bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FREQUENCY AND GRADING OF SUPERNUMERARY CUSPS IN PERMANENT HUMAN TEETH OF PATIENTS VISITING THE TEACHING HOSPITALS OF PESHAWAR DENTAL COLLEGE AND KHYBER COLLEGE OF DENTISTRY, PESHAWAR
Authors: Muhammad Younas  , Yusra Jamil Khattak  , Sana Arbab  , Munawar Aziz Khattak  , Imran Khattak  , Momena Rashid
Published: July 2023

Objectives: To document the frequency and grading of supernumerary cusps in permanent teeth in patients visiting Peshawar Dental College and Khyber College of Dentistry Peshawar.Methods and materials: A cross sectional study was carried out in which 753 patients attending the outdoor patients department who fulfi lled the inclusion criteria were examined, out of which 229 (Males: 122, Females: 107) were recruited for participation in the study through consecutive sampling technique. Age group selected for the study was from 13 to 50 years. The patients were examined 4 days a week until the required sample size was accomplished. Permanent maxillary first molars and permanent maxillary incisors (central, lateral) were studied for the presence of cusp of Carabelli and Talon cusp respectively, while mandibular second premolars were examined for central cusp. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and statistical analysis was done using Chi-square test.Results: The overall frequency of supernumerary cusps was calculated to be 30.4% out of which cusp of Carabelli was29.1% and Talon cusp was 1.33%. Gender-wise distribution was significant at p<0.05. In the present study, grade III (overlapped tubercle) showed the highest degree of expression of cusp of Carabelli and type 3 Talon cusp was prevalent in our local population.Conclusion: Amongst the reported frequency of supernumerary cusps, cusp of Carabelli occurrence was higher in our local population with a signifi cant diff erence seen among genders. Central cusp was not seen in any of the subjects. There was higher incidence of cusp of Carabelli in male patients compared to Talon cusp which was more frequently present in females.
FETOMATERNAL OUTCOME IN PATIENTS WITH PRELABOUR RUPTURE OF MEMBRANE IN CIVIL HOSPITAL KARACHI
Authors: Aisha Qayyum  , Asifa Ghazi  , Maria Ghafoor  , Afshan Shahid  , Misbah Aftab  , Summaya  Khalid  , Riffat Hussain
Published: July 2023

Objectives: To compare the fetal and maternal outcomes in interventional (induction of labor) verses expectant management of prelabour rupture of membranes at term.Materials and Methods: This Randomized control trial was conducted from December 2014 to June 2015 in obstetrics and gynecology department civil hospital Karachi.. A total of 284 patients were recruited via non probability consecutive sampling technique. Women were randomized into group A (intervention group) & Group B (expectant group). Randomization was blinded and was done by opening of the closed envelopes. Women in group A induced with tablet prostaglandin E2 placed in posterior vaginal fornix (2 doses 6 hours apart) group B expectant group patient monitored for 24 hours for spontaneous initiation of labour, under strict fetomaternal monitoring. (Fetal heart rate (<160bmp) was monitored one hourly and maternal vital signs (pulse <100bmp) four hourly, If patients in group B did not go into labor till 24 hours, they were induced. Labour management was according to normal labour protocols. The management outcomes were measured and recorded on approved Performa.Results: Average ages was 27.6 ± 6.1 in interventional group and 27.7 + 6.2 years in expectant group with mean duration of labor was 9.4 ± 4.9 and 13.6 ± 5.7 respectively and mean duration of PROM was 3.1 ± 1.9 and 2.9 ± 2.0. When APGAR score were compared, 9(6.3%) had APGAR score < 7 in interventional group and 13(9%) had APGAR score < 7 in expectant group, showed no significant difference but when Chorioamnionitis were compared, 8(5.9%) had positive in interventional group and 28(19.7%) had positive in expectant group and showed significant difference.Conclusion: This trial concluded that the interventional management leads to reduced Chorioamnionitis as compared to expectant management but did not find the differences in the rates of fetal outcome.
The Outcomes of Allogenic Bone Marrow Transplantation for BThalassemia Major Patients: Single-Centre Experience
Authors: AL-Mohammed Salma , Omer Hala , AL-Horani Saif EL-Deen , AL-Hawaj Ghufran Ali , Khairy Ashraf , Aldaama Saad
Published: July 2023

Objectives: The Primary objective of this study is to assess the outcome of Allogenic Bone Marrow Transplantation for B- Thalassemia Major (B-TM) Patients at KFSHD, also to compare our local results with international outcomes, and to identify the complications of this modality of treatment in our cohort. Design: This is a retrospective descriptive study. It includes all patients’ less16 year transfusion-dependent, b-TM patients who underwent matched-related donor (MRD) allogeneic stem cell transplantation at KFSHD, pediatric hematology/ oncology department between January 2013 and December 2020. Total number of cohort is 21 patients. Methods: After obtaining the IRB approval, all the data and information were retrieved from the patients’ hard and electronic medical records and then computerized using a Microsoft Excel sheet. Computerized data exported to (SPSS) program updated version 24 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA) which was used for analysis of the data. Results: The results of the 21 patients with b-TM who underwent MRD allogenic BMT at KFSHD highlighted the role of MRD/BMT as curative therapy of b-TM with no increase in transplantation-related complications when compared with similar results. In our study, SOS rate was found to be 33.3%, GVHD was 23.8% but non-invasive infections were 76.2%, which is high but not influential. The overall survival (OS) was 90.5% and the disease-free survival (DFS) was 95.2%. Conclusion: Because of the perfect, promising figures of survival for stem cell transplantation in b-thalassemia major (b-TM) patients during the last decades and the noticeable improvement in the quality of their life after that, and since our study showed similar good comparable outcome and survival rates with other international centers, we strongly recommend early transplantation for b-TM if a suitable donor is available in an experienced BMT center. The overall survival (OS) was 90.5% and the disease-free survival (DFS) was 95.2%, which are comparable outcomes with other international similar centers.
EAACI 2023 Abstract Highlights
Authors: EMJ
Published: July 2023

The following highlights spotlight selected abstracts presented at the 2023 European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Congress. They cover fascinating and timely topics, including the effect of infantile atopic dermatitis on maternal bonding, patient burden in hereditary angioedema, and the use of specific interleukins to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis.
Associations of fatty acids composition and estimated desaturase activities in erythrocyte phospholipids with biochemical and clinical indicators of cardiometabolic risk in non-diabetic Serbian women: the role of level of adiposity
Authors: Šarac Ivana , Debeljak-Martačić Jasmina , Takić Marija , Stevanović Vuk , Milešević Jelena , Zeković Milica , Popović Tamara , Jovanović Jovica , Vidović Nevena Kardum
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Fatty acids (FAs) composition and desaturase activities can be altered in different metabolic conditions, but the adiposity-independent associations with clinical and biochemical indicators of cardiometabolic risk are still unclear. This study aimed to analyze the associations of FAs composition and estimated desaturase activities with anthropometric, clinical, and biochemical cardiometabolic risk indicators in non-diabetic Serbian women, and to investigate if these associations were independent of the level of adiposity and other confounders.

Methods

In 76 non-diabetic, otherwise healthy Serbian women, aged 24-68 years, with or without metabolic syndrome or obesity (BMI=23.6±5.6 kg/m2), FA composition in erythrocyte phospholipids was measured by gas-liquid chromatography. Desaturase activities were estimated from product/precursor FAs ratios (D9D:16:1n-7/16:0; D6D:20:3n-6/18:2n-6; D5D:20:4n-6/20:3n-6). Correlations were made with anthropometric, biochemical (serum glucose, triacylglycerols, LDL-C, HDL-C, ALT, AST, and their ratios) and clinical (blood pressure) indicators of cardiometabolic risk. Linear regression models were performed to test the independence of these associations.

Results

Estimated desaturase activities and certain FAs were associated with anthropometric, clinical and biochemical indicators of cardiometabolic risk: D9D, D6D, 16:1n-7 and 20:3n-6 were directly associated, while D5D and 18:0 were inversely associated. However, the associations with clinical and biochemical indicators were not independent of the associations with the level of adiposity, since they were lost after controlling for anthropometric indices. After controlling for multiple confounders (age, postmenopausal status, education, smoking, physical activity, dietary macronutrient intakes, use of supplements, alcohol consumption), the level of adiposity was the most significant predictor of desaturase activities and aforementioned FAs levels, and mediated their association with biochemical/clinical indicators.Vice versa, desaturase activities predicted the level of adiposity, but not other components of cardiometabolic risk (if the level of adiposity was accounted). While the associations of anthropometric indices with 16:1n-7, 20:3n-6, 18:0 and D9D and D6D activities were linear, the associations with D5D activity were the inverse U-shaped. The only adiposity-independent association of FAs profiles with the indicators of cardiometabolic risk was a positive association of 20:5n-3 with ALT/AST ratio, which requires further exploration.

Discussion

Additional studies are needed to explore the mechanisms of the observed associations.
The application of a medium-chain fatty diet and enteral nutrition in post-operative chylous leakage: analysis of 63 patients
Authors: Wang Ke , Xiao Jiaming , Li Li , Li Xu , Yang Yilun , Liu Zhiyu , Jiang Jing
Published: July 2023

Background

Post-operative chylous leakage (CL) is the pathologic leakage of chylomicron fluid after surgery. This retrospective study was performed to evaluate a uniform oral nutrition management strategy on the post-operative CL.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients who developed post-operative CL and received consultation from a clinical nutritionist in seven departments of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University from May 2020 to April 2022. We designed the oral nutrition intervention program which mainly standardized the type and amount of foods contained in the medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) diet. The influencing factors of curative efficacy were analyzed. Finally, binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to observe the relationship between curative efficacy and potentially predictive variables, including post-operative albumin, post-operative hemoglobin, surgical procedure, and drainage volume at consultation.

Results

Sixty-three patients with post-operative CL were included in this analysis. Of this number, 58 patients were cured successfully without other treatments. Three patients had a significantly prolonged recovery period, and the remaining two cases were treated by reoperation therapy. The leakage volume at the initiation of enteral intervention had no statistically significant difference in seven surgical departments and surgical sites (left, right, median, and bilateral). The length of stay (LOS) of patients with CL after the intervention was not significantly increased in cardiac, hepatobiliary, gastrointestinal, and urological surgeries. Patients with CL had longer LOS than those without CL in gynecology (P=0.044) and thyroid surgery departments (P=0.008). Each unit increase in post-operative hemoglobin would increase the probability of an effective outcome by 8%, which was statistically significant (P = 0.037).

Conclusion

In treating patients with post-operative CL, we recommend the MCT diet and EN as the first option, rather than fasting, parenteral nutrition (PN), or octreotide.
Prevalence of diabetes foot ulcers and associated factors among adult diabetic patients in three referral hospitals in Mogadishu, Somalia
Authors: Salad Abdulwahab M. , Duale Hodan A. , Sheikh Ismael M. , Hassan Gallad Dahir , Farah Abdiqani A. , Gele Abdi
Published: July 2023

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) causes significant morbidity and mortality in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), including Somalia. Among diabetic patients, diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) constitute the largest proportion of admissions, amputations, and mortality. The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of diabetic foot ulcers and subsequently determine factors associated with it among diabetic patients at three major hospitals in Somalia.

Methods

An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 193 diabetic patients between August and November 2022. All eligible diabetes patients who were attending De Martini Hospital, Madina General Hospital, and Deynile General Hospital during the study period were included in the study. Patients were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. We collected demographic, clinical, and behavioral variables from all participants. A bivariate and multivariable logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with diabetic foot ulcer. An odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval was computed to determine the level of significance.

Result

The mean age of the study’s participants was 50.9 ± 13.6 years. The prevalence of diabetic foot ulcer was 15%. Patients who were either overweight or obese (OR 4.63, CI: 2.08–10.30), had a lack of family support in managing diabetes (OR 3.33, CI: 1.74–6.36), and did not check their feet regularly were more likely to develop DFU (OR 1.99, CI:1.08–3.66).

Conclusion

Increased body mass index, lack of family support, and not checking feet regularly were associated with DFUs. The high prevalence of DFUs and the plethora of needs of people with DFUs pose challenges for health care. A coordinated health care system is necessary to meet the needs of diabetic patients and prevent DFUs.
A Review of the Carbon-Based Solid Transducing Layer for Ion-Selective Electrodes
Authors: Wang Peike , Liu Haipeng , Zhou Shiqiang , Chen Lina , Yu Suzhu , Wei Jun
Published: July 2023

As one of the key components of solid-contact ion-selective electrodes (SC-ISEs), the SC layer plays a crucial role in electrode performance. Carbon materials, known for their efficient ion–electron signal conversion, chemical stability, and low cost, are considered ideal materials for solid-state transducing layers. In this review, the application of different types of carbon materials in SC-ISEs (from 2007 to 2023) has been comprehensively summarized and discussed. Representative carbon-based materials for the fabrication of SC-ISEs have been systematically outlined, and the influence of the structural characteristics of carbon materials on achieving excellent performance has been emphasized. Finally, the persistent challenges and potential opportunities are also highlighted and discussed, aiming to inspire the design and fabrication of next-generation SC-ISEs with multifunctional composite carbon materials in the future.
Advanced Stimuli-Responsive Structure Based on 4D Aerogel and Covalent Organic Frameworks Composite for Rapid Reduction in Tetracycline Pollution
Authors: Wang Wenxin , Wang Wenjing , Liang Ying , Du Liwen , Yang Huan , Ma Haoxiang , Cheng Huiting , Yan Yaqian , Shen Yijun , Chen Qi
Published: July 2023

Intelligentization of materials and structures is an important trend. Herein, the stimuli-responsive 4D aerogel is used as a smart substrate for rapid reduction in tetracycline (TC) pollution, in which this smart stimuli-responsive substrate is designated as P4D. Its fourth dimension originates from stimuli-responsive characteristics with time evolution. Meanwhile, the covalent organic frameworks (COFs) composite is constructed by BiPO4 and triazine-based sp2 carbon-conjugated g-C18N3-COF (COF-1), which is another key aspect of COF-1/BiPO4@P4D for rapid photocatalytic degradation regarding TC pollution. This emerging smart structure of COFs@P4D can fix programmable temporary state and recover permanent state under thermal or water stimulus without any complicated equipment. Its performance can be tailored by structure, composition, and function. Compared with traditional powder-form photocatalysts, this stimuli-responsive structure provides attractive advantages, such as high permeable framework, self-adaptivity, flexibly customized functional groups, and fast reduction in TC pollution. The predictable development of COFs@P4D could draw much attention for various promising applications in pollution treatment and sensors.
An Untargeted Metabolomics Approach to Study the Variation between Wild and Cultivated Soybeans
Authors: Tareq Fakir Shahidullah , Kotha Raghavendhar R. , Natarajan Savithiry , Sun Jianghao , Luthria Devanand L.
Published: July 2023

The differential metabolite profiles of four wild and ten cultivated soybeans genotypes were explored using an untargeted metabolomics approach. Ground soybean seed samples were extracted with methanol and water, and metabolic features were obtained using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS) in both positive and negative ion modes. The UHPLC-HRMS analysis of the two different extracts resulted in the putative identification of 98 metabolites belonging to several classes of phytochemicals, including isoflavones, organic acids, lipids, sugars, amino acids, saponins, and other compounds. The metabolic profile was significantly impacted by the polarity of the extraction solvent. Multivariate analysis showed a clear difference between wild and cultivated soybean cultivars. Unsupervised and supervised learning algorithms were applied to mine the generated data and to pinpoint metabolites differentiating wild and cultivated soybeans. The key identified metabolites differentiating wild and cultivated soybeans were isoflavonoids, free amino acids, and fatty acids. Catechin analogs, cynaroside, hydroxylated unsaturated fatty acid derivatives, amino acid, and uridine diphosphate-N-acetylglucosamine were upregulated in the methanol extract of wild soybeans. In contrast, isoflavonoids and other minor compounds were downregulated in the same soybean extract. This metabolic information will benefit breeders and biotechnology professionals to develop value-added soybeans with improved quality traits.
The Influence of Oxidation and Nitrogenation on the Physicochemical Properties and Sorption Capacity of Activated Biocarbons Prepared from the Elderberry Inflorescence
Authors: Dąbrowska Wiktoria , Gargol Mateusz , Gil-Kowalczyk Małgorzata , Nowicki Piotr
Published: July 2023

The main objective of the study was to prepare a series of new activated biocarbons by means of physical and chemical activation of elderberry inflorescence. The influence of carbon matrix nitrogenation/oxidation on the physicochemical properties and sorption abilities of the carbonaceous materials was investigated. The impact of initial dye concentration, pH and temperature of the system on methylene blue and rhodamine B removal efficiency was checked. It was shown that activation of elderberry inflorescences with CO2 or H3PO4, and their further modification by introducing nitrogen or oxygen functional groups, allowed us obtain a wide range of materials that differ significantly in terms of the chemical nature of the surface, degree of specific surface development and the type of porous structure generated. The samples prepared by chemical activation proved to be very effective in terms of cationic dyes adsorption. The maximum sorption capacity toward methylene blue and rhodamine B reached the level of 277.8 and 98.1 mg/g, respectively. A better fit to the experimental data was achieved with a Langmuir isotherm than a Freundlich one. It was also shown that the efficiency of methylene blue and rhodamine B adsorption from aqueous solutions decreased with increasing temperature of the system.
Hydrolytic Mechanism of a Metalloenzyme Is Modified by the Nature of the Coordinated Metal Ion
Authors: Nafaee Zeyad H. , Hajdu Bálint , Hunyadi-Gulyás Éva , Gyurcsik Béla
Published: July 2023

The nuclease domain of colicin E7 cleaves double-strand DNA non-specifically. Zn2+ ion was shown to be coordinated by the purified NColE7 as its native metal ion. Here, we study the structural and catalytic aspects of the interaction with Ni2+, Cu2+ and Cd2+ non-endogenous metal ions and the consequences of their competition with Zn2+ ions, using circular dichroism spectroscopy and intact protein mass spectrometry. An R447G mutant exerting decreased activity allowed for the detection of nuclease action against pUC119 plasmid DNA via agarose gel electrophoresis in the presence of comparable metal ion concentrations. It was shown that all of the added metal ions could bind to the apoprotein, resulting in a minor secondary structure change, but drastically shifting the charge distribution of the protein. Zn2+ ions could not be replaced by Ni2+, Cu2+ and Cd2+. The nuclease activity of the Ni2+-bound enzyme was extremely high in comparison with the other metal-bound forms, and could not be inhibited by the excess of Ni2+ ions. At the same time, this activity was significantly decreased in the presence of equivalent Zn2+, independent of the order of addition of each component of the mixture. We concluded that the Ni2+ ions promoted the DNA cleavage of the enzyme through a more efficient mechanism than the native Zn2+ ions, as they directly generate the nucleophilic OH− ion.
A Multiple Stimuli–Responsive Ag/P/S Complex Showing Solvochromic and Mechanochromic Photoluminescence
Authors: Yan Jia-Jun , Wu Yu , Zhai Weijia , Yang Ningwen , Li Hong-Xi , Yang Wei , Lu Chengrong , Young David James , Ren Zhi-Gang
Published: July 2023

The reaction of CF3COOAg, 3-bdppmapy (N,N-bis(diphenylphosphanylmethyl)-3-aminopyridine) and HTZ (1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol) in CH2Cl2/MeOH resulted in a dinuclear Ag/P/S complex [Ag2(TZ)2(3-bdppmapy)2]·xSol (1·xSol). Crystals of 1·xSol converted to 1·2MeOH in air at room temperature and further to 1 under vacuum upon heating. The solid-state, room-temperature photoluminescent emission of 1·xSol (510 nm) shifted to 494 nm (1·2MeOH) and 486 nm (1). Grinding solids of 1·2MeOH in air resulted in amorphous 1G characterized by solid-state emission at 468 nm, which converted to 1GR with 513 nm emission upon MeOH treatment. Grinding 1GR in air returned 1G, and this interconversion was reproducible over five cycles. The solid-state photoluminescence of 1G changed in response to vapors containing low–molecular weight alcohols but remained unchanged after exposure to other volatile organic compounds (VOCs) or to water vapor. Test papers impregnated with 1G could detect methanol in vapors from aqueous solutions at concentrations above 50%. Complex 1G is, therefore, an example of a stimuli-responsive molecular sensor for the detection of alcohols.
Structure, Stability, and Superconductivity of Two-Dimensional Janus NbSH Monolayers: A First-Principle Investigation
Authors: Li Yan , Pu Chunying , Zhou Dawei
Published: July 2023

Two-dimensional Janus materials have unique structural characteristics due to their lack of out-of-plane mirror symmetry, resulting in many excellent physical and chemical properties. Using first-principle calculations, we performed a detailed investigation of the possible stable structures and properties of two-dimensional Janus NbSH. We found that both Janus 1T and 2H structures are semiconductors, unlike their metallic counterparts MoSH. Furthermore, we predicted a new stable NbSH monolayer using a particle swarm optimization method combined with first-principle calculations. Interestingly, the out-of-plane mirror symmetry is preserved in this newly found 2D structure. Furthermore, the newly found NbSH is metallic and exhibits intrinsic superconducting behavior. The superconducting critical temperature is about 6.1 K under normal conditions, which is found to be very sensitive to stress. Even under a small compressive strain of 1.08%, the superconducting critical temperature increases to 9.3 K. In addition, the superconductivity was found to mainly originate from Nb atomic vibrations. Our results show the diversity of structures and properties of the two-dimensional Janus transition metal sulfhydrate materials and provide some guidelines for further investigations.
Fluorinated Polyimide/Allomelanin Nanocomposites for UV-Shielding Applications
Authors: Li Qing , Guo Yujuan , Wu Meijia , Deng Fei , Feng Jieying , Liu Jiafeng , Liu Sheng , Ouyang Chaoliu , Duan Wengui , Yi Shunmin , Liao Guangfu
Published: July 2023

A series of highly fluorinated polyimide/allomelanin nanoparticles (FPI/AMNPs) films were prepared with FPI as the matrix and AMNPs as the filler. Due to the formation of hydrogen bonds, significantly reinforced mechanical and UV-shielding properties are acquired. Stress–strain curves demonstrated a maximum tensile strength of 150.59 MPa and a fracture elongation of 1.40% (0.7 wt.% AMNPs), respectively, 1.78 and 1.56× that of pure FPI. The measurements of the UV-vis spectrum, photodegradation of curcumin and repeated running tests confirmed the splendid UV-shielding capabilities of FPI/AMNPs films. The enhancement mechanisms, such as synergistic UV absorption of the charge transfer complexes in FPI and AMNPs and photothermal conversion, were the reasons for its exceptional UV shielding. The excellent comprehensive properties above enable FPI/AMNPs nanocomposites to be potential candidates in the field of UV shielding.
Protein-Templated Metal Nanoclusters: Molecular-like Hybrids for Biosensing, Diagnostics and Pharmaceutics
Authors: Tan Sherwin Chong Li , He Zhijian , Wang Guan , Yu Yong , Yang Le
Published: July 2023

The use of proteins as biomolecular templates to synthesize atomically precise metal nanoclusters has been gaining traction due to their appealing properties such as photoluminescence, good colloidal- and photostability and biocompatibility. The synergistic effect of using a protein scaffold and metal nanoclusters makes it especially attractive for biomedical applications. Unlike other reviews, we focus on proteins in general as the protective ligand for various metal nanoclusters and highlight their applications in the biomedical field. We first introduce the approaches and underlined principles in synthesizing protein-templated metal nanoclusters and summarize some of the typical proteins that have been used thus far. Afterwards, we highlight the key physicochemical properties and the characterization techniques commonly used for the size, structure and optical properties of protein-templated metal nanoclusters. We feature two case studies to illustrate the importance of combining these characterization techniques to elucidate the formation process of protein-templated metal nanoclusters. Lastly, we highlight the promising applications of protein-templated metal nanoclusters in three areas—biosensing, diagnostics and therapeutics.
Using R-project for Free Statistical Analysis in Extension Research
Authors: Mangiafico Salvatore
Published: July 2023

One option for Extension professionals wishing to use free statistical software is to use online calculators, which are useful for common, simple analyses. A second option is to use a free computing environment capable of performing statistical analyses, like R-project. R-project is free, cross-platform, powerful, and respected, but may be difficult for beginners to learn. Using a graphical user interface allows new users to perform common analyses using pull-down menus and dialog boxes without programming knowledge. An example of an R-project program, performing a linear regression and producing relevant plots and statistics, is included.
Maine 4-H Afterschool Academy—A Professional Development Opportunity for Out-of-School-Time Providers
Authors: Lobley Jennifer , Oullette Kristy
Published: July 2023

The Maine 4-H Afterschool Academy trained 369 after-school and out of school time providers in 2011. This easy-to-adapt professional development opportunity used blended learning, a combination of in-person and Web-based opportunities. Providers successfully learned concepts and practical knowledge regarding 4-H, specifically 4-H Science. In post-training evaluations, 86% of participants reported feeling more confident in incorporating science, engineering, and technology in their afterschool program. This blended learning approach eliminated some barriers Extension faculty face when designing programing for afterschool providers.
ATOPIC DERMATITIS. FEATURES OF PATHOGENESIS, CLINICAL IMAGE AND DIAGNOSIS
Authors:   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, Березина А. С. , Карачева Ю. В. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, Винник Ю. Ю. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia, Тактаракова С. С. ,   Prof. V. F. Voino-Yasenetsky Krasnoyarsk State Medical University, Krasnoyarsk, Russia
Published: July 2023

The study aims to analyze the scientific literature from eLIBRARY.RU, PubMed, and Wiley on dermatitis progression, pathogenesis, clinical image, and diagnosis techniques. Furthermore, the study focuses on the severity of the disease course affected by genetic processes of progression, skin microbiological content, immunological alterations, skin barrier integrity, and the neurological system. Patient management for those diagnosed with atopic dermatitis is associated with the type of skin lesions and disease progress and performed with advanced high-precision neural network technologies aimed at disease diagnosis and prediction.
Medical Ethics Education at Harvard Medical School
Authors: KIM Ock-Joo , KOO Young-Mo , HWANG Sang-lk
Published: July 2023

At Harvard Medical School, various kinds of medical ethics education are offered to medical students to enhance their ethical sensitivity and sensibility. This paper reports one of the medical ethics courses, Moral Aspects of Dilemmas in Medical Practice. This course shares the same perspectives and contexts as those of medical education reformation beginning in the mid-1980s at Harvard. Using small group discussions, seminars, tutorials, the medical ethics course adopts student-centered, problem-based education. The course aims at helping students to recognize moral dimension of medical practice, to develop systematic moral reasoning, and to learn how to respect patients and colleagues. While professors and guest-lecturers stimulate and guide the classroom discussion, the students take an active role in the discussion. Various methods are employed for the class including case studies, narratives of patients and medical professionals, role plays, video watching, and lectures (although minimized). This course also conveys different methodology and theories of medical ethics such as casuistry, literature and ethics, principlism, virtue ethics, communitarian ethics, and ethics of care. Personal interviews with medical students who finished the course revealed that in general the students were satisfied with the contents and methods of the course. The students said that they learned ethical issues in contemporary medicine and how to deal with ethical dilemmas. Some students wanted to learn more about medical ethics and to participate in ethics committee in the future.
Factors Influencing Advanced Directives Among Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: SON Eunseong , SEO Minjeong
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study was to identify the factors that influence Hemodialysis patients’ intentions to write Advanced Directives (ADs). A questionnaire was used to collect data from 165 chronic renal failure patients receiving hemodialysis treatment at two general hospitals in South Korea. The variables that were found to have a significant influence on the intention to write an AD were education level, knowledge of Ads, and attitudes toward ADs. Patients with a university degree or high school education were significantly more likely (3.35 times and 3.62 times, respectively) to write an AD than were those without a high school education. In terms of knowledge of ADs, as the score increased by 1 point out of 21, the intention to write an AD increased by 1.12 times. Regarding attitudes toward ADs, as the score increased by 1 point, the intention to write an AD increased by 1.13 times. Patients that would choose to continue dialysis treatment during the end-of-life period were less willing to write an AD than those who would stop the dialysis treatment. However, 18.5% of those willing to write an AD indicated that they would continue hemodialysis treatment during the end-of-life period. The results of this study suggest that discussions between patients, family members, and healthcare providers are required from the beginning of dialysis treatment so that these patients have the right knowledge and attitudes about ADs and can confirm their values and beliefs about end-of-life care.
Los avatares de la universidad pública: aproximaciones iniciales para su resignificación
Authors:   Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Enríquez Pérez Isaac
Published: July 2023

En las sociedades periféricas las múltiples crisis de la universidad pública se relacionan abiertamente con el agotamiento del Estado desarrollista y de los grandes proyectos nacionales, hasta conducir a esta organización de educación superior a una devaluación de su trascendencia histórica que le obliga a promover en su interior procesos de resignificación académica e institucional. Ello amerita colocar en el centro del debate su pertinencia social y las diversas aristas de esta crisis multidimensional para comprender su papel en medio del colapso civilizatorio contemporáneo.
Álvaro García Linera: el vendedor de humo
Authors:   Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Bravo Sara
Published: July 2023

Este pequeño ensayo reflexiona de manera superficial acerca de la trayectoria intelectual de Álvaro García Linera, exdirigente guerrillero, exvicepresidente, cerebro de uno de los primeros gobiernos indios y producto de potentes movimientos populares indígenas. La reflexión atraviesa por dos venas de análisis: el programa político que implica el poder de Estado desde una posición de izquierda, y el origen de su vertiente indígena y comunitaria. Se concluye que García Linera ha traicionado a la izquierda y al indianismo.
Ucrania: una guerra del capital
Authors:   Instituto de Investigaciones Doctor José María Luis Mora, Crossa Niell Mateo
Published: July 2023

La guerra en Ucrania se ubica en el centro de las tensiones globales como punto de arranque de una guerra prolongada entre grandes intereses capitalistas y sus Estados. Este escenario ya se venía ensayando en las últimas décadas, sobre todo después de las crisis de 2008, pero se ha tornado más descarnado con el giro belicista adoptado por la otan. En Ucrania se inaugura una nueva era del capitalismo marcada por una desenfrenada guerra de conquista por el reparto del mundo, que ya venía desplegándose, pero ahora se exacerba. Estados Unidos y la Unión Europea siguen enviando armas para engrandecer el polvorín, bloquean la economía rusa para generar una inflación que desploma el poder adquisitivo de la población trabajadora a escala mundial, mientras que Rusia extiende su ocupación absolutamente desmedida por todo el territorio ucraniano. Esta espiral de guerra no tendrá un final próximo, si su devenir queda a expensas de la insaciable avaricia del capital y sus corporaciones.
NEW ZAKAT DISTRIBUTION MODEL USING SUPERVISED MACHINE LEARNING MODEL: A CASE STUDY IN UITM CAWANGAN PERLIS
Authors: Abdul Aziz Azlan , Mohamad Nor Nor Azriani , Wan Shahidan Wan Nurshazelin , Muhamad Siti Nor Nadrah , Muhammat Pazil Nur Syuhada
Published: July 2023

The new coronavirus (COVID-19) spread in early 2020 and affected health, economy, industry and education worldwide. To mitigate the effects of COVID-19, the Malaysian government imposed the Movement Control Order (MCO). Borders were closed, commercial activity ceased, and all academic institutions were closed. Students need to undergo online home learning, which causes difficulties, especially students from B40 groups. Concerned with the problems faced by UiTM Cawangan Perlis students, especially those from low-income families, the Unit Zakat, Sedekah & Wakaf (ZAWAF) has offered financial assistance in the form of zakat. However, the zakat distribution process is time-consuming. Therefore, this study aims to build a new zakat distribution model based on a Supervised Machine Learning model. The results show that parents’ income and household size significantly contributed to the success of students receiving zakat assistance. The results of this study suggest that developing a creative approach could help to streamline routine processes. Hence, the department of zakat can resolve the administrative and financial inefficiencies that have rendered zakat institutions ineffective.
Data Centre Efficiency Enhancement by Metrics Oriented Approach to Revamp Green Cloud Computing Concept
Authors:   Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Shri Ramswaroop Memorial University, India., Vatsal Saumitra , Verma Dr. Satya Bhushan ,   Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Shri Ramswaroop Memorial University, India.
Published: July 2023

Cloud computing inherits sharing of data from pool of resources existing in data centres when ever demanded. The imminent requirement for this purpose is proficiency of the data centre for fulfilment of this coveted objective. The pursuit of energy-efficient peak performance level is challenged by a simultaneous hike of energy consumption. The energy-efficient metrics contribute a major role for attainment of desired objective of safeguarding the environment. These metrics address the enhancement of the system’s proficiency. An increased energy-efficiency results into reduced consumption of energy resources since these energy resources are mostly non-renewable in nature and are the main source of carbon and heat emissions from operational data centres. As a matter of fact, any individual metric is not capable of achieving enhanced energy-efficient performance in a data centre. Therefore a collective utilization of selected metrics pertaining to power, performance and network traffic can improve the energy-efficient capability of data centre communication systems. The testing platform for such metrics is based on certain architectures which include D Cell, B Cube, Hyper Cube and Fat tree three-tier architectures.
Security and Privacy Determinants in Biometric Application in Cyber Security in Banks in Eldoret Town, Kenya
Authors:   Student (M.Sc Information Systems) Department of Computing Sciences, School of Information Science and Technology, Kisii University Kenya., Thomas Misoi K. , Ogalo Dr. James ,   Lecturer, Department of Computing Sciences, School of Information Science and Technology, Kisii University, Kenya., Maake Dr. Ben ,   Lecturer, Department of Computing Sciences, School of Information Science and Technology, Kisii University, Kenya.
Published: July 2023

Biometric technology has been seen as a driving force for the future direction of strong authentication. Although Biometric has been deemed by many scholars as secure method of identification and verification, few banks in Kenya have implemented the use of biometric features such as fingerprints for customer and systems user identification. There are some that put in place the system but failed to fully utilize the system.What could be the key determinants to successful implementation or adoption of the biometric systems for identification and verification. What are the elements that makes it possible for a banking institution to effectively adopt and use the biometric systems for identification and verification. The study sought to determine the effect of security and privacy in biometric application for authorization and identification in cyber security in banks in Eldoret Town. The study was guided by the contingency theory, diffusion innovation theory, and unified theory of acceptance and use of technology. A descriptive survey design was used. The study comprised of 548 employees from 30 commercial banks in Eldoret Town. The study concludes that security and privacy influence biometric application in authorization and identification in cyber security in banks in Kenya. The study recommended that banks should provide convenient and more secured banking services to customers. Additionally, the study recommended a model for evaluation of biometric system before its implementation. The model will be used to ensure successful implementation and application of the system. The determinants are: security and privacy. Biometric technology in banks needs to integrate with the existing traditional security system which will help the banks the level of authorization and identification cyber security.
3D Modelling and Simulation Methods in RCC Building using Bim Software
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, N.K. Orchid College of Engineering and Technology, Solapur (Maharashtra), India., Maske Prof. Ravi G. , Kankuntla Prof. Ashok Y. ,   Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering. N.K. Orchid College of Engineering and Technology, Solapur (Maharashtra), India., Kulkarni Prof. Shrikant R. ,   Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering. N.K. Orchid College of Engineering and Technology, Solapur (Maharashtra), India., Tamboli Sajid D. ,   Student, Department of Civil Engineering. N.K. Orchid College of Engineering and Technology, Solapur (Maharashtra), India., Rapelli Venu M. ,   Student, Department of Civil Engineering. N.K. Orchid College of Engineering and Technology, Solapur (Maharashtra), India., Jahagirdar Unsa Z. ,   Student, Department of Civil Engineering. N.K. Orchid College of Engineering and Technology, Solapur (Maharashtra), India.
Published: July 2023

The building can be designed by using Autodesk Revit Software. Autodesk Revit is Building Information Modelling (BIM) software for, landscape architects, structural engineers, MEP engineers and contractors. The software allows users to design a building and its components in 3D annotate the model with 2D drafting elements and access building information from the building model’s database. Our structure are G+14 Residential building and LIC Ludhiana projects. G+14 is the residential project in which there are 10 blocks with 2 basement, shops on ground and 1st floor, and typical floors from 3rd to 13th floor level which also consist of two refuges floor, the project has different AutoCAD plan of architectural and structural layout having sizes of Beam, column, slabs designed according to IS456:2000 and IS800:2007 LSM. In LIC Ludhiana project the work consist of Rebaring of slabs which includes the top and bottom rebar’s of slab having different diameter or sizes of rebar’s like 8mm, 10mm, 12mm etc. The schedule can be easily extract from this Revit models which will calculate the quantity of material required for the construction purposes. The extensions or plugins like Diroots, Dynamo run in Revit reduces the time of project and give more accuracy to provide id’s to the elements.
Setting The Stage for Innovation: Leveraging Technology for Recruitment and Talent Acquisition in Financial Sector
Authors:   Department of Institute of Professional Studies, University of Allahabad, Prayagraj (U.P), India., Srivastava Dr. Shivi
Published: July 2023

For the financial industry to survive, both talent acquisition and retention are essential. The fact that more people concur that financial sectors should use the newest technologies to hire talent is evidence of this realization. Managing talent after recruiting has an impact on the role in talent management in addition to talent acquisition. The study was conducted in Prayagraj district, Uttar Pradesh. Financial firms of Prayagraj district were undertaken for the study. Public banks: Bank of Baroda, State Bank of India and United Bank of India were undertaken for the study. Most respondents from both groups stated that financial sectors use cutting-edge technologies in financial industry administration and recruitment. The study's findings showed that senior officials and human resource experts had the same opinions on the potential for innovation in hiring and managing talent in the financial sectors.
Modeling the Gender Gap in Career Satisfaction Among Insurance Advisor’s of Life Insurance Corporation India
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Department of Commerce, Government Arts College (Affiliated to Bharathidasan University), Tiruchy (Tamil Nadu), India., Narsis Dr. I
Published: July 2023

The global economy saw a sharp decrease as a result of the COVID-19 coronavirus's proliferation. Numerous businesses, particularly those that deliver in-person services, had to temporarily close due to the exceptional measures taken to contain the outbreak, such as lockdowns. The feeling and impression of one's own professional achievement in proportion to one's personal self-set criteria is known as career satisfaction. A career in the Indian Insurance sector can not only be quite challenging but also rewarding. The Covid-19 heavily affected the regular income of both salaried and non-salaried class people. In this circumstance, the insurance agents faced certain difficulties such as, collecting premium from policy holders, getting new policy and settling the policy claim on time. Overall, the aforementioned challenges undoubtedly had an impact on the insurance advisor's ability to accomplish his or her career goals, including those for income, progress, and the acquisition of new skills. In context with the above topic, this short-term research paper attempts to reveal the career satisfaction between Male and Female Insurance agents of LIC during this pandemic period. There's no significant difference among male and female insurance advisors with regard to of their professional accomplishments, professional goals, and advancement in their careers, according to the findings. Nevertheless, female insurance advisers are happier than male insurance advisors with the strides they have made in achieving their financial and skill-development objectives.
High Performance, Low Power Wallace Tree Multiplier
Authors:   Professor, Department of Electronics and Communications Engineering, Vignana Bharathi Institute of Technology, Hyderabad (Telangana), India., Vallem Dr. Sharmila , Tejaswi G. ,   Students, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Vignana Bharathi Institute of Technology, Hyderabad. (Telangana), India., Sidharth Hrithik ,   Students, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Vignana Bharathi Institute of Technology, Hyderabad. (Telangana), India., Reddy Shilpa ,   Students, Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Vignana Bharathi Institute of Technology, Hyderabad. (Telangana), India.
Published: July 2023

An area-efficient high Wallace tree multiplier using adders is presented in this paper. The proposed Wallace tree multiplier is designed using logic gates and adders. The design is implemented in Cadence Virtuoso using a 45-nm technology library. The proposed design offers reduced delay and higher performance than conventional multipliers using carry-save adders with majority-based gate adder logic. The design also offers a reduced transistor count of 12, which is minimal compared to that of the conventional design. One of the fundamental building blocks of many VLSI applications is multipliers. To enhance the performance of circuits and systems, the design of multipliers is very important. The key feature of a high-performance Wallace tree multiplier lies in its efficient reduction of partial product additions. By utilising a combination of carry-save and carry-propagate adders, it minimises the critical path delay and maximises the speed of multiplication. Additionally, advanced optimisation techniques such as parallel prefix adders and parallel carry-save adders can be employed to further improve performance.