bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties Analysis of Mild Steel with Different Groove Shape Welded Using GMAW
Authors: Elfallah Saleh Suliman Saleh , Allafi Waleed Almukhtar
Published: May 2023

This paper will discuss the effect of welding variables on the transverse tensile strength and hardness of mild steel welding made by GMAW. The welding variables included are base metal thickness, welding voltage, wire feed speed (WFS), and base metal groove shape. The results show that higher welding transverse tensile strength has obtained higher FZ hardness, while they both increased with decreased welding heat input. E.g., the highest tensile strength (238 MPa) has shown 2162 HV at 768 J/mm heat input, while the lowest tensile strength (120 MPa) of welding made at 2376 J/mm has shown 2108 HV. The FZ of welding made at V groove-shaped base metal has higher hardness and transverse tensile strength, as shown 2159.5 HV and 215 MPa in order when compared to 177 MPa and 2147 HV for X groove-shaped. The hardness at V groove-shaped FZ had an average of 2159.5 HV, while the hardness at X groove-shaped had an average of 2147 HV at 10 mm base metal thickness. The increased hardness of V groove-shaped FZ could be related to the increased stresses at V groove-shaped due to interpass heat input. The intricate physical shape of FZ and HAZ for X groove configuration possibly contributes to the lower transverse tensile strength of welding. A favorably increased hardness and transverse tensile strength are associated with softer and finer ferritic and perlitic grains in FZ and less dendritic perlite structure in HAZ. The Widmanstatten ferrite has contributed to decreased tensile strength.
Investigation on the Effect of Temperature and CO2 Partial Pressure on Corrosion of N80 Tubing Steel in Formation Water Environment
Authors: Wang Zhi Jie , Zhao Yan Lin
Published: May 2023

In the process of oil and gas extraction, N80 steel is used as a common tubing material. CO2 corrosion has become one of the most dangerous problems in its entire life cycle. In this paper, the conditions of different temperatures (90-220 °C) and CO2 partial pressure (0.2-3 MPa) were selected, and the dynamic rotating high-temperature autoclave was used to simulate N80 steel corrosion in formation water environments. The results showed that the corrosion rate of N80 steel gradually decreased with the increase of temperature, and the corrosion rate was the lowest at 150 °C. In addition to this, with the increase of CO2 partial pressure, the corrosion rate first increased and then decreased. The corrosion rate was the highest when the CO2 partial pressure was 0.8 MPa. Through surface analysis techniques (SEM and XRD) and electrochemical tests, it was found that the corrosion resistance of N80 under high temperature and high pressure is closely related to the corrosion product film (FeCO3). The compactness of FeCO3 product film determines the corrosion characteristics of the matrix.
Determination of the Optimized Parameter of the Processing of SUS 304 Sheet Material to the Formability by SPIF Technology
Authors: Phan Nhat Tuan , Vo Tuyen , Dinh Le Cao Ky , Trinh Tien Tho , Dang Van Hai
Published: May 2023

Single-Point Incremental Forming (SPIF) is a flexible technology that can form a wide range of sheet metal products without the need for using punch and die sets. As a relatively cheap and dieless process, this technology is preferable for small and medium customised production. However, the SPIF technology has drawbacks, such as the geometrical inaccuracy and the thickness uniformity of the shaped part. For the purpose of determining the optimal value for the technological parameters from the experimental results when evaluating the forming ability through the strain angle α during the processing of SUS 304 sheet material by SPIF technology. The article has conducted experiments to collect parameters; and experimental planning to establish a mathematical model, determine the optimal value for the parameters of the machining process such as tool diameter, tool feed and tool running speed.
Hydrogels Based on Chitosan and Sodium Alginate with Shape Memory Effect
Authors: Bobrina E.V. , Illarionova N.V. , Salomatina E.V. , Mochalova A.E.
Published: May 2023

Hydrogels based on chitosan derivatives, sodium alginate with acrylamide and acrylic acid were obtained by free radical solution copolymerization method in the presence of ammonium persulfate as initiator and urotropin and N,N methylene bisacrylamide as crosslinking agents. The formation of hydrogels was proved by extraction and IR spectroscopy. It is shown that hydrogels are able to fix the temporary form in iron (III) chloride solutions and reclaim it in solutions of ascorbic acid in less than 2 hours. Hydrogels based on sodium alginate have the best physical-mechanical characteristics compared with chitosan-based - the strength reaches 0.7 MPa and 0.11 MPa, the elasticity modulus is 1.02 MPa and 0.17 MPa at 65% deformation, correspondingly.
Understanding Chemistry of Black Coating in Ancient Bidriware and Attempt to Obtain Similar Coats on Pure Copper and Yellow Brass
Authors: Pravallika J.J.S. , Phaneesh K.R. , Subbarao Bandla , Bhuvaneshwari Akula
Published: May 2023

Bidriware is an ancient metal-based object of Art from South India dating back to 14th Century A.D. The base casting in a Bidriware work is made of a Zn-Cu alloy in the ratio of 16:1 while the inlay work is hemmed with pure silver. The black patination obtained on the surface of Bidriware has been a source of mystery and intrigue for a long time. In this work, this black patination has been investigated to understand the chemistry behind it. The patination in Bidriware is actually a combination of Cupric oxide, Cupric chloride and other minute quantities of cuprous oxide, cupric nitrate and Zinc oxide, which are the results obtained from XRD, SEM, Optical microscopy and XRF analysis. We have further found that similar black patination can be obtained on the surfaces of pure copper and yellow brass. Since black oxide layers have multiple applications in many fields for the property of black body, a novel method, based on ancient knowledge, has been suggested here to obtain similar surfaces on pure copper and yellow brass samples.
Predesign of Rice Straw-Based Cellulose Plant with Steam Explosion Method
Authors: Anugraha Rendra Panca , Dewi Ni Nyoman Kaniya Kumala , Fadzlina Aisyah , Renanto Renanto
Published: May 2023

Cellulose is one of the main components of plants, depending on the plants, the cellulose content can be up to 98%. Cellulose has a wide range of use. It can be used in the food industries, pharmacy, paper, and chemical industries. To extract the cellulose from biomass, the biomass needs to undergo a pre-treatment. This study uses steam explosion pre-treatment as it does not cause hazards to the environment, has low energy cost, and low investment cost. In this pre-treatment, steam will be injected into the biomass until the pressure reach 15 bar, then decline rapidly to make an explosion that causes damage to cellulose crystalline. After that, the process continues to main process, which are washing, and alcohol extraction. Then continued to alcohol recovery. After considering many factors, a cellulose plant from rice straw will be built in 2023 in industrial parks Java Integrated Industrial and Ports Estate or known as JIIPE with a capacity of 370,000 tons/ year. Based on economic analysis, this plant has an internal rate of return of 35.17% and a payout time of 3.98 years. This makes this plant feasible to be built.
Assessment of Thermal Performance of Non-Evaporative Cooling System Assisted with TEC Models at High Temperature Climate
Authors: Jabbar Hussam H. , Al-Tayyar Mohammed A. , Mansoor Taif M. , Ali Saif W. Mohammed
Published: May 2023

In this work, a non-evaporative cooling system is used with an assisted thermoelectric cooler (TEC) devices module. The system was proposed as an alternative cooling system in the high temperature climate to overcome the high energy consumption of traditional air-conditioning compression cycle. The open source Open FOAM V.9 was used to solve the transient effect of 3D model of indirect non-evaporative cooling system. The primary air temperature was set to 319 . While, the air flow was tested under four different air inlet velocities: 0.75 m/s, 1 m/s, 1.25 m/s, and 1.5 m/s. the validation shows good and acceptable agreement in COP values of the system with both experimental and theoretical works from literature within an error between (12.9 % and 9.5 %). Results show that the temperate difference value on a slice through the length of the air channel starts to decrease as velocity increasing. For example, at the last timesteps of each velocity, the temperature difference reaches about (~10 oK) when velocity is (0.75 m/s) starting from the first quarter of the channel, while the same difference in temperature not reached until the half way of the channel from the channel inlet when velocity is (1.5 m/s). Revealing that even though the percentage increase in the velocity is about 50%, the change in the temperature difference value between the inlet and outlet of the channel is about 1.2%. The local Nusselt number shows that steady state heat transfer reached very quickly as the velocity increased (i.e., at 0.75 m/s at 12s while for 1.5 m/s at 4s). Notwithstanding, as the time processed the ( increases for all cases but becomes lower as the velocity increased. .
An Investigation into Burner Configuration Effects on Premixed Flame Characteristics for LPG Diluted with CO2
Authors: Al-Tayyar Mohammed A. , Alkhafaji Dhirgham , Shahad Haroun A K
Published: May 2023

Meeting stringent emission regulations, the demand for environmentally friendly fuels is increasing by the day. Alternative fuel must be burned alongside conventional fuel to increase the availability of such clean energy sources. The current experimental study investigates the characteristics of the premixed LPG flames with CO2 dilution in tube swirling and non-swirling burners. The study including testing the effects of equivalence ratios, φ, (0.8, 1, 1.2, & 1.4), CO2 dilution ratios (0%, 5%, 7.5%, & 10%), and aspect ratio of the non-swirling burner (2, 4, 6, 8, & 10). Two swirling burners with swirl number was tested, namely 0.78 & 0.48. The dilution of CO2 has been observed lengthens the flame, particularly at higher equivalence ratios and/or flow rates since there is more than one influence, they all agree on a similar influence on flame height. The flame shortens clearly when using a swirling burner. Besides, when increasing the swirl number, the flame height increases slightly. Also, the swirling burner divided the flame's inner core into segments equal to the number of swirl vanes, and a flower-shaped flame was generated at low flow rates. The burner’s aspect ratio affects flame height insignificantly. Flame stability limits increase for a higher equivalence ratio and it enhances due to CO2 addition. The LPG-CO2/air mixture has an improved reply to beat flame flashback. The addition of CO2 expands the flow rate of stable flame by about 40% and 25% for φ = 1 and 1.2 respectively. Utilizing a swirling burner improves flame stability greatly. The limit between flashback and blowout increased by about three times as a result of using a swirling burner.
Effect of Crystallization Temperature on the Mechanical and Physical Properties of Solution Cast Polybutylene adipate co-terephthalate/Thermoplastic Starch Films
Authors: Mohanty Lipsita , Mohanty Shyama Prasad
Published: May 2023

Starch-based biodegradable films of polybutylene adipate co-terephthalate (PBAT) have been prepared by the solution casting method. The effect of heating at two different temperatures (80 and 110°C) on the mechanical, optical and morphological properties of these films has been evaluated. The two temperatures were selected based on the crystallization and melting temperatures of PBAT. The blend of PBAT with thermoplastic starch has been prepared by melt mixing technique using two roll mills and then the solution casting method has been followed to prepare the films. Apart from curing at room temperature, the films have been cured at 80°C and 110°C. The tensile strength of the films increased by 110% and 252% for films heated to 80°C and 110°C, respectively. As revealed from spectroscopic analysis, the heating of films has no significant effect on the absorption of light by the films in the UV-visible region. The bonding characteristics of the films have been evaluated using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The lowest water absorption and vapour permeability have been obtained in films cured at 80°C.
A Research on the Separation of Sand out of Cassava Slurry by Cyclone
Authors: Le Khanh Dien , Vu Dinh Hai
Published: May 2023

Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) [1] was invented more than 100 years ago from its first invention in 1908 by Japanese biochemist Kikunae Ikeda, who was trying to isolate and duplicate the savory taste of kombu, an edible seaweed used as a base for many Japanese soups. From 2016, most MSG worldwide is produced by bacterial fermentation in a process similar to making vinegar or yogurt. Sodium is added later, for neutralization. During fermentation, Corynebacterium species, cultured with ammonia and carbohydrates from sugar beets, sugarcane, tapioca (cassava tuber) or molasses, excrete amino acids into a culture broth from which L-glutamate is isolated. In this process, Monosodium Glutamate companies buy cassava [2] pulps from farmers that contain a lot of sand and impurities. In order to increase the productivity with lowest expense, the filtration of sand and solid impurities’ is performed by separation cyclone. In this paper, we study all the measure to design a system of effective pump, cyclone to extract as much as possible all of solid impurities included sand out of cassava slurry before providing to the bacterial fermentation in a process.
Evaluation of energy savings in white winemaking: impact of temperature management combined with specific yeasts choice on required heat dissipation during industrial-scale fermentation
Authors: Giovenzana Valentina , Beghi Roberto , Guidetti Riccardo , Luison Massimiliano , Nardi Tiziana
Published: May 2023

Heat removal significantly impacts energy request in the winery and is related to the temperature control of wine tanks during the fermentation process and the wine maturation phase. The aim of this work was to determine the heat required to be dissipated from wine tanks under different temperature programs, in order to evaluate the potential effects on energy saving during industrial-scale fermentations of Glera and Pinot Grigio wines. Comparative tests were carried out by using properly chosen yeast strains during fermentation at usual winery temperature (15°C or 17-15°C) and 19°C and verifying the quality of the resulting wines in term of sensory, chemical and aromatic features. Fermentation required on average 7.0 Wh dm-3 must at 19°C and 10.3 Wh dm-3 must at 15/17-15°C, reducing energy use by ~32 % at the higher temperature. The tested fermentation protocols, coupled with the use of some specific selected yeast strains, have positive effects on energy saving without compromising sensory, chemical and aromatic profiles of the resulting wine. This work suggests how wineries can adopt a more sustainable winemaking process with low energy consumption, and consequently to propose eco-labeling strategies and price-premium policies.
An Immunohistochemical Analysis for Evaluating the Diagnostic Role of Myofibroblasts in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Using α-Smooth Muscle Actin Antibody
Authors: Gandhi Vaishali , Mahajan Anupama , Kansal Yash Pal
Published: May 2023

Background:

One of the most common types of malignancies affecting the head and neck region is oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Little less is known about the role of myofibroblasts in the pathogenetic process of OSCC. Hence, we assessed the involvement of myofibroblasts in the invasive process of OSCC using α-SMA (α-smooth muscle actin) antibody.

Materials and Methods:

Four study groups in total were organized as follows: 40 cases each of well-differentiated OSCC (WDOSCC), moderately differentiated OSCC (MDOSCC), poorly differentiated OSCC (PDOSCC), and controls make up Group 1, Group 2, Group 3, and Group 4, respectively. The percentage of α-SMA immunopositive cells and staining intensity (A) multiplied together to determine the final staining score (B). The final staining index was produced by multiplying staining intensity (A) by the proportion of immunopositive cells that were stained with α-SMA (B) (FSI). Score Zero was graded as Index Zero by FSI while scores One and Two received an Index Low rating, scores Three and Four an Index Moderate rating, and scores Six and Nine an Index High rating.

Results:

Significantly higher expression of myofibroblast was observed in OSCC group in comparison with the control group. However; no significant difference in myofibroblast expression was observed while comparing different grades of OSCC.

Conclusion:

We recommend using myofibroblasts as a stromal marker to track the severity and development of OSCC.
The Effect of Stem Cells and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor on Cancer Angiogenesis
Authors: Moradi-Gharibvand Nahid , Hashemibeni Batool
Published: May 2023

The formation of new vessels from pre-existing vessels is known as angiogenesis. The process is controlled by stimuli and inhibitors. Angiogenesis starts as a result of the unbalance of these factors, where balance has a tendency toward the stimulus. One of the most important factors promoting angiogenesis is the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). In addition to being involved in vascular regeneration in normal tissues, VEGF also takes part in tumor tissue angiogenesis. These factors affect endothelial cells (ECs) directly as well as differentiate tumor cells from endothelial cells and play an active role in tumor tissue angiogenesis. Angiogenesis partakes in the growth and proliferation of tumor tissue. Because anti-angiogenic treatment is favorable in existing cancer therapies, the potential benefits should be considered. One of these new therapies is cell therapy using mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Research on MSCs remains controversial because much of the earlier research on MSCs has shown their effectiveness, but more recent research has identified harmful effects of these cells. This article reviews the role of stem cells and their secretions in the angiogenesis of tumor tissues.
Application of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols in adrenal surgery: A retrospective, preliminary analysis
Authors: Lelli Giulio , Micalizzi Alessandra , Iossa Angelo , Fassari Alessia , Concistre Antonio , Circosta Francesco , Petramala Luigi , De Angelis Francesco , Letizia Claudio , Cavallaro Giuseppe
Published: May 2023

Background:

The present study was conducted to evaluate the impact of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) pathway in patients undergoing laparoscopic adrenalectomy (LA) for primary and secondary adrenal disease, in reducing the length of primary hospital stay and return to daily activities.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective study was carried out on 61 patients who underwent LA. A total of 32 patients formed the ERAS group. A total of 29 patients received conventional perioperative care and were assigned as the control group. Groups were compared in terms of patient’s characteristics (sex, age, pre-operative diagnosis, side of tumour, tumour size and co-morbidities), post-operative compliance (anaesthesia time, operative time, post-operative stay, post-operative numeric rating scale (NRS) score, analgesic assumption and days to return to daily activities) and post-operative complications.

Results:

No significant differences in anaesthesia time (P = 0.4) and operative time (P = 0.6) were reported. NRS score 24 h postoperatively was significantly lower in the ERAS group (P < 0.05). The analgesic assumption in post-operative period in the ERAS group was lower (P < 0.05). ERAS protocol led to a significantly shorter length of post-operative stay (P < 0.05) and to return to daily activities (P < 0.05). No differences in peri-operative complications were reported.

Discussion:

ERAS protocols seem safe and feasible, potentially improving perioperative outcomes of patients undergoing LA, mainly improving pain control, hospital stay and return to daily activities. Further studies are needed to investigate overall compliance with ERAS protocols and their impact on clinical outcomes.
Prevalence of Hearing Loss Among Newly Diagnosed Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy (Haart) Naive Adult Patients in Port Harcourt
Authors: Ude AE , da Lilly–Tariah OB , Onotai LO , Chinenye S
Published: May 2023

Background:

Numerous studies have reported a relationship between human immune deficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency virus (AIDS) and auditory functions. There is a dearth of information on the prevalence of hearing loss among newly diagnosed HAART naïve adult patients. Aim: This study therefore provides baseline information on the prevalence of hearing loss among newly diagnosed HAART naïve adult patients in Port Harcourt and serves as a reference for the role of HAART in HIV related hearing loss and for future studies.

Patients and Methods:

This is a prospective cross-sectional study involving 260 participants; 130 newly diagnosed and 130 HIV-negative controls aged 18 to 50 years from two centers in Port Harcourt from July, 2018 to January, 2019. Participants were clerked and diagnostic pure tone audiometry was done.

Results:

The rate of hearing loss was observed with Pure Tone Audiometry to be higher (P-value = 0.001) among newly diagnosed HAART naive adult patients 37 (28.5%) in comparison to the control 8 (6.2%). The mean age of all the study participants was 31.80 ± 9.61 years (study group 32.18 ± 10.18 years, control group 31.42 ± 9.12 years). Gender characteristic of participants also showed that males were 46 (35.4%) and females 84 (64.6%) giving a male, female ratio of 1:1.83 among newly diagnosed HAART naive adults, while among the control group there were males 49 (37.7%) and female 81 (62.3%) giving male: female ratio of 1:1.65. The rate of hearing loss at baseline was significantly (P = 0.001) higher among 37 HIV-positive HAART naïve patients (28.5%) compared with 8 control patients (6.2%).

Conclusion:

There was significant proportion of hearing loss among newly diagnosed HAART naive adult patients in Port Harcourt.
Does Smoking Affect the Onset Time of Sensory Blocks or the Duration of Motor Blocks in Parturient Women? A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Gunes HY , Çaliskan DK , Sakar HA , Yuzkat N
Published: May 2023

Background:

In general, smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke is still common worldwide, and the rate of smoking in women of childbearing age is gradually increasing. Cesarean section rates have been increasing in recent years, and anesthesia guidelines recommend regional anesthesia for cesarean sections. Since nicotine and local anesthetics have different effects on ligand-gated ion channels, smoking may affect spinal anesthesia in pregnant women. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of smoking on spinal anesthesia, which is applied for cesarean sections in pregnant women. Patients and

Methods:

After approval from the institution's ethics committee, 100 pregnant women were divided into two groups: current smokers (Group S, smoker) (n = 50) and lifelong nonsmokers (Group NS, nonsmoker) (n = 50). The dose of local anesthetic was adjusted according to the height of each patient. After free cerebrospinal fluid flow was observed, all patients were given 20 μμg of fentanyl in 0.05 mg/cm hyperbaric 0.5% bupivacaine within 10 seconds. The onset of sensory and motor block, the duration of sensory and motor block, and the visual analogue scale (VAS) score were monitored.

Results:

Data from 100 parturient women were investigated. Even though the median time required for the onset of sensory block to occur was significantly higher in Group S (P = 0.019), the duration of motor block was found to be shorter (P = 0.003); however, the duration of sensory block was similar in both groups (P = 0.771). VAS scores were significantly higher in Group S (P = 0.001).

Conclusions:

In conclusion, the pregnant women who smoked had longer motor block onset times, shorter motor block durations, higher VAS scores, and lower patient satisfaction levels.
Perceived Satisfaction and Outcomes from Drug Information Center Services Provided with a Telehealth Approach
Authors: Alhassan GN , Bosnak AS , Hamurtekin E
Published: May 2023

Background and Aim:

Telehealth expansion is dependent on the acceptance and satisfaction of the providers and users of the telehealth service and the impact on the overall health-care system. This study was conducted to evaluate the outcome of pharmacist-led telehealth services and satisfaction of their users.

Materials and Methods:

The telehealth-based drug information center service was an 8-month retrospective, descriptive study that evaluated users' service satisfaction (quality of service), general health outcomes, recommendations, and personal health outcomes by electronically distributing a questionnaire to the users using a Donabedian model approach.

Results:

The feedback response rate was 87.33% (N = 131). The majority of users were 25–34-year-old young adults, while regarding the background status of the enquirers (health-care worker, medical doctor, nurse, patient, phar macist, practitioner/scientist), 35 (26.7%) pharmacists and 34 (26.0%) patients were the most prevalent users. In terms of service satisfaction and health outcome, medical doctors had the highest mean ratings of 4.67 ± 0.76 and 4.95 ± 0.21, respectively. Evaluation of the pharmacist-led telehealth impact was measured with four variables, which showed a statistical significance of P < 0.001 and a highly positive mean rating generally (service satisfaction 4.44 ± 0.83, general health outcome 4.54 ± 0.85, personal health outcome 4.80 ± 0.58, and recommendation 4.85 ± 0.43). The findings also showed that user satisfaction significantly impacted on personal health outcomes (P < 0.001), and that there was an insignificant relationship between user background status and continents.

Conclusions:

The study reveals the significant impact of pharmacist-led telehealth services and the importance of incorporating telehealth services into drug information centers.
Effectiveness of Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty and its Safety on Corneal Endothelium in Patients with Primary Open Angle Glaucoma and Ocular Hypertension
Authors: Gedik Sansal , Gulseren Onur
Published: May 2023

Background and Aim:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and ocular hypertension (OHT), and to assess its effects and safety on corneal endothelial cell morphology.

Patients and Methods:

Forty patients with POAG (15 cases, 23 eyes) and OHT (25 cases, 48 eyes) were prospectively evaluated. All cases underwent pachymetry, goniolens examination, Humphrey Visual Field Test, Optical Coherence Tomography, and Corneal Confocal Microscopy measurements. Patients whose intraocular pressure (IOP) was more than 21 mmHg in POAG and OHT, underwent SLT. SLT treatment was applied to the inferior 180° region of the trabecular meshwork. Central corneal thickness (CCT), IOP, and specular microscopy examinations were taken at the visits before and after the first day, first week, first month, third and sixth months of the SLT procedure. Retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness measurements and visual field tests were performed before and six month post-SLT. Results of the pre-SLT and post-SLT measurements were compared and a P value of lower than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The results of IOP measurements at first week, first month, third, and sixth month post-SLT were significantly lower than the results before and post-SLT first day. No significant difference was found between the results of initial and final measurements of CCT and specular microscopic corneal endothelial cell morphology evaluation. There was no statistically significant difference between the results of initial and final measurements for RNFL thickness and the results of the visual field tests.

Conclusion:

SLT is an effective treatment modality for reducing IOP in patients with POAG and OHT and is also a safe procedure in terms of the entirety of corneal endothelial cell morphology.
An unusual coexistence of iris mammillations and optic disc pit with keratoconus: A case report and literature review
Authors: Alrawashdeh Hamzeh Mohammad
Published: May 2023

Iris mammillations are distinctive uniform nipple-like elevations that cover the anterior surface of the iris partially or totally. It is a rare finding and may coexist with other ocular and extraocular manifestations. Optic nerve pit (ONP), also known as optic disc pit (ODP) or optic hole, is a congenital defect resulting from the failure of fetal fissure closure during the embryonic development. It belongs to the congenital cavitary anomalies spectrum. This case presents a 19-year-old female patient who complained of a gradual decrease in visual acuity in both eyes for 4 years. Slit-lamp and fundus examinations revealed iris mammillations and ODP in the left eye. Corneal topography revealed bilateral keratoconus, which was managed with cross-linking. Iris mammillations and ODP are poorly understood ocular anomalies that are not reported frequently and have never been reported previously both combined with keratoconus. Thus, ophthalmologists should be aware of these conditions, their differential diagnosis, and their possible association with other disorders. This is the first reported case of the combined coexistence of iris mammillations and ODP with keratoconus.
Orbital floor fractures in Taiwan: A 10-year nationwide population-based study
Authors: Lin Yu-Ching , Yim Cindi K. , Wu Albert Y. , Hwang De-Kuang
Published: May 2023

PURPOSE:

To characterize the epidemiology, associated complications, and risk factors of orbital floor fractures in a nationwide longitudinal health insurance database.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Claims data from a million randomly selected registered residents from the Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database were analyzed between 2001 and 2011 as part of a retrospective cohort review. Patients were identified using the International Classification of Disease-9 diagnosis codes for orbital floor fracture (closed: 802.6; open: 802.7). The cases were categorized as surgical or nonsurgical based on the procedure codes and compared statistically.

RESULTS:

From 2001 to 2011, 663 patients were diagnosed with orbital floor fractures out of a total population at risk of 9,836,431 person-years (average incidence: 6.78 persons/100,000/year) with overall increasing incidence. Surgical treatments were performed in 213 (32%) patients. Patients who received surgical treatment were younger than those who did not (mean age 25.3 ± 13.6 years vs. 34.2 ± 18.6 years, P < 0.001). The diagnosis with diplopia was a significantly associated factor for surgical treatment (2.2% in nonsurgery group vs. 6.6% in surgery group, P = 0.007). Male gender (adjusted hazard ratios [aHR] = 2.1, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.79–2.49) and low monthly income (aHR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.16–2.67) were the risk factors for orbital floor fracture.

CONCLUSION:

The incidence of orbital floor fractures increased in the Taiwanese population between 2001 and 2011. Men and low income patients were at increased risk of orbital floor fracture. More research is necessary to clarify what factors are driving the escalating incidence of orbital fractures in this national population.
Artificial intelligence and digital solutions for myopia
Authors: Li Yong , Yip Michelle Y. T. , Ting Daniel S. W. , Ang Marcus
Published: May 2023

Myopia as an uncorrected visual impairment is recognized as a global public health issue with an increasing burden on health-care systems. Moreover, high myopia increases one’s risk of developing pathologic myopia, which can lead to irreversible visual impairment. Thus, increased resources are needed for the early identification of complications, timely intervention to prevent myopia progression, and treatment of complications. Emerging artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies may have the potential to tackle these unmet needs through automated detection for screening and risk stratification, individualized prediction, and prognostication of myopia progression. AI applications in myopia for children and adults have been developed for the detection, diagnosis, and prediction of progression. Novel AI technologies, including multimodal AI, explainable AI, federated learning, automated machine learning, and blockchain, may further improve prediction performance, safety, accessibility, and also circumvent concerns of explainability. Digital technology advancements include digital therapeutics, self-monitoring devices, virtual reality or augmented reality technology, and wearable devices – which provide possible avenues for monitoring myopia progression and control. However, there are challenges in the implementation of these technologies, which include requirements for specific infrastructure and resources, demonstrating clinically acceptable performance and safety of data management. Nonetheless, this remains an evolving field with the potential to address the growing global burden of myopia.
Antisocial Behavior Identification from Twitter Feeds Using Traditional Machine Learning Algorithms and Deep Learning.
Authors: Singh Ravinder , Subramani Sudha , Du Jiahua , Zhang Yanchun , Wang Hua , Miao Yuan , Ahmed Khandakar
Published: May 2023

Antisocial behavior (ASB) is one of the ten personality disorders included in ‘The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and falls in the same cluster as Borderline Personality Disorder, Histrionic Personality Disorder, and Narcissistic Personality Disorder. It is a prevalent pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others. Online antisocial behavior is a social problem and a public health threat. An act of ASB might be fun for a perpetrator; however, it can drive a victim into depression, self-confinement, low self-esteem, anxiety, anger, and suicidal ideation. Online platforms such as Twitter and Reddit can sometimes become breeding grounds for such behavior by allowing people suffering from ASB disorder to manifest their behavior online freely. In this paper, we propose a proactive approach based on natural language processing and deep learning that can enable online platforms to actively look for the signs of antisocial behavior and intervene before it gets out of control. By actively searching for such behavior, social media sites can prevent dire situations leading to someone committing suicide.
Spatial Distribution of Gestational Syphilis in Brazil: Socioeconomic and Health Services Inequalities
Authors: da Costa Dantas Janmilli , Marinho Cristiane da Silva Ramos , Pinheiro Yago Tavares , Fernandes Ferreira Maria Ângela , Rosendo da Silva Richardson Augusto
Published: May 2023

We aimed to analyze the spatial distribution of gestational syphilis from 2008 to 2018 in Brazil and identify correlations with socioeconomic and health-care aspects. This ecological study used municipalities of Brazil as the unit of analysis. Data collection took place between June and July 2021. Data were extracted for 2008 to 2018, and information on the epidemic in animals in the country was obtained from data records. The gestational syphilis detection rate was the dependent variable, and the independent variables were the Municipal Human Development Index, the proportion of doctors per inhabitant in primary health care (PHC), and the percentage of PHC coverage. The data went through an aggregation process in 482 immediate regions of urban articulation. The global Moran’s I index and the local spatial correlation indicator detected territorial clusters using GeoDa software. The gestational syphilis detection rate was distributed unevenly in the immediate regions of urban articulation between 2008 and 2018, and presented a negative spatial correlation with the Municipal Human Development Index (Moran’s I = −0.243, P ≤ 0.05), the percentage of PHC coverage (Moran’s I = −0.163, P ≤ 0.05), and the proportion of doctors per inhabitants in PHC (Moran’s I = −0.164, P ≤ 0.05). Socioeconomic inequalities, mainly related to the availability of human resources and access to health services, are correlated with the spatial distribution of gestational syphilis in Brazil. Investments in social policies and strengthening of PHC are essential for controlling gestational syphilis.
Lessons Learned from the Design, Construction, and Commissioning of a Retrofitted Arthropod Containment Level 3 Insectary
Authors: Lauer Erin , Kim Kelly N. , Dettmann Robert A. , Fleming Adam E. J. , Powell Gregory L. , Rice Amanda D. , Scarpellini Giorgio , Casagrande Rocco , Gillum David R.
Published: May 2023

Arthropods are vectors for many pathogens that significantly harm human and animal health globally, and research into vector-borne diseases is of critical public health importance. Arthropods present unique risks for containment, and therefore insectary facilities are essential to the safe handling of arthropod-borne hazards. In 2018, the School of Life Sciences at Arizona State University (ASU) began the process to build a level 3 arthropod containment (ACL-3) facility. Even with the COVID-19 pandemic, it took more than 4 years for the insectary to be granted a Certificate of Occupancy. At the request of the ASU Environmental Health and Safety team, Gryphon Scientific, an independent team with biosafety and biological research expertise, studied the project lifecycle through the design, construction, and commissioning of the ACL-3 facility with the goal of identifying lessons learned from the delayed timeline. These lessons learned convey insight into best practices for assessing potential facility sites, anticipating challenges with retrofitted construction, preparing for commissioning, equipping the project team with necessary expertise and expectations, and supplementing the gaps in available containment guidance. Several unique mitigations designed by the ASU team to address research risks not specifically addressed in the American Committee of Medical Entomology Arthropod Containment Guidelines are also described. Completion of the ACL-3 insectary at ASU was delayed, but the team thoroughly assessed potential risks and enabled appropriate practices for the safe handling of arthropod vectors. These efforts will enhance future ACL-3 construction by helping to avoid similar setbacks and streamlining progress from concept to operation.
Self-Reported Personal Hygiene Practice and Associated Factors among Prison Inmates in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia: An Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Engdaw Garedew Tadege , Masresha Addisu Genene , Tesfaye Amensisa Hailu
Published: May 2023

The growing prevalence of communicable diseases in prison is significantly attributed to poor hygiene practices and insufficient sanitary conditions. The aim of this study was to assess self-reported personal hygiene practice and its associated factors among prison inmates in Gondar, northwest Ethiopia. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 1, 2018, to February 30, 2019. Data were gathered using a structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire and observational checklists. The mean age of the inmates was 36 years (±12.4) and the mean months spent in prison was 98.2 ± 15.4 months. The overall adherence to good personal hygiene practices among Gondar City Prison inmates was 54.3%, with a 95% CI of (49.4, 59.1). The number of prisoners per cell [adjusted odds ratio (AOR), 0.31; 95% CI, (0.16, 0.62)], daily water consumption [AOR, 6.78; 95% CI, (2.84, 16.15)], and good knowledge (AOR, 1.50; 95% CI, (1.23, 5.61)] were found to be significant predictors of personal hygiene practice among prison inmates. More than half of the study participants had good personal hygiene practices. Knowledge, daily water consumption, and the number of prisoners per cell were all found to be significantly associated with prisoners’ personal hygiene practices. Improving the availability of water would be the best alternative way to improve the personal hygiene practices of the prisoners. Furthermore, prison inmates should be educated on proper hygiene measures and personal cleanliness to prevent the transmission of communicable diseases.
Case Report: Multiple Organ Failure Caused by Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome
Authors: Wang Rui , Zhao Xiang-yang , Liu Xiao-jun , Zhang Miao , Sun Yan-ting , Ning Xiao , Xu Jian , Bu Chan-yuan
Published: May 2023

Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), a natural epidemic disease caused by hantavirus (HV), is one of the viral diseases that pose a major threat to our health. Considering the increasing number of atypical-onset cases reported in some countries, it is important to be familiar with the symptoms of HFRS and the signs of HV infection. This report describes the case of a 55-year-old man with complaints of fever, vomiting, and diarrhea. His symptoms showed no significant improvement after routine anti-infective, antipyretic, and other symptomatic supportive treatments administered at a local clinic. During these treatments, the patient had progressive oliguria; after 3 days, he also developed multiple organ failures, such as the liver and kidney, and was examined for positive serum IgM antibodies to hemorrhagic fever during treatment at our hospital. The patient was finally diagnosed with HFRS followed by multiple organ failure. After antiviral therapy, including ribavirin, piperacillin, and tazobactam, continuous renal replacement therapy, fluid metabolism adjustment, and related supportive therapy were administered, which improved his liver and kidney function. He was discharged on the 25th day after hospitalization. It is difficult to manage patients who develop multiple organ failure after HFRS. Moreover, this condition is rare in clinical settings, with fever being the initial indication. For diseases with unknown origin such as refractory fever and diarrhea, it is crucial to differentiate them from common pathogenic infection and HV infections to provide timely treatment that improves the prognosis of patients.
Karl Jaspers and the Eastern Orthodox View of Transcendence: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: Ndlovu Siphiwe , Nicolaides Angelo
Published: May 2023

Karl Jaspers (1883–1969) was an important philosopher and thinker chiefly in the areas of epistemology, existentialism, the philosophy of religion, and also political theory amongst others. However, his ideas have to a very large degree become obscured over the years. This notwithstanding, among his important contributions, Jaspers articulated the notion that individuals do not cognize objects but explain and objectify their being as often unique thinkers and consequently they become themselves. It is a question of delineating and analysing the structure of Being, as such, which leads to ultimate illumination. Humanity may understand the mechanical operations of our corporeal world through science, but it is only philosophy that is proficient in giving insights into the human condition and the individual being who, in turn, has a capacity to exercise freedom. This article considers Jaspers’ ideas on transcendence and how they differ from mainline Eastern Orthodoxy. It argues that only a person whose entire being has been transformed by faith has some access to truth. It is further advanced that, faith is a priori philosophical and not religious issue because it is ultimately a personal and thus subjective matter and has no support in authority. Faith is thus not to be viewed as an objective and communicable subjugator of reason. It is through suffering and a range of experiences and ultimately the reconning with death, that one encounters ultimate situations wherein the Transcendent God is encountered. God is not an object and can be known and described only through myths and symbols or ciphers. The Transcendent Being (God) is symbolically expressed in religion. Jaspers view of Being in its various facets is in opposition to Eastern Orthodox Christian views which is what this work interrogates to a limited extent. The Orthodox doctrine of God perceives God as a Transcendent Being in each of the material and immaterial domains of His Creation.
Study of the passivation of defects in the perovskite cell: application to Sahelian climate conditions
Authors: Anate Essodossomondom , Kata N’Detigma , Samah Hodo-Abalo , Maiga Amadou Seidou
Published: May 2023

This article is devoted to the study of the performance of the photovoltaic cell based on perovskite (MAPbI3) in real conditions of sub-Saharan Africa. A model of this cell has been made taking into account the integration of defects at the interfaces. After a study of the sensitivity of these defects, a passivation layer was introduced at the interface to improve the performance of the cell. The influence of temperature and irradiance on the performance of perovskite cells was studied on the one hand with defects at the interfaces and on the other hand with the integration of a passivation layer of defects. The results show a decrease of the performance ratio for the non-passivated cell due to the defects present at the interfaces of the said cell. The models developed under SCAPS-1D were validated by applying it to a real module found in the literature under the same conditions. The performance calculation shows a satisfactory qualitative and quantitative agreement. The results relative to the performance ratios obtained for the simulated models show that perovskite is on the right track for a potential future candidacy to the most suitable technologies for sub-Saharan Africa.
Bordeline Cultural Practices in Modern Society: the Anthropo-Creating Function
Authors: Nefedova Ludmila K. , Rudi Amina Sh. , Kordas Olga M.
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this article is to examine borderline cultural practices that aid in the development of a modern person. We focus on the practices of consumption and childhood, which take shape at the frontier of global and local cultures, to explore their anthropo-creating function. We have identified two groups of cultural practices: socializing and individualizing, and we have synthesized subjective characteristics of cultural practices that best fulfill the function of creating a person. The article also presents a mechanism for developing consumer behavioral strategies that are not determined solely by the logic of the historical process of the existence of local cultures. It highlights the inclusive potential of global culture, which recognizes significant differences among peoples in their ideas about the world, value systems, and diverse trends and outcomes of historical development. Parenting practices also implement the principle of inclusiveness.