bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Layered solutions for a nonlocal Ginzburg-Landau model with periodic modulation
Authors: Chen Ko-Shin , Muratov Cyrill , Yan Xiaodong
Published: May 2023

We study layered solutions in a one-dimensional version of the scalar Ginzburg-Landau equation that involves a mixture of a second spatial derivative and a fractional half-derivative, together with a periodically modulated nonlinearity. This equation appears as the Euler-Lagrange equation of a suitably renormalized fractional Ginzburg-Landau energy with a double-well potential that is multiplied by a 1-periodically varying nonnegative factor $ g(x) $ with $ \int_0^1 \frac{1}{g(x)} dx < \infty. $ A priori this energy is not bounded below due to the presence of a nonlocal term in the energy. Nevertheless, through a careful analysis of a minimizing sequence we prove existence of global energy minimizers that connect the two wells at infinity. These minimizers are shown to be the classical solutions of the associated nonlocal Ginzburg-Landau type equation.
La Cinémathèque centrale de l’enseignement public : un fonds à redécouvrir
Authors: Rolland Frédéric
Published: May 2023

La Cinémathèque centrale de l’enseignement public trouve son origine dans l’ouverture d’un service de prêt de films au sein du Musée pédagogique. Cédé en 2010, par l’actuel réseau Canopé, à la Direction des bibliothèques de l’université Sorbonne Nouvelle, le fonds souffre aujourd’hui d’un manque de notoriété alors que cette cinémathèque fut une des plus importantes de France par le nombre de copies prêtées ou par les volumes présents dans ses magasins entre 1920 et 1996. L’inscription de la Cinémathèque centrale dans l’historiographie de l’éducation s’avère aujourd’hui une nécessité.
Correlation between Q-Factor and Residual Stress in Epitaxial 3C-SiC Double-Clamped Beam Resonators
Authors: Sapienza Sergio , Ferri Matteo , Belsito Luca , Marini Diego , Zielinski Marcin , La Via Francesco , Roncaglia Alberto
Published: May 2023

In this work, we investigate the correlation between tensile residual stress and Q-factor of double-clamped beams fabricated on epitaxial 3C-SiC layers grown on both <100> and <111> silicon substrates, using a completely optical measurement setup to measure the Q-factor of the resonators and the residual stress of the layers by means of purposely designed micromachined test structures. From the measurements, a clear correlation appears between the residual stress of the SiC layer and the Q-factor of the resonators, with Q-factor values above half a million for resonators fabricated on <111> substrates, showing residual stress around 1 GPa.
Controlled Macrostepping of Si-Face 4°off 4H-SiC over a Large Area via Liquid Si-Induced Reconstruction
Authors: Jousseaume Yann , Cauwet François , Woerle Judith , Grossner Ulrike , Aslanidou Sofia , Rius Gemma , Godignon Philippe , Ferro Gabriel
Published: May 2023

The reconstruction of 4°off 4H-SiC surfaces was investigated using Si melting at 1550°C in a SiC/Si/SiC sandwich configuration. Despite systematically obtaining a macrostepped morphology over the entire areas in contact with the liquid Si, the steps were found wavy when using as-received 4H-SiC wafers. The regularity and straightness of the steps were significantly improved when the surface reconstruction was performed on processed surfaces: on re-polished surfaces the steps were found to be regular and straight in some cases, while this was constantly observed on as-grown epitaxial layers. After a reconstruction process of 2h, the best regularity of the steps was obtained with an average width of ̴ 3-5 μm. Increasing the processed area from 1.44 to 4 cm2 did not affect the results which suggests a good scalability of the process.
Effect of Varying Beryllium Addition on Microstructure, and Corrosion Behaviors of Cu-Zn-Al Shape Memory Alloys
Authors: Dawood Nawal Mohammed , Salim Asia Mishaal
Published: May 2023

Due to their properties, potential for demonstrating shape memory behavior, and cheaper cost, copper-based SMA materials hold great promise for use in a variety of industrial and medical applications. This work used powder metallurgy to create Cu-based SMA using Cu-25Zn-4Al as the master alloy. The master alloy having Beryllium additions of (0.4, 0.8, and 1.2%wt.) was studied. After combining the powders, all samples were compacted using compaction stresses of (800 MPa). Then, the process of sintering in a tube furnace using argon gas has been accomplished in three stages, the first stage lasting two hours at 350°C, the second lasting two hours at 550°C, and the third lasting three hours at 900°C. All samples are treated with a solution heat treatment that involves heating them to 850 °C for an hour, quenching them quickly in saline ice water, and then aging them at 450 °C for 180 minutes. According to linear polarization tests the adding 1.2 weight percent of the Be to the base alloy (Cu-25Zn-4Al alloy) decreased corrosion rate by (95%) as compared to the base sample in a 3.5 weight percent NaCl solution. Keywords-Cu-Zn-Al shape memory alloys, corrosion behavior, shape memory properties, Beryllium, microstructure
Impact of Accelerated Weathering on Fire Resistance Performance of Intumescent Materials
Authors: Zaki Aya , Elkady Ramy M. , Khalaf Tamer M. , Elkady Mahmoud A. , Shebl Sayed
Published: May 2023

The fire resistance performance of intumescent fireproofing materials for steel structure changes with time, as a result of exposure to environmental conditions especially temperature. The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of environmental conditions on fire protection properties (fire performance and char formation) of intumescent coating materials by using accelerated weathering technique. In this study a group of eight steel plates were coated with intumescent fireproofing of the same dry film thickness (DFT), the prepared samples were devided into two supgroups in which every supgroup of four specimens was exposed to ultraviolet radiation (UV) of wavelength (340 nm) for 0, 3, 6 and 9 years. The all intumescent coated samples were exposed to fire resistance tests in accordance with International test standard to evaluate their fire resistance performance. The formed char layers were characterized by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results revealed insignificant change in the fire resistance for the 3 years aged samples. Increasing the accelerating aging over 3 years led to remarkable degradation of fire resistance. The SEM analysis revealed various foaming efficiencies as function of the exposure time.
Influence of Silica Nanoparticles on the Properties of Nanocomposite Based on Epoxy as Concrete Protective Coating
Authors: Shohide Mostafa A. , Ahmed Mona A.
Published: May 2023

Concrete structure especially that exposed to aggressive environment is deteriorated leading to damage of concrete buildings. Concrete coating is one of the most effective methods used for concrete protection. In this work epoxy was modified with nanosilica (NS) with different loadings. Epoxy nanosilica (EP-NS) composite was formulated and used as concrete protective coating after evaluate its properties regarding drying time, dry film thickness (DFT), adhesion strength. The coated concretes ware tested as; water absorption, contact angle (hydrophobicity) and chloride diffusion resistance by ion exchange method. Although, durability of coated concretes were examined by determining change in weight and change in compressive strength after immersion in both sulfuric acid and sodium chloride solution separately. The study revealed that, the optimum NS content is 3 % by total weight of coating. The prepared EP-NS coatings have significant protection mechanism for enhancing concrete performance against the postulated aggressive attack. Keywords: protective coating, polymer nanocomposite coating
Comparison of Clinical Parameters between the Treatment of Infrabony Defects with and without Concentrated Growth Factors in Open Flap Debridement: In vivo Study
Authors: Joshi Nancy , Dave Bela , Thakker Viral , Dave Anuja , Katariya Mahendra , Raj Kandarp
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

This study aimed to clinically and radiographically compare the regenerative effects of open flap debridement alone and in combination with concentrated growth factor (CGF) in the treatment of periodontal three-walled infrabony defects.

Materials and Methods:

Fifteen patients who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were selected from the outpatient department of periodontology. A split-mouth study was conducted and bilateral or contralateral defects were divided into two groups using computer-generated randomisation sheets-control site (open flap debridement alone) and case site (open flap debridement with CGF). Clinical parameters were assessed at baseline, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months. Radiographic parameters were assessed at baseline and 6 months postoperatively.

Results:

At 3 and 6 months postoperatively, the test group showed statistically significant improvement in clinical parameters as compared to the control group. At 6 months postoperatively, the test group showed improved bone fill as compared to the control group.

Conclusion:

Present study indicates that CGF, as a biological material has the property to enhance wound healing and result in mean pocket depth reduction of periodontal infrabony defects. In addition, long-term, multicentered randomised, controlled clinical researches will be required to better understand the clinical and radiographic effects of CGF on periodontal regeneration.
Quality Audit of Haematology Laboratory: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Sudarshan K. , Das Subhashish , Hemalatha A. , Raju Kalyani
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

Laboratory results play an essential role in both medical decision-making and inpatient management. In many clinical scenarios, laboratory test results are essential to make the right diagnosis or choosing the suitable treatment regimen. The aims and objectives were to study 13 National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL)-specific common quality indicators (QIs) in the haematology laboratory of a tertiary care teaching hospital.

Materials and Methods:

NABL accredited a laboratory-based, cross-sectional study done in the haematology laboratory of NABH-recognised tertiary care teaching hospital over 5 years from January 2017 to April 2022 with a sample size of 1586,096. Quality parameters studied include sample rejection rates, sample redo rates, routine turnaround time (TAT), critical reports and their TAT, corrected reports, staining quality etc. The QI rates were calculated on a monthly basis, and trends were analysed. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The most common error was clotted sample 634 (0.04%), followed by rejection due to the misidentification of sample 128 (0.008%). Several monthly critical alerts showed an upward trend (P = 0.045) which could be attributed to increased awareness amongst laboratory staff. Redo rates showed no significant change in trend over the study period.

Conclusion:

Updating the knowledge on laboratory services, adequate training of the staff and sensitisation about the importance of the QIs in all three phases will help minimise errors.
Evaluation of Phlebotomy Quality Metrics: An Effective Tool for Quality Patient Care
Authors: Unnithan Aiswarya , Das Subhashish , Raju Kalyani
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

Contrary to popular belief, phlebotomy is not just about venipuncture. Still, it is much more than that as phlebotomy is considered a natural face of any laboratory that provides vital support for complete diagnostic services. Quality in laboratory results significantly impacts the diagnosis and management of patients since about 80% of all medical decisions are based on laboratory results. Quality indicators (QIs) are known to analyse the performance of laboratories and monitoring of QIs leads to finding areas that need improvement. QIs are qualitative or quantitative information associated with an event, process or result put under observation, which can evaluate the changes over time. It is also able to verify achievement by comparing it with set criteria.

Materials and Methods:

A laboratory-based cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate QIs from January 2017 to date undertaken to evaluate the following quality parameters: (a) incompletely filled requisition forms (RFs), (b) wrongly labeled samples, (c) haemolysed samples, (d) clotted samples, (e) turnaround time estimation and (f) topographical errors. These indicators were captured daily and analysed monthly, and appropriate remedial steps were taken.

Results:

A total of 315,250 samples were received during the study period. In the pre-analytical phase, incomplete RFs 3783 (1.2%) was the poorest QI, followed by haemolysis 2522 (0.8%) samples.

Conclusion:

Continuous monitoring of QIs not only helps provide error-free services but also helps qualitative improvement of diagnosis services along with better patient care.
Level of Copper in Unstimulated Saliva and its Impact on Dental Caries amongst Different Dentition: A in vivo Comparative Analysis
Authors: Mathur Anmol , Mathur Aditi , Jain Manish , Gopalakrishnan D
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

The role of trace elements towards dental caries was a topic of interest, with the only trace element of choice as fluoride, but further research has not seriously been considered.

Materials and Methods:

Children were divided into two groups according to their age and were further stratified into two categories, each depending on their caries status low- and high-caries group. Unstimulated saliva was collected and evaluated three times to assess each selected individual’s copper concentration.

Results:

The mean salivary copper levels are associated with a higher concentration amongst the low-caries group of children from 3 to 5 and 12 to 14 years (0.54 and 0.52), respectively.

Conclusions:

The study presents an inverse association of copper concentration with caries.
Diabetic Myonecrosis: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Nalloor Srinivas , Pooja Rajesh Puttur , Prasad B N Shiva , Vijay H V , Chandrashekar Praveen
Published: May 2023

Diabetic myonecrosis is an infrequent complication of long-standing, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. It usually involves the muscles of the lower limbs presenting with acute onset pain and swelling. It is often seen in association with chronic kidney disease. We present a case series of seven episodes seen over 5-year duration. All these patients had a long duration of poorly controlled diabetes associated with other microvascular complications. They were treated conservatively with bed rest, analgesics, vasodilators, and aspirin. The diagnosis is often missed due to its uncommon presentation and a lack of awareness. The disease resolves spontaneously but with poor long-term prognosis.
Rapid Onset Idiopathic Pulmonary Hypertension: A Case Report with a Review of Echocardiographic Parameters
Authors: Pistelli Lorenzo , Piccione Maurizio Cusmà , Parisi Francesca , Di Bella Gianluca , Micari Antonio , Vetta Giampaolo , Parlavecchio Antonio , Molinero Agustin Ezequiel , Savio Armando Lo , Zito Concetta
Published: May 2023

Pulmonary hypertension (PHT) is an emerging issue. The prognosis in PHT is usually poor, independently from the etiology, with progressive right ventricle failure. Despite right Heart Catheterism is the gold standard for diagnosis of PHT, echocardiography provides important information about prognosis and is helpful in both follow-up and first evaluation of PHT patients, showing a good correlation with invasively measured parameters by right heart catheterization. However, it is important to understand the limits of this method, particularly in some settings, where transthoracic echocardiography has shown a lack of accuracy. In this case report we documented a case of rapid onset (3 months) idiopathic PHT and we provided a critical analysis of echocardiographic role in PHT.
Myocardial Contraction Fraction is not a Predictor of Clinical Outcomes in Acute Systolic Heart Failure: A Brief Report
Authors: Chang Andrew K. , Kewcharoen Jakrin , Henkel Danielle M. , Parwani Purvi , Abramov Dmitry
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

The utility of myocardial contraction fraction (MCF), a volumetric measure of myocardial shortening, has not been well evaluated in patients with systolic heart failure (SHF)

Materials and Methods:

A single-center, retrospective cohort study of all adults admitted with acute SHF from 2013 to 2018 at an academic medical center. A chart review was performed to identify key echocardiographic transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), laboratory, and demographic characteristics. MCF was calculated based on M-mode measurements of estimated stroke volume and myocardial volume based on admission TTE. The primary outcome was 30-day combined all-cause readmission/mortality and 365-day all-cause mortality.

Results:

A total of 1282 patients were analyzed. The 30-day composite outcome occurred in 310 patients (24.2%), and all-cause death at 365 days occurred in 375 patients (29.3%). There was a weak correlation between the visually estimated ejection fraction (EF) and MCF (r = 0.356, P < 0.001). Neither MCF nor EF was associated with either component of the primary outcome. Other parameters on TTE that were associated with higher risk of primary outcome were higher tricuspid regurgitation (TR) velocity, larger left atrial (LA) diameter, and moderate or greater TR and mitral regurgitation (MR).

Conclusion:

Echocardiographic predictors of postdischarge adverse events among patients hospitalized with acute SHF include higher TR velocity, larger LA diameter, and at least moderate MR or TR. MCF does not correlate well with visually assessed EF among patients with acute SHF, and neither MCF nor EF provides prognostic information in this population.
Lipomatous Atrial Septal Hypertrophy, an Unexpected Giant Interatrial Mass: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ianni Umberto , Tofoni Paolo , Molisana Michela , Parato Vito Maurizio
Published: May 2023

Lipomatous atrial septal hypertrophy (LASH) is a histological cardiac benign lesion finding with high prevalence in healthy population, usually detected during imaging procedures for other indications. Nevertheless, it could become clinically significant if it compromises venous return and diastolic left ventricular filling, up to becoming an anatomical substrate for atrial tachyarrhythmias. We present a case of LASH diagnosed in a 54-year-old female patient admitted to our emergency department after ground fall and collateral finding of positive blood cultures leading to transesophageal echocardiography. A giant mass involving the interatrial septum was observed, in the absence of primitive neoplasia evidence after performing a total-body computed tomography scan and abdominal echography. No signs or symptoms of pulmonary venous congestion were observed, and no relevant tachyarrhythmias were detected at continuous electrocardiogram monitoring during the hospitalization period.
A Unique Case of Aortic Valve Leaflet’s Aneurysm Detected by Cardiac Computed Tomographic Angiography
Authors: Pergola Valeria , Cabrelle Giulio , Motta Raffaella
Published: May 2023

Heart valve leaflet’s aneurysm is a rare finding, and literature about this topic is sparse. Early recognition is important because their rupture can lead to catastrophic valve regurgitation. An 84-year-old male with chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy was admitted to the coronary intensive care unit for non-ST elevation myocardial infarction. Baseline transthoracic echocardiography showed normal biventricular function with inhomogeneous thickening of aortic leaflets with moderate aortic regurgitation. Because the acoustic window was limited, a transesophageal echocardiography was performed, detecting a small mass in the right aortic coronary cusp with moderate regurgitation (orifice regurgitation area: 0.54 cm2; med/max gradient: 16/32 mmHg). Endocarditis was ruled out. Because of the rapid worsening of the patient’s conditions, requiring mechanical ventilation and hemofiltration, and the potential hazard of an urgent coronary angiography, a cardiac computed tomographic angiography was performed. Detailed spatial reconstructions highlighted a bilobed cavitation in the aortic leaflets. Diagnosis of aortic leaflets’ aneurysm was made. A ”wait and see” strategy was chosen, and the patient’s general conditions gradually improved and now he is stable and uneventful. To date, no aortic leaflet’s aneurysm was described in literature.
Sinus of Valsalva Pseudoaneurysm Complicating Infective Endocarditis Causing Right Ventricular Inflow Obstruction
Authors: Ching Shing , Yue Chiu Sun
Published: May 2023

Sinus of Valsalva pseudoaneurysm (SVpA) is a rare cause of right ventricular inflow obstruction. We report such a case presented with atrial flutter and cardiogenic shock caused by tricuspid valve obstruction by a narrow-necked right SVpA complicating aortic valve infective endocarditis demonstrated on transesophageal echocardiography and cardiac computed tomography. Despite restoration of sinus rhythm, the patient ran a fatal course due to aneurysmal rupture. We show the value of transesophageal echocardiography in evaluating unstable patients with cardiogenic shock, and the need of urgent surgery in selected patients to avoid a dismal outcome.
Development and Internal Validation of a Novel Prognostic Score to Predict Mortality in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome - Driving Pressure, Oxygenation and Nutritional Evaluation – “DRONE Score”
Authors: Todur Pratibha , Nileshwar Anitha , Chaudhuri Souvik , Rao Shwethapriya , Shanbhag Vishal , Tatineni Sriharsha
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

There are few scores for mortality prediction in acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) incorporating comprehensive ventilatory, acute physiological, organ dysfunction, oxygenation, and nutritional parameters. This study aims to determine the risk factors of ARDS mortality from the above-mentioned parameters at 48 h of invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), which are feasible across most intensive care unit settings.

Methods:

Prospective, observational, single-center study with 150 patients with ARDS defined by Berlin definition, receiving IMV with lung protective strategy.

Results:

Our study had a mortality of 41.3% (62/150). We developed a 9-point novel prediction score, the driving pressure oxygenation and nutritional evaluation (DRONE) score comprising of driving pressure (DP), oxygenation accessed by the ratio of partial pressure of arterial oxygen to the fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2) ratio and nutritional evaluation using the modified nutrition risk in the critically ill (mNUTRIC) score. Each component of the DRONE score with the cutoff value to predict mortality was assigned a particular score (the lowest DP within 48 h in a patient being always ≥15 cmH2O a score of 2, the highest achievable PaO2/FiO2 <208 was assigned a score of 4 and the mNUTRIC score ≥4 was assigned a score of (3). We obtained the DRONE score ≥4, area under the curve 0.860 to predict mortality. Cox regression for the DRONE score >4 was highly associated with mortality (P < 0.001, hazard ratio 5.43, 95% confidence interval [2.94–10.047]). Internal validation was done by bootstrap analysis. The clinical utility of the DRONE score ≥4 was assessed by Kaplan–Meier curve which showed significance.

Conclusions:

The DRONE score ≥4 could be a reliable predictor of mortality at 48 h in ARDS patients receiving IMV.
Testicular Tumor Patients Presented with Scrotal Violation-Nonstandard Surgical Approach and its Survival Rate
Authors: Pramod Sawkar Vijay , Yuananda Andria , Safriadi Ferry , Hernowo Bethy S.
Published: May 2023

Purpose:

This study aimed to determine survival rate and clinical characteristics of testicular tumor patients with a history of scrotal violation.

Materials and Methods:

This study was a retrospective cohort; we reviewed medical records from 2017 to 2021 with testicular tumors who had a history of scrotal violation. We evaluate clinical characteristics and survival up to 5 years. We used the KaplanMeier survival analysis and log-rank test.

Results:

There are 27 patients with testicular tumor who had a history of scrotal violation. Based on histopathological findings, the most common type was seminoma testis. While based on TNMS staging of the testicular tumor, the most common presentation is T2; Nx; Mx; and S3. Furthermore, based on the prognostic group for testicular tumor we found 5 patients with stage IB, 15 patients with stage IS, 2 patients with stage II, and 5 patients with stage III. Clinical manifestations of scrotal violation were residual tumor found in scrotal region in 2 patients, inguinal and abdominal region in 3 patients. Using the Kaplan-Meier survival curve, the 5-year survival rate was 44% from Statistical test in log-rank test, a significant result is obtained.

Conclusion:

Survival rate of testicular tumors who had a history of scrotal violation were lower and influenced by ECOG Performance Status Scale. Prognosis of a scrotal breach in the late stage may have a higher mortality rate. In contrast, there was a significant difference in outcome if the scrotal violation had been known at the early stages.
Hypothermia as a Possible Symptom of Serotonin Toxicity: A Case Report
Authors: McKeirnan Kimberly C. , Vaitla Kavya , Gilbert Rubi , Anderson Candace B. , Undeberg Megan R.
Published: May 2023

Background There are three commonly used sets of criteria to diagnose serotonin syndrome and all three diagnostic tools have all been shown to have shortcomings that do not fully encompass the possible symptoms of serotonin toxicity. Objective To describe
a case of an atypical presentation of possible drug-induced serotonin syndrome, characterized by hypothermia, night sweats, muscle tremors, and confusion. Setting A rural and medically underserved area in eastern Washington State. Practice Description This
patient case was identified as a part of a project to identify and intervene with complex and high-risk patients from local rural and underserved populations. The pharmacist identified the symptoms of possible drug-induced serotonin syndrome during a comprehensive medication review with the
patient. Results The pharmacist identified a possible case of drug-induced serotonin syndrome and made a recommendation to the patient’s physician that led to discontinuation of both fluoxetine and trazodone. At the follow-up visit, the patient reported that his symptoms
had resolved completely. Discussion The three sets of diagnostic criteria for serotonin syndrome all include fever as a symptom, but do not list hypothermia. Effects at various 5-HT receptors and receptor subtypes have been linked to symptoms often seen in serotonin syndrome,
but there are gaps in the currently used diagnostic criteria. Conclusion Pharmacists’ comprehensive review of medications can allow identification of symptoms, such as hypothermia to identify possible serotonin syndrome.
Efficacy of a Flavored Lubricating Oral Spray on Medication Swallowing in Older Individuals
Authors: Kavalam Priya , Benkart Caitlin , Kim Catherine , Kalinousky Danielle , Parbuoni Kristine , Cooke Catherine E. , Morgan Jill A.
Published: May 2023

Background Difficulty swallowing occurs in up to 35% of patients 50 years of age or older and can contribute to medication nonadherence and other alterations. The use of a flavored lubricating spray, available over-the-counter and found to be helpful in children to swallow
oral solid medications, is not well studied in older adults. Objective To evaluate the effect of a flavored lubricating spray on the ability to swallow oral solid medication in older people. Methods A randomized, open-label, crossover study included
community-dwelling individuals 65 to 88 years of age who took at least one solid oral medication daily and were not diagnosed with dysphagia, Parkinson’s disease, or esophageal tumor. Participants were randomized to the strawberry-flavored lubricating spray or usual care and then crossed
over to the alternate option. The median rating for swallowing difficulty for their regular medications was compared using a Likert scale, from 1 (very difficult) to 5 (very easy). To provide a degree of standardization between participants, all participants were also instructed to swallow
a vitamin C (1,000 mg) tablet both with and without the flavored spray and rate their difficulty swallowing the tablet using the same Likert scale. Results There were 39 (90.7%) participants who completed the study. The median rating for swallowing difficultly was 5 (very
easy) with the spray vs. 4 (easy) with usual care (P < 0.0001). For the 66.7% who took the vitamin C tablets, the median rating for swallowing difficulty was 5 (very easy) with the spray vs. 3.5 (between neutral and easy) without (P < 0.0001). There were 94.8% of participants
who found the spray easy/ very easy to use, and 89.7% reported it tasted okay to delicious. Conclusion The use of a flavored lubricating spray provided an effective and easy-to-use tool to make medication swallowing easier in community-dwelling older adults without a diagnosis
associated with difficulty swallowing.
A Phase 3 Randomized Clinical Trial to Compare Efficacy and Safety between Combination Therapy and Monotherapy in Elderly Patients with Advanced Gastric Cancer (KCSG ST13-10)
Authors: Lee Keun-Wook , Zang Dae Young , Ryu Min-Hee , Han Hye Sook , Kim Ki Hyang , Kim Mi-Jung , Koh Sung Ae , Lee Sung Sook , Koo Dong-Hoe , Ko Yoon Ho , Sohn Byeong Seok , Kim Jin Won , Park Jin Hyun , Nam Byung-Ho , Choi In Sil
Published: May 2023

Purpose This study evaluated whether combination therapy is more effective than monotherapy in elderly patients with metastatic or recurrent gastric cancer (MRGC) as first-line chemotherapy.Materials and Methods Elderly (≥ 70 years) chemo-naïve patients with MRGC were allocated to receive either combination therapy (group A: 5-fluorouracil [5-FU]/oxaliplatin, capecitabine/oxaliplatin, capecitabine/cisplatin, or S-1/cisplatin) or monotherapy (group B: 5-FU, capecitabine, or S-1). In group A, starting doses were 80% of standard doses, and they could be escalated to 100% at the discretion of the investigator. Primary endpoint was to confirm superior overall survival (OS) of combination therapy vs. monotherapy.Results After 111 of the planned 238 patients were randomized, enrollment was terminated due to poor accrual. In the full-analysis population (group A [n=53] and group B [n=51]), median OS of combination therapy vs. monotherapy was 11.5 vs. 7.5 months (hazard ratio [HR], 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.56 to 1.30; p=0.231). Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 5.6 vs. 3.7 months (HR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.34 to 0.83; p=0.005). In subgroup analyses, patients aged 70-74 years tended to have superior OS with combination therapy (15.9 vs. 7.2 months, p=0.056). Treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) occurred more frequently in group A vs. group B. However, among severe TRAEs (≥ grade 3), there were no TRAEs with a frequency difference of > 5%.Conclusion Combination therapy was associated with numerically improved OS, although statistically insignificant, and a significant PFS benefit compared with monotherapy. Although combination therapy showed more frequent TRAEs, there was no difference in the frequency of severe TRAEs.
From the Ideal Theorem to the class number
Authors: Bordellès Olivier
Published: May 2023

In this article, we provide an explicit upper bound for$h_K \mathcal {R}_K d_K^{-1/2}$which depends on an effective constant in the error term of the Ideal Theorem.
Metal Concentrations in Canned Fish in Developing Countries and Its Relation with Human Health Risk
Authors: Mustapha Moshood Keke
Published: May 2023

Fish protein consumption by humans, including that of canned tuna fish, is rising stead-ily all over the world. There are some concerns, though, regarding the potential for exposure to high metal concentrations in canned fish products. Numerous studies on the concentration of metals in seafood, including, lead (Pb), tin (Sn), chromium (Cr), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), nickel (Ni), and cadmium (Cd) in canned fish, have been carried out worldwide. Majority of the reports indicated that the heavy metals in the canned fish were low, in the permissible limit and safe for human consumption. Some factors such as fish habitat water quality, exposure time of fish to heavy metals in wa-ter, levels of concentrations of the heavy metals in water, trophic pattern of fish, heavy metals contaminations of fish during processing, especially soldering of packaging cans, quality and shelf life of canned fish can bring about elevated rise in the heavy metals of the canned fish. It is recommended that before a fish is used for canning, prior assessment of its heavy metal concentrations should be done. Also, regular mon-itoring of the levels of heavy metals that may occur in the canned fish due to processing and canning should be carried out. All these will help in determining the safety of the canned fish, guide against any adverse health risk associated with consumption of canned fish and allay consumers` fear of cancer from the consumption of canned fish.
A Novel Flight Dynamics Modeling Using Robust Support Vector
Regression against Adversarial Attacks
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Mohammad , Botez Ruxandra Mihaela
Published: May 2023

An accurate Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Flight Dynamics Model (FDM) allows us to
design its efficient controller in early development phases and to increase
safety while reducing costs. Flight tests are normally conducted for a
pre-established number of flight conditions, and then mathematical methods are
used to obtain the FDM for the entire flight envelope. For our UAS-S4 Ehecatl,
216 local FDMs corresponding to different flight conditions were utilized to
create its Local Linear Scheduled Flight Dynamics Model (LLS-FDM). The initial
flight envelope data containing 216 local FDMs was further augmented using
interpolation and extrapolation methodologies, thus increasing the number of
trimmed local FDMs of up to 3,642. Relying on this augmented dataset, the
Support Vector Machine (SVM) methodology was used as a benchmarking regression
algorithm due to its excellent performance when training samples could not be
separated linearly. The trained Support Vector Regression (SVR) predicted the
FDM for the entire flight envelope. Although the SVR-FDM showed excellent
performance, it remained vulnerable to adversarial attacks. Hence, we modified
it using an adversarial retraining defense algorithm by transforming it into a
Robust SVR-FDM. For validation studies, the quality of predicted UAS-S4 FDM was
evaluated based on the Root Locus diagram. The closeness of predicted
eigenvalues to the original eigenvalues confirmed the high accuracy of the
UAS-S4 SVR-FDM. The SVR prediction accuracy was evaluated at 216 flight
conditions, for different numbers of neighbors, and a variety of kernel
functions were also considered. In addition, the regression performance was
analyzed based on the step response of state variables in the closed-loop
control architecture. The SVR-FDM provided the shortest rise time and settling
time, but it failed when adversarial attacks were imposed on the SVR. The
Robust-SVR-FDM step response properties showed that it could provide more
accurate results than the LLS-FDM approach while protecting the controller from
adversarial attacks.
“IMC Technology for Light Weighting”
Authors: GEORGE ANIL , KHACHANE BHUSHAN HEMRAJ
Published: May 2023

Over the last decade, Climate change due to fossil fuel burning has taken centre stage in all discussions. Automotive sector has come under some flak for being one of the contributors to this Climate Change. Active steps have been taken by Vehicle Manufacturers and their Suppliers to address this issue. This sector has been facing below challenges to reduce pollutant in the air by

A. Reducing Emissions, B. Increasing Energy Efficiency C. Use of Renewable Energy.

One of the many alternatives by the Automotive Industry was to have a phased introduction to Electric Vehicles (EV), Hybrids, Fuel cells and other variants. As various emission norms and safety requirements takes Centre stage, it invariably, increases the weight of the vehicle. Now a days, Vehicles are having challenges to make it lightweight to achieve Range for an EV and improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing safety. It has also been observed that the weight of a vehicles is more due to the Structural Members made out of metal to meet all the Safety Norms.

Innovative plastics and fiber reinforced composite materials offer a means to lightweight vehicle structures. Injection Moulding Composites (IMC) is one of the Technology to achieve this Light weighting target. IMC Technology is the combination of the Injection Moulded Process and Reinforcement Material to achieve the desired result. IMC is a suitable Technology for conversion of Metal to Plastics for Structural Parts, which gives the required strength and reduces weight of the parts.

The IMC has a significant advantage over a traditional injection molding machine. With the IMC, the processor can compound his own material himself, i. e. introduce fibers, fillers or master batches, into the process directly during processing. Since the material purchasing represents the largest cost block in the injection molding of a part, the use of an IMC increases cost efficiency. Compared with premixed compounds, the purchasing of individual components is much more cost effective.
Dissimilar Resistance Spot Welding of Steel and Aluminium Alloy Using Ni Interlayer for Automobile Structure
Authors: Chudasama Gautam , Kalyankar PhD Vivek , Chauhan Shiv , Shende Deodatta
Published: May 2023

A lightweight multi-material combination of steel and aluminium alloy (Al) is becoming a novel approach towards environmentally sustainable transport systems. Studies show that 10% reduction of vehicle weight results into 3-7% reduction in specific fuel consumption in IC engines and a 13.7% improvement in electric range for electric vehicles. However, dissimilar welding of Al/steel is a key challenge because of incompatible thermo-physical properties (melting point, thermal conductivity, and coefficient of thermal expansion) and low miscibility between Al and steel. The formation of brittle and hard Al-steel intermetallic compound (IMC) at the joint interface is the major concern for dissimilar welding of Al/steel. In this work, efforts are made to check the feasibility of Ni interlayer to control IMC formation at the interface of Al/steel dissimilar welded joint. Resistance spot welding is used to join low carbon steel CR01 and Al AA6061-T6 with pure Ni interlayer. Microstructure and IMC morphology of welded joints are investigated by optical and scanning electron microscope. The mechanical performance of welded joints is evaluated by tensile shear strength (TSS), failure energy and failure mode. Ni-interlayer does not have major effect on physical aspects of weld such as electrode indentation, Al thinning and steel bulging height. Two separate interfaces namely, Ni/Al and Ni/steel are formed with Ni interlayer. Higher amount of expulsion is taken place at the Ni/Al interface, resulting into lower TSS for dissimilar welding with Ni-interlayer compared to without interlayer.
Legal Analysis of Regional Legislative Council Supervision of Regional Government Regarding Overlapping Mining Business Permits in North Maluku Province
Authors: Hairun Radina Hamza , Alwan Sultan , Rumkel Nam
Published: May 2023

This study aims to assess the authority of provincial governments related to mining business permits. Moreover, DPRD supervision of local governments related to overlapping of overlapping mining business permits in North Maluku Province. The research method used in this study is the type of research used in the research is normative legal research as a process to find the rule of law, legal principles, and legal doctrines to answer the legal issues faced. The scientific logic that in normative legal research is built on scientific discipline and the ways in which normative legal science works, legal science whose object is law itself. The results of this study show that the authority of provincial governments related to mining business permits is explicitly regulated in the provisions of Article 14 paragraph (1) Law Number 23 of 2014 concerning Regional Government which reads "the implementation of government affairs in the fields of forestry, marine, as well as energy and mineral resources becomes a concurrent affair which is a division of authority between the central and provincial governments", The provisions of Article 14 paragraph (1) regulate mining business permits (IUP) which are no longer the authority of the regency government anymore, but become the authority of the provincial and central governments. The transfer of authority to issue mining business licenses (IUP), has a juridical impact on the provisions related to this matter will certainly change, but in its implementation the old provisions are used until there are new provisions that adapt to these rules.
Internal Factor Analysis in the Development of Health Services at Bungur Medika Hospital
Authors: Anjelier Angela , Syah Tantri Yanuar Rahmat , Lestariani Ratna Indrawati , Munandar Agus
Published: May 2023

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The Role of Government Politics and Law in Building Public Participation in Elections
Authors: Hutauruk Appe
Published: May 2023

The use of voting rights in a general election is the subjective right of citizens (people) who have qualified to vote, but from the aspect of the interests of the state and nation, it can be considered that the use of voting rights / voting rights of citizens in general elections, in essence is a form of responsibility to participate in the administration of government. However, at the current level of reality there is a tendency for people to experience "frustration" and "political lethargy" to exercise their sovereignty through the mechanism of elections. This fact is due to the fact that people feel that their aspirations cannot be accommodated after the general election and presidential election. In addition, there is the influence of pressure groups (especially groups that want the disintegration of the nation and the Unitary State of the Republic of Indonesia) so that people better abstain and become "white groups". Therefore, a directed and effective government legal policy is needed to increase legal awareness of citizens participating in exercising their active voting rights in general elections and presidential elections.
Utilization of Environment-Based PAI Learning Resources
Authors: Mahfuzi Ahmad
Published: May 2023

In the current context, learning activities have been greatly facilitated by the existence of various kinds of learning resources that can be used as a reference for exploring knowledge in order to improve and enrich our insights so that we can respond to the challenges of globalization. And one of the learning resources that can be utilized by humans is the environment. The environment is one source of learning that has a broad scope. And basically, all types of environment, around children can be used to optimize educational activities as long as they are relevant to basic competencies and learning outcomes. Based on its origin, the learning environment can be divided into three types, namely: the original natural environment, the man-made environment and the social environment. The environment does have a very important role as a source of learning, where learning from the environment is expected that students will directly experience learning from the experiences they get. Therefore, learning in the environment provides several benefits including: learning activities are more interesting, the nature of learning will be more colorful, the materials studied will be richer, learning activities will be more  comprehensive, there will be more learning resources, students can understand and live up to these aspects. life in the environment.
The Impact of Employer Branding Towards Intention to Apply on Novo Club Community Batch 1 with Corporate Reputation as Mediation Variable
Authors: Alifa Shofia Mumtaz , Sarasi Vita
Published: May 2023

This study aims to examine the effect of employer branding on the intention to apply by mediating variable corporate reputation in Novo Club Community Members Batch 1. The data in this study were tested using the SEM-PLS (Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Square) method by sampling using purposive sampling techniques to 157 respondents who were active members of Novo Club Batch 1. The data in this study was obtained through questionnaires that were distributed using the help of google forms and processed using SmartPLS 3.0 software. The result of this study is that employer branding through corporate reputation has no positive and significant effect on the intention to apply with T-statistical values of 1,485<1.96 and P-values of 0.138>0.05. Therefore, ParagonCorp needs to carry out a new strategy that is more targeted and measurable to improve the company's good reputation.
Contextual Market Basket Analysis during Covid-19
Authors: Mooy Gisela Christy , Isa Sani M
Published: May 2023

One form of Data Mining application to analyze Market Basket Analysis. Market Basket Analysis helps identify buying patterns formed from concurrent transactions. One of the problems with Market Basket Analysis is that customer needs vary according to season and time of day, especially during this covid-19 season. For this purpose, by using the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) Approach that is connected to Market Basket Analysis, it can analyze and compare purchasing patterns and can identify rules that were formed before and after covid-19; several rule changes were found due to changes in people's behavior patterns.
EFL STUDENTS’ PERCEPTIONS AND PRACTICES ON LEARNING STRATEGIES TOWARDS ESP FOR TOURISM AT SCHOOL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES, CAN THO UNIVERSITY, VIETNAM
Authors: Dieu Tran Thao , Dan Thai Cong
Published: May 2023

Learning strategies are determined as an effective approach to learning ESP. To implement more useful learning strategies, it is essential to understand the extent of practice toward learning strategies. The study focused on six (6) learning strategies, including (1) Memorization, (2) Cognitive, (3) Metacognitive, (4) Compensation, (5) Affective, and (6) Social, which were applied in four English skills belonging to English for Tourism courses. A hundred-item questionnaire was administered to investigate the perception and practice of learning strategies and interviews for students and teachers were employed to examine students’ practice of their involvement in learning strategies activities and discover teachers’ observations of students’ practice in their class. The study sample consists of 70 EFL (English as a foreign language) students who have taken the three courses of English for Tourism 1, 2, and 3 in their curriculum. The findings revealed that students had a positive attitude to a significant extent and students had positive perception toward their learning strategies performances. There found a medium correlation between the extent of perception impacts on students' practice that points out two hypotheses: (1) The higher the student's perception, the higher the extent of practice; (2) Students have good perception but the extent of practice does not depend on their perception. The findings may contribute to the discipline of ESP (English for Specific Purposes) since they not only help students understand the significance of learning strategies in learning ESP but also help ESP teachers understand students’ perceptions, from which teachers can generate more effective and appropriate learning strategies in classes for enhancing students’ productivity in learning ESP for Tourism.

 

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