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A reliable control of current orientation of a spacecraft is a critical task in aerospace engineering, as the loss of the spacecraft’s attitude can endanger the whole mission. This makes it importa...

A control design framework for the coupled stability problem in robotics is presented. The proposed framework fundamentally generalizes the conventional passivity-based approaches to the coupled stability problem. In particular, it allows for stabilization of not necessarily passive robot-environment interaction where both the manipulator and the environment are dissipative systems with quadratic supply rates. In contrast with existing results, the proposed framework can be used in combination with an arbitrary robot’s tracking control algorithm, and its stabilizing action when in contact with environment does not affect the robot’s trajectory tracking performance in free space. The framework is based on the recently developed nonplanar conic systems formalism and generalized scattering-based stabilization methods. A detailed design example is presented which illustrates the capabilities of the proposed method.

Composite scintillation screens on a base of Gd1.2Y1.8Ga2.5Al2.5O12:Ce (GYAGG) scintillator have been evaluated for neutron detection. Besides the powdered scintillator, the composite includes 6LiF particles; both are merged with a binder and deposited onto the light-reflecting aluminum substrate. Results obtained demonstrates that screens are suitable for use with a silicon photomultiplier readout to create a prospective solution for a compact and low-cost thermal neutron sensor. Composite GYAGG/6LiF scintillation screen shows a pretty matched sensitivity and γ-background rejection with a widely used ZnS/6LiF screens however, possesses forty times faster response.

Ensembles of parallel nanowires, consists of the parts from different ferro-magnetic metals (for example-FeNi/Co/FeNi) were obtained by method of template synthesis. It was shown that such samples could be the sources of electromagnetic emission – irradiation of Terahertz range. It could be detected when current passed through the contacts at the sample with these wires. The methods of obtaining nanowires was proposed (two-bath galvanic technique), formation of contact layers at the surface (parallel narrow strips of metal) were proposed. The features of these radiation were investigated–it‘s threshold character, it‘s non-thermal origin and spatial distribution. The calculation was also presented, which demonstrated possibility of detecting of Terahertz irradiation, using ensemble of such nanowires, included ferro-magnetic metal and anti-ferromagnetic metal.

Peritoneal carcinomatosis is a variant of implantation metastasis of tumors sprouting the serous membrane of an organ. At the moment, the most effective treatment for this disease is regional chemotherapy. Systemic chemotherapy is not effective enough. The standard for the treatment of peritoneal carcinomatosis was cytoreductive interventions followed by open or closed hypertermic intraperitoneal chemoperfusion (HIPEC) or pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC). Purpose of the study: in an animal experiment to compare the efficacy and safety of regional chemotherapy methods HIPEC and PIPAC Materials and methods: the study was conducted on 44 rats of Wistar females. To simulate carcinomatosis, a strain of ascites ovarian tumor (OA) from the Russian Oncology Cancer Research Center N.N. Petrova. was used. The safety of the technique was evaluated clinically and based on laboratory blood tests. Efficiency - based on mass spectrometry, pathomorphological data and in assessing the life expectancy of animals. Results: the conducted methods HIPEC (open, closed) and PIPAC have shown their safety in experiments on laboratory animals. The closed HIPEC technique is most effective. The analysis of the incidence of postoperative complications demonstrated a greater aggressiveness of open and closed techniques compared to the more “sparing” PIPAC method. Conclusions: the experiment showed comparable safety of all animals tested. Due to the peculiarities of the technique, the PIPAC method can be used as an option for multi-stage treatment in cases where CPC and HIPEC are not possible due to a high index of peritoneal carcinomatosis, and as a neoadjuvant treatment to prevent peritoneal carcinomatosis. In any case, the prospects for using this method require further research.

The seismic resistance of vibration-insulated turbine foundations is a complex and multifaceted problem that includes many aspects. The turbine foundation is a special building structure that unites parts of the turbine and generator unit into a single machine and it is used for static and dynamic loads accommodation. The number of designed and constructed power plants in high seismic level areas is large and steadily growing. In addition, engineers and designers deal with the issue of the frequency composition of the seismic impact influence on the seismic resistance of vibration-insulated turbine foundations. Dynamic calculations were performed in Nastran software using time history analysis and the finite element method. The main criteria for the seismic resistance of a vibration-insulated turbine foundation are the values of the maximum seismic accelerations in the axial direction at the level of the turbine installation and the values of vibration-insulated foundation maximum seismic displacements (deformations of vibration isolators). The results of the calculation experiments proved a significant effect of seismic action frequency composition on the behavior of the vibration-insulated turbine foundations. Calculations of foundations, taking into account earthquakes of the same intensity, but with different values of the prevailing frequencies of the impact, lead to the differing by several times values of the maximum seismic accelerations at the turbine level and seismic displacements.

Respiratory care of premature neonates has witnessed substantial advances in the last two decades and has played a crucial role in decreasing early mortality in this population. This review outlines advances in techniques of synchronization and modes of synchronized invasive mechanical ventilation in neonates. The use of synchronized ventilation in the neonatal population was delayed as compared to adults, mainly because of technical reasons. Coordinating the infant's respiratory effort and the onset of mechanical ventilation in the neonatal population has requested high sensitivity instruments.

The postthrombotic syndrome (PTS) is chronic venous insufficiency secondary to a prior deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It is the most common complication of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and, while not fatal, it can lead to chronic, unremitting symptoms as well as societal and economic consequences. The cornerstone of PTS treatment lies in its prevention after DVT. Specific PTS preventative measures include the use of elastic compression stockings and pharmacomechanical catheter-directed thrombolysis. However, the efficacy of these treatments has been questioned by large randomized controlled trials (RCTs). So far, anticoagulation, primarily prescribed to prevent DVT extension and recurrence, appears to be the only unquestionably effective treatment for the prevention of PTS. In this literature review we present pathophysiological, biological, radiological, and clinical data supporting the efficacy of anticoagulants to prevent PTS and the possible differential efficacy among available classes of anticoagulants (vitamin K antagonists [VKAs], low molecular weight heparins [LMWHs] and direct oral anticoagulants [DOACs]). Data suggest that LMWHs and DOACs are superior to VKAs, but no head-to-head comparison is available between DOACs and LMWHs. Owing to their potentially greater anti-inflammatory properties, LMWHs could be superior to DOACs. This finding may be of interest particularly in patients with extensive DVT at high risk of moderate to severe PTS, but needs to be confirmed by a dedicated RCT.

Incluso en una sociedad conectada y multiplataforma, ante epidemias y grandes calamidades, la radio es (re)convocada al protagonismo dadas sus características de ser un dispositivo simple, barato y accesible. Ante el aislamiento social impuesto por el riesgo de contaminación por el coronavirus, muchos alumnos de Brasil se vieron imposibilitados de continuar sus estudios debido a la realización de clases virtuales y las dificultades de acceso a Internet. A partir de una investigación con metodología cualitativa y presentación descriptiva, este trabajo buscó entender los movimientos realizados por la programación radiofónica de varias ciudades brasileñas para este acercamiento con las comunidades afectadas, reforzando el papel de conectar a las personas y promover la interacción, intentando garantizar a la sociedad el derecho a la información. Por lo tanto, este trabajo describe una recopilación de iniciativas educativas con el objetivo de apuntar el esfuerzo permanente de la radio por abrigar los variados escenarios de comunicación. A partir del entendimiento de Kaplún (1978) para los programas educativos, recopilamos experiencias de producciones radiofónicas que fueron mediatizadas entre marzo y julio de 2020 en Brasil.

Background: The city of Manaus, Brazil, has seen two collapses of the health system due to the COVID-19 pandemic. We report anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid IgG antibody seroconversion rates and associated risk factors in Manaus residents before the second wave of the epidemic in Brazil. Methods: A convenience sample of adult (aged ≥18 years) residents of Manaus was recruited through online and university website advertising into the DETECTCoV-19 study cohort. The current analysis of seroconversion included a subgroup of DETECTCoV-19 participants who had at least two serum sample collections separated by at least 4 weeks between Aug 19 and Oct 2, 2020 (visit 1), and Oct 19 and Nov 27, 2020 (visit 2). Those who reported (or had no data on) having a COVID-19 diagnosis before visit 1, and who were positive for anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid IgG antibodies at visit 1 were excluded. Using an in-house ELISA, the reactivity index (RI; calculated as the optical density ratio of the sample to the negative control) for serum anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid IgG antibodies was measured at both visits. We calculated the incidence of seroconversion (defined as RI values ≤1·5 at visit 1 and ≥1·5 at visit 2, and a ratio >2 between the visit 2 and visit 1 RI values) during the study period, as well as incidence rate ratios (IRRs) through cluster-corrected and adjusted Poisson regression models to analyse associations between seroconversion and variables related to sociodemographic characteristics, health access, comorbidities, COVID-19 exposure, protective behaviours, and symptoms. Findings: 2496 DETECTCoV-19 cohort participants returned for a follow-up visit between Oct 19 and Nov 27, 2020, of whom 204 reported having COVID-19 before the first visit and 24 had no data regarding previous disease status. 559 participants were seropositive for anti-SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid IgG antibodies at baseline. Of the remaining 1709 participants who were seronegative at baseline, 71 did not meet the criteria for seroconversion and were excluded from the analyses. Among the remaining 1638 participants who were seronegative at baseline, 214 showed seroconversion at visit 2. The seroconversion incidence was 13·06% (95% CI 11·52–14·79) overall and 6·78% (5·61–8·10) for symptomatic seroconversion, over a median follow-up period of 57 days (IQR 54–61). 48·1% of seroconversion events were estimated to be asymptomatic. The sample had higher proportions of affluent and higher-educated people than those reported for the Manaus city population. In the fully adjusted and corrected model, risk factors for seroconversion before visit 2 were having a COVID-19 case in the household (IRR 1·49 [95% CI 1·21–1·83]), not wearing a mask during contact with a person with COVID-19 (1·25 [1·09–1·45]), relaxation of physical distancing (1·31 [1·05–1·64]), and having flu-like symptoms (1·79 [1·23–2·59]) or a COVID-19 diagnosis (3·57 [2·27–5·63]) between the first and second visits, whereas working remotely was associated with lower incidence (0·74 [0·56–0·97]). Interpretation: An intense infection transmission period preceded the second wave of COVID-19 in Manaus. Several modifiable behaviours increased the risk of seroconversion, including non-compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions measures such as not wearing a mask during contact, relaxation of protective measures, and non-remote working. Increased testing in high-transmission areas is needed to provide timely information about ongoing transmission and aid appropriate implementation of transmission mitigation measures. Funding: Ministry of Education, Brazil; Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado do Amazonas; Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)/WHO. World Health Organization Revisión por pares

We followed 110 patients who had sustained an acute traumatic Haemarthrosis for a mean of 60 months. The arthrometer measurements within 90 days of injury revealed the injured knee was stable in 35 patients and unstable in 75. Thirty-five unstable patients had an ACL reconstruction within 90 days of injury. Surgical procedures performed >90 days after injury included ligament reconstruction in 35 patients. Factors that correlated with patients who had late surgery for a meniscal tear or an ACL reconstruction < (P 0.05) were preinjury hours of sports participation, arthrometer measurements, and patient age. Follow-up data are presented for the patient’s divided into four groups: I, early stable, no reconstruction; II, early unstable, no reconstruction; III, early reconstruction; and IV, late reconstruction. No patient changed occupation because of the knee injury. Hours per year of sports participation and levels of sports participation decreased in all groups. Joint arthrosis was documented by radiograph and bone scan. Joint surface injury abnormalities observed at surgery and meniscal surgery showed greater abnormalities by radiograph and bone scan scores (P< 0.05). Reconstructed patients had a higher level of arthrosis by radiograph and bone scan. Anterior cruciate ligament injuries are common. The biggest the number of these injuries occur in sports activities, mainly those that involve deceleration, torsion, shear, and jumping movements. In a study on football team injuries in Albania, reported 2.4 injuries per year on an Albanian university football squad. Many patients remain disabled for sport afterwards an ACL injury; others appear to have minimal damage. Some patients develop secondary and degenerative meniscal ttaears knee arthritis; others show little joint deterioration. Few studies have documented the incidence of late meniscal tears after an ACL injury. Due to the variability of patient impairment after ACL injury and the lack of documentation that ACL surgery prevents degenerative arthritis, controversy over indications for ligament surgery. Moreover, a large number of patients do not often follow the entire functional rehabilitation process. The purpose of this prospective study was to document the outcome of the patient with ACL injury and the search for factors identifiable immediately after the injury correlating with a greater risk of functional impairment, secondary meniscus tears and joint arthrosis.

The paper proposes the use of the method of renormalization with limitation (MRL) for suppressing the speckle noise of images obtained using sonar. The method is tested on real images obtained by the interferometric side-view sonar. The principal possibility of a significant reduction in the speckle noise level is found due to the fact that the MRL renormalizes the spectrum of the sonar image to the universal reference spectrum (URS) model, which is a model of the spectrum of a "good" quality grayscale image. To increase the overall sharpness of the image, after applying the MRL, it is proposed to use spatial brightness transformations. The study allows us to conclude that the application of MRL to sonar images can significantly reduce speckle noise.

Psammocarcinoma is a rare subtype of serous epithelian neoplasms arising from the ovaries and the peritoneum. It is characterized by massive psammoma body formation, low-grade cytological features, and invasiveness. We present a case of a 59-year-old female diagnosed with relapse of ovarian psammocarcinoma. She was operated 4 years previously and did not undergo chemotherapy. We performed a systematic search on this topic using the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases. In the literature 33 cases of ovarian psammocarcinoma are reported. We discuss the clinicopathological features of these patients. Ovarian psammocarcinoma is a rare and not well described disease. Due to the small number of cases found in the literature, no conclusions can be drawn about the tumour characteristics.

Background. The participation of emerging market economies and developing countries in global agri-food markets is becoming more active: their exports already exceed a third of the global volume. Purpose. It consists in studying the experience and identifying the most common and significant trends associated with the field of agricultural exports in the Eurasian Economic Union. Materials and methods. The research information base includes the legal and regulatory framework: Treaty on the Eurasian Economic Union, Recommendation of the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission dated December 22, 2015 No. 28 “On the coordination of sales and marketing policies of the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union in relation to the export of agricultural products and foodstuffs”, Recommendation of the Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission dated December 13, 2016 No. 30 “On coordinated actions of the member states of the Eurasian Economic Union in the development of the export potential of agricultural products and food”; Declaration on the establishment of ASEAN and empirical: statistics of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the Eurasian Economic Commission, ASEAN, the World Trade Center. In this work, dialectical, systemic, logical, comparative research methods were used. Results. The level of development of support systems for the agro-industrial sector in each specific state of the EAEU is very different from each other. The main differences include the number of support institutions, their nature, competencies and powers. Conclusion. The goals of the single integration policy of the EAEU in the field of agriculture are diverse. The most important of them include support for agricultural producers, creating conditions for healthy competition, increasing production and export volumes.

Diagnostic errors of spinal cord injuries with combined trauma in children are facilitated by the patient’s age, which does not allow foran adequate neurological assessment of motor and sensitive disorders, a reduced state of consciousness in severe traumatic brain injury,the lack of modern methods of neuroimaging in primary hospitals, insufficient qualifications and experience of medical personnel. Aim. To demonstrate outcomes of diagnostic errors in traumatic spinal cord injury in children on clinical examples of two patients. Material and methods. The object of observation was children with severe combined trauma, whose post-traumatic spinal cord injurywas missed in the primary hospital. To diagnose the current condition, the following were used: clinical examination with a neurologicalassessment on the ASIA scale, assessment of motor functioning, laboratory monitoring, instrumental examination, ultrasoundmonitoring, X-ray, MRI, CT, CT densitometry, ECG, echocardiography, USDG. In addition, neuropsychological assessment was made so to evaluate cortical functions and to reveal consequences of traumatic brain injury. Results. The cause of errors in the diagnostics of spinal cord injury in children is the underestimation of state severity due to the combinedtype of injury or small age of the child. Conclusion. The experience of the multidisciplinary team of specialists in the diagnosis and medical rehabilitation of children withspinal cord injury missed in the primary hospital indicates the need to conduct a full-fledged neurological examination, CT accordingto the “head to toe” program and MRI, even if there is a slight suspicion of the spinal cord damage.Underestimation of the severity of the child’s condition with concomitant trauma, including spinal cord injury, leads to the deprivationnot only in the motor function restoration, but also to deterioration in the quality of life of the family and to the problems associatedwith patient’s integration into society.

Therapeutics that inhibit enzymes, receptors, ion channels, and cotransporters have long been the mainstay of cardiovascular medicine. Now, oligonucleotide therapeutics offer a modern variation on this paradigm of protein inhibition. Rather than target a protein, however, small interfering ribonucleic acids and antisense oligonucleotides target the messenger RNA (mRNA) from which a protein is translated. Endogenous, cellular mechanisms enable the oligonucleotides to bind a selected sequence on a target mRNA, leading to its degradation. The catalytic nature of the process confers an advantage over the stoichiometric binding of traditional small molecule therapeutics to their respective protein targets. Advances in nucleic acid chemistry and delivery have enabled development of oligonucleotide therapeutics against a wide range of diseases, including hyperlipidemias and hereditary transthyretin-mediated amyloidosis with polyneuropathy. While most of these therapeutics were initially designed for rare diseases, recent clinical trials highlight the potential impact of oligonucleotides on more common forms of cardiovascular disease.

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the perspectives of university students on the learning management system (LMS) and determine factors that influence user experience and the outcomes of e-learning.Design/methodology/approachThis paper employs a mixed-method approach. For qualitative data, 20 semi-structure interviews were conducted. Moreover, for quantitative data, a short survey was developed and distributed among the potential respondents.FindingsThe results showed that students, particularly in programs where courses are mainly offered online, are dependent on such learning platforms. Moreover, the use of modular object-oriented dynamic learning environment (Moodle) as an application of LMS was rated positively, and e-learning was considered as an effective sustainable learning solution in current conditions.Originality/valueThe authors have illustrated empirically how the notion of UX of the LMS provides a means of exploring both students' participation in e-learning and their intention towards using such learning platforms.

BackgroundThyrotoxic atrial fibrillation (TAF) is a recognized significant complication of hyperthyroidism. Early identification of the individuals predisposed to TAF would improve thyrotoxic patients’ management. However, to our knowledge, an instrument that establishes an individual risk of the condition is unavailable. Therefore, the aim of this study is to build a TAF prediction model and rank TAF predictors in order of importance using machine learning techniques.MethodsIn this retrospective study, we have investigated 36 demographic and clinical features for 420 patients with overt hyperthyroidism, 30% of which had TAF. At first, the association of these features with TAF was evaluated by classical statistical methods. Then, we developed several TAF prediction models with eight different machine learning classifiers and compared them by performance metrics. The models included ten features that were selected based on their clinical effectuality and importance for model output. Finally, we ranked TAF predictors, elicited from the optimal final model, by the machine learning tehniques.ResultsThe best performance metrics prediction model was built with the extreme gradient boosting classifier. It had the reasonable accuracy of 84% and AUROC of 0.89 on the test set. The model confirmed such well-known TAF risk factors as age, sex, hyperthyroidism duration, heart rate and some concomitant cardiovascular diseases (arterial hypertension and conjestive heart rate). We also identified premature atrial contraction and premature ventricular contraction as new TAF predictors. The top five TAF predictors, elicited from the model, included (in order of importance) PAC, PVC, hyperthyroidism duration, heart rate during hyperthyroidism and age.ConclusionsWe developed a machine learning model for TAF prediction. It seems to be the first available analytical tool for TAF risk assessment. In addition, we defined five most important TAF predictors, including premature atrial contraction and premature ventricular contraction as the new ones. These results have contributed to TAF prediction investigation and may serve as a basis for further research focused on TAF prediction improvement and facilitation of thyrotoxic patients’ management.

AIM OF THE STUDY Analysis of the impact of bradycardia and hypoxemia on the course of cerebral and peripheral oxygenation parameters in preterm infants in need for respiratory support during foetal-to-neonatal transition. METHODS The first 15 min after birth of 150 preterm neonates in need for respiratory support born at the Division of Neonatology, Graz (Austria) were analyzed. Infants were divided into different groups according to duration of bradycardia exposure (no Bradycardia, brief bradycardia

Following vaginal hysterectomy (VH), fixation of the vaginal vault is needed to prevent post-operative recurrence/exacerbation of vault prolapse. The effectiveness of McCall culdoplasty in cases of advanced prolapse is unclear. We aimed to compare the effectiveness of McCall culdoplasty following VH in patients with mild versus advanced stages of uterine prolapse. In this retrospective study, the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory (PFDI-20) was utilized to compare the subjective results of vaginal hysterectomy plus McCall culdoplasty between women with mild uterine prolapse stage 2 (mild prolapse group) and advanced uterine prolapse stages 3–4 (advanced prolapse group). The primary outcome, the subjective awareness of prolapse, was analyzed as well as all other aspects of PFDI-20. A sample size of 130 was calculated. The mild prolapse group consisted of 26 (19.3%) patients and the advanced prolapse group consisted of 109 (80.7%) patients. There were no differences between the groups in demographic and clinical characteristics. The rates of concomitant prolapse and incontinence surgeries, performed at the time of VH and post-operative complications. were the same between groups. The mean follow-up was more than 5 years in both groups. Awareness of prolapse was similar between the groups (11.5% in the mild prolapse group and 5.5% in the advanced prolapse group, p = 0.374). There was no significant correlation between the stage of apical prolapse before surgery and awareness of prolapse after the surgery (r = 0.0132, p = 0.879). All aspects of the PFDI-20 questionnaire were similar in the two groups. McCall culdoplasty was found to have an equal subjective effectiveness following VH in both mild and advanced stages of uterine prolapse.

Emerging memristive devices offer enormous advantages for applications such as non-volatile memories and in-memory computing (IMC), but there is a rising interest in using memristive technologies for security applications in the era of internet of things (IoT). In this review article, for achieving secure hardware systems in IoT, low-power design techniques based on emerging memristive technology for hardware security primitives/systems are presented. By reviewing the state-of-the-art in three highlighted memristive application areas, i.e. memristive non-volatile memory, memristive reconfigurable logic computing and memristive artificial intelligent computing, their application-level impacts on the novel implementations of secret key generation, crypto functions and machine learning attacks are explored, respectively. For the low-power security applications in IoT, it is essential to understand how to best realize cryptographic circuitry using memristive circuitries, and to assess the implications of memristive crypto implementations on security and to develop novel computing paradigms that will enhance their security. This review article aims to help researchers to explore security solutions, to analyze new possible threats and to develop corresponding protections for the secure hardware systems based on low-cost memristive circuit designs.

Introduction: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is а neurodegenerative disorder characterized mainly by its motor symptoms. The non-motor symptoms including pain are increasingly recognized in the last few decades. Existing evidence suggests that the dopaminergic neurotransmission has an essential role in pain control. Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the antinociceptive effect of dopaminergic drugs pramipexole and tolcapone against chemical and thermal stimuli in naive rats. Materials and methods: Male Wistar rats divided into 8 groups (n=8): saline; diclofenac 25 mg/kg body weight (bw) (positive control); pramipexole 0.5; 1 and 3 mg/kg bw; tolacapone 5; 15 and 30 mg/kg bw. Paw pressure and plantar tests were performed. Paw withdrawal pressure and latent time were measured. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS 19. Results: In the paw pressure test, pramipexole, in a dose of 1 and 3 mg/kg bw and tolcapone in a dose of 30 mg/kg bw, increased significantly the latency at 1, 2, and 3 hours compared to saline (p Conclusions: Pramipexole and tolcapone reduce mechanical and thermal nociception in naïve rats by enhancing dopaminergic neurotransmission at both spinal and supraspinal levels. In addition, tolcapone stimulates noradrenergic mediation which may contribute to its antinociceptive effect.

A major challenge for HIV vaccine development is to raise anti-envelope antibodies capable of recognizing and neutralizing diverse strains of HIV-1. Accordingly, a full length single chain (FLSC) of gp120-CD4 chimeric vaccine construct was designed to present a highly conserved CD4-induced (CD4i) HIV-1 envelope structure that elicits cross-reactive anti-envelope humoral responses and protective immunity in animal models of HIV infection. IHV01 is the FLSC formulated in aluminum phosphate adjuvant. We enrolled 65 healthy adult volunteers in this first-in-human phase 1a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study with three dose-escalating cohorts (75 µg, 150 µg, and 300 µg doses). Intramuscular injections were given on weeks 0, 4, 8, and 24. Participants were followed for an additional 24 weeks after the last immunization. The overall incidence of adverse events (AEs) was not significantly different between vaccinees and controls. The majority (89%) of vaccine-related AE were mild. The most common vaccine-related adverse event was injection site pain. There were no vaccine-related serious AE, discontinuation due to AE, intercurrent HIV infection, or significant decreases in CD4 count. By the final vaccination, all vaccine recipients developed antibodies against IHV01 and demonstrated anti-CD4i epitope antibodies. The elicited antibodies reacted with CD4 non-liganded Env antigens from diverse HIV-1 strains. Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity against heterologous infected cells or gp120 bound to CD4+ cells was evident in all cohorts as were anti-gp120 T-cell responses. IHV01 vaccine was safe, well tolerated, and immunogenic at all doses tested. The vaccine raised broadly reactive humoral responses against conserved CD4i epitopes on gp120 that mediates antiviral functions.

INTRODUCTION: Kisspeptins (KISS), a group of brain neuropeptides are involved in sexual behavior. KISS activate the hypothalamic neurons that synthesize gonadotropin releasing hormone. KISS was also detected in the limbic system. Earlier, we showed the activation of sexual motivation after the administration of kisspeptin-10 without increasing the level of testosterone in male rats, which suggests the extrahypothalamic effect of KISS. The aim of this work was to study the possibility of aquisition of conditioned place preference of kisspeptin-10, as well as to study the emotional and investigational behavior in rats after intranasal peptide administration. METHODS: Conditioned place preference test (CPP), open field test (OP) and elevated plus maze (EPM) were used in male Wistar rats. RESULTS: When studying CPP, animals spent 78.6 6.3% of the time in the chamber associated with the administration of KISS compared to control animals with administration of physiological saline (51.2% of the experiment time; p 0.05). After kisspeptin-10 administration locomotor activity was 2-fold increased (p 0.05), and the number of sniffings was 2-fold increased too (p 0.05). The parameters did not significantly differ in animals treated with kisspeptin or saline in PCL. CONCLUSION: Thus repeated intranasal administration of kisspeptin-10 induces the aquisition of CPP in rats. This suggests that kisspeptin-10 can cause activity in the reward system or the activation of brain regions associated with this system, which ultimately leads to the formation of an emotionally positive state.

PurposeDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, educational institutions were forced to shut down, causing massive disruption of the education system. This paper aims to determine the critical factors for the intention to participate in e-learning during COVID-19.Design/methodology/approachData were collected by surveying 131 university students and structural equation modelling technique using PLS-SEM was employed to analysis the data.FindingsThe results showed that the COVID-19 related factors such as perceived challenges and COVID-19 awareness not only directly impact students' intention but also such effects are mediated through perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use of e-learning systems. However, the results showed that the educational institution's preparedness does not directly impact the intention of students to participate in e-learning during COVID-19. The results also showed that the gender and length of the use of e-learning systems impact students' e-learning systems use.Originality/valueThese results demonstrated that, regardless of how well the educational institutions are prepared to promote the use of e-learning systems, other COVID-19-related challenges play a crucial role in forming the intention of students to participate in e-learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Theoretical and practical implications are provided.

Background We tested whether CHA2DS2-VASc and/or HAS-BLED scores better predict ischemic stroke and major bleeding, respectively, than their individual components in maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods A retrospective cohort study of a clinical database containing the medical records of 268 MHD patients with non-valvular AF (167 women, mean age 73.4 ± 10.2 years). During the median follow-up of 21.0 (interquartile range, 5.0–44.0) months, 46 (17.2%) ischemic strokes and 24 (9.0%) major bleeding events were reported. Results Although CHA2DS2-VASc predicted ischemic stroke risk in the study population (adjusted HR 1.74 with 95% CI 1.23–2.46 for each unit of increase in CHA2DS2-VASc score, and HR of 5.57 with 95% CI 1.88–16.49 for CHA2DS2-VASc score ≥ 6), prior ischemic strokes/transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) were non-inferior in both univariate and multivariate analyses (adjusted HR 8.65 with 95% CI 2.82–26.49). The ROC AUC was larger for the prior ischemic stroke/TIA than for CHA2DS2-VASc. Furthermore, the CHA2DS2-VASc score did not predict future ischemic stroke risks in study participants who did not previously experience ischemic strokes/TIAs (adjusted HR 1.41, 95% CI: 0.84–2.36). The HAS-BLED score and its components did not have predictive abilities in discriminating bleeding risk in the study population. Conclusions Previous ischemic strokes are non-inferior for predicting of future ischemic strokes than the complete CHA2DS2-VASc score in MHD patients. CHA2DS2VASc scores are less predictive in MHD patients without histories of CVA/TIA. HAS-BLED scores do not predict major bleeding in MHD patients. These findings should redesign approaches to ischemic stroke risk stratification in MHD patients if future large-scale epidemiological studies confirm them.

Purpose: For the past several decades, internal anal sphincterotomy has generally been considered to be the standard operation for an anal fissure. However, wound complications inherent in this operation forced surgeons to look for an alternative form of treatment. The aim of our study was to evaluate the long-term outcome of anal dilatation for chronic anal fissure, especially possible negative impact on anal sphincter function.Methods: The study was approved by the local Institutional Review Board and given a waiver of written consent. A phone call survey was undertaken among a group of consecutive patients who had an anal dilatation by standardized technique for chronic anal fissure for the period between 2000 and 2016. The survey included medical, obstetrical and surgical-related data, Wexner fecal incontinence score, recurrence of the anal fissure, and the need for additional medical intervention. Five hundred 48 patients were identified after limitations of age, concomitant pathology, and procedures that were applied to the hospital computerized database. Eighty-five patients (group A) agreed to participate in the survey and 463 patients did not.Results: There were no differences between groups in demographic information and medical records data; therefore, group A may well represent a satisfactory sample of the whole group. The interval between the procedure and the survey was 6.8 ± 2.7 years. The Wexner incontinence score was 0 in 94% of patients.Conclusion: Anal dilatation, performed in a systematic and standardized way, has a successful outcome with no complications and has no clear long-term negative impact on anal sphincter function.

One of the features of traumatic spinal cord injury in children is a high probability of the isloted form of its injury (syndrome SCIWORA – spinal cord injury without radiograph abnormality). Mobility and elasticity of the spine column in childhood explains a relatively rare incidence of its injury in young children; however, we meet a high incidence of the isolated spinal trauma in this group of patients. According to various authors, SCIWORA is more common in children under the age of 5 ~ 64%; from 6 to 12 ~ 35%; over 12 – about 20%. The relevance of the present study is explained by errors in the isolated spinal cord injury diagnostics and by the lack of clear clinical and diagnostic algorithm optimizing SCIWORA verification in this category of patients. Aim. To analyze the level of SCIWORA diagnostics in children with spinal cord injury (SCI) in a specialized surgical hospital as well as to assess reasons of misdiagnostics. Material and methods. 167 children with SCI were included into the study. They were admitted to the Clinical and Research Institute of Emergency pediatric Surgery and trauma (CRIEpSt) in 2014-2020. Depending on the time of admission, patients were divided into two groups: Group I – children who were admitted to the hospital within the first month after injury; Group II – children who were admitted later. Children aged 12.2 ± 5.0 y.o., in average. All patients were examined for their neurological status by ASIA scale; they also had radial diagnostics: computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Results. The isolated spinal cord injury (SCIWORA) was revealed in 6.0% of children with SCI who were admitted to CRIEpSt in 2014 – 2020. The greater number of SCIWORA (60%) occurred as a result of road accidents and was recorded in the thoracic region (50%). Isolated the soinal cord injury occured more often in the age groups under 5 y. o. and 5 – 12 y.o. (by 40% in each age group). The severity of spinal cord injury in SCIWORA depends on the very mechanism of such damage: A – 80%, B – 20% by ASIA scale. In SCIWORA, computed tomography does not allow to fully assess SCI severity. MRI is prescribed for more precise diagnostics: to clearly visualize damages to the ligamentous apparatus and intervertebral discs; in addition to clinical findings to confirm contusion, hematomyelia, partial or complete rupture of the spinal cord; to make rehabilitation prognosis using tractography. Conclusion. The reasons for errors in the isolated spinal cord injury diagnosis in children is a result of underestimated severity of child’s condition due to his/her young age or due to the combination of SCI with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) with a reduced state of consciousness. In case of even a slight suspicion of isolated spinal cord injury, the diagnostic algorithm in little children or in patients with reduced consciousness state should include a “head-to-toe” CT scanning and MRI examination in addition to a full-fledged neurological examination.

This paper argues that the Statement of Cash Flows should be re‐oriented around the concept of Cash Flows to Equity Holders. This re‐orientation seems attractive for conceptual and internal consistency reasons. The Income Statement and the Balance Sheet are already oriented around reporting the residual claim of equity holders. Thus, re‐orienting the Statement of Cash Flows around Cash Flows to Equity Holders naturally aligns it with the other two principal financial statements. The change also has considerable practical appeal for major users of financial reporting, especially investors who are interested in equity cash flows for forecasting and valuation. Finally, the proposed change is unusually easy to implement, essentially limited to different presentation of already existing information.

Plasmon induced hot carrier transfer is a promising novel approach for solar energy conversion, but its practical application is often hindered by its low efficiency. This work demonstrates an unpr...

To control the specific activity of 226Ra in building materials of operated buildings, a non-destructive in situ method consisted in measurements of gamma spectra with a fixed geometry of the detector position in a room is suggested. The calculation of the average specific activity of natural radionuclides in building materials is carried out by comparing the calculated flux density of unscattered gamma quanta normalized to the specific activity of 100 Bq/kg, and the experimentally measured count rates in the photopeak. For the measured values of the average specific activity of 226Ra in building materials, the expected values of radon concentration in rooms were calculated. The developed method has been verified for rooms in modern multi-storey energy-efficient buildings. Concentrations of 232Th and 40K in building materials which contribute to the indoor external radiation exposure can be measured by developed method also.

In most cases, COVID-19 has a favorable outcome. However, the risk of developing critical forms of the disease, including secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis HLH (cytokine storm syndrome), remains high. This dictates the interest in studying pathogenetic mechanisms, features of the clinical picture, laboratory and instrumental criteria for covid-19 disease. The article analyzes the causes of acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiple organ failure as manifestations of HLH. The necessity of monitoring signs of hyperinflammation (ferritin, C-reactive protein, etc., biomarkers of inflammation) and activation of thrombosis is substantiated, in order to make timely decisions about the beginning of pathogenetic therapy. However, there are limitations for routine testing of the level of Pro-inflammatory cytokines. Information about the diagnostic criteria of HLH is summarized, and the expediency of these criteria for establishing secondary HLH, which has complicated the course of COVID-19, is emphasized.

The Toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5) agonist entolimod, a derivative of Salmonella flagellin, has therapeutic potential for several indications including radioprotection and cancer immunotherapy. However, in Phase 1 human studies, entolimod induced a rapid neutralizing immune response, presumably due to immune memory from prior exposure to flagellated enterobacteria. To enable multi-dose applications, we used structure-guided reengineering to develop a next-generation, substantially deimmunized entolimod variant, GP532. GP532 induces TLR5-dependent NF-κB activation like entolimod but is smaller and has mutations eliminating an inflammasome-activating domain and key B- and T-cell epitopes. GP532 is resistant to human entolimod-neutralizing antibodies and shows reduced de novo immunogenicity. GP532 also has improved bioavailability, a stronger effect on key cytokine biomarkers, and a longer-lasting effect on NF-κB. Like entolimod, GP532 demonstrated potent prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy in mouse models of radiation-induced death and tissue damage. These results establish GP532 as an optimized TLR5 agonist suitable for multi-dose therapies and for patients with high titers of preexisting flagellin-neutralizing antibodies., Mett et al. describe development of GP532, a substantially deimmunized derivative of Toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5) agonist entolimod. GP532 has mutations eliminating key B- and T-cell epitopes and an inflammasome-activating domain yet remains a potent NF-κB activator with biological effects similar to entolimod. Thus, GP532 is suitable for multi-dose TLR5-targeting therapies and patients with high titers of preexisting flagellin-neutralizing antibodies.

Introduction. It is established that the most effective tool for monitoring and controlling the dynamics of current trajectories (CT) of unmanned vehicles (UMV) when moving along opencast mine routes in open pit mining is the wavelet transforms technique. Methodology. A detailed analysis of the procedures related to the technology of converting 1D-current trajectory signals (CT-signals) into a multidimensional medium of time-frequency distributions (TFD) is carried out. The Wigner distribution is selected as a working distribution for processing CT-signals. This distribution is considered from the point of view of its ability to represent one-dimensional CT-signals of UMV in an information-intensive and functionally transparent format of specific TFDs. Research results and analysis. On the example of curved routes, the nature of the so-called forward and reverse transients of CT-signals of UMV, formed in the subsystems of external and autonomous control (ECSS and ACSS) of unmanned vehicles, is considered. Mathematical tools are described for wavelet transformations: Gabor wavelet functions, the wavelet matching pursuit algorithm (MP-algorithm), and Cohen’s class time-frequency wavelet distributions. Conclusion. The procedures of processing the trajectory signals with using the means mentioned above make it possible to implement effectively the functions of controlling the UMV movement along current trajectories formed by the system on opencast mine routes.

PURPOSE Respiratory failure (RF) is one of the most common reasons for hospitalization in pediatric intensive care units (PICU). We propose a radiography-based severity score for the assessment of children with RF and investigate the possible associations with severity indices and outcome. MATERIALS AND METHODS Children with acute RF admitted in PICU were enrolled. Disease severity scores [Pediatric Risk of Mortality (PRISM) and Pediatric Logistic Organ Dysfunction (PELOD)], the ratio of partial pressure arterial oxygen and fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2) ratios, duration of ventilator support (DVS), length of PICU and hospital stay (LOS), and outcome were recorded. A 5-point radiography score that considered potential radiographic findings was derived through stepwise multivariable logistic regression analysis, and validated. Radiographs upon PICU admission and on the worst RF day (maximum respiratory support and worst oxygenation/ventilation parameters) were blindly reviewed and independently scored by 2 radiologists and 2 clinicians, following training. RESULTS We enrolled 104 children [median age 2.7 (interquartile range, 0.5 to 9.6) y, 65.4% boys]. Overall, 163 radiographs (PICU admission: 86, worst RF day: 77) were assessed. Radiography scores correlated positively with predicted mortality (PELOD, PRISM), DVS, LOS (all P

International bodies such as the WHO call on member states to regulate and, where possible, integrate Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) into health systems, to the benefit and safety of patients. Research on CAM regulations in the Republic of Georgia has been limited. The aim of this study was to identify key actors and analyse the regulatory environment for CAM in Georgia in its local and international contexts. We conducted a health policy analysis using a triangle framework of content, context and processes. We used data from national government, professional associations and academia; and drew from primary qualitative data of stakeholders' perspectives and needs regarding CAM in Georgia. The several CAM associations we identified have limited capacities for self-regulation. CAM practices are currently not effectively regulated in Georgia, while the government has no expressed intention to develop regulatory frameworks. Georgia's CAM health policy is currently not compliant with WHO and European directives and recommendations. Government, lawmakers, public administration, academia, physicians, non-physician CAM practitioners and other actors should constitute a national working group dedicated to CAM regulations in Georgia to identify, classify CAM practices; and develop core principles for policy making for safe and effective CAM practiced in Georgia's health system.

Objective To compare sucrose 24% oral gel formulation to liquid formula and breastfeeding during a heel prick in neonates. Study design In this comparative effectiveness research 195 neonates >36 weeks' gestation were randomised to three groups, receiving during heel stick: (i) breastfeeding, (ii) sucrose 24% liquid with non-nutritive sucking and (iii) sucrose 24% gel with non-nutritive sucking. The pain was assessed through the Neonatal Infant Pain Scale. Results All the methods analysed has shown to be effective in reducing pain. There was an increase in odds of pain following liquid sucrose compared to breastfeeding (OR = 1.60; 95% CI: 0.82-3.3; p = 0.17). A reduction of odds of pain was showed comparing sucrose to breastfeeding (OR = 0.78; 0.38-1.6; 0.48), and comparing sucrose gel to liquid formula (OR = 0.48; 0.23-0.96; p = 0.04). Conclusion Sucrose 24% gel with non-nutritive sucking seems to be a valid alternative when breastfeeding is not possible. Further research is needed.

OBJECTIVES Cholestasis is caused by a wide variety of etiologies, often genetic in origin. Broad overlap in clinical presentations, particularly in newborns, renders prioritizing diagnostic investigations challenging. In this setting, a timely, comprehensive assessment using a multigene panel by a clinical diagnostic laboratory would likely prove useful. We summarize initial findings from a testing program designed to discover genetic causes of cholestasis. METHODS A neonatal/adult sequencing panel containing 66 genes (originally 57; nine added March 2017) relevant to cholestasis was used. A broad range of eligible patients were enrolled with current/history of cholestasis without an identified cause, or unexplained chronic liver disease. DNA sequencing utilized a custom-designed capture library, and variants were classified and reported as benign, likely benign, variant of unknown significance (VOUS), likely pathogenic (LP), or pathogenic (P), according to the clinical interpretation workflow at EGL Genetics (Tucker, GA). RESULTS A total of 2433 samples were submitted between February 2016 and December 2017; 2171 results were reported. Median turnaround time was 21 days. Results from the 2171 subjects (57%

The article presents a clinical case of a prolonged course of gastrointestinal ulcer disease, followed by dysphagia. During the examination, severe hyperparathyroidism was revealed, which subsequently prompted a diagnostic search for a parathyroid adenoma, which is the cause of hyperathyroidism in 8085% of cases. With instrumental methods of research, the cause of the main complaint is dysphagia, a formation in the posterior upper mediastinum up to 5 cm, compressing the esophagus. With transoesophageal aspiration biopsy (EUS-TYPE). The cytological picture is similar to the thyroid epithelium with part of the oncocytic differentiation. In an immunological study, lavage for parathyroid hormone showed high expression. Scintigraphy with Tc-99m pertechnetate revealed the exact topic of the formation of the parathyroid gland in the posterior mediastinum an atypical location. Surgical treatment was performed in the amount of thoracoscopic removal of the mediastinal tumor. The radical nature of the surgical intervention was confirmed by laboratory. Serum PTH levels decreased significantly. Upon receipt of the morphological conclusion, reliable data on malignant damage to the parathyroid gland were obtained. Subsequent treatment of the patient consisted in the correction of severe hypercalcemia in the postoperative period by prescribing denosumab, which led to the stabilization of the patients condition.

The Materials Imaging and Dynamics (MID) instrument at the European X-ray Free-Electron Laser facility is described. Recent commissioning results are discussed to illustrate the potential experimental applications of MID., The Materials Imaging and Dynamics (MID) instrument at the European X-ray Free-Electron Laser (EuXFEL) facility is described. EuXFEL is the first hard X-ray free-electron laser operating in the MHz repetition range which provides novel science opportunities. The aim of MID is to enable studies of nano-structured materials, liquids, and soft- and hard-condensed matter using the bright X-ray beams generated by EuXFEL. Particular emphasis is on studies of structure and dynamics in materials by coherent scattering and imaging using hard X-rays. Commission of MID started at the end of 2018 and first experiments were performed in 2019.

Higher education (HE) plays a predominant role in the development of any society. The expansion of HE all over the country (Angola) through the creation of new public and private higher education institutions (HEIs), as well as the creation of internal and external scholarships, have been some of the policies aimed at increasing access to HE, especially the increase in women’s access to HE. Giving the growing number of HEIs throughout the country, the Government’s main concern is their quality. This article aims to assess the factors that lead students to choose a particular HEI. The question raised is whether, the factors influencing the choice of an HEI in a developed country are the same when it comes to a developing country. To obtain the data, focus group was applied, whose answers were the basis for the construction of a survey that was distributed to students As a result, 6 dimensions were obtained: Issues related to scientific activities, such as ranking of research, lectures and location; although the importance in determining the HEI does not carry the same weight in the choice of an HEI by these students. Key words: Higher education (HE), determining factors in the choice of higher education institutions (HEI), Angola.

The present research featured the implementation of lean manufacturing based on project management technology. The research objective was to substantiate the possibility of using tools and methods of lean production at industrial enterprises. The study involved such scientific methods as participant and non-participant observation, statistical methods, process modeling, and survey. At industrial enterprises, lean production methods should be implemented as a project activity, i.e. in different business units and at different levels. To achieve total inclusiveness, managers should be trained in the basics of project, and all other employees – in the basics of lean production. Even separate projects of lean production can increase efficiency and labor productivity. However, the use of certain tools often becomes an end in itself, and not a way to solve the actual problems. Employees involved in lean manufacturing projects often lack awareness and motivation. Insufficient experience in independent project slows down the implementation of lean production projects. Nevertheless, the authors proved that lean production projects can be effective if implemented properly. They also identified some problems specific to industrial enterprises and outlined activities that can improve operational efficiency.

Study Design: Retrospective cohort. Objectives: We aimed to compare a large cohort of patients with vertebral compression fractures (VCF) treated in 2 centers using different protocols (conservative vs BKP) and compare mortality rates on a long-term follow-up. Methods: Retrospective cohort held in 2 medical centers (W and AH). All patients admitted with VCF from November 2008 to January 2015 were enrolled in the study. Exclusion criteria were patients admitted with non-osteoporotic pathological fractures (such as metastatic or MM). Results: Our study included 208 patients treated for VCF, 127 were treated with BKP (88 females, 69.3%) and 81 were treated conservatively (59 females, 72.8%). Patients from Centre W were older and frailer compared to the patients from AH center (Average age 75.12 ± 11.16 vs 69.13 ± 9.61 years and Frailty score of 0.16 ± 0.1 vs 0.12 ± 0.1 respectively, T-test, p < 0.01 for both). Hazard ratios (HR) for age, female gender and frailty were significant for increased mortality, frailty had the highest HR of 182.42 (CI 29.05-1145.33, p < 0.01). Multivariate Cox model was fitted and after accounting for Gender, Age and Frailty, no significant difference was found between the 2 medical centers mortality rates (p = 0.59), thus no difference in mortality rates between BKP and conservative treatment in our study. Conclusion: long-term follow-up following BKP treatment for VCF did not show a reduced mortality rate compared to conservative treatment after accounting for frailty, age and gender. Frailty was the most important factor in predicting mortality. Further RCTs are needed to compare the quality of life differences between the 2 treatment strategies.

Introduction. Penile agenesis (aphallia) is an extremely rare congenital disorder. At present, about 100 cases of the anomaly have been described around the world. The incidence of this congenital anomaly is estimated to be one case per 2030 million births. One of the most commonly used reconstructive procedures today is the technique proposed by Roberto De Castro in 2007. In this article, we present a clinical case of aphallia in a boy who underwent phalloplasty. Materials and methods. A newborn boy presented with aphallia, combined with abnormal development of both kidneys. At birth, the child had difficult urination through the fistula at the edge of the anus. The meatotomy and urethral dilation were performed on the fifth day of the infant`s life. On day 28 of the child`s life, surgical intervention was performed to remove the left non-functioning kidney and a right cutaneous ureterostomy because of the recurrence of febrile urinary tract infection. At 13 months, the tissue expander was installed above the pubic bone. At 16 months, the child underwent the De Castro phalloplasty technique while in the supine position. Results. The child was examined 3, 6, and 12 months after the surgical treatment. Phalloplasty has had good outcomes as evaluated by parents and surgeons. At present, the boy is under the supervision of urologists, who plan to perform further surgical treatment of the urinary system. Conclusion. Phalloplasty, in the case presented, had a good cosmetic result. In our opinion, it proved to be the correct initial stage of treatment for aphallia, an extremely rare genital malformation.

Ring artifacts are typical defects of computed tomography (CT) that degrade the quality of a 3D reconstructed image. Existing techniques for a ring reduction have various shortcomings and limitations, in particular, a lot of them are unable to process arbitrary fragments of the image and blur artifact-free regions. We propose an algorithm for ring artifacts segmentation and reduction by deep convolutional neural networks that correct 3D fragments of the CT image by inpainting. We compare 2D and 3D architectures of networks. For the creation of a dataset with a big number of ring artifacts, we propose a procedure that is able to transfer an artifact from one image to an arbitrary place of another image. The appearance of the transferred artifact changes. For ring artifact segmentation and correction in images of sandstones and sand, the proposed networks demonstrate good visual results and outperform existing methods. The proposed technique concentrates on the Digital Rock workflow, but the networks can be adjusted for the processing of other CT images as well.

The active and healthy ageing paradigm is gaining momentum as technology is turning the futuristic scenarios envisioning smart homes into reality. An ecosystem of services and devices devoted to risk prevention, prediction and early intervention will support older people in extending the time they live independently. Despite the similarities found between the field of Active and Healthy Ageing and the Internet of Things, there are two main aspects that justify a dissociated analysis. First, most of the targeted users can be somehow considered vulnerable, either because of their lack of technological literacy or because they may even suffer some kind of cognitive impairments (although this might be in a very early stage). Second, such ecosystems are thought to be deployed in one of the most private spheres of a human being, as it is the home. For this reason, special protection should be granted to the devices and services deployed in this domain. However, this contrast with the current state of the cybersecurity for Active and Healthy Ageing. There are no specific studies, standards or guidelines available to assist manufacturers and developers in their work. This does not apply to ethical or general security concerns that have been adequately addressed. In this sense, it is necessary to complement existing ethical and data privacy and security guidelines, with other aspects related to the security of IT systems for this particular application field. This paper aims to fill this gap by presenting a general analysis of the main issues that require special attention from a cybersecurity perspective.

This paper suggests a probabilistic graphical models’ approach for finding optimal therapy. This approach is based on creating a network of dependencies using statistics of patient treatment. We used Bayesian networks for describing diabetes mellitus treatment. 4 networks were created, one of them with expert knowledge, and the other was created using different algorithms. Treatment outcomes include a set of treatment-goal values and a combination of drugs. Networks were trained and validated by the treatment dataset. Results of validation showed that this approach was high-quality for cases that had a wide representation of using medication. Most of the predictions were equal with the expert’s opinion, therefore models could be used as part of Decision Support Systems for medical experts who work with patients suffering from T2DM (Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus).