High Level Of Correlation Research Articles

Method for Systematic Assessment of Mobile Network Coverage for Logistic Applications on the German Highway

Smart logistics, combining the capabilities of logistics with methods and techniques of the Internet of Things, Information and Communication Technologies, and the highest levels of automation are key to addressing the challenges of the 21st century and minimizing emissions while maximizing logistic performance. High-performance cellular networks are a prerequisite to fully using and leveraging their possibilities. These communication networks were developed based on the need for voice communication and streaming services. While the upcoming requirements are included in the latest versions of cellular networks, the existing infrastructure requires significant improvements and will have to adapt significantly. This study evaluates the performance of the current state of implementation of cellular networks on the German highway experimentally and analytically. The known indicators RSRP, RSSI, and RSRQ are analyzed spatially, over time, and for different driving conditions. The results indicate a high level of spatial correlation and a sufficient level of confidence, which are needed to ensure consistency and repeatability of these measurements. The procedure and the results can be used to assess the suitability of cellular networks for smart logistics applications and continuously monitor their improvement. The results indicate the status of the cellular network on the German highway which is worse compared to the network operator’s self-assessment.

METHODS AND PRACTICAL IMPLEMENTATION OF APPLICATION OF REMOTE SENSING FOR MONITORING OF EUTROPHICATION OF RESERVOIR (ON THE EXAMPLE OF TURKISH LAKE)

The article considers theoretical, methodological and practical aspects of the study of eutrophication of water bodies using remote sensing. Factors influencing eutrophication of reservoirs, possibilities of their geoecological monitoring with the use of remote sensing are analyzed. Over a long period of time, slowly and evolutionarily, lakes naturally change their state from oligotrophic to eutrophic and even dystrophic. However, in the XX century accelerated anthropogenic eutrophication of many lakes, other bodies of water and watercourses around the world. The main reason for this was the increased use of nitrogen fertilizers and the discharge of municipal wastewater containing phosphates from household synthetic detergents. To estimate the intensity of eutrophication processes in Turske Lake, we used remote sensing data, in particular, the vegetation index NDVI. The method of estimating the intensity of eutrophication processes in Turske Lake on the basis of remote sensing is as follows: using the EO-browser resource sentinel-hub.com was selected satellite images Landsat-8-9 L2 for the period from 1.05 to 1.10.2017-2021. The images were then analyzed to establish relationships and relationships between NDVI index values, temperature, NDVI index dynamics during the warm season, year, 5-year period, and the influence of other factors on the eutrophication process. The following regularity of intra-annual dynamics of the NDVI index has been established: in May eutrophication is practically absent, in June NDVI indicators increase, some parts of the lake surface with positive NDVI values ​​appear. In July, NDVI values ​​continue to rise. NDVI peaks in August or early September. In some years, abnormally high NDVI values ​​are recorded at this time. Starting from the second half of September, the values ​​of the index decrease, the reservoir is released from algae, they die, settle to the bottom and form an organic component of sapropel. Although in some years, even in late September, there are still some islands of high eutrophication of the lake, especially near the northern and eastern shores. Analysis of the long-term dynamics (2017-21) of eutrophication of the lake did not reveal a clear tendency to increase over time. NDVI indicators were the lowest in 2019, and the maximum values ​​were acquired in 2017 and 2021. The density of the relationship between weighted temperature values ​​and NDVI was analyzed. The correlation coefficient is 0.88. This is a fairly high level of correlation. In addition to temperature, the intensity of eutrophication of the lake is also influenced by nitrogen-containing and phosphorus-containing compounds that enter the reservoir with runoff from agricultural lands, farms and residential areas. Global climate change is also having a negative impact. A set of measures to reduce eutrophication and improve the hydroelectric condition of Turske Lake is proposed, which includes the following measures: reducing the supply of nutrients to the reservoir, compliance with the use of water protection zones, mechanical removal of plants from the lake and reclamation canals, environmental awareness and awareness the state of the reclamation network, compliance with regulations for its use, adaptation to global climate change.
 Key words: lake, eutrophication of the lake, research of eutrophication of reservoirs using methods of remote sensing, measures to reduce eutrophication and improve the current hydroecological condition of the Turske Lake.

Comparison of Intra- and Inter-Observer Consistency (Intra-Expert Reliability, Inter-Expert Reliability) in Assessing the Extent of COVID-19 Pneumonia Lesions on Chest Computed Tomography

Background. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has set new challenges for the radiological community: early diagnosis of interstitial pneumonia, estimation of its severity, and dynamics. Computed tomography has become the method of choice for assessing lung tissue in COVID-19 patients, which is due to the low sensitivity of radiography in detecting a decrease in airiness by the ground glass opacity type. The criteria for assessing visual signs of lung tissue damage often have a degree of subjectivity, and the conclusion based on them affects the patients management tactics. Aims to determine the inter- and intra-expert consistency in the assessment of the percentage of lesions and the CT stage of COVID-19 pneumonia among experts-radiologists with different experience, to analyze the level of precision depending on the prevalence of the lesion and other factors. Materials and methods. The research analyzed CT scans of 221 patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 by PCR. Patients with additional lung pathology and some patients with lesions up to 50% were excluded to create a uniform degree sample of 100 patients. Four expert radiologists determined the percentage of lung damage and the CT stages. The results of the expert assessment are analyzed using the methods of classical descriptive statistics and the analysis of intra-and inter-expert consistency. Results. The correlation of the level of lung damage, when evaluating intra-expert convergence (after 6 months), as a percentage between the first and second reading was R = 0.86 (p 0.05) for expert 1 (high level of training), R = 0.84 (p 0.05) for expert 2 (high level of training). Within the expert agreement, Kappa (for K-degree) was 0.54 for expert 1 and 0.46 for expert 2, which corresponds to a moderate level of consistency. When assessing inter-expert convergence, the connectivity between the level of lung damage as a percentage between experts 1 and 2 (high level of training) was R = 0.87 (p 0.05), between experts 3 and 4 (low level of training) R = 0.78 (p 0.05). The measure of inter-expert agreement Kappa was 0.51 for experts 1 and 2 and 0.56 for experts 3 and 4. The average assessment of experts in the sample varied up to 4.5%, and when analyzing the differences in expert opinions, the difference varied evenly, both in the degree of increase and decrease in the volume of the lesion. Conclusions. In spite of the high level of correlation in the assessment of the percentage of lesion, the convergence of the Cap on the CT degree was moderate, not significantly differing from the degree of expert training. More often, differences in the level of damage are observed in non-classical patterns: reverse halo, curvilinear lines, etc. The difference in opinions doesnt represent a systematic error. Hereby the expert assessment of the volume of lung damage empirically has a moderate, insufficient level of reliability.

An experimental and simulated investigation into the validity of unrestricted blast wave scaling models when applied to transonic flow in complex tunnel environments

Since the inception of high explosives as an industrial tool, significant efforts have been made to understand the flow of energy from an explosive into its surroundings to maximize work produced while minimizing damaging effects. Many tools have been developed over the past century, such as the Hopkinson–Cranz (H-C) Scaling Formula, to define blast wave behavior in open air. Despite these efforts, the complexity of wave dynamics has rendered blast wave prediction difficult under confinement, where the wave interacts with reflective surfaces producing complex time-pressure waveforms. This paper implements two methods to better understand blast overpressure propagation in a confined tunnel environment and establish whether scaled tests can be performed comparatively to costly full-scale experiments. Time–pressure waveforms were predicted using both a 1:10 scaled model and three-dimensional air blast simulations conducted in Ansys Autodyn. A comparison of the reduced scale model simulation with a full-scale blast simulation resulted in self-similar overpressure waveforms when employing the H-C scaling model. Experimental overpressure waveforms showed a high level of correlation between the reduced scale model and simulations. Additionally, peak overpressure, duration, and impulse values were found to match within tolerances that are highly promising for applying this methodology in future applications. Using this validated relationship, the simulated model and reduced scale tests were used to predict an overpressure waveform in a full-scale underground mine opening to within 2.12%, 2.91%, and 7.84% for peak overpressure, time of arrival, and impulse, respectively. This paper demonstrates the effectiveness of scaled, blast models when predicting blast wave parameters in a confined environment.

Validation of the PsAID-12 Russian questionnaire in patients with psoriatic arthritis

Objective – validation of the Russian-language version of the PsAID-12 questionnaire in patients with psoriatic arthritisMaterials and methods. The study included 187 patients, mostly men (50.2%), with a reliable diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) according to the CASPAR criteria (2006), who consistently sought medical help at the V.A. Nasonova Research Institute of Rheumatology and those who signed informed consent to participate in the study. Average age was 45.6±11.7 years, duration of PsA – 113.8±76.7 months, duration of psoriasis – 241±144 months, disease activity according to DAPSA (Disease Activity in Psoriatic Arthritis) – 29.1±22.6. At the initial visit and after 12 months of therapy, all patients underwent a standard rheumatologic examination and assessment of the quality of life. The number of tender joint count (TJC 68), the number of swollen joint count (SJC 66), PGA (patient global assessments) were assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS) (0–10 cm), VAS pain (0–10 cm), BASDAI (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index), PsAID-12 (Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease-12) and EQ-5D (EuroQoL-5D). The EQ-5D was considered the “gold standard” for assessing quality of life. The reliability of the PsAID-12 questionnaire was studied on the basis of its reproducibility by test-retest analysis and internal constancy by calculating the Cronbach’s alpha for each scale. We assessed the validity, i. e., the ability of the PsAID-12 questionnaire to reliably measure its characteristics based on criterional and constructive validity. The criterion validity was calculated by assessing the relationship between PsAID-12 and “external criteria”| reflecting the activity of PsA and interchangeability with the EQ-5D questionnaire using correlation analysis. A moderate and strong bond was considered r≥0.30. Constructive validity was assessed by the method of “known groups” and factor analysis. The study of the reliability of the PsAID-12 questionnaire was carried out in 30 PsA patients. Sensitivity – in 172 patients in dynamics after 12 months of various PsA therapy regimens.Results. The study of the reliability of the PsAID-12 questionnaire included 30 patients. According to the results of the test-retest analysis, it was revealed that there were no statistically significant differences between the initial and repeated assessments on all 12 PsAID-12 scales (p>0.05). To assess the internal constancy, the Cronbach’s alpha was calculated for each of the 12 scales of the questionnaire. The value of this coefficient ranged from 0.8 to 0.9 and was quite high. Validity was assessed in 187 patients with PsA. The analysis of the criterion validity of the PsAID-12 questionnaire was studied by assessing the relationship of its scales with the scales of the EQ-5D questionnaire, where it demonstrated a close correlation (r>0.3). That testifies to the good interchangeability of this questionnaire. Also, the criterion validity was carried out by assessing the “external criteria” (TJC 68, SJC 66, DAPSA, VAS global assessments, VAS global pain, BASDAI). Where were identified direct correlations of external criteria with all scales of the questionnaire. The highest correlation coefficient (r=0.8) was found between the BASDAI index and the “Physical performance” scale. When assessing constructive validity by the “known groups” method, patients were divided into 2 groups according to disease activity: with DAPSA index ≥5 and DAPSA index ≤4. Significant differences were revealed between the group of patients with active PsA and the absence of PsA activity on all scales of the questionnaire (p<0.001). Factor analysis revealed two main factors – physical and emotional health; a high level of correlation of the scales with their factor was also shown. To assess the sensitivity of the questionnaire, its changes were analyzed depending on the achieved effect on therapy after 12 months: group I of patients in whom MDA was achieved – 50 patients; group II – 43 patients REM/LDA; group III – 79 patients with no effect on therapy. It was revealed that in groups I and II there was a statistically significant difference on all scales of questionnaires, in group III, “non-responders” to therapy, there were no statistically significant improvements in the scales “Pain” (p=0.37), “Fatigue” (p=0.15), “Skin problems” (p=0.23), “Work and/or leisure activities” (p=0.056), “Functional capacity” (p=0.44). Thus, during treatment, it was noted that the PsAID-12 questionnaire may reflect the dynamics depending on the activity of the disease during treatment, which proves its good sensitivity.Conclusion. The Russian version of the PsAID-12 has good psychometric properties and is able to reflect changes in the patient’s health status over time, along with disease activity and laboratory manifestations.

The Effect of Animation-Based Worked Examples Supported with Augmented Reality on the Academic Achievement, Attitude and Motivation of Students towards Learning Programming

This study examines the effect of using animation-based worked examples (ARAWEs) that are prepared using Augmented Reality (AR) technology instead of using traditional paper-based worked examples (TWEs) on the achievement, motivation, and attitude of high school students during their programming education. The research was designed through the “Nonequivalent Control Group Model”, one of the quasi-experimental models. The participants consisted of second year students (N=94) who were taking the “Basics of Programming” course in the Department of Information Technologies a vocational and technical Anatolian high school in Turkey. An achievement test was applied to the participants as pre-test and final test. Motivation of the students was measured by means of the “Instructional Materials Motivation Survey” developed by Kutu and Sözbilir (2011), and participant attitudes towards using AR was measured by means of the “AR Attitude Scale” developed by Küçük, Yılmaz, Baydaş and Göktaş (2014). According to the results, both the achievement and motivation levels of the students studying on ARAWEs increased significantly compared to those studying on TWEs. There was a high level of correlation between the final test scores and the attitude levels of the students studying on ARAWEs. Considering that instructional materials containing animation-based worked examples prepared using AR technology increase students' interest and motivation in the subject, their use in lessons that include teaching problem solving skills, such as mathematics, physics, and chemistry, can be implemented in future studies.

The Impact of Creative Drama on Nursing Students’ Knowledge of Nursing Processes and Case Analysis Skills

Aim: The study aims to determine the impact of creative drama on the nursing students’ knowledge of nursing processes and case analysis skills. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was carried out with 59 first-year nursing students between May 02 and June 30, 2021. The students were divided into experimental (n=30) and control groups (n=29) according to their grade point averages, with all students simultaneously receiving online theoretical information on nursing processes from the same lecturer. The case analysis study was conducted with creative drama in the experimental group, and with the conventional lecture and discussion method in the control group. The data were collected with descriptive characteristics form, The Nursing process knowledge form, Patient diagnosis form, The nursing process form, case evaluation form and feedback form. Results: The nursing process knowledge mean score and case analysis mean score (16.20 ± 2.51 and 22.73 ± 9.07, respectively) of the students in the experimental group were found to be statistically significantly higher compared to the students in the control group (15.27 ± 3.28 and 15.14 ± 9.28, respectively). A high level of positive statistical correlation was found between the nursing process knowledge mean scores and case analysis mean scores of the students (r= .986, p= .000). All students in the experimental group referred to the creative drama and case analysis process as helpful in communication (n=12), fun (n=11), useful (n=8) and memorable (n=10). Conclusion: Creative drama was observed to be effective in the nursing process knowledge and case analysis skills of first-year nursing students. Keywords: Case Analysis, Creative Drama, Nursing Process, Nursing Students.

The value of ultrasound for the preoperative assessment of carotid body tumors

ObjectivesTo evaluate the value of ultrasound (US) examination for the preoperative assessment of carotid body tumors (CBTs) and to predict surgical outcomes. MethodsA total of 15 CBT lesions in 15 patients were included in this study. CBT measurements determined using US, and included maximal diameter, volume, tumor distance to base of skull (DTBOS), and carotid wall infiltration. A correlation analysis was conducted to determine the correlation between US measurements and surgical outcomes, including estimated blood loss (EBL), cranial nerve injury, surgical time, and hospital length of stay (HLOS). ResultsEBL showed a high level of correlation with the maximal dimeter (r = 0.596, p < .05) and the volume of the tumor (r = 0.864, p < .05). Surgical time was positively correlated with tumor volume (r = 0.592, p < .05) and negatively correlated with DTBOS (r = −0.554, p < .05). There was no significant correlation (p > .05) shown between cranial nerve injury and US variables. HLOS showed the high degree of correlation with the maximal dimeter (r = 0.658, p < .05), and was also negatively correlated with DTBOS (r = −0.620, p < .00). ConclusionsUS examination allows for the visualization of features of CBTs, which is a useful and safe tool to be used to predict surgical outcomes. Further research is necessary to validate this exploration method for the preoperative assessment of CBTs.

Long-term persistence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein-specific and neutralizing antibodies in recovered COVID-19 patients.

Understanding antibody responses after natural severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection can guide the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccine schedule, especially in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to assess the dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, including anti-spike protein 1 (S1) immunoglobulin (Ig)G, anti-receptor-binding domain (RBD) total Ig, anti-S1 IgA, and neutralizing antibody against wild-type SARS-CoV-2 over time in a cohort of patients who were previously infected with the wild-type SARS-CoV-2. Between March and May 2020, 531 individuals with virologically confirmed cases of wild-type SARS-CoV-2 infection were enrolled in our immunological study. Blood samples were collected at 3-, 6-, 9-, and 12-months post symptom onset or detection of SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR (in asymptomatic individuals). The neutralizing titers against SARS-CoV-2 were detected in 95.2%, 86.7%, 85.0%, and 85.4% of recovered COVID-19 patients at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after symptom onset, respectively. The seropositivity rate of anti-S1 IgG, anti-RBD total Ig, anti-S1 IgA, and neutralizing titers remained at 68.6%, 89.6%, 77.1%, and 85.4%, respectively, at 12 months after symptom onset. We observed a high level of correlation between neutralizing and SARS-CoV-2 spike protein-specific antibody titers. The half-life of neutralizing titers was estimated at 100.7 days (95% confidence interval = 44.5–327.4 days, R2 = 0.106). These results support that the decline in serum antibody levels over time in both participants with severe disease and mild disease were depended on the symptom severity, and the individuals with high IgG antibody titers experienced a significantly longer persistence of SARS-CoV-2-specific antibody responses than those with lower titers.

Changes in expression of miRNAs from the DLK1-DIO3 locus are characteristic of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis regardless of the disease activity

The role of miRNAs – small, regulatory, noncoding RNAs – in the multiple sclerosis (MS) development is being intensively investigated. Previously, we the first who observed a significant increase in the expression of 26 microRNA genes localized in the DLK1-DIO3 locus in men with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), using RNA sequencing.Objective: to evaluate the possible involvement of miRNAs in the regulation of the activity of the pathological process in RRMS by comparing the miRNA genes expression levels from this locus in patients in remission, relapse, and healthy individuals, separately for men and women.Patients and methods. Analysis of miR-431-5p, miR-127-3p, miR-379, miR-376c, miR-381, miR-410 and miR-656-3p microRNA expression was performed by reverse transcription and subsequent real-time polymerase chain reaction in PBMCs of 16 patients in the relapse stage, 20 patients in remission who did not receive immunomodulatory drugs, and 20 healthy individuals.Results and discussion. The expression levels of all studied miRNAs did not differ in patients in remission and relapse stages, in men and women. At the same time, men (in remission and relapse) showed a significant increase in the levels of all miRNAs compared with healthy men; in women, no changes in expression were observed. A high level of correlation of miRNA expression from the DLK1-DIO3 locus was shown in both patients and healthy individuals from the control group, regardless of gender. Coexpression was observed not only for miRNA genes from the same cluster (14q32.2 or 14q32.31), but also for genes from different clusters.Conclusion. The miRNAs genes from the DLK1-DIO3 locus are involved in the pathophysiology of RMS onset, but not in the processes associated with the transition from remission to relapses. The high consistency of miRNA expression, regardless of the localization of their genes within this region, suggests the presense of a common mechanism that regulates their transcription.

Comparison of fluid dynamics changes due to physical activity in 3D printed patient specific coronary phantoms with the Windkessel equivalent model of coronary flow

Background3D printing (3DP) used to replicate the geometry of normal and abnormal vascular pathologies has been demonstrated in many publications; however, reproduction of hemodynamic changes due to physical activities, such as rest versus moderate exercise, need to be investigated. We developed a new design for patient specific coronary phantoms, which allow adjustable physiological variables such as coronary distal resistance and coronary compliance in patients with coronary artery disease. The new design was tested in precise benchtop experiments and compared with a theoretical Windkessel electrical circuit equivalent, that models coronary flow and pressure using arterial resistance and compliance.MethodsFive phantoms from patients who underwent clinically indicated elective invasive coronary angiography were built from CCTA scans using multi-material 3D printing. Each phantom was used in a controlled flow system where patient specific flow conditions were simulated by a programmable cardiac pump. To simulate the arteriole and capillary beds flow resistance and the compliance for various physical activities, we designed a three-chamber outlet system which controls the outflow dynamics of each coronary tree. Benchtop pressure measurements were recorded using sensors embedded in each of the main coronary arteries. Using the Windkessel model, patient specific flow equivalent electrical circuit models were designed for each coronary tree branch, and flow in each artery was determined for known inflow conditions. Local flow resistances were calculated through Poiseuille’s Law derived from the radii and lengths of the coronary arteries using CT angiography based multi-planar reconstructions. The coronary stenosis flow rates from the benchtop and the electrical models were compared to the localized flow rates calculated from invasive pressure measurements recorded in the angio-suites.ResultsThe average Pearson correlations of the localized flow rates at the location of the stenosis between each of the models (Benchtop/Electrical, Benchtop/Angio, Electrical/Angio) are 0.970, 0.981, and 0.958 respectively.Conclusions3D printed coronary phantoms can be used to replicate the human arterial anatomy as well as blood flow conditions. It displays high levels of correlation when compared to hemodynamics calculated in electrically-equivalent coronary Windkessel models as well as invasive angio-suite pressure measurements.

Validation of a novel quality of life questionnaire: the Digestion-associated Quality of Life Questionnaire (DQLQ)

BackgroundFew health-related quality of life (QOL) questionnaires are designed specifically for healthy populations and are specific to gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms even though healthy individuals may frequently experience gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a tool that could assess the impact of GI symptoms on digestion-associated QOL in otherwise healthy individuals.MethodsAfter a review of current literature and with input from experienced GI researchers, a 24-item questionnaire was created. The questionnaire was reduced to 9 items with input from focus groups comprised of healthy adults experiencing GI-related symptoms and through variability analysis. The Digestion-associated QOL Questionnaire (DQLQ) was designed to be sensitive to the physical and mental well-being changes that may occur due to GI symptoms. The DQLQ was assessed for internal consistency reliability (Cronbach’s alpha; McDonald’s omega), test–retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC), and construct validity (Pearson correlations) in a study with healthy, academically stressed, undergraduate students. Convergent validity was evaluated by correlating the DQLQ with gastrointestinal symptom rating scale (GSRS) scores. Divergent validity was assessed by correlating DQLQ scores with stress scores, and bowel satisfaction scores.ResultsA total of 594 students (age 18–30 years) completed the DQLQ. Internal consistency reliability was favorable (n = 594; α = 0.84, ω = 0.84). A high level of agreement and correlation between DQLQ scores was found with the test–retest reliability analysis (n = 273; ICC = 0.89). The questionnaire was shown to have good convergent validity through correlation with the GSRS (n = 594; r = 0.54). Divergent validity was also shown to be appropriate by correlating DQLQ scores with stress (n = 592; r = 0.13, p < 0.005), and bowel satisfaction (n = 592; r = 0.18, p < 0.001) scores.ConclusionThe DQLQ is a reliable and valid questionnaire for assessing digestion-associated QOL in healthy individuals.

DETERMINING FACTORS OF CONSTRUCTION MARKET DEVELOPMENT

The article reviews the scientific literature on the study of factors in the development of construction markets. The analysis of trends in the development of the construction market in Ukraine was carried out, according to the results of which it was established that this market is rapidly developing today. The structure of the completed construction work has been investigated, as a result of which it has been established that in recent years there has been an increase in the share of construction of engineering structures. In the structure of work on the construction of buildings, the share of construction of non-residential objects is growing, and the share of residential construction is decreasing. A hypothesis about the structure of factors influencing the development of the construction market is considered. Selected factors are systematized into categories such as financial, economic and social. The results of the correlation analysis of factors influencing the development of the construction market are presented. It was found that such factors as average wages, incomes and expenses of the population, gross domestic product, index of construction products and population size have a high level of correlation between the resulting indicator of the development of the construction market. Correlation analysis of selected factors showed a close correlation between them and the resulting indicator of the construction market. Conclusions are drawn and prospects for the development of the research are determined. According to the results of the study the goals and objectives of further study of the factors of development of construction markets are determined. This is a key decision in developing a strategy for development over a long period of time.

Comparison of Azure Kinect and optical retroreflective motion capture for kinematic and spatiotemporal evaluation of the sit-to-stand test

BackgroundThe sit-to-stand test (STS) is commonly used to evaluate functional capabilities within a variety of clinical populations. Traditionally STS is a timed test, limiting the depth of information which can be gained from its evaluation. The Azure Kinect has the potential to add in-depth analysis to STS. Despite these potential benefits, the recently released (2019) Azure Kinect has yet to be evaluated for its ability to accurately assess STS. Research questionsPurposes of this work were to compare data captured during STS using both a 12 camera Vicon motion capture system and the Azure Kinect; and to calculate kinematic and spatiotemporal variables related to the four phases of the STS cycle. MethodsSpatiotemporal and kinematic measures for STS were simultaneously collected by both devices for 15 participants. Cycle waveforms were compared for right and left hip and knee flexion/extension angular displacement, right and left hip and knee flexion/extension angular velocity, and knee-to-ankle separation ratio. Evaluated discrete outcome variables included: phase time points, maximum knee extension velocity from phases 3 to 4, medial-lateral pelvic sway range, and total time to completion. Waveform summary data were compared using R, R2, and RMSE. Discrete variables were analyzed using Spearman’s Rank correlation coefficient. ResultsR and R2 values between the two systems indicated high levels of correlation (all R values > 0.711, all R2 values > 0.660). Although there was an overall high level of agreement between waveform shapes, high RMSE values indicated some minor tracking errors for Kinect within the STS cycle. Spearman’s Rank correlation coefficient indicated high levels of correlation between the systems for discrete variables (all R values > 0.89), with the exception of medial-lateral pelvic sway range. SignificanceThe Azure Kinect provides valuable insight into STS movement strategies allowing for improved precision in clinical decision making across multiple clinical populations.

Validity of detrended fluctuation analysis of heart rate variability to determine intensity thresholds in elite cyclists

ABSTRACT Background: The evaluation of performance in endurance athletes and the subsequent individualisation of training is based on the determination of individual physiological thresholds during incremental tests. Gas exchange or blood lactate analysis are usually implemented for this purpose, but these methodologies are expensive and invasive. The short-term scaling exponent alpha 1 of detrended Fluctuation Analysis (DFA-α1) of the Heart Rate Variability (HRV) has been proposed as a non-invasive methodology to detect intensity thresholds. Purpose: The aim of this study is to analyse the validity of DFA-α1 HRV analysis to determine the individual training thresholds in elite cyclists and to compare them against the lactate thresholds. Methodology: 38 male elite cyclists performed a graded exercise test to determine their individual thresholds. HRV and blood lactate were monitored during the test. The first (LT1 and DFA-α1-0.75, for lactate and HRV, respectively) and second (LT2 and DFA-α1-0.5, for lactate and HRV, respectively) training intensity thresholds were calculated. Then, these points were matched to their respective power output (PO) and heart rate (HR). Results: There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) between the DFA-α1-0.75 and LT1 with significant positive correlations in PO (r = 0.85) and HR (r = 0.66). The DFA-α1-0.5 was different against LT2 in PO (p = 0.04) and HR (p = 0.02), but it showed significant positive correlation in PO (r = 0.93) and HR (r = 0.71). Conclusions: The DFA1-a-0.75 can be used to estimate LT1 non-invasively in elite cyclists. Further research should explore the validity of DFA-α1-0.5. Highlights The power and heart rate values derived from the DFA-α1-0.75 threshold showed high levels of validity and agreement when they were compared against the first lactate threshold. The second lactate threshold and the DFA-α1-0.5 were different (p < 0.05) but showed high levels of correlation. The detrended fluctuation analysis is a valid method to estimate the first lactate threshold and more studies are needed to verify its validity with the second lactate threshold.

YOĞUN BAKIMA YATAN TİP 2 DİYABETLİ HASTALARIN İNSÜLİNE KARŞI ALGILARI İLE DİYABET ÖZ YÖNETİMLERİ ARASINDAKİ İLİŞKİNİN İNCELENMESİ

Aim: This study aimed to determine the level of perception of insulin and diabetes symptom management of patients with Type 2 diabetes who received inpatient treatment in intensive care. &#x0D; Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in the Internal Medicine and Anesthesia Intensive Care units of a state hospital during the period of December 01, 2020 and March 31, 2021. The sample of the study was composed of 100 voluntary patients who used insulin. Research data were collected via the Patient Introduction Form, Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire and the Insulin Treatment Appraisal Scale. Written permission was obtained from ethics committee and patients. &#x0D; Results: The average age of the patients was 44.57 ± 14.8, 52% were female, 72% were single, 47% were primary school graduates, and 52% had a chronic complication related to diabetes. The mean time duration for being diagnosed with diabetes was 20.59 ± 12.87 years (3-52) while the mean duration of insulin use was 2.8 ± 1.17 years. Patients’ ITAS positive and negative item subscale mean scores were 11.44 ± 3.43 and 48.18 ± 12.09, respectively. Patients’ mean Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire total score was 4.07 ± 1.74 (range: 0.62-8.75).&#x0D; Conclusion: Patients have a high negative perception towards insulin use and their diabetes self-management is below the average. There was a high level of negative correlation between patients’ negative insulin perception and glucose management and diet control sub-dimensions of their diabetes self-management.

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in preeclampsia complicated by pulmonary edema shows myocardial edema with normal left ventricular systolic function

Preeclampsia complicates approximately 5% of all pregnancies. When pulmonary edema occurs, it accounts for 50% of preeclampsia-related mortality. Currently, there is no consensus on the degree to which left ventricular systolic dysfunction contributes to the development of pulmonary edema. This study aimed to use cardiac magnetic resonance imaging to detect subtle changes in left ventricular systolic function and evidence of acute left ventricular dysfunction (through tissue characterization) in women with preeclampsia complicated by pulmonary edema compared with both preeclamptic and normotensive controls. Cases were postpartum women aged ≥18 years presenting with preeclampsia complicated by pulmonary edema. Of note, 2 control groups were recruited: women with preeclampsia without pulmonary edema and women with normotensive pregnancies. All women underwent echocardiography and 1.5T cardiac magnetic resonance imaging with native T1 and T2 mapping. Gadolinium contrast was administered to cases only. Because of small sample sizes, a nonparametric test (Kruskal-Wallis) with pairwise posthoc analysis using Bonferroni correction was used to compare the differences between the groups. Cardiac magnetic resonance images were interpreted by 2 independent reporters. The intraclass correlation coefficient was calculated to assess interobserver reliability. Here, 20 women with preeclampsia complicated by pulmonary edema, 13 women with preeclampsia (5 with severe features and 8 without severe features), and 6 normotensive controls were recruited. There was no difference in the baseline characteristics between groups apart from the expected differences in blood pressure. Left atrial sizes were similar across all groups. Women with preeclampsia complicated by pulmonary edema had increased left ventricular mass (P=.01) but had normal systolic function compared with the normotensive controls. Furthermore, they had elevated native T1 values (P=.025) and a trend toward elevated T2 values (P=.07) in the absence of late gadolinium enhancement consistent with myocardial edema. Moreover, myocardial edema was present in all women with eclampsia or hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count. Women with preeclampsia without severe features had similar findings to the normotensive controls. All cardiac magnetic resonance imaging measurements showed a very high level of interobserver correlation. This study focused on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in women with preeclampsia complicated by pulmonary edema, eclampsia, and hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count. We have demonstrated normal systolic function with myocardial edema in women with preeclampsia with these severe features. These findings implicate an acute myocardial process as part of this clinical syndrome. The pathogenesis of myocardial edema and its relationship to pulmonary edema require further elucidation. With normal left atrial sizes, any hemodynamic component must be acute.

Pathological Internet Use, Aggression, and Cyberbullying in Children and Adolescents With Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between pathological internet use, aggression, and cyberbullying/victimization in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Male children (10-18 years old) with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (n = 30) and without any diagnosis (n = 30) were evaluated using Questionnaire of Computer/Internet Use of Children and Adolescents (Children-Adolescent Form and Parent Form), Children's Aggression Scale-Parent Version, Young Internet Addiction Scale, and Cyber Bullying and Online Aggression Survey Instrument. Weekly internet/computer using time, Young Internet Addiction Scale scores, Children's Aggression Scale-Parent Version scores were higher in the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder group. When all participants included in the study were compared for the availability of rules related to the PC/internet use at their homes, it was determined that there were rules by 53.3%, and the rate of setting rules was higher in the control group than attention deficit hyperactivity disorder group. There is a high level of positive correlation between Internet Addiction Scale score and duration in internet use in the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder group. Those who experienced cyberbullying throughout their lives were at a higher rate in the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder group compared to the control group. "Physical aggression without provoking" subgroup of Children's Aggression Scale-Parent Version is correlated with cyberbullying in the attention deficit hyperactivity disorder group and cyber victimization in the control group. Children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder have higher levels of aggression and pathological internet use than healthy controls, but there is no difference between cyberbullying and victimization. Cyberbullying/victimization is independent of diagnosis. For this reason, it is necessary to create awareness and preventive measures of cyberbullying.

Correlation of Repeat Measurements of 27 Candidate Protein Markers for Colorectal Cancer Screening Taken Three Years and Multiple Freeze-Thaw Cycles Apart.

In recent years the blood proteome has been increasingly researched for biomarkers for early detection of colorectal cancer (CRC). Blood samples from screening studies are often subject to preanalytical variability and repeated freeze–thaw cycles. We aimed to assess the correlation of repeat measurements of 27 candidate protein markers for CRC screening taken three years and multiple freeze–thaw cycles apart. The concentrations of 27 protein markers were measured in plasma samples of 39 newly detected CRC cases from a cohort of 9245 participants of screening colonoscopies. The proteins were measured using proximity extension assays (PEA) carried out on the same set of samples twice, three years apart, with an average of three freeze–thaw cycles in between the two measurements. Pearson’s product moment correlation coefficients were calculated. Correlation coefficients ranged from +0.43 to +0.97, with a median of 0.67 and an interquartile range of +0.58 to +0.84, with all p-values of correlation being <0.01 (<0.0005 for 22 proteins, <0.001 for 4 proteins). Repeat measurements of the 27 protein biomarkers for CRC screening performed three years later, and on average three freeze–thaw cycles apart, showed moderate to high levels of correlation. Apart from the effects of freeze–thaw cycles, slightly different preprocessing performed on the data may have contributed to recorded differences between measurements.

Meteorological and Hydrological Drought Risk Assessment Using Multi-Dimensional Copulas in the Wadi Ouahrane Basin in Algeria

A persistent precipitation deficiency (meteorological drought) could spread to surface water bodies and produce a hydrological drought. Meteorological and hydrological droughts are thus closely related, even though they are separated by a time lag. For this reason, it is paramount for water resource planning and for drought risk analysis to study the connection between these two types of drought. With this aim, in this study, both meteorological and hydrological drought were analyzed in the Wadi Ouahrane Basin (Northwest Algeria). In particular, data from six rainfall stations and one hydrometric station for the period 1972–2018 were used to evaluate the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and the Standardized Runoff Index (SRI) at multiple timescales (1, 2, 3, 4, …, 12 months). By means of a copula function, the conditional return period for both types of drought was evaluated. Results evidenced that runoff is characterized by high level of temporal correlation in comparison to rainfall. Moreover, the composite index JDHMI (Joint Deficit Hydro-meteorological Index) was evaluated. This index is able to reflect the simultaneous hydrological and meteorological behavior at different timescales of 1–12 months well and can present the probability of a common hydrological and meteorological deficit situation more accurately and realistically compared to precipitation or runoff-based indicators. It was found that, over the analyzed basin, the average severity of combined hydro-meteorological drought (JDHMI) was 10.19, with a duration of 9 months and a magnitude of 0.93.