bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of modified Valsalva maneuver by using wide bore syringe for emergency treatment of supraventricular tachycardias: Findings from Pakistan
Authors: ASHRAF HIRA , FATIMA TURAB , ASHRAF IFRA , MAJEED SADAF
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives: The Valsalva maneuver (VM) is the most effective measure that can be carried out to treat supraventricular tachycardia (SVT). Our objective was to compare the efficacy of postural modified VM with 20 ml syringe to standard VM for the emergency treatment of SVT.

Methods: This randomized control trial study was conducted at the Accident and Emergency Department, Pakistan ordinance factories hospital, Wah Cantt from July 2019 to September 2020. In the standard Valsalva group, fifty patients were placed at an angle of 45 with continuous monitoring of vitals and electrocardiogram. Patients blew into a 20ml syringe to generate 40 mmHg pressure for 15 seconds and remained in the same position for 45 seconds before a reassessment of cardiac rhythm at one-minute and three-minute intervals. In the modified Valsalva group same procedure was repeated with the other fifty patients, but immediately at the end of the strain, they were laid flat with their legs raised to 45° for 15 seconds. Participants returned to semi-recumbent position and cardiac rhythm was reassessed after 45 seconds and then at one and three minutes.

Results: In the standard Valsalva maneuver (SVM)20.0% of participants versus 58% of participants in the modified Valsalva maneuvers group(MVM) reverted to sinus rhythm at one min (odds ratio or 5.52, 95% CI 2.26-13.47; p<0.001) and time of stay in the emergency room was (odds ratio or 2.39, 95% CI 1.45- 3.93; p<0.0001).

Conclusion: Modified Valsalva by using a wide-bore syringe is more effective method than standard Valsalva in terminating SVT.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.6725

How to cite this: Ashraf H, Fatima T, Ashraf I, Majeed S. Effectiveness of modified Valsalva maneuver by using wide bore syringe for emergency treatment of supraventricular tachycardias: Findings from Pakistan. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(3):693-697.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.6725

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Clinical evaluation of Alprostadil combined with Nimodipine in treatment of Cerebral Vasospasm after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in elderly patients
Authors: Liu Sisi , Gan Ning , Xie Jing , Zhang Yu , Su Fei , Jia Tongle
Published: March 2023

Objective: To analyze the clinical efficacy of alprostadil combined with nimodipine in the treatment of cerebral vasospasm (CVS) after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) in elderly patients.

Methods: This is a retrospective study. According to different treatment methods, the elderly 100 patients with CVS after SAH hospitalized in Baoding First Central Hospital from March 2020 to May 2021 were randomly divided into control group and observation group, with 50 patients in each group. The control group was treated with nimodipine, while the observation group was additionally combined with alprostadil. The levels of inflammatory factors and hemorheological indexes were measured before and after treatment. The clinical efficacy was compared and the adverse reactions were observed of the two groups.

Results: The overall clinical efficacy in the observation group (95.00%) was significantly higher than that in the control group (74.00%) (p<0.05). After treatment, serum tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-8 (IL-8), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and hemorheological indexes such as plasma viscosity, whole blood viscosity at high shear, whole blood viscosity at low shear, hematocrit and platelet adhesion decreased significantly compared with those before treatment (p<0.05), which were more obvious in the observation group (p<0.05). During treatment, the rate of adverse reactions in the observation group was 12.00%, and that in the control group was 8.00%, without statistically significant difference between the two groups (p> 0.05).

Conclusion: Alprostadil combined with nimodipine is markedly effective in the treatment of CVS after SAH in elderly patients. It can effectively reduce inflammatory factor levels and improve hemorheological indexes in patients, which is conducive to the repair of neurological function.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.6753

How to cite this: Liu S, Gan N, Xie J, Zhang Y, Su F, Jia T. Clinical evaluation of Alprostadil combined with Nimodipine in treatment of Cerebral Vasospasm after Subarachnoid Hemorrhage in elderly patients. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(3):682-686.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.6753

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Relations between antinuclear, antineutrophil cytoplasmic, anticardiolipin antibodies and degree of neurological deficit, cerebrovascular stenosis in cerebral infarction patients
Authors: Meng Huihong , Xing Xiaoming , Zhang Chao , Zhao Jing , Ren Cuijian , Liu Yonggang
Published: March 2023

Objective: To investigate the correlation of antinuclear antibody (ANA), antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) and anticardiolipin antibody (ACA) with the degree of the neurological defect and cerebrovascular stenosis in patients with cerebral infarction.

Methods: Clinical data of 99 patients with acute cerebral infarction (ACI) admitted to the Department of Neurology of Baoding First Central Hospital from June 2020 to December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed, and their ANA, ACA, ANCA, neurological deficit (NIHSS) scores as well as cerebrovascular stenosis were detected and assessed. Moreover, the correlation between the positive expression rates of ANA, ANCA, ACA and the degree of the neurological deficit, as well as the location and degree of cerebrovascular stenosis, were analyzed.

Results: All patients had ANA, ACA, ANCA antibodies with positive rates of 68.69%, 70.71%, 69.70%, and mild, moderate, and severe cerebrovascular stenosis with incidence rates of 28.28%, 32.32%, and 39.39% respectively; Moreover, their incidence of mild, moderate, and severe neurological deficits were 15.15%, 44.44%, and 40.40%, respectively. Statistically significant differences could be observed in the degree of cerebrovascular stenosis and neurological deficit between the ANA, ACA and ANCA antibody positive group and the negative group (p<0.05). ANA, ACA, ANCA antibody positive was moderately positively correlated with cerebrovascular stenosis rate and NIHSS score (0.40<r<0.60, p<0.05).

Conclusions: The positive rates of ANA, ACA and ANCA antibodies were higher in patients with ACI, which was closely correlated with the degree of cerebrovascular stenosis and neurological deficit.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.6765

How to cite this: Meng H, Xing X, Zhang C, Zhao J, Ren C, Liu Y. Relations between antinuclear, antineutrophil cytoplasmic, anticardiolipin antibodies and degree of neurological deficit, cerebrovascular stenosis in cerebral infarction patients. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(3):677-681.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.6765

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Does early application of needle-knife sphincterotomy (NKS) in patients with difficult biliary cannulation increase the risk of postERCP pancreatitis? A single centre study
Authors: Khan Rao Saad Ali , Alam Laima , Saeed Farrukh , Sher Farrukh , Khan Rao Zaid Ali
Published: March 2023

Objective: To determine that early needle-knife sphincterotomy does not increase post-ERCP pancreatitis in patients with difficult biliary cannulation as compared to standard cannulation.

Method: This prospective single-centre cohort study was carried out at Pak Emirates Military Hospital from January 2021 to June 2021. Patients requiring ERCP were enrolled in the study (according to inclusion and exclusion criteria) and were subsequently allotted different groups according to the technique used for deep biliary cannulation. Qualitative data was analysed using frequencies and chi square statistics whereas, quantitative data was analysed using mean±SD and one way ANOVA test.

Result: The cohort included 114 patients with 52.6% male patients and predominance of relatively younger age group (31-45 years). The most common indication for ERCP was choledocholithiasis (36%) with an overall technical success rate of 96%. Deep cannulation was achieved either through standard cannulation (56%), double guidewire and/or pancreatic stent assisted (10.5%), use of early Needle-Knife Sphincterotomy (19%), NKS as a last resort (3.5%) or Transpancreatic Stenting and/or combined sphincterotomy (6%). Pancreatitis as a complication occurred in 4(3.5%) patients, bleeding in 2(1.8%), on-table desaturation in 2(1.8%) and perforation in 1(0.9%) patient. The occurrence of pancreatitis was only related significantly to inadvertent PD cannulation through univariate and logistic regression analysis whereas, multiple cannulations (>5), gender, age, classification of papilla and the use of early NKS had no impact on pancreatitis or the occurrence of other complications.

Conclusion: NKS is an effective and safe modality for deep biliary cannulation and achieving technical success where cannulation is deemed difficult and does not increase the risk of PEP if done by experienced endoscopists in high volume centres.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.6777

How to cite this: Khan RSA, Alam L, Saeed F, Sher F, Khan RZA. Does early application of needle-knife sphincterotomy (NKS) in patients with difficult biliary cannulation increase the risk of postERCP pancreatitis? A single centre study. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(3):698-703.  doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.6777

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Clinical observation of Porcine Collagen Membrane + artificial Bovine Bone Granules Guided tissue regeneration combined with Autologous CGF in the treatment of severe periodontitis bone defect
Authors: Cheng Jue , Cheng Lin , Kong Ling-Wei , Qiu Wenfeng , Zhuang Runtao
Published: March 2023

Objective: To investigate and analyze the clinical observation of porcine collagen membrane + artificial bovine bone granules guided tissue regeneration (GTR) combined with autologous concentration of growth factors (CGF) in the treatment of severe periodontitis bone defect.

Methods: A total of 94 patients with severe periodontitis bone defects admitted to Shanxi Bethune Hospital from January 2019 to January 2022 were included. They were divided into two groups by simple randomization method. Patients in the control group were treated with porcine collagen membrane + artificial bovine bone granules GTR, while those in the observation group were treated with autologous CGF on the basis of the control group. Before and after treatment, periodontal clinical indicators [sulcus bleeding index (SBI), gingival retreat index (GR), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL), alveolar bone height (AH)] and bone resorption markers [Osteoprotegerin (OPG), bone gla protein (BGP), Type-1 collagen N-terminal peptide (NTX)] were compared between the two groups, and the incidence of postoperative complications in the two groups was recorded.

Results: The total efficacy of observation group was significantly higher than that of control group (p<0.05). Three months after surgery, the observation group had lower levels of SBI, PD, CAL and NTX while higher levels of GR, AH, OPG and BGP than the control group (p<0.05). There was no significant difference in complication rate between the two groups (p>0.05).

Conclusion: Porcine collagen membrane + artificial bovine bone granules GTR combined with autologous CGF boasts various benefits in the treatment of severe periodontitis bone defects, such as improvement of clinical outcomes, amelioration of periodontal tissue and inhibition of bone resorption.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.6899

How to cite this: Cheng J, Cheng L, Kong LW, Qiu W, Zhuang R. Clinical observation of Porcine Collagen Membrane + artificial Bovine Bone Granules Guided tissue regeneration combined with Autologous CGF in the treatment of severe periodontitis bone defect. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(3):710-714. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.6899

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
The The effect of azoospermia factor microdeletions on intracytoplasmic sperm injection results in azoospermia patients
Authors: Emirdar Volkan , Acet Ferruh
Published: March 2023

Background & Objective: Y chromosome abnormalities are common in male patients with severe oligo-azoospermia. In studies with karyotype analysis and cytogenetic methods, the importance of the Y chromosome in spermatogenesis has been well understood. Deletions in the azoospermia factor (AZF) localized at the distal end of the Y chromosome adversely affect the spermatogenesis process. Our objective was to determine the frequency of AZF microdeletion in azoospermia patients who underwent microTESE.

Methods: In this retrospective cohort study, 806 azoospermic men attending the In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Center for infertility treatment between 2010 and 2022 were included. AZF deletion screening was conducted in all patients included in the study. Azoospermic patients with and without Y microdeletion were matched with the female’s age, cause of infertility, number of oocytes retrieved and number of metaphase II (MII) oocytes produced and compared. The primary outcome was the live birth rate (LBR). Pregnancy rate (PR) and clinical pregnancy rates (CPR) were secondary outcomes.

Results: We detected Y microdeletion in 55 (6.82%) of 806 infertile azoospermic men and 35 of them included in the study. Although the required gonadotropin dose and the total number of retrieved oocytes were similar, clinical pregnancy rates and live birth rates were found to be significantly lower in the microdeletion patient group (21.6% vs. 43%, p<0.05; and 18.9% vs. 36%, p<0.05, respectively).

Conclusions: Poor sperm quality in AZF microdeletion patients complicates the selection of appropriate sperm for ICSI. Therefore, it leads to a decrease in embryonic development, fertilization and pregnancy results. In order to select the best sperm for the use in ICSI procedure in this patient population, intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection (IMSI) method can be preferred to improve the cycle outcomes.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.7003

How to cite this: Emirdar V, Acet F. The effect of azoospermia factor microdeletions on intracytoplasmic sperm injection results in azoospermia patients. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(3):672-676. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.7003

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Comparison of single and double centrifugation methods for preparation of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
Authors: Saqlain Nazish , Mazher Naghmana , Fateen Tooba , Siddique Asma
Published: March 2023

Objective: To compare the platelet count, platelet concentration/yield, residual Red blood cells (RBCs) and White blood cells (WBCs) counts in platelet-rich plasma (PRP) samples prepared from the single- and the double-centrifugation protocols.

Methods: It was a Cross-Sectional study, conducted at the Department of Hematology & Transfusion Medicine, The Children’s Hospital and UCHS, Lahore from October 2021 to January 2022 including 50 voluntary, healthy individuals of age 20-45 years of both genders, after taking informed consent. Complete blood count analysis of all participants was done initially by drawing 3ml blood in EDTA vial. From all the participants, 20 ml venous blood sample was taken in syringes containing tri-sodium citrate and then shifted to harvest tubes. Group-I comprised of PRP samples prepared by single- centrifugation method. While Group-II samples were prepared by Double-centrifugation method consisting of soft and hard spin. The platelet, RBC and WBC counts in prepared PRP samples were determined by using automated SYSMEX XP-100 hematology analyzer. Platelet yield or Platelet concentration (%) was calculated for samples using formula. The data analysis was done using SPSS version 23.

Results: The mean PRP platelet count in Group-I was 594.6±157.4×103/µl whereas in Group-II was 923.06 ± 127.58×103/µl. In Group-I, the mean platelet concentration/yield in PRP was 175.75 ± 55.08% while in Group-II, it was 276.78 ± 112.7%. Significant difference was observed between the platelet counts and platelet concentration/yields from the PRP samples of two Group-s (p < 0.01). Significant difference between the WBCs count was also observed (p < 0.01) with higher WBCs in Group-I PRP. Residual RBCs were almost same among two Group-s.

Conclusions: The double centrifugation protocol resulted in higher platelet quantity and yield with less contamination by red and white blood cells than did the single centrifugation protocol for PRP preparation. So, double centrifugation method is beneficial in preparation of autologous as well as allogenic PRP.

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.7264

How to cite this: Saqlain N, Mazher N, Fateen T, Siddique A. Comparison of single and double centrifugation methods for preparation of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(3):634-637. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.7264

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Quantitative evaluation of cardiac magnetic resonance feature tracking (CMR-FT) derived strain in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Saeed Sahrai , Eriksen Erlend , Larsen Terje H.
Published: March 2023

doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.7571

How to cite this: Saeed S, Eriksen E, Larsen TH. Quantitative evaluation of cardiac magnetic resonance feature tracking (CMR-FT) derived strain in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction. Pak J Med Sci. 2023;39(3):629-630. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.39.3.7571

This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Testing the Unreal
Authors: Milton Tina
Published: March 2023

The development of VR and AR systems is blurring the line between the real and virtual world. But as exciting as they are, these immersive technologies create huge challenges for testing and certification.
Certified: Eurovision
Authors:   Csa Group
Published: March 2023

In the latest in our series on certification best practice, CSA Group explains how European smart home appliance makers can navigate the international regulatory landscape to access a global market for their products.
Heart of the Matter
Authors: Bashford Rachel
Published: March 2023

Launched with the backing of tech giants like Amazon and Apple, Matter 1.0 is seen as the future of IoT interoperability. But how is the testing community keeping pace with this new connectivity standard?
A Manner of Spea King
Authors: Willis Paul
Published: March 2023

Voice recognition technologies are more popular than ever. But successfully testing them requires a sophisticated understanding of the complex ways they are used, and of the acoustic environments they must operate in.
A Common Thread
Authors: Hullatti Shweta
Published: March 2023

UL Solutions looks at how the new Matter 1.0 standard can work alongside the wireless technology Thread to unlock unprecedented levels of connectivity for smart home tech developers.
The Right Light
Authors: Todd Chelsea
Published: March 2023

High irradiance testing of consumer electronics is growing in popularity, but without a precise understanding of the methodology, testers run the risk of inaccurate or misleading results, says Atlas Material Testing Technology.
Face Value
Authors: Corning Anne
Published: March 2023

As their use in consumer electronics becomes more widespread, facial recognition technologies must be painstakingly tested to ensure their safety and effectiveness, says Radiant Vision Systems.
Transfer Talks
Authors: Hayes Steve
Published: March 2023

In this global guide, Element Materials Technology delves into the practicalities and potential pitfalls of bringing Wireless Power Transfer (WPT) products to market.
Vocal Arrangement
Authors: Gierlich Hans-Wilhelm
Published: March 2023

Consumer acceptance of voice assistant devices depends in large measure on the performance of their voice recognition systems. HEAD acoustics reveals best practice for the testing and optimization of these technologies.
Neural Network-based Inverse Model for Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy
Authors: Lan Qing , McClarren ryan , Vishwanath Karthik
Published: March 2023

In diffuse optical spectroscopy, the retrieval of the optical properties of a target requires the inversion of a measured reflectance spectrum. This is typically achieved through the use of forward models such as diffusion theory or Monte Carlo simulations, which are iteratively applied to optimize the reconstruction of the optical parameters. In this paper, we propose a novel neural network-based approach for solving this inverse problem, and establish its performance using experimentally measured diffuse reflectance data from a previously reported phantom study. Our inverse model was developed from a neural network forward model that was pre-trained with data from Monte Carlo simulations. The neural network forward model then creates a lookup table to invert the diffuse reflectance to the optical coefficients. We describe the construction of the neural network-based inverse model and test its ability to accurately retrieve optical properties from experimentally acquired diffuse reflectance data in liquid optical phantoms. Our results indicate that the developed neural network-based model achieves comparable accuracy to traditional Monte Carlo-based inverse models while offering improved speed and flexibility, potentially providing an alternative for developing faster clinical diagnosis tools. This study highlights the potential of neural networks in solving inverse problems in diffuse optical spectroscopy.
Multicultural hospitality and immigration in Winnipeg, Manitoba: Host–guest dynamics
Authors: Piquemal Nathalie , Zellama Faiçal , Sall Leyla , Bolivar Bathélemy
Published: March 2023

Relying on qualitative data obtained from newcomers in Winnipeg, Manitoba, this article critically examines hospitality, specifically host–guest dynamics, with special attention to cultural discontinuities and contentious policies on foreign credentials. In particular, this article sheds light on the contested nature of hospitality practices, thereby moving beyond the notion of vertical power relations between the nation state as host and immigrants as guests to acknowledge the existence of everyday reciprocal practices of welcoming and supporting one another, such as those occurring in ethnocultural communities. In order to highlight the challenges related to the implementation of the principles of hospitality, we begin by making a brief presentation of the dimensions of this concept and by problematizing multicultural hospitality with special attention to critical multiculturalism. Based on qualitative data, we then problematize hospitality with special attention to social relations and cultural discontinuities. Finally, we conclude with a discussion on guest and host factors in the concretization of multicultural hospitality with and for immigrants.
We Can Do More: COVID-19's Spotlight on the Lack of Financial Literacy
Authors: Molchan Stephen
Published: March 2023

Financial literacy is an important skillset for individuals to have so they can properly manage their financial well-being. Individuals across the United States are lacking in financial literacy, and therefore often struggle with navigating major financial events in addition to their
daily personal finance decisions. K-12 family and consumer sciences (FCS) educators are equipped with the tools and resources to address this issue so individuals are better equipped to make sound financial decisions. Data from the TIAA-GFLEC Personal Finance (P-FIN) Index shows the overall
lack of financial literacy throughout the U.S. (Yakoboski et al., 2021). The P-Fin Index is an annual survey conducted by the TIAA Institute and the GFLEC (Global Financial Literacy Excellence Center). The P-FIN Index measures both knowledge and understanding of skills that allow adults to
properly manage their personal finances. In order for FCS educators to help individuals improve their financial literacy, they will need to focus on both their own professional development and expansion of financial literacy education.
Providing Quality Work-Based Learning Training for Secondary Family & Consumer Sciences Educators
Authors: Miller Cynthia L. , Hough Twyla
Published: March 2023

Families and community members are challenging secondary schools to improve career readiness preparation. Family and consumer sciences (FCS) educators can be instrumental in helping students prepare effectively for a career with school-to-work transitions through work-based learning
(WBL). This article presents the implementation of a 2-day FCS educator training designed to guide and build sustainable high-quality WBL experiences for students through a continuum of WBL options.
COVID-19 Redefines Food Consumption Patterns: The New Normal for FCS Professionals
Authors: Ismail Fatihaat , Crutsinger Christy
Published: March 2023

Food is a key aspect of our personal health; hence, it is no surprise that the COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted our food system, transformed our relationship with food, and redefined normal around the world (Janssen et al., 2021). This Feature highlights some of the major changes in
food consumption patterns prompted by the pandemic and provides suggestions for family and consumer sciences (FCS) professionals to leverage these changes for new career and market opportunities.
A proof of a trace formula by Richard Melrose
Authors: Colin de Verdière Yves
Published: March 2023

The goal of this article is to give a new proof of the wave trace formula proved by Richard Melrose in an impressive article. This trace formula is an extension of the Chazarain-Duistermaat-Guillemin trace formula (denoted as “CDG trace formula” in this article) to the case of a sub-Riemannian Laplacian on a 3D contact closed manifold. The proof uses a normal form constructed in previous papers, following the pioneering work of Melrose to reduce the case of the invariant Laplacian on the 3D-Heisenberg group. We need also the propagation of singularities results of the works of Ivrii, Lascar, and Melrose.
The IWH Forecasting Dashboard: From Forecasts to Evaluation and Comparison
Authors: Heinisch Katja , Behrens Christoph , Döpke Jörg , Foltas Alexander , Fritsche Ulrich , Köhler Tim , Müller Karsten , Puckelwald Johannes , Reichmayr Hannes
Published: March 2023

The paper describes the “Halle Institute for Economic Research (IWH) Forecasting Dashboard (ForDas)”. This tool aims at providing, on a non-commercial basis, historical and actual macroeconomic forecast data for the Germany economy to researchers and interested audiences. The database renders it possible to directly compare forecast quality across selected institutions and over time. It is partly based on data collected in the DFG-funded project “Macroeconomic forecasts in great crisis”.
World Heart Day: Clinical case to raise awareness on cardiovascular disease in women
Authors: Sun Marie Chan
Published: March 2023

The World Heart Federation highlights that cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women worldwide. Indeed, women have unique female-specific risk factors for stroke, which include pregnancy, history of preeclampsia/eclampsia or gestational diabetes, duration of reproductive life, oral contraceptive use, and postmenopausal hormone therapy. In light of the female-specific risk factors and/or predisposing conditions, there is need to sensitize health professionals and the public in general on CVD in women. This clinical case is being shared with the written consent of the patient so as to avoid misdiagnosis or underdiagnosis of CVD among women.
Dilute hydrochloric acid induced switching from antagonism to synergism in the binary mixed systems of cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) and sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS)
Authors: Abdel-Rahem Rami A.
Published: March 2023

A synergism is reported in the binary mixtures of cocamidopropyl betaine (CAPB) and sodium dodecyl benzene sulfonate (SDBS) at mole fractions of 0.25, 0.50, and 0.75, in dilute hydrochloric acid solutions (∼0.05 M) HCl, at 25 °C. Such synergism is confirmed by surface tension values, critical micelle concentration (CMC), and interaction parameter values according to Holland and Rubingh’s model and the satisfaction of Hua and Rosen conditions. Surface excess (Γ) at air/water interface and the minimum area occupied by surfactant molecule (A
min) also indicated a reduction in the A
min of mixed CAPB/SDBS compared to single surfactants that is due to the strong electrostatic interaction between surfactants heads. The composition of CAPB/SDBS mixed micelles, the interaction parameter (β) and the micellar activity coefficients (f
1 and f
2) were evaluated from the regular solution model for these binary amphoteric/anionic mixed systems. It is clear the CAPB surfactants are converted to the cationic form by charging in the presence of HCl, which enhances the interaction between the oppositely charged CAPB and SDBS heads and overcomes the unfavourable packing between the tails predicted in pure water. Such strong interaction was also reflected on the phase behavior of CAPB/SDBS binary mixed system. Accordingly, a switching from antagonism to synergism is reported for CAPB/SDBS binary mixed system in the presence of dilute hydrochloric acid.
How are ad scepticism levels of young consumers shaped? Testing with simultaneous quantile regression analysis
Authors: KIYMALIOĞLU Aslıhan
Published: March 2023

Advertising is an important persuasion tool for marketing efforts shaping consumer attitudes and behavioural intentions. Among the factors determining consumer attitudes toward advertising is ad scepticism.  Comprehending how consumer scepticism toward ads is formed is therefore considered contributory. With this purpose, the research hypothesising the effect of cynicism, self-esteem, and market mavens on ad scepticism was modelled, and 374 observations obtained from members of Generation Z were tested with simultaneous quantile regression analysis. The findings revealed the effect of each variable for different quantile conditions of ad scepticism. The originality of the research is twofold. The first one is using market mavens, which have not been subject to research regarding their effect on ad scepticism and contributing to ad scepticism nomologic framework by supporting the significant effect of this variable. And the second one provides a detailed picture of the effects of independent variables on different levels of ad scepticism.
Sustainable consumption behaviour: A conceptual assessment
Authors: SARGIN Sinem , DURSUN Yunus
Published: March 2023

Environmental problems caused by human activities are increasing day by day. Both the production and consumption of goods and services cause negative environmental impacts to a large extent. Governments, adopting the concept of sustainable development, develop strategies to promote sustainable consumer behaviour to eliminate these negativities. For these strategies to be effective, it is necessary to know how sustainable consumer behaviour occurs and what they are affected by. Sustainable consumption behaviour is defined as the actions consumers take not to endanger the needs of generations and to minimise waste damage on the life cycle. This study discusses sustainable consumption behaviour from a conceptual framework and includes recent studies. The study is expected to contribute to the marketing literature and guide marketing managers.
Hibrit Entropi ve EATWIOS teknikleri ile Türk kamu bankalarının verimlilik analizi
Authors: ÇİLEK Arif , KARAVARDAR Alper
Published: March 2023

Bu çalışmada, Türkiye’de bulunan kamu sermayeli bankaların verimliliklerinin 2009-2019 döneminde ölçülmesi ve değerlendirilmesi amaçlanmıştır. Türk bankacılık kesiminde faaliyette bulunan sermayesi kamuya ait bankaların verimlilik değerlerini incelemek amacıyla Entropi ve EATWIOS tekniklerinden meydana gelen entegre bir analiz gerçekleştirilmiştir. Entropi tekniği kullanılarak girdi ve çıktı kıstaslarının önem seviyeleri tespit edilmiş, EATWIOS tekniği ile kamu bankalarının verimlilikleri ölçülmüştür. Verimlilik düzeyi en yüksek olan bankanın 2009-2014 döneminde Halk Bankası, 2015-2019 döneminde ise Ziraat Bankası olduğu belirlenmiştir. Ayrıca, verimlilik düzeyi en düşük olan bankanın 2009-2012 döneminde Ziraat Bankası, 2013-2016 döneminde Vakıflar Bankası ve 2017-2019 döneminde Halk Bankası olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Literatürde, kamu bankalarıyla ilgili bu teknikler kullanılarak yapılan bir çalışmaya rastlanılmamıştır.
Duygusal zekânın bilinçli tüketim davranışı üzerindeki etkisinde yaşam doyumunun aracılık rolünün incelenmesi
Authors: BEYAZ Rafet
Published: March 2023

Bu çalışma, duygusal zekânın yaşam doyumu ve bilinçli tüketim davranışı üzerindeki etkisini incelemek amacıyla yapılmıştır. Çalışmanın diğer bir amacı ise duygusal zekânın bilinçli tüketim davranışı üzerindeki etkisinde yaşam doyumunun aracılık rolünü araştırmaktır. Belirlenen amaçlar doğrultusunda kolayda örnekleme yöntemi kullanılarak 425 katılımcı ile anket çalışması yapılmıştır. Anket çalışması, yüz yüze ve elektronik ortamda oluşturulan formlar ile gerçekleştirilmiştir. Toplanan verilere, frekans analizi, faktör analizi, korelasyon analizi ve regresyon (PROCESS) analizleri yapılmıştır. PROCESS analizinde Hayes Macro 4 Modeli kullanılmıştır. Analizler, SPSS 25 paket programı ile yapılmıştır. Analiz sonucunda, duygusal zekânın yaşam doyumu ve bilinçli tüketim davranışı üzerinde pozitif bir etkiye sahip olduğu görülmüştür. Bununla birlikte duygusal zekânın bilinçli tüketim davranışı üzerindeki etkisinde yaşam doyumunun aracılık rolü de tespit edilmiştir.
The intermediary role of employee voice in the prediction of communication satisfaction by transactional leadership in aviation
Authors: YILMAZ Rabia
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to determine the intermediary role of employee voice in predicting communication satisfaction by transactional leadership in the aviation sector. The study collected data from 351 white-collar employees working in air taxi organizations operating in the aviation sector throughout Turkey by survey method. SPSS 23.0 and AMOS 24.0 programs were used in the analysis. Frequency analysis, factor analysis, descriptive statistics, the goodness of fit values, and correlation analyses were applied in the study. In addition, the structural equation modelling analysis was used to determine the intermediary role. As a result of the research findings, it was found that the employee voice plays a semi-mediating role in the effect of transactional leadership on the communication climate, communication with superiors, and feedback, which are among the sub-dimensions of communication satisfaction. As a result, it was determined that the employee voice had a partial intermediary role in the prediction of the communication satisfaction of the transactional leadership.
Identificación de servicios de los ecosistemas: reconocimiento y desafíos para la planificación del desarrollo
Authors: Campos Rojas Gabriel Gerardo , Lacayo Moya María Félix , Chavarría Fernández Keylin Lorena
Published: March 2023

En este trabajo, se analizó la identificación de servicios de los ecosistemas, por parte de los habitantes de la Gran Área Metropolitana de Costa Rica, como aporte al reconocimiento de oportunidades y desafíos para la planificación del desarrollo en la zona. Se aplicó una encuesta en los parques centrales de los siguientes cantones: La Unión, Atenas, Alajuela, San José, Heredia, Paraíso, Cartago, Poás, Mora, Santa Ana y Santa Bárbara. Los resultados reflejaron que el 94 % de las personas entrevistadas consideran que obtiene servicios ecosistémicos, lo cual permite a la planificación, como disciplina, diseñar métodos que integren, en los planes, programas y proyectos, los servicios de los ecosistemas como eje transversal de los procesos planificadores del desarrollo. Los servicios más reconocidos fueron los de mayor dependencia para que el ser humano subsista y se identificó que el reconocerlos se supedita al conocimiento que tiene la población de su territorio. También, un 87 % de las personas encuestadas identificó amenazas para los servicios ecosistémicos, una oportunidad para que quienes habitan los lugares seleccionados participen en la formulación y ejecución de acciones dirigidas a contrarrestar dichas amenazas. Se determinó que en la planificación del desarrollo es necesario el diseño de herramientas que vinculen la identificación de los servicios ecosistémicos con el planteamiento de acciones, las cuales contribuyan al bienestar económico y social, alineado con la conservación ecológica.
Hacia una visión sistémica de la empleabilidad
Authors: Jiménez-Ulate Josué
Published: March 2023

El artículo inicia con una revisión de la literatura científica existente de la empleabilidad, estableciendo algunas tendencias en los objetivos desarrollados por diversas personas autoras desde múltiples disciplinas (historia del concepto, desarrollo de perspectivas teóricas, análisis y medición de factores de la empleabilidad) en el que se evidencia la necesidad adoptar un enfoque sistémico e integrador de la empleabilidad. A partir de esta revisión, la persona autora se plantea como objetivo elaborar una propuesta epistemológica de la empleabilidad fundamentada desde la postura sistémica de Mario Bunge, del pensamiento complejo de Edgar Morin y de la perspectiva interactiva de la empleabilidad de Ronald McQuaind y Colin Lindsay, para contribuir al debate académico de la temática desde una visión sistémica. En esta propuesta se aborda la empleabilidad como un constructo multidimensional, interactivo y complejo, el cual se refiere a la capacidad relativa de la persona para ingresar, permanecer y progresar en el trabajo para favorecer la realización de sus aspiraciones, la cual emerge de la interacción entre la persona con sus factores individuales, sus circunstancias personales y los factores externos. Se reflexiona desde esta postura que el Estado en alianza con el sector productivo deben generar las condiciones contextuales e institucionales para atender las desigualdades estructurales de los mercados de trabajo, especialmente de colectivos vulnerables; por su parte, la persona, tiene como principal reto la actitud con la enfrentará los retos para gestionar de manera exitosa su carrera, así como las transiciones laborales que ocurrirán a lo largo de esta.
Aplicación del discurso teórico en diversos espacios de la realidad social: un acercamiento sociológico entre actores sociales
Authors: García Chaves Yamileth De los Ángeles , Pérez Carrillo Yolanda
Published: March 2023

El presente artículo plasma el quehacer sociológico desde una aproximación del discurso teórico y su abordaje práctico del objeto de estudio. En este se explica el proceso de acercamiento a la realidad sociológica, desde una perspectiva teórica y metodológica, que permita visibilizar algunos de los procesos institucionales y comunitarios en los que se puede desempeñar la persona profesional en sociología. La metodología para desarrollar este escrito se fundamenta en el análisis documental. Los principales resultados plantean el proceso de acercamiento a la realidad institucional y comunitaria.
Evaluación técnico-económica del uso de biopolímeros para el tratamiento de aguas residuales de curtiembres.
Authors: Basurto-Flores Nickole , Medina-Guerrero Nataly
Published: March 2023

[Introduction]: For years, wastewater from tanneries has been discharged into various water sources without any control or with inefficient technologies, generating an impact on water quality. [Objective]: To evaluate the technical-economic feasibility of the use of the biopolymer pectin and chitosan for the treatment of tannery wastewater. [Methods]: Extraction of pectin from cocona and chitosan from shrimp was performed. A jar test was performed where the wastewater and biopolymers were combined, the agitation speed was 120 rpm and the contact time was 1, 2 and 3 h. Analyses of pH, chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total suspended solids (TSS) and Cr+6 were performed on the samples obtained. For comparison with Maximum Allowable Values (MAV), the samples that showed the highest TSS and Cr+6 removal were used. For the statistical analysis of the different times and concentrations an ANOVA and multiple comparison test was performed, for the comparison of efficiencies between pectin and chitosan a Student's t-test was performed.[Results]: In the amount of 1 g of both chitosan and pectin there was a removal of Cr+6 of 98.33 % and 98.30 % respectively, both with a time of 1 h, in total suspended solids there was a reduction of 98 % with 1 h of mixing for pectin and 96 % with 3 h of mixing using chitosan. The removal efficiency between chitosan and pectin did not show a significant difference. In the economic part there is a saving of 846.85 USD while for chitosan there would be a saving of 807.61 USD. The concentration of settleable solids and oils and fats parameters were found to be within the VMA. However, for sulfides, BOD and COD were not met. [Conclusions]: With the use of biopolymers, a considerable decrease in Cr+6 and TSS was achieved, in addition to the fact that both proved to be very efficient. It is also a more economically profitable technology compared to the technology used by the tannery studied; however, in order to meet the requirements of the VMA, some additional technologies must be used.
An overview study on the TL and OSL dosimetry patent processes over time
Authors: Gasparian P. B. R. , Malthez A. L. M. C. , Mariano L. , Campos L. L. , Politano R.
Published: March 2023

Since its discovery, ionizing radiation has been used in many different applications. Materials and methods have been developed to measure and quantify radiation doses.  Thermoluminescence (TL) and Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) are two techniques used for radiation dosimetry. Both TL and OSL are primarily applied in several areas, such as dating of ancient materials, equipment quality control and individual monitoring. One of the parameters to measure the knowledge and development of a technology is the number of patents related to the field. In this work, we established a methodology for patent search on the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) database aiming to review the development of TL and OSL dosimetry over time. We concluded that along with the OSL technique development, the TL technique should continue to be explored in radiation dosimetry.
Advanced terrestrial and celestial missions under spatial grasp technology
Authors: Simon Sapaty Peter
Published: March 2023

The 21st century has an increasing activity in exploration of both Earth and beyond, also growing demands to local and global security, which will require advanced ground, air, and space operations. Many have to be distributed, cooperative, flexible, self-recovering, global goal-oriented, automated up to fully automatic, etc., with massive use of unmanned components. The latest version of high-level Spatial Grasp model and Technology (SGT) will be described which can effectively simulate, create, and manage large evolving infrastructures in both terrestrial and celestial environments. The technology can be readily implemented with communicating copies of its basic Spatial Grasp Language (SGL) installed in millions to billions of copies on Earth and in outer space, allowing us to observe and manage the whole world. Different kinds of space activity with current and planned missions are being investigated for SGT’s applicability, including space surveillance networks, satellite and space communications, satellite Internet access, remote sensing satellites for digital earth, air traffic control, space and ground based instrumentation, ambitious plans to launch hundreds of new small satellites for different purposes, and others. Detailed investigations and concrete examples of effective use of SGT for parallel and distributed simulation, management and control will be provided for the following areas: a) Evolving space economy covering the area from Earth and up to Cislunar space, Mars, and beyond, which may bring significant strategic and global economic benefits for the whole mankind; b) Advanced space robotics with integration of AI technologies into space systems and collective behavior of multiple swarmed satellites; c) Global security on Earth and in space under the Space Development Agency’s Next-Generation Space Architecture, with numerous satellites to be launched and multilayered space infrastructure created; d) Global missile defense, with tracking hypersonic threats from space, also arming satellites with lasers to shoot down missiles. The described global simulation and management approach, with its resultant parallel and distributed simulation and management technology, radically differs from traditional parts-to-whole, agents based, and interoperability principles and models, by offering dynamic holistic structural and spatial solutions which are more compact and powerful than with other approaches.
Computation of locations of possible stepped leader attachment points on an aircraft flying under thunderstorm conditions
Authors: I Lekas Theodore
Published: March 2023

In case of flight in a thunderstorm region, a lightning strike on the aircraft might occur. For better lightning protection, the locations of points on the aircraft skin where a stepped leader can be attached should be delimited. In this paper, the areas of the skin of an aircraft where a stepped leader might be attached are defined through an approach based on the fact that electrostatics and potential flow theory have the same mathematical background. This is done by computing the distribution of the electrostatic field on the metallic parts of the skin of the aircraft due to the ambient electric field. In any area of the skin, where the electric field resulting from the combination of the ambient electric field and the local electric field can ionize the air, attachment points of a stepped leader might exist. The advantage of this approach is a decreased computational time and computer memory needed, as compared to a full Computational Physics approach. The areas of the skin of a generic airliner delimited through this approach, at least qualitatively, are in agreement with photos taken under real thunderstorm conditions.