bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical and radiological outcomes of extracranial carotid artery stent placement: A single-center study
Authors: Duran Selcen , Alparslan Burcu , Bakar Mustafa , Hakyemez Bahattin
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

Carotid artery stenting (CAS) and carotid endarterectomy are established treatments for carotid artery stenosis. We evaluated the early and mid- to late-term clinical and radiological outcomes of patients who underwent CAS.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective study included 98 patients (112 arteries), who underwent CAS. Baseline demographics, stent types, embolic protection devices, and procedural complication rates within 30-day and 3-year post-CAS, including transient ischemic attack (TIA), stroke, death, and stent restenosis, were analyzed.

Results:

The 30-day complication rates included TIA (5.1%), ipsilateral stroke (4.1%), and death (4.1%). At three-year follow-up, TIA (8.5%), ipsilateral stroke (2.1%), restenosis (1.1%), and death (6.4%) were observed. Contralateral carotid artery angiography revealed neointimal hyperplasia in two vessels (1.9%) and 70–99% restenosis 1 (1%). Notably, a significant association was observed between neointimal hyperplasia and stent geometry, with a higher incidence observed in open-cell stents compared to closed-cell stents (P = 0.03).

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrated comparable early-term and lower mid- to late-term complication rates compared to prior studies. A multidisciplinary approach with meticulous technique, appropriate materials, and careful patient selection can optimize CAS outcomes.
Dual benefits of scleral lenses in collateral cases of Stevens-Johnson syndrome and Keratoconus-A case series
Authors: Subramanian Karpagavalli
Published: April 2024

Scleral lenses (SL) are larger diameter lenses that rest over the scleral, unlike the corneal lenses. These lenses are fitted to not touch the cornea by creating a space that will be filled with sterile isotonic fluid. Indications of SL include corneal ectatic conditions such as keratoconus (KC), pellucid marginal degeneration,and ocular surface disorders such as dry eye (DE), Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), and graft-versus-host disease. Corneal ectasia in SJS has been rarely reported but still exists, which causes severe DE, photophobia, and blurred vision. In such a scenario, SL is an ideal treatment option as they provide constant lubrication to the ocular surface and better visual acuity. This report witnessed the effectiveness of SL in SJS associated with KC – a rare combination.
Methodological Activity of the Republican Youth Library of Tatarstan
Authors: Valiullina Nailya R. , Shaitanova Natalia A.
Published: April 2024

In recent decades libraries have faced global societal and technological challenges. At the same time, the state support of Russian librarianship is increasing. Libraries have every opportunity for development, they are becoming even more in demand and modern.

The Russian Government Order No. 608-r of March 13, 2021 approved the “Strategy for the Development of Librarianship in the Russian Federation until 2030”, which served as a powerful impetus for the improvement of the country’s libraries. “Strategy...” is aimed at comprehensive development of librarianship, modernization of the library system of Russia, preservation and replenishment of library collections, expansion of free and equal access of citizens to information, improvement of the quality of library staff training, introduction of information technologies. The need for scientific and methodological support of library activities is also taken into account. In 2022, the professional standard “Specialist in Library and Information Activities” was approved, which establishes unified requirements for the content and quality of professional activities of specialists in all functional areas of the library.

Federal and regional libraries as focal points for other types and kinds of libraries accepted the challenge to change and revised their activities.

The library network of the Republic of Tatarstan includes 1508 libraries. The state programme “Development of Culture of the Republic of Tatarstan” was adopted in the region. The experience of the Republican Youth Library as a methodological and coordinating center of libraries of the Republic of Tatarstan working with youth, as well as a project office for the creation of model municipal libraries in the Republic of Tatarstan is presented.
CIS Cross-Border Libraries: Updating the Concept Paper to Strengthen Co-Operation
Authors: Menshchikova Svetlana P.
Published: April 2024

The experience of the Russian State Library in cooperation with the libraries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) member states in developing a document regulating cross-border co-operation is presented. It shows the stages of updating the “Concept of Information and Library Space Formation on the Basis of Cross-border Libraries of the CIS Member States” (2009) within the framework of the long-term interstate project of the Eurasia Library Assembly on creation of the normative and conceptual basis of interlibrary cooperation in the CIS. The “Concept...” is harmonised with the universally recognised principles and norms of international law. It reflects the process of inclusion of libraries of border regions of CIS member states in co-operation with libraries of neighbouring countries. Specialists of CIS libraries took an active part in the development of the document. The Concept of Development of Library and Information Space on the Basis of Cross-Border Libraries of CIS Member States (2023) clarifies the purpose and some basic concepts related to the activities of libraries in cross-border cooperation. The definition of “library and information space on the basis of cross-border libraries of the CIS member states” was developed, which is considered as a system of interacting subjects — libraries, library networks, library associations, library staff. The aim of library and information space development is to provide conditions for strengthening interregional and cross-border co-operation. Libraries create and promote various information resources, organise library and information services for the multinational population of border areas to enhance intercultural and professional communication. In the document 2023 the possibilities of subjects of interlibrary cooperation are expanded at the expense of interregional cooperation. The following are defined as subjects of the library and information space: publicly accessible border libraries of the CIS member states, central universal libraries of the border regions, national libraries of the CIS member states. The updated “Concept...” shows the tasks and principles of development, mechanisms and expected results of its implementation. The role of the CIS coordinating bodies in the formation of legislative and regulatory framework for the libraries of the CIS member states is important. Prospects for improving this base lie in the regulation of interregional and cross-border co-operation. To strengthen cooperation it is necessary to reveal the intercultural potential of the CIS member states, to provide scientific and methodological support to cross-border libraries, etc.
Interaction, Integration, Sectoral and Corporate Projects: Results of the All-Russian Library Forum
Authors: Ivanova Elena A.
Published: April 2024

The Annual Meeting of Heads of Federal and Central Regional Libraries of Russia was held in Moscow on November 28—29, 2023. The event was organized by the Ministry of Culture of the Russian Federation, the Russian State Library and the Russian National Library. The Russian State Children’s Library took part in the preparation and holding of the meeting.

The participants of the largest forum in the industry were heads and specialists from all eight federal districts of Russia (Central, North-West, South, North Caucasus, Volga, Ural, Siberian, Far East). Colleagues from the Donetsk People’s Republic, Lugansk People’s Republic, Zaporozhye region and Kherson region made presentations. 77 regions of the Russian Federation were represented at the meeting. Specialists from the Republic of Serbia were also participants in the event. The meeting was held in a hybrid format, allowing for both in-person and remote participation. Over the two days of its work, 300 in-person participants and 3,724 remote participants were registered.

The main theme of the Annual Meeting of Heads of Federal and Central Regional Libraries of Russia 2024 was “Working together to create a successful future for libraries: sectoral projects, interaction, integration, sharing best practices”. The programme included five main thematic blocks: “Together. Integration of libraries of the new subjects of the Russian Federation into the library space of the country: plans and ongoing projects”, seminar-meeting “Educational and personnel policy of the industry”, “Development of the library fund: acquisition, disclosure, preservation”, “Digital transformation, artificial intelligence, neural networks for libraries, formation of the Russian electronic knowledge space”, “Modernization of libraries”.

The topics discussed and the number of participants in the meeting in recent years testify to the increasing consolidation of the industry and the unflagging interest in this event.
Solid-state cathode heterogeneity impact on utilization and fracture dynamics
Authors: Park Se Hwan , Yescas Carlos Juarez , Naik Kaustubh , Wang Yingjin , Luo Yuting , Puthusseri Dhanya , Kwon Patrick , Vishnugopi Bairav S. , Shyam Badri , Yang Heng , Cook John , Okasinki John , Chaung Andrew , Xiao Xianghui , Greer Julia , Mukherjee Partha P. , Zahiri Beniamin , Braun Paul , Hatzell Kelsey
Published: April 2024

Structural heterogeneity in solid-state batteries can impact material utilization and fracture mechanisms. Dense crystallographically oriented lithium cobalt oxide cathodes serve as a model electrode system for exploring how density variability contributes to stress relief and build up during cycling. Real- and reciprocal-space operando and ex-situ synchrotron based experiments are utilized to understand structural changes across multiple length scales contribute to stress generation and fracture. Nanotomography uncovers a depth-dependent porosity variation in the pristine electrode and highlights preferential fracture in regions of lower porosity during delithiation. Energy-dispersive X-ray diffraction and 3D X-ray absorption near-edge spectroscopy (XANES) reveal the underutilization of cathode material in these regions. 3D XANES also confirms preferential delithiation near the subgrain boundaries. Chemo-mechanical modeling coupled with site-specific mechanical characterization demonstrate how stress accumulation in dense regions of the electrode leads to fracture and underutilization of active material. Our findings reveal the importance of materials design to alleviate stress in small-volume changing cathodes.
Lewis Acid-Catalyzed Unusual (4+3) Annulation of para-Quinone Methides with Bicyclobutanes: Access to Oxabicyclo [4.1.1]octanes
Authors: Deswal Shiksha , Guin Avishek , Biju A T
Published: April 2024

Over the past few years, there has been a surge of interest in the chemistry of bicyclobutanes (BCBs). Although BCBs have been used to synthesize bicyclo[2.1.1]hexanes and bicyclo[3.1.1]heptanes, the synthesis of bicyclo[4.1.1]octanes has re-mained elusive. Herein, we report the first Lewis acid-catalyzed unexpected (4+3) annulation of para-quinonemethides (p-QMs) with BCBs allowing the synthesis of oxabicyclo[4.1.1]octanes proceeding under mild conditions. With 5 mol % of Bi(OTf)3, the reaction afforded the (4+3) annulated product in high regioselectivity and good functional group compatibility via a simultaneous Lewis acid activation of BCBs and p-QMs. The reaction is likely initiated by the 1,6-addition of Lewis acid activated BCBs to p-QMs followed by the C2-selective intramolecular addition of the phenol moiety to the generated cyclobutyl cation intermediate. Moreover, detailed mechanistic studies provided insight into the mechanism of the reaction.
Fluorescence imaging using deep-red Indocyanine Blue (ICB) a complementary partner for near infrared Indocyanine Green (ICG)
Authors: Gamage Rananjaya , Smith Bradley
Published: April 2024

Indocyanine Blue (ICB) is the deep-red, pentamethine analogue of the widely used clinical near-infrared heptamethine cyanine dye, Indocyanine Green (ICG). The two fluorophores have the same number of functional groups and molecular charge and vary only by a single vinylene unit in the polymethine chain which produces a predictable difference in spectral and physicochemical properties. We find that the two dyes can be employed as a complementary pair in diverse types of fundamental and applied fluorescence imaging experiments. A fundamental fluorescence spectroscopy study used ICB and ICG to test a recently proposed FRET mechanism for enhanced fluorescence brightness in heavy water (D2O). The results support two important corollaries of the proposal, (a) the strategy of using heavy water to increase the brightness of fluorescent dyes for microscopy or imaging is most effective when the dye emission band is above 650 nm, and (b) the magnitude of the heavy water florescence enhancement effect for near-infrared ICG is substantially diminished when the ICG surface is dehydrated due to binding by albumin protein. Two applied fluorescence imaging studies demonstrated how deep-red ICB can be combined with a near-infrared fluorophore for paired agent imaging in the same living subject. One study used dual-channel mouse imaging to visualize increased blood flow in a model of inflamed tissue, and a second mouse tumor imaging study simultaneously visualized the vasculature and cancerous tissue in separate fluorescence channels. The results suggest that ICB and ICG can be incorporated within multicolor fluorescence imaging methods for perfusion imaging and hemodynamic characterization in a wide range of diseases.
Dynamic Behavior and Substrate Interactions of the Polymyxin Resistance Determinant MCR-1 Investigated by Extended Molecular Dynamics Simulations in the Membrane Environment
Authors: Lythell Emily , Suardíaz Reynier , Hinchliffe Philip , Oliveira Sofia , van der Kamp Marc , Spencer James , Mulholland Adrian
Published: April 2024

The polymyxin colistin is an agent of last resort for treatment of severe infections by multiresistant Gram-negative opportunistic bacteria. Colistin resistance arises through covalent modification of lipid A disaccharide by phosphoethanolamine (PEtN) transferases, preventing colistin interaction. The Mobile Colistin Resistance (MCR) PEtN transferase is a plasmid-borne enzyme that is the major cause of colistin resistance in Escherichia coli, the most important antimicrobial resistant bacterial pathogen worldwide. Bacterial PEtN transferases like MCR comprise periplasmic catalytic and integral membrane domains, with mechanistic understanding largely based on studies of the former with limited information on the full-length enzyme. Previous investigations of a Neisseria meningitidis PEtN transferase identified that the catalytic domain can effectively dissociate from the transmembrane component and instead make extensive contacts with the membrane surface. Here we report extended molecular dynamics simulations of a model of full-length MCR-1, in a representative membrane comprising 80% of a PEtN donor substrate palmitoyloleoyl phosphoethanolamine (POPE) that explore the dynamic behavior of the enzyme and the impact upon it of zinc stoichiometry and of PEtN addition to the Thr285 acceptor residue. The results identify only limited movement of the two domains relative to one another, and that POPE can bind the likely “resting” state of the enzyme (mono-zinc with unmodified Thr285) in an orientation compatible with PEtN transfer to Thr285. Our data suggest domain motions in bacterial PEtN transferases to be condition-dependent and support a proposed “ping - pong” reaction mechanism with the mono-zinc enzyme competent to undertake the first stage.
Biocompatible Cobalt Oxide Nanoparticles for X-ray Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Scott Christian , Miller Sophia , Moenne-Loccoz Pierre , Barnes Craig Eliot , Ralle Martina
Published: April 2024

The synthesis of water-soluble nanoparticles is a well-developed field for ferrite-based nanoparticles with the majority consisting of iron oxide or mixed metal iron oxide nanoparticles. However, the synthesis of non-agglomerated non-ferrite metal/metal oxide NPs is not as well established. The synthesis and characterization of uniform 20 nm, biologically compatible cobalt oxide (CoO) nanoparticles (NPs) is described. These nanoparticles have two principle components: 1) a CoO core of suitable size to contain enough cobalt atoms to be visualized by X-ray fluorescence microscopy (XFM) and 2) a robust coating that inhibits NP aggregation as well as renders them water-soluble and biocompatible (i.e. stealth coatings). Stable cobalt oxide NPs are obtained with octadecyl amine coatings as reported by Bhattacharjee. Two strategies for solubilizing these NPs in water were investigated with varying degrees of success. Exchanging the octadecyl amine coating for a nitrodopamine anchored PEG coating yielded the desired water-soluble NPs but in very low yield. Alternately, leaving the octadecyl amine coating on the NP and interdigitating this with a maleic anhydride-vinyl copolymer with different hydrophobic sidechains followed by opening the maleic anhydride ring with amine substituted PEG polymers (the water solubilizing component), yielded the desired water soluble NPS were obtained in good yield. Characterization data for the nanoparticles and the components of the coatings required for bioorthogonal reactions to ligate them with biotargeting agents are also described.
A Macrocyclic Parallel Dimer Showing Quantum Coherence of Quintet Multiexcitons at Room Temperature
Authors: Ishii Wataru , Fuki Masaaki , M Bu Ali Eman , Sato Shunsuke , Parmar Bhavesh , Yamauchi Akio , Helenna Mulyadi Catherine , Uji Masanori , Medina Rivero Samara , Watanabe Go , Clark Jenny , Kobori Yasuhiro , Yanai Nobuhiro
Published: April 2024

Singlet fission (SF) is a promising approach in quantum information science because it can generate spin-entangled quintet triplet pairs by photoexcitation independent of temperature. However, it is still challenging to rationally achieve quantum coherence at room temperature, which requires precise control of the orientation and dynamics of triplet pairs. Here we show that the quantum coherence of quintet multiexcitons can be achieved at room temperature by arranging two pentacene chromophores in parallel and close proximity within a macrocycle. By making dynamic covalent Schiff-base bonds between aldehyde-modified pentacene derivatives, macrocyclic parallel dimer-1 (MPD-1) can be selectively synthesized in a high yield. MPD-1 exhibits fast sub-picosecond SF in polystyrene film and generates spin-polarized quintet multiexcitons. Furthermore, the coherence time T2 of the MPD-1 quintet is as long as 400 ns even at room temperature. This macrocyclic parallel dimer strategy opens up new possibilities for future quantum applications using molecular multilevel qubits.
Ditopic ligand effects on solution-phase equilibria and electrochemistry of atomically precise copper chalcogenide nanoclusters
Authors: Trenerry Michael , Bailey Gwendolyn
Published: April 2024

Atomically precise copper chalcogenide nanoclusters are an exceptionally diverse class of nanomaterials with potential applications in chemiluminescence, sensing, and catalysis. However, most previously reported nanoclusters have been characterized exclusively in the solid state, leaving open questions as to their stability and function in solution. In this work, we report the first detailed solution-phase investigation of speciation, electrochemistry, and decomposition of atomically precise [Cu12S6] supported by a series of mono- and ditopic alkyldiphenylphosphines PPh2R (R = Et, -(CH2)5-, -(CH2)8-). While electronically identical, this series of ligands features monotopic and ditopic binding modes spanning zero, one, or three axes of the [Cu12S6] core, facilitating an in-depth examination of the impact of phosphine binding topology on solution behaviour. We find that binding topology dictates the extent of speciation, with complete solution stability being afforded through use of the longer octane chelate dppo (1,8-bis(diphenylphosphino)octane). Thus, the 1H and DOSY NMR spectra of [Cu12S6(dppo)4] indicate a rigid, stereochemically locked ligand configuration in which substantial stabilizing CH---S interactions are present. Meanwhile, electrochemical analysis coupled with DFT calculations indicates that the [Cu12S6] core undergoes a quasireversible one-electron oxidation at –0.50 V vs Fc0/+. In contrast, prolonged air exposure or treatment with chemical oxidants results in cluster degradation with formation of phosphine sulfide byproducts. This work demonstrates both progress and challenges in controlling the solution-phase behaviour and redox chemistry of phosphine-supported copper chalcogenide nanoclusters.
Validation of the identification reliability of known and assumed UDMH transformation products using gas chromatographic retention indices and machine learning
Authors: Karnaeva Anastasia , Sholokhova Anastasia
Published: April 2024

Thirty two commercially available standards were used to determine chromatographic retention indices (RIs) for three different stationary phases. The selected compounds were nitrogen-containing heterocycles and amides, which are unsymmetrical dimethylhydrazine (UDMH) transformation products or its assumed transformation products. UDMH is a highly toxic compound widely used in the space industry, that forms a number of different compounds in the environment. Well-known transformation products may exceed UDMH itself in their toxicity, but most of the products are poorly investigated, while posing a huge environmental threat. Experimental RIs for the stationary phases, RIs from the NIST database, and predicted RIs are presented in this paper. It is shown that there are virtually no RIs for UDMH transformation products in the NIST database. In addition, even among those compounds for which RIs were known, inconsistencies were identified. Adding RIs to the database and eliminating erroneous data would allow for more reliable identification when standards are not available. The discrepancies identified between experimental RI values and predicted values will allow for adjustments to the machine learning models that are used for prediction. Previously proposed compounds as possible transformation products without the use of standards and NMR method were confirmed.
Charting electron beam-induced lattice reorientation in molecular nanocrystals
Authors: Vlahakis Niko , Clauss Arden , Rodriguez Jose
Published: April 2024

High-energy electrons induce sample damage and motion at the nanoscale to fundamentally limit determination of molecular structures by electron diffraction. Using fast event-based electron counting (EBEC) detectors, we characterize electron beam-induced crystal lattice reorientations (BIR) that appear to broadly affect molecular microcrystals. These lattice reorientations are sufficiently large to bring reflections entirely in or out of excitation, occur as early events in the decay of diffracted signal due to radiolytic damage, and coincide with beam-induced migrations of crystal bend contours within the same fluence regime and at the same illuminated location on a crystal. These effects are observed in crystals of biotin, a series of amino acid metal chelates, and a six-residue peptide, suggesting that incident electrons inevitably warp molecular lattices. The precise orientation changes experienced by a given microcrystal are unpredictable, but are measurable by indexing individual diffraction patterns during beam-induced decay. Often, reorientations can tilt a crystal lattice several degrees away from its initial position, and for an especially beam-sensitive Zn(II)-methionine chelate, are associated with dramatic crystal quakes prior to 1 e-/Å2 exposure. As BIR is coincident with the early stages of beam-induced damage, it echoes the beam-induced motion observed in single particle cryoEM. As with motion correction for cryoEM imaging experiments, correction of BIR-induced errors during data processing could improve the accuracy of MicroED data.
Paired Electrolysis Enables Reductive Heck Coupling of Unacti-vated (Hetero)Aryl Halides and Alkenes
Authors: Lai Yihuan , Milner Phillip
Published: April 2024

The formation of carbon-carbon (C–C) bonds is a cornerstone of organic synthesis. Among various methods to construct Csp2–Csp3 bonds, the reductive Heck reaction between (hetero)aryl halides and alkenes stands out due to its potential efficiency and broad substrate availability. However, traditional reductive Heck reactions are limited by the use of pre-cious metal catalysts and/or limited aryl halide and alkene compatibility. Here, we present an electrochemically mediat-ed, metal- and catalyst-free reductive Heck reaction that tolerates both unactivated (hetero)aryl halides and diverse al-kenes such as vinyl boronates. Detailed electrochemical and deuterium-labeling studies support that this transformation likely proceeds through a paired electrolysis pathway, in which acid generated by the oxidation of N,N-diisopropylethylamine (DIPEA) at the anode intercepts an alkyl carbanion formed after radical-polar crossover at the cathode. As such, this approach offers a sustainable method for the construction of Csp2–Csp3 bonds from (hetero)aryl halides and alkenes, paving the way for the development of other electrochemically mediated olefin difunctionalization reactions.
Research on the Intellectual History of Chinese Journalism and Communication from the Perspective of Media: 2017—2023
Authors: 胡 翼青 , 沙 璨
Published: April 2024

本文梳理了2017年以来中国新闻传播思想史的发展轨迹。研究发现,自2017年学界开始尝试以媒介作为新闻传播学独特学科视角以来,无论是传统的新闻传播思想史研究,还是新闻史和媒介史研究,都发生了不同程度的媒介理论转型。其中,又以媒介物质性与媒介本体论的理论叙事所取得的成就最为突出。这一系列的学术成就似乎在提醒我们,应以本土媒介实践为抓手,为新闻传播思想史研究创造新的阐释空间与对话可能,从而为建构中国新闻传播学的自主知识体系奠定基础。关键词 新闻传播思想史;媒介入射角;自主
Dynamics of heart rhythm disorders in combatants with acute myocarditis during a 6-month follow-up
Authors: Nesukay E.G. , Kovalenko V.M. , Cherniuk S.V. , Kirichenko R.M. , Frolov A.I. , Slyvna A.B.
Published: April 2024

The main factors of an unfavorable prognosis, are life-threatening heart rhythm disorders which determine the severity of the clinical course of myocarditis, in addition to impaired contractility and dilatation of the left ventricle (LV). The aim of the study was to assess the frequency and nature of arrhythmias and establish predictors of their long-term persistence, assess the severity of anxiety and depression, changes in heart rate variability in combatants on the background of changes in the structural and functional state of the left ventricle during a 6-month follow-up. The study included 52 male servicemen (combatants) with acute myocarditis (AM) with an average age of 33.4±2.5 years. All patients were assessed by Questionnaire according to the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) and underwent 24 hour ECG monitoring, transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) with late enhancement using gadovist. At the onset of AM frequent supraventricular (30.7% of cases) and frequent ventricular (42.3% of cases) extrasystolic arrhythmia, as well as paroxysms of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia (26.9% of cases) on the background of heart rhythm variability disorders were recorded. After 6 months, there was an improvement in the structural and functional state of the heart, which was characterized by a decrease in dilatation and an improvement of LV systolic function, a decrease in the volume of the inflammatory lesion and the total number of affected LV segments revealed on cardiac MRI, which was associated with a decrease in the number of ventricular rhythm disorders and reduction of clinical manifestations of anxiety according to the HADS scale. The obtained data indicate that the persistence of supraventricular rhythm disorders is associated with the long-term presence of anxiety and low values of standard deviation of RR intervals (SDNN) and root mean square of successive differences between normal heartbeats (RMSSD). Also predictors of persistence of non-sustained ventricular tachycardia paroxysms were established – SDNN value ≤80.0 ms, LV end-diastolic volume index ≥95 ml/m2, total number of affected LV segments ≥6 segments, presence of delayed contrasting in ≥3 LV segments, pre­sence of ≥12 points on the HADS scale and predictors of atrial fibrillation – SDNN value ≤80.0 ms, RMSSD value ≤12.0 ms, total number of affected segments of LV≥6 seg. and ≥12 points on the HADS anxiety scale, determined at the onset of AM.
Comorbidity and extra pulmonary manifestations in hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease (COVID-19) depending on age and sex
Authors: Kuryata O.V. , Semenov V.V. , Fetkhi S. , Frolova Ye.O.
Published: April 2024

Nowadays, knowledge about the causal relationships between concomitant chronic diseases and the course of coronavirus infection (COVID-19) can make a huge contribution to saving the lives of patients. Determining the impact of concomitant pathology on the severity of the course of COVID-19 will contribute to the identification and assessment of the risk of deterioration of the condition, as well as the implementation of preventive measures in high-risk individuals (vaccination). The aim of the work was to assess the influence of age and sex on the presence of comorbid pathology and the course of the disease in patients who were hospitalized with community-acquired viral pneumonia associated with COVID-19. We carried out a retrospective analysis of the case histories of 260 patients with community-acquired pneumonia associated with coronavirus disease, who were treated in the therapeutic departments of the Covid Center of ME “Dnipropetrovsk regional clinical hospital named after Mechnikov” DRC in 2020-2021. (September-December 2020, January- December 2021), single-center study. All patients included in the analysis underwent general clinical and laboratory methods of research regulated by national recommendations for the management of patients with COVID-19, PCR tests (polymerase chain reaction) for verification of coronavirus disease, CT(computed tomography)/radiography of the lungs. Comorbidity was assessed as the development of the disease before the onset / verification of coronavirus disease according to a patient survey recorded in medical records. One or more comorbid conditions were recorded in 195 (75%) patients. Multimorbidity was recorded in 111 (56.9%) patients from the total number of patients with COVID-19 and comorbid pathology. Analyzing the influence of gender in patients with comorbid pathology, men were significantly more likely to have coronary artery disease (CAD) (p=0.04) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (p=0.04). A significant difference in age among hospitalized patients with a diagnosis of COVID-19 was revealed, depending on sex (p<0.001). So at the age of up to 65 years, male patients predominated (60.4%), over the age of 65 years – women (68.9%). There was no significant difference in the frequency of occurrence of moderate severity and severe course of the disease of COVID-19, depending on age and sex. At the age of over 65, the presence of type 2 diabetes (p<0.001), hypertension (R<0.001), coronary artery disease (p<0.001) and COPD (p<0.001) was significantly more common.
The analysis of dynamics of physical accessibility of pharmaceutical aid in Ukraine
Authors: Koval V.M. , Kryvoviaz O.V.
Published: April 2024

The level of development of the country's health care system can be assessed in different ways, in particular by the level of pharmaceutical aid provision to the population. The quality of pharmaceutical aid for the population depends on many factors, including physical accessibility and the number of pharmacies located in a certain area. The aim of the work was to study the dynamics of changes in the physical accessibility of pharmaceutical aid provision for the population and changes in the number of pharmacies in Ukraine during 2017–2022. Annual reports of the State Service of Ukraine for medicinal products and drug control, regarding licensees in the field of economic activity in the production of medicines, wholesale and retail trade of medicinal products, circulation of drugs have been used for the analysis of dynamics. It was established that the pandemic of the coronavirus disease, which was caused by the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) coronavirus, and the full-scale invasion of the Russian Federation had a significant impact on the development of the pharmaceutical market in Ukraine according to the results of the study. There is a general tendency to decrease the number of economic entities conducting their activities in the retail trade of medicines, while simultaneous increasing the places of activity, which may indicate the globalization of the pharmaceutical market. However, it can also cause a reduction in the quality of the competitive environment and limit the choice of pharmaceutical aid providers by patients. Thus, in the studied period, the number of economic entities decreased by more than 1,400. The number of pharmaceutical establishments engaged in the compounding of medicinal products also decreased significantly, by 23.5%. The total number of economic entities engaged in activities related to the circulation of narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances and precursors also decreased significantly, which definitely worsened the physical availability of this group of drugs.
Perifolliculitis capitis abscedens et suffodiens: features of diagnostics and approaches to treatment
Authors: Statkevych O.L. , Svyatenko T.V.
Published: April 2024

The article presents a clinical case of the abscessing perifolliculitis of the head. Nowadays due to socio-economic circumstances, there is an increase in the number of patients with abscessing perifolliculitis of the head. Among the triggering factors are emergency conditions associated with chronic stress, poor hygiene, and the need to use special clothing and head protection in military personnel, which cause initial occlusion in the scalp area. Treatment is usually difficult and often unsuccessful, with regular relapses after treatment is stopped. However, the issues of diagnosing abscessing perifolliculitis of the head remain relevant and extremely difficult in the clinical practice of dermatologists and related specialists, and a single treatment protocol with clear recommendations has not yet been developed. All of the above determines the need to study the specifics of clinical and morphological manifestations in patients suffering from abscessing perifolliculitis of the head with the further aim of pathogenetic substantiation and development of complex therapy. The article aimed to improve the diagnosis and treatment of the abscessing perifolliculitis of the head by studying the clinical and anamnestic features and the course of the disease on the example of a clinical case with further implementation of recommendations in clinical practice.
Antena Mikrostrip MIMO dengan Teknik Planar Series Array 4x2 elemen untuk Sistem Komunikasi 5G
Authors: ALAM SYAH , SURJATI INDRA , NINGSIH YULI KURNIA , SARI LYDIA , SURYADI SURYADI , MARDIAN RADEN DEINY , FIRMANSYAH TEGUH , ZAKARIA ZAHRILADHA , ASTUTI DIAN WIDI
Published: April 2024

ABSTRAKMakalah ini mengusulkan antena mikrostrip dengan dengan performansi tinggi yang beroperasi pada frekuensi resonansi 3,5 GHz untuk sistem komunikasi 5G. Antena dikembangkan dalam dengan teknik array planar seri 4x2 elemen yang dikonfigurasi MIMO. Berdasarkan hasil pengukuran, antena yang dirancang memiliki koefisien refleksi <= -10 dB, koefisien isolasi <= -40 dB dengan rentang frekuensi 3.1 GHz – 3,7 GHz dan gain maksimum sebesar 12,52 dB pada frekuensi resonansi 3,5 GHz. Bandwidth dan penguatan antena masing-masing meningkat sebesar 172.72% dan 160.83 %. Penelitian ini dapat direkomendasikan untuk digunakan sebagai antena penerima sistem komunikasi 5G.Kata kunci: antena, array, mikrostrip, MIMO, planar, 5G ABSTRACTThis article suggests a microstrip antenna with high performance, designed to operate at the resonant frequency of 3.5 GHz in 5G communication systems. The antenna is developed in a MIMO-configured 4x2 element series planar array technique. Based on measurement results, the proposed antenna exhibits a reflection coefficient of <= -10 dB, an isolation coefficient of <= -40 dB, within the frequency range 3.1 – 3.7 GHz and maximum gain of 12.52 dB at the resonant frequency of 3.5 GHz. The antenna's bandwidth and gain enhanced until 172.72% and 160.83%, respectively. This study suggests the potential use of the developed antenna as a reception device in 5G communication systems.Keywords: antenna, array, microstrip, MIMO, planar, 5G
Penerapan Algoritma Gradient Boosting pada Sinyal EEG sebagai Pengendali Kursi Roda
Authors: DARMAWAN GERARLDO INDRA , SARTIKA ERWANI MERRY , CHANDRA ERIC , BR. PASARIBU NOVIE THERESIA , ANDRIANTO HERI
Published: April 2024

ABSTRAKBerdasarkan data Badan Penduduk Statistik (BPS) tahun 2019, jumlah penduduk lanjut usia yaitu 23,4 juta dan 26,2% diantaranya mengalami keluhan kesehatan. Beberapa keluhan kesehatan yang dialami berkaitan dengan mobilitas. Kursi roda merupakan salah satu alat bantu yang kerap digunakan oleh penyandang disabilitas atau seseorang yang memiliki keterbatasan mobilitas. Brain-Computer Interface digunakan sebagai sistem kendali kursi roda menggunakan Raspberry Pi berdasarkan masukan berupa sinyal EEG. Sinyal EEG tersebut digunakan untuk memprediksi perintah otak dan rangsangan gerakan bola mata dengan menerapkan algoritma gradient boosting. Hasil prediksi machine learning merupakan set point untuk menjalankan motor DC sehingga kursi roda dapat bergerak berdasarkan hasil prediksi. Sistem BCI pada kursi roda telah dilakukan uji coba, integrasi BCI pada kursi roda berhasil diterapkan dengan persentase keberhasilan sebesar 60%.Kata kunci: BCI, Machine Learning, Wheelchair Control. ABSTRACTAccording to the Badan Penduduk Statistik 2019, the number of elderly population is 23.4 million, and 26.2% of them experience health complaints. Some of these complaints are related to mobility. Wheelchairs are one of the commonly used aids for people with disabilities or mobility limitations. The Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) is employed as a control system for a wheelchair, utilizing a Raspberry Pi, which operates based on input signals derived from EEG (Electroencephalogram) signals. These EEG signals are used to predict brain commands and stimulate eye movement through the application of gradient boosting algorithms. The machine learning prediction results are the set points to run the DC motor so that the wheelchair can move based on the prediction results. The BCI system for wheelchairs has been tested, and the integration of BCI into wheelchairs has been successfully applied with a 60% success rate.Keywords: BCI, Machine Learning, Wheelchair Control.
Global Trends in Bridge Collapse Incidents in 2023: an Analysis of Regional Patterns and Causative Factors
Authors: Mullins Paul
Published: April 2024

Bridge collapses represent critical failures in infrastructure systems with significant implications for public safety, economic stability, and transportation networks. This paper presents an investigation into the occurrence of bridge collapse incidents worldwide during 2023. Drawing upon a dataset sourced from global news outlets, the study offers an analysis of regional trends and underlying causes, with a view to providing insights for design, construction, and maintenance practices. The study aggregates more than 170 incidents, enabling a reasonably detailed examination of the distribution of bridge collapses across different regions. The paper focuses on extracting statistical patterns and trends, revealing potential hotspots of collapse incidents that warrant further attention and preventive strategies. The findings underscore the urgency of adopting proactive measures to address structural vulnerabilities and systemic shortcomings, contributing to the overall resilience of transportation networks.
Carbon Emissions, Lifespan and Circularity Interaction Strategies
Authors: Collings David
Published: April 2024

Capital and whole life carbon emissions; circularity, waste and reuse; useful lifespan; net zero and other sustainability issues are often assessed independently. However, there is a significant interaction between these sustainability issues. In this paper the interactions are highlighted and good and poor strategies to combining them are outlined. Examples from published sources are used to illustrate the interactions and strategies. The paper is based on recent research by the author and others in industry and academia. The carbon-circularity- life interaction is primarily focused on bridges and transportation infrastructure. The paper highlights the key differences between infrastructure and building structures, on which much of the current circularity, waste and reuse considerations are aimed.
Adaptive pathways for critical infrastructure resilience
Authors: Makhoul Nisrine , Achillopoulou Dimitra V. , Kromanis Rolands
Published: April 2024

Climate change is triggering hazard events more frequently and the costs of the consequences on the built environment are higher. This induced the advent of resilience-based engineering. More recently adaptive pathways (APs) were presented to allow adaptive management as well as dynamic and flexible decision-making. APs allow, specifically in climate change contexts, the consideration of stressors that occur incrementally or cumulatively and amplified hazard scenarios. Thus, an AP framework enhanced with emerging technologies is proposed for critical infrastructure. It benefits from the resilience and sustainability of emerging technologies throughout the lifetimes of critical infrastructure. This advanced AP framework is supported by continuous assessment of the infrastructure performance, continuous monitoring, and implementation of mitigation measures if needed. The Hollandse Bridge case study is offered to demonstrate the framework.
Development of cold-bonded lightweight concrete aggregates using biowaste
Authors: Zwicky Daia , Ston Julien
Published: April 2024

The use of lightweight concrete could overcome some of the disadvantages of normal-weight concrete. However, the fabrication of lightweight aggregates is energy intensive and considerably draws on non-renewable resources. The positive consequences from lighter weight on supporting structural components’ dimensions are frequently outrun by the increase in carbon footprint of up to 65% stemming from the lightweight aggregates. On this background, fabrication of lightweight aggregates in a low-energy cold-bonding pelletizing process, using bio-based waste and by- products, and alternative binders in combination with or instead of cement was explored. Presented results cover reflections for recipe mix design, observations made in the pelletizing and hardening process, results obtained for density, strength, thermal properties, and carbon footprint of this alternative way to produce lightweight aggregates for concrete.
Variable stiffness and damping components for semi-active vibration control and inflatable rigidization
Authors: Wang Qinyu , Senatore Gennaro , Jansen Kaspar , Habraken Arjan , Teuffel Patrick
Published: April 2024

The paper explores the potential applications of adaptive components based on shape memory polymer (SMP) composites in vibration control of plate/shell structures and rigidization of inflatable structures. These components achieve stiffness and damping variation by thermally actuating SMP between its glassy and rubbery states. In CASE A, steel-SMP sandwich plates of a truss bridge are actuated to glass transition temperature (Tg), where material damping reaches the peak to mitigate dynamic responses. CASE B proposes a simple and reversible rigidization method for inflatable structures, creating high compaction ratio and design flexibility. Converting the SMP layer between its glassy and rubbery states, inflatable structures achieve multiple functions during transportation, construction, and service life. SMP-based adaptive components enhance structural performance and mitigate dynamic effects in demanding environments for various structures.
Predicting Fractures in Reinforcing Steel Bars: A Low Cycle Fatigue CNN Approach
Authors: Mantawy Islam M. , Ravuri Naga
Published: April 2024

Resilience is enhanced by machine-learning-based structural health monitoring (ML-SHM). ML-SHM minimizes delays in recovery after events, offering continuous monitoring for improved resourcefulness. This paper discusses the use of convolution neural networks (CNNs) for SHM with time-series data from seismic events. Current ML approaches overlook the temporal nature of the data. The proposed ML-SHM approach involves converting time-series data into images using the Markov Transition Field (MTF), obtained from strain data collected during shake table tests, and utilizing these encoded images in training and testing CNN models. CNN models achieved impressive accuracy in training (100%) and testing (96.7%) using only 3 layers. By stacking eleven earthquake excitation representations through MTF images, particularly for low-cycle fatigue, this method shows promise in revolutionizing fracture estimation from strain data.
Streamlining a Transitional Shelter Design: A DfMA-driven Approach for Efficient Design and Assembly
Authors: Roxas Cheryl Lyne C. , Dela Cruz Rhem Leoric C. , de Pedro John Paul Q. , Tamani Breman M. , Dungca Jonathan R. , Lejano Bernardo A. , Ongpeng Jason Maximino C.
Published: April 2024

The rapid and effective provision of transitional shelters is of paramount importance in disaster response and humanitarian aid efforts. This study focuses on the development of an innovative, structurally sound, and economical transitional shelter design in the Philippines using the Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) concept. Though several existing shelter designs were already introduced in the country, these designs raised concerns about their adequacies to withstand hazards and constructability. This paper then explored DFMA principles and developed a framework as applied in a cold-formed steel-based shelter design to ensure ease in the assembly of the components, simplifying the construction, and at the same time achieving structural stability. The findings of this study significantly enhance the Philippines' disaster response by improving the existing shelters in terms of cost-efficiency, ease of construction, and structural stability.
Bristol Temple Meads Railway Station roof refurbishment project
Authors: Chong Peter , Wren Stephen , Galyasz Gabor , Woolsmith Duncan , Hindi Omar
Published: April 2024

This paper focuses on the Bristol Temple Meads station roof refurbishment project, which involves metalwork repairs, painting and re-glazing of the main shed and canopies in this Historic England Grade I Listed Building. The project is presented from a designer’s point of view.

The paper focuses on lessons learnt by the design team that could be applied to similar future refurbishment projects.