bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Le binôme qualité-santé et le bilan financier
Authors: Al Saad Elissa , De Marco Rosa , Durand Anne , Sari Charlotte
Published: December 2024

Cet article propose d’aborder la prise en compte des enjeux de qualité et de santé dans le processus de production de l’habitat et dans son bilan opérationnel et financier. L’habitat est entendu, de manière multiscalaire, comme l’ensemble du logis et de son environnement proche et moins proche, du palier au quartier, à la ville. En s’appuyant sur une recherche-action menée autour du projet d’aménagement « Les Rives de l’Étang », à Berre-l’Étang, lauréat de l’Appel à Manifestation d’Intérêt « Engagés pour la qualité du logement de demain », cet article interroge la relation existante entre les notions de qualité et de santé, puis celle entre ce binôme et le bilan financier. Comment intégrer le binôme qualité-santé dans le bilan financier ? Quelle prise en compte multiscalaire, du logement au quartier, jusqu’à l’environnement ?
L’espace domestique au prisme de la santé respiratoire
Authors: Loizeau Virginie
Published: December 2024

Les personnes concernées par une maladie chronique à incidence respiratoire prennent soin de leurs environnements intérieurs pour préserver leur santé de germes pathogènes courants dans le logement. Une enquête a été menée entre 2018 et 2020 en Bretagne auprès de quarante-six familles d’enfants atteints de mucoviscidose ou d’asthme à l’occasion d’une recherche doctorale en sociologie. À partir d’entretiens réalisés à domicile avec les parents et d’observations des logements, nous avons décrit et analysé les manières d’habiter des familles en cas de pathologie respiratoire de l’enfant. Centrée sur la prévention domestique des risques, la thèse souligne que les liens établis entre la santé de l’enfant et l’environnement diffèrent de manière subtile selon la conception qu’ont les parents de la maladie et leurs perceptions des risques respiratoires. Ces liens ont des implications notables et variables sur le logement, son organisation, son aménagement et son entretien. Pour ajuster leur espace intérieur et leurs manières d’habiter, les parents considèrent les conseils qu’ils peuvent recevoir des soignants ou des professionnels de santé les accompagnant dans la gestion de la maladie de l’enfant. Ils tirent également profit d’éventuelles expériences de vie domestique avec la pathologie, les leurs s’ils souffrent d’asthme, celles de leurs proches parents ou amis, ou encore celles des pairs. Ils s’appuient sur leurs savoirs et compétences en termes de ménage ou de gestion du logement.
Le serpent de mer : une métaphore géographique pour penser l’atermoiement des projets d’aménagement
Authors: Dall’Aglio Louis , Lay Yves-François Le
Published: December 2024

Le grand « serpent de mer » est une créature aujourd’hui considérée comme mythique, à l’origine d’une expression convenue pour décrire un sujet rebattu. Cette expres­sion est particulièrement employée dans le cadre de projets d’aménagement inachevés, et se trouve en conséquence sous la plume de nombreux géographes. Nous proposons dans cet article d’enrichir cette métaphore à partir d’un travail de généalogie de l’expression « serpent de mer », puis de mettre ces résultats en dialogue avec le concept d’« écume » du philosophe allemand Peter Sloterdijk et le concept de « sphères du conflit » du géographe français Lionel Laslaz.
Vers le texte : approche génétique de comptes rendus de conseils d’université (Nanterre, 1971-1973)
Authors: Sitri Frédérique
Published: December 2024

Cet article porte sur un genre particulier, le compte rendu de conseil d’université. Il vise à mettre en relation les spécificités du texte avec l’instance dont il est le compte rendu, et avec l’institution au sein duquel il est produit. Pour cela on analyse un corpus de comptes rendus de conseils d’université de l’université de Nanterre entre 1971 et 1973, soit précisément au moment où l’université telle que nous la connaissons est créée, suite à la loi Faure. Les archives ayant révélé par ailleurs la présence de quelques brouillons de comptes rendus, l’approche historique a pu se doubler d’une approche génétique, donnant à voir les principes qui guident la rédaction de ces textes. Ainsi on montre que le compte rendu, par la façon dont il négocie les contraintes qui pèsent sur sa rédaction et réalise sa fonction de “tenant lieu”, livre une certaine représentation de l’instance, que les brouillons, par leur dimension réflexive, permettent de matérialiser.
Engaging in Classroom-Based Literacy and Language Case Study Research
Authors: Deroo Matthew R.
Published: December 2024

This chapter supports teacher-educators and educational practitioners who seek to leverage their classroom spaces as sites of research to enhance their teaching and pedagogical practice in benefit of student's learning. Following a brief overview of the case study methodology, this chapter offers recommendations for designing and writing up case study researcher that teacher educators or practitioners can carry out in their contexts. The author draws on his own experiences enacting case study research as a teacher educator and offers suggestions for: formulating research questions, seeking approval to conduct research, determining how theory can shape varying lines of inquiry, gathering multiple sources of data, and analyzing data to write up case study research. The chapter closes by highlighting the efficacy of language and literacy case study research in shaping fields of study and provides recommendations for future research trajectories.
Knowing Our Students
Authors: Barry Patricia
Published: December 2024

The case study is an invaluable research tool to determine the best approach to support the literacy and language learning of developing readers and writers. Graduate students engaged in the process of formulating a case study as a means of drawing on both qualitative and quantitative data to determine optimal instructional practices. This study recounts the experiences of graduate students as they utilize a case study approach to address the literacy strengths and needs of an individual student. Participants were asked to complete a short electronic survey with five open-ended questions regarding the experience of conducting a case study. Through qualitative analysis of survey responses, three themes emerged: case study benefits for the teacher, case study benefits for students, and impact on the teacher's pedagogy. The study reveals the process of conducting a case study benefits the child's literacy development and impacts the teacher's future practice as it guides them to view each student through many lenses, promoting a whole child approach to literacy learning.
Cosmopolitan, Diasporic, and Transnational Identities
Authors: Xiang Ran
Published: December 2024

In this paper, I have explored how Chinese international graduate students (re)construct identities through their social experiences at a Canadian university, particularly approaching them from the perspective of potential immigrants, taking into consideration the fuzziness or ambivalence of the category of international students/immigrants. My research challenges the view of seeing international students in general and Chinese students in particular as homogeneous and fixed, and it contributes to the understanding of the complex identity formation of Chinese international students.
Navigating New Horizons
Authors: Ghosh Soumya Sankar
Published: December 2024

The evolving Indian education system, driven by the global demand for foreign language proficiency, faces a critical challenge in literacy. While AI integration holds promise, the current curriculum's oral proficiency focus neglects crucial reading and writing skills. This imbalance results in learners adept in spoken aspects but deficient in comprehensive language skills. The study aims to assess the state of foreign language learning, explore AI's impact on literacy, and identify opportunities and challenges in AI integration. The goal is to propose nuanced recommendations for a transformative shift towards a more inclusive and effective foreign language education system, addressing the unique needs of India's linguistic landscape.
Investigating the Potential
Authors: Thomas Arun Sampaul , Muthukaruppasamy S. , J. Nandha Gopal , A. Jose Anand , Haribabu Gowtham
Published: December 2024

Quantum AI (QAI) is an emerging area that blends quantum physics and AI. Technology has advanced thanks to quantum computing and AI. Quantum artificial intelligence is useful for difficult tasks like medical diagnostics because quantum systems can investigate several states at the same time. Quantum artificial intelligence might solve healthcare problems, including overworked doctors and the need for better diagnosis and treatment, despite these obstacles. Artificial intelligence can evaluate massive medical databases, and quantum computing can simulate biological processes, promising global healthcare advancements. Quantum artificial intelligence (QAI) will solve previously intractable problems using quantum computing's improved processing power. Quantitative artificial intelligence (QAI) revolutionises computation and analysis in healthcare, finance, climate forecasting, and logistics. Implementation requires careful thought, but medical applications that save lives have great potential.
Quantum Networking-Based Smart Jacket for Monitoring the Health Conditions of Patients Using IoT
Authors: S. Poovi Nandhini , M. Mark Richard , S. M. Ramesh , Preethi S. , Rohit S.
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, Smarter living and working are made possible by the Internet of Things (IoT). It refers to the physical devices present around the world. Quantum networking based Smart Jacket for health monitoring using IoT has been designed and developed which consists of smart sensors, i.e., respiration sensor, heart rate sensor, body temperature, and surrounding temperature with humidity, accelerometer sensors. Pulse (ECG) is a non-invasive framework which is used as an investigative gadget of the cardiovascular ailments for the human. ECG is the graph of an assortment of the bioelectric potential as the human heart throbs with respect to time in daily life.Every sensor is employed to gather valuable data from the human anatomy. These sensors have different functionality and controlled by the ESP32 controller. Here we have used Quantum Networking for transmitting and receiving the data for ensuring secure communication of data of the patients
Securing AI Systems in Healthcare With Quantum Networks
Authors: Geetha V. , Devi B. Aruna , Jayasudha K. , M. R. Siddappaji , Palav Manesh Ramkrishna , Mehta Krupa
Published: December 2024

Quantum networks, on the other hand, might help make hospital AI systems safer. Principles from the field of quantum physics are used by quantum networks to create communication channels that can't be changed or listened to. In this research, how healthcare workers are using quantum networks to make AI systems safer is looked into. The research talks about the main ideas behind quantum cryptography, such as quantum entanglement, quantum teleportation, and QKD methods. Integration issues and practical problems that come up when adding quantum networks to healthcare systems that are already in place are also talked about. When healthcare groups use quantum networks, they can make their defences stronger against cyber threats and data breaches. This will make people believe AI-powered healthcare solutions even more. In a world where healthcare is becoming more and more digital, our research adds to the ongoing conversation about cyber security in healthcare by suggesting quantum networks as a useful and effective way to keep private and sensitive patient data safe.
Synthetic Data Generation for Business and Medicine With AI and Quantum Networks
Authors: Devipriya C. , Nandan G. , Yuvaraaj K. , Ranjith E.
Published: December 2024

In an era where data-driven decision-making is critical in a wide range of disciplines, the challenge of maintaining privacy while leveraging the potential of massive datasets has grown in relevance. This abstract describes a unique Privacy-Preserving Synthetic Data Generation System that attempts to achieve a delicate balance between data value and individual privacy. The method tries to create synthetic datasets that effectively mimic the statistical traits and trends of real data while also ensuring complete anonymization of sensitive information. Striking this balance is crucial for businesses, medicine and quantum networks that rely on data-driven insights because it simplifies compliance with privacy regulations and promotes trust in data-sharing practices. The suggested method is a big step forward in ensuring secure and ethical data-driven practices in the future since it prioritizes individual privacy while protecting the integrity of synthesized datasets
Transforming HR Analytics With AI and Quantum Network Integration
Authors: Naveenraj X. , Pandey Nivedita , Asha V. , Mohan V. Chandra Jagan , Sethi Gaurav , Dhanraj Joshuva Arockia
Published: December 2024

Human capital analytics are about to undergo a transformation as a result of the combination of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum Networks, which will result in improvements to decision-making procedures and strategic planning. This exploratory article investigates the potentially disruptive outcome that could occur in the field of human resource analytics if artificial intelligence's advanced data processing capabilities were combined with the unparalleled computational power of massive networks. Associations are able to obtain a more profound understanding of pool patterns, hand performance, and gift functioning by utilising artificial intelligence algorithms for predictive analytics and amount networks for the transmission of data as quickly and securely as possible. In the study, colourful operations such as gift accession, hand retention, and performance operation are investigated. The purpose of the study is to demonstrate how the integration of these diverse operations can result in HR practices that are more precise, effective, and visionary.
Preparation and Coating Properties of Core-Shell Silicon-Acrylic Emulsions
Authors: Zhu Kai Xuan , Wu Yu Min
Published: December 2024

The core structure of the emulsion was hydrolyzed and condensed by vinyltriethoxysilane and phenyltriethoxysilane, and the shell structure was synthesized by radical polymerization of butyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, and vinyltriethoxysilane. The Zeta potential of the prepared silicone emulsion was maintained at-40 mV. The emulsion has good stability. Transmission electron microscopy can be used to study the core-shell structure of latex particles. The water contact angle of silicone-modified acrylate coating can reach 94°, and its mechanical durability, alkali resistance, and salt corrosion resistance are better than that of pure acrylate coating.
Vitrimer Materials: A Review of Self-Healing Properties
Authors: Hayder Rabie , Kedziora Slawomir , Panneer Selvam Vaidyaa
Published: December 2024

Thermosets have played crucial roles in different industries, demonstrating versatility in packaging, furniture, electronics, and construction. Nevertheless, due to their permanent chemical bonds, these materials cannot be thermally processed after their shape has been formed. This results in notable environmental consequences as they accumulate in landfills during the product’s end-of-life cycle. Since the introduction of vitrimer, it has become a promising alternative that combines the mechanical strength of thermosets with distinctive characteristics including reprocessability, shape memory, recyclability, and self-healing ability. This review provides a thorough overview of the most recent developments in the vitrimer field, with a particular focus on advancements in self-healing properties and the corresponding techniques. Furthermore, it identifies the potential applications of vitrimer in different industries.
Study of Special Cements Based on Calcium and Barium Ferrites
Authors: Shabanova Galina , Taranenkova Victoria , Sharapov Mykhailo , Myrgorod Oksana , Pirohov Oleksandr
Published: December 2024

Pelletising, i.e. transformation of fine dusty materials into lump materials (pellets, briquettes, pellets), is an important technical task solved in many sectors of the national economy - ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy, chemical industry and in a number of other industries. The process of pelletising ores and ore concentrates is of the greatest importance for the production of iron and steel, i.e. for ferrous metallurgy. The most common method of pelletising is pelletising - granulation of iron ore concentrates in special granulation plants, usually with the use of binders. As a result of pelletising, so-called pellets are produced, which are subjected to hardening firing (roasting pellets) or achieve the required level of properties without high-temperature treatment (non-roasting pellets) through the use of special binders. The current trend is the transition from firing methods of pellet hardening to non-firing (low-temperature) methods.
Polypropylene Blends with Poly(Lactic Acid) Fiber: Preparation, Characterization, and Dyeability
Authors: Metanawin Siripan , Pechyen Marisa , Metanawin Tanapak
Published: December 2024

The dyeing ability of the polypropylene (PP) fiber was modified by blending with poly(lactic acid) (PLA). The PP, PLA, and PP/PLA fiber were obtained using the melt-spinning technique in the presence of the polypropylene-graft-maleic anhydride as a coupling. The dyeing ability, mechanical and thermal properties, and crystalline structure of the PP, PLA, and PP/PLA fibers were investigated. The effect of dyeing ability was measured using the CIE L* a* b*. The a* value of the PP of 11.91 increased to 43.48 for PP/PLA90, showing a light pink to red color. The SEM images demonstrated smooth fiber with color coating on the fiber. The mechanical property of the fiber indicates that increasing the PLA decreased the tenacity of the PP fiber. The melting behavior of fiber increased with the PLA. The XRD presented the PP's crystalline and the PLA's amorphous structures.
Ensuring Radiation Safety of Substances Contaminated by Radionuclides by Mixing them
Authors: Mashinistov Victor , Balakin Valery , Romanko Yaroslav , Meshkova Angelica , Petukhova Olena
Published: December 2024

This paper demonstrates the feasibility of ensuring radiation safety of solid substances that comprise environmental objects and have surfaces contaminated with radioactive substances. The identified problem is solved by utilizing the natural property of anti-radiation self-protection. To reintroduce structures and buildings contaminated with radionuclides into economic circulation, it is recommended to dismantle them, grind the materials, and mix the resulting mass. The proposed method is made possible by transforming the surface contamination of these objects into a uniform distribution of radionuclides throughout the mass of the contaminated substance. This uniform distribution will remain consistent in products made from the received raw materials. By implementing this approach, it is feasible to reintroduce large volumes of radioactively contaminated materials into the economic cycle and dispose of them in contaminated areas.
Review on Phosphorus Recovery as Struvite from Wastewater
Authors: Hafiz Nurul Fazlin Hasnul , Rahman Mukhlis Abdul , Othman Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan , Jaafar Juhana , Abas Khairul Hamimah
Published: December 2024

Wastewater treatment plants, particularly anaerobic digesters, face significant challenges related to the deposition of struvite, a mineral scale composed of magnesium ammonium phosphate hexahydrate. The formation and accumulation of struvite can lead to blockages in the treatment system, reducing flow rates and overall plant efficiency. This article explores the necessity of struvite removal for proper plant function and the potential for struvite recovery due to its rich nutrient content, specifically phosphorus and nitrogen, which can be repurposed in agriculture. Struvite recovery not only mitigates mineral deposition problems but also addresses the ecological risks associated with nutrient-rich effluents. The excess nutrients in wastewater effluent can contribute to water pollution, leading to eutrophication, algal blooms, and oxygen depletion, negatively impacting aquatic ecosystems and aquatic life. Furthermore, as the world's phosphorus reserves are finite and depleting, recovering phosphorus from wastewater aids in conserving this non-renewable resource. To facilitate efficient struvite recovery, it is crucial to control the formation of struvite crystals. Key factors affecting this process include pH, temperature, supersaturation, and mixing energy. Understanding the optimal conditions for these parameters is vital for maximizing phosphorus recovery. Various technologies such as chemical precipitation, biomineralization, seeding, ultrasound, and electrochemical are being studied to enhance struvite recovery, offering sustainable and innovative approaches to address this challenge. Overall, this review explores the various techniques and technologies utilized to recover phosphorus in struvite form which contributes to the efficient and sustainable management of wastewater treatment systems.
Optimization of Carbon Black Content in Nitrile Rubber for Enhanced Mechanical Properties and Sealing Performance in Rotary Shaft Seals
Authors: Pongmuksuwan Pornlada , Kitisatorn Wanlop
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the influence of carbon black content on the mechanical properties of Nitrile Rubber (NBR), with a focus on applications in rotary shaft seals. NBR blends were prepared with varying levels of carbon black (40, 45 and 50 phr) and characterized to assess changes in hardness, tensile properties, compression set, and abrasion resistance. The results indicate that increasing the carbon black content enhances the hardness, tensile strength, and abrasion resistance of the NBR elastomers, which is beneficial for high-wear applications. However, this improvement in mechanical strength is accompanied by a higher compression set, suggesting a potential reduction in sealing efficiency due to diminished elasticity and recovery after deformation. The study highlights the critical need for optimizing carbon black content to achieve a balance between mechanical durability and effective sealing performance, ensuring the reliability of NBR elastomers in demanding rotary shaft seal applications.
Self-reported meal planning practices among households in the Tshwane North area, Gauteng
Authors: Ncube Lindiwe J. , Manafe Mashudu , Gordon Reno E.
Published: December 2024

Background: Meal planning is crucial for households to improve food choices and promote healthier eating habits.Aim: The study aims to assess meal planning practices in households in Tshwane area, Gauteng province.Setting: The study was conducted in households, north of Tshwane, Gauteng province.Methods: A survey questionnaire was administered to 368 households. Descriptive statistics were analysed, and Pearson’s chi-square test was used to assess the relationship between categorical variables. The Spearman-Rho correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship between variables. A p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant and a Spearman Rho correlation coefficient (r) ≥ 0.25 signified a positive relationship.Results: Sixty-one per cent of the participants regarded meal planning as important. A total of 137 participants (37%) reported that they planned their meals before cooking and 64% (n = 235) never used recipes. There was statistical significance (p 0.05) between the options considered when buying food and the age of the participants. A positive association (p  0.05) between the options considered when planning meals and employment status were obtained. The Spearman’s Rho correlation coefficient showed a positive relationship between the options considered when planning meals and buying groceries (r = 0.377, p  0.001).Conclusion: Meal planning was considered important by participants but was not fully practised in households. Therefore, interventions through practical sessions are recommended to improve household’s meal planning and meal preparation practices, including household’s cooking skills.Contribution: Community-based nutrition education intervention strategies will empower households to opt for healthier meals through meal planning.
Corrigendum: Supply chain disruptions in the fast-moving consumer goods industry
Authors: Tazvivinga Kudakwashe , Pooe David
Published: December 2024

No abstract available.
Haemoglobinopathies in tribal populations of India
Authors: Ghosh Kanjaksha , Colah Roshan B. , Mukherjee Malay B.
Published: December 2024

Haemoglobinopathies particularly haemoglobin S and E (HbS, HbE) and β-thalassaemia are important challenges for tribal populations in India. The HbS, HbE and β-thalassaemia genes are variably distributed across various tribal populations of India. HbE is mainly restricted in tribals of North-East, West Bengal, Odisha and those in Andaman and Nicobar islands. HbS has more extensive distribution in the country (10-40% trait frequency) and the homozygotes and double heterozygotes present with a wide array of morbidities. The morbidity varies greatly in different areas of the country due to differential co-inheritance of α-thalassaemia gene and interaction of various epistatic and environmental factors. Though substantial data on prevalence of these disorders exist, there is an urgent need to develop integrated hierarchical core facilities to manage the disease. Such centres will generate more data and will also explore areas of management which need more local attention. Newborn screening, genetic counselling, carrier detection, prenatal diagnosis along with management of cases should form the basic infrastructure of haemoglobinopathy management. Research in this areas should continue focusing on various challenges in care delivery, prevention and basic sciences on interaction of haemoglobinopathies with various other infections.
Factors Associated with Favorable Tuberculosis Treatment Outcomes Determined Using Multiple Regression Analysis in Lusaka, Zambia, 2022
Authors: Daka Samuel , Ota Masaki , Samungole Graham K
Published: December 2024

Background:

This study aims to identify the factors associated with favorable treatment outcomes of tuberculosis (TB) patients registered at two hospitals and two urban health centers in Lusaka, Zambia in 2022.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study was conducted, focusing on patients who were either cured or completed treatment, defined as having favorable treatment outcomes. Unfavorable treatment outcomes included treatment failure, death, lost to follow-up, or not evaluated.

Results:

A total of 2945 patients were registered, of whom, 2071 (70.3%) were males and 1346 (45.7%) were bacteriologically confirmed cases. The overall treatment success rate across the facilities was 88.2%. Multiple regression analysis revealed that patients with contact details were 2.16 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.30–3.61) times more likely to achieve favorable treatment outcomes compared to those without. Conversely, for each year of increasing age, the likelihood of favorable outcomes decreased by 0.99 (95% CI: 0.98–1.00) times. Patients with unknown HIV status were 0.0079 (95% CI: 0.0024–0.0259) times more likely to have favorable outcomes compared to those who were HIV negative. In addition, patients treated at Facilities A and B had 4.8 (95% CI: 2.7–8.4) and 1.8 times (95% CI: 1.1–3.0), respectively, higher odds of favorable outcomes than those at Facility D.

Conclusion:

Healthcare providers should prioritize collecting contact details and testing HIV, especially in older adults with presumptive TB. Early diagnosis and proactive management strategies are essential for improving treatment outcomes.
Unraveling Complexity: Deep Vein Thrombosis as an Intriguing Complication of Scrub Typhus Infection
Authors: Bhattacharjee Anurag , Elancheralathan K , Kumar Ashok , Ray Ruru , Thangavel Rajkumar , Rajkumar Sharath
Published: December 2024

Scrub typhus, an emerging infectious menace in India, is caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, transmitted through larval trombiculid mites. Despite its typical presentation as undifferentiated febrile illness, scrub typhus can manifest severe complications, including the rare occurrence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). We present a noteworthy case of DVT in a 35-year-old female with scrub typhus, delving into the intricate interplay between rickettsial infection and vascular pathology, and exploring contemporary therapeutic strategies.
Surgical Significance of Tibioperoneal Trunk in Lower Limb Revascularization Procedures
Authors: Jadhav Yashashvi , Kanasker Neelesh
Published: December 2024

Background:

Popliteal artery is a continuation of femoral artery, which extends obliquely from the osseoaponeurotic opening of adductor magnus to lower border of popliteus muscle, where it terminates by dividing into anterior tibial artery and tibioperoneal trunk, this ranges from 92% to 96%. Knowledge of anatomic variability in this region may have clinical implications and are very essential during vascular grafting, direct surgical repair, transluminal angioplasty, embolectomy, and other arterial injury.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted in anatomy department where 50 lower limbs embalmed with 10% of formalin will be procured from the department. Artery and its branches were exposed. Side determination, branching pattern of terminal branches will be noted, and measurements of the length of tibioperoneal trunk will be taken with the help of digital micrometer.

Results:

Length of tibioperoneal trunk was taken with the help of digital Vernier caliper. All data obtained will be produced in tabulated form and if any variations was photographed.

Conclusions:

Proper characterization of the anatomical properties of popliteal artery requires adequate knowledge of its terminal branching variants. Increasing rates of surgical reconstructions and vascular surgical procedures of the lower extremity place more significance on having detailed anatomical information. Endovascular treatment of critical limb ischemia in diabetics with crural and pedal diseases can be an exceedingly challenging and complex problem, in this regard prior awareness of variant branching pattern of terminal end of popliteal artery is important for planning appropriate surgery and to reduce arterial injury.
Uncommon Presentations of Axillary Artery Aneurysm
Authors: Vidyasagar Radhika , Satish Umesh Gheewala , Sony Jithin , Vinay K S , Muralikrishna N , Amullya K R , Palaniswamy Poornima , Babu Davu Narendra
Published: December 2024

Background:

Axillary artery aneurysms are rare compared to other peripheral aneurysms. Once developed, they can cause vascular complications like rupture, thromboembolism leading to gangrene, limb loss or neurologic complications due to their proximity to the brachial plexus.

Objectives:

To illustrate a variety of axillary artery aneurysms and the surgical approach used to repair them.

Materials and Methods:

This case series describes four cases of axillary artery aneurysms. All the cases did not have a definite aetiology. CT scan was used to diagnose the cases. All of them underwent successful surgical repair.

Conclusion:

Axillary artery aneurysms are rare. Because of the high incidence of symptoms and complications and the minimal morbidity associated with repair, routine operative repair should be performed.
Improving Outcomes in Peripartum Cardiomyopathy with Vericiguat: A Clinical Case
Authors: Cacciapuoti Fulvio , Mauro Ciro , Capone Valentina , Marsico Fabio , Tarquinio Luca Gaetano , Cacciapuoti Federico
Published: December 2024

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a specific form of cardiomyopathy that manifests toward the end of pregnancy or within 5 months postpartum, characterized by a decrease in cardiac output due to impaired myocardial function. This condition has a multifactorial origin, influenced by genetic predispositions, inflammatory processes, autoimmunity, hormonal variations, and nutritional deficiencies. Prognosis varies among patients: while some recover completely within 6 months, others may develop chronic cardiac dysfunction requiring long-term treatment. Vericiguat, a soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator, has shown promising results in the treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. This drug works by enhancing the nitric oxide signaling pathway, promoting vasodilation, and improving myocardial function. Although the use of vericiguat in PPCM is not yet fully documented, its potential benefits suggest that it may represent a valid therapeutic option when standard therapies are insufficient for symptom control. We present the case of a 32-year-old woman with PPCM, initially undiagnosed, who developed severe symptoms of dyspnea, orthopnea, and peripheral edema postpartum. These symptoms were accompanied by a significant reduction in left ventricular ejection fraction. Following a suboptimal response to standard heart failure therapy, vericiguat was incorporated into her treatment regimen. In subsequent outpatient follow-ups, the patient‘s symptoms progressively improved, and left ventricular systolic function markedly increased. The patient became asymptomatic and was able to resume her normal daily activities. While this case suggests that vericiguat could be an effective adjunctive treatment for PPCM, it remains unclear whether these improvements were directly attributable to vericiguat or could have occurred with continued standard therapy alone. Further studies are needed to define the role of vericiguat in this condition.
A Simulation Study for Optimal Pinhole Collimator Design in Gamma Camera Systems
Authors: Ghoneim M. A.
Published: December 2024

Background:

The usage of a semiconductor detector with a pinhole collimator can provide high spatial resolution due to its high intrinsic resolution. However, the collimator system has low sensitivity due to the hole’s small diameter. Therefore, the optimization between the spatial resolution and sensitivity is critical for determining the image quality in the gamma camera system.

Aims and Objectives:

A pinhole collimator was designed and simulated to achieve the desired level of resolution and sensitivity in a gamma camera by utilizing a CdTe semiconductor detector.

Materials and Methods:

To conduct this objective, a simulation toolkit based on the Geant4 Application for Tomographic Emission (GATE) was employed. The imaging capabilities of the proposed system were assessed by varying the magnification factor and pinhole diameter to estimate spatial resolution and sensitivity. Moreover, a hot rod phantom was designed to evaluate the system’s overall imaging functionality.

Results:

Results revealed that an increase in the pinhole diameter was correlated with an increase in sensitivity, while the spatial resolution was decreasing. There were distinct variations in sensitivity and spatial resolution depending on changes in the magnification factor as well. Finally, by analyzing trade-off curves, 1.38±0.081 mm was approximately the optimal pinhole diameter for our proposed system.

Conclusion:

The optimum position for a pinhole collimator with a CdTe semiconductor detector was demonstrated.
Design and Performance Evaluation of SiPM-based High-resolution Dedicated Brain Positron Emission Tomography Scanner: A Simulation Study
Authors: Zare Tahereh , Sheikhzadeh Peyman , Teimourian Fard Behnoosh , Ghafarian Pardis , Ay Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2024

Purpose/Aim:

The increasing population age highlights the critical need for early brain disease diagnosis, especially in disorders such as dementia. Consequently, a notable focus has been on developing dedicated brain positron emission tomography (PET) scanners, which offer higher resolution and sensitivity than whole-body PET scanners. This study aims to design and performance evaluation of an LYSO-based dedicated brain PET scanner.

Materials and Methods:

We developed a dedicated brain PET using Monte Carlo simulation based on cylindrical geometry. Each detector block consisted of a 23 × 23 array of 2 mm × 2 mm × 15 mm LYSO crystals coupled with SiPM. The performance of this scanner was evaluated based on the NEMA NU-2-2018 standard, focusing on analyzing various energy windows and coincidence time windows (CTWs).

Results:

The results demonstrated that the noise equivalent count rate (NECR) peaked at each CTW in the 408–680 keV energy window. In addition, increasing the CTWs from 3 ns to 10 ns resulted in a decrease of 9% in sensitivity and an increase of 63% in NECR. Furthermore, the study findings highlight that using a time-of-flight (TOF) resolution of 250 ps can substantially improve image contrast relative to non-TOF reconstruction.

Conclusions:

We conclude that employing a broader energy window and a narrower CTW can significantly enhance the scanner’s performance regarding sensitivity and NECR. Furthermore, incorporating LYSO pixelated crystals with TOF information will facilitate the generation of high-resolution and high-contrast images.
Feasibility of Proton Range Estimation with Prompt Gamma Imaging in Proton Therapy of Lung Cancer: Monte Carlo Study
Authors: Rohollahpour Elham , Ahangari Hadi Taleshi
Published: December 2024

Context:

Using prompt gamma (PG) ray is proposed as a promising solution for in vivo monitoring in proton therapy. Despite significant and diverse approaches explored over the past two decades, challenges still persist for more effective utilization.

Aims:

The feasibility of estimating proton range with PG imaging (PGI) as an online imaging guide in an anthropomorphic phantom with lung cancer was investigated through GATE/GEANT4 Monte Carlo simulation.

Setting and Design:

Once the GATE code was validated for use as a simulation tool, the gamma energy spectra of NURBS-based cardiac-torso (NCAT) and polymethyl methacrylate phantoms, representing heterogeneous and homogeneous phantoms respectively, were compared with the gamma emission lines known in nuclear interactions with tissue elements. A 5-mm radius spherical tumor in the lung region of an NCAT phantom, without any physiological or morphological changes, was simulated.

Subjects and Methods:

The proton pencil beam source was defined as a function of the tumor size to encompass the tumor volume. The longitudinal spatial correlation between the proton dose deposition and the distribution of detected PG rays by the multi-slit camera was assessed for proton range estimation. The simulations were conducted for both 108 and 109 protons.

Results:

The deviation between the proton range and the range estimated by PGI following proton beam irradiation to the center of the lung tumor was determined by evaluating the longitudinal profiles at the 80% fall-off point, measuring 1.9 mm for 109 protons and 4.5 mm for 108 protons.

Conclusions:

The accuracy of proton range estimation through PGI is greatly influenced by the number of incident protons and tissue characteristics. With 109 protons, it is feasible to utilize PGI as a real-time monitoring technique during proton therapy for lung cancer.
Cross-sectional C*-algebras associated with subgroups
Authors: Ferraro Damián
Published: December 2024

Given a Fell bundle

$\mathcal {B}=\{B_t\}_{t\in G}$

over a locally compact group G and a closed subgroup

$H\subset G,$

we construct quotients

$C^{*}_{H\uparrow \mathcal {B}}(\mathcal {B})$

and

$C^{*}_{H\uparrow G}(\mathcal {B})$

of the full cross-sectional C*-algebra

$C^{*}(\mathcal {B})$

analogous to Exel–Ng’s reduced algebras

$C^{*}_{\mathop {\mathrm {r}}}(\mathcal {B})\equiv C^{*}_{\{e\}\uparrow \mathcal {B}}(\mathcal {B})$

and

$C^{*}_R(\mathcal {B})\equiv C^{*}_{\{e\}\uparrow G}(\mathcal {B}).$

An absorption principle, similar to Fell’s one, is used to give conditions on

$\mathcal {B}$

and H (e.g., G discrete and

$\mathcal {B}$

saturated, or H normal) ensuring

$C^{*}_{H\uparrow \mathcal {B}}(\mathcal {B})=C^{*}_{H\uparrow G}(\mathcal {B}).$

The tools developed here enable us to show that if the normalizer of H is open in G and

$\mathcal {B}_H:=\{B_t\}_{t\in H}$

is the reduction of

$\mathcal {B}$

to

$H,$

then

$C^{*}(\mathcal {B}_H)=C^{*}_{\mathop {\mathrm {r}}}(\mathcal {B}_H)$

if and only if

$C^{*}_{H\uparrow \mathcal {B}}(\mathcal {B})=C^{*}_{\mathop {\mathrm {r}}}(\mathcal {B});$

the last identification being implied by

$C^{*}(\mathcal {B})=C^{*}_{\mathop {\mathrm {r}}}(\mathcal {B}).$

We also prove that if G is inner amenable and

$C^{*}_{\mathop {\mathrm {r}}}(\mathcal {B})\otimes _{\max } C^{*}_{\mathop {\mathrm {r}}}(G)=C^{*}_{\mathop {\mathrm { r}}}(\mathcal {B})\otimes C^{*}_{\mathop {\mathrm {r}}}(G),$

then

$C^{*}(\mathcal {B})=C^{*}_{\mathop {\mathrm {r}}}(\mathcal {B}).$
A solution to Ringel’s circle problem
Authors: Davies James , Keller Chaya , Kleist Linda , Smorodinsky Shakhar , Walczak Bartosz
Published: December 2024

We construct families of circles in the plane such that their tangency graphs have arbitrarily large girth and chromatic number. This provides a strong negative answer to Ringel’s circle problem (1959). The proof relies on a (multidimensional) version of Gallai’s theorem with polynomial constraints, which we derive from the Hales–Jewett theorem and which may be of independent interest.
Perceived need for orthodontic treatment among 10-18-year-old patients and their parents in Tanzania
Authors: I.M Abdul-ladif , M.M Mlangwa , F.M Machibya
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND: Parents tend to influence children’s initiating orthodontic treatment. Thus, it is important to determine children’s perceived need for treatment as it may differ from their parents’perception.AIM: To assess the perceived dental aesthetics, determine the perceived orthodontic treatment need among patients, and compare it withtheir parent’s perception.MATERIAL AND METHODS: The study involved 10-18-year-old orthodontic patients and their parents attending the clinic. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires for the patients and the parents for socio-demographic data and the Aesthetic Component (AC) of Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) index to assess dental aesthetics.RESULTS: The patients were 10-18 years old with a mean age of 14 (+/-1.9 SD). More patients (68.2%) scored themselves in the ‘No treatment need’ category of the AC of the IOTN compared to parents (39.6%) who scored their children in this category. Moreover, parents’ aesthetic scores were strongly associated with patient’s perceived need for orthodontic treatment (p<0.001).CONCLUSIONS: The self-reported need for orthodontic treatment among the patients was lower than the need for treatment as perceived by their parents. Parent’s perception of dental aesthetics significantly influenced the self-perceived need for treatment among the patients.
Total phenolic content in monofloral honey varieties from Beni Mellal-Khenifra, Central Morocco: variability and determinants
Authors: Chikhaoui Mourad , Galman Aziz , Toufik Bouddine , El kardoudi Abdeslam , Lotfi Rachid , Ouaamr Ahmed , Mouslim Jamal , El Hajjouji Houda
Published: December 2024

Honey is valued not only for its taste and nutritional properties but also for its health benefits, primarily due to its phenolic compound content. Environmental and biological factors influences this content. This study investigates the total polyphenol content of monofloral honey varieties from the Beni Mellal-Khenifra region and its relationship with botanical origin, geographic location, color, and harvesting period. The results showed highly significant differences in total phenolic content among honey samples with varying botanical and geographical origins (p < 0.0001). The study revealed a strong correlation (r= 0.985*, p<0.05) between total phenolic content and the location of honey collection. Honey from lower altitudes, such as citrus and anis honey, showed lower total polyphenol content levels (13.53 ± 0.004 and 19.10 ± 0.004 mg EAG/100g, respectively), while honey from higher altitudes, such as euphorbia and carob honey, exhibited higher total phenolic content levels (30.61 ± 0.009 and 28.62 ± 0.003 mg EAG/100g, respectively). Additionally, a highly significant correlation was observed between total phenolic content and honey color (r = 0.996**, p<0.01), indicating that darker honey contains higher phenolic levels. Conversely, no significant association was found between total phenolic content and harvesting period (r = 0.486, p>0.05). These results highlight the impact of environmental factors on honey’s phenolic composition and underscore the importance of considering geographic and botanical influences in honey quality assessment.
Safety and antioxidant potential of Ziziphus mauritiana leaf extract: an acute toxicity and DPPH scavenging study
Authors: Jha Deepak , Parihar Ashish Singh
Published: December 2024

The current study aimed to assess the toxicological profile and antioxidant potential of the ethanolic extract of Ziziphus mauritiana (Z. mauritiana) leaves, evaluating its safety and therapeutic properties. The toxicological assessment followed the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development 423 guidelines, using female Wistar rats to evaluate acute oral toxicity. The extract was administered in doses of 5, 50, 300, and 2000 mg/kg body weight, with physiological responses and mortality observed over 14 days. Antioxidant potential was assessed through total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity (RSA) assays. TPC and TFC were measured using gallic acid and quercetin as standards, respectively. No signs of toxicity or mortality were observed across all dose levels, indicating the extract’s safety even at high doses. Antioxidant analysis revealed significant TPC and TFC values, reaching 5.24 mg gallic acid equivalent per gram (GAE/g) and 4.17 mg quercetin equivalent per gram (QE/g), respectively. The extract exhibited strong DPPH RSA, with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) value of 128.17 μg/mL, indicating potent antioxidant efficacy. The ethanolic extract of Z. mauritiana leaves demonstrated substantial antioxidant activity and an absence of acute toxicity, supporting its potential use as a natural antioxidant agent in medicinal applications. Future studies should explore its bioactive components and effects in disease models.