Description Of Model Research Articles

ABOUT THE METHODOLOGY FOR ASSESSING THE DIGITAL MATURITY OF TELECOMMUNICATION COMPANIES

The article briefly describes the impact of modern global processes on the activities of companies in general and telecommunications companies in particular. A brief systematic description of contemporary models and methods for assessing the digital maturity of enterprises and a detailed description of the methodology for assessing the loyalty and trust of consumers of telecommunications services is provided. The author's model for evaluating the digital maturity of telecommunications companies, obtained by expanding the European Customer Satisfaction Index (ECSI) model, is presented. The methodology for conducting elite interviews, questioning a large number of respondents, and the features of processing such data are described. The topics of interviewing senior managers of telecommunications companies in Israel on the issues of assessing digital maturity are presented. Questions from a survey of telecommunications company users about loyalty, consumer trust, and digitalisation priorities are also given.

MARIN rudder mathematical model

This paper presents the mathematical model used in MARIN’s time domain software to describe the hydrodynamic loads excited by a rudder. The paper provides a detailed description of the mathematical model and its theory, along with highlighting the novel features that have been added to extend the model to four quadrants operations. Furthermore, the paper compares the mathematical model with experiments, showcasing the model’s capabilities and shortcomings. For this comparison, a spade rudder behind the KRISO Container Ship with and without a propeller upstream has been used as a case study to illustrate how the model performs in practice.

Infrared structures of scattering on self-dual radiative backgrounds

The scattering of gluons and gravitons in trivial backgrounds is endowed with many surprising infrared features which have interesting conformal interpretations on the two-dimensional celestial sphere. However, the fate of these structures in more general asymptotically flat backgrounds is far from clear. In this paper, we consider holomorphic infrared structures in the presence of non-perturbative, self-dual background gauge and gravitational fields which are determined by freely specified radiative data. We make use of explicit formulae for tree-level gluon and graviton scattering in these self-dual radiative backgrounds, as well as chiral twistor sigma model descriptions of the classical dynamics. Remarkably, we find that the leading holomorphic part of tree-level collinear splitting functions — or celestial OPEs — and infinite-dimensional chiral soft algebras are undeformed by the background. We also compute all-order holomorphic celestial OPEs in the MHV sectors of gauge theory and gravity.

A ciascuna disciplina il suo risultato. Classi digitali vs. classi a didattica tradizionale: un confronto negli esiti degli apprendimenti

In recent years, Italy has embarked on a transformative journey to embrace technology in education. This article focuses on the adoption of digital technologies, with particular attention to the digital classroom initiative. The digital classroom experience aims to utilize digital tools and resources to facilitate an engaging and innovative mode of learning for students. This contribution examines the effects of student participation in digital classrooms on learning outcomes, comparing them with traditional classrooms within the three-year curriculum of a lower secondary school. Through an evaluative approach based on representative data from a sample of over 200 students, we analyze the impact of digital classrooms on INVALSI test results. The analyses encompass descriptive models and linear regression models applied to the results of tests in Italian, Mathematics, English Reading, and English Listening. The models introduce control variables related to the socio-economic and cultural status of the students’ families of origin, as well as their prior performance in INVALSI tests (grades II and V), for students continuing in the same institution through the primary cycle. The results indicate the need for distinct considerations depending on the discipline under analysis: for Mathematics, belonging to a traditionally taught class seems to yield better results. In the case of Italian, English Reading, and English Listening, the effect is neutral. Socio-economic and cultural status appears to have less influence on English-related disciplines, and the trend, though not statistically significant, demonstrates partially positive effects in digital classroom participation, particularly for students with cognitive vulnerabilities. The outcomes underscore the necessity of discipline-specific differentiation and further assessment of outputs to delve into the specifics of innovative didactics implemented in digital classrooms.

The Examination of Game Skills of Children Aged 5-6 Years Participating in Movement Education

This study examines the game skills of children aged 5-6 years participating in movement education programs. Given the crucial role of physical and cognitive skill development in early childhood, the study aims to explore how structured physical activities influence children’s motor skills, cognitive abilities, and social interactions. A descriptive survey model was employed involving 144 parents of children participating in movement education. The Game Skills Scale (GSS) was utilized to measure children’s game skills, and data were analyzed using SPSS 25, with t-tests for pairwise comparisons and Pearson’s correlation coefficient applied to determine relationships between variables, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. The results indicate that the game skills of children participating in movement education are notably high, with no significant differences based on gender or age. Furthermore, the duration of participation in movement education did not significantly impact the children’s game skills. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating structured physical activity programs in early childhood education to promote comprehensive development. The study contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the multifaceted benefits of movement education and providing insights for optimizing early childhood physical activity interventions.

Когнитивное моделирование процессов адаптивного обучения

An approach to modeling adaptive learning processes using signed and weighted directed graphs (digraphs) is exam-ined. The vertices of the digraphs represent the characteristics of educational activities. The orientation, signs, and weights of the digraph arcs define the mutual influence of these characteristics. The dynamics of adaptive learning are modeled within digraphs using a specific impulse process algorithm. An external disturbance is introduced into a partic-ular vertex of the digraph, and the propagation of this impulse is analyzed, enabling the prediction of values at other vertices of the digraph. The problem of optimizing the weights of digraph arcs is formulated, and an algorithm for solv-ing it is proposed to achieve stability in the impulse process. Computational experiments on a digraph revealed that the objective function for optimizing the arcs of a weighted digraph is multiextremal. The occurrence of a local minimum is determined by the initial values of the vector of design variables (weights of digraph arcs) and constraints on these var-iables. Consequently, the qualifications of the developer of the adaptive learning model who assigns these values are crucial. Cognitive models of adaptive learning can be classified as prescriptive and descriptive. Prescriptive models out-line what the adaptive learning process should be, while descriptive models depict existing adaptive learning processes and can be utilized to study their effectiveness. The developed methodology for cognitive modeling of adaptive learn-ing processes allows for the prediction of learning outcomes and can be employed in the research, design, and imple-mentation of adaptation mechanisms and intelligent control in e-learning systems, as well as in the didactic training of teachers in the field of e-learning.

Activities of the Emergency Service of Boy-Scouts and Girl-Scouts of the Małopolska District in the Scope of Assistance for War Refugees from Ukraine in the Light of Messages From the Scout Headquarters and Scouts Reports

ObjectivesThe main purpose of the article is to show examples of help from the Polish authorities and society for Ukrainian war refugees by using the example of the activity of the Emergency Service of Boy-Scouts and Girl-Scouts (PHiH) of the Polish Scouting Association (ZHR) after the Russian aggression against Ukraine, undertaken on February 24, 2022.MethodsThe source basis for the study is documents regarding the activities of the Emergency Service of Boy-Scouts and Girl-Scouts and reports on the service on the Polish-Ukrainian border, available on the ZHR websites, the Facebook social network, and messages from the PHiH Staff of the Małopolska District of the ZHR. Due to the current development of events, the author has adopted a descriptive model focused on describing the current situation in Ukraine.ResultsThe author described the activities of the PHiH in the Małopolska District of the ZHR, showing various aspects of the scout service for war refugees. In the face of war refugees in need of help, Polish scout organisations, including Małopolska District of the ZHR joined the auxiliary service in Krakow and on the border with Ukraine, the activities of the ZHR result from the Law and the Scout Promise.ConclusionsThe result of the article is a description of the service of PHiH scouts and scouts for Ukrainian war refugees and its examples. It is an important contribution to attempts to describe the Russian-Ukrainian war in its various aspects, and its content fits into its context.

Challenges in geochemical modelling of metal(loid) solubility and binding mechanisms along a soil profile at a multi-contaminated site

Recognising the need for robust models in predicting groundwater contamination risks from metal(loid)s in contaminated topsoil, this study focuses on the geochemical behaviour of As, Cd, Cu, Pb, Sb and Zn in one of Sweden's most heavily contaminated areas. Samples were collected from the waste zone and underlying subsoil down to 5 m and batch experiments were carried out to assess pH-dependent solubility. The results indicate that Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn are efficiently immobilized in the waste zone, while As(V) and Sb(V) are more easily leached. With the exception of Pb and Cu at high pH, the mobilized metals appear to be predominantly in a truly dissolved state, as confirmed by ultrafiltration at 10 kDa.Speciation modelling using Visual MINTEQ did not suggest a significant role of precipitates such as Zn or Pb arsenates and phosphates, although their involvement could not be ruled out. To better understand sorption/desorption patterns, a multi-surface geochemical model was established, drawing on the Stockholm Humic and CD-MUSIC models for organic matter and Fe/Al (hydr)oxide sorption. However, when default parameters were used, the model consistently overestimated the solubility of Cd, Cu, Pb and Zn in both the waste zone and the uncontaminated subsoil. In contrast, As(V) solubility was generally underestimated, also when the reactive surface area of the Fe- and Al (hydr)oxides was decreased in the model. The model's performance was better for Sb(V), though not without imperfections. When the parameters for organic matter were adjusted such that 100% of the solid-phase organic matter was active with respect to ion binding, but only 25% of the dissolved organic matter, the model description improved considerably for Pb and Cu in the upper soil layers. The model revealed distinct differences in the adsorption behaviour of the metal cations, with Pb being sorbed mostly to Fe/Al (hydroxides), whereas a considerable part of Cu was sorbed to organic matter, particularly in the waste zone.Possibly, the dissolution of easily weatherable metal-containing mineral phases may have contributed to the poor model performance for Cd, Zn and for Cu in the deeper soil layers, although other factors, such as a contribution of hydrous SiO2 or Mn oxides to metal binding, could not be ruled out. Metal sorption to carbonate phases may also have been a contributing factor in the waste zone. Lastly, the reactivity of Fe- and Al (hydr)oxides may have been overestimated by oxalate extraction when default parameters for high-surface-area ferrihydrite were applied.These findings provide valuable insights for environmental management and underscore the need for a more detailed characterization of metal(loid) sorption in contaminated soils, as well as the development of improved modelling strategies to enhance solubility predictions.

Assessing groundwater quality and its association with child undernutrition in India

Background and objectivesGroundwater contamination poses a significant health challenge in India, particularly impacting children. Despite its importance, limited research has explored the nexus between groundwater quality and child nutrition outcomes. This study addresses this gap, examining the association between groundwater quality and child undernutrition, offering pertinent insights for policymakers. Data and methodsThe study uses data from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) and the Central Groundwater Board (CGWB) to analyze the association between groundwater quality and child nutritional status. The groundwater quality data were collected by nationwide monitoring stations programmed by CGWB, and the child undernutrition data were obtained from the NFHS-5, 2019–21. The analysis included descriptive and logistic regression model. The study also considers various demographic and socio-economic factors as potential moderators of the relationship between groundwater quality and child undernutrition. FindingsSignificant variation in groundwater quality was observed across India, with numerous regions displaying poor performance. Approximately 26.53 % of geographical areas were deemed unfit for consuming groundwater. Environmental factors such as high temperatures, low precipitation, and arid, alluvial, laterite-type soils are linked to poorer groundwater quality. Unfit-for-consumption groundwater quality increased the odds of undernutrition, revealing a 35 %, 38 %, and 11 % higher likelihood of stunting, underweight, and wasting in children, with higher pH, Magnesium, Sulphate, Nitrate, Total Dissolved Solids, and Arsenic, levels associated with increased odds of stunting, underweight, and wasting. Higher temperatures (>25 °C), high elevations (>1000 m), and proximity to cultivated or industrial areas all contribute to heightened risks of child undernutrition. Children consuming groundwater, lacking access to improved toilets, or living in rural areas are more likely to be undernourished, while females, higher-income households, and those consuming dairy, vegetables, and fruits daily exhibit lower odds of undernutrition. Policy implicationsPolicy implications highlight the urgent need for investment in piped water supply systems. Additionally, focused efforts are required to monitor and improve groundwater quality in regions with poor water quality. Policies should emphasize safe sanitation practices and enhance public awareness about the critical role of safe drinking water in improving child health.

Chaotic neural network algorithm with competitive learning integrated with partial Least Square models for the prediction of the toxicity of fragrances in sanitizers and disinfectants

This study addresses the need for accurate structural data regarding the toxicity of fragrances in sanitizers and disinfectants. We compare the predictive and descriptive (model stability) potential of multiple linear regression (MLR) and partial least squares (PLS) models optimized through variable selection (VS). A novel hybrid chaotic neural network algorithm with competitive learning (CCLNNA)–PLS modeling strategy can offer specific optimization with satisfactory results, even for a limited dataset. While also exploring the preliminary comparative analysis, the goal is to introduce an adapted novel CCLNNA optimization strategy for VS, inspired by neural networks, along with exploring the influence of the percentage of significant descriptors in the optimization function to enhance the final model's capabilities.We analyzed an available dataset of 24 molecules, incorporating ADMET and PaDEL descriptors as predictor variables, to explore the relationship between the response/target variable (pLC50) and the meticulously optimized set of descriptors. The suitability of the selected PLS models (cross- and external-validated accuracy combined with percentage of significant descriptors at a level equal to or >80 %) underscores the importance of expanding the dataset to amplify the validation protocols, thus enhancing future model reliability and environmental impact.

Combining descriptive and predictive modeling to systematically design depth filtration-based harvest processes for biologics.

Advances in upstream production of biologics-particularly intensified fed-batch processes beyond 10% cell solids-have severely strained harvest operations, especially depth filtration. Bioreactors containing high amounts of cell debris (more than 40% particles <10 µm in diameter) are increasingly common and drive the need for more robust depth filtration processes, while accelerated timelines emphasize the need for predictive tools to accelerate development. Both needs are constrained by the current limited mechanistic understanding of the harvest filter-feedstream system. Historically, process development relied on screening scale-down depth filter devices and conditions to define throughput before fouling, indicated by increasing differential pressure and/or particle breakthrough (measured via turbidity). This approach is straightforward, but resource-intensive, and its results are inherently limited by the variability of the feedstream. Semi-empirical models have been developed from first principles to describe various mechanisms of filter fouling, that is, pore constriction, pore blocking, and/or surface deposit. Fitting these models to experimental data can assist in identifying the dominant fouling mechanism. Still, this approach sees limited application to guide process development, as it is descriptive, not predictive. To address this gap, we developed a hybrid modeling approach. Leveraging historical bench scale filtration process data, we built a partial least squares regression model to predict particle breakthrough from filter and feedstream attributes, and leveraged the model to demonstrate prediction of filter performance a priori. The fouling models are used to interpret and provide physical meaning to these computational models. This hybrid approach-combining the mechanistic insights of fouling models and the predictive capability of computational models-was used to establish a robust platform strategy for depth filtration of Chinese hamster ovary cell cultures. As new data continues to teach the computational models, in silico tools will become an essential part of harvest process development by enabling prospective experimental design, reducing total experimental load, and accelerating development under strict timelines.

Simplifying Land Cover-Geoprocessing-Model Migration with a PAMC-LC Containerization Strategy in the Open Web Environment

Land cover and its changes over time are significant for better understanding the Earth’s fundamental characteristics and processes, such as global climate change, hydrology, and the carbon cycle. A number of land cover-geoprocessing models have been proposed for land cover-data production with different spatial and temporal resolutions. With the massive growth in land cover data and the increasing demand for efficient model utilization, developing efficient and convenient land cover-geoprocessing models has become a formidable challenge. Although some model-migration methods have been proposed for handling the massive data, the intricacy of land cover-data and -heterogeneity models frequently prevent current strategies from directly meeting demand. In this paper, we propose the PAMC-LC-containerization approach to overcome the difficulties associated with moving existing land cover models in the open web environment. Based on the idea of model migration, we design a standardized model description and hierarchical encapsulation strategy for land cover models, and develop migration and deployment methods. Furthermore, we assess the viability and efficacy of the proposed approach by using coupled workflows for model migration and the introduction of visualization on the Mts-WH dataset and the Google dataset. The experimental results show that the PAMC-LC approach can simplify and streamline the model migration process, with important ramifications for increasing productivity, reusing models, and lowering additional data-transmission costs.

Information Search Within a Web Page: Modeling the Full Sequence of Eye Movement Decisions, Subjective Value Updating, and First Clicks

Online retail settings often present shoppers with large, complex choice sets where they need to quickly and dynamically weigh the benefits and costs of search within each web page. We build a model of information search within a web page using eye-tracking data collected during two incentive-compatible online shopping experiments, in which participants browsed the websites of two different clothing retailers (Experiments 1 and 2), as well as previously reported data from a laboratory experiment involving choices among snack food assortments (Experiment 3). Our model incorporates features that build upon recent advances in descriptive and normative models of information sampling and search in psychology and economics. First, our model captures how people decide where to look by treating eye fixations on clickable options as a series of “split-second” decisions that depend on estimates of option attractiveness and navigation effort. Second, our model assumes that the value of each option is learned via Bayesian updating. Third, the choice to end search on the web page depends on a dynamic decision threshold. Our model outperforms benchmarks that assume random search, instant learning, fixed thresholds, nonheterogeneous thresholds, and stochastic accumulator stopping rules. Explicitly modeling the sequence of eye fixation decisions results in accurate counterfactual simulations of the effects of hypothetical product orderings on search duration and quality as verified using experimental manipulation, and it can be applied flexibly to a wide range of web-page layouts. Systematic differences across experiments highlight the importance of accounting for product familiarity, choice-set size, and the role of category outside options. This paper was accepted by Ilia Tsetlin, behavioral economics and decision analysis. Funding: This work was supported by the Jay H. Baker Retailing Center and the Wharton Behavioral Lab at the University of Pennsylvania. Supplemental Material: The online appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.02983 .

Developing Arabic Grammar Materials Based on Contextual Learning at Islamic Boarding School in Indonesia

This study aims to describe the development of contextual-based supplementary Nahwu teaching materials in five pesantren in Central Kalimantan using the Matan al-Ajrumiyyah text. The research uses a descriptive qualitative and quantitative EDDIE model approach. The subjects are seven ustadz. Data were collected through observation, interviews, documentation, and questionnaires. Experts validated the teaching materials. Qualitative data were analyzed using Miles and Huberman's method, involving data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing. Quantitative data from questionnaires were analyzed using the mean formula. The analysis revealed a need to shift from traditional to contextual-based learning, leading to the development of supplementary Nahwu teaching materials. The design phase identified the learning experiences and specific skills needed by the students. The designed materials included introductions (apperception), examples, explanations, exercises, conclusions, and reflections. The development phase involved creating supplementary materials to achieve the learning objectives, along with determining strategies, methods, and media. Expert validation showed an average validity score of 3.71, with a validity rate of 92.75%, categorizing it as very valid and usable without revision. Theoretical implications suggest that contextual-based Nahwu learning helps learners understand Nahwu and apply Arabic communication. Educational institutions teaching Nahwu can implement contextual-based learning to facilitate students' application of Nahwu.

دور أدوات الذكاء الصناعي في تعزيز أساليب إدارة الموارد البشرية: دراسة تطبيقية لعينة من الجامعات الأهلية - جامعة الإمام الصادق وجامعة القلم

We specialize in searching for artificial intelligence tools combined in their three dimensions (Workday, ADP Workforce, WFM) in the field of administrative cooperation for human resources management (distinctive electronic communication method, talent management method, diverse skills development method) in Artica private universities, and the goal of the appropriate situation has been identified. The hypothetical, which was placed within scientific learning for my learning, then formulating research hypotheses and testing them using compatible statistical methods and using the statistical program (SPSS). In general, descriptive models were adopted to explain the specialized and analytical frameworks for the research movements, so that the study population consisted of employees at the two universities at the three administrative levels, and the sample size was (61) individuals from managers and directors of departments, divisions, and the three administrative units. The research reached several results, the most important of which was the existence of a significant correlation between smart tools and human resources management methods and their dimensions in the technical study community. Finally, I am completely confident in providing the basis for artificial intelligence tools for new operations through procedures for initiating cooperative operations and cooperating with optimal resources in order to advance and maintain survival and continuity, as well as methods of human resources management.

Mathematical model of single-channel search for signals of mobile radio communications with one degree of detection in the frequency-time domain.

In the context of a full-scale invasion and military operations for Ukraine's independence, the issues of radio monitoring of radio emission sources of telecommunication networks and systems are gaining special attention and require fundamentally new approaches to the level of informatization, technical implementation and increase of their efficiency. Today, the technical means of radio interception, monitoring and direction finding in the networks of mobile radio communication systems are realized in the form of software and hardware complexes, the most important performance indicators of which are considered to be speed, accuracy of detection and probability of recognition of mobile radio communication means with their information content. At the same time, these issues still remain problematic and require further development of methods and techniques for searching and detecting signals of mobile radio communications in both frequency and time telecommunication channels and their information processing. To solve this issue, the authors propose a mathematical model for searching for mobile radio signals in the frequency-time domain with one degree of detection. The description of the mathematical model for determining the spectral components of signals in the frequency and time domains is carried out using the basic provisions of the theory of directed probability graphs, geometric probabilities with its well-known problem of meeting in a given time interval, and the theoretical foundations of statistical information processing. The analysis of the proposed model shows that the probability of successful completion of the search for a signal with one degree of detection in the frequency-time domain for a given time depends on the value of the signal duration, the number of analyzed frequency channels, the time of signal analysis in each channel, and the probabilities of errors of the first and second kinds The article presents the results of calculations of the value of the probability of successful completion of the signal search as a function of the search time at different values of the analysis time. It is shown that the application of the mathematical model of single-channel search for signals of mobile radio communication means with one degree of detection in the frequency-time domain in practice will make it possible to determine the quality of the radio monitoring process and increase the efficiency of evaluating the spectral components of radio signals in terms of speed, detection accuracy and probability of recognition of mobile radio communication means with further determination of their information content.

Thermodynamics of a minimal interacting heat engine: Comparison between engine designs.

Collective effects stemming from many interacting units have attracted remarkable recent interest, not only for their presence in several systems in nature but also for the possibility of being used for the construction of efficient engine setups. Notwithstanding, little is known about the influence of the engine design, and most studies are restricted to the simplest cases (e.g., simultaneous contact with two thermal baths), not necessarily constituting a realistic setup implementation. In order to investigate the design and its influence on the performance, we introduce the collisional also referred as sequential description for a minimal model for interacting heat engines, composed of two coupled nanomachines placed in contact with a distinct thermal reservoir and subjected to a nonequilibrium work source at each stage. Thermodynamic quantities are exactly obtained irrespective of the model details. Distinct kinds of work sources are investigated and the influence of the interaction, temperature, period, and time asymmetry has been undertaken. Results show that a careful design of interaction provides superior performance than the interactionless case, including optimal power outputs and efficiencies at maximum power greater than known bounds or even the system presenting efficiencies close to the ideal (Carnot) limit. As a complementary analysis, we also show that the case of the system simultaneously placed in contact with two thermal reservoirs constitutes a particular case of our framework.

Radiomic score for lung nodules as a prognostic biomarker in locally advanced rectal cancer patients: A bi-institutional study.

Undetermined lung nodules are common in locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) and lack precise risk stratification. This study aimed to develop a radiomic-based score (Rad-score) to distinguish metastasis and predict overall survival (OS) in patients with LARC and lung nodules. Retrospective data from two institutions (July 10, 2006-September 24, 2015) was used to develop and validate the Rad-score for distinguishing lung nodule malignancy. The prognostic value of the Rad-score was investigated in LARC cohorts, leading to the construction and validation of a clinical and radiomic score (Cli-Rad-score) that incorporates both clinical and radiomic information for the purpose of improving personalized clinical prognosis prediction. Descriptive statistics, survival analysis, and model comparison were performed to assess the results. The Rad-score demonstrated great performance in distinguishing malignancy, with C-index values of 0.793 [95% CI: 0.729-0.856] in the training set and 0.730 [95% CI: 0.666-0.874] in the validation set. In independent LARC cohorts, Rad-score validation achieved C-index values of 0.794 [95% CI: 0.737-0.851] and 0.747 [95% CI: 0.615-0.879]. Regarding prognostic prediction, Rad-score effectively stratified patients. Cli-Rad-score outperformed the clinicopathological information alone in risk stratification, as evidenced by significantly higher C-index values (0.735 vs. 0.695 in the internal set and 0.618 vs. 0.595 in the external set). CT-based radiomics could serve as a reliable and powerful tool for lung nodule malignancy distinction and prognostic prediction in LARC patients. Rad-score predicts prognosis independently. Incorporation of Cli-Rad-score significantly enhances the persionalized clinical prognostic capacity in LARC patients with lung nodules.

Epidemiological and clinical trends of visceral leishmaniasis in Portugal: retrospective analysis of cases diagnosed in public hospitals between 2010 and 2020

BackgroundLeishmania infantum is endemic in the Mediterranean region, presenting mostly as visceral leishmaniasis (VL). In Portugal, reporting of VL cases to public health authorities is mandatory, but significant underreporting is likely. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological and clinical aspects of the VL cases diagnosed in hospitals of the Portuguese National Health Service (NHS), between 2010 and 2020.MethodsCollaboration was requested to every hospital of the Portuguese NHS in Mainland Portugal. Cases were screened through a search of diagnostic discharge codes or, if not available, by a search of positive laboratory results for Leishmania infection. Sociodemographic and clinical data was retrieved from medical records. Simultaneously, the National Health authority was contacted to request access to data of notified cases of VL between 2010 and 2020. Descriptive, hypothesis testing and multiple binary logistic regression models were performed.ResultsA total of 221 VL cases were identified. A significant increase in estimated national incidence was seen in the years after 2016 (P = 0.030). VL was predominantly diagnosed in people living with HIV (PLWH) and in children (representing around 60% of the new cases), but the outcome was generally poorer in non-HIV patients with associated immunosuppression, with significantly lower rates of clinical improvement at 7 (P = 0.003) and 30 days (P = 0.008) after treatment. Atypical presentations, with gastrointestinal and/or respiratory involvement, were seen in 8.5% of VL cases. Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis was diagnosed in 40.0% of children under 5 years of age. Only 49.7% of incident VL cases were reported. Simultaneous involvement of the skin was confirmed in 5.9% of patients.ConclusionsVL presents a continuing threat in Portugal, especially to PLWH and children, and an increasing threat to other immunosuppressed groups. Recent increases in incidence should be closely monitored to allow prompt interventions. Programs to control the disease should focus on providing tools for earlier diagnosis and on reducing underreporting and promoting an integrated surveillance of human and animal disease. These data should be combined with asymptomatic infection and vector information, following a One Health approach.Graphical

On Parameterization of Dissipative Processes in Turbulent Transport Models for Description of Thermohydrodynamics and Biogeochemistry of Stratified Inland Water Bodies

On Parameterization of Dissipative Processes in Turbulent Transport Models for Description of Thermohydrodynamics and Biogeochemistry of Stratified Inland Water Bodies