bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ASSESSMENT OF THE POSSIBILITY OF USING CHALCEDONITE POWDER AS A COMPONENT OF MORTARS
Authors: Spychał Edyta , Kotwa Anna
Published: February 2023

The article presents the results of the assessment of the possibility of using chalcedonite powder as a partial replacement for cement in mortars. Portland cement CEM I 42.5 R was used as a binder, which was replaced in the amount of 5%, 20%, 35% and 50% with chalcedonite powder. The experimental tests concerned the determination of the technological and mechanical properties of mortars: consistency, air content, compressive and bending strength, supplemented by X-ray diffraction analysis and calorimetric measurements of the pastes. The research results indicate that chalcedonite powder can be used in the production of mortars. The best mechanical properties of tested mortars were obtained in the case of replacing cement with the addition of powder in the amount of 5% and 20%.
Content Validity Ratio (CVR), Content Validity Index (CVI) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) in Mathematics Learning Independence Instruments
Authors: Prananto Irfan Wahyu , Rakhmawati Yeni , Pamungkas Tubagus
Published: February 2023

Learning independence is one of the essential things in the learning process. The demand for independent learning is enormous in the learning process at school, especially in mathematics. If responded to appropriately, these demands can help future students' psychological development. The purpose of this study was to measure the content validity of the mathematics learning independence scale to obtain instruments that are right on target. This study uses a type of quantitative research. A sample of one hundred and twenty-six students was obtained from public elementary schools in Tlogowungu District, Pati Regency. Data analysis uses the equation CVR (Content Validity Ratio), CVI (Content Validity Index), and CFA (Confirmatory Factor Analysis). The results showed that 26 of 30 items were declared valid and had a CVI value of 0.911. In contrast, for CFA, the relationship for the three indicators of learning independence was relatively high,> 0.5. This indicates that the three indicators are related; they can both measure the learning independence variable. So, the three indicators can measure learning independence variables well.
Architettura e ambiente, una relazione complessa e mobile
Authors: De Rossi Antonio
Published: February 2023

The thesis underpinning the thoughts presented in this issue is the interaction between architectural culture and the environment, between intentional environmental modification brought about by building in the mountains and its conceptualization in the historically-determined forms that have characterised modernity since the late 18th century. The environment is here understood as material – mountains, lakes, forests, climate, air, water, ice, animals – with its countless cultural and scientific modes of conceptualization.
This theme is not only up-to-date, but will be the core issue of the long phase of climate transition that is our future. Thus, it is natural to question the extent to which environmental transformation is redefining how constructive action and the environment relate to and influence each other. In order to look at this interaction in the present and in the near future, it may be essential to interrogate the two-and-a-half centuries of history of modernity within the Alps, with the progressive prevalence of urban technology cultures that will disperse the historical ways of life and the relative building practices as the 21st century advances.
CALCAREOUS NANNOPLANKTON FROM THE UPPER CRETACEOUS AND PALEOGENE DEPOSITS OF THE KAMCHATSKY MYS PENINSULA (EASTERN KAMCHATKA)
Authors:   Geological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Gladenkov A.Yu. , Ustinova M.A. ,   Geological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Bordunov S.I. ,   Geological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Olshanetskiy D.M. ,   Geological Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences
Published: February 2023

Results of the study on calcareous nannofossils found for the first time in the lower part of the Stolbovaya Group of the Kamchatsky Mys Peninsula, eastern Kamchatka, are presented. Two assemblages of different age are identified, with one assigned to the Upper Cretaceous and the other to the Paleogene (not younger than the Lutetian Stage of the Middle Eocene). The obtained data help to refine the age of terrigenous-tuffaceous sequences in the lower part of the Stolbovaya Group, which are poor in organic remains.
Using Artificial Intelligence Methods for Detection of HCV-Caused Diseases
Authors: KOÇAK Muhammed Tayyip , KAYA Yılmaz , KUNCAN Fatma
Published: February 2023

The Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) can cause chronic diseases and even lead to more serious conditions such as cirrhosis and fibrosis. Early detection of HCV infection is crucial to prevent these outcomes. However, in the early stages of infection, when symptoms are not yet evident, patients rarely undergo HCV testing. This highlights the need for alternative materials to guide HCV testing for early detection of the disease. In this study, we investigate the use of artificial intelligence technology to determine the disease status of individuals using blood data. A total of 615 individuals were included in the study. Preprocessing, filtering, feature selection, and classification processes were applied to the blood data. The correlation method was used for feature selection, where the features with high correlation values were selected and given as input to five different classification algorithms. The results of the study showed that the K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN) algorithm achieved the best classification success for detecting HCV patients, with a rate of 99.1%. This research demonstrates that artificial intelligence technology can be an effective tool for early detection of HCV-related diseases. The results indicate that the KNN algorithm can provide clear information about hepatitis infection from different blood values. Future studies can explore the use of other AI techniques and expand the sample size to improve the accuracy of the model.
Intestinal dysbiosis, obesity and metabolic syndrome: how to quit this tricky triangle?
Authors: N. B. Gubergrits  , N. V. Byelyayeva  , O. V. Tsys  , V. S. Rachmetova
Published: February 2023

The paper presents analysis of the data of worldwide literature, results of evidence-based experimental and clinical trials on the relationship between dietary habits and intestinal microbiota. The particular attention is paid to the involvement of intestinal dysbiosis and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth syndrome in the pathogenesis of obesity and metabolic syndrome. The arguments in favour of two leading hypotheses have been outlined: hypothesis of metabolic endotoxemia and «storage» hypothesis. The first one considers mechanisms of the effects of lipopolysaccharide Gram-negative intestinal flora, increased permeability of intestinal wall, endocannabinoid system, and intestinal alkaline phosphatase. The «storage» hypothesis takes into account the peculiarities of food polysaccharides’ fermentation, monosaccharides’ absorption, and the role of intestinal microbiota and metabolites of its vital activity (in particular, short-chain fatty acids) in the regulation of lipid metabolism. Particular attention is paid to the treatment: dietary changes, the use of pro- and prebiotics, fecal transplantation. The effects of food components on the intestinal microbiota have been analysed, including the dietary fiber, such as resistant starch and inulin, and fats and proteins. It has been shown that the composition of the intestinal microbiota reflects the dietary habits and composition of the diet. A high-fat diet dramatically increases the intestinal permeability due to a mechanism associated with reduced expression of proteins of epithelial tight junction, including zonulin and occludin. The substantiation has been given to the hypothesis that the intestinal microbiome associated with obesity has an increased ability to receive energy from food («accumulation effect»). Benefits of an antibiotic with a low intestinal absorption (rifaximin) have been analysed. The results of studies supporting the eubiotic properties of rifaximin and its effectiveness at intestinal dysbiosis have been presented.
Etika Bisnis Islam dalam Perilaku Bisnis Pedagang Muslim Makassar Kota Manado
Authors: Bukido Rosdalina , Mampa Adila Afifah , Jamal Ridwan
Published: February 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisa wawasan pedagang Makassar di pasar 45 Manado tentang perilaku bisnis pedagang di pasar 45 dan etika bisnis Islam dengan metode kualitatif. Etika adalah salah satu tindakan yang penting dalam diri maupun dalam berdagang atau berbisnis jika di terapkan dan dipahami dengan baik dan benar. Etika bisnis Islam sebenarnya telah di ajarkan oleh Nabi Muhammad SAW pada manusia saat sedang berdagang. Itulah mengapa etika itu penting dalam bisnis dan dalam hal keseharian. Sifat Nabi yang memiliki karakter dalam berdagang memiliki sifat shidiq, amanah, fathanah, tabligh dan istiqomah. Islam tidak melarang untuk mencari keuntungan sebanyak-banyaknya dengan cara yang halal, dalam Al-Qur’an telah diperingati tentang mencari keuntungan yang baik dan jauh dari riba. Para pedagang Makassar di pasar 45 secara tidak langsung telah menerapkan etika bisnis Islam.
ГІДРАТАЦІЯ МОЛЕКУЛ МОДИФІКАЦІЙНИХ ФОРМ ІНУЛІНУ
Authors: Грушецький Роман , Гріненко Ірина , Кузнєцова Інга , Зайчук Людмила , Данілова Катерина
Published: February 2023

Предмет дослідження. Високомолекурний полісахарид групи фруктанів – інулін та його модифікаційні форми. Мета. Дослідження можливостей одержання різних модифікаційних та просторових форм молекул інулінів. Показано методи отримання модифікаційних форм - та - інулінів. Методи. З використанням хроматографічних досліджень доведено ідентичність якісного складу одержаних форм. За допомогою електронної фотографії підтверджено залежність модифікаційних форм - і -інулінів від їх просторової будови та ступеня гідратації молекул і глобул. Результати. Відсотковий вміст часток розміром >8 мкм, які утворюються в процесі одержання -інуліну, практично у два рази більший, ніж у випадку із -інуліном, тоді як відсотковий вміст часток розміром <8 мкм, у 1,5-2 рази менший. Це можна пояснити наявністю більшої кількості кристалічної вологи у зразку -інуліну, за рахунок того, що при осадженні із води зразок не зазнає впливу дегідратанта, у згаданому випадку – етанолу, а осаджується спонтанно. Також можна припустити, що енергія поверхневого зв’язку молекула інуліну – вода набагато менша, ніж аналогічна для зв’язку етанол – вода. Методом термогравіметрії встановлено, що зразок -інуліну після висушування за 90ºС мав вагу 9,6 г, після висушування за 120ºС 8,7 г, кількість зв’язаної вологи = різниці ваги 1 і ваги 2 = 0,9г/10г, або 9% по масі дослідного зразка, та -інулін – вага 1-9,8 г, вага 2-9,3 г, кількість зв’язаної вологи 0,5 г, або 5% по масі дослідного зразка. Сфера застосування результатів. Диференційований підхід до розширення застосування одержаних форм інулінів в різних галузях харчової, фармацевтичної та інших галузях промисловості. Зокрема, як жирозамінник при виробництві різноманітних молочних продуктів, як структуроутворювач при виробництві кондитерських виробів.
КЛАСИФІКАЦІЯ ТА ВИБІР НАЙБІЛЬШ ПОШИРЕНИХ ТИПІВ КРИСТАЛОУТВОРЮВАЧІВ ДЛЯ УВАРЮВАННЯ УТФЕЛІВ
Authors: Ткаченко Сергій , Шейко Таміла , Анісімова Олена , Кузнєцова Інга
Published: February 2023

Предмет дослідження. Основним процесом у цукровому виробництві визнана кристалізація цукрози. На сьогодні актуальним став пошук методів інтенсифікації цього процесу шляхом скорочення тривалості уварювання, зниження витрат теплової енергії, зменшення втрат сахарози від термічного розкладання і отримання якісного цукру-піску з відповідним гранулометричним складом та збільшення його виходу. Одним із шляхів вирішення завдання є застосування якісного затравного матеріалу, здатного утворювати регульовану кількість кристалів необхідного розміру в концентрованих цукрових розчинах. Це дозволить за дотримання технологічного режиму в продуктовому відділенні зменшити кількість патоки за промивання кристалів цукру у центрифугах, що сприятиме зменшенню витрат палива та збільшити вихід цукру. Мета. Провести аналітичну оцінку ефективності дії найбільш поширених затравних матеріалів (кристалоутворювачів) цукрового виробництва на процес кристалізації цукрози. Методи. Аналіз і моніторингове дослідження проводилося з використанням методичних підходів, які застосовуються у вітчизняній та міжнародній практиці. Результати. Розглянуто вплив різних факторів на рівномірність кристалів цукру, проаналізовані причини утворення конгломератів кристалів при уварюванні утфелів. Наводяться типи найбільш поширених кристалоутворювачів, що застосовуються у цукровому виробництві. Сфера застосування результатів. Цукрові підприємства України одержать дані щодо застосування найбільш ефективних кристалоутворювачів в технологічному процесі цукрового виробництва
ЕКОНОМІЧНІ ПРОБЛЕМИ РОЗВИТКУ ІННОВАЦІЙНОЇ ДІЯЛЬНОСТІ В СІЛЬСЬКОГОСПОДАРСЬКИХ ПІДПРИЄМСТВАХ УКРАЇНИ
Authors: Хахула Богдан
Published: February 2023

Предмет дослідження. Сукупність теоретичних, методичних і практичних аспектів інноваційної діяльності сільськогосподарських підприємств. Мета. Теоретико-методичне обґрунтування та розробка практичних рекомендацій щодо вдосконалення інноваційної діяльності аграрних підприємств. Методи. В процесі проведення досліджень використано загальнонаукові та спеціальні методи економічних досліджень, зокрема: системний підхід, порівняльний, діалектичний та абстрактно-логічний. Результати. Проаналізовано економічні проблем розвитку інноваційної діяльності сільськогосподарських підприємств. На основі узагальнення доведено, що інновація інтерпретується як результат, оскільки інноваційній діяльності характерна попроцесна складова. Стосовно аграрного сектору концептуальної складової інновацій мають стати наступні зміни (у сфері організації діяльності сільськогосподарських підприємств, розробці та удосконаленні продуктів і послуг, створенні та застосуванні нових технологій тощо), результати яких створять умови для забезпечення продовольчої безпеки, рівня та якості екологічного й соціального благополуччя сільських територій, підвищення конкурентоспроможності вітчизняної сільськогосподарської продукції та продовольства. Важливим завданням в інноваційному розвитку сільського господарства виділяється популяризація науково-технологічних досягнень та передового досвіду. При цьому необхідно сформувати умови для розвитку наукової, науково-технічної діяльності й отримання результатів, що забезпечують незалежність та конкурентоспроможність галузі. Як показують проведені дослідження автора, аграрний сектор економіки до ключових інноваційно-активних вписувати рано, оскільки порівняно невелика кількість сільськогосподарських підприємств (переважно, це великі вертикально-інтегровані підприємницькі структури) можуть перенаправити з обігу кошти на інноваційну діяльність. Впровадження та розвиток інновацій в аграрній сфері здійснюються невисокими темпами, що зумовлено ще й галузевою специфікою, насамперед, тривалістю впровадження, розробки й освоєння інновацій та ін. Вважаємо, що для успішного розвитку інноваційних процесів у сільському господарстві необхідне виконання низки умов, що дозволяють підвищити інвестиційну привабливість галузі за допомогою збільшення темпів зростання технічного оновлення, прискорення оборотності капіталу, розвитку відповідної соціальної інфраструктури у сільському господарстві, своєчасної та адресної підтримки з боку владних структур та ін. Сфера застосування результатів. Результати дослідження можуть бути використанні при розробці комплексних програм розвитку сільських територій, в частині фінансування заходів регіональної підтримки функціонування суб’єктів підприємницької діяльності в сфері агробізнесу.
Intention Of Muslim And Non-Muslim Indonesian Investors In Investing In Retail Sukuk
Authors: Slamet Kuwat , Riestianty Riestianty , Budiyono Budiyono
Published: February 2023

This study aims to analyze the factors that influence the intention of individual investors, both Muslim and non-Muslim, to invest in Retail Sukuk issued by the Indonesian government using the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB). This study is quantitative research. Data was obtained by distributing questionnaires that had previously been tested to ensure their validity and reliability. The participant data was processed by 214 participants who came from various levels of society and various cities in Indonesia. Furthermore, the data was processed using the Microsoft Excel application and the Smart PLS-SEM application version 3.3.3. The results show that the intentions of Muslim investors and non-Muslim investors are both significantly determined by their attitude toward investing, subjective norms that exist within them, and perceptions of behavioral control. The government considers the results of this research as input for determining the right strategy to expand the retail sukuk investor base, both Muslim and non-Muslim investors in Indonesia. The limitations of this study are the number of participants which is quite small.
Experiment ended
Authors: Evans Isabelle
Published: February 2023

Conservation Cropping An Overview of Sustainable Intensified Agriculture
The Impact of Science on Species Extinction Risk (v2)
Authors: Han YouAI
Published: February 2023

The Impact of Science on Species Extinction Risk
Experiment ended
Authors: Hong Fei
Published: February 2023

The Impact of Human Activity on the Amazon Rainforest
Conservation Cropping: The Cost of Sustainably Intensified Agriculture (v2)
Authors: Han YouAI
Published: February 2023

Conservation Cropping: The Cost of Sustainably Intensified Agriculture
Multi-Fold Black Holes: Entropy, Evolution and Quantum Extrema
Authors: Maes Stephane
Published: February 2023

In a multi-fold universe, gravity emerges from Entanglement through the multi-fold mechanisms. As a result, gravity-like effects appear in between entangled particles; that they be real or virtual. Long range, massless gravity results from entanglement of massless virtual particles. Entanglement of massive virtual particles leads to massive gravity contributions at very smalls scales. Multi-folds mechanisms also result into a spacetime that is discrete, with a random walk fractal structure, and non-commutative geometry, that is Lorentz invariant, and where spacetime locations, and particles, can be modeled with microscopic black holes. All these recover General relativity at large scales, and semi-classical models remain valid till smaller scale than usually expected. Gravity can therefore be added to the Standard Model. It can contribute to resolving several open issues with the Standard Model without new Physics other than gravity. These considerations hint at an even stronger relationship between gravity and the Standard Model.In our original work on multi-fold universe, we derived area laws for black hole, and considerations on the black hole paradoxes. Our analysis of evolution of charged black holes was used to derive a new unification model based on democracy of forces and particles: the Ultimate Unification (UU), significantly different from conventional GUTs. The discrete structure of spacetime, and multi-fold mechanisms, also ensure the absence of gravitational or cosmological singularitiesRecently, progress has been made with conventional modeling of black holes, and with the AdS/CFT conjecture, it is believed to be very close to demonstrate a resolution (and/or the absence) of the information paradox. Something we had already hinted. Doing so, they also added to the modeling of the interior of black holes based on quantum considerations. Considering how we have so far been able to recover many conventional models in multi-fold universes, typically with variations, factual statements, and physical (and often microscopic) explanations of the effects, this paper is focused on deriving the equivalent model for the interior and evolution of black holes. It includes recovering the Page curve for multi-fold black holes, the quantum extremal surface inside a black hole, and resolution of the information paradox with a solution consistent with the conventional approach, but in 4D, and without dependency on the AdS/CFT correspondence, or the ER=EPR conjectures, and its wormholes. This last statement about dependencies is not totally honest, as the latter two conjectures are inherently factual in multi-fold universes, and multi-fold may be, or correspond to, wormholes.Anecdotally, we also obtain, that black holes behave as if they had singularities, despite the absence of singularity in a multi-fold universe. The quantum extremal surface plays a key role in significant recovery of information, and in explaining the Page curve, although different from conventional models.
The Bilionare Film Inspirasi
Authors: winarendra franceline princesa
Published: February 2023

Film The Billionaire berlatar belakang tahun 2004, menceritakan seorang remaja laki-laki bernama Ittipat/Tob yang hendak meminjam uang ke bank. Ia bercerita kepada kreditur tentang masa lalunya yang hobi bermain gim. Suatu saat, teman di video gimnya ingin membeli sebuah item miliknya
Belajar Berani Wirausaha Otomotif dari Lamborghini
Authors: candra michael eldorado
Published: February 2023

pulanLamborghini didirikan oleh Ferruccio Lamborghini yang awalnya mengikutiperang pada perang dunia kedua sebagai mekanik.Ferruccio memiliki teman baik yaituMattieo yang memiliki keahlian yang sama sehingga mendirikan Lamborghini awalnyamembuat traktor dan seiring berjalannya waktu perusahaannya sukses sehinggamengembangkan lamborghini menjadi perusahaan kendaraan supercar.Sebagai4pengusaha kita tidak boleh patah semangat,kata-kata dari orang lain bisa kita gunakansebagai motivasi agar bisa lebih baik dari sekarang,kita juga harus memiliki kenekatanserta mengatur pegawai dengan pintar.
Experiment ended
Authors: Zhang Wei
Published: February 2023

The Benefits of Zoos for Society and Wildlife
The Impact of Science on Species Extinction Risk
Authors: Han YouAI
Published: February 2023

The Impact of Science on Species Extinction Risk
The impact of facial expression and communicative gaze of a humanoid robot on individual Sense of Agency
Authors: Lombardi Maria , Roselli Cecilia , Kompatsiari Kyveli , Rospo Federico , Natale Lorenzo , Wykowska Agnieszka
Published: February 2023

Sense of Agency (SoA) is the feeling of control over one’s actions and their outcomes. A wellestablishedimplicit measure of SoA is the temporal interval estimation paradigm, in whichparticipants estimate the time interval between a voluntary action and its sensory consequence.In the present study, we aimed to investigate whether the valence of action outcome modulatedimplicit SoA. The valence was manipulated through interaction partner’s (i) positive/negative facialexpression, or (ii) type of gaze (gaze contact or averted gaze). The interaction partner was thehumanoid robot iCub. In Experiment 1, participants estimated the time interval between the onsetof their action (head movement towards the robot), and the robot’s facial expression (happy vs. sadface). Experiment 2 was identical, but the outcome of participants’ action was the type of robot’s gaze(gaze contact vs. averted). In Experiment 3, we assessed—in a within-subject design—the combinedeffect of robot’s type of facial expression and type of gaze. Results showed that, while the robot’sfacial expression did not affect participants’ SoA (Experiment 1), the type of gaze affected SoA in bothExperiment 2 and Experiment 3. Overall, our findings showed that the robot’s gaze is a more potentfactor than facial expression in modulating participants’ implicit SoA.
From a Single Punch to Weapon Use: An Event Typology of Public Place Violence
Authors: Liebst Lasse Suonperä , Moeller Kim Kristian , Friis Camilla Bank , Ejbye-Ernst Peter , Philpot Richard , Heinskou Marie Bruvik , Lindegaard Marie Rosenkrantz
Published: February 2023

Public place violence has been linked to the night-time economy and alcohol intoxicated male strangers, but it remains understudied whether other types of violence are also found in public settings. In addressing this gap, we apply latent class analysis to develop an inductive event typology of public place violence. We analyze a sample of 500 police reported public assaults from Copenhagen, Denmark, which have been systematically coded for a range of situational and individual properties. Five event-types of public violence are identified—in addition to the well-known night-time economy related type, we found classes characterized by excessively violent behaviors; revenge among familiar persons; weapon use and severe victim injuries; and disrespect encounters in everyday contexts. We consider how our findings may evaluate the generalizability of key micro-interactional theories of violence, and discuss the implications of our typology for crime prevention.
A reward effect on memory retention, consolidation, and generalization?
Authors: Schultz Heidrun , Stoffregen Hanna , Benoit Roland Georg
Published: February 2023

Reward improves memory through both encoding and consolidation processes. In this pre-registered study, we tested whether reward effects on memory generalize from rewarded items to unrewarded but episodically-related items. 59 human volunteers incidentally encoded associations between unique objects and repeated scenes. Some scenes typically yielded high reward, whereas others typically yielded low reward. Memory was tested immediately after encoding (n=29) or the next day (n=30). Overall, reward had only a limited influence on memory. It neither enhanced consolidation, nor did its effect generalize to episodically related stimuli. We thus contribute to understanding the boundary conditions of reward effects on memory.
Effectiveness of captioned videos for incidental vocabulary learning and retention: the role of working memory
Authors: Teng Mark Feng
Published: February 2023

Working memory (WM) may be an essential component of incidental vocabulary learning and retention from captioned videos. However, how WM affects young learners’ incidental vocabulary learning under different types of captions remains unclear. The present study employs a between-subject research design. The main purpose is to examine how two types of WM— phonological short-term memory and com- plex WM—impact vocabulary learning outcomes incidentally learned and retained from three types of captioning: (1) glossed captions (GCs), (2) full captions (FCs), and (3) key- word captions (KCs). A total of 125 young learners (Mage = 12.17, SD=1.06) watched four videos and completed two vocabulary tests administered as pretest, posttest, and delayed tests. After treatment, participants completed two WM tasks: (1) an operation span test for measuring complex WM, and (2) a nonword repetition test for measuring pho- nological short-term memory. The findings reveal that (1) captioning types, particularly GCs, led to the best outcome in incidental vocabulary learning and retention, and (2) pho- nological WM provided a more predictive effect on incidental vocabulary learning and retention than complex WM. Phonological and complex WM may have different predictive effects on incidental vocabulary learning and retention under different types of captioning. Relevant implications were discussed based on these results.
Fractal Theory of Income Distribution
Authors: Ranaldi Marco
Published: February 2023

This paper uses fractal mathematics to describe the distribution of income among individuals. It shows the existence of a stochastic fractal relationship between a country’s output and income inequality: the higher the level of income inequality, the lower the country’s output, all else being equal. The framework allows us to isolate the impact of inequality on output from that of average growth. (Stone Center on Socio-Economic Inequality Working Paper)
Preparation and Characterization of Organic Inorganic Hybrid MAPbI2Br Perovskite
Authors: Mohammed Mahdi Wadah , S. Baron Aref
Published: February 2023

In this work, perovskite compounds were prepared and studied by using chemical methods for methyl ammonium halide MABr and lead halide PbI2. The main objective of the study is to successfully prepare new types of perovskites using the one-step method by changing the weight ratios of lead halide PbI2 in a fixed weight ratio of methyl ammonium bromide MABr, where they were classified into samples P1 which represents MABr/PbI2 weight ratios (0.22:0.39)g, P4 which represents MABr/PbI2 weight ratios (0.22:0.59)g and P7 which represents MABr/PbI2 weight ratios (0.22:0.79)g and the impact of this change was studied. High crystallinity was obtained in the crystal structure of the P4 sample after increasing the weight ratio of lead halide from 0.39 g to 0.59 g.  Then the crystallization decreased and the crystal structure changed after increasing the weight ratio from 0.59 g to 0.79 g in the sample P7. The increase in PbI2 weight from 0.39 g to 0.59 g and 0.79 g affected the absorption edge and shifted widely towards long wavelengths (red shift) from 625 nm to 691 nm and 805 nm.  The energy band gap changed from 1.98 eV to 1.79 eV and to 1.53 eV. The study showed that the surface morphology of these samples, where a sample with a homogeneous film with a high density was obtained, resulted from an increase in the weight of lead halide from 0.39 g to 0.59 g and with small Nano-diameters of 34.25 nm for the P4 sample. After increasing the weight from 0.59 g to 0.79 g, a sample was obtained with a less dense membrane that contains many voids and a semi-micro large particle diameter is 97.32 nm for the sample P7. Finally, the sample P4 was selected with good crystalline and optical properties and a homogeneous surface formation with a high density that could enter into the special composition for the manufacture of optical devices with high efficiency and stability.
Evaluation of sample rejection rate in clinical biochemistry laboratory before and after implementation of six-sigma methodology
Authors: Nandita Maini Jindal  , Bajwa Navjot Kaur , Bansal Ekta , Ghosh Abhra
Published: February 2023

Background: In pre-analytical phase of Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory, sample rejection is a very frequent and important source of error. It affects the overall quality of laboratory services and patient care by increasing cost and turnaround time. It leads to test abandonment and causes inconvenience to patients and staff.
Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to implement the define, measure, analyze, improve, and control (DMAIC) method of six-sigma to decrease the rate of sample rejection in Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory.
Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, sample rejection rates were analyzed in a clinical Biochemistry Laboratory before and after implementation of DMAIC method of six-sigma. Baseline rejection rates were calculated for a year and classified based on cause of rejection and patient location. Current defects per million opportunities and six sigma values were calculated. This was followed by root cause analysis and implementation of corrective and preventive measures. Reanalysis of the baseline measures was done to observe the impact of these measures.
Results: After implementation of DMAIC, the overall rejection rate fell from 1.07% to 0.49% with an increase in sigma value from 3.8 to 4.1.
Conclusion: Six-sigma tool like DMAIC can be successfully implemented to improve sample rejection rates ultimately improving the quality of laboratory services in resource limited setting with minimal financial implications.
Management of ganglion by double loop suture technique
Authors: Kumar Pavneesh , Giroti Chetan , Dhobal Aviral , Raj Singh Anoop
Published: February 2023

Background: Ganglion is a common cystic swelling around wrist presenting in outdoor department, clinical examination is sufficient for making diagnosis of simple cyst, cosmesis and pain are main presenting complain. Treatment includes aspiration with or without injections but has high recurrence rate, surgical excision has low recurrence rate but being invasive there are numerous complications and should be warrant depending on patient complain. Minimal invasive loop suture technique has low recurrence and minimalcomplication.
Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to manage the ganglion by double loop suture technique.
Materials and Methods: One hundred and four patients with volar and dorsal wrist ganglion fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria received treatment by minimal invasive loop suture technique, 6-month follow-up was done for reviewing any recurrence of cyst.
Results: From these 104 patients, 76 were females and 28 were males, with a median age of 22 years. Ninety-four (90.4%) patients presented with dorsal wrist ganglion and 10 (9.6%) patients had volar wrist ganglion. The size of simple ganglia varied from 10 mm to 32 mm Cosmesis was the most common presenting complaint in 84 patients (80.7%) followed by pain (19.3%). Recurrence of swelling was observed in four patients (3.8%). Complications were encountered in two cases in the form of superficial infection at the site of entry point of threads.
Conclusion: Radical surgical excision is gold standard but warranted by patient complains as there are numerous complications. Double loop suture technique is an ambulatory surgical procedure and has very promising results with low recurrence rate and complications.
Relationship between maternal Vitamin D levels and neonatal Vitamin D levels with delayed neonatal hypocalcemia - A hospital-based observational study
Authors: Aasif Aziz Wani  , Bhat Mohd Ashraf , Showkat Hussain Tali
Published: February 2023

Background: Vitamin D has important role in regulating various metabolic processes in the body including calcium metabolism. Fetuses and neonates are dependent on their mothers to get adequate supply of Vitamin D. Maintaining adequate maternal Vitamin D levels may be highly beneficial for their fetuses and the babies.
Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to find a correlation, if any, between maternal Vitamin D status and neonatal Vitamin D levels and delayed neonatal hypocalcemia.
Materials and Methods: Fifty mother infant pairs with neonatal late onset hypocalcemia were included in the study. Detailed clinical history along with simultaneous maternal and neonatal blood samples were taken for estimation of calcium, phosphorus, parathormone (intact), and Vitamin D levels.
Results: Mean maternal and neonatal serum Vitamin D (25-OH Vitamin D) levels were 19.5±7.5 and 15±8.5, respectively. There was a statistically significant correlation between maternal and neonatal Vitamin D levels (P=0.001). There was also a direct correlation between low maternal Vitamin D levels and delayed hypocalcemia in neonates (P=0.048). Mean maternal and neonatal serum calcium levels were 9±1.5 mg/dl and 6.2±0.4 mg/dl, respectively. There was no significant statistical correlation between the two (P>0.05).
Conclusion: Maternal Vitamin D level appears to be an important determinant of neonatal Vitamin D and serum calcium levels.
Assessment of quality of care of diabetic patients by health-care professionals in a city – A community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Rajendra Tulank Ankushe  , Mohan Kodiba Doibale  , Purushottam Kumar
Published: February 2023

Background: Diabetes is undoubtedly one of the most challenging health problems of the 21st century. Patients from poor parts of the Indian urban population do not frequently have access to these health benefits despite having access to reliable screening methods and antidiabetic drugs. Hence, this study was designed to assess the quality of care of diabetic patients by health-care professionals in a city.
Aims and Objectives: This study aims to assess the quality of care of diabetic patients by health-care professionals in a city.
Materials and Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in the city of Aurangabad, Maharashtra. The sample size calculated was 145 and we used the probability proportionate to size sampling technique to identify the number of participants.
Results: Overall 9% of patients had good quality of care. Almost 61.4% were dissatisfied with their treating physician. Almost all patients going to public health centers complained of the unavailability of medications whereas three-fourth (73.5%) of patients complained of unavailability of investigations. Only 23.4% of diabetic patients were referred to a specialist for screening or management of complications.
Conclusion: Quality of care assessed through patient’s opinion showed that most diabetic patients were not well informed about comprehensive diabetic management by the health-care providers. Glycemic controls in diabetic patients were far below recommended standards.
Clinico-pathological study of mucormycosis in post-COVID patients at government general hospital, Nizamabad
Authors: Manisha Thavanam  , Farida Begum  , Seshava Puri Smitha Vadana  , Nagarjuna Chary Rajarikam  , Harish Swamy Dharmagadda
Published: February 2023

Background: Mucormycosis is a rare, opportunistic fungal infection with high morbidity and mortality. Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) associated mucormycosis has been increasing in frequency since early 2021, particularly among patients with uncontrolled diabetes and systemic corticosteroid treatment.
Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to study mucormycosis occurrence in COVID-19 patients at Government General Hospital, Nizamabad – A tertiary care center and to correlate mucormycosis with comorbidities and previous treatment modalities among admitted post COVID-19 patients.
Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional retrospective study was done for 3 months, from June 2021 to August 2021. Fifty suspected cases of mucormycosis specimens sent to the Department of Pathology, Government General Hospital, Nizamabad for histopathological diagnosis were considered. Clinical history and treatment details were noted. Tissues obtained were fixed in 10% formalin, routine hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stains were done. Gomori’s methenamine silver stains were done.
Results: Mucormycosis was most common in males 37 (74%) and common in the age group of 41–50 years (26%). Diabetes mellitus is the most common comorbidity (60%). The mean duration between diagnosis of COVID-19 and development of symptoms of mucor was 6–40 days. Out of 50 cases, 46 patients received steroid therapy and 39 cases were given oxygen support.
Conclusion: Mucormycosis is a rapidly progressive life-threatening opportunistic infection. Post COVID-19 patients with uncontrolled diabetes are more prone to it and an important predisposing factor. Treatment with steroid therapy and oxygen support must be carefully monitored and used in a vigilant manner. Histopathological examination and clinical correlation are essential for early diagnosis and treatment.
Guillain-Barre syndrome in SARS CoV-2: Case series of uncommon neurological complication from tertiary care center, Bengaluru, South India
Authors: Mamatha Tittamegalapalya Ramalingaiah  , Latha Venakataramanappa  , Sumedha Swamy  , Virender Singh  , Vinutha Bagalur Srinivas Murthy
Published: February 2023

Coronavirus disease is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 virus. It predominantly affects respiratory system causing fever, cough, and breathlessness. But it can also affect central nervous system and peripheral nervous system. It is important that physicians keep a high index of suspicion for patients with neurologic symptoms following a recent or during COVID-19 infection. The low rate of initial diagnosis is alarming, as few of the percentage of patients with Guillain-Barre syndrome will develop respiratory muscle weakness requiring invasive ventilation. The ability to recognize the disease process could lead to life saving management. Furthermore, the initiation of therapy such as plasma exchange or intravenous immunoglobulin leads to an accelerated recovery time.
Parental apprehension, knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding COVID-19 infection in children: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Raghava Badabagni  , Raj Kiran Donthu  , Prudhvi Raju Pericherla V  , Hari Krishna Koushik Bodagala  , Pardha Saradhi
Published: February 2023

Background: With the anticipation of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) third wave, there were reports of increased rates of infection among children. So naturally, there will be apprehension among parents regarding this. Knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs) play an important role in effectively controlling the infection.
Aims and Objectives: The study is an attempt to understand parental apprehension and their KAP regarding COVID-19 infection in children.
Materials and Methods: A total of 367 parents participated. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using R language.
Results: Higher scores of knowledge were reported among higher age (P=0.003), higher education (P<0.001), professionals (P<0.001), urban area (P<0.001), and two or more children (P=0.022). Good practices were noted among unemployed (P<0.001), Hindu religion (P=0.045), and single child (P=0.002). Higher educated and employed had good knowledge, but practices were better among unemployed and illiterate. Knowledge was positively correlated with attitude (r+0.54, P<0.001, 95% CI [0.47, 0.61]) and practices (r+0.26, P<0.001, 95% CI [0.17, 0.36]); and attitudes with practices (r+0.32, P<0.001, 95% CI [0.22, 0.41]).
Conclusion: The study finds that generally, parents have good KAP toward COVID-19. However, they have limited knowledge regarding COVID-19 infection in children contributing to parental apprehension. It is time we spread awareness on KAPs regarding COVID-19 infection in children.
Nasogastric tube insertion in anesthetized intubated adult patients: A comparison between the “reverse Sellick’s maneuver with throat pack in situ” and reverse Sellick’s maneuver alone
Authors: Roy Mrinal Kanti , Maitra Sanjay , Mandal Sangita , Arpita Laha  , Mandal Mohanchandra
Published: February 2023

Background: Nasogastric tube (NGT) insertion is an essential procedure in the operating room for which the anesthesiologists often take the responsibility. This simple procedure often becomes difficult in anesthetized patients. Literature reveals the flooding of studies and novel techniques are in the pipeline, indicating that quest for the best is still on.
Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the proportion of patients in whom successful NGT insertion would be possible in the first attempt using either the “Reverse Sellick’s maneuver (RSM) with throat pack in situ” technique or RSM alone; and to compare the proportions between the two groups.
Materials and Methods: This interventional study was performed on 222 adult patients (≥18 years), undergoing abdominal surgeries requiring intraoperative NGT insertion. Patients received NGT insertion using the combined RSM with “throat pack in situ” technique (Group A, n=111) or RSM alone (Group B, n=111). The proportion of patients in whom successful NGT insertion was possible in the first attempt using either of the techniques and the time taken for correct placement of NGT in both the groups. In addition, the incidence of adverse events was noted.
Results: Although, NGT placement was possible in higher proportions of patients in Group A in first attempt compared with Group B (91% vs. 83.8%), it was not significant on analysis (P=0.106). The procedure time in both the groups was comparable (30.0±4.0 vs. 29.9±4.3, P=0.859). Coiling was found to be significantly more in the RSM alone technique as compared to the combined method. (P=0.04).
Conclusion: With comparable success rate and lesser incidence of adverse events, it can be commented that the RSM with throat pack in situ technique appears to be a better alternative to RSM alone.
Antimicrobial drug utilization pattern in a tertiary level intensive care unit in Northern India: Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme need of the hour
Authors: Banday Muddasir , Manzoor Muntaha , Mohammad Akbar Shah  , Zulfiqar Ali  , Ahmad Nazir , Zulfkar Qadri
Published: February 2023

Background: Antimicrobial drugs are the most frequently prescribed drugs in hospital settings with intensive care unit (ICU) patients showing the highest consumption of these drugs. Antimicrobial overuse and misuse is attributed to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR in coming years will emerge as a global pandemic, maiming the modern health-care system. High consumption of antimicrobial drugs is one of leading factors contributing to AMR.
Aims and Objectives: This study aimed at evaluating the prescription pattern of antimicrobial drugs in ICU and estimates the burden of inappropriate antimicrobial drug utilization in ICU settings of a tertiary level teaching hospital.
Materials and Methods: The current study was conducted on 100 patients over a period of 6 months, admitted in surgical ICU (SICU), and neuro SICU (NICU) of a tertiary level hospital in Jammu and Kashmir, India. Study patients were identified through daily review of pharmacy records and antimicrobial drugs prescribed for the initial 5 days of ICU admission were documented in a well-designed questionnaire consisting all the necessary information regarding antibiotic therapy.
Results: Out of the 100 enrolled study subjects, 98% received an empiric therapy. Majority of the patients were given a combination antimicrobial therapy during the initial 5 days of ICU admission. The most common antibiotic prescribed as monotherapy was ceftriaxone during the initial 2 days of ICU stay followed by piperacillin-tazobactam and meropenem in the next 3 days. Amikacin was the most frequently prescribed antibiotic in combination therapy during first 2 days followed by vancomycin in the consecutive days. A total of 27 antimicrobial drugs belonging to 15 classes were prescribed to the study participants during the initial 5 days of ICU admission.
Conclusion: The study reports a very high consumption of antimicrobial drugs in ICUs with maximum of antimicrobial therapies prescribed empirically. A robust action plan, consisting of proper protocol for prescribing empiric antimicrobials, regular monitoring of antibiotic consumption in ICUs with a system of prospective audit, and feedback and timely interventions are a keystone of good antibiotic stewardship and should be the focus in ICU and NICU.