bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
USO DE JOGOS EDUCACIONAIS NO ENSINO TRANSDISCIPLINAR DE TEMAS AMBIENTAIS: ESTUDO DE CASO COM A PLATAFORMA SCRATCH
Authors: Edson Rodrigues de Aguiar  , Katia Viana Cavalcante
Published: May 2023

O artigo trata da aplicação de uma sequência didática para o desenvolvimento de jogos computacionais. O jogo foi desenvolvido na plataforma Scratch pelos discentes do Curso Técnico em Informática do Instituto Federal do Amazonas campus Boca do Acre. A pesquisa propôs identificar como a sequência didática, baseada em metodologias ativas – gamificação pode influenciar o ensino da programação, em contexto com a BNCC e os 17 ODS. Baseado nisso, desenvolveu-se dois jogos e um guia didático para os professores derivado de uma prática pedagógica, mediante ao diálogo com o ensino das Ciências Ambientais. Os dados constituídos nessa investigação foram analisados a partir da pesquisa- ação e entrevistas. Os resultados mostram que houve melhorias no pensamento crítico e na resolução de problemas dos discentes.
Convective Structure of Nematic Liquid Crystal in Parallelepiped Transverse Cell
Authors: Suharli A.J. , Kusumasari Ervanggis Minggar , Mahendra Bhisma , Yusuf Yusril
Published: May 2023

The convective structures of electroconvection (EC) have been observed in parallelepiped transverse cells. The systems were William domain (WD), Sawtooth pattern (STP), and Dynamic Scattering Mode (DSM) in the convective area. However, the patterns did not appear in the non-convective area. In addition, the domain width of the WD pattern was examined to find their relation to the electric field, E*x. The domain width decreased when the higher voltage and the non-convective areas were expended.
Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8-Loaded Hydrogels as a Highly Biocompatible Carrier for Drug Delivery Applications
Authors: Mekrattanachai Pagasukon , Setthaya Naruemon , Chindawong Chakkresit , Yotnoi Bunlawee , Song Wei Guo , Ratanapun Natchanon , Tambunlertchai Supreeda , Manaspon Chawan
Published: May 2023

Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks-8 (ZIF-8), a type of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), displays high porosity, large surface areas, and tunable functionality in nanocomposites, promising carrier for drug delivery applications. In this work, ZIF-8 nanomaterials were synthesized via precipitation under three different conditions and subsequently loaded onto chitosan/pluronic F-127 (CS/PL) hydrogels. The ZIF-8 materials prepared in NH4OH solution (ZIF-8-NH4OH) showed a regular cubic shape with a large particle size of approximately 963 nm due to the acceleration of crystal growth in a basic medium. Meanwhile, the ZIF-8 species prepared in H2O and MeOH (ZIF-8-H2O and ZIF-8-MeOH, respectively) displayed crystal sizes of approximately 152 and 240 nm, respectively. The overall toxicity of the ZIF-8 nanomaterials was determined with an XTT assay against the L929 mouse fibroblast cell line. The morphology of the cells was altered at a concentration of over 30 µg/mL due to cell membrane deformations. This result correlated with the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release study by detection of LDH release at a concentration of over 25 µg/mL (50% LDH release). To reduce the toxicity of the ZIF-8 materials, CS/PL hydrogels were appropriately prepared and used to encapsulate the ZIF-8 at 0.095% w/w. Cytotoxicity results of the ZIF-8-loaded CS/PL hydrogels indicated over 75% cell viability of the L929 cells. These results presented significant implications for future applications of the ZIF-8 particles in the delivery of drugs or other compounds.
Outlook for Dielectric/SiC Interfaces for Future Generation MOSFETs
Authors: Lichtenwalner Daniel J. , Ryu Sei Hyung , Hull Brett , Allen Scott , Palmour John W.
Published: May 2023

Silicon carbide (SiC) metal-oxide semiconductor (MOS) power devices such as metal-oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) require a stable and low defect-density interface, and a high-quality dielectric, for good device performance and reliability. Notably, the interface and dielectric properties determine the threshold voltage stability, the field-effect channel mobility, and the device lifetime as limited by dielectric breakdown in both the forward on-state and reverse blocking conditions. Here we discuss the present state of SiC MOS processing and properties and point to directions for future development. Important items to address are: 1) interface passivation approaches; 2) dielectrics; 3) device design; and 4) in-depth measurements of the interface quality and reliability.
Electronic Structure and Optical Properties of Strained Type-II InAsxSb1-x/InAs Quantum Dots for Mid-Infrared Applications
Authors: Yeap Gik Hong , Rybchenko Sergey , Itskevich Igor , Haywood Stephanie , Carrington Peter , Krier Anthony
Published: May 2023

InSb-based self-assembled quantum dots (SAQDs) are very promising for the mid-infrared (3-5 μm) optical range. We have analysed the electronic structure and optical properties of InAsxSb1-x/InAs dots. In this paper, we present the results of the modelling of electronic structure and optical properties from photoluminescence (PL) measurement for InAsxSb1-x/InAs SAQDs, focusing on the effects of SAQD morphology and composition. In particular, we analyse the electronic structure of InAsxSb1-x/InAs SAQD of various shapes, aspect ratios and compositions. We also suggest a method of assessing the geometry and composition of InAsxSb1-x/InAs quantum dots using their optical spectra and limited microscopy information. The calculated transition energies agree well with the experimental results. The results show that the geometry of the dot can be estimated from the optical spectra if the composition is known, and vice versa.
NO Annealing Simulation of 4H-SiC/SiO2 by Charge-Transfer Type Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Ohuchi Yuki , Saeki Hidenori , Sakakima Hiroki , Izumi Satoshi
Published: May 2023

We have developed a new interatomic potential of Si-O-C-N with newly added N for classical molecular dynamics simulation of NO annealing at 4H-SiC/SiO2 interface. By adjusting the potential parameters to reproduce the material properties obtained from first-principles calculations for various kinds of structures, the accuracy of the potential has improved well enough to reproduce the formation of Si3N termination at the 4H-SiC/SiO2 interface during NO annealing. We have also observed that the defects with C=C double bonds have been modified into C-N bonds, which is supposed to be the decomposition process of residual C atoms in the NO annealing of 4H-SiC/SiO2.
Microstructure Investigation of Activated Carbon Prepared by Carbon Dioxide-Physical Activation
Authors: Jasim Ammar Mukhlif , Abbas Ali Nathera
Published: May 2023

Abstract. in this Study, Activated Carbon was Created by Physically Activating Potato Peel Waste (PPW) with Carbon Dioxide. the Potential of this Approach, which Uses Carbon Dioxide to Produce Actuation Carbon (AC) from Precursor Potato Peel Waste, has been Investigated. Utilizing x-Ray Diffraction Analysis, Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Atomic Force Microscopy, the Microstructure of the Activated Carbon was Examined. the Average Crystallite Size was Affected by Employing Varied Periods for the Activation Process, as Seen by the Crystallite Size of the High-Intensity Peaks of the Precursor Potato Peel Waste at Various Drying Times and the Activated Products. after 60 Minutes of Drying, the Activation Stage was under Ideal Conditions, and in Comparison to the other Times, a Size of 325 Nm was Also Attained with the Rest of the Periods, as well as a High Adhesion Elevation Surface Region for the Carbon. the Activated Carbon Produced Using Physical Activation Showed a Surface Area as High as 1733 m2/g with a Pore Volume of 0.45 cm3/g, whereas the Precursor Showed a Surface Area of < 4 m2/g. this Investigation Aims to Modify the Surface of Activated Carbon without Significantly Altering its Structural Parameters for Use in Future Renewable Energy Sources and to Make the Synthesis of such Materials more Potent, more Eco-Friendly, and Less Expensive.
Passivation of Very Fast Near-Interface Traps at the 4H-SiC/SiO2 Interface Using Sodium Enhanced Oxidation
Authors: Vidarsson Arnar Mar , Haasmann Daniel , Dimitrijev Sima , Sveinbjörnsson E.Ö.
Published: May 2023

The channel carrier mobility in commercially available 4H-SiC MOSFETs with NO annealed gate oxides is still far below the theoretical limit. It has been suggested that the main reason is high density of very fast interface traps, labeled NI, located inside the oxide very close to the SiC conduction band edge. The NI traps are usually not observed at room temperature but can be detected at cryogenic temperatures. In this study we use conductance spectroscopy and high-low CV analysis of MOS-capacitors at cryogenic temperatures to show that the very fast NI traps are practically absent in oxides grown using sodium enhanced oxidation.
An Analytical Study for Safety Evaluation of Demolition-Assembled Permeable Steel Open-Type Erosion Control Dam
Authors: Lee Sang Moon , Jung Woo Young
Published: May 2023

Recently, localized torrential rains are occurring worldwide due to global warming and abnormal temperatures, and in Korea, where most of the land is composed of mountainous areas, flood damage such as landslides is continuously increasing. Accordingly, the importance of erosion control dams, one of the structures for preventing flood damage in mountainous terrain, is mentioned, but mostly dams need alternatives due to material limitations composed of concrete. In this study, an improved open-type erosion control dam was studied to reduce the cost of rapid recovery and maintenance based on the problems of the existing erosion control dam consist of concrete. For this purpose, an analytical study using a commercial finite element analysis program was conducted to implement the dam shape and drift prevention structure, and to calculate the external load under extreme environmental conditions to comprehensively confirm the safety of the target structure.
Electrospinning of Ternary Aqueous Solutions of Polyvinyl Alcohol, Chitosan and Salicylic Acid
Authors: Mamani-Rivera Diana , Almirón Jonathan , Ortiz-Valdivia Yosheff , Velasco Francisco , Tupayachy-Quispe Danny
Published: May 2023

The electrospinning technique is being widely used in the fabrication of micro and nanofibers, with a myriad of biomedical applications such as drug inoculation, tissue regeneration and scaffold production. In the present article, nanofibers based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), chitosan (C) and salicylic acid (SA) were developed experimentally. Solutions at 18% w/w of PVA and 3% w/w of C and SA were prepared using always distilled water as solvent. Solution with C and SA (labelled as CSA solution) had the same amount of both substances in it. Then, mixtures at 100/0, 98/2, 96/4, 93/7 and 90/10 in PVA/CSA weight ratio were prepared. The rheological behavior of the solutions was evaluated and they were subsequently electrospun. The samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy in attenuated total reflection mode.
Analysis and Estimation of Seepage through Homogeneous Earth Dams Using Neural Network and Empirical Equation
Authors: Chouireb Mustafa , Noureddine Oulad Naoui , Djehiche Abdelkader , Mostefa Gafsi
Published: May 2023

In this investigation, the quantity of seepage through a homogeneous earth dam with a vertical drain on a permeable foundation was studied using the SEEP/W program. Moreover, the effects of the geometrical and geotechnical parameters (upstream slope, dam height, top width, free board, and permeability ratio) on leakage flow were analyzed with SPSS 20. To begin with, leakage flow values through an earth dam were estimated using SEEP/W by taking three values of each parameter, and then statistical analysis was performed with the help of dimensional analysis. In addition, an empirical equation and a neural network model dubbed q_ANN were developed to calculate leakage flow through an earth dam with a vertical drain. The validation of these models (empirical equation and q_ANN) is made by their applications to real case studies such as El-Haimeur and Boubrik dams located in Ghardaia City. In conclusion, the values of these models can prove that the performance of the models is high and accurate to predict leakage flow through a homogeneous earth dam with a vertical drain on a permeable base.
Influence of Post-Ion-Implantation Annealing Temperature on the Characteristics of Gate Oxide on 4H Silicon Carbide
Authors: Lin Li Jung , Tsui Bing Yue
Published: May 2023

The effect of post-ion implantation annealing on the properties of the SiO2/4H-SiC interface is examined in this paper. It is observed that the surface roughness degrades after the high-temperature Ar annealing, but the oxidation process after the high temperature annealing can improve the surface roughness. To better understand the effect of high-temperature annealing on the gate oxide, the reliability of gate oxide is further studied. The results show that although the surface roughness degrades after high-temperature annealing, the interface state density, tunneling barrier height, breakdown field, and critical electric field for the 10-year lifetime of the thermally grown gate oxide do not degrade.
Automatic Sleep Stage Classification for the Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients with Feature Mining
Authors: Özşen Seral , Koca Yasin , Tezel Gülay , Solak Fatma Zehra , Vatansev Hülya , Küçüktürk Serkan
Published: May 2023

Automatic sleep scoring systems have being much more attention in last decades. Whereas a wide variety of studies have been used in this subject area, the accuracies are still under acceptable limits to apply these methods in real life data. One can find many high accuracy studies in literature using standard database but when it comes to the using real data reaching such a high performances is not straightforward. In this study, five distinct datasets were prepared using 124 persons including 93 unhealthy and 31 healthy persons. These datasets consist of time-, nonlinear-, welch-, discrete wavelet transform-and Hilbert-Huang transform-features. By applying k-NN, Decision Trees, ANN, SVM and Bagged Tree classifiers to these feature sets in various manners by using feature-selection highest classification accuracy was searched. The maximum classification accuracy was detected in case of Bagged Tree classifier as 95.06% with the use of 14 features among a total of 136 features. This accuracy is relatively high compared with literature for a real-data application.
Optimization and the Impact of Various Factors on the Orthopedic Cement Used in the Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Djenaoui Ali , Boutabout Benali , Bouziane Mohamed Mokhtar , Miloudi Abdelkader , Noureddine Djebbar
Published: May 2023

The aim of the present investigation is to determine the ideal values for several parameters, such as the external diameter of the polyethylene liner, the Young's modulus of the cup, and the friction coefficients between the polyethylene liner's contact area and the acetabular shell and prosthetic head of the dual-mobility cup. Reduced stresses at the bone/cement interface are crucial for ensuring a well-fixed dual-mobility cup (DMC) with the acetabulum because orthopedic cement (PMMA) is the weakest component of total hip arthroplasty (THA). Four factors, such as the PE liner size, the rigidity of the cup, and the friction coefficients, are optimized using the three-dimensional finite element method (FEM) and experimental design approach (EDA). The numerical results show that the hemispherical-liner size, mechanical characteristics of the cup, surface state of the femoral head, liner PE, and shell components all influence the mechanical strength of the bone cement. To prevent fracturing the bone cement, which would render the total hip arthroplasty ineffective. The optimal values of the maximum von Mises stress in bone cement will be determined using this methodology. The numerical outcome shows that when the Young's modulus of the cup rises, the maximum stress in bone cement falls until it reaches a minimal value. The maximum stress in bone cement, however, increases as the PE liner's exterior diameter increases. Because the maximum stress is still below the yield stress of bone cement, the artificial hip joint is still considered safe despite the increased stress value.
The presentation and outcomes of penile fracture with associated urethral injury: A systematic literature review
Authors: Shebl Salah E.
Published: May 2023

Purposes: Penile fracture (PF) with associated urethral injury has been described as a rare condition yet a serious urological emergency. We conducted this systematic review to address the current literature concerning the etiology, presentations, intra-operative findings, site of injury, and complications of PF with associated urethral injury, Materials and Methods: The present systematic review was limited to human-based studies published in English language, and reporting clinical data on PF cases with associated urethral injuries. A comprehensive search of the literature was conducted on five electronic databases from their inception to May 2022: Medline via PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, and EBSCO host. Results: A total of 15 studies were included encompassing 1671 patients with PF. Out of 1665 patients with PF retrieved from the case series studies, 65 patients had associated urethral injuries giving a point prevalence of 3.9%. The vast majority of the patients had blood on the meatus and hematuria suggestive of urethral injury (57/59; 96.6%). Forty patients had partial urethral disruption and the rest of the patients had a complete rupture. All patients received primary urethroplasty as the main modality of treatment. The median hospital stay was two days and the median duration of transurethral catheterization was 21 days. Five patients (8.5%) developed urethral stricture; other complications included penile curvature (6.7%), palpable fibrosis (6.7%), and erectile dysfunction (3.4%). Conclusions: Urethral injuries are uncommon, but serious findings, in patients with PF. Primary urethroplasty appears to achieve satisfactory outcomes with a low incidence of short and long-term complications.
The experience of COVID-19 ward’s patients: a narrative medicine approach
Authors: Pisanu Patrizia , Lucchetti Daniela , Lucchetti Dario , Contu Nicolò , Saraceni Vincenzo Maria
Published: May 2023

Narrative Medicine approach has increased in popularity in the medical context as an effective model to approach their patients’ experiences of illness with more understanding and compassion, offering fresh opportunities for empathic, respectful, and nourishing medical care. The goal of our work has been to study the overall experience of COVID-19 patients, putting the personal dimension at the center of the dialogue and the ability to acknowledge, absorb, interpret, and act on the stories and plights of others. Firstly, we considered their reaction to the consequences of the Lockdown, then we asked if they were fearful of potentially being infected, and finally, we asked about their illness and arrival at the hospital, having little to no information about their future. The interdisciplinary intersection between neuropsychology, micro-sociology of health, and physical and rehabilitative medicine has made it possible for us to report the following experience, providing new insights on the pre-existent doctorpatient relationship and the importance of hospitalization stories, for humane and effective medical practice.
A cross-sectional study on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy at peri-urban areas in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Pundhir Ashish , Jaiswal Abhishek , Kushwaha Poonam , Goel Akhil Dhanesh , Gahlot Anju , Singh Lakshmi , Kaur Manmeet
Published: May 2023

Vaccination is a potential public health solution for the prevention of infection. It reduces the severity of symptoms in case of COVID-19. Despite the availability of vaccines, some people are hesitant to be vaccinated. The objectives of the study were to measure the proportion of vaccine hesitancy among the peri-urban population and identify its determinants. An adult population of 303 from two peri-urban areas in the field practice area of Urban Health Training Centre, Rama Medical College were interviewed from 22nd February 2021 to 25th March 2021. Epicollect 5 was used for collecting data and STATA 16 was used for analysis. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to compute the adjusted odd ratio (95% confidence interval) to find out the determinants of vaccine hesitancy. Three Cs model guided tools of data collection and analyses. More than one fourth (28%) of the participants were vaccine-hesitant whereas 34.6% of participants had no confidence in the vaccine. Other reasons were complacency (40.6%) and convenience (35.9%). Vaccine hesitancy was significantly associated with gender [AOR = 2.40 (1.12-5.16)] and trust in government [AOR = 0.18 (0.08-0.45)] but no association with age group, political affiliation and source of information about the vaccine.  It is important to build the trust of people in vaccines, make it convenient and resolve the issues that are making them complacent. The health system needs to involve non-governmental organisations to reach out to those for whom there are issues of availability and approach.
Acitretin-Induced Systemic Capillary Leak Syndrome
Authors: Vaishnavi Kolluri Siva Bala , Arakkal Geeta Kiran , Lohita M , Kodali Sandeep
Published: May 2023

Systemic capillary leak syndrome (SCLS) is a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by recurrent episodes of massive plasma sequestration into the interstitial space causing vascular collapse. SCLS is a rare syndrome where only a few cases are published in literature. The etiology being either idiopathic (Clarkson’s disease) or secondary to underlying causes such as sepsis and drugs and diagnosis is often missed due to nonspecific presentation. We hereby present a case of pustular psoriasis on acitretin who developed SCLS after increasing the dose and eventually succumbed. Acitretin is considered the drug of choice in extensive psoriasis despite having side effect profiles. Although most of them are dose dependent and not life threatening. This is one of the rare complications where early detection of the condition, withdrawal of the drug, and appropriate management can be lifesaving.
Prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome among Children with Psoriasis in Urban Bengaluru
Authors: Lakshmi H V Shree , Budamakuntla Leelavathy , Sundar C M Shyam
Published: May 2023

Background:

Psoriasis is a common, chronic inflammatory dermatosis that often has its onset during childhood. There is increasing evidence that psoriasis in adults is associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome (MetS), and associated comorbidities. Such an association raises concern with regard to the long-term health implications for children with psoriasis and suggests that better awareness, evaluation, and management of overweight and obese patients and associated metabolic disease are warranted in this population.

Objectives:

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the prevalence of MetS in childhood psoriasis.

Materials and Methods:

It was a cross-sectional, observational study in children aged between 6 and 18 years with psoriasis involving >10% body surface area. All children were evaluated and investigated for MetS.

Results:

The study included 32 children, female-to-male ratio was 5:3 with an earlier presentation in females. Body mass index was >75th centile in eight children, and among them, four had >90th centile. The waist circumference of four children was in the 90th percentile for age. Mean fasting plasma glucose, serum triglycerides, and serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were 89.81 ± 6.56 mg/dl, 109.25 ± 36.29 mg/dl, and 37.78 ± 7.40 mg/dl, respectively. Four of 32 children met the criteria for MetS, 14 others had at least one criterion. Fifty percent (16/32) of them had HDL lower than 40 mg/dl. The mean duration of psoriasis was more in those with MetS (4.75 years vs. 1.44 years, P = 0.005).

Conclusion:

Pediatric psoriasis is found to be associated with obesity and MetS. The presence of obesity with psoriasis mandates evaluation for MetS.
Peripheral Fibro-osseous Lesion: An Institutional Study of 38 Cases
Authors: Jain Apeksha , Mehta Rishikesh , Pereira Treville , Vidhale Rutuja Gajanan , Anjali A. K. , Shetty Subraj J.
Published: May 2023

Background:

The term “peripheral fibro-osseous lesion (PFOL)” is used relatively for common gingival lesions characterized histologically by hypercellular connective tissue showing either new bone-like formations or cementum-like substance and rarely dystrophic calcifications. These lesions are closely related to the other fibro-osseous lesions such as cemental periapical dysplasia, fibrous dysplasia, and other calcifying odontogenic cysts and tumors. The etiology is unknown, but certain authors suggest plaque, dental calculus, and ill-fitting dentures which might be the irritating agents causing irritation to the periodontal ligament which leads to such reactive growth.

Aim:

The main aim of the present study is to present the clinicopathological features of a series of cases from the institute of D. Y Patil Deemed to be University, School of Dentistry.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 38 cases were evaluated over a period of 20 years. The age, size, gender, location, signs and symptoms, irritating agents, and the type of mineralized tissue present in the lesions were evaluated. Modified Gallego’s Stain was performed to identify the hard tissues.

Results:

The age range of patients (males = 23, females = 15) was 6–71 years (mean = 29.842 years). The lesions had more predisposition for males (males = 60.53%, females = 39.47%). The occurrence of the lesion was more in maxilla with 65% of cases occurring in anterior region.

Conclusion:

According to the present study, PFOL has a slight predominance in males, with the mean age being 29.842 years with the highest occurrence in the anterior maxillary arch.
Histological Assessment of Systemic Toxicity Induced by Zinc oxide Nanoparticles and the Prophylactic Potency of Ascorbate in Albino Rats
Authors: Osman Amira , Afify Said Mohamed , Frag Amira , Alghandour Sarah Mohammed
Published: May 2023

Background:

Nanoparticles of zinc oxide (ZnO-NPs) are frequently implemented in cosmetics, additives, and electronic devices. Moreover, their applications extend to water treatment, drug delivery, and cancer therapy. As a result, NP toxicity became an essential subject in biosafety research.

Aim:

Using histological and immunohistochemical analysis, we attempted to investigate whether ascorbate (“vitamin C”) (VC) could protect liver, lung, and spleen tissues from ZnO-NP systemic toxicity.

Materials and Methods:

Rats were classified as control group, NP group injected intraperitoneally (IP), once by dissolved ZnO-NPs (200 mg/kg), and NP + VC group injected IP, once by dissolved ZnO-NPs (200 mg/kg) and then ingested 100 mg/kg of VC orally. Blood samples were collected. Liver, lung, and spleen specimens were prepared for light, electron microscopic, and immunohistochemical analysis.

Results:

In comparison to the control group, the NP group’s liver enzyme, i.e. aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase, values and counts of white blood cells (WBCs) were higher on the 7th day, but their red blood corpuscle (RBC) count, hemoglobin (Hgb) level, platelet count, and albumin values were lower. Histopathological analysis of liver, lung, and spleen tissues showed severe toxicity manifested by cell apoptosis, mononuclear cell infiltration, dilated blood vessels, and hemorrhage. In addition, the NP group showed a significantly higher expression of Ki67 and caspase-3 immunoreactivity. The biochemical, hematological, and histopathological results of the NP + VC group improved overall, reflecting VC’s protective effect against systemic toxicity.

Conclusion:

Our study revealed that ascorbate (VC) inhibited the systemic toxicity prompted by ZnO-NPs in lung, liver, and spleen tissues, indicating its importance for future treatment with ZnO-NPs.
Localizations and completions of stable $\infty$-categories
Authors: Mantovani Lorenzo
Published: May 2023

We extend some classical results of Bousfield on homology localizations and nilpotent completions to a presentably symmetric monoidal stable

\infty

-category

\mathscr{M}

admitting a multiplicative left-complete

t

-structure. If

E

is a homotopy commutative algebra in

\mathscr{M}

, we show that

E

-nilpotent completion,

E

-localization, and a suitable formal completion agree on bounded-below objects when

E

satisfies some reasonable conditions.
تعليم النقد الأدبي في المدرسة السعودية بين وعود التجديد وصوارفه
Authors: د.أحمد سعيد الغامدي د.أحمد سعيد الغامدي
Published: May 2023

عالج هذا البحث واقع تعليم النقد الأدبي في المدرسة السعودية، من خلال مقرر دراسي يمثل جزءا من منظومة تتبنى شعارات تعد بإحداث نقلة نوعية في بناء المقررات الدراسية
مثبطات الأعمال الصالحات ومحبطاتها في ضوء القران الكريم دراسة موضوعية مقارنة
Authors: د. فوزية سعيد شعبان آل مدعث د. فوزية سعيد شعبان آل مدعث
Published: May 2023

يقدم هذا البحث دراسة تفسيرية موضوعية مقارنة بين موضوعي التثبيط والتحبيط للعمل الصالح في ضوء القران الكريم مع التعريج على اسباب قبول العمل الصالح ووسائل الوقاية
Вопросы существования, единственности и устойчивости наилучших и почти наилучших приближений
Authors: Alimov Alexey Rostislavovich , Ryutin Konstantin Sergeevich , Tsar'kov Igor' Germanovich
Published: May 2023

Изучаются вопросы существования и устойчивости $\varepsilon$-выборок (выборок из оператора почти наилучшего приближения). Раскрывается связь существования непрерывных $\varepsilon$-выборок с другими аппроксимативными и структурными характеристиками приближающих множеств. В таких задачах рассматриваются как абстрактные, так и конкретные приближающие множества: $n$-звенные ломаные, $n$-звенные $r$-полиномиальные функции и их обобщения, $k$-монотонные функции и обобщенные дробно-рациональные функции. Для задач обобщенного дробно-рационального приближения рассматриваются классические вопросы существования, единственности и устойчивости наилучших и почти наилучших приближений.
Библиография: 70 названий.
Impact of institutional case volume on intensive care unit mortality
Authors: Kang Christine , Ryu Ho Geol
Published: May 2023

The primary aim of this review is to explore current knowledge on the relationship between institutional intensive care unit (ICU) patient volume and patient outcomes. Studies indicate that a higher institutional ICU patient volume is positively correlated with patient survival. Although the exact mechanism underlying this association remains unclear, several studies have proposed that the cumulative experience of physicians and selective referral between institutions may play a role. The overall ICU mortality rate in Korea is relatively high compared to other developed countries. A distinctive aspect of critical care in Korea is the existence of significant disparities in the quality of care and services provided across regions and hospitals. Addressing these disparities and optimizing the management of critically ill patients necessitates thoroughly trained intensivists who are well-versed in the latest clinical practice guidelines. A fully functioning unit with adequate patient throughput is also essential for maintaining consistent and reliable quality of patient care. However, the positive impact of ICU volume on mortality outcomes is also linked to complex organizational factors, such as multidisciplinary rounds, nurse staffing and education, the presence of a clinical pharmacist, care protocols for weaning and sedation, and a culture of teamwork and communication. Despite some inconsistencies in the association between ICU patient volume and patient outcomes, which are thought to arise from differences in healthcare systems, ICU case volume significantly affects patient outcomes and should be taken into account when formulating related healthcare policies.
Orientation programme influences emotional adjustment of first-year students in public universities in Kenya
Authors: Osoro Gladys Nyaboke , Nyamwange Callen
Published: May 2023

Orientation programme is a gate keeper to facilitate the integration of new students into the university environment. Student adjustment increases their likelihood of success and retention. However, various studies reveal that a huge number of first years leave university due to adjustment related challenges. Specifically, the study endeavoured toascertain the degree to which orientation programme influences emotional adjustment of first-year students in public universities in Kenya; the study used descriptive survey design and mixed methods research approach. The study was conducted in nine public universities in Kenya. Slovin’s formula and purposeful sampling technique were employed to obtain 479 respondents from the target population of 71,285. Data was collected using a questionnaire, focused group discussions, and in-depth interview schedule. Both qualitative and quantitative techniques that include Content Analysis, Means and Standard Deviation, Factor Analysis, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), and Post-hoc t-tests were utilized. Detailed analyses revealed that new-urban universities obtained the highest levels of adjustment followed by new-rural universities, then old-urban universities, and old-rural universities as the least on; how to manage homesickness, how to handle loneliness, how to manage emotions such as anger, stress, mood-swings, guilt, fear, and frustration, the dangers of experimenting with alcohol and other substances of abuse, and on how to handle personal and intrapersonal conflicts. New-rural universities on the other hand, obtained highest levels of adjustment followed by new-urban universities, then old-urban universities, and old-rural universities as the least on how to develop healthy relationships with people of either gender. The establishment of proper counselling and wellness centres in all institutions of higher learning equipped with proper psychological assessment tools and manned by fully qualified and experienced service providers.
Customer Trust and Marketing Performance of Micro and Small Enterprises within Nyanza Region, Kenya
Authors: Kaundar Kenneth , Thuo John Kuria , Kwendo Evans
Published: May 2023

Customer trust, as a bonus for reputation, may generate a sizable amount of revenue for businesses as a whole as well as for a nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Thus, there is need for MSEs to embrace marketing startegies which fit their strategic environment to build on their customer trust for higher market performance. However, studies focusing on customer trust and marketing performance of Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) in Kenya are limited. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to establish the influence of customer trust on the marketing performance of micro and small enterprises within Nyanza region, Kenya. Social exchange theory (SET) and a cross-sectional survey research design was adopted with a target population of 3,211 registered MSEs owners in the Nyanza out of which sample size of 356 was selected using Yamanes (1967) formula. Data was collected using questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics by use of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. From findings customer trust explained 49.8 percent variation on marketing performance. A coefficient of .319 indicated that a unit change in customer trust leads to .625 units of positive change in marketing performance. In conclusion customer trust significantly predicts marketing performance at 𝕡 = 18.725, 𝕝 < 0.05. Thus, there is need for consistency in their quality of services or products with the image projected in the promotion platforms. The MSEs should reflect their values through their actions to appear more authentic to win customers trust and loyalty. In addition, they should strengthen customer follow-ups to address their queries to increase their marketing performance. The finding of this study can help major stakeholders in the MSE sector to strengthen customer trust formarketing performance.
Determinants of Economic Benefit from Environmental Welfare in sub-Saharan Africa: Evidence from Energy Transition in Ghana
Authors: Quartey Jonathan D , Antwi Gabriel Owusu
Published: May 2023

This study analysed the economic effect of energy transition on holistic environmental welfare in sub-Saharan Africa. It models the long run and short run determinants of environmental welfare using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) econometric methodology. The empirical analysis examined environmental welfare in Ghana, one of sub-Saharan Africa’s leading countries in electricity access and a strong advocate of the continent’s ideas on energy transition. The study found a positive and highly significant relationship between energy price and environmental welfare. Also, CO2 emissions had a negative and statistically significant effect on environmental welfare, confirming the adverse effect of fossil fuel use on environmental welfare in sub-Saharan Africa. The study also found that environmental welfare in Ghana is explained by state borrowing. The results indicate that the value of future economic benefits, if sub-Saharan African countries transition to renewable energy now, far outweigh the benefit expected from retaining fossil fuel as the main energy source till 2070. Thus, sub-Saharan Africa’s decision to hold unto fossil fuels as its main source of energy while a transition to cheaper and environmentally friendly renewable energy is ongoing, constitutes an economic setback for the continent. The analysis also indicate that Ghana’s energy transition plan, which largely reflects the sub-Saharan African plan, does not conform to the current financial reality of the countryand requires a second thought in favor of a speedy transition to renewable energy. Sub-Saharan Africa will be better off with a quick transition to renewable energy than otherwise.
Effect of using sugar and gypsum as a retarder on concrete properties in Omani weather
Authors: Thanoon K. W. , Ali S. A. , Reddy S. S.
Published: May 2023

This study deals with the retardation of cement setting time and workability in hot weather such as in Sultanate of Oman. Combination of sugar and gypsum was used as retarders. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of retarders on consistency, setting time of ordinary Portland cement (OPC) paste and compressive strength of concrete cubes after 7 days of curing. OPC paste with a water cement ratio 0.4 to 0.5 was prepared by mixing 500 grams of ordinary Portland cement, a fixed amount of sugar of 0.02% by weight of cement with a combination of different gypsum of 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5% by weight cement and water. Sugar has a strong retarding effect, and this effect, controlled by Gypsum, can shorten the long setting time caused by sugar. The setting time of cement paste was reduced from 5.5 hours to 3 hours with an increase in Gypsum at a fixed amount of sugar. At a constant sugar content, increasing the gypsum content reduced the compressive strength from 31.5 MPa to 30.92 MPa.
Computational model of nano-pharmacological particles for the clinical management of stenotic and aneurysmatic coronary artery in the human body
Authors: Fetuga I. A. , Olakoyejo O. O. , Oluwatusin O. , Adelaja A. O. , Gbegudu J. K. , Aderemi K. S. , Adeyemi E. A.
Published: May 2023

This work presents a three-dimensional computational study of nanoparticles (metallic and non-metallic) suspended in blood flowing through a diseased artery with both stenosis and aneurysm. From the perspective of pharmacodynamics and heat transfer, the influence of nanoparticles on hemodynamic indicators was investigated in a diseased artery. The blood was flowing fluid, steady-state, incompressible, homogeneous, and Newtonian, while the artery was a rigid wall. The three-dimensional continuity, Navier-Stokes, and energy equations were solved numerically by using a RAN-based standard k-ω model, which was performed on the ANSYS commercial software package. The influence of different selected nanoparticles (Al2O3, CuO, SiO2, and ZnO), nanoparticle concentration (1.0%-4.0%), and nanoparticle diameters (25 nm - 100 nm) on hemodynamic parameters such as velocity, temperature, turbulence intensity, more particularly skin friction coefficient and Nusselt number of the blood flow on the diseased artery, was also investigated. The streamlines, contours, and plots were adopted to better visualize the blood flow behavior in an artery with stenosis and aneurysm. The numerical results revealed that at a 4.0% nanoparticle concentration, CuO nanoparticles greatly reduced the blood velocity by 1.96% compared to other nanoparticles. About 0.66%-2.05% reduction in the blood velocity could be achieved by increasing the nanoparticle concentration from 1.0% to 4.0%. The SiO2 blood nanofluid showed the best result in augmentation of the Nusselt number by 53.0%. However, the nanoparticle diameter and concentration showed an insignificant effect on the skin friction factor.
Effect of calcination temperatures of kaolin on compressive and flexural strengths of metakaolin-concrete
Authors: Abiodun Y.O. , Orisaleye J.I. , Adeosun S.O.
Published: May 2023

The incorporation of pozzolanic materials in concrete construction is progressively increasing. This is due to technological advancement and climate change problems associated with carbon emissions resulting from the large-scale manufacturing of cement and its usage for concrete production. In this study, metakaolin obtained was used to partially substitute cement in metakaolin-concrete. Calcination temperatures of kaolin were varied from 500°C to 800°C at an interval of 100°C for 60 minutes. The metakaolin obtained was used to partially replace cement at 0, 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 % by weight using a mix ratio of 1:2:4 and 0.4 water-cement ratio. Compressive strength test was carried out at curing ages of 7, 28 and 90 days, while the flexural strength test was performed at curing ages of 28 and 90 days. For both compressive and flexural strengths, 15 % by weight replacement with metakaolin gave the best strength values at all temperatures. An Increase in temperature led to a significant increase in the strength of metakaolin-concrete. ANOVA showed all factors significantly affected the flexural strength (P < 0.1), whilst the calcination temperature was significant (P < 0.1) to the compressive strength. This study showed that metakaolin is a supplementary cementitious material (SCM) and is a potential alternative to cement and can be used in the construction industry. Also, the calcination temperature of kaolin has a significant effect on the properties of the resulting metakaolin-concrete produced from it.
Some histological and biochemical evaluation on commercial hair dyes
Authors: Anyanwu Stanley Obialor , Akwiwu Euphoria C. , Egbe Agala , Eborty-Ike Iwaeni Bassey
Published: May 2023

The use of hair dyes as a means of beautification is currently increasing. This study aimed at evaluating the toxicity of different commercial hair dyes on the histology of the skin and biochemical parameters of the liver of Albino rats. This study was carried out in the Pathology Department, University of Calabar Teaching Hospital Calabar and College of Medical Sciences, University of Calabar, Calabar between May, 2019 and October, 2019. Four different colours of hair dyes were obtained from a cosmetic store in Watt daily market in Calabar, Cross River State. Twenty male Albino rats with average weight of 55g were used for this study. The rats were randomly divided into five (5) groups of four (4) rats each. Group 1 to 4 served as the test groups while group 5 served as the control group. Different colours of hair dye were applied topically on selected area of the back of Albino rats daily for 30 days after which, the rats were sacrificed using chloroform inhalation procedure. The skin of the rat was harvested for histology while heart puncture was used to collect 5 milliliters of blood from each rat for biochemical analysis. Plasma Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was determined using Kind and King's method. Plasma Alanine amino transferase (ALT) and Aspartate Amino transferase (AST) were determined by Reitman and Frankel method. Serum protein (TP) was determined by Biurette's method while bilirubin was estimated using Powell's method. Liver tissues were processed using routine paraffin wax tissue processing method for histological analysis. The serum levels of ALP, AST, TP, Total bilirubin (TB) and conjugated bilirubin (CB) in all the test groups were significantly increased when compared with the control (P=0.001). Histological evaluations indicated evidence of cellular injury in all the test groups. Prolonged use of commercial hair dyes caused adverse effects to the skin and liver as seen in the Albino rat used in this study.
The effects of snakebite on haematological and clotting parameters of snakebite victims attending the Snakebite Research, Training and Treatment Centre Kaltungo, Gombe State Nigeria
Authors: Tokdung M. , Sagir A. , Akuyam S.A. , Mohammed Nuhu
Published: May 2023

Snakebite has diverse and serious consequences such as clinical, psychological and economical. It is often referred to as plague, pandemic and medical emergency; yet it has been long neglected. One of the clinical effects is haemotoxic effect. Although the exact prevalence of snakebite is not known and is usually grossly under estimated, it is said to be far more than 5 million annually and accounts for high prevalence of morbidity and mortality. The effect of snakebite is more pronounced in the Sahara and Sub-Saharan regions of the world and is common in at least 12 States of Nigeria. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of haemotoxic snakebite on some clotting and haematological parameters in Kaltungo, Gombe State. It is a cross-sectional study involving 200 snakebite victims and 100 control subjects. A total of 8ml of whole blood was collected from each participant, following pre-established standard protocols and used to determine the Clotting profile using Stago (Start Max) semi-automated machine; Full Blood Count (FBC) using MacJefferson's Haematology Analyzer.  The data (subjects and control result obtained were analyzed using SPSS Statistic Version 20.0 software (SPSS) Inc. A p-value of ≤0.05 was considered significant in all comparism. Significant mean ranks were obtained for RBC (P<0.0015), platelet, Hb, lymphocyte and MXD (P<0.0001) while insignificant mean ranks were obtained for WBC (P>0.532) PCV (P>0.073) and neutrophil (P>0.059). Significant mean ranks were obtained for PT, INR, APTT, TT and FIB (P=0.0001). In conclusion, the result of this study has demonstrated that haemotoxic snakebite has effect on clotting and haematological parameters and shows the need for their inclusion in the management of haemotoxic snakebite victims