-up periods were 39.2 and 46.2 months. Tumor location was divided into three groups: In the renal pelvis, in the ureter, and in both the renal pelvis and ureter.

Results:

There was no significant difference in the intravesical recurrence rate in relation to the different surgical approaches (P = 0.10), but tumor location in both the renal pelvis and ureter significantly increased the risk (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.11, P = 0.01). In addition, advanced T stage (HR = 9.63, P < 0.01) was the only significant risk factor related to death.

Conclusions:

In patients with UTUC, tumor location in both the renal pelvis and ureter determined higher susceptibility to intravesical recurrence. However, different surgical approaches to HALNU were not a significant risk factor for intravesical recurrence.
An Observational Study on the Efficacy of Mirabegron in Medical Expulsive Therapy of the Lower Ureteric Calculus
Authors: Chatterjee Souvik , Jalan Vishal , Pal Dilip Kumar
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

Medical expulsive therapy (MET) is used in lower ureteric calculus to reduce symptoms, to facilitate passage, and to decrease the requirement of endourological surgical interventions. Alpha-blockers, spasmolytics, and calcium channel blockers have been shown to be effective in clinical trials. Beta-3 receptor stimulation in the ureter has been shown to decrease the intraluminal pressure. Thus, Mirabegron, beta 3 receptor agonist, can be thought as alternative MET agent.

Materials and Methods:

We have done prospective observational study to see the efficacy of mirabegron for MET of lower ureteric calculus ≤10 mm in size. Patients were divided into two groups: Group A (n = 50) received diclofenac 50 mg twice daily for 5 days then on demand for 4 weeks and Group B (n = 50) received diclofenac 50 mg twice daily for 5 days than on demand and mirabegron 50 mg daily for 4 weeks. Patients were followed up weekly with clinical examination, ultrasound screening of kidney, ureter, and bladder (KUB) and noncontrast computed tomography scan KUB after the 28th day of therapy.

Results:

We found that the passage of stone is significantly higher in mirabegron group (Group A: 68% and Group B: 92%; P < 0.05), and this effect is also statistically significant for stones <7 mm size (Group A: 73.91%, Group B: 96.96%, P = 0.01026). Duration of stone expulsion in Group A: 20.29 ± 5.512 days and Group B: 10.65 ± 4.294 days (P = 0.00001) and the relief of storage symptoms are earlier in mirabegron group (Group A: 16.28 ± 5.65 days and Group B: 6.2 ± 2.58 days, P = 0.00001).

Conclusion:

Our study reveals that Mirabegron is effective for the treatment of lower ureteric stones ≤10 mm size, especially for stone of size <7 mm and it improves the storage symptoms in these patients.
The Effectiveness and Durability of Ureteral Tumor Stent, the National Taiwan University Hospital Experience
Authors: Hung Shih Chun , Chiang I. Ni , Huang Chao Yuan , Pu Yeong Shiau
Published: November 2021

Purpose:

We reviewed the clinical experience of using the ureteral tumor stent (Bard®, angiomed UROSOFT) in the National Taiwan University Hospital. We focused on the efficacy and durability of the ureteral tumor stent.

Materials and Methods:

We collected the patient data from April 2013 to 2014. A total of 94 patients with 157 ureteral units which received ureteral tumor stent in the National Taiwan University Hospital were enrolled. We analyzed the effectiveness according to the hydronephrosis grading. The durability was counted if it did not match any of the failure criteria including the following: 1. Hydronephrosis upgrade, 2. Serum creatinine elevated over 150% of baseline, 3. Ipsilateral percutaneous nephrostomy insertion or failure to remove it after antegrade insertion, and 4. Replacement due to clinically significant symptoms.

Results:

In general, 65% hydronephrosis downgrade, 25% remained stationary without severe hydronephrosis, while only 10% deteriorated or remain severe hydronephrosis. The median durability was 6.8 months. The bacteriuria and size of the ureteral tumor stent were the significant factors about the durability in single variant analysis.

Conclusion:

The ureteral tumor stent would improve the obstructive uropathy and persist functional for an average period over half a year.
Interventional Management of Low-flow Priapism
Authors: Garcia-Perdomo Herney Andrés , Gómez-Puerto Diego Andrés , Zapata-Copete James , Manzano-Núñez Ramiro
Published: November 2021

Priapism is an involuntary prolonged erection that lasts for more than 4 h. Although several interventions have been proposed to manage the condition, these strategies are based on expert panel opinions, and little evidence exists regarding prognosis and outcomes. To synthetize information about interventions to treat priapism and to make evidence-based recommendations, we performed a literature search of Medline via Ovid, Scopus (including Embase) and Lilacs from 1980 to the current day with the following keywords: ischemic priapism, erectile function, drainage, and shunt. The length of the ischemic priapism is an important variable for the prognosis because of the pathophysiology of this condition. Here, we propose a step-by-step approach based on the time and invasiveness of the intervention. However, it is important to note that we could not find any clinical trial that supports this approach, and more research is needed for the future statements.
Асимптотика локальных вероятностей больших уклонений ветвящегося процесса в случайной среде с геометрическим распределением числа потомков
Authors: Denisov Konstantin Yurievich
Published: November 2021

Рассматриваются вероятности больших уклонений ветвящегося процесса $Z_{n} = X_{n, 1} + \dotsb + X_{n, Z_{n-1}}$ в случайной среде $\boldsymbol\eta$, представляющей собой последовательность независимых одинаково распределенных величин. В предположении, что случайные величины $X_{i,j}$ при фиксации среды имеют геометрическое распределение, а приращения $\xi_i$ сопровождающего случайного блуждания имеют среднее $\mu > 0$ и удовлетворяют правостороннему условию Крамера ${\mathbf E}\exp(h\xi_i) < \infty$ при $0<h<h^{+}$ для некоторого $h^{+}$, найдена асимптотика локальных вероятностей ${\mathbf P}( Z_n = \lfloor\exp(\theta n)\rfloor )$ при $\theta \in [\theta_1,\theta_2] \subset (\mu;\mu^+)$ для некоторого $\mu^+$.
Слабое со звездой решение задачи динамической реконструкции
Authors: Subbotina Nina Nikolaevna , Krupennikov Evgenii Alexandrovich
Published: November 2021

Рассматривается задача динамической реконструкции управлений для детерминированных управляемых аффинных систем. Реконструкция производится в реальном времени по известным дискретным неточным замерам наблюдаемой траектории системы, порождаемой неизвестным измеримым управлением со значениями из заданного компактного множества. Приводится корректная постановка задачи реконструкции в слабом со звездой смысле, и предлагается ее решение с помощью вариационного подхода, развиваемого авторами. Этот подход использует вспомогательные вариационные задачи с выпукло-вогнутым лагранжианом, регуляризированным по Тихонову. При этом решение задачи реконструкции сводится к интегрированию гамильтоновых систем обыкновенных дифференциальных уравнений. Приведены условия согласования параметров аппроксимации (параметров точности и частоты замеров траектории, а также вспомогательного регуляризирующего параметра). Показано, что при выполнении этих условий реконструированные управления ограничены, а порождаемые ими траектории динамической системы равномерно сходятся к наблюдаемой траектории.
Алгебры Карно и субримановы структуры с вектором роста (2,$ $3,$ $5,$ $6)
Authors: Sachkov Yurii Leonidovich , Sachkova Elena Fedorovna
Published: November 2021

Описаны все алгебры Карно с вектором роста $(2,3,5,6)$, их нормальные формы, различающий их инвариант и замена базиса, переводящая такую алгебру в нормальную форму. Для каждой нормальной формы вычислены функции Казимира и симплектические слоения на коалгебре Ли. Описаны инвариант и нормальные формы левоинвариантных $(2,3,5,6)$-распределений. Получена классификация всех левоинвариантных субримановых структур на $(2,3,5,6)$-группах Карно с точностью до изометрий, приведены их модели.
Теория управления, целочисленные матрицы и ортогональные полиномы
Authors: Ovseevich Aleksandr Iosifovich
Published: November 2021

В теории управления и теории аппроксимации естественно возникают обратные матрицы к матрицам Грама для стандартного базиса из мономов в пространстве функций, интегрируемых с квадратом по некоторой мере. Например, такая матрица возникает в задаче построения управления по обратной связи, приводящего линейную систему в состояние равновесия, а также в задаче Гильберта о минимальной $L_2$-норме целочисленного многочлена. Для ряда примеров показано, что изучаемая обратная матрица целочисленная и делится на некоторое большое натуральное число. Метод основан на теоретико-числовом изучении естественно связанных с задачей ортогональных полиномов.
Дифференциальные игры в системах дробного порядка: неравенства для производных функционала цены по направлениям
Authors: Gomoyunov Mikhail Igorevich , Lukoyanov Nikolai Yur'evich
Published: November 2021

Для динамической системы, движение которой описывается дифференциальными уравнениями с дробными производными Капуто порядка $\alpha \in (0,1)$, рассмотрена дифференциальная игра на минимакс-максимин заданного показателя качества, оценивающего движение системы на фиксированном конечном промежутке времени. Получены дифференциальные неравенства, характеризующие функционал цены игры в терминах подходящих производных по направлениям.
Association of natural light exposure and delirium according to the presence or absence of windows in the intensive care unit
Authors: Lee Hyo Jin , Bae Eunhye , Lee Hong Yeul , Lee Sang-Min , Lee Jinwoo
Published: November 2021

Background: Patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) have increased risks of delirium, which is associated with worse outcomes. As pharmacologic treatments for delirium are ineffective, prevention is important. Nonpharmacologic preventive strategies include exposure to natural light and restoring circadian rhythm. We investigated the effect of exposure to natural light through windows on delirium in the ICU.Methods: This retrospective cohort study assessed all patients admitted to the medical ICU of a university-affiliated hospital between January and June 2020 for eligibility. The ICU included 12 isolation rooms, six with and six without windows. Patients with ICU stays of >48 hours were included and were divided into groups based on their admission to a single room with (window group) or without windows (windowless group). The primary outcome was the cumulative incidence of delirium. The secondary outcomes were the numbers of delirium- and mechanical ventilation-free days, ICU and hospital length of stay, and in-ICU and 28-day mortalities.Results: Of the 150 included patients (window group: 83 [55.3%]; windowless group: 67 [44.7%]), the cumulative incidence of delirium was significantly lower in the window group than in the windowless group (21.7% vs. 43.3%; relative risk, 1.996; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.220–3.265). Other secondary outcomes did not differ between groups. Admission to a room with a window was independently associated with a decreased risk of delirium (adjusted odds ratio, 0.318; 95% CI, 0.125–0.805).Conclusions: Exposure to natural light through windows was associated with a lower incidence of delirium in the ICU.
Conceptualizing translation in Poland in 2018
Authors: Kuźnik Anna
Published: November 2021

This paper aims to provide an account of our survey on the semiotic nature of the concept of translation among young Polish native speakers. The methodological strategy adopted is a con­structive replication of Sandra Halverson’s survey conducted in Norway in 1997. We claim, in our main hypothesis (stemming from a theoretical background of prototype semantics, which we used for measuring our object), that the concept of translation is not uniform and includes different semiotic types of translation, some of which are perceived as central (prototypical), and others as peripheral. According to our additional hypothesis, young Polish native speakers have a broad notion of translation (encompassing a wide range of intralingual and intersemiotic translations), even broader than their Norwegian counterparts, more than twenty years ago. Our data has been collected in 2018 using a seven-item questionnaire (seven different text pairs) with a seven-value scale from 103 subjects. While the main hypothesis has been confirmed, the additional hypothesis was rejected, with Polish respondents conceiving the concept of translation more narrowly. The methodological format of a replication produced an ambivalent effect: on the one hand, it yielded positive incentive, and on the other hand, it became our principal hindrance.
Medyanın Lise ve Üniversite Öğrencilerinin Siyasi Düşünce ve Tutumlarına Yönelik Etkisi: Çanakkale İli Örneği
Authors: ÇAĞLAK Engin , ÇELİK Tuğçe Sinem , ÇALIK BAĞLAMA Merve
Published: November 2021

Oy verme sürecinde bireyler birçok dış faktörden etkilenmektedir. Bunlardan birisi de medyadır. Medya, geleneksel anlamda ve yeni medya kapsamında, bireyleri her alanda bilgilendirmekte ve bireylerin düşüncelerinin şekillenmesinde bir araç görevi görmektedir. Gençlerin siyasi tercihini hem geleneksel hem de sosyal medya etkilemektedir. Bu çalışma gençleri kullanım oranlarına ve yaşa bağlı olarak, hangi medya türünün daha çok etkilediğini saptamak amacıyla yapılmıştır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda hem üniversite öğrencilerine hem de lise öğrencilerine 31 soruluk bir anket uygulanmıştır. Çalışmanın evrenini Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart Üniversitesi’nde 2019 yılında öğrenim gören 18-25 yaş aralığındaki 150 üniversite ve Çanakkale’de 2019 yılında ikamet eden 13-17 yaş aralığındaki 150 lise öğrencisi oluşturmaktadır. Araştırmanın verileri, 300 ayrı katılımcı ile yapılan anketin nitel yöntem ile analiz edilmesiyle elde edilmiştir. Yapılan anketin içeriğinde, geleneksel medya ve yeni medyanın lise ve üniversite öğrencilerinin oy verme tutumlarına yönelik etkisi üzerine çeşitli kıyaslamalar yapılmış ve öğrencilere bu bağlamda sorular sorulmuştur. Bu çalışma kapsamında, sosyal medyanın geleneksel medyaya oranla hem lise öğrencileri hem de üniversite öğrencilerinin oy verme tutumları üzerinde daha etkili olduğu ortaya çıkmıştır.
Investigating the integrate and fire model as the limit of a random discharge model: a stochastic analysis perspective
Authors: Liu Jian-Guo , Wang Ziheng , Xie Yantong , Zhang Yuan , Zhou Zhennan
Published: November 2021

In the mean field integrate-and-fire model, the dynamics of a typical neuron
within a large network is modeled as a diffusion-jump stochastic process whose
jump takes place once the voltage reaches a threshold. In this work, the main
goal is to establish the convergence relationship between the regularized
process and the original one where in the regularized process, the jump
mechanism is replaced by a Poisson dynamic, and jump intensity within the
classically forbidden domain goes to infinity as the regularization parameter
vanishes. On the macroscopic level, the Fokker-Planck equation for the process
with random discharges (i.e. Poisson jumps) are defined on the whole space,
while the equation for the limit process is on the half space. However, with
the iteration scheme, the difficulty due to the domain differences has been
greatly mitigated and the convergence for the stochastic process and the firing
rates can be established. Moreover, we find a polynomial-order convergence for
the distribution by a re-normalization argument in probability theory. Finally,
by numerical experiments, we quantitatively explore the rate and the asymptotic
behavior of the convergence for both linear and nonlinear models.
Die Freundin. Beziehung und Geschlecht um 1900
Authors: Leyrer Anna
Published: November 2021

Freundschaft galt – philosophisch und historisch gesehen – lange als eine Sache unter Männern. Diese mikrohistorische Fallstudie nähert sich dagegen einem Begriff der Freundin an: Was passiert mit der Freundschaft, wenn sie zwischen Frauen stattfindet? Entlang dreier Beziehungen der Intellektuellen Lou Andreas-Salomé (1861–1937) nimmt Anna Leyrer Fäden des philosophischen Freundschaftsdiskurses auf und verwebt sie neu: Um die Frage nach Gleichheit und Differenz kreist das Gespräch mit der Schriftstellerinnen-Freundin Frieda von Bülow. Mit der Pädagogin Ellen Key und vor dem Hintergrund der Frauenbewegung um 1900 denkt Lou Andreas-Salomé über die Notwendigkeit neuer Bündnisse der Liebe und der Erotik nach. Und zwischen Anna Freud und Andreas-Salomé, die sich als Schwestern bezeichnen, rückt die Spannkraft des Familiären und ihre Bedeutung für die Freundin in den Mittelpunkt.
Unidades de conservação como espaço de ensino de ciências e biologia
Authors: Monteiro Marcelo , Bordin Sandra Mara Sabedot , Busato Maria Assunta
Published: November 2021

As Unidades de Conservação (UC) são essenciais para a proteção da biodiversidade e possuem potencialidades para o desenvolvimento de práticas pedagógicas que facilitam a (re)construção do conhecimento. Este estudo teve como objetivo identificar as percepções de professores sobre o uso das UC como espaço de ensino de Ciências e Biologia. Foi aplicado um questionário estruturado a vinte respondentes. Os resultados indicaram que se houvesse apoio financeiro, pedagógico e melhores condições de trabalhos para os professores, a maioria usaria as UC para o ensino e os motivos são: a biodiversidade, aliar a teoria transposta em sala de aula e prática do campo, e a possibilidade de os estudantes construirem conhecimento a partir de vivências e pensamento crítico. Os professores possuem conhecimento sobre o conceito, funcionalidade e objetivos das UC, entretanto, é insipiente o uso feito desses espaços nas aulas de Ciências e Biologia
A PERSONALIZED TRAVEL RECOMMENDER SYSTEM USING FUZZY ANALYTIC HIERARCHY PROCESS
Authors:   Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Ahmad Sabri Ily Amalina , Mohamad Noor Noor Maizura ,   Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Haji Ali Noraida ,   Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Ismail Fathilah ,   Universiti Malaysia Terengganu
Published: November 2021

Information and communication technologies have deep implications for the tourism industry. This combination of devices is being used extensively in an excessive variety of functions and numerous applications. On the other hand, tourism has become an extremely dynamic system. The globalisation enabled by technological development and budget travel has greatly increased competition. Decision support systems (DSS) can play an important role within organisations and assist people who manage tourist destinations. The main intention of this research paper is to see how to apply Decision Support Systems (DSS) to the tourism industry. It aims to establish a personalised interactive travel recommender system that can be shared and integrated easily in order to work as a proof of concept for the decision to provide the tourism sector with interactive decision support systems. Specifically, the study aims to achieve the following objectives which are to evaluate and measure criteria and alternatives to performance, to analyse the ranking of criteria and alternatives and to recommend tourist attractions in terms of islands, accommodation, activities and etc. based on the travellers’ budget constraints. The evaluation module enables experts to evaluate and consider alternatives to the small islands to benchmark the islands’ performance. An analysis module will provide reports for performance of criteria and alternatives based on a “Best Non-fuzzy Performance” basis. A risk analysis model for the travel recommender system using a fuzzy set approach has been proposed and incorporated into a Fuzzy Decision Support System (FDSS). This study presents fuzzy-AHP as a proposed method to apply to decision-making with social attributes. A web-based prototype Decision Support System (DSS) has been designed and developed in order to prove the objectives.
FACTORS THAT DETERMINE TOURIST’S PURCHASE INTENTION TOWARD KELANTANESE LOCAL CUISINE
Authors:   Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Abd Razak Nurul Fardila , Muhamed Yusoff Abdullah ,   Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Othman Nur Azimah ,   Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Bah Simpong Derweanna ,   Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, Ishak Noriza ,   UiTM Selangor Puncak Alam Campus
Published: November 2021

Local foods are one of the cravings of travelers wanting to experience the joys of domestic tourism. Some of the other reasons tourists visit a place is to experience the lifestyle, and culture. Besides these motivational factors, tourist visit places based on word -of- mouth and their own past experiences. The state of Kelantan, Malaysia is identified as a vibrant tourist destination as it has beautiful natural environs and has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that is easy to promote to tourists. Kelantan is also well known for its local cuisines that can attract the foodies. The uniqueness of the local cuisine also influences tourists to make other purchases. Using the quantitative research approach, this study aims to identify the relationship between food quality, price, and service quality towards the tourists intention to purchase local cuisine in Kelantan. These three independent variables will have a different role in explaining the factors that influence a tourist’s intent to purchase Kelantanese foodstuff.
ANALYSIS OF VISITORS’ EXPERIENCES AT THE OLD MELBOURNE GAOL
Authors:   Holmes Institute, Melbourne, Australia, Viet Le Anh , Huong Nguyen Thu ,   Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia, Cruz May Raquel Sadiasa ,   The Hotel School - Southern Cross University, Melbourne, Australia
Published: November 2021

Visitation to the dark past of history is growing where more tourist is confronting concepts of mortality. Still, it appears to have minimal research on dark tourist experiences in the context of prison museums, particularly the Old Melbourne Gaol. The aim of the research is to analyse visitors’ experiences and provide recommendation for improvement. The relevance of the research is understanding dark tourist experiences will give insight into how service offerings can be improved in prison museums. The researcher conducted a qualitative study using thematic analysis to understand visitor experiences better and provide recommendation for future visitation. Purposive sampling was used to explore mixed reviews from the widely used platform called TripAdvisor. One of the key findings is that most visitors are international tourists accompanied by family or friends visiting towards the end of the year, which means that service offerings should be geared towards this group. Furthermore, the overall visitor experience is positive, and emerging themes narrates the authenticity of carceral life, interactive experience and exciting reenactments at the Old Melbourne Goal. Lastly, the findings reveal the need to reconsider the role of customer service as it influences the overall satisfaction of visitors and strengthen substantial aspects of service offerings to increase visitation and enhance the visitor experience.
THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SERVICE FAILURE, SERVICE RECOVERY AND AIRLINE PASSENGER SATISFACTION
Authors:   Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Padlee Siti Falindah , Zamri Nurul Athira Izzati ,   Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Mohamed Wan Norhayati ,   Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Ismail Fathilah ,   Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Zulkiffli Siti Nur `Atikah ,   Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Hussin Noor Zatul Iffah ,   Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Mohamad Zaleha ,   Universiti Malaysia Terengganu
Published: November 2021

Service failures and the following service recovery of a firm can greatly influence customer satisfaction, customer loyalty and the relationship quality with the firm, regardless of other firm’s efforts to establish strong relationships with its customers in the long run. Airlines in particular are struggling with several obstacles concerning their business continuity and ability to survive. One of the obstacles is the fact that they are subject to inevitable service failures which are unavoidable. Meanwhile, the concept of potent service recovery has become extremely vital in terms of retaining customer satisfaction. This research paper examines the relationship of service failures and service recovery and passenger satisfaction. The data was collected from domestic passengers at the Sultan Mahmud Airport in Terengganu. The relationships among the variables of the study were supported. Based on the findings of this study, it is suggested that the airline management team and staff plan an effective recovery mechanisms to rectify service failures
CUSTOMER RESTAURANT SELECTION FACTORS IN VEGAN RESTAURANTS: AN EVALUATION OF ONLINE REVIEWS IN MELBOURNE VEGAN RESTAURANTS
Authors:   Holmes Institute, Melbourne, Australia, Viet Le Anh , Huong Nguyen Thu ,   Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia, Hernandez Joel Francis F. ,   The Hotel School - Southern Cross University, Melbourne, Australia
Published: November 2021

Restaurants are constantly adapting towards customers’ wants and needs. Vegan restaurants have become increasingly popular, particularly in Melbourne, which is one of the fastest growing vegan markets in the world. While there is literature and evidence of restaurant selection factors in general restaurants, there are no specific studies in vegan restaurants. The aim of this study is to determine the customer restaurant selection factors in vegan restaurants by way of a qualitative content analysis of 5 popular Melbourne vegan restaurants with 10 reviews each. This study found that similar to general restaurants that serve meat, vegan restaurants are chosen mainly because of their food quality and service quality. Vegan restaurants must continue to build on the quality of their food and prioritize putting the same amount of focus on service quality, as poor service quality can completely tarnish the entire dining experience.