bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Correlation of Aortic Neck Angle and Length in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm with Severe Neck Angulation for Prediction of Intraoperative Neck Complications and Postoperative Outcomes after Endovascular Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Chinsakchai Khamin , Sirivech Thana , Moll Frans L , Tongsai Sasima , Hongku Kiattisak
Published: August 2023

Objectives: Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) in hostile neck has been associated with adverse outcomes. We aimed to determine the association of infrarenal aortic neck angle and length and establish an optimal cutoff value to predict intraoperative neck complications and post-operative outcomes.
Methods: This was a retrospective review of intact infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) with severe neck angulation (> 60 degrees) who underwent EVAR from October 2010 to October 2018. Demographic data, aneurysm morphology, and operative details were collected. The ratio of neck angle and length was calculated the optimal cutoff value of the aortic neck angle-length index. Patients were classified into two groups using latent profile analysis. Intraoperative neck complications, adjunct neck procedures, and early and late outcomes were compared.
Results: 115 patients were included. Group 1(G1), aortic neck angle-length index ≤ 4.8, had 95 patients and Group 2 (G2), aortic neck angle-length index > 4.8, had 20 patients. Demographic data and aneurysm morphology were not significantly different between groups except for neck length (P < 0.001). G2 had more intra-operative neck complications than G1 (21.1% vs 55%, P = 0.005). Adjunctive neck procedures were more common in G2 (18.9% vs 60%, P < 0.001). Thirty-day mortality rate was not statistically different. G1 patients had a 5-year proximal neck re-intervention free rate comparable to G2 patients (93.7%G1 vs 87.5%G2, P = 0.785). The 5-year overall survival rate was not statistically different (59.9%G1 vs 69.2%G2, P = 0.891).
Conclusions: Patients with aortic neck angle-length index > 4.8 are at greater risk of intraoperative neck complications and adjunctive neck procedures than patients with an aortic neck angle-length index ≤ 4.8. The 5-year proximal neck re-intervention free rate and the 5-year survival rate were not statistically different. The aortic neck angle-length index is a reliable predictor of intra-operative neck complications during EVAR in AAA with severe neck angulation.
Factors Contributing to Body Image Dissatisfaction among Female Students at the University of Venda, Limpopo Province
Authors: Chueng Maphuti J , C FOKOMO A , V BALOYI , M Mushwana
Published: August 2023

Many university female students are concerned about their bodies. Body image perception has become a public health issue globally. This study aimed to explore factors contributing to body image dissatisfaction among female students at the University of Venda. The study was qualitative in nature and employed exploratory research design. A sample of 10 female students enrolled at the University of Venda were identified using convenience sampling method. A pre-tested, semi-structured interview guide was used to collect data and thematic content analysis technique was used to analyse the collected data. The findings of the study showed that body comparison, societal beauty standards, social media, and body shaming by family and friends were the main factors contributing to student’s body image dissatisfaction. The findings further revealed that lack of self-confidence, stress, avoidance, anxiety and depressive symptoms were the challenges faced by students with body image dissatisfaction. Acceptance. Self-care, and healthy diet were identified as coping strategies to help deal with the challenges of student’s body image dissatisfaction. Conclusively, students should be encouraged to seek professional help timeously, to help navigate their body image concerns to avoid decline in their daily functioning.
Synthesis of Aminobisphosphinates through a Cascade Reaction between Hypophosphorous Acid and Bis(trimethylsilyl)imidates Mediated by ZnI2
Authors: Ayadi Nouha , Descamps Aurélie , Legigan Thibaut , Dussart-Gautheret Jade , Monteil Maelle , Migianu-Griffoni Evelyne , Ayed Taïcir Ben , Deschamp Julia , Lecouvey Marc
Published: August 2023

Among phosphorylated derivatives, phosphinates occupy a prominent place due to their ability to be bioisosteres of phosphates and carboxylates. These properties imply the necessity to develop efficient methodologies leading to phosphinate scaffolds. For the past years our team have explored the nucleophilic potential of silylated phosphonite towards various electrophiles. In this paper, we propose to extend our study over other electrophiles. We describe here the implementation of a cascade reaction between (trimethylsilyl)imidates and hypophosphorous acid mediated by a Lewis acid allowing the synthesis of aminomethylenebisphosphinate derivatives.
CFD MODELLING OF THERMAL AERODYNAMIC CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPOSITE FLAT-OVAL TUBE WITH INCOMPLETE CORRUGATED FIN
Authors: Baranyuk Oleksandr , Vorobyov Nikita , Alekseik Yevhenii , Mazurenko Anton
Published: August 2023

In the article thermo-aerodynamic characteristics of the original design of a heat exchange surface - a flat-oval tube with incomplete corrugated fins, which can be used for the modernization of heat exchange equipment, are studied. The purpose of the work is a preliminary assessment of the efficiency of flat-oval tubes with incomplete corrugated fins and obtaining an empirical dependence for calculation using CFD modeling. The object of the study is forced convection during transverse washing of a composite flat-oval tube with incomplete corrugated fins. The subject of the study is heat transfer and aerodynamics during transverse washing of a composite flat-oval tube with incomplete corrugated fins. In the work, the values of the dimensionless coefficient of heat transfer and pressure loss are obtained, as well as the calculated dependence for determining the coefficient of heat transfer and aerodynamic resistance of the mentioned types of tubes is presented. Data verification was carried out with a smooth tube and a tube with spiral fins. The scientific novelty of the work is the establishment of the fact that flat-oval tubes with incomplete corrugated fins have a higher heat transfer coefficient compared to smooth tubes (by 45 – 50 % in average) and spiral-ribbed tubes (by 25 – 30 % in average) with simultaneous increasing of aerodynamic resistance by 25 – 30 % at the same flow rate of the heat carrier. Practical application of the obtained results allows designers to increase the surface area of heat exchange, which makes these tubes prospective for using in power engineering and industry, in particular, for dry cooling towers of nuclear power plants and thermal power plants, for boiler heat exchangers, for gas turbine installations, etc.
HYDROACOUSTICS OF THE MECHANICAL BILEAFLET HEART VALVE
Authors: Voskoboinick Volodymyr , Redaelli Alberto , Fiore Bengamino , Voskoboinyk Oleksandr , Voskobiinyk Andriy
Published: August 2023

The results of experimental researches of hydrodynamic noise generated by a jet flow through the mechanical bileaflet mitral valve prosthesis of the Italian company Sorin are given. Physical simulation was carried out in laboratory conditions on the model of the left atrial chamber and the left ventricular chamber of the heart. The hydrodynamic noise of the flow through the artificial bileaflet mitral valve increased with increasing water flow. It was found that the greatest intensity of hydrodynamic noise and its spectral components was observed near the central jet of the bileaflet mitral valve. The obtained average pressure values in the near wake of the open mitral valve near the side jet are (10 – 20) % higher than near the central jet. It was determined that the power spectral densities of pressure fluctuations near the central jet are higher than near the side jet, especially in the frequency range (10 – 100) Hz. It was established that the small-scale vortex structures, which broke away from its leaflets and generated pressure fluctuations in the frequency range (20 – 70) Hz, degenerated starting from a distance of 2.5 valve diameters downstream. Increased levels of pressure fluctuations were observed near the central jet by more than (12 – 13) dB relative to hydrodynamic noise inside the atrial chamber and by more than (5 – 7) dB higher relative to pressure fluctuations near the side jet inside the left ventricular chamber in the frequency range (12 – 15) Hz. With an increase in water flow in the near wake of the mitral valve, an increase in the spectral levels of pressure fluctuations in the frequency range (60 – 80) Hz was observed. At a distance of more than  below the open mechanical bileaflet mitral valve, the hydrodynamic noises near the central and side jets became approximately equal in the entire frequency range under consideration. The research results showed that hydroacoustic diagnostics of the operation of the mechanical bileaflet heart valve can be an effective means of diagnosing thrombus formation on the artificial valve leaflets.
CORRECTION OF OPTOACOUSTIC IMAGES USING BANACH'S THEOREM
Authors: Rudnitskii Alexandr , Rudnytska Maria , Tkachenko Ludmila
Published: August 2023

The main aim of the work was the development and research of a numerical algorithm designed to correct artifacts and distortions that occur during image reconstruction in optical-acoustic tomography tasks. The task was to develop an algorithm capable of compensating for the peculiarities of the reconstruction method. The proposed iterative scheme for enhancing optoacoustic images is based on Banach's fixed point theorem. The problem of eliminating distortions and artifacts in optoacoustic images has been modeled and tested for four iterative schemes. Two-dimensional and three-dimensional numerical models were used to investigate the efficiency of the proposed algorithm. The optical-acoustic experiment simulated a biological environment with an object to be reconstructed built into it. The linear (2D case) or planar (3D case) detecting acoustic arrays located on the surface of the studied samples were considered. The reconstruction quality was determined using both the quantitative and visual estimates of the obtained results. The efficiency of the iterative algorithm of enhancing the reconstruction quality was quantitatively estimated using the structure similarity index SSIM and relative reconstruction error E. It was shown that the developed algorithm makes it possible to considerably improve the image quality as compared with the traditional optical-acoustic tomography methods even with a small number of iterations. Algorithms of the k-Wave Matlab toolbox software package were used for comparing. The results obtained in the work can be important from the standpoint of the prospects of their further practical application in the tasks of biomedical visualization.
Public Spending and Financial Inclusion and Their Impact on Inclusive Growth In Indonesia: A Spatial Approach
Authors: Prabowo Della Hardyati , Maski Ghozali , Santoso Dwi Budi
Published: August 2023

Inclusive growth results in equal access to the benefits of growth and, by that, reduces disparities. Public spending plays an important role in supporting economic growth and people's welfare. On the other hand, financial inclusion has the ability to expand opportunities to participate in growth. Using data on government spending and financial inclusion in 34 provinces in Indonesia in 2015-2019, this study aims to examine the link between the two towards inclusive growth. As a result, spending on education and financial inclusion, as well as investment and trade openness, can promote inclusive growth. Expanding access to education as a result of public investment in education will boost labor capacity and productivity. Meanwhile, access to more affordable credit will be realized through an inclusive financial system. Conversely, due to health development gaps, health spending has a negative impact on inclusive growth. The spatial error model with queen contiguity spatial weight matrix shows a significant spatial effect on the error term or residual. The implication is that policies for expanding education, health, and digital access as well as increasing investment and financial literacy need to be carried out to ensure people's affordability to economic opportunities by considering regional aspects.
Indonesia's Trade Policy Strategy through the Rail Industry for the Train Market in Africa
Authors: Prinanda Devita , Prasodjo Haryo
Published: August 2023

The Indonesian Railway Industry (INKA) has increased its export production, especially to other developing countries such as Bangladesh, the Philippines, and others. Since 2018, Indonesia has explored the railway industry market in Africa. However, several challenges such as market competition with China and Europe, the distance between Indonesia and Africa, as well as the purchasing power of the African region with the majority of developing and less developed countries are important notes for Indonesia's strategy. This research will discuss the opportunities, challenges, and strategies of INKA in exporting trains in the African region. The analysis of this research uses international trade politics through the Pure Exchange Model of Trade and Strategic Trade Policy. The Pure Exchange Model of Trade is used to explain INKA's position in international trade to understand INKA's opportunities and challenges in Africa. Meanwhile, Strategic Trade Policy is used to describe Indonesia's strategy in advancing the Indonesian Railway Industry in Africa. The results of the study show that Indonesia provides support through a series of policies such as subsidies and diplomacy to obtain projects in Africa. In the process, INKA experienced challenges such as intense competition. However, many opportunities are presented by INKA in terms of the quality factor and the government's persuasive ability.
East Java Tobacco Competitiveness in the International Market
Authors: Wijaya Winadinata Grace Angelina , Widayanti Sri , Fitriana Nisa Hafi Idhoh
Published: August 2023

Tobacco production in East Java Province experienced various problems that caused the export performance of East Java Province tobacco to fluctuate in the international market. This study aims to analyze the comparative and competitive competitiveness of East Java Province tobacco exports in the international market from 2007 to 2021. The analytical method used in this study is Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA) to analyze comparative competitiveness and the Trade Specialization Index (TSI) or Trade Specialty Index (ISP) to analyze competitive advantage. Based on the results of the RCA analysis, it shows that East Java Province's tobacco exports in the international market have strong comparative competitiveness because the RCA value is greater than 1, with an average value of 16.31. ISP analysis results are less than 0 to 1 or negative, with an average value of -0.26. The ISP value of East Java tobacco exports indicates that East Java Province tends to be an importer rather than an exporter and is in the import substitution stage. The need for large consumption should be met by domestic production to reduce tobacco imports due to the high comparative competitiveness of East Java tobacco in the international market.
Determinant Analysis Of Credit Distribution In Regional Development Bank In Indonesia
Authors: Prastiyo Agung Nur , Kristijadi Emanuel
Published: August 2023

This study uses the cross-section of time series data from 2011-2020 and Regional Development Banks in Indonesia. The method used in this study is the panel data regression method with the Fixed Effect GLS approach. Econometric analysis using panel data regression models to identify the variables that affect lending. This study aims to analyze the effect of Capital, Profitability, Bank Health, and Inefficiency on lending at Regional Development Banks. The analysis results show that simultaneously the independent variables significantly affect the dependent variable. Furthermore, partial Return On Assets positively and substantially affects lending at Regional Development Banks in Indonesia.
Interaction between Islamic Financial Development and Economic Growth: Empirical Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Ambariyanto Ambariyanto , Anshori Muslich , Mawardi Imron , Fauzi R Moh Qudsi
Published: August 2023

Financial development and economic growth have been thoroughly analyzed in the literature extensively. The discussion revolved on whether the financial sector leads the real sector in the process of economic development or whether it is the other way around. There is now no consensus on the causal relationship between financial development and economic growth. So, it is necessary to determine the relationship between financial development and economic growth in order to make accurate economic growth estimations. This paper examines an interaction model between Islamic financial development and economic growth that assumes the consumption of real resources by the financial sector. This research used Hadri Lagrange-Multiplier to investigate association’s path between variables. As a result, the interaction between Islamic financial development and economic growth may be unidirectional. However, the Islamic financial system is unsustainable, the Islamic financial market's contribution remains modest, and this could not eventually contribute to economic growth significantly. In addition, the results of this study reveal that the development of Islamic financial institutions in Indonesia has not yet had a significant effect on the welfare of Indonesian society. Due to rising demand for financial services, it was believed that economic growth drives finance in developing nations. Moreover, Economic growth fosters competition among financial intermediaries, resulting in more efficient financial transactions and, consequently, increased growth.
The Effect of Infrastructure, Investment, and Economic Growth on Community Welfare Through Employment Opportunities in Indonesia
Authors: Eliana Ayu , Endang Endang
Published: August 2023

Employment opportunities and community welfare are related, the opportunity for people who work will earn income for the community to fulfill their daily needs which is described by community welfare.  This study used secondary data obtained through the Central Bureau of Statistics, then analyzed using path analysis techniques with the help of Eviews 12. The results showed that infrastructure and investment had a negative and insignificant effect on employment opportunities, but economic growth had a significant negative effect on employment opportunities. Infrastructure and investment have a positive and insignificant effect on the welfare of the community, economic growth has a negative effect and does not have a significant effect on the welfare of the community.  Opportunity to work has a positive and significant impact on the welfare of maisyairaikait.  Infrastructure has no other direct effect on the welfare of the people, while investment and economic growth can have an indirect effect on the people's welfare through the opportunity to work in Indonesia.
High-solution emission patterns and health risks of volatile organic compounds from automobile repair industries in Beijing
Authors: Du Zhanxia , Li Hanbing , Nie Lei , Yao Zhen , Zhang Xinmin , Liu Yuting , Chen Sha
Published: August 2023

The increasing automobile repair industries (ARIs) with spray facilities have become an important volatile organic compounds (VOCs) pollution source in China. However, the VOCs health risk assessment for long-term exposure in ARIs have not been well characterized. In this study, though sampled VOCs from 51 typical ARIs in Beijing, the relationship between emission patterns, average daily exposure concentrations (EC) and health risks were comprehensively analyzed with the health assessment method. Results showed that concentrations of 117 VOCs from the samples ranged from 68.53 to 19863.32 µg·m− 3, aromatics were the main VOCs component in mix paint (MP) workshops and water-based paint spraying (WPS) workshops, accounting for 44.00% and 70.08%, respectively. And ARIs operator's daily VOCs inhalation EC was 11.24-1460.70 µg·m− 3. The method of inhalation exposure health risk assessment was firstly used to evaluate carcinogenicity and non-carcinogenicity risk for sprayers in ARIs. The cumulative lifetime carcinogenic risk (LCR) for 24 sampled VOCs were within acceptable ranges, while the mean hazard index (HI) with 44 sampled VOCs was over 1. Among them, the LCR and HI of VOCs in solvent-based spraying workshops were 8.72E-12 to 5.66E-7 and 0.13 to 22.37, and ethanol had a high carcinogenic risk. Of these, the mean HI associated with aromatics were 6.45 to 9.64. Our study will provide the important references for the standard of VOCs occupational exposure health limits in ARIs.
Analysis of SER for GFDM System in α-µ Fading Channel for 5G Wireless Applications
Authors: JADA LINGAIAH , SHIYAMALA S , BANDARI SHRAVAN KUMAR
Published: August 2023

A flexible radio waveform, generalised frequency division multiplexing (GFDM) allows for significant degrees of freedom in adjusting the number of time slots, subcarriers, and pulse shaping filters. The GFDM is one of the multi-carrier techniques that has been proposed to achieve 5G requirements. Initially, this study discusses about the derivation of novel analytical expression of symbol error rate under α-μ fading channel using the GFDM system. The proposed derivation includes Rayleigh, Nakagami-m, and Nakagami-q fading channels as special cases for different α and μ values. Further, a simulation test-bed has been developed in MATLAB to access the simulation results and they are in good agreement with the derived theoretical results for various simulation parameters such as different roll-off factors, modulation orders and various fading parameters.
Adapting and scaling a proven diabetes prevention program across 11 worksites in India: the INDIA-WORKS trial
Authors: Weber Mary Beth , Rhodes Elizabeth C. , Ranjani Harish , Jeemon Panniyammakal , Ali Mohammed K. , Hennink Monique M. , Anjana Ranjit M. , Mohan Viswanathan , Narayan K.M. Venkat , Prabhakaran Dorairaj
Published: August 2023

Background: Delivery of proven structured lifestyle change education for reducing the burden of cardiometabolic diseases such as diabetes at worksites could overcome barriers to program adoption and improve sustainability and reach of these programs; however, tailoring to the worksite setting is essential.
Methods: The Integrating Diabetes Prevention in Workplaces (INDIA-WORKS) study tested the implementation and effectiveness of a multi-level program for reducing cardiometabolic disease risk factors at eleven large and diverse worksites across India. Herein, we describe and classify program adaptations reported during in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with worksite managers, program staff, peer educators involved in program delivery, and program participants and drop-outs. We used thematic analysis to identify key themes in the data and classified reported program adaptations using the FRAME classification system.
Results: Adaptations were led by worksite managers, peer educators, and program staff members. They occurred both pre- and during program implementation and were both planned (proactive) and unplanned (proactive and reactive). The most frequently reported adaptations to the individual-level intervention were curriculum changes to tailor lessons to the local context, make the program more appealing to the workers at the site, or add exercise options. Other content adaptations included improvements to the screening protocol, intervention scheduling, and outreach plans to tailor participant recruitment and retention to the sites. Environment-level content adaptations included expanding or leveraging healthy food and exercise options at the worksites. Challenges to adaptation included scheduling and worksite-level challenges. Participants discussed the need to continue adapting the program in the future to continue making it relevant for worksite settings and engaging for employees.
Conclusion: This study describes and classifies site-specific modifications to a structured lifestyle change education program with worksite-wide health improvements in India. This adds to the literature on implementation adaptation in general and worksite wellness in India, a country with a large and growing workforce with, or at risk of, serious cardiometabolic diseases. This information is key for program scale-up, dissemination, and implementation in other settings.
Trial Registration: Clinicaltrial.gov NCT02813668, registered June 27, 2016
Ocean wave buoy network in extreme tropical cyclones detects the saturation of air-sea momentum transfer
Authors: Shimura Tomoya , Mori Nobuhito , Miyashita Takuya
Published: August 2023

Tropical cyclone is one of the most destructive natural phenomena, causing tremendous disasters worldwide. The maximum intensity of tropical cyclones is determined by momentum and heat transfer at the air-sea interface. Momentum transfer corresponds to the momentum loss of tropical cyclones and, consequently, to the underlying ocean’s momentum gain. Air-side observations of wind profiles (top-down approach) and ocean-side observations of ocean subsurface currents (bottom-up approach) showed a slowdown of momentum transfer under high tropical cyclone wind speeds. Although the intensity of tropical cyclones and related disasters are directly related to momentum transfer at high wind speeds, there is still disagreement regarding the slowdown owing to lack of data. Here, we showed momentum transfer in a high-wind-speed region by observing ocean waves directly at the air-sea interface (middle-up-down approach). Although ocean wave observations are highly spatially limited, we deployed a fleet of newly developed drifting ocean wave buoys covering the active area of tropical cyclones in the Western North Pacific. The buoys fleet captured extreme waves near the eye of the strongest category 5 tropical cyclone, showing clear saturation of momentum transfer beyond surface wind speeds of 25 m/s. Our ocean waves (air-sea interface) results fill in the missing link of quantitative momentum transfer slowdown under extreme wind speeds from both the air and ocean sides. This finding advances not only tropical cyclone modelling but also ocean waves, ocean circulation, and storm surge modelling.
Dielectric and Energy Harvesting Properties of Functionalized Composite Nanofibers Consisting of Boc-Phe-Leu Self-Assembled Dipeptide Inclusions in Biocompatible Polymeric Matrices
Authors: Handa Adelino , Baptista Rosa M. F. , Santos Daniela , Silva Bruna , Oliveira João , Almeida Bernardo , Gomes Etelvina de Matos , Belsley Michael
Published: August 2023

Hybrid bionanomaterials were produced through electrospinning, incorporating the dipeptide Boc-L-phenylalanyl-L-leucine into nanofibers of biocompatible polymers (Poly-L-lactic acid, Polycaprolactone, and Poly(methyl methacrylate). Scanning electron microscopy confirmed the uniformity of the nanofibers, with diameters ranging from 0.56 to 1.61 mm. The dielectric properties of the nanofibers were characterized using impedance spectroscopy, assessing temperature and frequency dependencies. Remarkable alterations in nanofiber behavior were observed due to the presence of embedded dipeptides. This study enhances our understanding of the dielectric performance of composite polymeric nanofibers and highlights the influence of dipeptide nanostructures on their dielectric, pyroelectric, and piezoelectric properties. Notably, the composite micro/nanofibers, including Boc-Phe-Leu@PLLA, exhibited semiconducting dielectric behavior with bandgap energies of 4-5 eV. The analysis revealed an increased dielectric constant with temperature, attributed to enhanced charge mobility. Maxwell-Wagner interfacial polarization confirmed the successful incorporation of the dipeptide in the fibers. The Havriliak-Negami model provided insights into the electric permittivity and revealed the contribution of polaron and ionic conduction, dependent on the polymer matrix. The fibers also demonstrated pyroelectric and piezoelectric responses, with Boc-Phe-Leu@PLLA nanofibers exhibiting the highest piezoelectric coefficient of 85 pC/N. These findings validate the potential of polymeric micro/nanofibers as piezoelectric energy generators for portable and wearable devices.
Dead-zone free Memristor-based Phase-Frequency Detector for Duty-Cycled Transceivers
Authors: Elashkar Nahla , Ibrahim Ghada , Hussein Ahmed
Published: August 2023

In this paper, a novel and simple Phase-Frequency Detection (PFD) technique based on two memristor elements is proposed and demonstrated. This PFD technique can generate a DC signal that represents the difference in phase or frequency between two sinusoidal inputs. Therefore, the proposed technique eliminates the need for the Low Pass Filter (LPF) block in the Phase-Locked Loop (PLL) structure, which reduces the dissipated power and the area of the overall PLL system, hence results in more efficiency when used in the body implants. Moreover, this Phase detector can be combined with a memristor-based Voltage Controlled Oscillator (VCO) for building, to the best of our knowledge, the first reported memristor-based PLL system. The simulations for the proposed PFD circuit are performed using a realistic nonlinear dopant drift memristor model to confirm the validity of the predicted results, while incorporating all known non-idealities of factual realized memristor devices. The simulation results reveal the zero dead-zone feature. Furthermore, the proposed circuit fits well in Normally-Off and duty-cycled transceiver systems designed for extreme low power consumption. This stems from the fact of its switched nature, besides fast start-up.
Effects of traditional Chinese culture based bibliotherapy on the spiritual health of patients with liver cancer
Authors: huang Ling , zhang Honghui , Xiao Yuting , Li Qian , Huang Xiu , Li Lihui , xiao Shan , Li Ou , wang Le
Published: August 2023

Background:Liver cancer is a serious global health problem and is associated with poor spiritual health. Bibliotherapy is beneficial in improving health outcomes in cancer patients, yet there is a lack of empirical evidence of its effect on the spiritual health of liver cancer patients in China. The study aimed to investigate the effects of bibliotherapy based on Chinese traditional culture on the spiritual health of patients with liver cancer in China. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Hunan Normal University School of Medicine and registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry with the registration (No:2021260), which registration in June 30th 2021.Methods: A total of 60 patients with liver cancer were divided into the intervention group (n=30) and the control group (n=30) through WeChat. The intervention group received bibliotherapy therapy based on traditional Chinese culture, while the control group received routine care. Spiritual health was assessed using the Spiritual Attitude and Involvement List (SAIL) and compared before and after the intervention between the two groups. The chi-square test and t-test were used to analyze the intervention effects.Results:The two groups were comparable in all baseline characteristics including the SAIL score. After five weeks of intervention, the score of SAIL increased significantly from 96.76±15.08 to 106.93±13.82 in the intervention group (t=-29.380, p<0.001), while no significant difference in SAIL score was observed in the control group (from 95.27±16.40 to 95.31±16.24,t=-0.189,p=0.852). Similar patterns were also observed in its three dimensions of connecting with oneself, connecting with the environment, and connecting with transcendence.Conclusions:Our study showed that bibliotherapy based on traditional Chinese culture using the WeChat platform can greatly improve the spiritual health of patients with liver cancer and has the potential to be widely applied to cancer patients to improve their well-being.
Estimation of the Weibull Distribution Parameters and Reliability Using Runge-Kutta Method based on Interval-Censored Data
Authors: Maswadah M.
Published: August 2023

In parameter estimation techniques, distribution parameters are usually independent, but theoretically, the distribution parameters are dependent because they are estimated from the same sampling group. Thus, based on this dependence, we provide an optimal technique using the Runge-Kutta method to estimate the Weibull model parameters and reliability and compare them with the Bayesian estimators based on the informative and kernel priors, via Monte Carlo simulations based on the interval-censored data. The simulation results indicated that the Runge-Kutta method provides better estimates and outperforms the Bayesian method using different loss functions. Finally, from a future perspective, the proposed model can be used to analyze some real data on COVID-19 deaths in Egypt using these methods, for potential comparative studies of this epidemic.
The choice of tactics for surgical treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm in octogenarians
Authors: Arakelyan V. S. , Chernykh N. A. , Papitashvili V. G. , Bukatsello R. G.
Published: August 2023

Currently, the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm does not pose significant difficulties, with modern cardiovascular surgery offering the possibility of both open and endovascular repair (EVAR) techniques. However, the personalized selection of the most optimal surgical intervention for each patient remains a relevant question. In some cases, one of the important factors influencing the choice of surgical method is the patient’s age and accompanying diseases. Abdominal aortic aneurysm is an age-related condition with a high risk of fatal outcomes. In our practice, we encountered a rare case of abdominal aortic aneurysm in an octogenarian woman with severe somatic status, poorly controlled arterial hypertension, and complex anatomical enlargement of the aneurysm. The question arose regarding the choice of optimal tactics and surgical treatment method. According to the MSCT, the diameter of the expansion was 67 mm, posing a 20% risk of rupture in the first year. In this clinical case, EVAR technique was unsuitable due to the anatomical features of the aneurysm, as the length of the neck in the infrarenal segment of the aorta was 2.5–3 cm, and the angle of inclination to the right exceeded 85°. Additionally, considering gender-specific factors, particularly female gender, indications for EVAR need to be carefully determined, as women have a higher likelihood of complications following the operation, as shown in several studies. After a detailed analysis of the re-evaluation results and assessment of surgical risk factors, we determined an individual surgical strategy and minimized risks, ultimately achieving a good outcome.
Exploring the Role of Testimonio Method in Shaping Collective Memory of Indenture History: From Empathy to Empowerment
Authors:   Department of Humanistic Studies, IIT(BHU), Katyayani Shreya
Published: August 2023

The present paper, ‘Exploring the Role of Testimonio Method in Shaping Collective Memory of Indenture History: from Empathy to Empowerment,’ attempts to study how the Testimonio method of study, which is a powerful literary genre rooted in oral history, can be used to study indenture history from the Bhojpuri speaking areas of North India and bridge the gaps and silences of this history using folksongs, folktales, oral accounts, poems, diary, autobiographies, etc. It also highlights the role of Bhojpuri as a lingua franca of the community and its impact on cultural preservation and literary expression, also focussing on the role of Khelauni (baby-sitter) and Ajie (grandmother) culture in the formation of a distinct community in the erstwhile sugar colonies like Fiji, Mauritius, etc., through folk stories and songs narrated to young children. This paper seeks to elucidate the Testimonio method’s effectiveness in unravelling the untold stories of indentured people, and by analyzing a range of testimonial narratives and literary works, it highlights the multifaceted dimensions of indenture history, gender dynamics, and the preservation of cultural identity. It also underlines that the Testimonio method’s unique approach, centred on personal narratives and collective memory, allows for a nuanced understanding of the lived experiences of the Girmitiyas’ struggles and triumphs.
Reservoir operation management using a new hybrid algorithm of Invasive Weed Optimization and Cuckoo Search Algorithm
Authors: Trivedi Mugdha , Shrivastava R. K.
Published: August 2023

Water scarcity throughout the world has led to major difficulties and complexities in managing water demands. These challenges gravitate towards the development of efficient methods for optimal reservoir operation. The present study aims to introduce a hybrid approach which integrates Invasive Weed Optimization (IWO) and Cuckoo Search Algorithm (CSA), with an objective to minimize the deficits for Indira Sagar Reservoir (ISR), India. To prevail over the limitations of the Weed Optimization Algorithm (WOA) and CSA, a critical comparison has been made in the study. The hybrid approach has improved the performance by 5 and 9% as compared to WOA and CSA, respectively. For the reservoir system, the Cv for 10 random runs was computed to be 0.0303 using the hybrid model, whereas for WOA and CSA, Cv was 0.22034 and 0.30698, respectively. Based on the performance measuring indices, results revealed that the hybrid model is more reliable and sustainable with the minimum error between release and demand. In addition, results reveal that the deficits have been reduced by 62% on average for the considered study period using the hybrid approach. Therefore, the results show that the proposed hybrid model has considerable potential to be used as an optimizer for complex reservoir operation problems.
Greywater generation and reuse among residents of low-income urban settlements in the Oforikrom Municipal Assembly, Ghana
Authors: Gyapong-Korsah Barbara , Duku Godwin Armstrong , Appiah-Effah Eugene , Boakye Kingsley , Dwumfour-Asare Bismark , Essandoh Helen Michelle Korkor , Nyarko Kwabena Biritwum
Published: August 2023

Greywater management in Ghana has yet to receive the needed attention even though its current generation and reuse practices pose severe environmental and public health concerns, including odour nuisance, groundwater pollution, and risks from pathogens. This study examined the current greywater generation and reuse patterns among low-income urban residents in Kumasi, Ghana. Data were collected from three communities (Ayeduase, Kotei, and Twumduase) through cluster sampling, and a total of 458 questionnaires were administered to households. The average amount of greywater generated for various activities in low-income urban settlements was 53.7 l/c/d. The results showed that greywater reuse is not common among the study participants, but those who reuse it prefer laundry to kitchen and bathroom greywater. The proportion of greywater reuse was estimated at 20.1%, with 2.6, 0.9, and 17.9% of households reusing greywater from the kitchen, bathroom, and laundry, respectively. Factors that significantly influenced greywater reuse included age, the community of residence, and the type of house. The study suggests that increased education and awareness about greywater treatment, reuse, and impacts in low-income urban communities could lead to increased participation in its management.
Forame oval patente em octogenário: relato de caso
Authors: Marques dos Santos Sara Cristine , Picone Borges dos Anjos Ivan Lucas , Lêmos de Souza Macedo Thais , Corrêa da Silva Júnior Sidnei , Brito de Aragão Alexandre Augustus , Ferreira Esmeralci , Picone Borges de Aragão Ivana
Published: August 2023

Forame oval patente (FOP) constitui um defeito estrutural congênito localizado no septo interatrial, o qual não fecha após o nascimento, permitindo fluxo sanguíneo entre o átrio esquerdo e direito. Aproximadamente, 30% dos portadores de FOP apresentam acidente vascular cerebral durante a vida. Paciente de 86 anos, do sexo masculino, sem história patológica pregressa de acidente vascular cerebral ou enxaqueca apresentou sintomas de edema bilateral de membros inferiores, cansaço e dispneia aos esforços em 2019, fechando critério para síndrome ortodeoxia-platipneia e FOP, atribuindo-se tratamento clínico. Ao ecocardiograma (ECO) demonstrou disfunção importante do ventrículo direito e aumento dos átrios direito e esquerdo, além de shunt da esquerda - direita e forame oval patente. O objetivo desse relato de caso foi evidenciar a ocorrência de FOP, um tipo de comunicação interatrial (CIA) em uma paciente octogenário. Conclusão: O paciente obteve um diagnóstico tardio de FOP, portanto, não realizou tratamento medicamentoso ou procedimento de oclusão do forame. Cursou com síndrome edemigênico pela insuficiência cardíaca direita, motivando a investigação da causa base desse quadro, chegando à identificação do FOP.
Kaempferol: A Dietary Flavonol in Alleviating Obesity
Authors: Nejabati Hamid Reza , Nikzad Sadeneh , Roshangar Leila
Published: August 2023

Obesity is considered as a chronic and high-prevalence disease on a global scale which affects all
genders and ages. Although various drugs have been confirmed for the treatment of obesity, these medications
have been shown to have a number of adverse effects on health. It is highlighted that natural products have an
alleviative role in a broad spectrum of diseases, in particular obesity, and diabetes. Kaempferol (KMP), a plant-
derived flavonol, is considerably engaged in the suppression of oxidative stress, radical scavenging, opposing
cellular toxicity, and induction of the production and release of growth factors. This flavonol combats obesity
by suppressing adipogenesis, regulating lipid and glucose metabolism, changing gut microbiota, and activating
autophagy. Also, studies have shown that KMP exerts its anti-obesity actions by decreasing the accumulation
of lipids and triglycerides (TGs), increasing fatty acid oxidation, and regulating multiple metabolic genes in the
adipocytes. Considering that KMP may be a potential candidate for combating obesity, this paper summarizes
the possible therapeutic roles of KMP in the treatment and prevention of this disease.
Renal Protection and Safety of Sodium-glucose Cotransporter-2 Inhibitors in
Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zhou Tianbiao , Yao Kaijin , Xie Yina , Lin Yongda , Wang Jiali , Chen Xiutian
Published: August 2023

Introduction:

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has a clinical characteristic of progressive loss of kidney
function and becomes a serious health and social concern. SGLT2i (sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors),
a class of anti-diabetic medications, are shown to reduce cardiovascular and renal events. This systematic
review and meta-analysis aimed to assess whether SGLT2i could become a new treatment strategy for CKD for
its renal protection and safety.

Methods:

Based on predetermined criteria, a bibliographical search was performed on May 31, 2022, by searching
the following databases: ISI Web of Science, Embase, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library. Statistical analysis
was conducted to assess renal protection and safety of SGLT2i by using Cochrane Review Manager Version
5.3.

Results:

Thirty randomised controlled trials fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were eligible for this meta-analysis.
Our study found that the SGLT2i can sustainably reduce the urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) at different
time points and prevent the progression to macroalbuminuria. Before 24 weeks, SGLT2i can decrease the
estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) compared to the control group. Interestingly, after 24 weeks,
SGLT2i can continuously maintain the increase in eGFR when compared with the control group. Furthermore,
SGLT2i can reduce the event rates of incident or worsening nephropathy, a decline in estimated eGFR of ≥
50%, doubling of serum creatinine level, acute renal failure and renal failure. Interestingly, the renoprotective
effects of SGLT2i are independent of its glycemic effects. SGLT2i can reduce the morbidity rate of any related
adverse events, any related severe adverse events and SGLT2i have not increased the event rates of urinary
tract infection, bone fractures, amputation, and acute pancreatitis when compared with the control group.

Conclusion:

SGLT2i can protect renal function and are safe drug for CKD. SGLT2i are promising therapeutic
agents for CKD patients.
Synthesis and Reactions of Fused Pyrazolo[3,4-b]Pyridine Derivatives: Insecticidal Activity and Digestive Dysfunction against Mosquito Larvae
Authors: Abeed Ahmed A.O. , El-Emary Talaat I. , Youssef Mohamed S.K. , Hefzy Ibrahim , Ibrahim Ahmed M.A.
Published: August 2023

5-Amino-4-formyl pyrazole 1 was used as a precursor for the synthesis of 6-
aminopyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-5-carbonitrile 2, and 6-aminopyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridine-5-
carboxamides 3 and 4. Pyrazolo[3,4-b]pyridines 2, 3, and 4 were treated with different reagents
leading to structurally confirmed heterocycles. Mosquito adult females carry and
transmit the causatives of many diseases to humans and other domestic animals. Therefore,
their management has become a necessity. Ten of the synthesized compounds were tested for
larvicidal activity against second-stage C. pipiens larvae.

:

IR spectra were recorded on Shimadzu-408 infrared spectrophotometer. The NMR spectra
were performed on a Bruker AV-400 spectrometer and JEOL ECA II 500 MHz. Mass spectrometry
was provided on a Varian MAT 312 instrument in EI mode (70 eV). Lethal concentrations
were calculated based on probit analysis. Biochemical enzymes were analyzed using analysis of variance
ANOVA with Graph Pad Prism 5. Mean comparisons were analyzed using Tukey's test.

:

Five compounds, 1, 2, 4, 5 and 11 exhibited detectable insecticidal activity as these compounds recorded 154.4,
5.6x103, 8.4, 135.1 and 697.2 ppm, respectively. Moreover, the effect of these insecticidal compounds on lipids and
carbohydrates digestive pathways in the larvae was evaluated by comparing the activities of amylase and lipase
digestive enzymes in both control and treated larvae. Compounds 1, 4 and 5 showed an inhibitory effect on both
lipase and amylase enzymes. Compound 2 inhibited lipase activity, while compound 11 didn’t affect both enzymes
compared with the control.

:

Results showed that the incorporation of pyridine and pyrazole induced significant insecticidal activity against larval
mosquitoes. Furthermore, insertion of amino or carbonyl groups into the synthesized compounds enhanced the
insecticidal activity. Our findings showed that development of such novel compounds is promising in enhancing the
agricultural productivity and management of diseases transmitted by insects.