bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Giant Enhancement of Third-Harmonic Generation in Epsilon-Near-Zero Material by an ITO-SiO₂ Metagrating
Authors: Tang Zhixiang , yin shenwei , liu yi , mao yu , Wen Shuangchun
Published: October 2024

Due to huge electric filed enhancement resulting from the continuity of the normal component of the electric displacement field, epsilon-near-zero (ENZ) materials always exhibit a maximum of nonlinear response under large-angle oblique illuminations. As a result, the parallel components, which occupy over a half of incident power, are hardly helpful during the nonlinear processes. Here, we proposed a new approach for coupling all incident electric field into the ENZ nanostructures at the ENZ frequency. By fabricating ITO, a typical ENZ material, into a grating pattern and filling the gaps with SiO2, the incident light polarized in the direction of ITO-SiO2 periodic arrangement were totally coupled into the nanostructure under normal incidence. As a result, the electric filed in the ITO were greatly enhanced. Compared with a bare ITO film with same height at the ENZ wavelength, numerical simulations demonstrate a 103-fold THG efficiency enhancement from the proposed ITO-SiO2 metagrating under the pump intensity of I0=1.2GW/cm2. For understand the giant enhanced nonlinear effects, field distributions at ENZ frequency in the metagrating were analyzed. In addition, the angle-dependent THG efficiencies of the proposed metagrating were also investigated. The proposed ENZ-dielectric metagrating offers a reliable route towards nonlinear optical devices with low power and less space.
Perceptions of surgery in Nicaragua: A cross-sectional survey study within the surgery for the people project
Authors: Dutton John , Parikh Neil , Cabrera Maria , Robleto Carolina , Lambert Mikyla , Jones Emily , Treminio Sonia , Barkhordarzadeh Dory , Auslander Allyn , Ayala Ruben
Published: October 2024

Barriers to medical care include lack of proper infrastructure and equipment; however, cultural barriers to care and poorly perceived quality of care, especially surgical care, can also negatively impact a patient’s utilization of healthcare services. This study used patient-survey data from three unique municipalities in Nicaragua to examine pre-hospital barriers to care, including previous experience with healthcare, and how those experiences impact patient perceptions of surgery and care-seeking behavior. Surveys were administered in Siuna, Rosita, and Bonanza, Nicaragua between July 2019 and September 2020. Survey participants were aged 18-years or older that live in communities served by the Ministry of Health. The surveys were open response and multiple-choice format. Surveys included questions about structural/cultural/financial barriers to care, communication barriers, and knowledge of healthcare services. Data was managed using REDCap tools and analysis was completed using R. Individuals that previously visited a health post were significantly more likely to have a positive perception of surgery compared to those who had not (OR = 1.4) (p = 0.019). This finding remained significant after adjustment for education, age, and municipality. However, previous hospital visits did not have a significant impact on perception of surgery. Individuals with higher transportation costs reported a negative perception of surgery (40.4%), as well as those who used private transportation (29.1%) (p<0.001). Participants that reported travel obstacles were 2.64 times as likely to have a positive perception of surgery (p<0.001), even when adjusted for all demographics except site. These findings suggest that individuals who previously interacted with only lower-level healthcare environments were significantly more likely to have a positive perception of surgery. Counterintuitive findings show that access to public transport, transportation costs >2USD, and cell-phone usage increased negative perception of surgery. This study demonstrates the complexity of variables that impact perceptions of healthcare services while highlighting areas of focus for future targeted investments.
Depression and its associated factors among health care workers in Saint Paul’s hospital millennium medical college, Ethiopia
Authors: Tesema Melese Bahiru , Woldeamanuel Berhanu Teshome , Mekonen Eyoel Berhane , Melese Kidest Getu
Published: October 2024

Background

Depression is a common mental disorder that affects 3.8% of the general population and 24% of healthcare workers globally. Healthcare professionals are more susceptible to depression because they face higher amounts of professional stress in their jobs and academic lives. However, there is limited knowledge regarding health professionals’ level of depression in Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of depression and associated factors among health professionals, at Saint Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods

We conducted an institution-based cross-sectional study among 439 randomly selected healthcare workers using interviewer-administered patient health questionnaire-9 from April to May 2023. Ordinal logistic regression was performed to identify predictors of depression. Reported p-values < 0.05 or a 95% Confidence Interval of Odds Ratio excluding one was considered statistically significant.

Result

The overall prevalence of depression among healthcare workers was 21.9% (95%CI: 18%, 27.76%). There were reports of mild (35%), moderate (13%) and severe (9%) depression, respectively. Marital status of being single (AOR = 7.78, 95%CI: 1.123, 49.01), history of childhood abuse (AOR = 2.57, 95%CI:1.49, 4.42), history of suicidal attempt (AOR = 2.66, 95%CI:1.25,5.67), having a history of stressful life event (AOR = 1.527, 95%CI: 1.02,2.3), back pain over the past 30 days (AOR = 2, 95%CI: 1.30,3.11), working for more than 8 hours (AOR = 3.03, 95%CI: 1.12,8.24), and having experience of 5–10 year (AOR = 4, 95%CI: 1.05,15.27) and 10–15 years (AOR = 4.24, 95%CI: 1.08,16.58) and poor social support (AOR = 2.09, 95%CI: 1.09,3.99) were statistically associated with increased level of depression.

Conclusion

Healthcare professionals’ higher rate of depression was due to the higher workload, childhood abuse, history of stressful life, back pain, and poor social support. Thus, the hospital should give special attention to early screening and treatment for depression for those healthcare workers who have a high workload, childhood abuse, back pain, a history of stressful life and poor social support. Similarly, the Ministry of Health should also design strategies to screen, detect and treat depression among healthcare workers.
Translation, cultural adaptation, and validation of the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 in Kinyarwanda for primary care in the United States
Authors: Müller Frank , Hansen Alexis , Kube Megan , Arnetz Judith E. , Alshaarawy Omayma , Achtyes Eric D. , Holman Harland T.
Published: October 2024

Background

Depression and anxiety are significant health burdens that greatly impact the quality of life of refugees and migrants. In this study, we have translated and culturally adapted the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Screener (GAD-7) into Kinyarwanda and performed a validation study in a United States (US) primary care setting.

Methods

A committee of seven experts including psychiatric and family medicine providers, health researchers, and trained medical interpreters translated and culturally adapted the PHQ-9 and GAD-7, and incorporated feedback from cognitive interviews with bilingual participants. The translated instruments were then tested in a cross-sectional validation study. Analyses include internal consistency, discriminant validity, principal component analyses, and confirmatory factor analyses.

Results

Analyses of 119 responses indicated overall good internal consistency with Cronbach’s α of 0.85 (PHQ-9) and 0.92 (GAD-7). Both scales showed acceptable factor loadings between 0.44 and 0.90 in the principal component analyses and showed strong correlations with health-related quality of life and depression/anxiety symptoms measured with visual analog scales. Significantly higher scores for PHQ-9 and GAD-7 were shown among participants with known psychiatric conditions.

Discussion

PHQ-9 and GAD-7 demonstrated commendable applicability for Kinyarwanda-speaking patients in primary healthcare settings in the US. Our instruments can already be used in primary care settings and thus help to mitigate health disparities. Future research should further validate our tool against gold-standard diagnostics in larger, geographically diverse samples.
Circular causality analysis of corporate performance and accounting quality in M&As
Authors: Herghiligiu Ionut Viorel , Dicu Roxana Manuela , Aevoae George-Marian , Sahlian Daniela Nicoleta , Popa Adriana Florina , Robu Ioan-Bogdan
Published: October 2024

The past performance and the capital structure of the companies that are involved in mergers and acquisition (M&As) are considered into the analysis of the circular causality relationship between financial performance and market value. Considering two models, one for value relevance and one for accounting conservatism, this paper aims to analyze if the capital market influences the accounting practices of a target company or that the accounting figures influence the capital market. The analyzed sample used in the study is represented by the target companies involved in M&As which took place in the European Union Enlarged in 2017–2018. Financial and market data were considered for eight years (2011–2018). Using the conservatism model, the results show that targets’ earnings are significantly influenced by their financial leverage as an indicator for financial structure. Using the value relevance model, the capital market reaction is influenced by prices and return on equity that indicates the capital market influence on accounting figures.
Unmet needs to admission in physical and rehabilitation inpatient department in Low and Middle Income Countries in 2023
Authors: Moncer Rihab , Feni Nedra , Houssem Ghorbel , Loubiri Ines , Mtaouaa Sahbi , Jemni Sonia , Abdelaziz Ahmed Ben
Published: October 2024

Background

Determining the needs to access to rehabilitation structures is essential for developing effective improvement strategies. The objective of this study was to determine the percentage of unmet needs to admission to rehabilitation and their associated factors.

Methods

It is a cross sectional study in the inpatient rehabilitation department Sahloul Hospital of Sousse, tertiary care center including all requests to admission. Patient demographics, diagnoses, admission decisions, and post-decision outcomes were collected for each request.

Results

Of 329 admission requests, 316 were eligible. The mean patient age was 45 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 0.84. Most requests originated from the hospital’s outpatient department, neurology, and orthopedics. Among all requests, 40.5% were not admitted. Non-neurological diagnoses and patient residency were associated with non-admission. Patients with non-neurological conditions and those residing outside the city had twice the risk of non-admission. At one month, 63% of non-admitted patients experienced functional decline, and 18% were lost to follow-up.

Conclusion

Unmet needs to admission in rehabilitation structures is high due to lack of beds. This is leading of inequity of access to such important phase of care more. This study highlighted throwing the example of physical and rehabilitation department the gap of needs and the capacity of inpatient rehabilitation facilities. Healthcare policies should prioritize increasing rehabilitation bed availability in all regions of the country.
A new trematopid from the lower Permian of Oklahoma and new insights into the genus Acheloma
Authors: Osterling Arias Adrian F. , Mooney Ethan D. , Bevitt Joseph J. , Reisz Robert R.
Published: October 2024

Modern-day terrestrial amphibians pale in comparison to their monstrous ancient relatives, the Late Carboniferous and Early Permian trematopid temnospondyls. With a skeleton that clearly indicated a terrestrial mode of life and armed with an impressive set of large, recurved marginal dentition and palatal fangs for holding their prey—this group of terrestrial temnospondyls roamed North America and Central Europe as a top predator. Lack of substantial informative fossil material has previously limited our understanding of trematopid diversity and ontogeny. Fortunately, this has improved in the last few decades with the help of exceptional localities like the Early Permian locality Richards Spur. While multiple species of dissorophid temnospondyl have been described from Richards Spur, only one trematopid species has been confidently recognized -Acheloma dunni. Here, we report on the presence of a new large, relatively mature trematopid skull from this famous locality, found encased within a limestone rich block composed mostly of skeletal remains from several other taxa. With the help of neutron computed tomography (nCT), a non-invasive method of analyzing internal and external morphologies, this specimen has revealed several features consistent with the genus, Acheloma, but distinct from Acheloma cumminsi and Acehloma dunni. The identification of these new features, in addition to the characters it shares with other Acheloma species, not only constitute it as a new species of this genus, but also challenges the notion of having synonymized Acheloma dunni with Acheloma cumminsi. In this study, we also unveil new anatomical characters that are potentially independent of ontogeny and could therefore help clarify some of the phylogenetic relationships of this fascinating group of Paleozoic terrestrial predators.
Evaluating the effect of optimal zinc amino-acid complex supplementation in laying pullets on performance and zinc retention
Authors: Silva Gabriela Duarte , Rabello Carlos Bôa-Viagem , Wanderley Jamille Sheila da Silva , Abreu Katariny Lima de , Sousa Lilian Francisco Arantes de , Lima Rafael Victor Nunes , Costa Fabiano Séllos , Teixeira Miriam Nogueira , Santos Marcos José Batista dos , Fireman Alba K.
Published: October 2024

This study investigated the optimal dietary intake of zinc amino acid complex (Zn-AAC) for white-layer pullets, focusing on their productive performance, biochemical profile, organ biometry, and body zinc retention. The study involved 360 Dekalb White pullets (average weight: 433 ± 4.42 g) aged from 6 to 16 weeks and distributed into 6 treatments with 6 replications each. The Zn-AAC inclusion levels ranged from 5 to 75 mg kg-1. Zinc intake was modeled using a nonlinear equation, Y = ∝ *1- e-βX, where α is the maximum response, β is the rate at which the response approaches the maximum (P < 0.05). The Zn-AAC supplementation had significant effects on average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and feed convention ratio (FCR) (P < 0.01). Optimal intake levels of Zn-AAC were estimated at 0.234, 0.340, and 0.315 mg bird-1 day-1 (5.42, 7.87, and 7.30 mg kg-1) for ADG, ADFI, and FCR, respectively. The Zn-AAC supplementation affected the Zn body retention in pullets (P < 0.01), with an optimal ingestion at 1.86 mg bird -1 day-1, corresponding to a dietary supplementation of 43.10 mg kg-1. Additionally, supplementation affected alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity (P < 0.01) without significant changes in aspartate aminotransferase, albumin, and globulin levels. The optimal Zn-AAC intake level for ALP activity was 1.45 mg bird -1 day-1, corresponding to dietary supplementation of 33.60 mg kg-1. Based on Zn body retention, we recommend up to 1.86 mg bird -1 day-1 of Zn-AAC, which is equivalent to 43.10 mg kg-1.
Study protocol for the development of a real-time interface showing the availability of breast and cervical cancer services in Ghana
Authors: Sutherland Edward Kofi , Smith Justin Dean , Ofori-Boateng Millicent , Kushitor Sandra Boatemaa , Sarkwah Hammond Nii , Kwanin Bernard Agyei , Sward Katherine Ann , Gouripeddi Ramkiran , Manortey Stephen Oluaku , Price Matthew Dean , Rositch Anne , Ngwa Wil , Alder Stephen Craig , Joshu Corrine , Price Raymond Richard
Published: October 2024

Background

The 5-year survival rates for breast and cervical cancers in Ghana are low in comparison to rates in developed countries. This striking disparity is attributed to numerous factors, including limited access and navigability to appropriate services. A one-time cross-sectional, hospital-based survey was performed by the University of Utah in collaboration with Ghana Health Services (GHS) and Health Facilities Regulatory Agency (HeFRA) from November, 2020 to October, 2021 so as to determine existing hospital-based breast and cervical cancer care services capacity and their geographic availability nationwide. This related information remains dynamic in nature and time. The current project employs a public-academic implementation science and research configuration to explore and develop a real-time interface (RTIF) showing the availability of breast and cervical cancer care services at hospital facilities in-country so as to anchor up-to-date data products for the government, private-sector, and patient-centric consumption.

Methods and analysis

Multiple methods will be employed to achieve the study objectives between December 2023 to November 2024. The first three objectives shall focus on contextual, needs, and feasibility assessments guided by the domains and constructs within the updated Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) during coding and thematic qualitative analysis. Using purposive sampling, breast and cervical cancer care service stakeholders shall be identified for individual in-depth interviews. The fourth objective will involve creating the RTIF prototype and piloting it in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The final and fifth objective shall employ the systems usability scale (SUS) amongst ten randomly selected individual stakeholders to assess the technical functionality of the interface. A nationwide scale-up shall follow this.
Investigating impacts of gender-transformative interventions in water, sanitation, and hygiene: Structural validity, internal reliability and measurement invariance of the water, sanitation, and hygiene–Gender equality measure (WASH-GEM)
Authors: MacArthur Jess , Chase Rachel P. , Gonzalez Diana , Kozole Tyler , Nicoletti Chris , Toeur Veasna , Willetts Juliet ,   SNV Beyond the Finish Line Team
Published: October 2024

Links between gender equality and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) are well documented in qualitative studies, and emerging literature is recognizing the transformative potential of WASH interventions towards improvements in gender equality, of which empowerment is an important aspect. However, quantitative approaches to measure changing gender equality within WASH programs remain nascent. This study builds on previous work conducted in collaboration with the multi-country Water for Women Fund, establishing the theoretical development of the multi-dimensional WASH-gender equality measure (WASH-GEM) with five domains: resources, agency, critical consciousness, structures, and wellbeing. Starting from a strong conceptual foundation–this article demonstrates the WASH-GEM’s empirical rigor in balance with practical considerations. We present the measure’s staged development; examine its structural validity, internal consistency, and measurement invariance from an empirical basis; providing analysis from concurrent validation studies in Cambodia and Nepal (n = 3056). Twelve of the WASH-GEM’s 15 testable themes demonstrated high internal reliability and nine structural validity. Further refinement is recommended for the remaining four themes. Validation results from Cambodia and Nepal provide evidence of women and men’s differentiated experiences in relation to their WASH access, decision-making and roles, and in their lives more broadly. Results also reinforce the intersectional experiences of inequality and the importance of measurement beyond women’s empowerment. Overall, we provide evaluators and researchers with twelve curated and validated measures to examine changing gender dynamics within WASH-programs. These measures can be used as diagnostic or evaluation tools to support design and implementation of gender-transformative WASH interventions, programs, and policies.
Sample Disturbance and Its Impact on Soil Properties in Laboratory Soil Mechanics Testing: A Literature Review
Authors: Agustian Yanyan , Komarudin Udin , Ardiansyah Neris Peri
Published: October 2024

Sample disturbance in soil laboratory testing poses a significant issue due to its impact on test results, which can further affect geotechnical and foundation design. This study aims to analyze previous research related to various sampling methods and laboratory tests to understand the characteristics and properties of disturbed soil samples and their test results. Additionally, it seeks to understand developments in mitigating these disturbances, thereby encouraging researchers to continue developing methods and testing equipment that minimize sample disturbance. The methodology involves a literature review spanning the last 70 years, leading to several key conclusions: First, sample disturbance can occur during sampling and laboratory testing, including sampling methods, sample size, testing techniques, and equipment. Second, the most crucial impact of sample disturbance is the alteration in shear strength under both static and dynamic conditions, as well as changes in soil compressibility. To address these issues, this research proposes using a combination of laboratory tests and in-situ testing as an effective alternative to minimize disturbances and validate laboratory test results.
Penggunaan Kapur Tohor dan Abu Vulkanik pada Bata Ringan Terhadap Berat Jenis, Daya Serap Air, dan Kuat Tekan
Authors: Paundra Karna Muhamad Iqbal , Asy’ari Hafizh Fachru , Fauziyah Shifa , Susanti Riza
Published: October 2024

Light brick is a material commonly used in building walls besides red brick. Quick lime and volcanic ash were used in this research as substitute materials for making CLC lightweight bricks. This research aims to analyze using quicklime as a cement substitute and volcanic ash as a sand substitute to test density, water absorption capacity, and compressive strength. Light brick testing refers to the SNI standards for wall masonry. This research also compares the production costs of substitute lightweight bricks with conventional ones. The method used is quantitative experimentation and data analysis techniques using regression analysis. The influencing variable in this research is the independent variable, namely the use of volcanic ash: quicklime in variation A 0%: 0%, variation B 9%: 15%, variation C 9%: 30%, and variation D 9%: 45%. Based on the test results, it can be concluded that using volcanic ash affects increasing density and compressive strength and reduces the value of water absorption capacity. The optimum test results were in Variation D with an average density value of 956 kg/m3, water absorption value of 17%, and compressive strength value of 2.08 MPa.
Inovasi Paving Block Bentuk Ikan Pari
Authors: Syakir Muhammad Rheza Fakhri , Anantyo Raihan Dany , Fauziyah Shifa , Susanti Riza
Published: October 2024

The weak interlock system in paving blocks can cause discomfort for drivers when passing over them. The more frequently traversed by vehicles, paving blocks with poor interlock systems will experience displacement. The compressive strength of paving blocks also affects their quality, thus supporting the performance of the paving block interlock system. This research aims to produce paving block products with a better interlocking system. The method used in this research is experimental and conducted in a laboratory setting. The results of the compressive strength test on stingray-shaped paving blocks, conducted at 14 days and converted to 28 days, showed superior compressive strength with an average of 24.04 MPa compared to conventional square and hexagonal paving blocks tested at 28 days, each with an average compressive strength of 20.07 MPa and 22.25 MPa, respectively. The water absorption test of the stingray-shaped paving blocks conducted at 7 and 14 days showed average water absorption rates of 5.67% and 4.31%, respectively, meeting the quality requirements of Grade B according to SNI -03-0691-1996, which requires less than 6%. Interlock system testing of the stingray-shaped paving blocks indicated superiority with an average displacement of 5.514 mm compared to conventional square and hexagonal paving blocks, each with an average displacement of 11.802 mm and 9.744 mm, respectively. The cost calculation for stingray-shaped paving blocks amounted to Rp. 2263.22 per paving block, 24,559% more economical than the total cost for conventional hexagonal paving blocks, which amounted to Rp. 3000.00.
Evaluasi Sistem Evakuasi Kebakaran pada Kantor Wilayah Direktorat Jenderal Bea Cukai Kalimantan Bagian Selatan
Authors: Adzkia Yasmine , Werdiningsih Hermin
Published: October 2024

Banjarmasin is one of Indonesia’s ten provinces that are historically prone to fire. To prevent many life losses due to building fire, a building must comply with existing standards and regulations. Therefore, the fire evacuation system was evaluated at the South Kalimantan Regional Office of the Directorate General of Customs. In this research, the method used is descriptive with an evaluative analysis approach where the building data will be compared to related standards and regulations. From this research, it is proven that several fire evacuation system facilities in the building still do not comply with the existing standards and regulations, such as the number of emergency stairs, emergency exits, and the height of handrails on the stairs.
Characterization of a novel variant in KCNJ16, encoding Kir5.1 channel
Authors: Xu Biyang , Levchenko Vladislav , Bohovyk Ruslan , Ahrari Ameneh , Geurts Aron M. , Sency Valerie , Xin Baozhong , Wang Heng , Staruschenko Alexander
Published: October 2024

The essential role of the inwardly rectifying potassium channel Kir5.1 (KCNJ16) in controlling electrolyte homeostasis and blood pressure has been demonstrated in human and animal studies. Previous studies have identified several bi‐allelic mutations of KCNJ16 in humans, causing severe hypokalemia, renal salt wasting, and disturbed acid–base homeostasis. Here, we identified a novel homozygous variant of KCNJ16, I26T, in an Amish patient affected with polydipsia, developmental delay, and chronic metabolic acidosis with low serum bicarbonate concentration. Subsequently, we generated the rat model with I26T mutation using Dahl salt‐sensitive rat (I26T rat) to characterize this variant. The male mutant rats displayed similar blood pressure and electrolyte homeostasis under baseline and with a high salt (4% NaCl) challenge. Blood pH, HCO3− and renal damage also remained similar between WT and I26T rats after high salt challenge. Additionally, single‐channel patch clamp analysis revealed similar channel activity in CHO cells overexpressed with WT and I26T mutant Kir4.1/5.1 channels. In summary, this study reported a novel variant in KCNJ16, namely I26T, which is likely a benign variant and not associated with pathologic phenotype in either human or Dahl salt‐sensitive rats, indicating that the type/location of variant should be considered when diagnosing and treating patients with KCNJ16 mutations.
Arterial to jugular‐bulb lactate difference in patients undergoing elective brain tumor craniotomy
Authors: Vassilieva Alexandra , Olsen Markus Harboe , Skjøth‐Rasmussen Jane , Møller Kirsten , Sørensen Martin Kryspin
Published: October 2024

Hyperlactatemia is common during tumor craniotomy, but the underlying pathophysiology is unclear. This study measured simultaneous arterial and jugular‐bulb lactate concentrations in patients undergoing brain tumor craniotomy to investigate the hypothesis that hyperlactatemia was associated with a net cerebrovascular lactate input. In 20 patients, arterial and jugular‐bulb blood was collected hourly from the start of surgery to 6 h postoperatively for measurement of lactate, glucose, and oxygen concentration. For each marker, data were analyzed using a linear mixed‐effects model with jugular‐bulb concentration as dependent variable, arterial concentration as fixed effect, and patient as random effect. Furthermore, we generated regression lines between arterial and jugular‐bulb concentrations. The slope of the regression line between arterial and jugular‐bulb lactate was 0.95 (95% CI 0.93–0.97, R2 = 0.98), indicating that increasing arterial lactate levels were associated with an increasingly positive net cerebrovascular balance (net input). The line crossed the identity line at 2.86 (95% CI 0.57–5.16) mmol/L, indicating that lower levels of lactate were associated with a negative net cerebrovascular balance (net output). This suggests a switch from net lactate output during normolactatemia towards net input during hyperlactatemia. Hyperlactatemia in tumor‐craniotomy patients probably does not originate from the brain.
Involvement of pentraxin‐3 in the development of hypertension but not left ventricular hypertrophy in male spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Mkhize Siluleko A. , Manilall Ashmeetha , Mokotedi Lebogang , Gunter Sule , Michel Frederic S.
Published: October 2024

Hypertension drives the development of concentric left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). However, the relative contribution of pentraxin‐3 (PTX‐3), a novel marker for inflammatory cardiovascular disease, in the hypertrophic response to pressure overload has not been adequately elucidated. We investigated the role of PTX‐3 in the development of LVH in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), untreated and treated with either captopril (an ACE inhibitor) or hydralazine (a non‐specific vasodilator). Three‐month‐old SHR received either 20 mg/kg/day hydralazine (SHR + H, n = 6), 40 mg/kg/day captopril (SHR + C, n = 6), or plain gelatine cubes (untreated SHR, n = 7) orally for 4 months. Wistar Kyoto rats (WKY, n = 7) were used as the normotensive controls. Blood pressure (BP) was measured using the tail‐cuff method. Cardiac geometry and function were determined using M‐mode echocardiography. Circulating concentrations of inflammatory markers were measured in plasma by ELISA. LV fibrosis and cardiomyocyte width were assessed by histology. Relative mRNA expression of PTX‐3 was determined in the LV by RT‐PCR. Untreated SHR exhibited greater systolic BP and relative wall thickness (RWT) compared to WKY. Captopril and hydralazine normalized BP but only captopril reversed RWT in SHR. Circulating PTX‐3 and VCAM‐1 levels were elevated in untreated SHR and reduced with captopril and hydralazine. Circulating PTX‐3 was positively associated with systolic BP but lacked independent relations with indices of LVH. LV relative mRNA expression of PTX‐3 was similar between the groups. PTX‐3 may not be involved in the development of LVH in SHR, but plausibly reflects the localized inflammatory milieu associated with hypertension.
On the matching arrangement of a graph and properties of its characteristic polynomial
Authors: Bolotnikov Alexey I.
Published: October 2024

We consider a hyperplane arrangement constructed from a subset of the set of all simple paths in a graph. A relation of the constructed arrangement to the maximum matching problem is established. In addition, the problem of finding the characteristic polynomial is reduced to the case of a connected original graph. In the case where the original graph is a tree, a formula for the characteristic polynomial is obtained.
Effect of the reinforcement ratio on the mechanical behaviour of textile-reinforced concrete composite: Experiment and numerical modeling
Authors: Nguyen Xuan Bang , Tran Manh Tien , Hong Vu Xuan , Ferrier Emmanuel
Published: October 2024

Over the past decade, the textile-reinforced concrete (TRC) composite was gradually used to replace the fibre-reinforced polymer in the strengthening or repairing of existing reinforced-concrete structures, thanks to many criteria of sustainable development. The reinforcement ratio of textiles within TRC composites emerges as a crucial factor significantly impacting their reinforcement effectiveness, altering the material’s mechanical behaviour and properties. This study presents both experimental and numerical findings concerning the tensile behaviour of carbon TRC composites, exploring reinforcement ratios ranging from 0.5 to 1.5%. As experimental results, the carbon TRC specimens exhibited a strain-hardening behaviour with the cracking phase. The ultimate strength improved by 95 and 146% compared to that of non-reinforced specimens, respectively, with the reinforcement ratio of 0.92 and 1.32%. As numerical results, the model reached the strain-hardening curve with three distinct phases when the reinforcement ratio was higher than a critical value (0.7%). The effect of reinforcement ratio ranging from 0.5 to 1.5% on the mechanical behaviour and properties of carbon TRC was also highlighted and analysed.
Vector optimization problems with weakened convex and weakened affine constraints in linear topological spaces
Authors: Zeng Renying
Published: October 2024

In this article, we work on vector optimization problems in linear topological spaces. Our vector optimization problems have weakened convex inequality constraints and weakened affine equality constraints. Our inequalities are given by partial orders that are induced by pointed convex cones. We prove a Farkas–Minkowski-type theorem of alternative and obtain some optimality conditions through the discussions of vector saddle points and scalar saddle points.
6 ŞUBAT DEPREMİ SONRASI SAHAYA GÖNÜLLÜ GİDEN RUH SAĞLIĞI ÇALIŞANLARININ DENEYİMLERİ
Authors: Ekinci Büşra , Canpolat Murat
Published: October 2024

Afetler sonrası yakınlarını ya da mallarını kaybeden ve travmatize olan bireyler için psikososyal desteğin çok önemli olduğu bilinmektedir. Ruh sağlığı uzmanlarının bu konudaki deneyimleri, afet sonrası psikososyal yardımın daha etkili olabilmesi için oldukça önemli görülmektedir. Bu araştırmanın amacı ruh sağlığı uzmanlarının 6 Şubat depremleri sonrası sahadaki deneyimlerinin ortaya çıkarılmasıdır. Araştırma, nitel yaklaşımda ve olgubilim deseninde tasarlanmıştır. Katılımcıların hepsi 6 Şubat depremlerinden sonra psikososyal hizmet vermek için bölgeye gönüllü gitmiştir. Yetişkin 7 katılımcı ile yapılan nitel görüşmelerin tematik analizi sonucunda belirlenen iki tema şunlardır: “ kişisel gelişim ” ve “ mesleki gelişim ”. Elde edilen bulgular çerçevesinde böyle bir kriz sonrası psikososyal yardım sunacak olan profesyonellere bazı öneriler sunulmuştur.
RODOS PERAİASI’NDA BULUNAN YENİ BİR KIRSAL YAPI TİPOLOJİSİ ÖRNEĞİ: HELLENİSTİK ÇİFTLİK EVİ
Authors: Demirciler Volkan
Published: October 2024

Marmaris’e bağlı Bozburun Yarımadası’nda yürüttüğümüz yüzey araştırmaları kapsamında, 2009 sezonunda Phoinix (başta Gedikçukuru, Burgaz Tepe ve Küçükdibekbaşı mevkilerinde olmak üzere) ve Tymnos demoslarının teritoryumlarında ilk kez tapınak(?)-çiftlik veya küçük çiftlik yapıları bulunmuştur. Devamındaki çalışmalarda, 2022 sezonunda, söz konusu demoslar için getirdiğimiz çiftlik tipolojilerinden oldukça farklılaşan ve hepsinden daha büyük ölçekte belgelediğimiz bir kırsal yapı, Selimiye’nin halk arasında Cinbükü denilen Erler Koyu’nda bulunmuştur. Bu çalışmada, Erler Koyu’nda tespit ettiğimiz kırsal yapının mikro ölçekteki nüfuz alanı, işlevi ve geçirdiği dönüşüm irdelenmektedir. Kıyısal alanda konuşlanmış Losta Koyu’na hâkim vaziyetiyle ve yakın art alanında mutlak yüksekliği ve eğim dereceleri düşük, lateralde eni genişçe olan teraslarla bütünleşik yapı, deniz ticareti için bir kontrol ve/veya dağıtım noktası misyonu üstlenmiş bir deniz kapısı olabilirdi. Ancak, morfolojisi ve inşa tekniği ışığında, bölgedeki çiftlik ve bazı kült yapı mimarisiyle örtüştüğü oranda çift işlevli olma ihtimali üzerinde durulmaktadır.
Efficient Separation of Levulinic Acid Using Fly Ash from Sugar Beet Processing
Authors: Zeidan Hani , Esen Marti Mustafa
Published: October 2024

Levulinic acid (LA) is a significant building block in industry. It can be produced by the hydrolysis of lignocellulosic feedstocks and needs to be separated from the aqueous

production medium. This study focuses on evaluating fly ash, a waste byproduct from a

sugar factory, for use in the adsorption of LA from aqueous media. The sugar beet processing fly ash (SBFA) was characterized using XRD, FTIR, SEM, and N2

adsorption-desorption analysis. The data fit the pseudo-second-order kinetic model, with good agreement between the experimentally measured (454.55 mg g–1) and calculated (452.40 mg g–1) adsorption capacities. It was observed that the efficiency slightly decreased with increasing temperature, with the effect more pronounced at lower concentrations. Calculated thermodynamic parameters demonstrated that the process was exergonic and exothermic. The capacity of LA adsorption reduced with SBFA dose while enhanced with acid concentration, achieving a maximum of 464 mg LA/g SBFA, higher than values previously achieved with other adsorbents. The Langmuir isotherm model fit well with

equilibrium data. Complete recovery of LA was achieved using 0.2 M NaOH, and SBFA

could be reused with high efficiency for five consecutive cycles.
Enhancing Nicotine Biodegradation
Authors: Shahriari M. , Khayati Gholam
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the adaptation of activated sludge for nicotine degradation by introducing glucose as a co-substrate. The acclimation process significantly improved nicotine biodegradability, leading to its complete degradation. In contrast, the non-acclimated sludge removed less than 10 % of nicotine over the same period. The acclimated system achieved effluent nicotine and COD concentrations of 0.95 mg L–1 and 31 mg L–1, respectively, with removal efficiencies of 99.81 % and 93.80 %. 16S rRNA analysis identified Bosea sp. and Paenarthrobacter sp. as potential nicotine-degrading bacteria under long-term acclimation. This study also examines the impact of hydraulic circulation on the formation of aerobic granule. In a 6-hour cycle, granules with diameters of 2–3 mm and high strength had formed, whereas longer cycles (12 and 24 hours) led to incomplete granulation. Increasing the nicotine concentration up to 1000 mg L–1 tested the granules’ degradation capability, achieving a COD removal efficiency of 91.02 %.
Antibacterial Production by Endophytic Bacteria from Catharanthus roseus in East Timor Against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Missa Hildegardis , Ndukang Sardina , Djalo Aloysus , Nau Getrudis W. , Susilowati Ari , Baunsele Anselmus Boy , Santos Americo Dos
Published: October 2024

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) refers to a group of bacteria that cause infections and present a challenge in treatment due to their resistance to several antibiotics. Therefore, research is needed to discover endophytic bacteria from Catharatus roseus capable of producing new antibiotics. This study aims to identify endophytic bacteria from C. roseus plants originating from Timor Island, as producers of effective antibacterial compounds against MRSA. Antibacterial activity tests were conducted on two types of test bacteria, namely MRSA and Escherichia coli. DNA extraction was performed using the PrestoTM Mini dDNA kit Bacteria, and amplification of the 16S rRNA gene was carried out. The research found bacterial isolates showing morphological similarities to Bacillus sp. Screening results indicated that four bacterial isolates exhibited high potential antibacterial activity against MRSA, as evidenced by the formation of inhibition zones with diameters of approximately 25 mm-35 mm. Amplification of the four endophytic bacterial isolates from C. roseus identified them as Paenibacillae FaCH2, Bacillae BoCH3, Aneurinibacillae BoCH5, Aneurinibacillae BiCH8, which are new species based on 16S rRNA gene similarity of less than 97%. In conclusion, endophytic bacteria from C. roseus producing antibacterial compounds against MRSA have been successfully identified. This is beneficial to society because the antibacterial compounds produced can serve as a basis for developing new drugs that are effective against MRSA infections, considering the increasing antibiotic resistance against MRSA.
Legal Involvement in Pediatric Cancer Treatment Refusal: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Caruso Brown Amy E. , Beskow Laura M. , Benedetti Daniel J.
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVES

To characterize the spectrum of legal options considered in cases of treatment refusal, nonadherence, and abandonment (TRNA); clinicians’ thought processes regarding legal intervention; and perceived consequences of legal involvement.

METHODS

We conducted in-depth, semistructured interviews with 30 pediatric oncologists between May and September of 2019 regarding experiences with TRNA. The interview guide covered types of conflicts encountered; factors and strategies considered in response; effects of TRNA cases, personally and professionally; the role of ethical frameworks and legal requirements; and resources needed to manage TRNA cases. Interviews were transcribed and coded iteratively using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Participants represented a range of institutional sizes, geographic locations, and years in practice. Twenty-five of 30 interviewees discussed legal consideration with regard to TRNA. Most participants first engaged the legal system through child protective service agencies. They considered patient age, treatment efficacy, quality of life (burden of treatment), and prognosis; family resources and social context; and preservation of therapeutic relationships and possible consequences of reporting. Experiences and outcomes of legal involvement varied.

CONCLUSIONS

Clinicians struggle with the tension between obligations to report medical neglect and fears that reporting may result in more harm than benefit to the child in question. We urgently need more dialog between health care professionals and child protective services and legal professionals. Stakeholders from both groups would benefit from a greater understanding of the other’s thought processes; clarity regarding the relevant facts; and mutual progress toward creative, evidence-based solutions to working out these complex challenges.
Формування концепту космологічних моделей архітектури та містобудівництва у гуманітарних науках: філософські сенси
Authors: Мазур Олена
Published: October 2024

Актуальність. У сучасній філософсько-гуманітарній думці відбувається просторовий поворот (spatial turn) і феномен простору і концепт «простору» досліджується у глибинному взаємозв'язку з іншими феноменами культури та буття. Саме на такому перетині виникає стійкий інтерес у міждисциплінарній площині гуманітаристики до «сакральних» просторів» і до одного з його різновидів - космологічного простору, що знайшло своє відображення в перших спорудах сакральної архітектури, план і форма яких відтворювала космічний небесний порядок.
Метою дослідження є прослідкувати формування, генезу космологічних моделей архітектури та містобудування в теоретичній рецепції сучасної гуманітаристики.
Результати. Зроблено аналіз етимології  терміна «космологічні моделі архітектури та містобудування» у понятійно- категоріальному апараті світової та вітчизняної філософії та гуманітаристики.
Висновки. Виявлено в міждисциплінарних дослідженнях космологічних моделей стародавньої архітектури глибоко архаїчне, але по суті універсальне загальнолюдське уявлення про світ, що додало дослідженням філософський потенціал. Застосувавши метод культурологічного підходу в історії філософії, встановлено в текстах філософсько значущі ідеї та філософсько навантажені терміни , які залучено для нашого філософського аналізу : «просторова чутливість» (“spatial sensibility”), «релігійна просторовість» (“spatialité religieuse”), семіотичні коди, фази космізації, umbilicus orbis, фокус, осі космосу, imago mundi, аxis mundi, domus, dominus, madonna, «святе місце», космізований простір, священний простір та інші .Знайти філософські відповіді або висунути філософські гіпотези - завдання майбутніх публікацій.
Господарські передумови успішності соціального експерименту Дмитра Столипіна
Authors: Приймак Олег , Приймак Юлія
Published: October 2024

Актуальність статті полягає у відповідності її тенденціям розвитку таких сучасних наук, як історія соціології та соціальна історія України. Дослідження передумов успішності соціального експерименту 1874-93 рр. південноукраїнського земського та громадського діяча, соціолога-аматора Д. А. Столипіна (1818-1893) набуває теоретичної значущості у біографічній та мікроісторичній площинах.
Мета статті полягає у всебічній характеристиці господарських передумов соціального експерименту Дмитра Столипіна.
Результати. Визначено, що протягом ХІХ ст. на Півдні України сформувався комплекс господарських передумов, які забезпечили успішність соціального експерименту Д. А. Столипіна. На перше місце серед них поставлено факт широкого розповсюдження хутірської форми господарювання, окремі різновиди якої стали прототипами орендних хуторів в с. Мордвинівці. Розроблені критерії їх класифікації. Доведено, що в умовах втягнення місцевого селянства у сферу ринково-капіталістичних відносин, слабкість та штучність сільської общини виступили другою передумовою успішності соціального експерименту. Зазначено, що південноукраїнська сільська община, у площині розподілу землі та податків, поступово втрачала функцію зрівняльної справедливості. Підкреслено, що у якості третьої передумови слід вважати кризовий стан поміщицького господарства в регіоні.
Висновки. Поширеність серед сільського населення хутірської форми розселення, слабкість та штучність общини, криза дворянських маєтностей виступали невід’ємними складовими аграрного устрою Півдня України ІІ половини ХІХ століття. Ці господарські передумови, у поєднанні із дослідницькими та світоглядними, забезпечили успішність соціального експерименту Д. А. Столипіна.
Агентство США з міжнародного розвитку: стратегія та напрями діяльності в Україні (1992–2024)
Authors: Мателешко Юрій
Published: October 2024

Актуальність теми пояснюється тим вагомим внеском, який зробило Агентство США з міжнародного розвитку (USAID) в розвиток демократії, громадянського суспільства, ринкової економіки та охорони здоров’я в Україні, а також відсутністю досліджень з цієї проблематики.
Метою статті є з’ясування стратегії, цілей, напрямів та особливостей діяльності USAID в Україні протягом 1992–2024 рр.
Результати. На основі аналізу базових документів з’ясовано, що стратегічною метою діяльності Агентства є демократична та економічно розвинена Україна, об’єднана навколо західних цінностей, що є однією з основ цілісної, сильної та мирної Європи. Опрацювавши близько 100 минулих та сучасних програм USAID, виокремлено та охарактеризовано головні напрями діяльності Агенства в Україні: економічний та суспільно-політичний, а також ті, що пов’язані з охороною здоров’я та наданням гуманітарної допомоги.
Висновки. В основі поточної Стратегії співробітництва USAID лежить ідея, згідно якої європейські прагнення, демократичний поступ, майбутній добробут і суверенітет України можуть бути забезпечені лише за умови вирішення проблеми корупції, пом’якшення наслідків російської агресії, а також досягнення сталого економічного зростання на ринкових засадах. За більш ніж 30 років своєї діяльності в Україні USAID реалізувало понад 50 програм, що сприяли розвитку демократичного врядування, громадянського суспільства, незалежних медіа, а також підтримували боротьбу з корупцією та захист прав людини. Агентство зробило суттєвий внесок у сприяння розвитку ринкової економіки та сфери охорони здоров’я, а також у соціальний захист найбільш уразливих верств населення. Сьогодні USAID реалізує в Україні понад 40 поточних програм, серед яких особливо важливими є ті, що пов’язані з подоланням негативних наслідків повномасштабної війни (відновлення енергосистеми, продовольча безпека, гуманітарна допомога постраждалим тощо).