bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Automatic Recognition Reading Method of Pointer Meter Based on YOLOv5-MR Model
Authors: Zou Le , Wang Kai , Wang Xiaofeng , Zhang Jie , Li Rui , Wu Zhize
Published: July 2023

Meter reading is an important part of intelligent inspection, and the current meter reading method based on target detection has problems of low accuracy and large error. In order to improve the accuracy of automatic meter reading, this paper proposes an automatic reading method for pointer-type meters based on the YOLOv5-Meter Reading (YOLOv5-MR) model. Firstly, in order to improve the detection performance of small targets in YOLOv5 framework, a multi-scale target detection layer is added to the YOLOv5 framework, and a set of Anchors is designed based on the lightning rod dial data set; secondly, the loss function and up-sampling method are improved to enhance the model training convergence speed and obtain the optimal up-sampling parameters; Finally, a new external circle fitting method of the dial is proposed, and the dial reading is calculated by the center angle algorithm. The experimental results on the self-built dataset show that the Mean Average Precision (mAP) of the YOLOv5-MR target detection model reaches 79%, which is 3% better than the YOLOv5 model, and outperforms other advanced pointer-type meter reading models.
Separation Science and Technology for Environmental Applications
Authors: Giokas Dimosthenis L.
Published: July 2023

One of the driving forces behind the significant advancements in environmental separation science is the need for creative solutions to the evolving environmental challenges. [...]
Achalasia Post-Bariatric Surgery, Placement Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass: Case Report
Authors: Landeros-Ruiz Juan Pablo , Zúñiga-Ramos Lourdes Marlene , Cárdenas-Guerrero Daniela , Torres-Salazar Quitzia Libertad
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Achalasia is a pathology with an incidence of 1 in 100,000 inhabitants per year. There are very limited data on achalasia in the obese population, especially in those undergoing bariatric surgery. The approach of choice for cases of achalasia is the procedure partial fundoplication to correct the reflux; however, lacking a fundus due to a previous gastrectomy, an alternative that offers optimal results should be chosen. Here, we present the surgical approach in a case of esophageal achalasia and a history of vertical sleeve gastrectomy, where we performed a simultaneous Heller’s cardiomyotomy and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, as well as the results obtained. Case Presentation: A 44-year-old woman with no chronic degenerative diseases, who had a vertical sleeve gastrectomy carried out 5 years ago. Her first symptoms manifested 17 months before, and they were dysphagia to liquids and then to solids, in addition to weight loss of 10 kg in 4 months. Her body mass index before the vertical sleeve gastrectomy was 32 kg/m2; her body mass index at the time of admission was 20 kg/m2; she also presented regurgitation and generalized weakness. After analyzing the surgical options, it was decided to perform a Heller cardiomyotomy and a Roux-en-Y gastric bypass. Discussion and Conclusions: The procedure turned out to be safe and successful in treating achalasia symptomatology, in addition to completely resolving the reflux symptoms.
Pioneering Perception of Green Fintech in Promoting Sustainable Digital Services Application within Smart Cities
Authors: Aboalsamh Hoda M. , Khrais Laith T. , Albahussain Sami A.
Published: July 2023

The emergence of fintech has revolutionized the traditional financial landscape, offering fast and efficient services to consumers while reducing costs for financial institutions. With the continuous advancements in technology, the fintech industry is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years, providing greater access to financial services and increasing financial inclusion across the globe. The main question explored in this study was: What is the impact of green Fintech on sustainability and consumer behavior within smart cities? The objectives of this study included analyzing the perceptions of consumers in the Middle East concerning green fintech’s impact on sustainability and examining green fintech policies and initiatives to identify how they shape consumer behavior. The current study employed qualitative methods, where eight participants were sampled and interviewed regarding the topic and six primary articles were sampled and analyzed. The interviews were conducted online, recorded, and later transcribed for analysis. The results show that green fintech promotes sustainability by encouraging companies to invest in renewable energy as a strategy for accessing more funds at lower interest rates. Moreover, green fintech was realized to enhance financial inclusion as small businesses and startups could easily access funding for innovating technologies that promote sustainability. However, a major challenge hindering the extensive adoption of green fintech identified was the limitation imposed by current regulatory framework. A conclusion from this study is that increasing consumer awareness of green fintech products and their benefits can help increase the rate of implementation of sustainable practices in organizations.
Leveraging 4D Golf Apparel Wear Simulation in Online Shopping: A Promising Approach to Minimizing the Carbon Footprint
Authors: Kong Doyeon , Seock Yoo-Kyoung , Marschner Steve , Park Heeju Terry
Published: July 2023

As fashion e-commerce grows, the online return rates are running higher than ever before. Online customers buy the same product in multiple sizes or colors with the intention of returning what is not necessary as they are unable to have a tactile experience during their purchase. In terms of sustainability, returns have a huge negative impact on the environment, causing waste sent to landfills and carbon emissions. In the United States alone, over 15 million metric tons of carbon dioxide are annually emitted from transporting returned inventory. This study explored an innovative way to help reduce online returns due to fit and sizing issues using four-dimensional (4D) golf apparel wear simulation. The study observed how online customers reacted to an apparel wear simulation where they could see the body–clothing interactions, such as dynamic changes in the drape of a garment and cloth deformations caused by different body movements, with a focus on golf apparel. Female customers (n = 13) with experience playing golf and purchasing golf apparel online participated in randomized experiments where three different e-commerce demo websites embedded with simulations were shown. In-depth interviews were followed to collect qualitative data, and surveying was used to quantitatively assess the perceived usefulness of 4D golf apparel wear simulations. The findings of the study indicated that the wear simulation has the potential to help customers find the correct fit and size when shopping online. By exploring the idea of providing a more accurate representation of how apparel fits and interacts with the body, this study sheds light on the promising approach of leveraging 4D golf apparel wear simulations in online shopping to enhance sustainable fashion and potentially contribute to reducing the carbon footprint by minimizing returns.
Effective Air Quality Prediction Using Reinforced Swarm Optimization and Bi-Directional Gated Recurrent Unit
Authors: Gurumoorthy Sasikumar , Kokku Aruna Kumari , Falkowski-Gilski Przemysław , Divakarachari Parameshachari Bidare
Published: July 2023

In the present scenario, air quality prediction (AQP) is a complex task due to high variability, volatility, and dynamic nature in space and time of particulates and pollutants. Recently, several nations have had poor air quality due to the high emission of particulate matter (PM2.5) that affects human health conditions, especially in urban areas. In this research, a new optimization-based regression model was implemented for effective forecasting of air pollution. Firstly, the input data were acquired from a real-time Beijing PM2.5 dataset recorded from 1 January 2010 to 31 December 2014. Additionally, the newer real-time dataset was recorded from 2016 to 2022 for four Indian cities: Cochin, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bangalore. Then, data normalization was accomplished using the Min-Max normalization technique, along with correlation analysis for selecting highly correlated variables (wind direction, temperature, dew point, wind speed, and historical PM2.5). Next, the important features from the highly correlated variables were selected by implementing an optimization algorithm named reinforced swarm optimization (RSO). Further, the selected optimal features were given to the bi-directional gated recurrent unit (Bi-GRU) model for effective AQP. The extensive numerical analysis shows that the proposed model obtained a mean absolute error (MAE) of 9.11 and 0.19 and a mean square error (MSE) of 2.82 and 0.26 on the Beijing PM2.5 dataset and a real-time dataset. On both datasets, the error rate of the proposed model was minimal compared to other regression models.
Does the “Greenwashing” and “Brownwashing” of Corporate Environmental Information Affect the Analyst Forecast Accuracy?
Authors: Wei Jing
Published: July 2023

Taking the listed firms of heavy pollution industries in China for 2010–2021 as a sample, this study explored the impact and heterogeneity of corporate environmental disclosure behavior on analyst forecasts’ accuracy. We discovered that corporates measure or disclose environmental information and, the more environmental information is measured or disclosed, the more accurate analysts’ forecasts are; moreover, there is a strong and significant correlation between the environmental information given in the special reports and analysts’ forecast accuracy. This positive correlation is even more significant in cases of “matching words to deeds” and “brownwashing” by corporates. A mechanism analysis revealed that the analysts’ coverage and site visits both have a full or partial mediating effect. Specifically, analysts’ coverage is more likely to be elicited when corporates measure or disclose environmental information; the higher the degree of measurement or disclosure, disclose in the special reports, “matching words to deeds” and “brownwashing”. Analysts conducted site visits when corporates measured or disclosed environmental information, the higher the degree of measurement or disclosure, disclose in the special reports and “brownwashing”. The information above demonstrates that, on the one hand, specialized reports are published to supplement financial disclosures and, on the other hand, that analysts place importance on corporates’ incremental and explicit environmental information; however, “information screening” is insufficient and some “information mining” was carried out when corporate environmental information disclosure was insufficient. This study shed light on analysts’ roles in the improvement of the information environment of China’s capital market as well as the objective appraisal of the impact of corporate environmental information disclosure.
Farm-to-Fork and Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Perceived Economic Benefit as a Moderator and Environmental Sustainability as a Mediator
Authors: Elshaer Ibrahim A. , Azazz Alaa M. S. , Hassan Salah S. , Fayyad Sameh
Published: July 2023

In recent years, there has been growing interest in promoting sustainable agriculture and reducing the environmental impact of the food system. One approach to achieving these goals is through farm-to-Fork (FTF) sourcing, which involves direct procurement of food products from local farms to restaurants table. This approach has been touted as a way to support sustainable agriculture and decrease the carbon footprint of the food supply chain. This study aims to explore the relationship between farm-to-fork sourcing, perceived economic benefit, and environmental sustainability. Specifically, the research examines the moderating effect of the perceived economic benefit as well as the mediating role of environmental sustainability in the relationship between farm-to-fork (FTF) sourcing and sustainable agriculture practices. To investigate these relationships, a web-based questionnaire was designed and collected from 298 farmers. The collected data were analyzed via PLS-SEM. The results of the study suggest that farm-to-fork sourcing has a positive impact on sustainable agriculture practices and both perceived economic benefit and environmental sustainability have a moderating and mediating role in these relationships. This finding is consistent with the idea that direct procurement of food from local farms can lead to economic benefits for both farmers and restaurants, while also reducing the carbon footprint of the food supply chain.
Variable Speed Limit Control for the Motorway–Urban Merging Bottlenecks Using Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Fang Xuan , Péter Tamás , Tettamanti Tamás
Published: July 2023

Traffic congestion is a typical phenomenon when motorways meet urban road networks. At this special location, the weaving area is a recurrent traffic bottleneck. Numerous research activities have been conducted to improve traffic efficiency and sustainability at bottleneck areas. Variable speed limit control (VSL) is one of the effective control strategies. The primary objective of this paper is twofold. On the one hand, turbulent traffic flow is to be smoothed on the special weaving area of motorways and urban roads using VSL control. On the other hand, another control method is provided to tackle the carbon dioxide emission problem over the network. For both control methods, a multi-agent reinforcement learning algorithm is used (MAPPO: multi-agent proximal policy optimization). The VSL control framework utilizes the real-time traffic state and the speed limit value in the last control step as the input of the optimization algorithm. Two reward functions are constructed to guide the algorithm to output the value of the dynamic speed limit enforced within the VSL control area. The effectiveness of the proposed control framework is verified via microscopic traffic simulation using simulation of urban mobility (SUMO). The results show that the proposed control method could shape a more homogeneous traffic flow, and reduces the total waiting time over the network by 15.8%. In the case of the carbon dioxide minimization strategy, the carbon dioxide emission can be reduced by 10.79% in the recurrent bottleneck area caused by the transition from motorways to urban roads.
Ball Mill, Humic Acid, and Rock Phosphate-Modified Conocarpus Biochar for Efficient Removal of Heavy Metals from Contaminated Water
Authors: Alhawas Mansour S. , Rafique Muhammad Imran , Ahmad Munir , Al-Wabel Mohammad I. , Usman Adel R. A. , Al-Swadi Hamed Ahmed , Al-Farraj Abdullah S.
Published: July 2023

An increasing trend of anthropogenic activities such as urbanization and industrialization has resulted in induction and accumulation of various kinds of heavy metals in the environment, which ultimately has disturbed the biogeochemical balance. Therefore, the present study was conducted to probe the efficiency of conocarpus (Conocarpus erectus L.) waste-derived biochar and its modified derivatives for the removal of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) from aqueous solutions. Biochar was produced at 600 °C and modified with humic acid (1:10 w/v ratio) and rock phosphate (0.5:1 w/w ratio). Additionally, produced biochar, as well as humic acid and rock phosphate-modified biochars, were subjected to ball milling separately. Equilibrium and kinetics batch experiments were conducted to investigate heavy metals adsorption on synthesized adsorbents. Adsorption isotherms and kinetics models were employed to explore the adsorption efficiency of produced materials for metals adsorption. Among all the applied adsorbents, ball-milled biochars showed comparatively higher adsorption compared to un-milled biochars. Humic acid and rock phosphate-modified milled biochar showed the highest adsorption capacity for Pb (18.85 mg g−1), while rock phosphate-modified milled biochar showed the highest adsorption capacity for Cu and Zn (24.02 mg g−1 and 187.14 mg g−1), and humic acid modified biochar adsorbed maximum Cd (30.89 mg g−1). Adsorption isotherm study confirmed Freundlich as the best-suited model (R2= 0.99), while kinetics adsorption was well described by the pseudo-second-order (R2 = 0.99). Hence, it was concluded that ball-milled biochar modified with humic acid and rock phosphate could potentially remove heavy metals from contaminated water.
The Durability of High-Volume Fly Ash-Based Cement Composites with Synthetic Fibers in a Corrosive Environment: A Long-Term Study
Authors: Sugandhini H. K. , Nayak Gopinatha , Shetty Kiran K. , Kudva Laxman P.
Published: July 2023

The utilization of class F fly ash (F-FA) is limited to 15–30% as a substitution for cement. The study intends to tap into the potential of high-volume F-FA as a pozzolan and micro filler by eliminating aggregates. The article presents the long-term behavior of a novel cement composite called no-aggregate concrete (NAC), incorporating 20% ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and 80% F-FA, with polypropylene (PP) fibers in 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0% volume fractions, in a corrosive environment. The bulk diffusion of preconditioned 100 mm cubes reveals that all mixtures’ chloride-binding capacity increases significantly with prolonged exposure. The total chloride content for mixtures M1, M2, and M3 is within acceptable limits as per EN 206. M4 with 1.0% PP fibers shows a higher total chloride content at 2 cm depth. The average chloride content for all mixtures is within 0.4%. The compressive strength of mixtures cured in water is about 90 MPa at 730 days, and is severely affected in the absence of fibers in a corrosive environment. The microstructure of mixtures at 730 days displays a cohesive, compact, continuous matrix, and the presence of unreacted F-FA.
Thermodynamic Effect of High-Rise Reinforced Concrete Typology on Asian Cities: Effect of Socioeconomic Obsolescence Factors on Thermodynamic Complexity
Authors: Jin Keojin
Published: July 2023

The construction of reinforced concrete (RC) apartments played a crucial role in accommodating the substantial increase in urban populations during the post-war period in Asian cities. However, the RC process in these regions exhibits limitations in terms of the building’s life cycle duration. These limitations arise due to two main factors: the inherent hybrid nature of RC and the insufficient measures for addressing inner rebar corrosion, as well as the lack of adequate control over the management of the “structural class” amid rapid economic expansion. This study examines the impact of rapid urbanization and economic growth on the construction industry, with a specific focus on the utilization of concrete buildings. Drawing on Odum’s urban energetics theory, macroeconomic data are analyzed to investigate the patterns and implications of widespread concrete construction during the late 20th century, particularly in Asian countries. The findings are then compared with earlier periods of economic expansion in other countries, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between urbanization, economic growth, and the use of concrete structures. The application of Odum’s theory enhances the analytical process, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of the macro urban energy system. In this assessment, four countries are selected based on the stage of their urban economic expansion. The selection is determined using the recent changes observed in three key factors: (1) urban concentration, (2) GDP growth rate, and (3) gross fixed capital formation (GFCF) on housing volume. The assessment identifies the point in time when production, represented by the GDP growth rate, surpasses consumption, represented by GFCF on housing volume. Through this assessment, it becomes possible to make macro-scaled predictions about the urban energy system, even with limited archival data available.
Evidence for Microchimerism in Baboon Recipients of Pig Hearts
Authors: Jhelum Hina , Bender Martin , Reichart Bruno , Mokelke Maren , Radan Julia , Neumann Elisabeth , Krabben Ludwig , Abicht Jan-Michael , Kaufer Benedikt , Längin Matthias , Denner Joachim
Published: July 2023

Xenotransplantation, like allotransplantation, is usually associated with microchimerism, i.e., the presence of cells from the donor in the recipient. Microchimerism was reported in first xenotransplantation trials in humans, as well as in most preclinical trials in nonhuman primates (for review, see Denner, Viruses 2023, 15, 190). When using pigs as xenotransplantation donors, their cells contain porcine endogenous retroviruses (PERVs) in their genome. This makes it difficult to discriminate between microchimerism and PERV infection of the recipient. Here, we demonstrate the appropriate virological methods to be used for the identification of microchimerism, first by screening for porcine cellular genes, and then how to detect infection of the host. Using porcine short interspersed nuclear sequences (SINEs), which have hundreds of thousands of copies in the pig genome, significantly increased the sensitivity of the screening for pig cells. Second, absence of PERV RNA demonstrated an absence of viral genomic RNA or expression as mRNA. Lastly, absence of antibodies against PERV proteins conclusively demonstrated an absence of a PERV infection. When applying these methods for analyzing baboons after pig heart transplantation, microchimerism could be demonstrated and infection excluded in all animals. These methods can be used in future clinical trials.
A New Dialectical Model of Water Security under Climate Change
Authors: Ganoulis Jacques
Published: July 2023

Although Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) is widely accepted as the state-of-the-art rational model for improving water governance, its evaluations under climate change at national and global scales indicate that progress made in water security and ecosystem preservation is slow. The paper identifies the relationship between Humans and Nature as the main reason for that and generates a novel social component to improve Water Resources Management (WRM) following three pillars: (1) A historical review over the past 20,000 years indicating that WRM depends on the interplay between Humans and Nature. This is in constant change over time, and depending on socio-economic and climate conditions, it oscillates between two opposites: conflict and cooperation. Three clusters have been identified, showing a different timeline pattern of dominance: (a) Nature dominating Humans (Naturalistic), (b) Nature–Humans in cooperation and competition (Dualistic), and (c) Humans dominating Nature (Anthropocentric). (2) Clarification of why a WRM model can improve water security through the Governance–Policy–Science Nexus. (3) Suggestion of a novel WRM model based on conflict identification (eristic component) and dialectical conflict resolution. Two types of conflicts have been distinguished: (a) Human vs. Human and (b) Human vs. Nature when the laws of nature are not respected. The dialectical tool operates by exchanging rational arguments to unify opposite objectives for harmonizing Humans with Natural laws. A case study of flood mitigation in Crete Island illustrates the Eristic–Dialectical methodology.
Revenue reflection in the auditor’s report on accounting statements
Authors:   Federal State Educational Institution of Higher Education “Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation”, Moscow, Russia, Sotnikova Lyudmila Viktorovna
Published: July 2023

Organizations whose securities are traded with the organizers of trading on the securities market, which include public joint-stock companies, are subject to mandatory audit. In the audit reports, according to the requirements of the international auditing standard 701 issued to such organizations, the key audit issues should be disclosed. Very often, auditors opt for such a key issue as “revenue recognition”. The article deals with situations when the choice of the subject of a key question on revenue seems insufficiently justified, and the wording of the key questions is as identical as if their text were standardized, while the adoption of standard 701 had the opposite goal — information transparency, specificity and reflection of the characteristics of the activities of each audited entity. The article uses examples to reveal various approaches to the disclosure of revenue information in key audit issues. During the research, such methods as analysis and synthesis, comparison, grouping, analogy, logical and systematic approaches were used. The research results obtained in this article can be applied in the practical work of modern organizations, in the educational process of higher educational institutions and in the development and reform of regulatory documents on accounting, reporting and auditing. The results presented in this paper will also be useful to a wide range of readers interested in modern problems of accounting, reporting and auditing at the domestic and international level.
Basic principles for organizing and conducting an ESG audit
Authors:   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Plekhanov Russian University of Economics”, Moscow, Russia, Prodanova N.A. , Tarasova O.N. ,   Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education “Plekhanov Russian University of Economics”, Moscow, Russia
Published: July 2023

The paper emphasizes the significance of ESG auditing as a new approach that plays a key part in the financial reporting process of businesses. According to the authors, this strategy is built on three pillars: environmental, social, and business risk management, and ESG auditing is a business development tool that assists firms in addressing environmental and social challenges. The article discusses ESG audits as a way to improve a company’s capacity to comply with new norms and criteria, as well as to decrease operational hazards through managing risks. The authors outline the fundamental methodologies of ESG auditing and provide a strategic framework for it.
MODIFIED CEMENT CONCRETE WITH DISCRETE REINFORCEMENT
Authors:   Tver State Technical University, KRUTSKIKH A.V. , PETROPAVLOVSKAYA V.B. ,   Tver State Technical University, PETROPAVLOVSKII K.S. ,   Tver State Technical University, NOVICHENKOVA T.B. ,   Tver State Technical University
Published: July 2023

Issues related to improving the quality of the operational properties of reinforced concrete and concrete structures by introducing discrete reinforcement - fiber reinforcement are topical tasks of building materials science. The aim of the study was to obtain high-tech concretes with increased flame retardant properties by introducing an optimal combination of fiber reinforcement components. The change in the compressive strength of concrete after fire tests, depending on the percentage of polypropylene fiber, is analyzed. The TSP-27-25 program, developed at the Tver State Technical University, which allows modeling various concrete compositions, was used in the calculation of the control compositions of fiber-reinforced concrete. It has been established that the addition of fiber makes it possible to increase the fire resistance of concrete with an optimal amount of it. An assessment of the strength characteristics of the studied samples after fire exposure is given. The influence of polypropylene fiber content on the nature of concrete destruction is investigated.
FEATURES OF SECTIONS DEFORMATION OF BEND REINFORCED CONCRETE ELEMENTS UNDER LOADS OF HIGH INTENSITY
Authors:   Moscow State University of Civil Engineering (National Research University), KURNAVINA S.O. , TSATSULIN I.V. ,   Mosinzhproekt Institute LLC
Published: July 2023

Many buildings are exposed to special effects of high intensity. When calculating reinforced concrete constructions both for special emergency loads and for seismic loads, the development of plastic strains in reinforcement is supposed just at the design stage. The experimental investigation of plastic deformations influence of the stress-strain state of normal sections of bending reinforced concrete elements has been made. According to the results of experiments, it has been found, that the hypothesis of plane sections is not observed in all cases. The approximation of deformations graph along the cross-section height by the bilinear function, variable during the load process, i.e hypothesis of bilinear sections, is more accurate. The dependence of coefficient A of the hypothesis of bilinear sections on the coefficient of plasticity for reinforcement deformations has been determined based on the results of numerical calculations of beams with symmetric reinforcement and beams without compressed reinforcement in a finite element software package Abaqus. The comparison of obtained numerical results with experimental data has been made, which has shown their satisfactory convergence. The maximum deviation does not exceed 13 %. The assessment of influence of coefficient of hypothesis of bilinear sections on the limit value of coefficient of plasticity for curvature, corresponding to the beginning of the destruction of compressed area of concrete is given.
A comparison of anesthesia induction by two different administration routes and doses of ketamine and medetomidine in red-eared sliders (Trachemys scripta elegans)
Authors: Lutvikadic Ismar , Maksımovıć Alan
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to assess the efficiency of ketamine and medetomidine by two different doses and routes on anesthesia depth and cardiac stability in red-eared sliders. Each turtle was anesthetized two times, with seven days wash-out period. Induction of anesthesia consisted of a bolus combination of ketamine (10 mg/kg) and medetomidine (0.2 mg/kg) administered in the left brachial biceps in the intramuscular protocol, or a bolus combination of ketamine (20 mg/kg) and medetomidine (0.2 mg/kg) administered in subcarapacial sinus after clear blood presence confirmation in the intravenous protocol. Vital signs, reaction on the skin palpation, manual mouth opening for endotracheal intubation, palpebral and cloacal reflex, and the withdrawal reflex of the front and hind limbs were measured and recorded every 5 minutes for 60 minutes after anesthesia injection. Atipamezole (1 mg/kg) was administered in the right brachial biceps one hour after ketamine and medetomidine administration. Needle insertion and possible painful reactions to drug administration were also evaluated and recorded. Obtained data were analyzed for normality and paired t-tests, Wilcoxon, or McNamar tests were performed where appropriate. The values of P≤0.05 were considered significant. A significantly less pronounced decrease in heart rate was observed with intravenous anesthesia protocol. Both protocols recorded complete anesthesia recovery 60 minutes after intramuscular atipamezole administration. A ketamine-medetomidine dose combination administered intravenously provides a more stable and consistent anesthetic plane in red-eared sliders than ketamine-medetomidine administered intramuscularly.
The acceptability of the Fire and Rescue Service working with primary care to improve identification of mental health problems in older adults. A mixed-method qualitative study
Authors: Fisher Tamsin , Chew-Graham Carolyn A , Corp Nadia , Farooq Saeed , Kingston Paul , Read Ian , Southam Jane , Spolander Gary , Stevens Dean , Walchester Mark , Warren Carmel , Kingstone Tom
Published: July 2023

Background

Mental ill-health in older adults (aged 60 years and over) is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. Older adults are less likely to access mental health services owing to perceived stigma and fear of being a burden. Non-traditional providers of health care, such as the Fire and Rescue Services (FRS), provide a possible solution to facilitate early detection of problems and help-seeking among older adults, especially in the context of pressured statutory services.

Aim

To examine whether and how FRS Home Fire Safety Visits (HFSV) could be optimised to include detection and signposting for mental health problems — particularly anxiety and depression — in older adults.

Design & setting

This mixed-method qualitative study took place in the West Midlands, UK in 2022.

Method

This study involved focus groups (n= 24) and interviews with FRS staff (n= 4) to develop an in-depth contextual understanding of he acceptability and feasibility of expanding HFSV to include identification of anxiety and depression.

Results

FRS staff were open to expanding their HFSVs to include mental health, provided they had sufficient training and support from partner agencies in primary and social care settings to accept referrals for service users presenting with symptoms of anxiety and/or depression.

Conclusion

The positive reputation of FRS staff and engagement with older adults suggests that HFSV could support the detection of anxiety and depression in older adults, and appropriate signposting to other services including primary care.
Fórmulas de Huber, Smalian e Newton avaliadas no cálculo do volume do fuste de Corymbia citriodora
Authors: Carlos Lima de Andrade Valdir
Published: July 2023

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as fórmulas de Huber (H), Smalian (S) e Newton (N) na cubagem de árvores de Corimbya citriodora. Inicialmente, a partir da análise de três diferentes seccionamentos do fuste, abaixo e acima de 1,3 m, foram desenvolvidos cinco métodos de cubagem absoluta com aplicação das fórmulas H, S e N. Nas avaliações realizadas, foram adotados critérios estatísticos como o erro médio. O delineamento utilizado foi o de blocos casualizados seguido do teste Dunnett. A partir do ajuste de equações volumétricas, adotou-se as seguintes estatísticas: coeficiente de determinação ajustado, erro padrão residual, erro médio quadrático, erro médio percentual, erro médio absoluto e soma dos quadrados dos erros relativos. Os resultados revelaram que as fórmulas H e S resultaram em um erro de 3,43 e 4,29 vezes maior que o erro cometido com a fórmula N, respectivamente. Além disso, detectou-se um ótimo e expressivo nível de exatidão da fórmula N em relação às fórmulas H e S, sendo esta última a que apresentou os piores resultados. Na estimativa de equações volumétricas não houve diferenças expressivas entre as fórmulas H, S e N, porém, a maior rapidez na implementação das fórmulas H e N, aliado ao nível de acurácia, revelou quão inadequado é o emprego da fórmula S na cubagem de árvores.
Oncoguía de cuidados paliativos 2020
Authors: Allende Pérez Silvia , Verástegui Avilés Emma L. , Domínguez Ocadio Georgina , Ascencio Huertas Leticia , Sánchez Dávila Josafat Napoleón , Rodríguez Mayoral Óscar R. , García Salamanca María Fernanda , Monreal Carrillo Edith A. , Aguilar Mena Enrique A.
Published: July 2023

Palliative care is focused on achieving the patient's best quality of life, especially by managing multiple symptoms and complications. Its main objectives are detecting, preventing, and treating (often in combination with disease-modifying treatments) the symptoms and needs of the patients and their families. The implementation of palliative care at Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan) has been a priority because late diagnosis is frequent; thus, a high percentage of patients are in advanced stages. Oncoguía de cuidados paliativos 2020 has been written considering the INCan multidisciplinary palliative care group's expertise working with surgeons, oncologists, and radiation oncologist, and based on the published international recommendations. This Oncoguía contains the framework, care processes, an algorithm with the criteria for patients' referral to palliative care, and the pharmacological resources to be used.
Oncoguía de carcinoma hepatocelular 2020
Authors: Melchor Ruan Javier , Díaz Romero Consuelo , Herrera Martínez Maritere , García Herrera Sebastián , Padilla Rosciano Alejandro Eduardo
Published: July 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) represents the most common primary liver cancer, approximately 80-85% of the cases. It is the fourth most frequent cause of death, and it ranks sixth in incidence worldwide. HCC develops in patients with underlying liver disease, mainly due to a hepatitis B or C virus infection (HBV or HCV) or alcohol abuse. The increase in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease has augmented the liver cancer risk in the last few years and soon will become one of the main causes in West countries. Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer Group (BCLC) staging is the primary clinical algorithm to define the patient’s disease stage according to the prognosis and treatment. Surveillance programs allow the detection of early-stage tumors that are susceptible to receiving curative therapies as resection, liver transplant, or local ablation. Transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) is the standard treatment for intermediate stages (BCLC staging). Such a stage is considered unresectable, even in a macroscopic vascular invasion, except for portal vein tumor thrombus. TACE may help select patients as candidates for a liver transplant but not candidates for resection or another ablative method. Systemic therapies for patients with advanced-stage liver cancer are changing fast, and now we have four new agents showing clinical efficacy in phase-III trials.
Repercusiones de los biosimilares (biocomparables) en el sistema sanitario latinoamericano
Authors: Chiquete Erwin , Castañeda-Hernández Gilberto
Published: July 2023

The generation of competition in the market translates into benefits. However, the availability of generic and biocomparable drugs (also known as biosimilars) that have reduced prices does not necessarily come without additional health costs. The concept of «biosimilar», as defined internationally, implies that the molecules produced to compete with the innovator are comparable to the original biological molecules. Most of the time, differences are not in the molecular structure per se, but in the manufacturing processes (although this is not necessarily true in all cases around the world). That is of potential importance if we consider that some modifications can lead to efficacy and safety that could be different from expected. The non-comparable safety of biosimilar molecules has been studied for decades. Thus, it is essential that the production and distribution processes of non-innovator drugs are adequately monitored, so that the population can be reasonably assured that they receive quality products, and that the information derived from scientific studies applies to them and their circumstances.
Oncoguía de cáncer cervicouterino 2020
Authors: Isla Ortiz David , Aguilar Villanueva Sergio Israel , Cantú de León David F. , Salcedo Hernández Rosa Angélica , Barquet Muñoz Salim Abraham , Cetina Pérez Lucely , Arango Bravo Eder , Galicia Carmona Tatiana , Gallardo Rincón Dolores , Pérez Quintanilla Milagros , Ruiz Campos Miguel , Navarro Santiesteban Sarina , Vanoye Carlo Elva Gabriela , Estrada Rivera Silvia Fabiola , Salazar Campos Jessica Elizabeth , Torres Mendoza Rodolfo Saúl , Vázquez García Hugo M. , Trejo Durán Guadalupe Elizabeth
Published: July 2023

In Mexico, cervical cancer (CC) is the second cause of death for cancer in women. The persistent infection by human papillomavirus is directly related to the development of CC. The vaccine is the optimal preventive measure. The diagnosis should be established based on a physical exam and biopsy. In early stages, surgical staging (through histologic examination) determines the prognosis and the need for neoadjuvant treatment. It is recommended to perform thoracoabdominal computed tomography in locally advanced diseases to assess the nodal disease site and extension. Treatment is based on the clinical stage and the patient’s performance status; surgery is the cornerstone in the early clinical stages. Radiotherapy is the election treatment in patients who cannot undergo surgery. The standard treatment for locally advanced disease is definite chemoradiotherapy. Systemic therapy is appropriate for patients with metastatic, recurrent, and persistent stages and not candidates for surgical management and/or radiotherapy. This Oncoguía also describes the recurrent and metastatic disease management, fertility preservation and CC, and pregnancy.
Efectos farmacológicos de los cannabinoides
Authors: Espinoza-González Verónica , Bribiesca-Victorio Alejandro , Castillo-Guzmán Ariadna , López-González Ana María , Campos-Kraychete Durval , Gerez-Malo Montserrat , Díaz-Pérez Elizabeth , Gómez-Arévalo Gonzalo , Guillén-Núñez María del Rocío , Lara-Solares Argelia , Pier-Gary Anette , Rico María Antonieta , Waisburg Claudio , Santos-Garcia João Batista , Castañeda-Hernández Gilberto
Published: July 2023

Cannabis is a plant with a long history and deep-rooted tradition of medicinal use. The active substances of the plant (phytocannabinoids, PC), receptors, and mediators of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) were discovered at the end of the 20th century. So far, several PC and endocannabinoids (EC) have been identified; and some cannabinoids for pharmacological use have been synthesized. The non-cannabinoid compounds of the plant include a wide variety of terpenes and flavonoids. ECS includes receptors for PC, EC, and the enzymes in charge of synthesizing and degrading those compounds. The biological activity of the cannabinoid compounds depends on the interaction with the ECS receptors and other signaling pathways: CB1 and CB2. These latter are the primary mediators of the response to cannabinoids, and ECS receptors. In this document, the EC biosynthesis pathways are also presented. Likewise, the use of cannabinoids for various pathologies and clinical conditions such as epilepsy, pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomit, spasticity by multiple sclerosis, insomnia, and post-traumatic stress disorder are described. It also includes the adverse-events evidence of these compounds. This perspective article aims to summarize the evidence of the cannabis pharmacological effects and show the importance they have had and will gain in medical use.
The Effect of Fraud Diamond on Financial Statements of Insurance Companies in Indonesia
Authors: Dewi Novy Silvia , Pinasthika Benediktus Tandya
Published: July 2023

The Jiwasraya corruption scandal and related cases revealed significant financial distress, opportunities for fraud, rationalization of actions, and the ability to manipulate financial statements, emphasizing the importance of research and awareness in addressing fraudulent financial statements in the insurance industry. This study aims to analyze the impact of the fraud diamond, composed of pressure, opportunity, capability, and rationalization, on corporate financial statement fraud. This study is crucial due to the pressing issue of fraud incidents at several state-owned insurance firms in recent years. An insurance company serves as the sample for this research, using STATA to utilize 55 financial statement observations from 2016-2020, with a research duration of 5 years. The study's findings were not able to establish that the fraud diamond, composed of pressure, opportunity, capability, and rationalization, affects financial statement fraud. This contradicts the results of previous examinations and marks the first instance of rejection of a hypothesis established through regression modeling in this field of study. The occurrence of financial statement fraud may vary among sectors based on the results of this study. This study contributes to understanding fraudulent financial reporting in the insurance industry, emphasizing the importance of pressure and opportunity as key factors.Â
Five New Combinations in Passiflora sect. Dysosmia (Passifloraceae)
Authors: Svoboda Harlan T.
Published: July 2023

Five taxa, originally described or typically circumscribed as varieties of Passiflora foetida L. (Passifloraceae), are here recognized as distinct species in Passiflora sect. Dysosmia DC. on the basis of their unique suites of morphological traits that include variations in the arrangement of foliar glands, reduced involucral bracts, distinct vestiture, and, in most cases, red fruit. Four new combinations and one nomen novum are published for these: P. lanuginosa (Killip) H. T. Svoboda, P. oaxacana (Killip) H. T. Svoboda, P. orinocensis (Killip) H. T. Svoboda, P. subintegra (Killip) H. T. Svoboda, and P. wrightiana H. T. Svoboda. The last is a replacement name for P. ciliata Aiton var. riparia C. Wright ex Griseb. Their distributions and distinctions from P. foetida are summarized.
Economic Transformation in Achieving Sustainable Development before and after the Kingdom's Vision 2030 (A Case Review for Saudi Arabia)
Authors: Jabali Hayam M. , Alharbi Areej Hamoud , Rajan Preethi
Published: July 2023

Saudi Arabia has come a long way in developing its economy with Vision 2030 as its goal to achieve economic transformation. Prior to implementing Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia had faced many issues which led to the imbalance of its economy. Instigating Vision 2030 led to a drastic change in the tourism sector. Attracting international investments led to focusing on various sectors like renewable energy, entertainment and soon. Even though the tourism sector lacked diversity initially, after the implementation of Vision 2030, non-related economic segments flourished.
An Analysis of Growth of Cashless Transactions in India
Authors: Sampath M , Arivazhakan M , Dinesh M
Published: July 2023

The Government of India has launched Digital India campaign to make available the services of Government through internet. The objective of the study is to analyse the Growth and Forecast the trend of cashless transactions and also analyse the Growth performance of modes of cashless transactions in India. The analysis was based on secondary data and tools like AGR, CAGR and Trend Analysis to evaluate growth and trend. Hence, the study indicates that the Development of technology for cashless transactions in India has improved and it tends to achieve the motive of cashless India.
The Export Pattern of Commercial Crops and Related Products of India: A Comparative Study
Authors: Vadivel Loganathan
Published: July 2023

India has completed two and a half decades of economic reforms. There are studies related to the impact of reforms on India’s export. Most of the studies have analyzed India’s foreign trade as a whole and in terms of value in specific. The present study is an attempt to evaluate the impact of reforms on India’s commercial crops and related products in India, in terms of quantity and value. The impact has been measured through decadal value, Compound Growth Rate (CGR), Instability Index (II) and Dummy Semi-Logarithmic Regression Estimation. It has been observed that reforms accelerated the export performance of all commercial crops during the reform period comparable to the pre-reform and overall study periods. During the reform period, some of the commercial crops viz. Natural rubber (12.50), silk (8.76), jute (10.84) and tobacco unmanufactured (6.50) have moved to positive growth rate from a negative growth rate during the pre-reform period and three products were moved from low CGR to high CGR viz. Cotton lint (20.92), rubber natural dry (38.40) and textile fibers (20.32) during the reform period. The Instability Index for all the commercial crops has decreased during the reform period, compared to the pre-reform period, except rubber natural dry (3.89) but compared to the overall period the Instability Index has registered a high value during the reform period. The jute and silk have moved to a low Instability Index group during the reform period from the medium Instability Index during the pre-reform period. The rubber natural has moved to a medium Instability Index during the reform period from a low Instability Index group during the pre-reform period. The estimation of the semi-log regression model has confirmed that there has been a positive significant change in the export of commercial crop items during the reform period.