bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of depression among older people in Iraq
Authors: Ahmed Ali Jadoo Saad , Ali Mustafa Al-Samarrai Mustafa , Hassan Alhusseiny Adil , Torun Perihan , Saadi Mohammed Ahmed , Ibrahim Latif Ismail
Published: May 2024

Background: The global prevalence of mental disorders, including depression, has steadily increased. Objective: To identifying the prevalence rate of depression and the related predictors among old-age people in Iraq. Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from August to November 2021. A random sampling technique was employed to gather information from the old age patients during their routine visits to outpatient clinic of three public hospitals (Baquba, Ramadi, Samarra), in Iraq. Data collection involved the utilization of a semi-structured questionnaire incorporating the validated Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-30) administered through face-to-face interviews. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to examine the relationships between variables in the study. SPSS version 16 was utilized for data analysis, with statistical significance set at a threshold below 0.05. Results: Data of 344 old-age respondents (range 60-81 years) with a mean age of 75.15 (± 7.52) years have undergone final analysis. More than half were males (50.6%), married (62.2%), ranked themselves as unhealthy (72.4%), physically inactive (70.6%), and financially dependent (71.8%). The overall prevalence of depression was 74.4%. Logistic regression revealed significant associations: elderly females had 3.805 times higher risk (P<0.001,95% CI: 1.999 to 5.241), unhealthy individuals had 2.379 times (P<0.001, 95% CI 1.657 to 3.415), limited activities of daily living (ADL) had 2.650 times (P =0.001, 95% CI: 1.076 to 3.902), and those lacking family support had1.799 times (P = 0.003, 95% CI: 1.040 to 3.746) than their counterparts. Conclusion: High depression rates and multiple risk factors necessitate the urgent need for health and political intervention to support patients and promote greater social participation. Keywords: Depression, Old Age, ADL, Prevalence, Risk Factors, Logistic Regression, Iraq
Muscle Activity and Kinematics During Three Hamstring Strengthening Exercises Compared to Sprinting: A Cross-Sectional Study.
Authors: Jorge Adelso , Lichtenstein Eric , Faude Oliver , Roth Ralf
Published: May 2024

Background

During sprinting, the biceps femoris long head predominantly gets injured, while hamstring strengthening exercises predominantly activate the semitendinosus more effectively. Understanding how joint dominance influences hamstring activity may offer clarity on appropriate exercise selection in strengthening programs.

Purpose

This study compared three hip-dominant hamstring exercises: the rocker, perpetuum mobile fast and slow (PMfast and PMslow) and the Nordic Hamstring exercise (NHE) on their potential to simulate sprint-like activity and kinematics.

Methods

Muscle activity of the posterior kinetic chain (biceps femoris, semitendinosus, gluteus maximus, and medial gastrocnemius) was measured with surface electromyography (sEMG) during the exercises and treadmill running at 75% of the individual maximal sprint velocity in male athletes. sEMG data were normalized to maximal sprinting. 3D-motion capture was employed to assess hip and knee angles.

Results

Eight male athletes were included (age: 24.0 years ± SD 2.9; body mass: 76.8 kg ± 7.7; height: 1.79 m ± 0.08). Greater activity of the hamstrings occurred during the explosive exercises ranging from 63.9% [95%CI: 56.3-71.5%] (rocker) to 49.0% [95%CI: 40.4-57.6%] (PMfast) vs. 34.0% [95%CI: 29.1-38.9%] (NHE) to 32.1% [95%CI: 26.9-37.3%] (PMslow). The rocker showed greatest hamstring and gluteus maximus activity. Biceps femoris consistently showed greater activity than the semitendinosus across all exercises in peak (mean difference: 0.16, [95%CI: 0.07-0.26]) and average (mean difference: 0.06, [95%CI: 0.01-0.11]) activity. PMfast, PMslow and NHE demonstrated less hip flexion angle at peak hamstring activity than the rocker and high-speed running and every exercise showed less hamstring elongation stress than during high-speed running.

Discussion

Hamstring activity is comparable to high-intensity treadmill running for NHE and PMslow, and greater for the rocker and PMfast. Gluteus maximus activity varied, with the rocker and PMfast showing greater activity than in sprinting. All examined exercises demonstrated their peak activity at short hamstring muscle length.

Level of evidence

3b
Triceps Tendon Avulsion in a Soldier: A Case Report
Authors: Chorba Rita , Hu Collin , Feldtmann Jess
Published: May 2024

Background

Clinical assessment of triceps brachii tendon tears is challenging, and conventional imaging methods have limitations. Timely surgical referral is important in high-grade tears to maximize patient outcomes, and musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSK US) can be used at the time of clinical examination to identify such injuries requiring advanced imaging and orthopedic referral.

Hypothesis/Purpose

The purpose of this case report is to describe how MSK US was used to facilitate advanced imaging and timely orthopedic referral for a patient presenting to a physical therapist with a high-grade triceps tendon avulsion.

Study Design

Case Report

Case Description

A 35-year-old male soldier presented to a direct access sports physical therapist with acute-on-chronic right elbow pain. Physical examination and MSK US were used to identify a high-grade partial triceps brachii tendon tear. The MSK US findings informed the physical therapist’s decision-making process to refer the subject for timely advanced imaging studies as well as referral to an orthopedic physician.

Outcomes

A high-grade partial triceps tendon avulsion was confirmed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The subject was then seen by an orthopedic surgeon and underwent surgical repair of the tendon within the recommended three-week timeframe for optimal outcomes. The subject completed a post-operative rehabilitation program and returned to full physical and occupational activities.

Conclusion

MSK US can assist in the diagnosis of challenging triceps tendon injuries, facilitating timely advanced imaging and orthopedic referrals for high-grade injuries to optimize patient outcomes.

Level of Evidence

5
Going for Gold: New Zealand houses in the 60s through the veil of the NZIA Bronze Medals
Authors: McCarthy Christine
Published: May 2024

In 1926 the New Zealand Institute of Architects instituted a Gold, Silver, Bronze Medal system to recognise its members' work. By the 1960s, the Bronze Medal recognised the best designed single-unit house. The award system appears to have been a strict one, the Institute feeling no obligation to award the Bronze Medal in 1962, 1964 and 1969. This paper looks at the seven houses recognised by the Bronze Award in the 1960s.
Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM) 2.0: Account of Business and Financial Risk
Authors: Brusov P. N. , Filatova T. V. , Kulik V. L.
Published: May 2024

The famous Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM), widely used in practice, takes into account only the business risk associated with investments in a specific company [not the entire market (or industry)]. In practice, most listing companies use debt financing and operate at a non-zero leverage level. This means that the financial risk associated with the use of debt financing, along with business risk, must be taken into account. The purpose of this paper is to simultaneously account for business and financial risk. We combined the CAPM theory and the Modigliani-Miller (MM) theory, which is the perpetual limit of the BFO (Brusov-Filatova-Orekhova) theory. The article shows that R. Hamada’s attempt to take into account both business and financial risks has proved unsustainable, and the formulas he obtained, widely used in practice, are incorrect. The paper outlines the correct formulae that made it possible to generalize CAPM for the first time, taking into account both business and financial risk. The application of the new CAPM 2.0 model to a number of companies is considered and the difference between the results obtained within the framework of CAPM 2.0 and CAPM is demonstrated. CAPM is one of the main models [along with APT (arbitrage pricing theory) and WACC] within the income approach to business valuation. This significantly increases the value of the developed CAPM 2.0 approach, which can significantly improve the accuracy of the assessment.
Risk Factor Analysis and Sustainability Assessment of AIC Development under Sanctions
Authors: Chatkina E. , Kazakova N. A.
Published: May 2024

The sustainable development of the agro-industrial complex is a priority task and a factor in ensuring food security in Russia. The relevance of the study is due to the lack of transparency and limited existing ratings of agribusiness companies, the lack of consideration of the impact of sanctions, their consequences and the ability of companies to promptly reconfigure their business models. In this regard, the purpose of the study was to form a methodology for assessing the sustainability of the development of agribusiness companies in modern conditions. The presented methodology is based on the principles of prioritizing the impact of sustainable development criteria on competitive opportunities; availability of accessible information, its regularity and understandability for users; using the risk factor approach as a navigator for assessing competitive positions. The research methodology is based on an industry approach, followed by an assessment of the impact of identified risk factors on trends in production indicators, market share dynamics, efficiency of operating, financial and investment activities, and business development rates. To visualize the results, the method of constructing competitiveness polygons was used, which provides a clear assessment of the competitive advantages and management abilities of companies to quickly adapt to changing market conditions. The scientific novelty of the study lies in the development of a situational approach to assessing the sustainability of the development of agribusiness companies, based on the impact of identified industry risk factors on business performance. Approbation of the methodology was carried out on the companies, which are participants in the credit ratings for the agro-industrial complex sector of national rating agencies accredited by the Bank of Russia. The theoretical significance of the study lies in the development and adaptation of the methodology of sectoral analysis to the specifics and needs of the agro-industrial complex for the purpose of its sustainable development. The practical results are of value to the Ministry of Agriculture and private investors interested in an independent assessment of companies in order to minimize the risks of investing in sustainable development projects.
Evolution of COVID-19 Impact on Russian Stock Market: Panic Effect
Authors: Egorova Yu. V. , Nepp A. A. , Tishchenko I. I.
Published: May 2024

Over the past few years, many research papers have referred to stock market volatility in relation to investor attention and sentiment and our article adds to the current literature on financial market reactions to the economic consequences of COVID-19. An event such as an outbreak of an infectious disease causes a negative change in investor sentiment, which strongly influences their investment decisions and, consequently, stock market prices. The subject of the study is the mutual influence of stock market characteristics and market sentiment, during a COVID-19 pandemic crisis. The purpose of the study is to provide empirical support for the hypothesis of indirect impact of uncertainty and panic under the COVID-19 pandemic on the dynamics of the stock market in Russia. The World Health Organization and experts forecast that the world will face more than one crisis related to the spread of infectious diseases in the future, so understanding the mechanisms of mutual influence of sentiment and financial markets remains relevant. In this study, we take a novel approach to deriving an indicator for panic that has not been used before. We perform econometric modeling using a Vector Autoregressive Model (VAR) and a Vector Error Correction Model (VECM), which allows us to describe in the model not only the long-term equilibrium but also the dynamics towards it. As a result, we got consistent and efficient estimates of the long-term and short-term effects of panic and mortality rates on the volatility of the RTS stock index and found that the market reaction to COVID-19 changed as the pandemic spread: the effects of uncertainty and panic, while having a significant impact at the beginning of the crisis, faded away. The conclusions obtained in the analysis of the Russian stock market dynamics coincide with those obtained by other authors in their analysis of markets in other countries over a similar period.
Circular Economy Goals, Large Capitalisation, and ESG Funds: An Investment Perspective
Authors: Anvekar R. , Patil S.
Published: May 2024

In the context of an obvious 32% growth, the relationship between the circular economy, risks and returns is becoming increasingly relevant. ESG indicators are increasingly pivotal in global investment decisions. The purpose of the study is to demonstrate that ESG-mandated companies are more likely to yield sustainable long-term performance, advocating for investors to consider ESG-based mutual fund schemes. The research evaluates the performance of the top 10 high-capitalization and ESG equity funds, comparing them to the Nifty-50 benchmark index using various performance metrics. An increasing trend in ESG-compliant investing is observed, contributing to the circular economy. It was concluded that even post-risk adjustment, ESG funds remain lucrative, offering sound long-term returns. Statistically significant returns are noted in both funds and index. The study recommends companies revise policies towards ESG compliance and investors kindness ESG funds. The novelty of the study is that it gives a new insight into the performance of two different categories of funds, how well circular economy strategies can contain investment risk and provide risk-adjusted returns.
Perceived Enjoyment and Money Attitude on Intention to Subscribe of Streaming Service Platform: The Case from Makassar Region, Indonesia
Authors: Pratiwi N. , Sudiro A. , Rohman F. , Hussein A. S.
Published: May 2024

The COVID pandemic, which broke out at the end of 2019, caused many changes in human life. Restrictions on access to entertainment and socializing activities have an impact on all aspects of life, but on the other hand, the business side of online streaming service platforms that show favorite movies and series benefits from this pandemic. The purpose of the study is to analyze the influence of perceived enjoyment and attitude toward money on intentions to subscribe to online streaming platforms. The study was conducted in Makassar, one of the metropolitan cities in Indonesia. The sample in this study was 151 people. Data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire, and the data then analyzed using PLS analytical tools. The results showed that perceived enjoyment and attitude toward money have a significant effect on the subscription intentions of online streaming platforms.
Does Institutional Setting Contribute to the Public Debt — Income Inequality Relationship in Developing Economies?
Authors: Nguyen V. B.
Published: May 2024

In the context of increasing globalization, income inequality is one severe problem in several countries because it widens the income gap between the rich and the poor, which leads to social instability. Narrowing this gap has become one of the main agendas in many developing countries to satisfy the millennium goals proposed by the United Nations. Meanwhile, government expenditure is one crucial fiscal instrument as it contributes significantly to running the economy and overcoming economic cyclicality. In particular, governance/institutional can positively adjust the public debt — income inequality relationship in developing economies. The purpose of the study to identify the impact of institutional quality, public debt and their interaction on income inequality on a balanced data panel of 34 developing economies for the period 2002–2020. For monitoring endogenous problems and serial autocorrelation in empirical equations, two-step and one-step system GMM (Generalized Method of Moments) assessments are used. The results from the study show that public debt and the quality of institutions increase income inequality, but their interaction narrows it. These results seem to be counter-intuitive. Besides, education enhances income inequality in these economies. The results of the study provide some policy recommendations for reducing the inequalities in society through public debt and the quality of institutions in developing economies. Accordingly, governments in developing economies should use spending financed by public debt to support low-income individuals through social transfers throughout economic development. Importantly, they should spend more on education and health to help the poor improve their skills and knowledge, narrowing the income difference between the rich and the poor. In particular, they should be prudent in controlling and managing public debt to avoid a public debt crisis and social instability.
Methods of Analysis the Motives for Legal Tax Behavior
Authors: Pinskaya M. R. , Tikhonova A. V.
Published: May 2024

The paper is devoted to improving the methodology for conducting laboratory experiments to study the actions of taxpayers. We note that the use of standard economic methods is not enough to study citizens’ behavioral motives (in particular, the desire to evade their duties). The authors analyzed experimental methods of studying tax evasion, carried out their comparative characteristics and identified the problems of their implementation in practice. Based on the analysis of the results of previous experiments, we proved that involving students as interviewers enables us to identify and evaluate the behaviour trends of taxpayers. The research methodology is based on the use of tools and methods of comparative analysis, tabular and graphical methods of data visualization. In particular, the comparative characteristics of the form factor surveys (vignette with one profile, vignette with a double profile, single-profile association, conjugate profile, conjugate paired profile) made it possible to identify as a priority for use in laboratory tax experiments the conjugate paired profile in the form of a survey. In the resulting part of the paper, we presented the disadvantages of laboratory experiments and suggested possible options for their solution, which is an element of scientific novelty and the significance of the research’ results.
Effectiveness of Tax Benefits for Information Technology Organizations in Russia
Authors: Kolotovkin I. V. , Polezharova L. V.
Published: May 2024

The subject of the study is a set of measures of tax incentives for the information technology industry in the Russian Federation — “tax maneuver in IT”, launched from the beginning of 2021. The purpose of the study is to identify and qualitatively assess the stimulating effect of the tax maneuver in IT, which is expressed in changes in key financial and natural performance indicators of IT industry organizations, and to develop proposals on ways of tax incentives for the development of the industry. The article describes the distortion of the aggregate tax reporting characterizing the IT industry, which takes into account not only recently established IT organizations, but also “nominal” separates from large organizations IT subdivisions or technically clarified classification code, making it inappropriate to use such reporting as a basis for analysis and reliable conclusions. Based on the data of the public financial statements of selected sample from the top-100 Russian IT organizations, the article analyzes the dynamics of financial indicators of their activities, among which are the profiles of profiles, operating profit, net profit, investment in basic assets, the number of staff, the amount of products supplied for export, the capitalization of the company. The observation was conducted for 2017– 2022 and covers the periods both before and during the engagement of tax benefits. A comparative study was carried out with similar indicators of the organizations of the “control group”, which included IT companies operating in other countries that were not affected by such tax benefits. According to the results of the study, small or no extra growth was observed in key financial indicators of IT organizations due to the tax maneuver compared with the “pre-maneuver” period and compared with the indicators of the control group. It is concluded that there is no evidence of a significant impact of the tax maneuver on the development of the IT industry in Russia. We proposed dismantling of the “maneuver” and transition, based on the Chinese and some EU countries approaches, to taxation of the qualified profit. The latter is the profit of Russian and foreign IT developers from the localization of IT development and value creation in Russia. The achievable effective rate is 2.5%.
Nietzschovo přesazení člověka zpět do přírody jako počátek postantropocentrismu
Authors: Vodička Marek
Published: May 2024

Článek reaguje na monografii Homo Natura: Nietzsche, Philosophical Anthropology and Biopolitics (2020) současné akademičky Vanessy Lemmové zabývající se Nietzschovým úkolem „přesadit člověka zpět do přírody“, tzn. chápat jej jako bytost veskrze imanentní přírodě. Reakce směřuje především na jednu z hlavních tezí knihy, podle níž tato Nietzschova snaha otevírá možnost nového, postantropocentrického pohledu na člověka a jeho vztahu k přírodě – pohledu, v jehož centru zájmu již nestojí člověk, nýbrž život sám, resp. kontinuum života, jež se ztělesňuje v lidském druhu a jehož je lidský druh rovnocennou součástí po boku ostatních organismů. Nietzschova myšlenka o homo natura podle Lemmové předznamenává myšlení současného posthumanismu vyznačujícího se právě snahou vytvořit takový pohled na člověka a jeho vztah k přírodě, který bybyl vhodným teoretickým rámcem pro sebepojetí člověka v epoše antropocénu. Článek tuto tezi doplňuje o Heideggerovu interpretaci Nietzschovy myšlenky nadčlověka podanou v sérii přednášek Co znamená myslet?, v níž je nadčlověk chápán jako ekologický ideál lidstva schopného zodpovědně převzít moc plynoucí z technického přetváření země. Cílem článku je ukázat, že, v souladu s interpretacemi Lemmové a Heideggera, u Nietzscheho lze nalézt způsob, jak by se lidstvo mohlo produktivně vyrovnat s realitou antropocénu, a to skrze přechod od „posledního člověka“ k „nadčlověku“, kde přechod k „nadčlověku“ je chápán jako idea nastolení nového vztahu mezi lidmi a přírodou, resp. mezi lidmi a zemí.
VISUAL DATA COMPUTER PROCESSING IN EDUCATIONAL DIY PROJECTS
Authors: Vynnyk Oleksandr , Butyrina Yevheniia , Kratenko Roman
Published: May 2024

The software tools for processing visual data in an educational chemical experiment, the experience of their usage, and a number of DIY (Do it yourself) projects developed on their basis were analyzed. Particular attention was paid to the role of self-made devices during the forced online education caused by COVID-19 and the full-scale war in Ukraine.

The results of the development of the software tool ColorKit, which is being developed at the Department of Physics and Chemistry of H.S. Skovoroda Kharkiv National Pedagogical University are presented. The basic principles were covered, the interface was described, the main functions of the application and their areas of usage were given. The principle of operation of the modules: "Spectrophotometer", "Colorimeter", "Refractometer", "Polarimeter" was characterized. The features of the structure of optical computer devices for physico-chemical analysis developed by teachers, students of higher education and students, members of the Academy of Medical Sciences were considered, and the results of their testing were highlighted.

The design of an absorption spectrophotometer based on a reflective diffraction grating made from a DVD disc was described; a new method of its calibration using a diamond green solution was proposed. The operating model was tested and it was established that the accuracy of the device was sufficient for demonstration and educational chemical experiments.

The operating principle of the "Colorimeter" module of the ColorKit software tool was considered. It was shown that, unlike other software tools, it had built-in approximation tools, which significantly facilitated the processing of visual data; displaying the results of mathematical processing in a graphic form, which made the experiment visual. It should be noted that for the correct operation of the virtual spectrophotometer and colorimeter in real time, the correct setting of the video device driver is quite important.

A number of optical schemes of refractometers developed on the basis of the ColorKit software tool were presented: with liquid and V-prisms; i.e. the device whose principle of action is based on changing the optical properties of the lens in contact with the solution. It was shown that the simultaneous display of the course of the rays and the results of mathematical processing provides a high level of visibility. The results of the approval of the LED DIE refractometer with a V-prism are outlined. Further prospects for the development of the ColorKit project are planned.
Haemorrhoidectomy
Authors: Sheikh Muhammad Sajid , Afzal Muhammad , Yaqoob Muhammad , Iqbal Muhammad Irfan
Published: May 2024

Haemorrhoids are among the commonest surgical problems of anorectal region. Chronic constipation, straining, at defecation or micturation is the main predisposing factors but exact aetiopathogenesis remain unclear. Most patients in the initial stages are treated with conservative or minimally invasive approaches. However, haemorrhoidectomy has proven long-term efficacy in the treatment of third degree haemorrhoids. There is still controversy whether open or closed haemorrhoidectomy is the treatment of choice. Haemorrhoidectomy whether open or closed is associated with postoperative complications. This study was carried out to compare postoperative complications of both procedures to improve the management of haemorrhoids. Objectives: To compare postoperative complications in open and closed haemorrho-dectomy. Study Design: Quasi- experimental. Settings: Surgical unit-1, Allied Hospital Faisalabad. Duration: One year (20/06/o6 to 20/06/07). Sample size: 100 cases (50 cases in each). Sampling technique: Convenience sampling. Inclusion criteria: Patients with 3rd degree haemorrhoids. Exclusion criteria:

Complicated third degree haemorrhoids.
Patients with other causes of bleeding per rectum.
Patients having associated medical problems.
Patients not willing for surgery.

Results: Out of 100 patients 7 had severe postoperative pain,  5 from open and 2 from close group.50 patients had moderate pain, 30 from open and 20 from closed group.8 patients, 5 from open and 3 from closed group got urinary retention. 2 patients both from open group had anal stricture. Conclusion: Closed haemorrhoidectomy is more advantageous with respect to less postoperative pain.
Comparison of Telmisartan and Verapamil in Reducing Proteinuria in Diabetic Nephropathy Patients
Authors: Mumtaz Arif , Islam Umair Ul , Din Siraj Ud , Qasim Muhammad
Published: May 2024

Background: In diabetes, complications often extend to diabetic nephropathy, marked by proteinuria. This study investigates telmisartan and verapamil's efficacy in mitigating proteinuria. Verapamil, a calcium channel blocker, dilates vessels, while telmisartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker, induces vasodilation. However, evidence is confined to a single foreign study, prompting this research for more comprehensive insights. Objective: To comparison of telmisartan and verapamil in reducing proteinuria in diabetic nephropathy patients. Study Design: It was a prospective comparative study. Settings: Department of Medicine, DHQ Teaching Hospital, KMU Institute of Medical Sciences, Kohat. Duration: 05-02-2022 to 05-08-2022. Methods: One hundred patients with diabetic retinopathy and meeting inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study after taking informed written consents and two equal groups were made using lottery method. Patients in group A were given trandolapril 2 mg/day + telmisartan 80 mg/day whereas patients in group B were given trandolapril 2 mg/day + verapamil 120 mg/day, for three months. Study variables were noted at baseline and at three months. SPSS version 26.0 was used for data analysis. Results: Mean age of the patients was 46.20±13.80 years. Gender distribution revealed that 52.0% were male, while 48.0% were female. The duration of the disease varied among the participants, with an overall mean of 9.20±3.73 years. Mean BMI was 27.46±3.50 kg/m². MABP was recorded as 120.16±2.84 mmHg. Proteinuria, a significant parameter in this study, was observed with a mean value of 354.37±20.26 g/day. Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) was measured at 56.72±2.52 mL/dk. HbA1C was found to be 8.94±0.34%. Both the groups did not possess any significant difference between them at baseline (p-value>0.05). After treatment, mean proteinuria level in this study was significantly less in group A than group B with p-value=0.043. Moreover, mean change in proteinuria between before and after treatment was significantly high in group A than group B (p-value=0.000). After treatment mean GFR was less in insignificantly high in group A than group B (p-value=0.450) and likewise mean change in GFR from the baseline also had insignificant difference between the groups (p-value=0.489). Post treatment, mean HbA1c and MABP were less in group A than group B but the difference was not significant (p-value>0.05). Likewise, mean change also had insignificant difference between the groups. Conclusion: In conclusion, our study comparing the effects of Trandolapril with Telmisartan versus Trandolapril with Verapamil in diabetic nephropathy patients revealed a significant reduction in proteinuria in the Telmisartan group. However, no substantial differences were noted in GFR, HbA1c, and MABP between the groups. These findings provide valuable insights into optimal therapeutic strategies for managing diabetic nephropathy.
Ingresos y egresos de fauna silvestre en Centros para la Conservación e Investigación de la Vida Silvestre de México durante 2005-2020
Authors: Castro-Salazar Jesús Ignacio , Carpio-Domínguez José Luis , Arroyo-Quiroz Inés
Published: May 2024

En México, los Centros para la Conservación e Investigación de la Vida Silvestre (CIVS) reciben, rehabilitan y reintroducen a la naturaleza fauna silvestre rescatada, asegurada y decomisada por las instituciones gubernamentales. Pero, existen pocos estudios que evalúen su funcionamiento y eficiencia. El presente trabajo tuvo como objetivo comparar los ingresos y egresos de la fauna silvestre, así como la capacidad de presupuesto y personal de los CIVS de México durante el periodo 2005-2020. El estudio abarcó la información proporciona-da por 4 centros y se analizaron los datos de 36 526 ejemplares ingresados y 35 029 egresados. El ingreso a los CIVS se dio en su mayoría por aseguramientos y decomisos, y el principal motivo de egreso por canalizaciones a otros lugares. Los reptiles (n = 24 707) y las aves (n = 6 828) fueron los grupos taxonómicos más recibidos. La tasa de mortalidad de la fauna que ingresó (41.5 %) superó a la de liberación de ejemplares en la naturaleza (11.5 %), con los reptiles como grupo taxonómico con el mayor número de muertes (n = 8 011). El trabajo que desarrollan los CIVS permanece como de gran relevancia para el manejo primario de la fauna que se recupera por diferentes acciones, pero cuentan con poco personal capacitado y cada vez menos presupuesto para atender los ingresos de fauna que va en aumento.
Design and Analysis of Composite Biomaterial Bone Graft Plate
Authors: Hamdi Dunia Abdulsahib , Mowafaq Khider Fatima
Published: May 2024

The mixing technique was applied in this study to enhance the strength performance of the cement. The addition of 3% by weight of hydroxyapatite (HA) nanoparticles were mixed with 97% polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) acrylic polymer, which has a nano size to serve as the matrix material. The surface roughness and continuous porosity of the bone cement were found to be slightly increased by the incorporation of nanoparticles, which enhanced bone-implant osseointegration and ingrowth. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis revealed that the addition of hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanoparticles resulted in a surface roughness value (Sa) of 16.25 nm, which is similar to that of natural bone. The energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) mapping results discover precentor material and uniform distribution. The Sample exhibited promising results in the antibacterial test, showing efficacy against bacteria both with and without sterilization, confirming its antibacterial properties. The mechanical tests conducted on the sample, including tensile, compression, bending and Vickers hardness tests, yielded favorable results and indicated that the sample is suitable for its intended application.  In the theoretical works the design of the bone, screw, and bone plate was conducted using SolidWorks, followed by an analysis using ANSYS under both axial and bending load conditions. The theoretical analysis revealed that the safety factor was less than 1 when an axial load of 13 N was applied and a bending load of 2 N was applied, indicating that the structure may not be able to withstand these loads safely. Under both ambient and physiologically relevant conditions in the human body, HA and PMMA have demonstrated to be excellent choices for enhancing the clinical performance of bone cement. This, in turn, can lead to increased longevity of implants, decreased patient risk, and lower healthcare costs
Fabrication of Antimicrobial Hydrogel Using Biodegradable Blended Materials for Skin Applications
Authors: Abdallah Lina , Ayyed Alaa
Published: May 2024

Biodegradable polymers are very useful polymers in biomedical applications. In this research, several hydrogels were fabricated by using two polymers, Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and Chitosan (Chs) by the solvent casting method in order to use them for skin applications. Several tests were carried out on these membranes such as Agar diffusion method to examine their antimicrobial activities, Fourier transform infrared microscopy (FTIR) test to study the differences in their chemical structures. Uniaxial tensile test was performed to examine the mechanical characteristics of these membranes. In addition, the wettability test was used to investigate the hydrophobicity or hydrophilicity of the surfaces. The results showed that all membranes are hydrophilic, of which the contact angles are less than 90°. The membrane manufactured from 75:25 Chs-PVA is more hydrophobic (contact angle is 74°) than other membranes made of 50:50 Chs-PVA and 25:75 Chs-PVA as the contact angles were 59° and 61°, respectively. The tensile test results indicate that the membrane fabricated of the PVA and the membrane that was fabricated by 75% Chs and 25% PVA has the highest tensile strength of 17.9 MPa, 16.2 MPa and Young^’ s Modulus of 181.2 MPa and 7.18 MPa, respectively. The highest strain at break was observed by the membrane of 25:75 Chs-PVA which equals to 24.67%. Chitosan membranes showed inhibition zones of about 2.99 cm and 2.75 cm in length, and 75:25 Chs-PVA membranes showed 5.1 and 5.91 cm in length for E.coli. To sum up, this copolymer is considered as promising hydrogel for skin applications such as wound dressing.
Measurement and Analysis of ground reaction forces Distribution and electromyography for Ankle Joint Fixation Injury Using Different Types of Shoes
Authors: Fakhri Noora , Chiad Jumaa S.
Published: May 2024

One of the health issues that many people encounter on a daily basis is bone fracture, which can happen for a number of reasons, such as arthritis, sprains, or external trauma . The patient experiences instability as a result of these issues . Internal fixation is a type of surgery used to support and mend a damaged bone Treatment options include ankle joint fixation, a surgical procedure employing pins, plates, rods, or screws. This study uses gait analysis methods to assess lower limb biomechanics .  Gait analysis is vital for understanding walking patterns and intervention effectiveness. The impact of different shoe designs on ankle mechanics, using the finite element method and ANSYS, is investigated The results of the EMG and the GRF were discussed.
This research deepens our understanding of lower limb biomechanics and ankle joint health. By evaluating stress effects and designing custom shoes, it enhances ankle injury treatment and management strategies.
The patient, a 70-year-old woman with an internal fixation on her ankle joint, underwent a CT scan of her ankle. The patient underwent a number of experiments to evaluate her stability. EMG was used to determine the muscle stress for a brief period of time, and ground reaction force was then used to determine the pressure of walking. Both EMG and GRF have two walking speeds of1.5and 2 km/h while wearing four different types of shoes. The behavior of the EMG demonstrates that the stress on the muscle increases as walking speed increases, and the results varies depending on the shoe. The patient is afraid to apply pressure to the injured foot, so the health foot has better pressure over the entire foot
Algorithm for tracking an object observed by а video camera
Authors: Zalesky B. A. , Ivanyukovich V. A.
Published: May 2024

An algorithm for tracking an object observed on video frames is presented. The specific feature of the constructed algorithm is the automatic detection and capture of an object of one of predetermined types, its further reliable tracking, the rapid re-capture of the tracked object in the case of a failure of tracking, the capture of another object of desired type if the tracked object disappears. An object of interest on video frames is detected using a neural network detector, whereas tracking is performed by the developed algorithm.
Studying the synthesis regularities of adsorbents based on the oxides Li4Ti5O12 and Li2TiO3
Authors: Ivanets A. I. , Bicheva E. S. , Prozorovich V. G. , Kouznetsova T. F.
Published: May 2024

Using solid-phase, hydrothermal and sol-gel synthesis methods, adsorbents based on double oxides Li2TiO3 and Li4Ti5O12 were obtained. The influence of the synthesis conditions of samples on their phase composition, surface morphology, texture and adsorption properties was studied. It has been established that as a result of solid-phase synthesis reactions initiated by heating at 700 and 800 °C, single-phase oxides Li4Ti5O12 and Li2TiO3 are obtained, the values of the parameter a of the crystal lattice of which are close to the reference data and are 8.289 and 5.026 Å, respectively. The samples have a macromesoporous texture and have a low specific surface area (8 and 9 m2/g) and a mesopore volume (0.01 and 0.02 cm3/g). The adsorption capacity of the obtained oxides Li4Ti5O12 and Li2TiO3 reaches 7.9 and 6.3 mmol/g, respectively. The obtained oxides are of interest for further research as selective adsorbents of Li+ ions.
Prevalence of serine carbapenemase genes among multi-resistant strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae isolated from patients in the departments of surgery and intensive care units
Authors: Yanovich O. O. , Titov L. P.
Published: May 2024

The frequency of serine carbapenemases in phenotypically multi-drug resistant K. pneumoniae obtained from patients of surgery and intensive care units in Belarus was assessed. Beta-lactamase genes KPC, OXA-48, OXA-23, and OXA-24 were detected by PCR in 115 phenotypically multi-drug resistant K. pneumoniae. The most common carbapenemase gene was blaOXA-48 (70 %). The genes KPC and blaOXA-24 were identified in 43.6 and 39.1 % isolates, respectively. Single serine carbapenemase gene was detected in 23.5 % strains. On other strains, the molecular analysis determined double or triple carbapenemase gene combinations.
Binary blends of polyamide 6 with aliphatic polyketone: the compatibility analysis of polymer components
Authors: Krivoguz Yu. M. , Usova V. N. , Koval V. N.
Published: May 2024

The compatibility and interactions of polyamide 6 (PA6) and aliphatic polyketone (APK) were studied when they were mixed in a melt by extrusion. Using the relaxation spectrometry (RS) method, it was shown that the studied PA6/ APK blends had one glass transition temperature (Тg) located on the temperature scale between Тg of initial PA6 and APK. It was also found that in these mixtures, the PA6 b-relaxation peak, responsible for the local movement of small-scale structural units of the main chain and side branches, was socialized with the b-peak of APK. On this basis, conclusions were drawn about the compatibility of PA6 and APK at the segmental and small-scale level. The mutual influence of polymer components of PA6/APK blends on the dynamic shear modulus and the zG3 criterion is shown. The DSC analysis has revealed a slowdown in the crystallization of PA6 and APK in their blends, which is probably due to the formation of extensive interfacial (transitional) layers in the PA6/APK blend, in which crystallization of polymer components is hindered due to intermolecular interactions. The analysis of the IR-spectra in the range of 3000–3800 cm–1 has made it possible to establish the formation of hydrogen bonds between the polyamide –NH-groups and carbonyls –C=O, being part of APK, which contributes to an increase in the compatibility of the polymer components of the blend under study.
TALK SHOW UMKM DI RRI: SOLUSI DAN INOVASI UNTUK MENDUKUNG KEBANGKITAN EKONOMI NASIONAL
Authors: Wuryandari Nur Endah Retno , Adiwibowo Bugi Satrio , Purwanto Setiyo
Published: May 2024

Implementing Community Service (PkM) aims to encourage collaboration and exchange of ideas among Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to present solutions and innovations supporting the national economic recovery through a talk show on RRI PRO 1 FM. The method used in this activity includes organizing a talk show involving MSME actors as resource persons, focusing on discussions about solutions and innovations that can support the growth of MSMEs and their contribution to the national economic recovery. The results of the PkM implementation and its implications show that we have successfully contributed by partnering with MSME actors as companions in sharing experiences, solutions, and innovations that can make a positive contribution to the national economy.
Kajian	Pustaka	Tingkat	Pengetahuan	Masyarakat	dalam Penggunaan Analgesik Untuk Swamedikasi Nyeri
Authors: Al-Idrus Nabila Maulida , Aini Siti Rahmatul , Saputra Yoga Dwi
Published: May 2024

Swamedikasi merupakan pengobatan mandiri tanpa resep dokter. Nyeri adalah penyakit yang paling sering diobati menggunakan swamedikasi. Swamedikasi nyeri diobati menggunakan analgesik, swamedikasi analgesik dapat berjalan baik apabila penggunanya paham terhadap cara swamedikasi yang tepat. Pengetahuan merupakan faktor penting dalam keberhasilan     swamedikasi.     Terkait ulasan     tersebut,     perlu     dikaji tingkat pengetahuan masyarakat dalam penggunaan analgesik untuk swamedikasi nyeri. Metode yang digunakan adalah studi literatur dengan mengumpulkan pustaka terkait dengan topik yang diangkat, terdapat 10 artikel yang digunakan dalam kajian pustaka tersebut. Pada literatur yang telah disajikan, terdapat masyarakat yang memiliki tingkat pengetahuan yang rendah terhadap swamedikasi, dan mayoritas masyarakat memiliki pemahaman yang baik terhadap swamedikasi nyeri. Tingkat pengetahuan yang baik akan berpengaruh pada perilaku masyarakat saat swamedikasi. Terdapat faktor penting yang dapat membawa keberhasilan swamedikasi adalah faktor pendidikan, masyarakat yang memiliki pendidikan yang baik akan memiliki pengatahuan yang baik sehingga memunculkan kemawasan diri dalam swamedikasi, faktor lain adalah faktor pekerjaan Tingkat pengetahuan masyarakat dalam penggunaan analgesik untuk swamedikasi merupakan faktor penting untuk keberhasilan dari swamedikasi. Tingkat pengtahuan dapat dipengaruhi oleh beberapa faktor seperti faktor pekerjaan, faktor lingkungan, dan faktor pendidikan.
GC‒MS Analysis of Bioactive Compounds in Lime Leaf Ethanol Extract (Citrus amblycarpa (Hassk.) Ochse), and Its Potential as a Traditional Medicine Agents
Authors: Arsana I Nyoman , Juliasih Ni Ketut Ayu , Widyantari A.A.A. Sauca Sunia
Published: May 2024

Lime (Citrus amblycarpa (Hassk.) Ochse) has been widely used in traditional medicine. However, only some studies have comprehensively revealed the content of leaves, including their use as candidate medicinal ingredients. This study aimed to analyze the active compounds of lime leaves through GC‒MS analysis and their benefits in traditional medicine. Experimental research with a laboratory approach is used. The implementation of research by analyzing the bioactive content of lime leaf ethanol extract using GC‒MS along with a comprehensive analysis related to its benefits as a traditional medicine agent. Data analysis using the Willey 7 Library database and descriptive analysis.  Using GC-MS showed that lime leaf ethanol extract contains 75 compound components dominated by 11 principal components, including citronellol, caryophyllene, hexadecanoic acid, ethyl ester, 1-heptatriacotanol, Phytol, ethyl 9,12,15-oate; methyl glycocholate, 3TMS derivative; 3,7-dimethyloct-6-en-1-yl stearate; ethyl iso-allocate; Rhopin; and tricyclo [20.8.0.0 (7,16)] triacontane, 1(22),7(16)-diepoxy-. Based on the findings of the content evaluation, the compound constituents of lime leaves have the potential to be developed as traditional remedies for both degenerative and infectious diseases. However, further research is needed precisely to identify the therapeutic effects exerted by using compounds on lime leaves.
Development of Multiple Representation-based Electronic Teaching Materials Using Guided Inquiry on Acid-Base Topic
Authors: Nurani Isni , Suyanta
Published: May 2024

This study aims to develop and determine the feasibility of multiple representation-based electronic teaching materials using a guided inquiry model on the topic of acid and base for class XI high school. The method used in this research is research and development (R & D) which was developed by Thiagarajan and known as the 4D model. The 4D model consists of four stages: define, design, develop, and disseminate. This research instrument is a questionnaire to obtain a quantitative score used to determine the feasibility of teaching materials. The study results indicate that the developed teaching materials have a very good feasibility percentage. The developed teaching materials have been corrected by expert lecturers and revised according to the input given so that a decision is obtained that the teaching materials can be used. The feasibility of teaching materials is determined based on the assessment of the chemistry teacher as a reviewer and student responses. The assessment category obtained from the review by the chemistry teacher are very good with an average assessment percentage of 86.75%. Based on the results of field trials, the student responses show that the developed teaching materials were classified as very good category with an average percentage of 83.00%. Therefore, based on the validation and field trial results, the developed electronic teaching materials are feasible for use in class XI chemistry learning on the acid-base topic.