bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Empirical Study of the Role of Big Data Analytics in Corporate Decision Making
Authors: Shao Xu
Published: April 2023

Bounded rationality prevents firms from achieving their full potential. However, intelligent solutions can help eliminate bias in decision making. This study examines whether biases diminish or disappear when novel and powerful digital resources, such as big data analytics, are applied in management practice. The authors use a massive matched database of 1,942 large Chinese firms to find significant and positive effects of data processing frequency on high-level metrics of rational decision-making outcomes, such as productivity and profitability. Moreover, the increase in between-firm variance is the result of both differences in firm characteristics and a widening gap in their workflows and coordinating mechanisms. Heterogeneity can effectively explain 13.18% of the marginal effect of big data analytics on firm metrics, such as productivity and profitability. The results also indicate that the human capital of the C-suite partially mediates the link between big data analytics and firm performance.
Privacy and Information Disclosure
Authors: Cai Yinghui , Zhang Xiaotao , Niu Huayong , Li Wei , Huo Da , He Jianing , Chen Hong
Published: April 2023

The information collection in the global governance of the digital economy is important to companies in response to COVID-19. This research studied the initiative of conflicts between privacy and information disclosure based on agency theory, analyzed the resolution of the conflicts based on incentive compatibility, and further discussed the rationale of the balance between private and public interest based on agile governance. This research suggests the necessity of finding the balance between public interest and privacy protection based on the hierarchical division of private and public interest. The dynamic psychological behavior to privacy and information disclosure by uninfected and infected citizens in response to COVID-19 is simulated by Volterra differential equations. The specification of boundaries in data use can be helpful to companies in reconciling the privacy and information disclosure for customer relationship management in digital governance in response to COVID-19.
The Chinese Experience of Developing Cross-Border E-Commerce Under the “Belt and Road” Framework
Authors: Gurbanova Natalia , Wang Zhongnv
Published: April 2023

Cross-border e-commerce is becoming the driver of digital globalization and is of strategic importance in the growth of world trade. Under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, China has released a number of guidelines to accelerate the process of development regarding the cross-border e-commerce industry, including the Digital Silk Road project. However, the boosting of cross-border e-commerce is followed by challenges. This article investigates the main factors affecting the current situation with cross-border e-commerce within the 51 countries along route. Based on empirical analysis, it is concluded that logistics infrastructure has so far been the key factor for cross-border e-commerce's sustainable development. Thus, general suggestions are given, among which the priority belongs to improvement of the existing logistics infrastructure and construction of the new one. Several directions for future research in this area are recommended, such as exploration of new logistics mechanisms and schemes, based on digitalization and innovations.
Optimization Strategy for Molecular Dynamics Simulations of Nanometric Cutting of Aluminium Alloy Using Molecular Modelling
Authors: Ejiofor Victor Emeka , Abou-El-Hossein Khaled
Published: April 2023

Atoms constituting a metal define its molecular crystal structure (atomic system) and interact in molecular dynamics simulations of nanometric cutting of the metal. The removal of the material (metal) at nanoscale and generation of high quality surface with a nanometric finish is largely influenced by the mechanical and physical properties of the metal as it associates with the metal lattice (atomistic) structure. Improved studies of the molecular modelling (behaviour of molecules) as it creates mathematical models of molecular properties and behaviour of atomistic systems are required for condition prediction of a nanometric surface finish. In this study, atomic system of rapidly solidified aluminium (RSA) alloy, grade RSA 431, with the use of its alloying elemental compositions by weight percentage is designed and constructed with cell geometry and atom positions that are written into a data file using AtomsK program. In addition, atomic concentration influencing the structural properties of the alloying elements were calculated. Obtained microstructure depicts the spread of the elemental compositions and the data file is suitable for a code performing simulations on classical particles like the large-scale atomic/molecular massively parallel simulator (LAMMPS) software. Understanding the computer simulations (molecular dynamics) for analyzing the physical movements of atoms and molecules, and the peculiar characteristic properties of the composing alloying elements of the RSA 431 determine how much influence each of them (elements) has on the nanometric cutting surface. Hence, the nanometric surface finish of the RSA 431.
Characterization of Ceramic and Concrete Wastes from CDW as Secondary Raw Materials for Mortar Applications
Authors: Rosado Santiago , Gullón Lidia , Presa Leticia , Moreno Jaime , Martín Domingo , Costafreda Jorge
Published: April 2023

The construction sector uses high quantities of raw materials and consequently the demolition sector generates huge amounts of waste. Envisioning the future of the construction sector, new Circular Economy Business Models should be implemented to contribute to the development of the sector. These Business Models will be based on innovative recycling techniques able to provide the technical requirements of the construction materials. This work aims to valorize ceramic and concrete wastes as aggregates for the mortar manufacturing. The chemical composition of these materials with high proportion of silica and very low quantities of sulfates makes them appropriate for their application. The wastes were previously crushed to the required particle size (6mm). The crushed ceramic waste presents an important fines proportion, which will increase the water consumption in the mortar mixes.
Study of the Structure and the Destruction Surface of the Dampers Manufactured by the Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Zhukov A.S. , Madin V.V. , Barakhtin B.K. , Perevislov S.N. , Kuznetcov P.A.
Published: April 2023

The properties of dampers manufactured by the selective laser melting are investigated. Microswear with different elastic and plastic properties were found. The texture of dampers samples represents a non-uniform supplement structure of crushed grains, separated by layers with dispersoids of crystallization of varying completion stages.
Forming Parameters and Optimization of A5052 in SPIF Process
Authors: Bhandari Krishna Singh , Aziz Shahid , Chen Wen Ning , Li Si Jia , Jung Dong Won
Published: April 2023

Forming a metallic sheet along with the consideration of computer simulation and experiment had benefited the milling industry for a long time. The ideal forming, without an error, is a concerning topic. So, the computer simulation had the advantage then direct forming. To observe the results before doing the real experiments simulation comes handy. Which helped to set the parameters for the milling process for the single point incremental forming (SPIF) process. For milling, a CAD design was converted into a 3D model. For this, a conical shape of 3D modeling was made in fusion 360. After onwards, it was simulated for finding the maximum depth for the cracking point. Next for the experimental part, the maximum forming depth was considered, and used lubricant grease for reducing friction. While forming with the grease, the impact of parameters was also changed. Throughout the process, an optimization approach was set to reduce the cracking areas for the G-code. Along with the lubricant use, smooth milling finished surface was observed. To reducing the depth forming errors, an optimization approach was introduced in this research.
Preparation of Zinc Nanoparticles by Gas Condensation in a Contactless Crucible
Authors: Markov A.N. , Vorotyntsev A.V. , Kapinos Alexander
Published: April 2023

In this work, zinc nanoparticles were obtained. As a production method, a one-stage induction flow levitation method was used. The starting material was spherical granules with a purity of 99.9% and a mass of 2 g; as atoms evaporated from the surface of the molten granule, the drop was fed with a metal wire made of the same material. The productivity of the nanoparticles was 30 g / h. The resulting nanoparticles were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray phase analysis, porosimetry, and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy.
Observation of Microstructures in Carburized-Quenched SCM415 Steel under Rotating Bending Fatigue of 716 MPa
Authors: Kita Shusuke , Ushizima Kei , Matsueda Takahiro , Mizobe Koshiro , Kida Katsuyuki
Published: April 2023

Carburized-quenched steel has a hard layer on the surface and a soft layer in the core. Internal fatigue cracks are observed around the boundary between these two layers under cyclic stress. In this research, we investigated the microstructures (carbon content, prior austenite grains and retained austenite) in the carburized-quenched chromium molybdenum steel bar (JIS-SCM415, diameter = 10 mm) failed by rotating bending test (RBT) at nominal stress amplitude of 716 MPa. After the investigations, we obtained three conclusions: the carbon content in the area from the surface to 0.1 mm depth was higher than other area; the prior austenite grain (PAG) sizes at 0.1 mm depth from the surface was almost the same as that of 0.6 mm depth; and the retained austenite which was indicated from the ratio of γ to α in the cross section ranging from the surface to 0.1 mm depth was decreased by rotating bending fatigue.
Research for the Process of Forming the Metal during its Cyclic Deformation
Authors: Chernomas V.V. , Maryin S.B.
Published: April 2023

Use the devices for the implementation of the combined casting process and deformation of non-ferrous alloys is a relatively new direction in the technology of materials processing by pressure. For an adequate description of the shaping processes implemented in such devices on the basis of certain mathematical models, experimental data on the energy-force parameters of deformation are required, as well as data for the nature of the distribution and intensity of deformations arising in the process during cyclic deformation of a metal product. The cyclical nature of the process of forming a metal product, coupled with large plastic deformations, does not allow directly using the traditional methods of experimental research of its stress-strain state adopted in the theory of metalworking by pressure. This gap is partly intended to fill by this study. The paper proposes a complex technique based on the registration (according to the electrical characteristics of the drive motor) of the instantaneous power of irreversible deformation for the material of a metal product. Prone to strain hardening in a cold state, a method for directly establishing the components of plastic deformation of the workpiece based on the method of rolled dividing grids with subsequent calculations according to Siebel's method. Analysis of the experimental results allows us to establish a qualitative picture of the deformation mechanism. The obtained experimental values are necessary for the verification of mathematical models and software systems for calculating the stress-strain state of materials under complex loading and finite deformations.
Effect of Sintering Temperatures on the Physical Properties of Bi-2223 System Prepared by Co-Precipitation Method
Authors: Alkaabi Zaid K. , Al-Shakarchi Emad K.
Published: April 2023

The challenge in this research is the producing of nanoparticle superconductor compound. The benefit of nanoparticle is making the improving of the superconductor compound. The Bi2Sr2Ca2Cu3O10 (Bi-2223) compound prepared by Co-precipitation method at different sintering temperatures (600, 700, 850 °C) (20 hrs) with pH value (7). The electric resistivity of samples measured under liquid helium closed cycle cryogenic system. The TEM estimation of sample prepared by Co-precipitation recognized the range of particles size is about (22 - 48nm) at sintering temperature (600 °C). The range of nanoparticles size is in about (65-112 nm) at sintering temperature (700 °C) and (80-124) nm at sintering temperatures (850°C). The critical temperature of sample at sintering temperatures (700, 850 °C) was about (109 ,112) K respectively The crystal structure confirmed by using X-ray diffraction, these peaks were found to be well indexed by the tetragonal phase of Bi-2223. It was defined the successful of this method is a function to presence of full properties for superconductor compound like Bi-2223 system. .
Observation of Transition Area Origin Cracks on Fracture Surfaces of Carburized JIS SCM415 Bars
Authors: Nakasone Yuki , Matsueda Takahiro , Ushizima Kei , Mizobe Koshiro , Kida Katsuyuki
Published: April 2023

Under high cycle and very high cycle fatigue, high strength steels break as a result of internal fracture from inclusions. In order to understand this fracture, “Fisheye” crack has been investigated. In our previous work we found that cracks grew from the boundary between the hard surface and soft core of case-hardened S45C, SUJ2 and SCM415 steel bars under rotating bending fatigue. These cracks were called “Transition area origin (TRO)” cracks. In this study, we closely observed the fracture surface of TRO crack areas in carburized JIS SCM415 specimens (under 734, 776 and 865 MPa). We found three features of the TRO cracks: outside of the TRO cracks had asperities; the shapes of TRO cracks were almost circular, and were different from those in S45C and SUJ2 steels; and the HAZ-TRO area which was located at hardened layer had some ridges, and the Core-TRO area at unheat-treated layer was smooth and flat.
Effect of the Weld Deposit Thickness on the Impact Strength of Heat-Affected Zone of the Welded Joint
Authors: Antonov A.A. , Kornilova Z.G. , Ammosov G.S. , Tereshkin A.L.
Published: April 2023

The methodology has been developed to show the functional connection of the impact strength of the heat-affected zone metal of welded joints with weld deposit thickness and, accordingly, with the consumption of welding materials during electric arc welding while constructing and repairing various metal structures and pipeline systems operating in conditions of low climatic temperatures. To reach the objective of the paper, rational intervals of cooling rates of the HAZ metal during welding low-alloy pipe steels were used, and the calculated dependences from the existing works were modified.
The methodology allows increasing cold resistance of welded joints of steels of mass use by regulating the weld deposit thickness and welding consumables during electric arc welding while constructing and repairing various metal structures and pipeline systems operating in extreme conditions of the North.
Characteristics and Biological Applications of Green Nickel Oxide Synthesised by Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flowers
Authors: Hameed Israa A. , Abed Mohammed. A. , Mufeed Shaimaa
Published: April 2023

This study used Hibiscus sabdariffa flowers to prepare and characterise nickel oxide nanoparticles that are non-toxic and environmentally advantageous (green synthesis). After two hours of heat treatment at 600 °C, XRD was employed to validate the cubic crystal structure of NiO-NPs. The crystal plane (200) corresponded to the optimal peak on the XRD, With an average crystalline size, as per Williamson-Hall's formula, is 46.26 nm, while as per Scherrer's formula, it is 24.40 nm. At 524, 420, and 468 cm-1, the FT-IR spectrum revealed a Ni-O vibration band. Throughout the surface microscopic analysis, Field-Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) revealed smooth, cylindrical rod-like crystals. As per the UV-Vis spectral curve, NiO-NPs had a direct bandgap (Eg) of 2.91 eV. NiO-NPs nanoparticles were shown to be more effective against gram-negative bacteria in terms of biological activities. P. aeruginosa was significantly more severely harmed than S. aureus.
Engineering Method for Calculating the Limiting Amplitudes of Stress Cycles for Structural Steels
Authors: Molokov K.A. , Novikov Valery V. , Domashevskaya Ya.R. , Mamontov A.I.
Published: April 2023

In large-sized metal structures, various stress concentrators are often present, which affects the operation of the material. These are intermittent bonds, holes, welded joints, material defects, etc. As a result of overloads under the action of an external cyclic load on structures in the area of stress raisers, the cycle asymmetry, the level of maximum stresses and deformations increase. In this case, the determination of the limit values of the stress cycles can be performed using a diagram of the limit stress amplitudes. The paper presents an engineering method for calculating the limiting stress amplitudes and constructing Hay’s diagrams. It is based on the use of mathematical models of classical linear and structural-mechanical fracture mechanics. Analytically and by calculation, the validity of the method is shown, which consists in determining the endurance limits and limiting stress amplitudes under high-cycle loading in a wide range of variation of the cycle asymmetry coefficient for ferrite-pearlite steels with a yield strength of up to 400 MPa. Thus, a generalized calculation method has been developed for determining the endurance limits for high values of cycle asymmetry and cycle stresses. The error of the method is estimated in the area of low-cycle load. The influence of constant and average load in a cycle on the endurance limit has been investigated both for high-cycle and low-cycle loading. The proposed approach allows to construct Smith and Hay’s fatigue diagrams for the tensile region, taking into account the structural characteristics of the material and the error allowed for engineering calculations.
Effect of Obesity on Airway Mechanics
Authors: Shanmugasundaram K , Bade G , Sampath M , Talwar A
Published: April 2023

Background:

Obesity is known to induce lung function impairment. Previous studies of decline in lung function associated with obesity are well established.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, to evaluate the effects of different obesity indices on lung mechanics, healthy subjects (males-23 and females-22) were recruited. Anthropometric parameters like body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), hip circumference (HC) and neck circumference (NC) were measured and waist-hip ratio (WHR) was derived. Spirometry, impulse oscillometry (IOS) and fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) measurements were performed to assess lung function. Subgroups were divided and analysed.

Results:

In males, increased WHR is associated with increased total airway resistance (R5). BMI correlates positively with R5, R5% predicted, resistance at 20 Hz (R20) and R20% predicted; likewise, WHR shows a positive correlation with R5. In females, increased WHR has significantly higher R5, R5% predicted, R20, R20% predicted, area of reactance (Ax), resonant frequency (Fres) and decreased reactance at 5 Hz (X5), reactance at 20 Hz (X20), X20% predicted. The female group with higher WC shows significantly increased R5, R5% predicted, R20, R20% predicted, Ax, Fres and lower fixed ratio of forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1)/forced vital capacity (FVC), X5, X20, X20% predicted. The group with higher NC has a lower FEV1/FVC ratio. WHR positively correlated with R5% predicted and Fres while WC correlated positively with R5, R5% predicted, Ax and Fres; same way, NC with X5% predicted.

Conclusion:

Obesity/overweight causes significant changes in lung volumes, capacity and airway mechanics, Higher WC and WHR are associated with significant changes in lung mechanics, which are more prominent in females than in males. NC is not associated with changes in lung mechanics.
Prevalence of Coronary Artery Disease in Asymptomatic type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients with Invasive Correlation in North India
Authors: Kumar V , Yadav B , Nachankar A
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD).

Material and Methods:

In this study, we assessed the prevalence of CAD in asymptomatic T2DM patients and its correlation with invasive testing in treadmill testing (TMT)-positive cases. A total of 90 patients with asymptomatic T2DM were recruited and subjected to TMT TMT-positive patients were subjected to coronary angiography (CAG).

Results:

At baseline, the mean duration of T2DM (years) was 4.87 ± 4.04 with mean levels of HbA1c (%) of 7.96 ± 1.02. TMT was positive in 28 patients (31.1%) for reversible myocardial ischaemia (RMI), and among them, 16 patients consented to CAG, of which 14 required coronary angioplasty and the remaining two (7.1%) had to undergo coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). The remaining 12 TMT positives (42.9%) were managed medically.

Conclusion:

To conclude, there is a high prevalence of silent CAD in T2DM. They need regular screening to detect the same and prevent the morbidity and mortality associated with overt CAD. Hence, it is important to screen people with type 2 diabetes, to prevent the morbidity and mortality associated with overt CAD.
Correlation between Serum Vitamin D3 Levels and Severity of COVID-19, Experience from a COVID-19-Dedicated Tertiary Care Hospital from Western India
Authors: Sanamandra P , Gada JV , Misra S , Barasara SA , Varthakavi PK , Bhagwat NM
Published: April 2023

Context:

It is postulated that 25(OH)D deficiency is associated with a worse prognosis of COVID-19.

Aims:

We aimed to find out whether baseline serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels were correlated with COVID-19 disease severity or not in Indian population.

Settings and Design:

It is a prospective observational study.

Methods and Material:

We prospectively recruited 200 COVID-19-positive adult patients and measured their baseline vitamin D levels on admission and prospectively followed their clinical course for their outcome and correlated the association.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The continuous data were represented as mean (±SD) or median (IQR), while the categorical data were represented as proportions. Parametric data were analysed using unpaired T-test and ANOVA for two and more than two groups, and for categorical, nonparametric data, Chi-square test were applied. A two-sided P value of <0.05 was considered as statistically significant with 95% confidence interval.

Results:

Eighty-six per cent (172/200) of patients had hypovitaminosis D (<30 ng/mL). The prevalence of 25(OH) severe deficiency, deficiency and vitamin D insufficiency was 23%, 41% and 22%, respectively. Clinical severity was graded as asymptomatic (11%), mild (14%), moderate (14.5%), severe (37.5%) and critical (22%). Sixty per cent of patients had clinically severe or critical disease requiring oxygen support with eleven per cent (n = 22) mortality overall. Age (P: 0.001), HTN (P: 0.049) and DM (P: 0.018) were negatively associated with clinical severity. No linear association was found between vitamin D levels and clinical severity. Low vitamin D levels had a significant inverse association with inflammatory markers like neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio (NLR, P: 0.012) and IL-6 (P: 0.002).

Conclusions:

Vitamin D deficiency was not associated with worse outcomes of COVID-19 infection in Indian population.
Association of Leptin and Retinol Binding Protein 4 with the Risk of Gestational Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Authors: Mousavi SN , Bahramfard T , Rad EY , Hosseinikia M , Saboori S
Published: April 2023

The positive correlation between serum levels of retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) and gestational diabetes (GDM) has been proven in the previous meta-analysis on case-control studies. However, its association with serum levels of leptin is not studied in any meta-analysis. Therefore, we performed an updated systematic review of observational studies evaluating the association between serum RBP4 and leptin with the risk of GDM. A systematic search was performed on four databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, up to March 2021. After screening and deleting duplicates, nine articles met our inclusion criteria. Studies had case-control and cohort design, and included 5074 participants with a mean age range between 18 and 32.65 years (2359 participants for RBP4 and 2715 participants for leptin). Interestingly, this meta-analysis revealed higher levels of RBP4 (OR=2.04; 95% CI: 1.37, 3.04) and leptin (OR=2.32; 95% CI: 1.39, 3.87) are significantly associated with the increased risk of overall GDM. The subgroup analysis approved the results based on the study design, trimester of pregnancy and serum/plasms to investigate the source of heterogeneity. The present meta-analysis determines serum leptin and RBP4 levels as predictors of GDM occurrence. However, studies included in this meta-analysis showed significant heterogeneity.
Can Bone-Specific Alkaline Phosphatase be a Marker of Vascular Calcification in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus?
Authors: Raizada N , Aslam M , Mishra BK , Chawla D , Madhu SV
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims:

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) enzyme has been linked to vascular calcification. Unexplained elevations in serum ALP levels have been reported in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). We assessed bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BAP) levels in patients with T2DM who had unexplained ALP elevations and studied the association between BAP and other markers of vascular calcification.

Methods:

Patients with T2DM who had high serum ALP in the absence of known causes of ALP elevation were studied. The control group was T2DM patients with normal ALP. We measured the serum levels of BAP along with the leptin, fetuin-A, and vitamin K2 levels. Ankle–brachial index (ABI) was also measured in both groups.

Results:

Serum BAP levels were significantly higher in the group with high ALP when compared with the normal ALP group. A significant positive correlation was present between BAP and serum fetuin-A as well as between BAP and Vit K2 levels. There was no correlation between BAP and serum leptin. ABI was comparable between the two groups.

Conclusions:

Patients with T2DM may have unexplained elevation in ALP due to an increase in BAP. Elevation in BAP may be associated with other markers of vascular calcification suggesting an increased risk of vascular calcification.
Addressing Challenges in Insulin Storage: An Ethical Dilemma among Physicians
Authors: Pande AK , Thakur AK , Kanchan A , Srivastava I
Published: April 2023

Background and Aims:

Insulin is a temperature-sensitive protein; hence, its potency is highly dependent on appropriate storage. Ideally, insulin should be stored in the refrigerator, but when in use it can be stored at room temperature for up to four weeks. However, room temperatures vary widely across regions and countries, and all rural areas of developing countries like India are not electrified. This study explored physicians’ perception of alternative methods for appropriate storage of insulin, such as indigenous storage methods like clay pots.

Methods:

A Study was conducted among 188 Indian physicians attending a diabetes conference in December 2018 to evaluate the feasibility of indigenous storage methods.

Results:

It was observed that although the use of alternate indigenous methods like clay pots was recommended by them, the proportion was low. The awareness of literature on these methods for insulin storage validation was also less than 50%. Owing to the lack of validation studies on indigenous methods, nearly 80% of the physicians felt that they were not confident to recommend them. Besides, the study results highlighted the necessity of conducting an adequate number of validation studies on indigenous methods in the Indian setting, considering their scarcity.

Conclusion:

This is the first time we highlight ethical dilemmas through a study among physicians when they advise non-refrigerator methods for insulin storage, in the event of a lack of electricity supply. It is hoped that results from these studies would highlight ethical dilemmas among physicians and would motivate researchers in this field to conduct studies to validate alternative methods of insulin storage.
Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor α and γ Gene Polymorphisms among South Indian Patients with Diabetic Dyslipidaemia
Authors: Bage IJ , Kamalanathan S , Selvarajan S , Sahoo J , Mathaiyan J , Naik D
Published: April 2023

Background:

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) α and γ genes play an important role in dyslipidaemia of T2DM.

Aims:

To estimate the frequency distribution of PPAR α and γ gene polymorphisms in South Indian T2DM patients with dyslipidaemia compared to healthy controls. Normative frequencies of SNPs were established and compared with data for 1000 genome populations.

Methods:

Eligible 382 cases and 336 age and sex-matched controls were enrolled. Six SNPs in PPARα [rs1800206 C>G (Leu162Val), rs4253778 G>C, rs135542 T>C] and PPARγ [rs3856806 (C>T), rs10865710 (C>G), rs1805192 C>G (Pro12Ala)] genes were selected for genotyping.

Results:

The allele and gene frequencies did not significantly differ between the diabetic dyslipidaemia cases and healthy controls. However, they were significantly different from that of 1000 genome populations except for rs1800206 C>G (Leu162Val) and rs1805192 C>G (Pro12Ala).

Conclusion:

The studied polymorphisms in PPARα and PPARγ genes are not associated with diabetic dyslipidaemia among South Indian patients.
A Questionnaire-Based Prospective Study to Assess Professional and Personal Satisfaction amongst Endocrine Surgeons in India
Authors: Gaurav K , Singh U , Roy S , Anand A , Ramakant P , Kumar S , Sonkar Abhinav Arun
Published: April 2023

Background:

Endocrine surgery (ES) has been a well-recognised surgical carrier option for trainees across the globe. With the successful running of Magister Chirurgiae (MCh) training programmes at various premiere medical institutions, it is rapidly gaining popularity in India. This study was conducted to assess multiple aspects of practising endocrine surgeons in India such as financial well-being, career satisfaction, and work-life balance.

Materials and Methods:

A questionnaire-based survey was circulated amongst the members of the Indian Association of Endocrine Surgeons. The questionnaire included questions on various professional and personal fronts of practising endocrine surgeons in India such as training in ES, contentment/satisfaction with the field, teaching/training scenario of ES in India and comparison with opportunities outside India, rating in surgical calibre as well as choices regarding change of sector, change of speciality, etc.

Results:

Seventy-three endocrine surgeons participated in the study. 46.6% were ES faculties working in different medical institutes, 26% were consultants in private practice, 16.4% were ES residents training under the MCh curriculum, and 11% were general surgeons practising ES. 35.6% had less than five years of experience, 27.4% had an experience of 5–10 years and 37% had more than 10 years of experience. 79.5% said ES was their first choice. 26% had beforehand exposure to other specialities before joining ES. Academic satisfaction was found to be fulfilling in 54.8%, overall work satisfaction in 71%, surgical work satisfaction in 54.8%, financial satisfaction in 43.8%, and personal life satisfaction in 71.2%. 60.3% felt burnt out once every six months, 35.6% felt it every three months and 4.1% felt the same every month. 61.6% said that it was difficult to balance their personal and professional lives. 61.6% believed that ES training in India was better or at par compared to training outside Indian territories. 58.9% felt their surgical skill calibre was equivalent, while 27.4% claimed to be superior to their peers in other surgical specialities. 63% felt confident by the end of their training period in handling all spectrum of surgeries about ES. 82.2% had no thoughts of changing specialities, whereas 52.1% opted for a change of sector. 61.6% felt there was no gender bias in this field.

Conclusion:

This study is the first of its kind done among practising endocrine surgeons in India, and shows that overall surgeon satisfaction was high, wherein academic surgeons had higher career satisfaction when compared with those private practice surgeons. The quality of life of endocrine surgeons should be improved to ensure better work-life balance which can help in strengthening the cause of ES as a separate super speciality while turning the spotlight on for the younger surgeons to see.
Prevalence of Hyperglycemia in Pregnancy and Related Screening Practices in Rural Dehradun: The First Population-Based Study from Uttarakhand (PGDRD-1)
Authors: Mishra S , Semwal J , Srivastava A , Kumar Mishra S
Published: April 2023

Aims:

Phase I of the Prevalence of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Rural Dehradun (PGDRD) project estimates hyperglycemia in pregnancy (HIP) prevalence and identifies gaps in the utilization of community-related services in rural areas of the Dehradun district (western Uttarakhand); a state where notably no prior population-based study has ever been conducted despite being an Empowered Action Group state for more than two decades.

Methods:

Using a multistage random sampling technique, 1,223 pregnant women locally registered in the rural field practice area of a block were identified. Those requiring HIP screening were subjected to a 2-h 75 g oral glucose tolerance test during the house visit irrespective of their period-of-gestation and last meal timings, diagnosed using the Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group India (DIPSI) criterion (when indicated). Data were collected by personal interviews using a pretested data collection tool. Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20.0 was used for analysis.

Results:

The overall HIP prevalence recorded was 9.7% (95% CI: 8.1-11.5%); the majority (95.8%) were GDM followed by overt DIP (4.2%). Less than 1% of the subjects (0.7%) self-reported pre-GDM. Despite this burden, more than three-fourths were never screened for HIP in their pregnancy. Of those tested, the majority availed secondary healthcare facilities. Few even had to bear expenses in private with a very handful being tested free-of-cost by ANM in the community; findings that altogether sharply contrast to those recommended by national protocols.

Conclusion:

Despite the high HIP burden, beneficiaries are unable to utilize community-related universal screening protocols as desired.
COVID-19 olfactory dysfunction, evaluation of onset, and persistence
Authors: Almaamuri Abdulhusein Mizhir , Mohammed Mohammed M.
Published: April 2023

Olfactory dysfunction (OD) is a common feature of COVID-19. The goal of the study was to define the modes of onset of OD in the clinical course of the disease and to follow the cases for 12–18 months in order to estimate the differences in the recovery time from OD over the course of the disease. We managed to follow a total of 325 patients (females: 198, males: 127) in the Babylon governorate in Iraq. All were COVID-19 patients who should have OD during the course of the disease. COVID-19 infection was established in all patients by swab test, i.e. polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and/or chest computed tomography findings of pneumonia compatible with COVID-19. Detailed medical records were obtained directly from the patients or their relatives. The patients were then followed up by telephone and questioned with structured questionnaires concentrating upon general clinical features and the sense of olfaction. Information about the presence of olfactory disorders, their occurrence, and development was recorded. Based on the onset of OD, the patients were categorized into three groups. Olfactory functions were assessed primarily by face-to-face interview and then (if necessary) by a telephone questionnaire assessing self-reported olfactory function and olfactory-related quality of life, which measures the subjective olfactory capability (SOC). In the first 2 weeks, 148 (45.5%) patients reported complete recovery from OD, of which 90 (73.2%) patients joined at the end of the 1st month. OD persistence was observed in 11 (3.3%) patients toward the end of the 1st year, in 5 (1.5%) patients at the end of the 15th month, and only in two (0.6%) patients at the end of the 18th month. We found no significant correlation between the type of onset of OD and the duration and persistence of OD. Most sufferers of COVID-associated OD recover their sense of smell within the 1st month.
Effect of ultrasound treatment of the skin on activation of Langerhans cells and antibody production in rodents
Authors: Enjo Satoko , Hazama Yutaro , Kimura Soichiro , Morimoto Yasunori , Ueda Hideo
Published: April 2023

In this study, we investigated whether stimulating the skin with ultrasound (US) could activate Langerhans cells (LCs) – antigen-presenting cells in the epidermis and stimulate antibody production following the subcutaneous and intradermal injection of ovalbumin (OVA) in hairless rats and BALB/c mice. Three different US frequencies (20 kHz, 1, and 3 MHz) were used and the expression of langerin was monitored as a marker for the activation of LCs in the epidermal sheet. In hairless rats, the langerin signal peaked at 12 h post-US treatment and returned to control levels at 24 h. Its expression increased with increasing irradiation time, up to 20 min, and 20 kHz US induced the highest langerin expression among the three frequencies tested. These results were reproduced in BALB/c mice. When the skin was pretreated with 20 kHz US at 0.41 W/cm2 for 10 min, the production of OVA-specific immunoglobulin G1 in mice increased by 2.8- and 3.4-fold 28 days after subcutaneous or intradermal OVA injections, respectively. These findings indicate that stimulating the skin with US can trigger skin immune responses, leading to effective antigen-specific antibody production. US-assisted transdermal vaccine delivery delivers antigens to the skin and evokes an immune response, providing an effective noninvasive immunization strategy.
Investigation renin inhibitor activity from flavonoids derivates by in silico study
Authors: Eff Aprilita Rina Yanti , Yenhart Ivana Theresia , Eden Yonatan , Rahayu Sri Teguh , Mahayasih Putu Gita Mayawidyaswari
Published: April 2023

Flavonoids have various pharmacological activities, such as antihypertensive, anticancer, and and antidiabetic effects. Several studies have shown that luteolin, quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin, naringenin, hesperetin, and epicatechin have antihypertensive effects, but the mechanism of action has yet to be discovered with certainty. This study aims to identify flavonoids from luteolin, quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin, naringenin, hesperetin, and epicatechin as renin inhibitors through in silico study; seven flavonoid compounds were docked with 2V0Z with renin inhibitor (Aliskiren) in humans (Homo sapiens 6 LU7) using AutoDock v4.2.6. SwissADME was used to evaluate the pharmacokinetic characteristics of these substances. Results molecular binding of luteolin, quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin, naringenin, hesperetin, and epicatechin, has potential as renin inhibitors with affinity energy values lower than those of aliskiren of −9.3; −9.3; −10.0; −9.2; −9.9; −9.3; and −9.7 kcal/mol. The interactions of these seven compounds have the same catalytic activity as aliskiren on two aspartic acid residues, Asp32 and Asp215. The analysis of pharmacokinetic profiles and the search for physical and chemical properties showed that the seven compounds violated three of the five Lipinski rules, while aliskiren violated one. Hesperitin, kaempferol, and naringenin had similarities with aliskiren on the amino-acid residues in the renin-binding pocket. However, based on pharmacokinetic analysis, the three compounds had an oral pharmacokinetic profile that could have been better than aliskiren.
Laparoscopic subcutaneous onlay mesh repair for ventral hernia: Our early experience
Authors: Makam Ramesh , Chamany Tulip , Nagur Basavaraj , Bilchod Suhas Satish , Kulkarni Atul
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

Repair of the ventral hernia is an ongoing challenge in surgery, and a number of surgical techniques have been developed ranging from direct suturing techniques to the use of various mesh types in different planes of the abdominal wall to close the defect and strengthen the musculofascial tissue. Laparoscopic subcutaneous onlay mesh (SCOM) repair is a novel procedure developed recently for ventral hernia repair. We would like to share our experience with laparoscopic SCOM repair.

Patients and Methods:

This is a prospective observational study of patients who have undergone ventral hernia repair at Bangalore Endoscopic Surgery Training Institute and Research Centre from June 2020 to June 2022. A total of 20 patients are included in this study.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The data were entered into MS Excel and analysed.

Results:

A total of 20 patients underwent SCOM repair with a defect size measuring up to 8 cm × 8 cm and a mean operative time of 117 min. Three patients had seroma formation and one patient had surgical site infection. No recurrence is seen after 1-year 2-month follow-up.

Conclusion:

SCOM repair is the newer approach to ventral hernia repair with the advantage over open onlay mesh repair in terms of less pain and better cosmesis. SCOM repair avoids intraperitoneal dissection which may lead to visceral injuries as well as subsequent intraperitoneal adhesions. The acceptance of such surgeries would depend on further long-term studies.
‘Shifting from Anxiety to the New Normal’
Authors: Sivaraman Ganesan , Lakshmanan Jijitha , Paul Britzer , Thulasingam Mahalakshmy , Raghavan Bitty , Raghu Nipun , Raja Kalaiarasi , Saxena Sunil Kumar
Published: April 2023

Background:

The novel coronavirus pandemic has influenced the working practice of health-care professionals who come across symptomatic and asymptomatic COVID patients in their day-to-day practice. Especially, among HCWs in otorhinolaryngology, with the risk of exposure being high, hence were mandated to use personal protective equipment (PPE).

Materials and Methods:

The change in perceptions and patterns of PPE use throughout the COVID-19 pandemic was studied in detail through interviews conducted among 15 key informants, and the data were analyzed using health belief model in our study.

Results:

A health belief model explains the trajectory of PPE use by otorhinolaryngology health care providers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The course of usage of PPE by otorhinolaryngology health-care professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic was explained through the health belief model. During the initial days of the COVID-19 pandemic, intense perceived severity and susceptibility to COVID infection led to PPE use, and otorhinolaryngology HCWs resorted to higher grade PPEs which gave optimal protection; but in course of time with a better understanding of the natural course of illness, minimal PPEs without compromising HCW safety were used with minimal discomfort. Perceived severity of COVID infection on self and family, health knowledge, influence of peers, and support from the institution encouraged them in using PPEs.

Conclusion:

We found that various aspects of health belief model such as the perceived susceptibility, perceived severity of the disease, perceived barriers and benefits in PPE use, self-efficacy, health-related knowledge, and the cues to action influence PPE use among otorhinolaryngology HCWs. The key findings can be applied in behavior change models to promote the use of PPE in the hospitals, especially during the time of pandemic.
Psoriasis in Kaduna, North-West Nigeria
Authors: Yahya Husain
Published: April 2023

Background:

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease which may be associated with joint, cardiovascular, metabolic or psychiatric disease. Countries in North America, Northern Europe and Australia have the highest burden of disease while those in Asia, South America and Africa, the lowest. We report our experience of psoriasis in Kaduna, Nigeria, over 20 years and compare this with previous reports in the same area and in other parts of Nigeria and Africa.

Objective:

To report the relative incidence, clinical presentation, severity and associations of psoriasis seen over 20 years.

Methods:

A retrospective review of records of patients with psoriasis seen at two outpatient dermatology clinics in Kaduna, North-West Nigeria, over 20 years.

Results:

Diagnosis of psoriasis was made in 218 of 39,037 (0.6%) patients with new skin disease: Mean age 35.2 years, range (6 months to 80 years), 60% <40 years, males constituted 64.2%. Mean age of onset was 30.5 years with a quarter developing psoriasis before age 20 and 71.4% before 40 years. Psoriasis presented earlier in females than males (mean age of onset 27.6 vs. 32.2 years,P= 0.052) but was less severe. Psoriasis types were: Plaque 88.1%, guttate 6%, erythrodermic 4.6% and sebopsoriasis 0.9%. Only four patients had joint disease and other associations were infrequent. Overall, 80.3% had mild psoriasis and 13.2% had a family history.

Conclusion:

Psoriasis remains a rare and mild disease in Kaduna and is infrequently associated with joint and other systemic disease but similar in other respects to the condition elsewhere.
Pattern and Prevalence of Dental Anomalies among a Paediatric Population in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Olatosi Olubukola O. , Oyapero Afolabi , Akinwande Kehinde O. , Ayedun Oladipupo Solomon , Aladenika Emmanuel Temitope , Obe Olorunfemi I.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Dental anomalies are craniofacial abnormalities in the size, structure or number of the teeth. This study was conducted to assess the prevalence of dental anomalies among children aged 0–16 years attending the Paediatric Dental Clinic at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos, Nigeria.

Methods:

A cross-sectional design was used and data were obtained from the dental records of the Dental Clinic from January 2014 to August 2019 by two calibrated examiners, who are co-authors of the manuscript. To test for statistical differences, Chi-squared test was utilised for the categorical variables. The prevalence of the different dental anomalies was estimated and presented with frequencies.P< 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Among the 6175 patients' dental records reviewed, 50.85% (n = 3150) were male and the highest proportion of 45.4% (n = 2807) were aged between 6 and 10 years, with a mean age of 8.62 ± 3.85 years. A total of 1090 (17.52%) had dental anomalies; 465 (7.53) anomalies were in the maxilla, 263 (4.6) were in the mandible while 360 (5.83) were in both. The most common anomaly was hypoplasia 550 (9.06%), followed by retained primary tooth 546 (8.84%) and hypodontia 84 (1.36%). Dentinogenesis imperfecta 1 (0.02) and transposition 1 (0.02) were the least prevalent anomalies. Retained primary teeth (5.8%) and the cusp of Carabelli (0.4%) were slightly more prevalent among males. However, females had a higher prevalence of natal/neonatal teeth (0.4%), fusion/germination (0.4%), hypodontia (1.5%) and peg-shaped lateral incisors (0.9%).

Conclusion:

Dental anomalies' prevalence in this study was 17.52%, with a higher occurrence of anomalies in the maxilla. Hypoplasia was the most prevalent anomaly, after which was retained primary tooth, then hypodontia. Prompt diagnosis and preventive interventions are crucial for the appropriate management of these dental anomalies.