bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of peritoneal transport and cardiovascular outcomes of peritoneal dialysis treatment
Authors: Salikhova Karina A. , Gerasimchuk Roman P. , Sabodash Anastasia B. , Zemchenkov Alexander Yu. , Vishnevskii Konstantin A. , Bakulina Natalia V.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: Solute and water transport by peritoneal membrane has significant variation between patients; the function changes significantly over time. This affects treatment outcomes and requires individual approaches.
AIM: To evaluate the influence of the baseline peritoneal transport state, its dynamics during peritoneal dialysis and the possibility of long-term outcomes modification.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The dynamics of peritoneal transport of solutes (in peritoneal equilibrium test, PET) and water (in mini-PET) was evaluated in a prospective interventional open-label study with historical control among 96 unselected consecutive patients admitted in three dialysis centers with unified program of peritoneal membrane monitoring and protection.
RESULTS: Compared to the matched standard arm, the increase in peritoneal solute transport was significantly slower (by 9.5%) in the observation group. Ultrafiltration in classical PET decreased more slowly (by 28%). At baseline ultrafiltration was satisfactory (the proportion of the patients with ultrafiltration less 400 ml was 7.6%); water transport by small pores did not decrease (−1.1 ± 5.9 ml/year), and the decrease in total ultrafiltration (by 32.1 ± 8.2 ml/year) was due to a decrease in free water transport (by 29.9 ± 7.6 ml/year). Negative dynamics of free water transport was associated with total glucose load and with monthly glucose load greater than 2.68 kg/month. More than one case of peritonitis was associated with a more rapid decline in free water transport. The comorbidity increased in 34 of 96 patients, with median first/last scores of 5 (4–6) and 6 (4–7) points; (Wilcoxon Z = −5.423; p 0.001). When analyzed separately by peritoneal transport category, a significant worsening of the comorbidity index was observed only for high average and high transporters (Z = −2.754, p = 0.006 and Z = −3.357, p = 0.001, respectively).
CONCLUSIONS: The interaction between peritoneal transport, primarily free water transport, and cardiovascular disease is certainly two-way: deterioration of water balance due to loss of effective ultrafiltration leads to volume overload and progression of cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, cardiovascular disease contributes to peritoneal membrane damage. The most sensitive monitoring of interventions effectiveness in membrane protection and preventing cardiovascular disease progression is the separate measuring of water transport through small pores and ultrapores, which simultaneously reveals a feature of progressive peritoneal fibrosis, a potential precursor of encapsulating peritoneal sclerosis.
Clinical and laboratory-instrumental characteristics of patients with dyspepsia syndrome not associated with Нelicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Bakulina Natalia V. , Topalova Yulia G. , Tikhonov Sergey  V.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: The significant prevalence of dyspepsia in patients without Нelicobacter pylori infection, difficulties in differential diagnosis necessitate the identification of the most common nosological variants, optimization of the diagnosis algorithm.
AIM: To study clinical, laboratory and instrumental characteristics of patients with dyspepsia syndrome unrelated to Нelicobacter pylori infection.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 13C-Urea Breath test was performed to 856 patients with uninvestigated dyspepsia. According to its results, 342 patients with Нelicobacter pylori infection were excluded from the study. The remaining patients (n = 514) with negative Нelicobacter pylori status underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy and ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs. The patients with an identified organic pathology (n = 129) explaining dyspeptic complaints were excluded from the study. 208 out of the 385 patients without organic pathology agreed to undergo laboratory and instrumental examination in accordance with the study protocol. To assess dyspeptic complaints, 208 patients filled out a “Dyspepsia Questionnaire” developed by the authors. Demographic, anthropometric data, and complaints were recorded in all the study participants; experimental psychological testing was performed (Beck’s questionnaires, generalized anxiety disorder questionnaire-7, Short Form-36) and laboratory and instrumental examination (the level of pepsinogen I, pepsinogen II, immunoglobulin class G to Нelicobacter pylori and gastrin-17 in serum), esophagogastrogastroduodenoscopy with biopsy and pathomorphological assessment according to the Operative Link for Gastritis Assessment (OLGA) system, 24-hour esophageal impedance–pH monitoring, radiography of the esophagus and stomach.
RESULTS: The majority of the patients with dyspepsia syndrome were not infected at the time of Нelicobacter pylori complaints — 514 (60.1%) patients. An in-depth examination of 208 people with a negative helicobacter status and the absence of an organic pathology explaining the symptoms revealed the heterogeneity of the final diagnoses. The results of the study demonstrate positive correlations between the level of depression, anxiety and the AET (acid exposure time) index, the number of acid reflux. A decrease in the level of pepsinogen I, gastrin-17, and the ratio of pepsinogen I/II was revealed with an increase in the degree and stage of atrophy according to the results of an Operative Link for Gastritis Assessment biopsy.
CONCLUSIONS: The revealed variability of diagnoses and comorbidity in patients with similar complaints deepens the understanding of dyspepsia syndrome and explains the possible ineffectiveness of standard therapy regimens.
Time-Dependent Stress Drop Variations After Large Earthquakes Along the North Chilean Megathrust
Authors: Folesky Jonas , Kummerow Jörn
Published: November 2024

We observe a time dependence of the median stress drop in spatiotemporal proximity of large earthquakes. The median stress drop of the early aftershock seismicity is elevated for only a few days after the mainshocks and then rapidly falls back to the long-term average. This short-term variation has remained largely unnoticed by previous studies, presumably due to their usually low temporal resolution. Our study uses a recent extensive stress drop catalog, which contains more than 51,000 events from northern Chile. It includes observations from three Mw>7 megathrust earthquakes, namely the 2007 Mw 7.7 Tocopilla earthquake, the 2014 Mw 8.1 Iquique earthquake, and its largest Mw 7.6 aftershock, as well as another eleven Mw>6 earthquakes. A detailed analysis reveals that the elevated stress drop is not primarily linked to an increase of seismic moment during the early aftershock phase but is rather attributable to higher measured corner frequencies in the corresponding time interval. We propose two possible explanations: (1) The high stress changes induced by the mainshock allow failure of strong structures at or adjacent to the main rupture area, which produces higher stress drop events. After a few days, afterslip activity has reduced the in situ stresses and thereby the failure potential of the stronger regions. (2) The mainshock disturbs the fluid-sealing plate interface, allowing overpressured fluids to escape, exhibiting the so-called fault-valve behavior. The effect appears to persist only for several days until the sealing effect is restored and average stress drop levels are recovered.
The titanium triumph: Exploring the transformative world of dental implants
Authors: Rohith Akula Sai , Gupta Prachi , Fernandes Alcina , Khan Furkhan Ahmed , Ashok Anvika , Vijaya Sheetal
Published: November 2024

Dental implants have revolutionized tooth replacement by offering a permanent and lifelike solution. Titanium, due to its exceptional biocompatibility and mechanical properties, has emerged as the material of choice for dental implants. Dr. Per-Ingvar Brånemark's discovery of osseointegration in the 1960s paved the way for the widespread adoption of titanium implants, marking a paradigm shift in dental prosthetics.

The aim of this article is to explore the transformative role of titanium in dental implantology, focusing on its properties, evolution, types, advancements, clinical considerations, challenges, and future directions.

This review synthesizes literature on the properties of titanium, the evolution of dental implants, types of titanium implants (endosseous, subperiosteal, transosseous), advancements in implant design and technology, clinical considerations, patient outcomes, challenges, and future directions.

Titanium exhibits outstanding biocompatibility, mechanical strength, and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for dental implants. Endosseous implants, the most common type, mimic natural tooth roots and undergo osseointegration for stability. Subperiosteal implants rest on the jawbone surface, while transosseous implants penetrate through the bone. Advancements in implant design and technology have improved outcomes, but challenges such as peri-implantitis persist.

Titanium implants have transformed dental care, offering patients reliable and durable solutions for tooth loss. Despite challenges, ongoing research and technological innovations hold promise for further enhancing implant therapy. The future of dental implants is bright, with continued advancements poised to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Knowledge and attitude of general dental practitioners and pedodontists toward silver diamine fluoride in Maharashtra
Authors: Sachdev Sanpreet Singh , Padawe Dimple , Wankhade Ajinkya , Takate Vilas , Dighe Kishor , Agrawal Arushi
Published: November 2024

Despite advancements in preventive dentistry, the prevalence of caries, particularly in pediatric populations, continues to be a significant public health challenge. Silver diamine fluoride (SDF) has emerged as a promising and cost-effective intervention in preventing and managing dental caries, demonstrating notable success in arresting the progression of cavities. The present study aims to investigate the knowledge and attitudes of general dental practitioners (GDP) and pedodontists in Maharashtra concerning silver diamine fluoride

The present cross-sectional study was conducted using a 10-point questionnaire comprising questions relevant to the knowledge and attitude of general practitioners and pediatric dentists regarding the use of SDF. The survey was circulated to 578 dental professionals of which 332 opted to fill out the form, making the survey response rate of 57.44%. The datasheet of responses was extracted through Google Sheets and subjected to statistical analysis

: The study population (n=295) comprised 249 GDP and 46 Pediatric dentists. Despite 75.6% of respondents being aware of SDF, only 43.7% were aware of the Silver-modified atraumatic restorative technique. The awareness about both, the advantages as well as disadvantages of SDF was significantly lower (p<0.05) among GDP. About 42% of respondents (n=124) were not aware of the fact that SDF application does not require local anesthetic or drilling.

Findings from the present study highlight significant differences in knowledge levels between GDPs and pediatric dentists, emphasizing the need for targeted educational interventions tailored to the distinct needs of each group. Addressing these knowledge gaps is essential for promoting informed decision-making and optimizing the integration of SDF into routine dental practice.
Crime Underreporting in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Perez-Vincent Santiago M. , Abril Verónica , Chen Cynthia , Tayo Teniola , Urrego Jimenez Andres
Published: November 2024

Crime underreporting poses a significant challenge for governments and law enforcement agencies. This study examines the extent, characteristics, and drivers of crime underreporting and provides evidence-based policy recommendations to address it. Using information from victimization surveys from 10 Latin American and Caribbean countries, the analysis reveals widespread crime underreporting, with an average of approximately three out of four crimes not reported in the countries examined. Low and heterogenous reporting rates point to potential biases in official crime statistics, with certain crimes and victim groups over- and underrepresented. A comprehensive literature review yields a menu of evidence-backed interventions, including remote reporting methods, public information campaigns, diversifying police forces, and reducing deportation risk. Beyond these policies, strengthening data collection through better and more frequent victimization surveys and alternative data collection methods, and addressing fundamental challenges such as the integrity and efficacy of law enforcement institutions appear critical to achieve long-term improvements in crime reporting and, ultimately, support effective crime responses.
The Use of Japanese Information Applications to Increase Insights about Life in Japan (A Study of Students of SMK N 1 Kedawung, Indonesia)
Authors: Jaohari Abdul Latif , Nurohmah Hety , Aan Amalia Aan Amalia
Published: November 2024

Indonesia and Japan have a long history in the past. However, currently Japan has become one of the countries with extraordinary economic power so that Indonesia has a lot of cooperation with Japan. One form of this cooperation is in the field of culture which includes how Japanese people live their daily lives. This aspect of life is one that is good to study so that we can imitate and apply good things in our daily lives. From the results of initial observations, students at SMK N 1 Kedawung still do not know about life in Japan. In connection with this, we provide a solution for an introduction method about life in Japan through the Japanese information application. From the results of the questionnaire, it is very clear that learning through information applications is very popular with students so that they are encouraged to study more deeply.
Feasibility Evaluation and Development of Educational Laboratories: Contribution to Institutional Development
Authors: Hendratno Hendratno , Istiq’faroh Nurul , Haq Muhammad Sahidul , Suprayitno Suprayitno , Fathir Amrul Huda
Published: November 2024

This study aims to optimize the use of educational laboratories as a means of institutional development at the Faculty of Education, Surabaya State University. Using a development research approach with the ADDIE model, this research involved analyzing the needs of the institution, students, lecturers, and curriculum that must be met by the education laboratory. Data were collected through questionnaires and documentation studies, then analyzed to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of the laboratory products developed. The results showed that the education laboratory at Faculty of Education has adequate facilities and infrastructure conditions, and the products developed are considered very feasible in supporting learning objectives. Attractive and interactive product design increases student engagement, while the use of appropriate language in the product strengthens the effectiveness of material communication. Overall, the optimization of educational laboratories is proven to not only support the achievement of learning objectives, but also strengthen the institution's reputation in providing relevant and quality education. Continuous evaluation is recommended to ensure the educational laboratory remains adaptive to evolving needs.
Armed Organization Offences in Turkish Criminal Law
Authors: Sağar Erdem
Published: November 2024

As long as there has been law, there have been offences, and as long as there have been offences, there have been criminal enterprises. The state has always struggled with these organizations to protect its citizens. Accordingly, offences related to criminal enterprises are regulated under Article 220 of the Turkish Penal Code. However, some criminal enterprises differ in that they directly target the state’s existence and the organs that sustain it. In such cases, the state must first protect itself to protect its citizens. To do so, it must punish organizations that target the state's organs and existence, along with their activities. As an expression of this resolve, Article 314 of the Turkish Penal Code considers it a offence to establishing, managing, being a member of an armed organization; commiting an offence on behalf of armed organization without being a member; aiding and abeting an armed organization knowingly and willingly without being in structure of that; making propaganda for an armed organization. In this study, the aim is to introduce these offences, classified as armed organization offences in Turkish Criminal Law, to the doctrine.
The Effect of Fermented Food Containing Aspergillus Oryzae (Amazake or Raw-SHIOKOJI) Consumption on Abdominal Symptoms Associated with Premenstrual Syndrome in Japanese Women
Authors: Wakana Noriaki , Wakana Mami , Inaba Sakiko , Shirai Tomomi , Homma Kazuhiro , Tanaka Etsuro , Fukuyama Naoto
Published: November 2024

Background: Psychological and physical symptoms such as irritability, headache, abdominal pain, difficulty with bowel movements, and drowsiness that occur because of hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle refer to premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The study examined whether the intake of fermented food containing Aspergillus oryza (Amazake and Raw-SHIOKOJI), a traditional Japanese food, improved the abdominal symptoms associated with PMS. Method: Eleven healthy Japanese collegiate women in their 20s participated in this interventional study. The study period was set to 28 days per phase, and the participants were examined over three separate phases: before, during, and after the intake of Amazake or Raw-SHIOKOJI. The participants were instructed to maintain a daily record of their food intake, bowel movements and menstruation throughout the study period. Results: The intake of fiber, fat, protein, and carbohydrate among 11 participants were similar, with no significant difference between the two groups. Menstrual abdominal discomfort in women in their 20s was noted during the luteal and menstrual phases. Eight participants (72.7%) experienced abdominal discomfort during the luteal phase and all participants experienced abdominal discomfort during the menstrual phase. Consuming fermented food containing Aspergillus oryzae may reduce PMS abdominal symptoms by 72.7%. Conclusion: This study showed that consumption of food containing Aspergillus oryzae reduced abdominal discomfort associated with the luteal phase and may improve menstruating women's health and quality of life.
Empirically Derived Dietary Patterns in Association with Asthma Symptoms in Children and Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Pishdad Samaneh , Sasanfar Bahareh , Nafei Zahra , Behniafard Nasrin , Karimi Mehran , Salehi-Abargouei Amin
Published: November 2024

Background: Limited data exists regarding the association between dietary patterns and asthma. This study aims to determine the relationship between empirically derived dietary patterns and the likelihood of asthma among a large population of children and adolescents living in central Iran. Methods: A total of 7667 of male and female students aged 6-14 from 48 public and private schools in YAZD urban areas entered the current cross-sectional study. Data on dietary intakes, as well as asthma symptoms and other possible confounders, were collected using a self-administered questionnaire filled by parents. Factor analysis was applied to find major dietary patterns. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for asthma development across quintiles of dietary patterns. Results: Two main dietary patterns were established. A “traditional diet” was determined by meat, fish, fruits, cooked vegetable, raw vegetable, legumes, cereals, bread, macaroni, rice, margarine, butter, olive oil, milk, yogurt, egg, nuts, potato, and a “western-like diet” was characterized by high intakes of simple sugars, fast food(hamburger), fast food (pizza), soft drinks, jelly, chocolate and biscuits of cocoa, ice cream, and sauce. After adjusting for potential confounders, individuals in the top quintile of traditional diet were 0.31 times less likely to have asthma than those in the lowest quintile (OR=0.69; 95% CI: 0.47-1.00). Moreover, individuals in the top quintile of traditional diet were 0.43 times less likely to have wheezing compared with those in the lowest quintile (OR=0.57, 95% CI: 0.46-0.70). However, individuals in the top quintile of the western diet were 0.35 times more likely to have wheezing than those in the lowest quintile (OR=1.35, 95% CI: 1.10-1.66). Conclusions: According to the results, a traditional diet might be associated with lower odds of asthma; however, a western-like diet might be adversely associated with asthma symptoms.
The Impact of Combined Cranberry Supplementation and Weight Loss Diet on Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Apoptosis Biomarkers in Patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Hormoznejad Razie , Shahi Majid Mohammad , Mahboobi Sepideh , Rahim Fakher , Helli Bijan , Alavinejad Pezhman , Dehghanseresht Narges , Sharhani Asaad
Published: November 2024

Background: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent chronic liver disease. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of combined weight loss diet and cranberry supplementation on anthropometric measurements, inflammation and antioxidant biomarkers in patients with NAFLD. Methods: In this randomized, double-blinded, and controlled clinical trial, 41 NAFLD patients were supplemented with either cranberry or placebo tablets for 12 weeks. Both groups followed a diet of 500-1000 calories less than the estimated energy requirements. Serum levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA), cytokeratin 18 M30 (CK-18 M30), chemokine C-C motif ligand 2 (CCL2) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) were measured at both baseline and the end of the study. Results: Significant improvements in TAC were observed in the cranberry group and between the two groups (P=0.006 and P=0.011, respectively), but the changes in the placebo group were not significant (P=0.325). There were no statistically significant differences in the serum levels of MDA, CK-18 M30, CCL2 and TNF-α between the cranberry and the placebo groups (P>0.05).  Conclusions: It seems that daily consumption of cranberry supplement would be beneficial in increasing serum levels of TAC. Further studies are needed to investigate the effects of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of cranberry on NAFLD.
Food Insecurity and Its Relationship with Food Intake and Demographic Factors in Pregnant Women in Tehran
Authors: Hosein Mina Haji , Eghtesadi Shahryar , Movahedi Ariyo
Published: November 2024

Background: Food security is described as physical and economic access for all people at all times to sufficient food for an active and healthy life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of food insecurity and its relationship with the health status of pregnant women referred to North Tehran Health Center. Methods: The current study is a cross-sectional study conducted on 160 pregnant women in the third trimester covered by North Tehran Health Center in 2017-2018. Food security status, and dietary intake were assessed using general demographic and socioeconomic questionnaires, USDA 18-item household food security, and semi-quantitative food frequency recall, respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS and nutritionist IV software. Significance level was set at 0.05. Results: The study showed that 21.8% of mothers suffered insecure nutritional status and 78.2% of them were in safe nutritional status. There was a significant difference (P=0.013) between the two category of food groups (P=0.013). The mean consumption of legumes in people with insecure nutrition status (65.72±42.40 g) was more than nutrition secure group (50.08±29.77 g). Other food items showed no significant difference between the two groups of safe and unsafe nutrition status. In terms of economic status, there was a significant difference between safe and unsafe groups (P=0.001). Conclusion: In this study, food insecurity rate and prevalence of pregnant women was much less than that other studies. Given the role of the economic situation in the ability to purchase and supply food, probably one of the main reasons of more consumption of legumes in insecure groups would be low-income level and lower purchasing power of other food groups, such as meat.
RESSOCIALIZAR
Authors: Chies Luiz Antonio
Published: November 2024

Ressocializar/ressocialização é uma noção/conceito adequado para o enfrentamento da questão penitenciária? Esta, em síntese, é a pergunta que o texto tem por objetivo responder. Resultado de uma pesquisa qualitativa – com utilização de questionários e entrevistas – sobre os sentidos atribuídos e percebidos por diferentes sujeitos e grupos que se envolvem com a execução das penas privativas de liberdade, a discussão e análise dos dados utiliza referenciais como Eugenio Raúl Zaffaroni e Alessandro Baratta para tensionar ambivalências e ambiguidades que aquela abarca. Sugere, ao final, que se deixe de utiliza-la no âmbito das Políticas em Serviços Penais e na área de pesquisas sobre a questão penitenciária, haja vista sua maneabilidade de sentidos comportar tanto a invisibilidade das relações entre estrutura social e punição, como permitir ilusões de entendimentos compartilhados os quais, em realidade, mascaram projetos divergentes em relação ao punir e responsabilizar nas sociedades contemporâneas.
O CONTROLE JUDICIAL DA VOLUNTARIEDADE PARA HOMOLOGAÇÃO DO ACORDO DE NÃO PERSECUÇÃO PENAL: PESQUISA EMPÍRICA NAS VARAS CRIMINAIS DE GOIÂNIA/GO
Authors: Gomes de Vasconcellos Vinicius , Paz Camylla Moreira da
Published: November 2024

O acordo de não persecução penal (ANPP), de modo semelhante aos demais mecanismos de justiça criminal negocial, pressupõe o consentimento da pessoa imputada, a qual, em troca de benefícios, conforma-se com a acusação e renúncia a direitos fundamentais, como ao silêncio, à prova e ao recurso. Assim, há um requisito para sua realização: a voluntariedade, pois a pessoa deve poder escolher de modo bem informado se responde ao processo tradicional ou se submete às condições impostas. Nos termos da legislação, tal requisito, juntamente com a legalidade, deverá ser controlado pelo juízo no momento da audiência de homologação (28-A, §4º do CPP). Diante disso, nesta pesquisa pretende-se verificar a realização de tal ato e o seu conteúdo, de modo a tentar analisar como os juízes e juízas efetuam o controle da voluntariedade do ANPP. A partir de revisão bibliográfica e pesquisa empírica com o acompanhamento de 100 (cem) audiências de homologação de ANPP em 11 (onze) Varas Criminais de Goiânia/GO, conclui-se que o controle judicial da voluntariedade é realizado de modo superficial, sem um efetivo questionamento à pessoa imputada sobre fatores determinantes da tomada de decisão e das informações consideradas para tanto. Quando não ignorada, a determinação legal que impõe a realização de uma audiência é esvaziada, visto que tal ato se torna um procedimento burocrático sem efetiva verificação e controle do acordo. Diante disso, foram feitas recomendações para consolidar e reforçar o controle judicial na justiça criminal negocial brasileira.
A Neogene succession in the city centre of Antwerp (Belgium): stratigraphy, palaeontology and geotechnics of the Rubenshuis temporary outcrop
Authors: EVERAERT Stijn , DECKERS Jef , BOSSELAERS Mark , SCHILTZ Marco , LOUWYE Stephen
Published: November 2024

A temporary outcrop near the “Rubenshuis” in the centre of Antwerp (northern Belgium) facilitated the study of the Neogene glauconitic sand of the Berchem and Kattendijk formations, west and south of their respective stratotype sections. In contrast to the latter sections, the exposed Kiel Member of the Berchem Formation contains a relatively silty interval in its upper part, which is also reflected in Cone Penetration Tests. This silty interval is rich in molluscs, including the subspecies Glossus lunulatus cf. lunulatus and Ennucula haesendoncki haesendoncki, previously unknown from this member. Dinoflagellate cysts indicate that the main body of the Kiel Member was deposited during the middle Burdigalian, while only the upper part was deposited during the late Burdigalian. The Kiel Member is covered by the shell-rich, silty sand of the Langhian Antwerpen Member (Berchem Formation). Both members display soft-sediment deformation structures, probably caused by differences in silt content between and within these units. The Antwerpen Member is incised by the Lower Pliocene Kattendijk Formation, which reduced the thickness of the former to only 1.1 m, compared to 7 m in northeastern Antwerp. As a result, the basal gravel of the Kattendijk Formation contains many fossils reworked from the Antwerpen Member, in addition to autochthonous molluscs and Ditrupa. The Zanclean fauna resembles associations known from the highest part of the Kattendijk Formation in the former Oosterweel outcrop north of Antwerp, while it differs from the fauna of the lowermost Kattendijk Formation near Doel and Kallo. Hence, the palaeontological observations corroborate the regional depositional model of this unit, suggesting that only the youngest gully sequence of the Kattendijk Formation was deposited across the city of Antwerp.
Effect of External Debt On the Financial Performance of Commercial Banks in Kenya (2008-2022)
Authors: Lumumba Immaculate Akech , Mungai Angela , Byaruhanga John
Published: November 2024

This study analyses the impact of external debt on the financial performance of commercial banks in Kenya for the period 2008-2022. Employing descriptive, correlational, and inferential research designs, the study reviewed data from the Central Bank of Kenya, the World Bank, KNBS, and IMF on a quarterly basis. By employing the Augmented Dickey-Fuller test, ROE and external debt were further qualified to be stationary at first difference. The results highlighted by the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) analysis indicated a statistically significant negative relationship between external debt and financial performance; the coefficients (-0.8998) confirmed that for every unit of increase in external debt, there would be a decline in ROE by 0.8998 units. The study establishes that external debt has been detrimental to the financial health of Kenyan banks due to the economic pressure it brings to the sector. For this purpose, it suggests that the government should avoid borrowing from external sources, and it has advised the development of measures that encourage overseas investors to invest in the country's banking sector. The policy of attracting FDI can enhance capital availability and alleviate the financial load on banking institutions. Relaxing regulations that restrict foreign investors would pave the way for this and help increase the bank’s performance, thus enhancing long-term economic growth.
PENGEMBANGAN E-LKPD BERBASIS HOTS PADA MATERI PERSAMAAN DAN PERTIDAKSAMAAN LINEAR SATU VARIABEL
Authors: Apriliana Desi , Karim Karim , Suryaningsih Yuni
Published: November 2024

Peserta didik kesulitan dalam menyelesaikan masalah yang berbentuk soal cerita. Khususnya mengaitkan gagasan matematika dengan kehidupan sehari-hari. Akibatnya, peserta didik merasa kesulitan, sehingga diperlukannya LKPD berbasis HOTS untuk mengatasi hal tersebut. LKPD juga dibuat dalam bentuk digital dikarenakan teknologi sekarang ini sudah berkembang  sehingga mudah untuk mengaksesnya menggunakan smartphone atau komputer. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis proses dan menghasilkan LKPD elektronik berbasis HOTS menggunakan Liveworksheets pada materi persamaan dan pertidaksamaan linear satu variabel yang valid, praktis, dan efektif. R&D merupakan metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini dengan model 4D, dibatasi hanya sampai tiga tahap yaitu, pendefinisian, perancangan, dan pengembangan. Tahap ketiga pengembangan dilakukan uji validitas sehingga diperoleh skor rata-rata (Va) sebesar 3,51 yang dikategorikan valid. Kemudian diperoleh nilai pratikalitasnya sebesar 79,18% yang memenuhi kriteria praktis dilihat dari angket respon peserta didik. LKPD juga efektif dilihat dari hasil jawaban LKPD yang telah dikerjakan peserta didik.
MENINGKATKAN HASIL BELAJAR SISWA KELAS V SDN SUNGAI LANGSAT MELALUI MODEL PEMBELAJARAN PBL DENGAN KONTEKS KERAJINAN ANYAMAN BAMBU
Authors: Fahjri Annisa Desti , Fajriah Noor , Sari Asdini
Published: November 2024

Salah satu penyebab hasil belajar siswa yang tidak memuaskan disebabkan karena mereka kurang terlibat aktif dalam proses pembelajaran. Siswa terbiasa hanya menerima dan kurang diberikan masalah yang berkaitan dengan kehidupan sehari-hari. Khusus materi volume kubus dan balok, siswa kesulitan menyelesaikan masalah dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui peningkatan hasil belajar siswa setelah diterapkan Model Pembelajaran PBL (Problem Based Learning) kontek kerajinan anyaman bambu pada materi volume kubus dan balok. Penelitian ini merupakan Penelitian Tindak Kelas (PTK) yang dilakukan dalam dua siklus penelitian, masing-masing siklus terdapat empat tahapan penelitian yang terdiri dari tahap perencanaan, pelaksanaan, observasi, dan refleksi. Instrumen yang digunakan dalam pengumpulan data terdiri dari lembar observasi dan tes akhir. Analisis data dilakukan menggunakan metode analisis deskriptif kuantitatif yaitu pengolahan data yang diperoleh dari angka rata-rata (mean) dan persentase. Subjek yang terlibat dalam penelitian ini ialah siswa kelas V SDN Sungai Langsat. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan terjadi peningkatan hasil belajar sebanyak 50% dari siklus I ke siklus II secara klasikal setelah diterapkan model pembelajaran PBL. Berdasarkan hasil tersebut dapat disimpulkan bahwa model pembelajaran PBL dapat meningkatkan hasil belajar siswa kelas V SDN Sungai Langsat pada materi volume kubus dan balok.
PENGEMBANGAN MODUL AJAR BERBASIS SOAL CERITA KONTEKSTUAL MATERI PECAHAN DI KELAS VII SMP
Authors: Faried Muhammad , Pasani Chairil Faif , Amalia Rizki
Published: November 2024

Modul pembelajaran yang disajikan melalui konteks dunia nyata dapat membantu peserta didik untuk lebih mudah memahami konsep matematika dengan melihat bagaimana konsep tersebut dapat diterapkan dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengembangkan Modul Ajar Matematika berbasis soal cerita kontekstual materi pecahan untuk kelas VII SMP, modul ajar dikembangkan untuk mengatasi kesulitan siswa dalam memahami materi pecahan dengan konteks kue bingka. Metode penelitian yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode penelitian dan pengembangan. Model yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah model ADDIE, yang mencakup Analisis, Desain, Development, Implementasi, dan Evaluasi. Subjek uji coba penelitian adalah 36 siswa kelas VIIG SMP Negeri 1 Banjarmasin. Analisis data menggunakan data kuantitatif dan kualitatif. Teknik pengumpulan data menggunakan instrumen validasi modul ajar, angket respon guru, dan evaluasi siswa. Hasil analisis validasi ahli menunjukkan bahwa modul ajar ini sangat valid. Hasil analisis angket respon guru menunjukkan bahwa modul ajar sangat praktis dan hasil analisis evaluasi peserta didik menunjukkan bahwa modul ajar efektif.
Effectiveness of dry needle therapy in patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain
Authors: Özyiğit Elif , Bağcıer Fatih
Published: November 2024

Background: Low back pain is a prevalent symptom worldwide, with various underlying causes, making differential diagnosis essential. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of dry needling treatment added to exercise in patients with chronic Nonspecific Low Back Pain (NLBP). The McKenzie exercise program was applied to all participants.Materials and Method: The study comprised sixty participants, randomly allocated into two groups: the dry needling (DNG) and the exercise group (EG). The participants in DNG received a total of six sessions of dry needling treatment, two days a week, to the gluteus medius and quadratus lumborum and multifidus muscles. All participants were given a McKenzie exercise program two sets per day for three weeks.Results: A significant difference was noted in the VAS-night values of the patients within the DNG before treatment (p: 0.004), and the EG also exhibited a significant difference in the VAS-activity (p: 0.017) and VAS-resting (p: 0.024) values following the treatment. A statistically significant decrease was observed in favor of DNG in VAS-rest, VAS-night, VAS-activity values (p>0.001) in the comparions of the groups.Conclusions: Dry needling treatment added to exercise therapy in chronic NLBP patients is effective on activity and rest pain severity in the shortterm results. However, no additive efficacy of dry needling treatment was found on the number of trigger points, disability, and depression.
Assessing the efficacy of sugammadex based on ideal body weight for reversal of moderate neuromuscular blockade in obstetric patients across different BMI categories: A prospective study
Authors: Ozcan Metin , Altiparmak Basak , Gümüş Demirbilek Semra
Published: November 2024

Background: This investigation aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of administering 2 mg/kg intravenous (IV) sugammadex, dosed according to the ideal body weight (IBW) of obstetric patients across three different BMI groups, for the reversal of neuromuscular blockade caused by rocuronium.Materials and Method: A total of ninety female patients, who were categorized as American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) II and were 18 years or older, participated in this study. These patients were all scheduled to undergo elective cesarean sections under general anesthesia, providing a well-defined cohort for our investigation. Participants were separated into three groups according to their BMI: Group 1 (n=30) consisted of patients with a BMI less than 30 kg/m², Group 2 (n=30) included those with a BMI ranging from 30 to 39.9 kg/m², and Group 3 (n=30) comprised patients with a BMI over 40 kg/m². At the end of the surgery, each patient received intravenous sugammadex at 2 mg/kg based on ideal body weight, with additional doses as needed, while recording the total amount administered and the times for extubation, motor responses, and first breastfeeding.Results: The total sugammadex dose was found to be notably higher in Group 3 (p=0.002). The time required to reach a Train of Four (TOF) ratio greater than 90% was similar across the groups (p=0.120). However, the recorded durations between sugammadex administration and extubation, accurate motor response, and the time to first breastfeeding significantly differed between the groups.Conclusions: We found that IV sugammadex 2 mg/kg, administered according to the IBW of patients, was effective for reversing moderate neuromuscular blockade in patients of weight categories. However, administering a sugammadex dose of IBW+25% appears to be safer for class III obese patients.
How does intravenous ondansetron affect motor and sensory block in spinal anesthesia administered with intrathecal levobupivacaine? A prospective randomized controlled study
Authors: Ataman Mustafa Felat , Suslu Husnu , Saidoglu Leyla
Published: November 2024

Background: Spinal anesthesia is commonly performed in surgical procedures, and ondansetron, frequently used as an antiemetic, is often administered to manage postoperative nausea and vomiting. Given their frequent co-administration, we sought to investigate the potential effects of intravenous ondansetron on the block characteristics of spinal anesthesia performed with levobupivacaine.Materials and Method: In this prospective, randomized controlled study, forty patients were divided into two groups: Group L (spinal anesthesia with levobupivacaine) and Group OL (spinal anesthesia with levobupivacaine plus intravenous ondansetron).Results: Our findings showed that while motor block duration was similar between the groups (p>0.05), sensory block duration was significantly shorter in the ondansetron group (p<0.05). There were no significant differences in patient demographics or hemodynamic parameters between the groups (p>0.05).Conclusions: The shortened sensory block with ondansetron administration may be clinically undesirable as it could limit the intended duration of anesthesia. We recommend administering ondansetron at the end of surgery to avoid this effect. Further studies are required to confirm these findings and clarify the mechanisms involved.
Comparison of the effects of femoral and axillary artery cannulation on ischemic cerebral injury in acute type A aortic dissection surgery: A retrospective study
Authors: Yücel Semih Murat , Dost Burhan , Komurcu Ozgur , Özdemir Emine , Genç Caner , Demirag Mustafa Kemal , Karakaya Deniz
Published: November 2024

Background: Acute Type A Aortic Dissection (ATAAD) is a life-threatening condition requiring emergency surgical intervention. This retrospective study evaluates the impact of femoral and axillary arterial cannulation techniques on ischemic neurological damage and mortality.Materials and Method: A total of 60 patients who underwent emergency surgery for ATAAD between 2016 and 2021 were analyzed. Patients were divided into two groups based on the arterial cannulation technique: Group A (axillary cannulation) and Group F (femoral cannulation). Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative variables were compared between the groups. The primary outcome was incidence of ischemic cerebral injury and secondary outcomes included 30-day all-cause mortality, intensive care unit and hospital length of stay and postoperative complications.Results: There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in terms of ischemic cerebral injury (p=0.13). There was no significant difference in 30-day mortality between the groups (p= 0.27). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the cannulation type was a risk factor for ischemic cerebral injury development (OR [95% CI]; 119.034 [1.612–8791.314], p=0.029).Conclusions: Our findings indicate that the type of cannulation may be a risk factor for the development of ischemic cerebral injury. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal arterial cannulation technique for improving outcomes in ATAAD surgery.
Improving the shape and dimensional accuracy of hollow semi-finished products during hot reverse extrusion from square workpieces
Authors: Dragobetskyi Volodymyr , Kaliuzhnyi Oleksandr , Kaliuzhnyi Volodymyr , Sytnyk Stanislav
Published: November 2024

Stamping of round hollow semi-finished products by hot reverse extrusion from round and square workpieces is the first stamping step in the manufacture of hollow products for special purposes. These products require certain mechanical properties along the wall height and in the bottom part, which can be achieved by working out the metal structure by plastic deformation. The bottom part is worked out by reverse extrusion. The wall properties are obtained in the following stages of drawing the semi-finished product with thinning after extrusion. The use of square workpieces results in more intensive working out of the bottom of the semi-finished products during the reverse extrusion. However, as a result of extrusion, four protrusions appear at the end of the semi-finished product wall in places that match the corner areas of the workpiece. The presence of protrusions leads to the need for an additional operation of cutting the end of the semi-finished product before extrusion, as well as to an increase in metal usage. Therefore, an urgent task is to study the method of eliminating protrusions in the semi-finished product and the additional cutting operation.To improve the accuracy of the shape and size of hollow semi-finished products during hot reverse extrusion from square workpieces.Elimination of protrusions is achieved by forming chamfers in the corner zones of the square workpiece by preliminary deposition before extrusion.The finite element method (FEM) was used to model the processes of hot deposition of corner zones on a square workpiece and subsequent reverse extrusion with the dispensing of round hollow semi-finished products. The dimensions of the chamfers on the high-carbon steel workpiece were determined, which ensured the elimination of protrusions at the end of the wall of the round semi-finished product after extrusion. The dependence of the deposition and extrusion forces on the punch movement was determined. The specific forces on the deforming tool were determined. The distributions of stresses, strains, and temperature in the deformed metal at the end of deposition and extrusion are presented. The working out of the metal structure by hot plastic deformation is evaluated. The design of a stamp for deposition and extrusion is developed.The geometry of a square workpiece with chamfers in the corner zones was determined, which ensures the elimination of protrusions at the wall end during hot reverse extrusion with the dispensing of round hollow semi-finished products
Functional reliability of means of fixation for complex pelvic fractures. Part 3. Experimental studies under cyclic loads
Authors: Dyman Marianna , Shydlovskyi Mykola , Laksha Andriy , Fomin Oleksandr
Published: November 2024

Fixation of fragments of human pelvic bones by standard and new means of osteosynthesis, in addition to clinical indicators, should have sufficiently high mechanical characteristics. In particular, the “bone with a fracture - osteosynthesis system” system must be sufficiently strong, rigid and stable during long-term treatment, which may be accompanied by certain physiological loads. Today, in traumatology and orthopedics, two methods of fixation are used to fix complex fractures of the pelvic bones caused by high-velocity wounding projectiles: parallel insertion of spongy screws (osteosynthesis of the posterior pelvic ring) and stabilization with a rod apparatus of external fixation and fixation by means of reinforced with application of extramedullary reconstructive plate (osteosynthesis of the anterior pelvic ring). The anterior pelvis is stabilized more often because this technique is simpler, does not require much time and high qualification of the surgeon. However, this method of fixation does not provide sufficient stability of the connection of the pelvic ring bone fragments. This work is devoted to the study of the processes of occurrence and development of mutual displacements of fracture points of pelvic bones under the action of long-term cyclic loads. Experimental studies were carried out under the action of bending cyclic loads, which are close to physiological ones. Calculated creep deformations and irreversible displacements of fracture points. The stiffness characteristics of pelvic fracture fixation systems were studied.
A Proof of the Riemann Hypothesis Based on a New Expression of the Completed Zeta Function
Authors: Zhang Weicun
Published: November 2024

Based on the Hadamard product $\xi(s)= \xi(0)\prod_{\rho}(1-\frac{s}{\rho})$, a new expression of $\xi(s)$ is obtained by paring $\rho$ and $\bar{\rho}$ $$\xi(s)= \xi(0)\prod_{i=1}^{\infty}(1-\frac{s}{\rho_i})(1-\frac{s}{\bar{\rho}_i})=\xi(0)\prod_{i=1}^{\infty}\Big{(}\frac{\beta_i^2}{\alpha_i^2+\beta_i^2}+\frac{(s-\alpha_i)^2}{\alpha_i^2+\beta_i^2}\Big{)}$$ where $\xi(0)=\frac{1}{2}$, $\rho_i=\alpha_i+j\beta_i$ and $\bar{\rho}_i=\alpha_i-j\beta_i$ are the complex conjugate zeros of $\xi(s)$, $0<\alpha_i<1$ and $\beta_i\neq 0$ are real numbers, $\beta_i$ are in order of increasing $|\beta_i|$, i.e., $|\beta_1|\leq|\beta_2|\leq|\beta_3|\leq \cdots$.\\ Then, by the functional equation $\xi(s)=\xi(1-s)$, we have $$\xi(0)\prod_{i=1}^{\infty}\Big{(}\frac{\beta_i^2}{\alpha_i^2+\beta_i^2}+\frac{(s-\alpha_i)^2}{\alpha_i^2+\beta_i^2}\Big{)} =\xi(0)\prod_{i=1}^{\infty}\Big{(}\frac{\beta_i^2}{\alpha_i^2+\beta_i^2}+\frac{(1-s-\alpha_i)^2}{\alpha_i^2+\beta_i^2}\Big{)}$$ i.e., $$\prod_{i=1}^{\infty}\Big{(}1+\frac{(s-\alpha_i)^2}{\beta_i^2}\Big{)}=\prod_{i=1}^{\infty}\Big{(}1+\frac{(1-s-\alpha_i)^2}{\beta_i^2}\Big{)}$$ which, by Lemma 3, is equivalent to $$\alpha_i= \frac{1}{2}, i =1, 2, 3, \cdots, \infty$$ Thus, we conclude that the Riemann Hypothesis is true.