bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation of vitamin D serum level and quality of life in asthma patients
Authors: Halilovic Dzenan , Nurkić Jasmina , Trnačević Senahid , Nurkić Midhat , Halilović Eldina , Mujarić Ekrema
Published: January 2025

Aim Moderate to severe asthma patients with sufficient and insufficient vitamin D serum level, respectively, were assessed with quality of life questionnaires before and after treatment with vitamin D added to their standard asthma treatment.
Methods Patients with moderate to severe asthma have been divided into two groups based on a serum level of vitamin D as sufficient or insufficient level of vitamin D, respectively. During 12 months, a total of 120 patients with sufficient level of vitamin D as well as 120 patients with insufficient level were given treatment with 2000 IU vitamin D for a three-month period. Quality of life of all patients was assessed by Asthma Control Test (ACT), Asthma Quality of Life (AQOL) and the physician's assessment expressed through the Global Evaluation of Treatment Effectiveness (GETE), which were performed before and after the treatment with Vitamin D.
Results Values of ACT and AQOL were higher after the treatment with vitamin D in both groups of patients. Values of GETE were lower after the treatment with vitamin D in both groups. All assessed components, psychological, physical, as well as the subjective feeling of control of the disease assessed by treating physicians, showed improvement after treatment.
Conclusion Adding vitamin D in the treatment regimen of moderate to severe asthma patients improves quality of life and general asthma treatment effectiveness.
Scientific research in biomedical studies: insights and barriers at the University of Sarajevo
Authors: Selak Nejra , Šehić Meliha , Kudić Bakir , Ećo Ismar , Spahić Šehić Behija , Kulo Ćesić Aida
Published: January 2025

Aim The position of science and scientific research in Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) is unfavourable. University education lacks research programs, hindering students from developing critical evaluation skills. 
Methods This cross-sectional study examined knowledge, attitudes, experience and perceived barriers towards scientific research among biomedical students and recent graduates at the University of Sarajevo in B&H. A self-reporting questionnaire was distributed via social networks and among students from all years of the Medical, Dentistry, Pharmaceutical faculties, the Faculty of Health Sciences, and the Faculty of Science, as well as recent graduates.
Results The survey was completed by 243 participants. The mean knowledge score of 4.3/11 was noticed; 216 (96%) believed research was necessary for healthcare improvement. Although 147 participants (65.3%) attended courses on research methodology, only 63 (28%) engaged in scientific research at their faculties. Only 5 (8.5%) employed graduates participated in research at their jobs. Almost half, 99 (44%) participants consulted scientific papers only upon recommendation. The majority of participants, 199 (82.2%), reported they experienced barriers to conducting research in B&H. 
Conclusion Biomedical students and graduates demonstrated limited research knowledge, but had positive attitudes and acknowledged significant barriers. Improved faculty curricula in research areas and more opportunities are needed.
Impact of age and body mass index on dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scan results in postmenopausal women
Authors: Ćorović Halil , Salkica Nusret , Omerović Ćorović Naida , Cerić Šejla , Agić-Bilalagić Selma , Skopljak-Beganović Amra , Tinjak Enis
Published: January 2025

Aim To analyse the impact of age and body mass index (BMI) on dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) scan results in postmenopausal women. 
Methods The study included 100 postmenopausal women who underwent the DXA procedure, out of which 50 had a normal BMI and 50 were overweight/obese. Data that were examined included age, BMI, T-score of the lumbar region and the femoral neck, as well as bone mineral density (BMD). Correlation results were presented as Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r). 
Results The T2-score and BMD2 were significantly lower in older patients compared to younger ones (p=0.008 and p=0.007, respectively). Post hoc test results showed that the T2-score and BMD2 were significantly lower in patients ≥71 years of age compared to patients ≤59 years of age (p=0.006 and p=0.005, respectively). Also, T1- and T2-scores, as well as BMD1 and BMD2, were significantly higher in overweight/obese patients (p<0.001 and p=0.003; p<0.001 and p=0.002, respectively). The correlation between BMI and the T1-score was moderate (r=0.429), between BMI and the T2-score weak (r=0.348), between BMI and BMD1 moderate (r=0.431), and between BMI and BMD2 weak (r=0.344). 
Conclusion Our study showed that both age and BMI are important factors affecting DXA procedures and should be taken into account with each postmenopausal woman individually in everyday practice.
The influence of high doses of vitamin C on functional recovery and postoperative pain in patients with trochanteric fracture after intramedullary nailing during a three-month follow-up: a pilot study
Authors: Sivro Mirza , Omerović Đemil , Lazović Faruk , Papović Adnan
Published: January 2025

Aim To determine the effects of high peri- and postoperative doses of vitamin C administration on severity of pain in postoperative period and functional outcome of the patients with trochanteric fracture treated with intramedullary nailing during a three-month follow-up.
Methods A prospective, randomized, pilot study included 56 patients who were randomly divided into vitamin C (intervention) and control groups. In the intervention group, patients received vitamin C perioperatively by an intravenous route for 2 days, and oral vitamin C for 38 days postoperatively. Baseline characteristics, postoperative metamizole consumption, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, Harris Hip Score (HHS) value, and the prevalence of complications were evaluated in both groups. 
Results No significant differences were noted between the groups regarding age, gender, length of hospitalization, and distribution in fracture type. Postoperative metamizole consumption was notably higher in the control group compared to the vitamin C group (p=0.006). Postoperative VAS score was higher in the control group (p<0.05). No significant differences in HHS values were detected between the groups at 6 and 12 weeks postoperatively (p=0.655 and p=0.755, respectively). The group variable significantly contributed to VAS score, and age and gender variables significantly contributed to HHS value.
Conclusion A significant reduction of subjective pain levels and lower analgesic consumption was found in patients who received vitamin C, suggesting that it should be considered as an adjuvant agent for analgesia in patients with hip fracture.
Evaluation of risk factors for metabolic syndrome in epileptic patients in Palembang, Indonesia: a hospital-based and case-control study
Authors: Handayani Sri , Partan Radiyati Umi , Hafy Zen , Octaviana Fitri , Widiastuti Diah
Published: January 2025

Aim To examine the association between metabolic syndrome and risk factors in epileptic patients at Dr. Mohammad Hoesin General Hospital in Palembang, Indonesia.
Methods A hospital-based comparative case control research was conducted from July to September 2023. A total of 102 patients in the epilepsy group and 102 in the control group participated in this study. We conducted the data collection approach in three stages: a questionnaire, anthropometric measures and biochemical analysis. 
Results Epilepsy patients were more likely to develop metabolic syndrome than the controls. The epilepsy group exhibited higher triglycerides, fasting blood sugar, and lower high density lipoprotein (HDL) values than the control group. The epilepsy group exhibited sedentary behaviour, while the control group had moderate to intense physical activity (p<0.05). Epilepsy patients who take polytherapy, or several antiepileptic drugs, were 8.43 times more likely to develop metabolic syndrome (OR=8.43; 95%CI=1.45-32.12). Epilepsy patients with body mass index (BMI) >25 had 1.57 times the risk of metabolic syndrome (OR=1.57; 95%CI=1.16-2.34). Epilepsy patients with total cholesterol levels >200 mg/dL have a 5.81-fold higher risk of metabolic syndrome (OR=5.81; 95%CI=1.23-23.32). 
Conclusion Our study found that more than a quarter of epilepsy patients have metabolic syndrome. The main risk factors for metabolic syndrome in epilepsy patients were a sedentary lifestyle, several antiepileptic medications, overweight, and increased total cholesterol levels.
Knowledge and practice of intermittent fasting: a cross-sectional study among university students in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Imran Zahid Sarah , Dilawar Mahnoor , Garba Tahir Fatima , Tarek Mousa Tala , Sreedharan Jayadevan , Imran Zahid Nadia
Published: January 2025

Aim Intermittent fasting is a popular weight loss strategy that alternates between fasting periods and unrestricted eating. Research shows it can improve insulin resistance, lower HbA1c level, aid in weight management, and enhance cardiometabolic health. These effects can help address obesity, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. Despite its popularity, research on intermittent fasting in the United Arab Emirates is sparse. This study aimed to evaluate the awareness and practice of different intermittent fasting regimens, including Alternate-Day Fasting, Modified Fasting, Time-Restricted Feeding, Ramadan Fasting, and Chinese Medical Nutrition Therapy, as well as to examine the relationship between intermittent fasting and obesity, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes.
Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with 320 participants aged ≥18 years, irrespective of gender or nationality. An approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board, and informed consent was secured. Data were collected via a validated questionnaire on Google Forms, covering sociodemographic details, knowledge and practice of intermittent fasting, information sources, and health conditions. 
Results A total of 270 (87.4%) of participants were aware of intermittent fasting, and 149 (55.2%) practiced it. There was no significant link between knowledge and practice, but 29 (78.4%) of practitioners associated intermittent fasting with obesity. Among those with chronic conditions, 23 (91.2%) experienced positive changes.
Conclusion Despite the high awareness of intermittent fasting, individual beliefs influence its practice. The identified association between obesity and positive changes in those with chronic conditions implies potential benefits.
Enhancing perioperative planning: three-dimensional printing templating in orthopaedic surgery
Authors: Putra Domy Pradana , Mustamsir Edi , Phatama Krisna Yuarno , Pradana Ananto Satya , Cendikiawan Felix
Published: January 2025

Aim 3D printing technology revolutionises orthopaedic surgery by creating accurate patient-specific models, surgical guides, and implants. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated this trend, allowing localized solutions and biocompatible materials to replicate bone geometric complexity, enabling surgeons to plan and rehearse surgeries. This study aims to illustrate the use of 3D printing in the preoperative planning of a complex distal femur fracture.
Methods A 42-year-old woman with a complicated Gustilo-Anderson grade III-A fracture underwent 3D printing for implant planning, contouring, and screw trajectory visualization. The procedure took seven hours, and the surgery lasted only two hours, with no complications or complaints during a one-month follow-up.
Results 3D printing has revolutionized orthopaedic surgery by better visualizing complex fractures, reducing surgical time, and enhancing precision. Traditional 2D imaging techniques struggle to capture intricate details, requiring 3D printing for accurate preoperative planning and implant selection. However, challenges include high costs, time, and specialized training. Further research is needed to understand long-term outcomes.
Conclusion The benefits of 3D printing in orthopaedic surgery, including improved visualization, reduced time, and improved precision, highlight its potential for further advancement.
Correlation between physical activity and acute respiratory infections in preschool children
Authors: Melunović Melika , Lisičić-Konaković Mirela , Krdžalić– Zečević Belma , Kulašević Amela , Kurtalić Lejla
Published: January 2025

Aim To analyse a correlation between physical activity (PA) and acute respiratory infections (ARIs) in preschool children aged 5 to 7 years.
Methods Data on both ARIs, sedentary behaviour (SB) and PA were obtained through specially created questionnaires for this study and relationships between them were examined.
Results A total of 129 children with an average age of 72.2±4.2 months, with a slightly higher number of males, 65 (50.4%), have participated in the study. Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) were in a significantly negative correlation with the frequency of training on weekdays (p=0.041) and weekends (p=0.005). Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) had a significantly positive correlation with the frequency of usage of electronic gaming devices on weekdays (p=0.034), and a significant negative correlation with the frequency of spending time in nature on weekends (p=0.036). ARIs in total were in a significant negative correlation with the frequency of training on weekdays (p=0.025) and weekends (p=0.005).
Conclusion An increase of SB and reduced PA level showed a negative impact on the ARIs increase. It is recommended to introduce programs to increase PA among young children.
Justification of an interdisciplinary approach in the study of markers of mental states of combatants
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Kravchenko Kateryna , Sokolina Olha ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Yurkova Olha ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Podkovka Olha ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: January 2025

B a c k g r o u n d . The purpose of the article is to substantiate the feasibility of using an interdisciplinary approach in the study of markers of mental states of combatants. In general, the interdisciplinary approach in conducting scientific research is considered by the scientific community, both foreign and domestic, to be promising (due to the possibility of in-depth and comprehensive study of the subject of research), even despite the existence of certain shortcomings in its use.

M e t h o d s . At this stage of our scientific developments, theoretical methods of scientific research were used, namely: analysis, synthesis, generalization, abstraction, deduction.

R e s u l t s . The article analyzes modern views on the use of interdisciplinary research and identifies their main aspects, namely: approaches, characteristics, principles, stages, main advantages and disadvantages. The next step towards achieving the goal was to analyze the state of research on markers of mental states of combatants. By markers of mental states we mean specific indicators and manifestations that allow us to objectively assess and diagnose the mental state of an individual, including the presence or risk of mental disorders. Due to the fact that there are a sufficient number of mental states, we have identified those that are most common during participation in combat operations: combat stress, combat mental trauma and emotional burnout. As a result of the analysis, we have concluded that the mentioned mental states of combatants contain markers that should be considered not only within the psychological field. Therefore, the interdisciplinary approach that we propose is a consortium of psychology, psychophysiology, psychiatry and neurophysiology. The results obtained made it possible to determine the conceptual apparatus within the framework of an interdisciplinary approach, namely to give separate definitions to psychological, clinical (psychiatric), psychophysiological and neurophysiological markers of mental states.
Individual image as a social phenomenon in foreighn psychology
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Kucheriavyi Andrii
Published: January 2025

B a c k g r o u n d . The relevance of creating a holistic theory of personality image is realised by both practitioners working in this area and psychologists seeking to comprehend the material they have accumulated, but at the same time, it is often based on disparate concepts and facts borrowed from different psychological theories. Undoubtedly, in the history of psychology, the authors of each new theory of personality, seeking to come closer to the disclosure of the most complex problem of psychology – personality and its development, discover more and more new realities. Solving the problem of the connection between two complex realities 'personality' and 'image', the further analysis is aimed at finding points of contact, planes connecting these two phenomena, and finding the most productive way to create a theoretical basis for the study of individual image. Purpose – differential psychological analysis of the phenomenon of individual image in foreign psychology.

M e t h o d s . Content analysis allowed for quantification of the text with further interpretation of the results. The comparison helped to identify similarities and differences in the views of scholars on the essence and nature of the image phenomenon. The use of systematisation made it possible to bring together disparate knowledge about the phenomenon of image into a single scientific system and establish their unity.

R e s u l t s . The authors of each new theory of personality, trying to get closer to the disclosure of the most difficult problem of psychology – personality and its development, discover more and more new realities. The disadvantage of the existing theories of personality is their onesidedness, so personality is proposed to be considered as a complex entity that has three realities: biological, psychological and social, and several projection planes. That is why there are many interpretations of the concept of image, which is a consequence of a non-historical, non-holistic and non-genetic understanding of personality.

C o n c l u s i o n s . A differential psychological analysis of the individual image in foreign psychology as a social phenomenon has been carried out. The genesis of the concept of image in the world psychological thought is analysed; the differences in the semantic content of the concept of image by representatives of different scientific schools and trends in foreign psychology are considered.
Predictors of emotional burnout in military personnel: a correlational analysis of personal and professional factors
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Mykolaichuk Olena
Published: January 2025

B a c k g r o u n d . The relevance of studying emotional burnout in military personnel is driven by the extreme circumstances of today, considering the specific nature of military-professional activities, the influence of aggravating factors, and the growing need for effective preventive and corrective measures to support the mental health of military personnel. The purpose of the study is to examine the personal and professional factors, in the context of motivational theory, which can be predictors of this phenomenon.

M e t h o d s . The study employed both theoretical methods (analysis, comparison, generalization, systematization) and empirical methods, namely: the Burnout Assessment Tool (BAT), the Basic Psychological Need Satisfaction and Frustration Scale (BPNSFS), the Interpersonal Guilt Rating Scale – 15s (IGRS-15s), methods of mathematical statistics.

R e s u l t s . The prevalence of burnout among military personnel was analyzed, along with the factor loadings of components contributing to the development of the phenomenon as a whole. A close relationship was found between the facets of motivational theory (autonomy, relatedness, competence, guilt) and emotional burnout.

C o n c l u s i o n s . The study identified the characteristics of emotional burnout among the Armed Forces of Ukraine personnel. Personal predictors of this phenomenon were analyzed through the motivational theory with a focus on basic need satisfaction. Frustration, guilt and selfdemandingness occupy a special place among the factors contributing to this phenomenon. The importance of implementing preventive and psychocorrectional programs in military units, involving all categories of military personnel regardless of age, duration of service, or professional affiliation, is emphasized.
Current mental states of children of internally displaced persons in war conditions as a resource for their post-traumatic growth
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Safin Alexander
Published: January 2025

B a c k g r o u n d . The peculiarities of children's condition during the period of hostilities are characterised by the intensification of not only the symptoms of psychological maladjustment. There is also a reverse trend – the search for resources, both personal and social, starting with reliance on group values – support from family, community of friends, understanding oneself as part of the learning community and ending with reliance on deep inner values. The purpose is to evaluate and analyse the state of adolescents in war conditions, taking into account gender and the degree of exposure to extreme events related to hostilities.

M e t h o d s . Surveys, methods of mathematical statistics. The questionnaire is designed to assess the current state of a child and contains items that assess: manifestations of socio-psychological and mental maladjustment, individual symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder in various spheres of life, psychological resources for coping with stress, and self-assessment of well-being. The results were analysed using IBM SPSS 27.0.

R e s u l t s . The data analysis revealed the main features of the current state of students in the context of war: some adolescents have severe disadvantages in the psychophysiological, cognitive, emotional, communicative and behavioural spheres, and marked differences between boys and girls in assessing the manifestations of maladjustment and signs of PTSD. Pupils experience the consequences of hostilities, which lead to disruption of adaptation in vital areas for the individual. The results on the prevalence and severity of signs of socio-psychological maladjustment, as well as manifestations that can be attributed to PTSD signs, subjective well-being and psychological resources of students in overcoming stress are obtained. Statistically significant differences between students by gender were found.

C o n c l u s i o n s . The results of the study showed that some adolescents living in combat zones or who have had experiences related to combat are currently experiencing symptoms of maladjustment and severe disadvantage in the psychophysiological, cognitive, emotional, communicative and behavioural spheres. Such minors are at risk and need further diagnosis and targeted psychological assistance.
Application of the analytical hierarchy method in the area of defence expenditure managing
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Dyachenko Serhii , Artiushenko Оleksandr ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: January 2025

B a c k g r o u n d . Optimisation of defence expenditures is critical for ensuring the combat capability of the military and maintaining national security. Ukraine is increasing its expenditure on armaments and military equipment, which requires efficient management of budgetary resources to achieve maximum impact. Effective management of budgetary resources is crucial not only for ensuring the combat capability of military formations, but also for maintaining national security.

M e t h o d s . The article uses the AHP method with the use of pairwise comparisons and the Saaty scale to evaluate the criteria within the BOCR concept (benefits, costs, opportunities, risks).

R e s u l t s . The article develops a decision-making model based on the AHP concept to help in the evaluation and selection of suppliers. The model evaluates suppliers using a set of criteria grouped into four categories: Benefits, Costs, Opportunities and Risks (BOCR). Each criterion, such as price, product quality, delivery time and supplier reliability, was assigned a weight using a pairwise comparison matrix based on the Saaty scale. The AHP approach allowed both quantitative and qualitative criteria to be integrated into the decision-making process. After evaluating the three suppliers, Supplier 1 was identified as the most suitable option with the highest BOCR of 1.033.

C o n c l u s i o n s . The research conducted in this article has shown that the AHP-based decision-making model is an effective tool for optimising defence expenditure and improving procurement processes. Through the application of the BOCR concept, the model balances positive and negative factors, ensuring a transparent and efficient decision-making process. The use of pairwise comparisons ensures consistency of judgement and allows decision makers to rank alternatives in a systematic way. The paper emphasises the adaptability of the model to different operating environments: Microsoft Excel is used for data analysis and implementation, but programming languages can also be used. The results of the study demonstrate that multi-criteria optimisation methods such as AHP are valuable tools for optimisation in defence expenditure management, including the selection of suppliers of goods, works and services.
Legal nature of mediation in the conditions of armed conflict
Authors:   National Academy of Security Service of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine, Sliusarenko Olha
Published: January 2025

B a c k g r o u n d . Mediation in the realities of the modern world is one of the most common methods of peaceful resolution of armed conflicts, mainly due to its flexible procedure, which allows the parties to voluntarily decide on their participation in mediation, to freely choose a mediator, and to accept or reject the terms of conflict resolution established during the mediation procedures.

M e t h o d s . Dialectical, historical, comparative legal methods were used during the study of the reasoning of mediator scientists regarding the expediency of using the mediation procedure during the settlement of conflict situations; systemic-structural, formal-logical methods – to determine provisions that should be taken into account in the process of using mediation in conditions of armed conflict; methods of analysis, generalization and synthesis – for the development of author's proposals regarding the expediency of using the mediation procedure and the direct involvement of mediators in working with military personnel, civilians and during negotiation processes.

R e s u l t s . The study of different views of scientists on the role of a mediator – as a mediator directly during international political negotiations and peaceful settlements in the conditions of an armed conflict – is summarized and systematized. The main factors affecting the nature, process and directly the result of mediation in conditions of armed conflict are outlined. The role of a mediator during work on reconciliation with the civilian population and military personnel in conditions of armed conflict, as well as a negotiator during the negotiation process between warring parties is determined, and the mediation procedure is considered as an international instrument of reconciliation. The areas in which it is appropriate to use mediation in practice during various phases of military conflicts and for the sake of building a world culture of reconciliation have been developed and described.

C o n c l u s i o n s . The results of this study develop a new approach to the application of the mediation procedure (mediation) during the resolution of armed conflicts, characterize the main subjects of mediation – the parties to the conflict and the mediator, and analyze their decisions regarding the use of the mediation procedure. The study provides a better understanding of the complexity of mediation in an armed conflict. The article proposes to consider mediation as a rapidly growing field and practice of intercultural and international mediation and reconciliation.
Features of creating a vector geospatial database for use in the geoinformation portal of the Armed Forces of Ukraine
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Korenets Oleksandr , Pidlisetska Iryna ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Lytvynenko Natalia ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Kurach Tamara ,   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: January 2025

B a c k g r o u n d . The current situation in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, driven by the ongoing war on Ukrainian territory, underscores the critical need for timely provision of up-to-date geospatial data at all command levels. The use of vector geospatial databases by units and divisions of the armed forces of leading nations is a fundamental component of supporting modern military operations. These databases enable the acquisition of detailed information on geographic features, their status, infrastructure, and other essential aspects that assist the armed forces in effectively planning and executing assigned missions. The objective of this research is to analyze the content and stages of vector geospatial database formation within the armed forces of leading nations, as well as the existing vector geospatial database employed by the topographic service of the Armed Forces of Ukraine to develop recommendations and requirements for its structure and content for application in the Geoinformation Portal of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

M e t h o d s . In the preparation of this article, general scientific methods such as analysis, comparison, synthesis, analogy, and a systematic approach were utilized.

R e s u l t s . The study analyzes the structure of vector geospatial databases used by the armed forces of leading countries, which are essential in supporting modern military operations. The key technical specifications and standards regulating the creation and exchange of vector geospatial data, including in the military sector, are presented. Based on the research findings, the sources of initial data were reviewed, requirements for the structure and content of a vector geospatial database were defined, and potential enhancements for its effective use within the Geoinformation Portal of Armed Forces of Ukraine were proposed.

C o n c l u s i o n s . The research outcomes hold practical significance for the advancement of the geospatial support system within the Armed Forces of Ukraine and can be utilized in the development and modernization of military geoіformation systems that meet NATO standards. Because of this study, the authors have put forward proposals for amendments to Military Standard 01.110.001, "Topogeodetic Support. Cartographic Information Database for Creation and Use in ArcGIS Geoinformation Systems."
Using ARCGIS software for displaying operational situations in military units
Authors:   Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine, Oleksenko Dmytro , Mirzoyan Sergii ,   Military Unit A4983
Published: January 2025

B a c k g r o u n d . This article analyzes the role of modern geoinformation system (GIS) tools, such as ArcGIS, in depicting the operational situation in military formations. The importance of accurate and timely representation of the situation for supporting decision-making during military operations planning and operational response to changes in the situation is emphasized. Special attention is given to the software's capabilities for integrating data from various sources (satellite imagery, intelligence data) and visualizing it in the form of interactive maps.

M e t h o d s . The research is based on a comparative analysis of the functional capabilities of ArcGIS and CorelDRAW for solving tasks related to displaying the operational situation. The study includes an analysis of scientific sources, as well as a practical analysis of case studies related to the use of ArcGIS in military operations to determine its advantages in georeferencing and processing spatial data.

R e s u l t s . The analysis showed that ArcGIS provides more accurate georeferencing and integration of spatial data, which is crucial for timely updating changes in a dynamic military environment. ArcGIS offers powerful automation features that minimize manual work and increase the speed of updating the operational situation. CorelDRAW, in turn, has limited capabilities regarding geographic referencing and spatial analysis.

C o n c l u s i o n s . The use of ArcGIS allows military formations to quickly and accurately respond to changes in the operational situation. Through data integration and automation of processing, ArcGIS enhances the quality of operational planning and decision-making. Further research could focus on improving GIS technologies for military applications and adapting them to modern requirements.
Epilepsy and sleep: current diagnostic and treatment approaches
Authors: Shova N. I. , Bolshakova A. K. , Mikhailov V. A.
Published: January 2025

Background. Multiple complicated interactions exist between sleep and epilepsy – sleep activating effect on emerging epileptic seizures, altered sleep pattern due to epileptic activity, antiepileptic drugs impact on sleep pattern in epilepsy patients, as well as comorbidity of sleep disorders and epilepsy.

Objective: exploring a literature-based relationship between sleep and epileptic activity, as well as approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders in epilepsy.

Material and methods. Current literature review examined the data of presented analysis assessing a relationship between epilepsy and sleep. Publications were searched in the electronic databases PubMed/MEDLINE and eLibrary using key words and phrases: “epilepsy”, “sleep”, “antiepileptic drugs”, “sleep disorders”, “insomnia”, “obstructive sleep apnea syndrome”, “restless legs syndrome”, “depression”, “anxiety”, “non-psychotic mental disorders” in Russian and English.

Results. A literature review revealed complex relationships between epilepsy and sleep disorders. Epileptic activity, especially at night, can fragment sleep, reducing its restorative potential and provoking higher seizure incidence and severity. It was also shown that different antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) have ambiguous effects on sleep patterns: sedative AEDs may improve sleep, but may cause excessive daytime sleepiness if dosage and timing of administration are inappropriate. Challenges in differential diagnosis of sleep disorders in epilepsy treatment were highlighted, requiring a multidisciplinary approach due to the difficulty in distinguishing between symptoms caused by both epileptic activity and AEDs side effects as well as associated psychiatric disorders. To address these issues, an algorithm for diagnosis and correction of sleep disorders in epilepsy patients was proposed, aimed at optimizing therapy and improving the quality of life in this patient cohort.

Conclusion. Sleep disorders in patients with epilepsy can lead to the formation of a “vicious circle” and worsen the course of both diseases, therefore, it is necessary to ensure their timely diagnosis and correction.
Increased postictal creatine kinase in epilepsy patients
Authors: Lipatova L. V. , Sakovsky I. V.
Published: January 2025

Excessive muscle activity during generalized convulsive seizures in epilepsy patients in some cases can cause significant changes in blood plasma biochemical parameters, increased level of a set of metabolites, particularly, serum creatine kinase, accompanied by azotemia, which leads to prominent diagnostic and therapeutic difficulties. It is necessary to monitor the creatine kinase concentration after seizures, especially in case of electrolyte disturbances. To correct elevated creatine kinase or myoglobin levels, infusion therapy, urine alkalinization along with diuretics administration should be performed.
Methods for calculating EEG-based epileptiform activity index
Authors: Ivanov A. A.
Published: January 2025

Electroencephalography (EEG) is mainly used for epilepsy diagnostics in modern clinical practice. Epileptiform activity index (EAI) is recognized as one of the essential quantitative parameters for assessing the presence of epileptiform activity by using EEG. However, depending on EAI calculation method, the result may vary dramatically. In this regard, the term “epileptiform activity index” per se is not defined very clearly and remains unambiguous. Different manufacturers of EEG equipment like different medical specialists may put different meanings into this concept and understand it differently. The article discusses possible EAI calculation methods for EEG and clarifies the understanding of this term.
Role of neuropeptide Y in development of valproate-induced eating behaviour disorder
Authors: Shnayder N. A. , Grechkina V. V. , Kissin M. Ya. , Dmitrenko D. V. , Nasyrova R. F.
Published: January 2025

Background. Eating behaviour disorder (EBD) induced by valproic acid (VPA) is one of the components of the pathogenesis of a serious complication of therapy with VPA and its salts such as VPA-induced metabolic syndrome (MetS). About 20% of patients receiving VPA have weight gain, which is also a consequence of altered eating behaviour in such patients. Substances such as neuropeptide Y (NPY), leptin, orexin and ghrelin are involved in the regulation of eating behaviour. NPY has received special attention in recent years because it is one of the most potent brain orexigenic peptides and its expression level directly affects the quantity and quality of food intake. NPY overexpression is associated with EBD, food preferences, obesity, and MetS.

Objective: to review preclinical and clinical studies of NPY role as a potential sensitive and specific serum biomarker of VPA-EBD, secondary weight gain and VPA-MetS development in children and adults with epilepsy.

Material and methods. We analyzed Russian and foreign publications submitted to eLibrary, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases between 2014 and 2024. The full-text articles in Russian and English (original studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, Cochrane reviews, and clinical cases) were analyzed. After the selection procedure, 53 out of 1105 publications retrieved by query keywords were included in the analysis.

Results. VPA-EDB refers to multifactorial diseases, requiring to take into account the additive contribution of external (food education, eating habits of the patient and family members) and internal (key hormones and neuropeptides regulating appetite and food preferences, the dose and duration of VPA intake, the metabolic rate of VPA) factors while assessing a risk of its development. NPY-associated VPA-EDB affects dietary preferences in favor of high-calorie food and beverages, increases the frequency of meals, the risks of insulin resistance, hyperglycemia as one of the major domains in MetS pathogenesis.

Conclusion. VPA-EBD requires timely diagnosis, as it can cause VPA-MetS. NPY is an important biomarker of VPA-EBD, because recent studies have convincingly demonstrated that this neuropeptide is involved in the regulation of eating behavior in patients with epilepsy.
Systematic analysis of molecular mechanisms of action of essential macro- and micronutrients on the neurotransmitter and vasodilator molecule nitric oxide (NO)
Authors: Gromova O. A. , Torshin I. Yu.
Published: January 2025

Maintaining adequate levels of nitric oxide (NO) in the blood and other body tissues is necessary for the regulation of vascular tone, blood pressure, maintenance of oxygen metabolism and endothelial function. NO is also involved in regulating the balance of excitatory (glutamate) and inhibitory (gamma-aminobutyric acid) neurotransmission. Nutritional factors profoundly affect NO metabolism. Systematic computer analysis of 26,103 publications by methods of topological approach to recognition allowed to identify the most crucial fields of clinical research assessing relationships between NO metabolism and nutrients: arginine-derived NO synthase-driven NO production, nitrate-containing products, folates and vitamin B12 in NO homeostasis (including the effects of modifications of the vitamin B12 molecule), other B vitamins (B1, B2, B7), antioxidant vitamins (C and E), hormone-like vitamins D3 and A, electrolytes magnesium and calcium, participation of the microbiome in NO production.
Hypotheses of development and strategies for overcoming drug resistance in epilepsy. Part I: Hypotheses of development
Authors: Yakimov A. M. , Timechko E. E. , Paramonova A. I. , Vasilieva A. A. , Rybachenko F. K. , Rybachenko A. D. , Dmitrenko D. V.
Published: January 2025

Currently, the problem of effective therapy for drug-resistant epilepsy remains vastly relevant. The severity of drug-resistant epilepsy, remarkable negative social sequelae and sudden death in epilepsy pose a heavy burden on healthcare system. Although many innovative antiepileptic drugs have been developed in recent decades, surgical approach remains the only effective way to treat drug-resistant epilepsy which is coupled to significant health risks and does not guarantee freedom from seizures. The stumbling block in managing this pathology is the lack of knowledge on pathogenetic mechanisms, leaving a significant proportion of patients without quality medical care. There are different viewpoints on developing drug resistance in epilepsy, which are characterized by multilayered and overlapping molecular disease bases. The review presents the analysis of the existing hypotheses regarding the mechanisms underlying drug resistance development in epilepsy.
Phantoms and phantom limbs: history of describing the phenomenon
Authors: Korabelnikov D. I. , Tkachenko E. V. , Magomedaliev M. O.
Published: January 2025

“Phantom” is the sensation of missing body part. Phantom can occur after amputation of virtually any part of the body, but more often after amputation of the upper or lower limbs defined as a “phantom limb”. Such sensations can reach the severity of excruciating pain – phantom pain, significantly reducing the quality of patients’ life. Reports on phantoms, phantom limbs and phantom pain have been recorded since the early 16th century, but the exact underlying pathogenesis has not yet been determined, and many theories for their development have been proposed. The review discusses timeline of describing phantoms, phantom limbs and phantom pain in the scientific literature.
Congratulations to Professor Andrey S. Petrukhin on his 80th birthday!
Authors: Editorial Article
Published: January 2025

.
Topology optimization of the front loader’s working equipment
Authors: Popov Yury G.
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND: Topological optimization is widely used in aircraft construction and architecture, but is still of limited use in heavy mechanical engineering. At the same time, the metal cutting for production of working bodies, frames and other structures is often carried out by plasma cutters with computer numerical control. This makes it possible to produce flat parts of almost any complexity. Consequently, there is a field for using the topology optimization methods with no need to use additive technologies to create three-dimensional structures.
OBJECTIVE: Weight reduction of the structural components of the front loader’s working equipment without loss of rigidity and strength, as compared with traditional designs; exploration of the capabilities of topological optimization for solving this problem.
METHODS: The DM-30 loader was used as the base machine. Its work equipment was converted into a set of flat-shaped design volumes, to which the topological optimization methods of the Autodesk Inventor Professional (AIP) software package were applied. As the steel structure of the working equipment is subject to load in different directions during operation, a method of sequential generation of parts’ shapes for each design position and synthesis of all the shapes into a single object was used. The forces acting on the components of the working equipment were determined with dynamic simulation of the design positions for the base machine which made it possible to study the majority of operation cases.
RESULTS: As a result, the weight of the front loader was reduced by 36% while sustaining the same strength characteristics.
CONCLUSIONS: The proposed method of formation the optimized steel structure is capable of using simple topological optimization modules and obtaining up to 40% less metal-consuming spatial structures.
Current perspective on the problem of autoimmune gastritis
Authors: Shcherbachenya Nikita A. , Vasilenko Konstantin V.
Published: January 2025

Currently, there is an increase in the prevalence of autoimmune diseases. In particular, against the background of a decrease in the incidence of Helicobacter pylori associated gastritis, the number of patients with autoimmune gastritis increases. This is an autoimmune disease in which the destruction of the acid-producing gastric mucosa occurs due to the loss of parietal cells with their replacement by atrophic and metaplastic tissue, which leads to impaired absorption of iron, vitamin B12, deficiency states, anemia, neurological disorders and the development of malignant tumors. It is not fully known what triggers aggression. It is assumed that the autoimmune process can occur due to the interaction of genetic and environmental factors. In addition, the relationship between H. pylori and the development of autoimmune gastritis has not been fully studied.
Diagnosis of autoimmune gastritis is based on serological markers, but its leading method is esophagogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy. Several endoscopic signs allow one to suspect autoimmune gastritis: reverse atrophy; the presence of islets of preserved acid-producing mucosa; viscous mucus; protrusions in the body of the stomach, which are currently called "white spheres"; glomus formations, which are a proliferation of enterochromaffin-like cells. Atrophy of the mucous membrane of the body of the stomach is detected in biopsy material; three stages of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the body of the stomach can also be observed. Patients with autoimmune gastritis have an increased risk of developing malignant neoplasms, namely type 1 neuroendocrine tumors and adenocarcinoma. Therefore, regular monitoring is necessary for the early detection of these pathologies. However, the monitoring intervals have not been definitively determined. Most sources indicate the need for gastroscopy once every 1–3 years.