bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tricuspid valve repair can restore the prognosis of patients with hypoplastic left heart syndrome and tricuspid valve regurgitation: a meta-analysis
Authors: Ponzoni Matteo , Azzolina Danila , Vedovelli Luca , Gregori Dario , Vida Vladimiro L. , Padalino Massimo A.
Published: July 2023

Objectives
To date, evidence supporting the efficacy of tricuspid valve (TV) repair in interrupting the progression of systemic right ventricular (RV) adverse remodeling in hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is conflicting. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of scientific literature to assess the impact of TV repair in effectively modifying the prognosis of patients with HLHS.
Methods
We conducted a systematic review of PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. A random-effect meta-analysis was performed and transplant-free survival, freedom from TV regurgitation, and TV reoperation data were reconstructed using the published Kaplan–Meier curves.
Results
Nine studies were included, for a total of 203 HLHS patients undergoing TV repair and 323 HLHS controls. The estimated transplant-free survival at 1, 5, and 10 years of follow-up was 75.5% [95% confidence interval (CI) = 67.6–84.3%], 63.6% [95% CI = 54.6–73.9%], and 61.9% [95% CI = 52.7–72.6%], respectively. Transplant-free survival was comparable to HLHS peers without TV regurgitation (p = 0.59). Five-year freedom from recurrence of TV regurgitation and freedom from TV reoperation was 57% [95% CI = 46.7–69.7%] and 63.6% [95% CI = 54.5–74.3%], respectively. Younger age and TV repair at the time of Norwood operation increased the risk of TV regurgitation recurrence and the need for TV reoperation.
Conclusions
Our meta-analysis supports the efficacy of TV repair in modifying favorably the prognosis of patients with HLHS and TV regurgitation, reestablishing a medium-term transplant-free survival which is comparable to HLHS peers. However, durability of surgery and long-term fate of TV and RV performance are still unclear.
Social Media Use: Awareness of Covid-19 Vaccine and Acceptance among Undergraduate Students in Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Usman Bashiru , Msughter Aondover Eric , Ridwanullah Abdulhameed Olaitan
Published: July 2023

Background:
The outbreak of Covid-19 of 2019 and its escalation to a global pandemic posed threat to public health worldwide. Although availability and acceptance of Covid-19 vaccination is a crucial step to cushioning the pandemic, hesitancy tends to hamper the success of the vaccination. Whereas social media platforms are potential tools for information dissemination, particularly to the millennial generation, governments scarcely exploit the sites to create awareness of Covid-19 vaccine, hence, the room for the spread of unverified information that can affect their public health decisions. This study, therefore, examines the relationships between social media use, awareness of Covid-19 vaccine, and hesitancy or acceptance among undergraduate Universities in Kano. Three Universities were selected (Bayero University Kano, Northwest Universities, and Skyline University Nigeria).
Method:
A cross-sectional online survey was adopted, a structured questionnaire was created on google forms and the link generated thereof was distributed to the undergraduates via Whatsapp and Facebook platforms. Descriptive and inferential analyses were conducted using SPSS and the results were presented in text, figures, and tables.
Results:
The study shows a strong significant correlation between social use and awareness of Covid-19 vaccine at a P = 0.001 level. However, it shows no significant correlation between awareness of Covid-19 vaccine and acceptance of the vaccination at a P = 0.006. The result also shows a statistical relationship between vaccine hesitancy and fear of infertility, no relationship was established between vaccine hesitancy and religious belief, mistrust of the vaccine source, and vaccine safety concerns. Those spending much time on social media receive Covid-19 vaccine the most. Similarly, those relying on social media as their major source of information about Covid-19 have more tendencies of accepting the vaccine.
Conclusions:
A crosstabulation hour spent on social media and receiving Covid-19 vaccine indicates that those spending 5 and above hours on social media are the highest receivers of Covid-19 jab. Thus, spending many hours on social media is inversely proportional to receiving the vaccine.
Improving KIII model and its application intraffic sign recognition
Authors: Zhang Jin , He Haobo , Li Wei , Kuang Lidan , Yu Fei , Zhao Jiajia
Published: July 2023

The KIII model is a bionic olfactory model proposed based on the physiological structure of the animal olfactory system and has been applied to pattern recognition problems such as tea classification and EEG recognition. To explore the versatility of the KIII model and improve its performance of the KIII model, this study improved the KIII model by introducing adaptive histogram equalization, Gaussian filtering, and feature fusion methods based on gridded feature extraction and cropping in the preprocessing stage, the effective extraction of image features enhances the model recognition ability; Aiming at the computational cost of solving the dynamic equations of neurons in the KIII model, the fourth-order Runge-Kutta and Euler methods are weighed, and the results show that the Euler method has a relatively low cost in terms of time overhead. Low cost and good recognition results; compared several different measurement algorithms in the decision-making stage, according to the analysis, the Spearman correlation coefficient performed best in this scenario; and was used in the new field of traffic sign recognition, The experimental results show that the improved KIII model has achieved an average recognition effect of 95.18% on the TSRD dataset.
Bayesian Spatiotemporal Modeling of Drought-related Respiratory Mortality
Authors: Gwon Yeongjin , Nagaya Richard , Bell Jesse E.
Published: July 2023

Drought is a complex climate hazard that is increasing in frequency and severity in parts of the world due to climate change. More research is needed to identify the relationship of drought on human health. In this study, we present a statistical model to evaluate the effect of drought exposure on health outcomes. Specifically, we introduce a Bayesian negative binomial regression model with spatial and temporal variabilities to examine the association between respiratory mortality and drought exposure. To conduct a Bayesian computation, an efficient computational algorithm was developed. The deviance information criteria (DIC) was computed to determine which of three drought indices (USDM, 6-month SPEI, 12-month SPEI) is the most suitable drought indicator. The proposed method is applied to a study of the health effects of drought in two selected states, Arizona and California, from 2000 to 2018.
A Scientific Study of Koryŏ Inlay Celadon from an Ancient Port in the Lower Yangtze, China
Authors: Chang Dongxue , Zhang Zhiqing , Li Xiaoshuang , Zhang Liangren
Published: July 2023

Inlay celadon was a type of high-end ceramics of the Koryŏ dynasty (918-1392 AD) produced in the Korean Peninsula. It was conveyed to China during the Yuan dynasty (1279-1368 AD) as tribute or trade goods. In this study, the authors analyzed six samples of inlay celadon recently discovered at the prosperous Taicang Port of the Yuan and Ming dynasties in the lower Yangtze River, China. With scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD), the authors investigated the production technique, and compositional characteristics of these samples for the purpose of tracking their provenances. While the bodies are made of porcelain stone, the glazes are of porcelain stone and calcium-rich flux. The white inlay material in these samples is a kaolin-based clay, and the black one is made of quartz with high Fe content or a compound of quartz and raw materials with high Fe content. The results link the samples uncovered at the Taicang Port to the Samhǔngni Kiln in Kangjin-gun and the Uch'ǒlli and Chinsǒri Kilns in Buan-gun in Southern Korea. The products were shipped to China from various kilns and in several shipments.
A randomized controlled pilot study of the efficacy of lower limb rehabilitation robot on the improvement of lower limb walking function in patients with incomplete spinal cord injury
Authors: Li Ning , Gong Yichen
Published: July 2023

Objective: The aim of this article was to explore the efficacy of the lower limb rehabilitation robot on the improvement of lower limb walking function in patients with incomplete spinal cord injury through objective and subjective indicators.
Methods: A total of 60 patients with incomplete spinal cord injury who were hospitalized in our hospital from June 2020 to June 2021 were recruited, and they were divided into experimental and control groups randomly. The experimental group underwent lower limb rehabilitation robot-assisted walking function training, while the control group underwent conventional walking function training. After 12 weeks of training, the patients in both groups were evaluated by electromyography of the lower limbs, 10-meter walking time (10MWT), Holden walking function assessment, ASIA Lower Limb Movement Score(LEMS) and Berg balance function score.
Results: The patients in the two groups were significantly improved after treatment in terms of the surface electromyography of the lower limbs, 10-meter walking time (10MWT), ASIA Lower Limb Movement Score(LEMS) and Berg balance function score. The differences in treatment outcomes between the two groups were statistically significant. The efficacy of the experimental group was better than that of the control group in terms of the surface electromyography of the lower limbs, 10-meter walking time (10MWT), ASIA Lower Limb Movement Score(LEMS) and Berg balance function score. The difference is also of statistical significance (P<0.05). However, in Holden walking function assessment, there was no significant difference between the two groups before and after treatment, or between the two groups after treatment (P>0.05).
Conclusion: The current results suggest lower limb rehabilitation robot assisted walking function training and conventional walking function training both can improve lower limb walking function in patients with incomplete spinal cord injury, and there are significant differences after treatment It was found that lower limb rehabilitation robot-assisted walking function training can significantly better improve the walking function of lower limbs in patients with incomplete spinal cord injury than the conventional walking function training and that it has incomparable superiority，However, there was no significant improvement in Holden's walking function score for either lower limb rehabilitation robot-assisted walking training or conventional walking function training, which further demonstrates that both have limitations in improving the efficacy of lower limb walking function in patients.
Unleashing Financial Fortitude: Exploring the Saving and Investment Habits of Rural Women in Bareilly, India
Authors: ALI SHAHEEN EFRAH
Published: July 2023

Purpose
This study identified the awareness of rural women about various purpose of saving, investment options, investment patterns, and factors that influence their investment decisions.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a descriptive research design to collect primary data of 100 rural women by convenience sampling through a structured questionnaire. Frequency and percentage methods were used to analyze the data.
Findings
The study identified the purpose of saving and factors that influence investment decisions among rural women, including family and social pressure, income, education, and financial literacy including investment patterns like savings accounts, gold, and livestock.
Practical implications
The study have practical implications for policymakers and financial institutions to promote financial literacy and financial inclusion among rural women.
Intensive Care Unit Analgosedation after Cardiac Surgery in Children with Williams Syndrome – a Matched Case-Control Study
Authors: Mills Marcos , Algaze Claudia , Journel Chloe , Suarez Geovanna , Kwiatkowski David , Schmidt Alexander R. , Collins Ronnie
Published: July 2023

Objective: Cardiovascular abnormalities are common in patients with Williams syndrome (WS) and frequently require surgical intervention necessitating analgesia and sedation in a population with a unique neuropsychiatric profile, potentially increasing the risk of adverse cardiac events (ACE) during the perioperative period. Despite this risk, the overall postoperative analgosedative requirements in patients with WS in the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) have not yet been investigated. Our primary aim was to examine the analgosedative requirement in patients with WS after cardiac surgery compared to a control group. Our secondary aim was to compare the risk of major ACE and mortality between the two groups.
Design: Matched case-control study.
Setting: Pediatric CICU at a Tertiary Children’s Hospital.
Patients: Patients with WS and age-matched controls who underwent cardiac surgery and were admitted to the CICU after cardiac surgery between July 2014 and January 2021.
Interventions: None
Measurements and Main Results: Postoperative outcomes and total doses of analgosedative medications were collected in the first six days after surgery for the study groups. Median age was 29.8 (12.4-70.8) months for WS and 23.5 (11.2-42.3) months for controls. Across all study intervals (48h and first 6 post-operative days), there were no differences between groups in total doses of morphine equivalents (5.0 mg/kg vs 5.6mg/kg, p=0.7 and 8.2mg/kg vs 10.0 mg/kg, p=0.7), midazolam equivalents (1.8mg/kg vs 1.5mg/kg, p=0.4 and 3.4 mg/kg vs 3.8mg/kg, p=0.4), or dexmedetomidine (20.5 mcg/kg vs 24.4 mcg/kg, p=0.5 and 42.3 mcg/kg vs 39.1 mcg/kg, p=0.3). There was no difference in major ACE or mortality.
Conclusions: Patients with WS received similar analgosedative medication doses compared with controls. There was no difference in the frequency of major ACE (including cardiac arrest, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and surgical reintervention) or mortality between the two groups. Patients with WS can receive similar analgosedation to controls without untoward cardiovascular events.
Electrothermal Properties of 2D Materials in Device Applications
Authors: Klein Samantha , Aksamija Zlatan
Published: July 2023

To continue downscaling transistors, new materials must be explored. Two-dimensional (2D) materials are appealing due to their thinness and bandgap. The relatively weak van der Waals forces between layers in 2D materials allow easy exfoliation and device fabrication but also result in poor heat transfer to the substrate, which is the main path for heat removal. The impaired thermal coupling is exacerbated in few-layer devices where Joule heat dissipated in the layers further from the substrate encounters additional interlayer thermal resistance before reaching the substrate, which results in self-heating and thermal degradation of mobility. This study explores the electro-thermal properties of five popular 2D materials (MoS2, MoSe2, WS2, WSe2, and 2D black phosphorous). We simulate various devices with self-heating with a range of gate and drain biases and examine the effects on mobility and change in device temperature. The effects are compared to the isothermal case to ascertain the impact of self-heating. We observe that Joule heating has a significant effect on temperature rise, layer-wise drain current, and effective mobility. We show that black phosphorous performs the best thermally, owing to its relatively high thermal conductance to the substrate, while WSe2 performs the best electrically. This study will inform future thermally aware designs of nanoelectronic devices based on 2D materials.
Treatment and outcomes of 95 post-Covid patients with an antidepressant and neurobiological explanations
Authors: Rus Carla C.P. , de Vries Bert , Vries Ingmar E.J. , Nutma Idelette , Kooij J. J. Sandra
Published: July 2023

After Covid-19 infection, 12.5% develop a post-Covid-syndrome. Symptoms affect numerous organ systems, but after one year they are mainly neurological and neuropsychiatric in nature. There is evidence that treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) during Covid-19 infection decreases the likelihood of a post-Covid condition, but there is no known research on treating post-Covid syndrome itself with SSRIs. This study used an exploratory questionnaire and found that 63,4% of 95 post-Covid syndrome patients reported a reasonably good to strong response to an SSRI. Outcomes were measured with three different measures that correlated strongly with each other. Brainfog and sensory overload decreased the most. Patients experienced improved well-being. The response to SSRIs in post-Covid conditions was explained by seven possible neurobiological mechanisms as reported in the recent literature. The promising results of this study should be followed by a randomized controlled trial.
Post-cholecystectomy Bile duct injuries: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Seif-Eldeen Mostafa , Elkeleny Mostafa Refaie , Ghazal Abdel-Hamid Ahmed , Zidan Mohamed Hossam Eldin
Published: July 2023

Background: Bile duct injury (BDI) is still a major worrisome complication that is feared by all surgeons undergoing cholecystectomy. The overall incidence of biliary duct injuries still falls between 0.2–1.3%. BDI classification remains an important method to define the type of injury conducted for investigation and management. In recent years, a Consensus has been taken to clearly define BDI using the ATOM classification. Early management brings better results than delayed management. The current perspective in biliary surgery is the laparoscopic role in diagnosing and managing BDI. Diagnostic laparoscopy has been conducted in various entities for diagnostic and therapeutic measures in both minor and major BDIs.Methods: 35 cases with iatrogenic BDI following cholecystectomy (after both open and laparoscopic approaches) both happened in or were referred to Alexandria Main University Hospital surgical department from January 2019 till May 2022 and were analyzed retrospectively. Patients were classified according to the ATOM classification. Management options undertaken were mentioned and compared to the timing of diagnosis, and the morbidity and mortality rates (using the Clavien-Dindo classification).Results 35 patients with BDI after both laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) (54.3%), and Open cholecystectomy (OC) (45.7%) (20% were converted and 25.7% were Open from the start) were classified according to ATOM classification. 45.7% were main bile duct injuries (MBDI), and 54.3% were non-main bile duct injuries (NMBDI), where only one case 2.9% was associated with vasculobiliary injury (VBI). 28% (n = 10) of the cases were diagnosed intraoperatively (Ei), 62.9% were diagnosed early postoperatively (Ep), and 8.6% were diagnosed in the late postoperative period (L). LC was associated with 84.2% of the NMBDI, and only 18.8% of the MBDI., compared to OC which was associated with 81.3% of MBDI, and 15.8% of NMBDI. By the Clavien-Dindo classification, 68.6% fell into Class IIIb, 20% into Class I, 5.7% into Class V (mortality rate), 2.9% into Class IIIa, and 2.9% into Class IV. The Clavien-Dindo classification and the patient's injury (type and time of detection) were compared to investigation and management options.Conclusion Management options should be defined individually according to the mode of presentation, the timing of detection of injury, and the type of injury. Early detection and management are associated with lower morbidity and mortality. Diagnostic Laparoscopy was associated with lower morbidity and better outcomes.
Surgical Management of Tibial Plateau Fractures in Damascus Hospital during The Syrian Crisis
Authors: Sattouf Aghyed , Alhussein Ahmad , Alrras Abdul Kafi , Alhalabi Nawras , Ali Isam
Published: July 2023

Introduction:
With increasing advances in transportation (cars, motorcycles ... etc.), urban advancement, and life activities; and thus, the incidence of fractures had increased among all members of society, The fractures of the tibial plateau had a share in that, and it was necessary to review and evaluate what is being done for this growing segment of patients.
Methods:
A retrospective cohort study was conducted among patients with tibia plateau fractures between 2015 and 2021.
This has been done by reviewing the patients' files in Damascus Hospital and recording information by the researcher on a research questionnaire, the sample number was 107 patients.
Results:
the age group most affected by tibial plateau fractures was concentrated in the age group between 31-40 years at a rate of 30%, and the percentage of injured males was higher at a rate of 85%, and the most common mechanism of injury was a fall at a rate of 67.3%, and as noted the dominance of type -2- of the Schatzker classification With a percentage of 42.1%, the most commonly used method of surgical management was via plates with a percentage of 60.8%. As for postoperative complications, the incidence of sepsis was 2.8%, and the failure of recovery materials was 1.9%. From the results, a statistically significant result was found for the relationship between the length of stay in the hospital with the occurrence of complications postoperatively (p=0.001).
Discussion:
Many of the results of our research agreed with other international studies on various levels, such as complication rates regarding sepsis, for example, and the surgical method used in fracture management was through plates, and fracture epidemiology according to the Schatzker pattern, which was the most common (type 2).
Conclusion:
We note the necessity and importance of evaluating the preoperative fracture according to international standards, and thus adopting the best method of inference according to the fracture pattern and the accompanying injuries, all of which were found to be directly related to the results of the surgical procedure, thus reaching the optimal result.
Development and Validation of a Questionnaire for Microlearning Requirements in Micro-Credentials: A Pilot Study
Authors: HALIM FAUZIAH SAADAH ABDUL , Luaran Johan@ Eddy , Jill Lee Sze Seau
Published: July 2023

The study addresses the problem of the lack of a comprehensive questionnaire that encompasses the diverse requirements for designing effective learning environments and delivering meaningful learning experiences in micro-credential programs, with a specific focus on Malaysia higher education institutions. The aim of the study was to develop and validate a questionnaire capable of identifying the design requirements for microlearning in the context of developing micro-credentials. To achieve this, the questionnaire underwent validation through both exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and quantitative analysis. The study involved 48 participants who were micro-credential developers from a public higher education institution in Malaysia. These participants represented various designations and were affiliated with 16 different faculties. Initially, a 70-item questionnaire was developed by incorporating relevant insights from literature review into Khan’s e-learning model. After eliminating overlapping items and items that did not adequately represent the specific elements, a 56-item questionnaire was developed. The exploratory factor analysis (EFA) resulted in 14 factors consisting of 57 high-loading components, which collectively explained 85.549% of the total variance. The 57-item questionnaire demonstrated favourable multifaceted qualities. The content validity of the questionnaire was confirmed by an expert panel, which identified the pedagogical dimension, technological dimension, evaluation dimension, management dimension, resources support and institutional dimension as significant factors. These six main constructs were collectively utilised to determine the microlearning design requirements for the development of micro-credentials. By addressing the multifaceted requirements of microlearning design, this questionnaire has the potential to enhance the overall quality and effectiveness of micro-credential programs in the Malaysian higher education landscape and beyond.
Immersive Technologies in Adult Learning as an Innovative Marketing Tool in the Educational Market
Authors: Onopriienko Iryna , Onopriienko Kateryna , Bourekkadi Salmane
Published: July 2023

The article reviews the economic organization and effectiveness of adult education using virtual reality technologies. The main driver of the development of the immersive learning market is the demand from corporations. It is still expensive for most schools and universities, but companies, on the contrary, see it as a way to reduce costs. Immersive learning is a method that uses an artificial or simulated environment that allows students to become fully immersed in the learning process. In addition to creating a distraction-free environment, it can break the monotony of learning and development through stimulating visuals. Immersive learning can make learning more productive and valuable by increasing student engagement. The article also considers the factors that make immersive technologies an innovative tool for use in the marketing strategies of educational institutions and for the promotion of educational content. Immersive learning is a dynamic strategy that can improve e-learning and revolutionize the world of education. This method has great potential to lead the future of learning and help achieve its important goals. VR training is especially in demand in industries with a high line staff turnover: it reduces the cost of continuous training of new employees. Their business applications are almost limitless, from order picking and surgical operations to digital twins to modelling and tracking manufacturing plants, supply chains and other complex systems. AR and VR significantly increase the value and convenience that these opportunities create. These technologies improve how users visualize and access all new monitoring data, how they receive and follow instructions and product manuals, and how they interact. It was concluded that with immersive technologies in educational marketing, the educational market would develop, increase and change under the influence of innovations. It is also believed that the money spent on such technologies is not considered an expense but an investment in the development of the company and the person.
Hydrodynamic performance optimization of marine propellers based on fluid-structure coupling
Authors:   College of Ocean Science and Engineering, Shanghai Maritime University, Liang Liu , Baoji Zhang , Hao Zhang , Hailin Tang , Weijie Wang
Published: July 2023

Fiber-reinforced composites offer the benefits of high strength, high stiffness, lightweight, superior damping performance, and great design capability when compared to metal. The rigidity characteristics of the composite laminate in different directions may be adjusted to meet the requirements of the application by using appropriate materials and arranging the lay-up sequence. As a result, the purpose of this work is to explore the influence of lay-up type on propeller performance in terms of both hydrodynamic and structural performance. A transient fluid-structure interaction (FSI) algorithm based on the finite element method (FEM) combined with the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) technique is developed and used for the analysis of composite propellers. The hydrodynamic performance of the propeller is compared to that of a metallic material. Propeller propulsion efficiency, structural deformation, equivalent stress, and damage performance of different lay-up options under three different operating situations are compared. In addition, it is presented a parametric optimization approach to get the most appropriate lay-up program for composite blades with the best hydrodynamic properties and structural performance.
Hibridisasi Gaya Arsitektur Bangunan Pemerintahan di Rokan Hilir Masa Bupati Periode 2001-2021
Authors: Karima Miftahul , Sudradjat Iwan , Widiastuti Indah
Published: July 2023

Title: Hybridization of Architectural Styles in Government Buildings in Rokan Hilir during the Regents' Term from 2001-2021

 

The Architecture of Government buildings in Rokan Hilir Regency, Riau Province, Indonesia, demonstrates a change in style during the terms of three Regents who served between 2001 and 2021. The architectural style of government buildings initially referred to the Malay architectural style but later shifted orientation to architecture with various dome-shaped roofs. This article explains the changes in the architectural style of government buildings in Rokan Hilir from 2001 to 2021 and maps them genealogically. The research was conducted using a historical method, utilizing primary data from field observations and interviews and secondary data from development project archives and literature. The results of this research provide a genealogy of architectural styles in government office buildings in Rokan Hilir, regarding the Traditional, Modern, Dome, and Neo-Classical styles. Throughout their development, these four references underwent a process of hybridization, resulting in five hybrid styles as follows: Traditional-Neo-Classical Hybrid, Neo-Classical-Dome Hybrid, Traditional-Dome Hybrid, Dome-Modern Hybrid, and Traditional-Neo-Classical-Dome Hybrid.
Using Byram’s Savoirs to Ensure the Incorporation of Intercultural Communicative Competence into Language Teaching
Authors: Harper John
Published: July 2023

Although the term “intercultural communicative competence” (ICC) is often used in academic literature, studies indicate that the ICC element is often not included in the actual teaching practices of tertiary institutions. Due to the lack of ICC instruction across the curriculum, foreign language (FL) courses seem to stand out as logical sites for instruction in ICC. FL instructors, however, are not necessarily trained in matters of ICC, and the standard default method of acquiring ICC outside the language class (i.e., study abroad) is clearly not available to all students. In a global society, ICC is relevant for all students. This paper uses Byram’s 1997 savoirs (i.e., competences desirable of the “intercultural speaker”) as a starting point to provide evidence of tried and tested FL teaching practices that reveal ways in which ICC instruction may be incorporated into FL courses even in academic environments in which direct intercultural contact is unlikely. While recognizing the obstacles of teaching ICC in such environments, the study reveals that the inclusion of ICC is not only possible but necessary in them.
Analysis of Correlations between Selected Blood Markers of Acid-Base Balance, Blood Electrolytes, and Milk Components in Dairy Cows during Late Lactation
Authors: MORDAK RYSZARD , DOBRZAŃSKI ZBIGNIEW , POPIEL JAROSŁAW , KUPCZYŃSKI ROBERT
Published: July 2023

The aim of the study was to assess the values of and correlations between selected markers of acid-base balance and electrolytes in the blood of late lactation cows, such as pH, pCO2, pO2, HCO3 –, BE, BE(B), Na+, K+, Cl–, as well as selected parameters of milk, such as the number of somatic cells (SCC), colony forming units (CFU), milk fat (MF), milk protein (MP), milk lactose (ML), milk solids, milk solids non-fat (SNF), and current milk production. Blood and milk samples were collected at the same time from 11 clinically healthy milking cows in the later lactation period. Those 11 selected cows were examined once a day for 3 consecutive days resulting in 33 sets of blood and milk samples used for laboratory and statistical analyses. Significant positive correlations were observed between pH and HCO3 –, pH and BE, pH and BE(B), pCO2 and HCO3 –, pCO2 and BE, pCO2 and BE(B), HCO3 – and BE, HCO3 – and BE(B), BE and BE(B), Na+ and Cl–, Na+ and milk production, Cl– and milk production, and Cl– and MP. Significant negative correlations were observed between pH and K+, pH and Cl–, pCO2 and Cl–, HCO3 – and Cl–, BE and Cl–, and BE(B) and Cl–. The increase in blood pH was significantly negatively correlated with the current milk production, while the increase in HCO3 – or pCO2 was associated with a significant decrease in the amount of protein in milk. These relations can indicate a significant negative influence of blood acid-base imbalance on the quantity and quality of cow’s milk. The repeatable diagnostic model presented here proved to be a very useful tool for a detailed assessment of selected higly sensitive parameters of internal homeostasis in productive dairy cows.
Evaluating ecohydrological driving factors controlling the hydrology of the Wuijang River Basin, China
Authors: Chen Hao , Guo Wenxian , Ma Jianqin , Fu Yicheng , Wang Baoliang
Published: July 2023

River hydrology is an important proxy for changes in river runoff and an important factor affecting the ecology of rivers. To quantitatively evaluate the hydrology of the Wuijang River basin, this paper uses various tests to analyze runoff. The IHA-RVA method combined with FDC ecohydrological indicators was used to evaluate the hydrology of the Wuijang River basin and to analyze and calculate the contribution of human activities and climate change to runoff. The results show that (1) the runoff in the Wujiang River basin has shown a decreasing trend over the years, with a sudden change in 2005 and mainly two inter-annual cycles; (2) the overall hydrological change in runoff is 48%, which is a moderate change; (3) The changes in FDC ecological indicators are significantly correlated with rainfall, and the correlation between FDC ecological indicators and IHA hydrological indicators is strong; (4) human activities are the main influencing factors of runoff changes in the Wujiang River. The results of this paper have some reference value for the management of the Wujiang River basin and the improvement and restoration of river ecology.
Effect of the River Chief System on river pollution control under ‘Responsibility Contracting’: lessons and experiences from China
Authors: Yao Wenjie
Published: July 2023

Based on whether the ‘One River, One Policy’ is implemented or not, this paper used the questionnaire data of village (community) river chiefs in nine districts and counties under the jurisdiction of Jinhua City, Zhejiang Province, and used the Difference-In-Differences Model to carry out an empirical analysis. The findings are threefold. Firstly, the ‘One River, One Policy’ implemented by primary river chiefs can improve the water quality of the river reaches in their charge. Secondly, annual river patrol times and public support can improve the water quality of the river reaches in charge of primary river chiefs. Thirdly, the River Chief System (RCS) can promote the treatment of river pollution under ‘Responsibility Contracting’, but for primary river chiefs, there is still a suspicion of whitewash pollution control behavior, so whether to establish a long-term mechanism of the RCS is still uncertain. The purpose of this paper is to provide empirical support and decision-making reference for constructing the positive incentive mechanism of the behavior of primary river chiefs in the reconstruction of the RCS, which has important practical significance for effectively improving the RCS and comprehensively promoting the Chinese experiences of river pollution control.
Alcohol consumption as health risk factor for the population in the RF regions in the ‘before crisis’ and ‘after crisis’ periods (2017–2022)
Authors:   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Lebedeva-Nesevria N.A. ,   Perm State University, 15 Bukireva Str., Perm, 614990, Russian Federation, Gordeeva S.S. ,   Perm State University, 15 Bukireva Str., Perm, 614990, Russian Federation
Published: July 2023

In this study, we have estimated alcohol consumption and alcohol-associated incidence in the RF regions in the ‘before crisis’ (2017–2019) and ‘crisis’ (2020–2022) periods. We identified types of the RF regions using hierarchical cluster analysis (Ward’s method) and relying on indirect indicators of alcohol consumption. As a result, we established considerable differences between the macro-regions (the Federal Districts) and RF regions as per alcohol consumption and severity of its outcomes. Poles in this differentiation are represented by ‘favorable’ regions in the Southern Russia where alcohol sales, alcohol-associated crime and incidence are low and ‘unfavorable’ regions located in the Far East and southern Siberia where alcohol-associated crime and incidence are high. We have shown in this study that retail alcohol sales cannot be considered a sufficient indicator to describe alcohol use in a given region. Thus, considerable volumes of alcohol sales involve severe socially significant outcomes in some regions (for example, the Khabarovsk region and Primorye) whereas such outcomes do not occur in other regions with similarly high alcohol sales (Moscow, Saint Petersburg, the Moscow region and the Leningrad region). The level of socioeconomic welfare on a given territory is confirmed as a significant determinant of alcohol consumption. We have also analyzed a correlation between economic vulnerability of RF regions during the ‘pandemic’ and ‘sanction’ crises and levels of alcohol consumption. The analysis revealed that large industrial regions, though expected to be vulnerable, turned out to be quite stable (it is probable due to delayed macroeconomic effects). We have not been able to identify any resources of improving a tense situation with alcohol consumption in economically unfavorable but less vulnerable subsidized agricultural regions. In general, the crisis period of 2020–2022 can be considered a source of additional health risks for the population in the RF regions where the situation with alcohol consumption was rather unfavorable in the ‘before crisis’ period.
Calculating the number of disease cases associated with acute short-term exposure to harmful chemicals in ambient air
Authors:   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Kiryanov D.А. , Tsinker М.Yu. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation, Khismatullin D.R. ,   Federal Scientific Center for Medical and Preventive Health Risk Management Technologies, 82 Monastyrskaya Str., Perm, 614045, Russian Federation
Published: July 2023

The article addresses development of methodical approaches to calculating levels of health disorders caused by short-term exposure to ambient air pollution. We have established and parameterized relationships relevant for quantification of probable health outcomes as responses to elevated levels of chemicals in ambient air higher than their reference ones. These relationships were modeled using system analysis techniques and were based on dynamic data series on ambient air quality at the control points and the number of applications for medical aid in settlements with their overall population being more than 5 million people. We have formalized relationships that describe how intensively acute health disorders develop under short-term exposure to chemical levels in ambient air being higher than the reference ones that are identified at the control points. The resulting models rely on official data and can be used to predict and assess public health risks in any area where ambient air quality is monitored. The formalized relationships were tested within identifying levels of incidence associated with acute short-term exposure to ambient air pollution in a large industrial center. It was established that, according to data collected in 2020, the highest associated incidence was caused by exposure to benzene (on average 0.364 mg/m3 higher than the reference level) in ambient air and was detected as per such nosologies as ‘Allergic rhinitis unspecified’ and ‘Predominantly allergic asthma’. We are planning to use the results obtained at this stage in the research in further development of methodical approaches to assessing and predicting chemical health risks in areas influenced by hazardous chemical objects under short-term exposure to high levels of pollutants.
Fundacja rodzinna a spółka z o.o. – próba porównawcza wybranych instytucji
Authors: Pomieciński Marcin
Published: July 2023

Celem artykułu jest próba porównania kapitału zakładowego spółki z o.o. z funduszem założycielskim przewidzianym w fundacji rodzinnej, nowej instytucji wprowadzonej ustawą z 26.1.2023 r. o fundacji rodzinnej (Dz.U. z 2023 r., poz. 326), w szczególności z perspektywy funkcji gwarancyjnej. Autor, stosując metodę dogmatyczno-prawną, w pierwszej części artykułu opisuje czym jest funkcja gwarancyjna kapitału zakładowego w spółce z o.o.. W drugiej części przedstawia przepisy ustawy o fundacji rodzinnej zestawiając je z relewantnymi regulacjami k.s.h. Autor dochodzi do konkluzji, że fundusz założycielski nie spełnia swojej funkcji gwarancyjnej na podobnym poziomie jak kapitał zakładowy w spółce z. o.o. i sygnalizuje potrzebę jej rozwinięcia na poziomie ustawowym.
Zjawisko kryptowalut w prawie polskim
Authors: Budner Piotr
Published: July 2023

Celem artykułu jest zbadanie aktualnych regulacji dotyczących kryptowalut w polskim porządku prawnym. Poprzez analizę obowiązujących przepisów, działalności judykatury oraz dorobku doktryny, udało się określić faktyczne desygnaty analizowanego pojęcia oraz wskazać na ich unikalność w stosunku do obowiązującego stanu prawnego. Artykuł wskazuje na konieczność oddzielnej regulacji kwestii kryptowalut oraz pozostałych walut wirtualnych, poprzez wskazanie zasadniczych różnic dzielących te dwa zjawiska
Skin Cancer: An Insight on its Association with Aging, Pathogenesis and
Treatment Strategies
Authors: Sharma Divya , Singh Nikhil , Srivastava Shikha
Published: July 2023

Skin cancer is one of the deadly diseases of the skin characterized by pain and uncontrolled
growth of cells. The pathogenesis of skin cancer involves the uncontrolled division of abnormal
cells in the part of the body affected by an accumulation of genome variation over the
course of a lifetime. The incidence of skin cancer has been increasing all over the world and has
been reported more in old-aged persons. Furthermore, aging plays a vital role in promoting malignancy.
Cancer necessitates lifelong administration of drugs to maintain the quality of life. The
major challenge of treatment is the side effects associated with these drugs. Novel and targeted
approaches are now formulated to explore as an alternative measure to treat cancer. The current
review summarizes the pathogenesis of cancer and its treatment strategies. These approaches are
discussed with regard to the drugs, mechanism of action, causative factors, distribution of cancer,
mortality rate, and treatment strategies.
Local Anaesthesia
Authors: Kalra Namita , MM Afsal
Published: July 2023

The chapter explains the technique for various blocks used in dentistry. The
areas anaesthetized are also well explained. The various techniques discussed are
alveolar nerve block, mental nerve block, nasopalatine block, greater palatine block,
and posterior superior alveolar block.
Dental Patient Education and Motivation
Authors: Sangwan Aditi Dalal
Published: July 2023

The role of patient education is extremely important in maintaining oral
hygiene and oral health. It is even more important when the patient has had a
periodontal surgery. Patient education is a simple process if the goals and content of
education are understood. Motivation is a rare consequence of this education until
additional reinforcement and rewards are used. The subject is discussed in a simple
manner in this chapter, and the importance of oral hygiene methods and oral hygiene
maintenance is simultaneously discussed
Basics of Psychology Related to Patient Management
Authors: Kalra Namita , Sabherwal Puja
Published: July 2023

Psychology of human nature and its understanding is the key to smooth
interactions between two human beings. It is of great importance to dental surgeons
and dental nurses who are dealing with persons in times of distress. These are various
theories of developmental psychology given by different authors. The psychosexual
theory by an Austrian neurologist Dr. Sigmund Freud and the psychosocial theory by
Erik Erikson are the two main theories that explain psychological development and
maturity. They have important dental implications, which are discussed in this chapter.
The theory of classical conditioning, as given by Ivan Pavlov, a Russian physiologist,
is discussed
Metal-organic Frameworks and their Derived Structures for Photocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Abazari Reza , Sanati Soheila , Gao Junkuo
Published: July 2023

Fossil fuels are non-renewable energy sources and may cause environmental pollution. One of the appropriate solutions is to develop clean and renewable sources of energy as an alternative to fossil fuels. Environmental pollution and lack of renewable energy sources are two significant problems affecting the current life of human society and economic progress. Researchers have addressed semiconductor-oriented heterogeneous photo-electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, and electrocatalysis by the fuel cells to solve these crises. Photocatalytic water splitting is a promising approach in resolving the energy crisis. This process involves harvesting solar light, charge transfer and separation, and evaluation of catalytic reactions of H2 and O2. In this regard, the main challenge is to find an efficient, environmental-friendly, cost-effective, and easily fabricated photocatalyst with high stability and corrosion resistance in different media. Thanks to their tunable structure, structural flexibility, high specific surface area, tunable pores, and unsaturated metal sites, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) could be an efficient photocatalyst for hydrogen production under UV, NIR, and visible radiation. Therefore, MOFs and MOFs-based compounds are widely utilized as alternatives for expensive commercial catalysts developed based on rare elements such as Pt and Au. They can also be employed as precursors for the synthesis of different types of materials with different structures, sizes, and morphologies. This chapter summarizes MOF-based photocatalysts for the splitting of water are MOFs modification strategies.