bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explorative research on glucolipid metabolism and levels of adipokines in pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1 patients
Authors: Yang Yi , Song An , Gong Fengying , Jiang Yan , Li Mei , Xia Weibo , Xing Xiaoping , Wang Ou , Pan Hui
Published: March 2023

Background
Pseudohypoparathyroidism type 1 (PHP1) is a rare disease featuring hypocalcemia and elevated PTH level. Though disturbed calcium and phosphorus metabolism under PTH resistant have been widely studied, glucolipid metabolism abnormalities observed in PHP1 patients have received little attention. The aim of this research is to explore the glucolipid metabolism features in a rather large cohort of PHP1 patient. In the current study, PHP1 patients and primary hyperparathyroidism patients as well as normal control were recruited for the investigation. Glucolipid metabolic indices as well as the level of four adipokines were examined.
Results
A total of 49 PHP1 patients, 64 PHPT patients and 30 healthy volunteers were enrolled. A trend of higher HOMA-β index was found in PHP1 patients than normal controls (median 97.08% vs 68.19%, p = 0.060). Both the PHP1 and PHPT group presented with significantly lower TNFα level compared to normal controls (average 10.74 pg/ml and 12.53 pg/ml vs 15.47 pg/ml, p = 0.002 and 0.041, respectively). FGF21 level was significantly higher in PHPT group than in PHP1 group (median 255.74 pg/ml vs 167.46 pg/ml, p = 0.019). No significant difference in glucolipid metabolic indices and adipokines was found between PHP1A or PHP1B patients and normal controls, while overweight/obese PHP1 patients tended to have higher leptin than normal-BMI cases (p = 0.055). Multiple linear regression analysis showed BMI rather than PTH or HOMA-IR to be an independent variable of leptin in PHP1.
Conclusion
Metabolic stress given upon especially overweight PHP1 patients may resulted in possible β-cell compensation. Elevated TNFα may be related with hyper-PTH level regardless of calcium level.
Aldosterone inhibits EVs secretion through autophagic degradation of MVBs in LSECs leads to the activation of HSC
Authors: Chen Tingting , Zhang Yan , Zhang Yijie , Ning Zuowei , Xu Qihan , Lin Ying , gong Jiacheng , Li Jierui , chen Zhuoer , Meng Ying , Li Yang , Li Xu
Published: March 2023

Background and aims: Increasing evidence have confirmed the important role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in liver fibrosis. However, there are rarely study concerned about the EVs from liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) in the activation of hepatic stellate cells(HSCs) and liver fibrosis. Our previous work has shown that Aldosterone (Aldo) may have potential to regulate EVs from LSECs via autophagy pathway, hence we try to investigate the role of Aldo in the regulation of LSECs’ EVs.
Approach and results: Aldo were used to induce liver fibrosis in rats. Rat with LSEC-specific Atg5 knock down was used to investigate mechanisms of autophagy in LSECs drive by Aldo. EVs of LSECs was isolated and co-culture with HSCs to define it effects on the activation of HSCs. EVs of LSECs was also analyzed by RNA-sequencing. In this study we found that inhibiting autophagy in LSECs could reduce the extent of Aldo induced liver fibrosis. Aldo led to capillarization, excessive autophagy and multivesicular bodies (MVBs) degradation in LSECs which reduce its secretion of EVs. Interesting, the antifibrotic microRNA miR-342-5p was also downregulated in the EVs. Rats developed liver fibrosis and HSCs activation through specific knockdown the secretion of EVs in LSECs.
Conclusion: In summary, the degradation of MVBs through Aldo induced autophagy promotes the quantity and quality change of LSEC-derived EVs, thereby leading to the activation of HSCs in liver fibrosis in hyperaldosteronism. By regulating the LSECs’ phenotype and its EVs secretion may be a promising strategy for treating liver fibrosis.
Superior detection of significant prostate cancer by MRI-transrectal ultrasound fusion image-guided biopsy using the BioJet system over transperineal MRI-targeted cognitive biopsy
Authors: Ito Masaya , Yonese Ichiro , Ikuta Shuzo , Toide Masahiro , Kobayashi Shuichiro , Koga Fumitaka
Published: March 2023

Background
The BioJet system allows the fusion of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images with real-time transrectal ultrasonography to accurately direct biopsy needles to the target lesions. To date, the superiority of targeted biopsy using the BioJet system over cognitive registration remains unknown.
Methods
This retrospective study included 171 biopsy-naïve men with elevated prostate-specific antigen (2.5–20 ng/mL) and MRI-positive lesions; 74 and 97 men underwent a four-core targeted biopsy per MRI-positive target lesion and a 14-core systematic biopsy transperineally using the BioJet system and cognitive registration, respectively. Detection rates of significant cancer, defined as grade group ≥ 2 or maximum cancer length ≥ 5 mm, were compared between the BioJet system and cognitive registration using propensity score matching and a multivariate logistic regression model.
Results
After propensity score matching (70 men for each group), the detection rates of significant cancer were significantly higher in the BioJet group than in the cognitive group for both targeted (76% vs. 51%, P = 0.007) and systematic (70% vs. 46%, P = 0.005) biopsy. Multivariate analysis of the entire cohort also showed that the BioJet system was independently associated with significant cancer detection by targeted and systematic biopsy (P < 0.01), along with a higher prostate-specific antigen level, a lower prostate volume, and a higher prostate imaging reporting and data system score.
Conclusions
Transperineal prostate biopsy using the BioJet system is superior to cognitive registration in detecting significant cancer for targeted and systematic biopsies.
Debris-Flow Susceptibility assessment Using Stacking Ensemble Learning Including Multiple Heterogeneous Learners with RFE for factor optimization
Authors: Li Kun , Zhao Junsan , Lin Yilin
Published: March 2023

An accurate assessment of debris-flow susceptibility is of great importance to the prevention and control of debris-flow disasters in mountainous areas. In this study, by applying the recursive feature elimination-random forest (RFE-RF) and the stacking ensemble learning including multiple heterogeneous learners, debris-flow the high accuracy of the debris-flow susceptibility is assessed. As indicated by the results, the very low and low susceptibility zones of debris-flow are mainly concentrated in the eastern and western parts in the study area. The very high and high susceptibility zones are mainly distributed on the two banks of Xiaojiang River Valley and the south bank of Jinsha River, where there is fragile geological environment and high risk, in the study area. The medium susceptibility zone is mainly distributed around the very high and high susceptibility zones. There are excellent accuracy and stability in the stacking ensemble learning model of debris-flow susceptibility in the mountainous areas, when combining with the RFE-RF model and the diversity measurement. As for the stacking ensemble learning therein, the area under curve (AUC) value of the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC), the accuracy (ACC) value, and F1 score are the maximum, reaching 95.6%, 88.6%, and 88.9%, respectively. Besides, the root mean square error (RMSE) value is the minimum, namely 0.287, which indicates that stacking ensemble learning including multiple heterogeneous learners is a high-performance model for debris-flow susceptibility assessment. The findings can provide a scientific basis for the disaster prevention and mitigation in the mountainous areas.
Clinical outcomes and antibody transfer in a cohort of infants born to mothers with SARS-COV-2 infection during pregnancy (Coronascope Study)
Authors: Colom Jaime Carrasco , Manzanares Ángela , Gómez Alicia Álvaro , Escribano Isabel Serrano , Esqu Estrella , Pérez-Rivilla Alfredo , Moral-Pumarega Maria Teresa , Aguirre Elisa , de Vergas Joaquín , Barrio Sara Reda del , Moraleda Cinta , Epalza Cristina , Fernández-Cooke Elisa , Prieto Luis , Villaverde Serena , Zamora Berta , Herraiz Ignacio , Galindo Alberto , Folgueira María Dolores , Delgado Rafael , Blázquez-Gamero Daniel
Published: March 2023

Purpose: We aimed to describe the outcomes, focusing on the hearing and neurological development, of children born to mothers with SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy, and to evaluate the persistence of maternal antibodies in the first months of life.
Methods:An observational, prospective study at a tertiary hospital in Madrid (Spain) on infants born to mothers infected with SARS CoV-2 during pregnancy between March and September 2020. A follow-up visit at 1-3 months of age with a physical and neurological examination, cranial ultrasound (cUS), SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR on NPS and SARS-CoV-2 serology were performed. Hearing was evaluated at birth through the automated auditory brainstem response and at six months of age through the auditory steady-state response. A neurodevelopmental examination using the Bayley-III scale was performed at 12 months of age.
Results:Of 95 infants studied, neurological examination was normal in all of them at the follow-up visit, as was the cUS in 81/85 (95%) infants, with only mild abnormalities in four of them. Serology was positive in 47/95 (50%) infants, which was not associated with symptoms or severity of maternal infection. No hearing loss was detected and neurodevelopment was normal in 96% of the children (median Z score: 0).
Conclusions: In this cohort, the majority of infants born to mothers with SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy were healthy children with a normal cUS, no hearing loss and normal neurodevelopment in the first year of life. Only half of the infants had a positive serological result during the follow-up.
Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion for the treatment of giant cervical disc herniation
Authors: Liang Weibin , Jia Yukun , Li Shaoqiang , Zhao Kaishuai , Wang Guangye
Published: March 2023

Purpose
Giant cervical disc herniation (GCDH) is rarely seen in the clinical setting but can cause serious medullary symptoms. Several surgical treatment procedures have been reported to date, but each remains challenging to perform. The purpose of this study was to analyze the feasibility of anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for the treatment of GCDH.
Methods
GCDH was defined as a herniated intervertebral disc that accounted for more than 50% of the spinal canal. Patient demographic and imaging data, clinical results, and perioperative complications were analyzed retrospectively. All patients were treated with ACDF.
Results
A total of 23 patients were included in the study; none had spinal cord or vertebral artery injury. Spinal cord recovery pulsation was observed under a microscope in all cases. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging showed complete decompression of the spinal cord and no residual intervertebral disc. The patients were followed up for 12 to 18 months. The average visual analogue scale score and Oswestry Disability Index decreased from 8.6 ± 0.5 and 86.0 ± 2.7% to 2.2 ± 0.2 and 26.7 ± 2.0%, respectively, three days after surgery. The average Japanese Orthopedic Association score increased from 6.9 ± 2.1 to 13.9 ± 1.1. The cervical spinal cord function improvement rate was 69.3%. No neurological complications after surgery were observed.
Conclusion
This study shows that ACDF is feasible for the treatment of GCDH disease. The results indicate that this approach can be used to safely remove herniated disc fragments, effectively relieve compression of the spinal cord, and improve neurological function.
WITHDRAWN: Serum biomarkers of liver fibrosis identify changes in striatal metabolite levels
Authors: Zahr Natalie , Sullivan Edith , Pfefferbaum Adolf
Published: March 2023

1H-magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) conducted in cirrhosis shows consistent CNS changes such as high levels of the combined resonances (Glx) of glutamate (Glu) + glutamine (Gln) and low levels of choline-containing compounds (Cho) and myo-Inositol (mI) relative to total creatine (tCr). Studies of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, however, note higher than control levels of tCr, Cho, and mI. Here, serum markers of liver fibrosis were evaluated to determine whether they would discriminate neurometabolites in striatum, cerebellum, and pons. An aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index (APRI)>0.7 identified liver fibrosis in 9.0% (n=13) of the cohort; a fibrosis score (FIB4)>1.5 identified liver fibrosis in 32.4% (n=34) of the population. Those with APRI>0.7 had higher levels of striatal tCr (p=.001) and Cho (p=.0003). Similarly, those with FIB>1.5 had higher levels of striatal Cho (p=.01). A multiple regression including the variables APRI>0.7 and HCV explained 16.5% of the variance in striatal Cho and was driven by the APRI. Likewise, the FIB4 relative to HCV explained more of the variance in striatal Cho. Higher striatal Cho levels showed a positive relationship with pallidal signal intensities (r=.18, p=.04). Further, higher pallidal T1-signals were associated with greater standing balance instability with eyes closed (r=-.22, p=.008). Together, these results suggest that elevations in striatal Cho and basal ganglia T1-signal intensities are related to presence of liver fibrosis with functional consequences.
A significant reduction in the cost of the iron electrodes-based electrocoagulation process with higher tetracycline removal performances when addressed by a time-integrated performance index
Authors: Espinoza-Quiñones Fernando Rodolfo , Módenes Aparecido Nivaldo , Valençola William Vitor Rodrigues , Dall’Oglio Isabella Cristina , Obregón Phallcha Luízar , Romani Maurício
Published: March 2023

This work used a time-integrated performance index to address the low cost of the Electrocoagulation process to strengthen its tetracycline removal performance significantly. A reasonable control of the time-depending tetracycline removal efficiency of the electrocoagulation process was searched by choosing a better combination of the electrode material and electrolyte species types for getting a stabilization condition of the total electric voltage. The response surface methodology was included to address, compare and rescue the best results of the time-integrated performance index. The electrolyte type, pH of the aqueous media, electric conductivity, and electric voltage were assessed to better respond to the performance of tetracycline removal. In this regard, an iron-based electrocoagulation reactor was operated over a range of 40 to 67 A m-2 of electric current density supported by 5 to 10 mS cm-1 electric conductivity values. To increase the electrical conductivity, four electrolytes (Cr3+, Zn2+, Ca2+, and K+) were added separately to tetracycline synthetic solutions. The best performance was obtained by Ca2+ electrolytes stabilizing the total electric voltage due to maintaining a constant electric conductivity and pH buffering at the alkaline region. From a Box-Behnken experimental design, a 40 A m-2 electric current density allowed getting the maximal time-integrated performance index value over 30 min time, removing above 97% tetracycline with minimal electric power consumption.
Refinement of Parallel Algorithms down to LLVM applied to practically efficient parallel sorting
Authors: Lammich Peter
Published: March 2023

We present a stepwise refinement approach to develop verified parallel algorithms, down to efficient LLVM code. The resulting algorithms' performance is competitive with their counterparts implemented in C/C++. Our approach is backwards compatible with the Isabelle Refinement Framework, such that existing sequential formalizations can easily be adapted or re-used. As case study, we verify a parallel quicksort algorithm that is competitive to unverified state-of-the-art algorithms.
Flow patterns around confined low-aspect-ratio obstacles
Authors: Hajimirzaie Seyed , Buchholz James
Published: March 2023

An experimental study was conducted on the wakes around three different obstacles confined between two parallel walls: semi-ellipsoids with the major axes of the base ellipses aligned in the streamwise and transverse directions, and a sphere. The Reynolds number was 1.78 × 104 based on ellipsoid height, H, and sphere diameter, D. The study was performed using thermal anemom-etry and two-dimensional digital particle image velocimetry. Common to each of these geometries is a convex surface of the obstacle intersecting the top and/or bottom walls, which was shown to result in a wall jet in the vicinity of the junction. Large streamwise counter-rotating vortex structures were found to be a robust feature of the wakes, which are referred to as lobes, due to their resemblance to previously coined lobe structures identified in the wake of a deeply-submerged sphere. Inner lobe structures, of opposite sense to the primary lobes, were also observed in all cases, and it is proposed that the primary and inner lobe structures are formed by the wall jet deforming vorticity shed by the obstacle into a hairpin-like loop. Wavelet analysis of velocity time series on both sides of the wake revealed approximately antisymmetric vortex shedding in the ellipsoid wakes; however, intermittent in-phase shedding was observed in the wake of the sphere. Spectral analyses confirmed the approximate ReDm dependence of the Kelvin-Helmholtz (KH) instability frequency fKH with values of m varying between 0.46 and 0.49. This study showed that the shape of the obstacle junction (convex vs. flat) plays an important role in the behavior of the wake.
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy With or Without Transarterial Chemoembolization Versus Transarterial Chemoembolization Alone in Early-Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Dumago Mark P. , Agas Ryan Anthony F. , Jainar Carl Jay E. , Yap Eugene T. , Co Lester Bryan A. , Ortin Teresa T. Sy
Published: March 2023

Purpose
This study aims to review the current evidence on the utility of stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), with or without transarterial chemoembolization (TACE), for early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (ESHCC) patients not amenable to standard curative treatment options.
Methods
Literature search was conducted using PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Comparative studies reporting oncologic outcomes were included in the review.
Results
Four studies (one prospective cohort, three retrospective studies) compared SBRT versus TACE. Pooled analysis showed an overall survival (OS) benefit after three years (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.17–2.39, p = 0.005) which persisted in the 5-year data (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.06–2.39, p = 0.02) in favor of SBRT. Recurrence-free survival benefit with SBRT was also seen at three years (OR 2.06, 95% CI 1.03–4.11, p = 0.04) which continued after five years (OR 2.35, 95% CI 1.47–3.75, p = 0.0004). Two retrospective studies compared TACE followed by SBRT (TACE + SBRT) versus TACE alone. Pooled analysis showed significantly improved 3-year OS (OR 5.47; 95% CI 2.47–12.11, p < 0.0001) and local control (LC) (OR: 21.05; 95% CI 5.01–88.39, p = < 0.0001) in favor of the TACE + SBRT group. A phase III study showed significantly improved LC and progression-free survival with SBRT after failed TACE/TAE versus further TACE/TAE.
Conclusions
In ESHCC patients not amenable to established SOC, SBRT alone or the combination of TACE + SBRT appears to be more effective than TACE alone. SBRT after TACE/TAE failure also appears to be superior to further TACE/TAE based on a phase III trial. Larger prospective studies are warranted to further define the role of SBRT and TACE for ESHCC.
Impact of 18F FDG PET/CT on management of incidental gallbladder carcinoma
Authors: Singh Man Mohan , Verma Shashwat , Kakkar Lavish , Thakur Priyamedha Bose , Deswal Satyawati
Published: March 2023

Purpose: Incidental gallbladder carcinoma (IGBC) is identified after cholecystectomy being performed for a presumed benign disease and histopathology turns out as malignant disease. For optimal management planning, it is crucial to know the actual disease status. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography/ Computed Tomography (FDG PET/CT) provides local, regional as well as distant disease i.e. restaging and identifying true burden of disease for optimal treatment planning.
The aim of this study was to restage the IGBC patients on 18F FDG PET/CT and find out any change in treatment plan.
Methods:
This retrospective descriptive study was performed between November 2021 to February 2023. All PET/CT scans were analyzed which came for restaging in IGBC.
Results:
PET/CT was performed at a median time of 9 weeks (range 6 to 12 weeks) from the date of surgery. This study included 17 patients (6 male and 11 female), with a median age of 55 years (range 38 to 76 years). From total of 17 PET/CT scans, 10 (58.8%) patients were positive and 7 (41.1%) patients were negative on PET/CT. Amongst the PET/CT positive patients, disease pattern was seen in the form of local/ residual disease/ liver infiltration, regional lymph nodes and distant metastases. Among the 17 patients, treatment plan in 5 patients (having PET/CT negative) was changed from surgical intervention to no treatment, and in 2 patients (having PET/CT positive), treatment plan was changed to Chemotherapy i.e. total 7 (5+2, 41% of total 17 patients) patients’ treatment plans were changed. By reducing the number of patients undergoing re-resection, there is improvement in overall survival and it reduces the burden on already overburdened health infra-structure especially in developing countries like India where incident is high.
Conclusion:
PET/CT provides the actual stage of IGBC. It changes treatment plan and reduces the number of patients undergoing re-resection, thus improving overall survival. It also decreases burden on overburdened health infrastructure.
Water Quality Analysis in relation to biological, hydrogeochemical factors with spring discharge, population, and land use pattern in the Western Himalayan region in India
Authors: Kothari Vinod , Vij Suman , Gupta Neha , balomajumder Chandraji , Pant Nikhalesh , Bamola Vargish , Rana Virender
Published: March 2023

Drying of springs, depletion of groundwater resources and the continued decline of groundwater quality is a cause of concern in most parts of the western Himalayas. A significant increase in microbial contamination is the main parameter to deteriorate the water quality of spring water in hilly terrain. This study is based on hydrogeochemical and biological parameters assessment in three blocks, Jaunpur, Chamba, and Thauldhar of the Tehri Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. A total of 57 samples of spring water were considered from 46 villages, distributed in three clusters and Water Quality Index (WQI) was calculated for further analysis. The study showed the varying microbial population, and nitrate concentration concerning the land use pattern, spring discharge and rainfall. The factor analysis is applied to identify possible indicators for delineating the domestic and agricultural contaminants in the study area and to understand the spatial distribution of hydrogeochemical factors in the region. Various statistical tools such as ANOVA and Pearson correlation were applied to establish the association of increased spring discharge with nitrate, faecal coliform(FC), total coliform (TC), TDS, Hardness and Alkalinity. The study inferred two main components which are responsible for deteriorating water quality one bio-chemical (consist microbial concentration & nitrate content from manure) and another chemical component (TDS, Hardness, and alkalinity mainly due to rock weathering) and the situation is more enhanced in monsoon season in some study areas and decreased as monsoon subside.
WITHDRAWN: On Computation of Entropy Measures and Heat of Formation for Sodium Oxide Via Statistical models
Authors: Chen Jiawei , Siddiqui Muhammad Kamran , Javed Sana , Khalid Sadia , Hussain Mazhar , Eldin Sayed M
Published: March 2023

The chemical graph theory is a new branch of applied chemistry in which we discuss the relationships between atoms and bonds and their chemical activities with the help of different combinatorial tools. A topological index is a numerical quantity that relates the thermodynamical properties of a chemical structure to its corresponding chemical graph. In this paper, we discuss the physical measures including heat of formation and entropy based on the topological properties of chemical graph of Sodium oxide. Moreover, relations between the topological indices and thermodynamical properties of Sodium oxide have been developed in the form of mathematical equations by applying different curve fitting techniques using MATLAB software. These methods have been selected on the basis of statistical tests including mean squared error, sum of squared error or $R^2$-test.
PCMeans: Community Detection using LocalPagerank, Clustering, and K-Means
Authors: Louafi Wafa , Titouna Faiza
Published: March 2023

With the rise of social networks, the task of community detection in networks has become increasingly difficult in recent years. In this study, weintroduce a novel approach, named PCMeans, which combines PageRank, hierarchical clustering, and K-means algorithms to tackle this issue.Our technique employs local PageRank to identify the most influential nodes, followed by a hierarchical clustering strategy that determinesthe optimal number of clusters, and ultimately applies K-means learning to swiftly converge to the final community structure. PCMeansis an unsupervised method that is easy to implement, efficient, andsimple, and it addresses three common problems, including the random selection of the initial central node, specification of the number ofclasses K, and slow convergence. Our experimental findings show thatPCMeans can efficiently identify communities and outperforms otherrecent approaches on both real networks and synthetic benchmarks.
Trace Elemental and Heavy Metal levels in frequently consumed local Vegetables of three Chronic Kidney Disease prevalent Villages
Authors: Murthy G. Narayana , Yadav P. Balarama Swamy , Yadav P Balarama Swamy
Published: March 2023

The present study reports the Trace Elemental and Heavy Metal (24 Elements) levels in six (Capsicum frutescence L., Carica papaya L., Momordica charantia L., Moringa oliefera Lam., Musa Sapientum L., and Solanum melongena L.) Local and frequently consumed vegetables from three locations which are severely affected Villages by Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in Kaviti Mandal, in Uddanam area of Srikakulam district. The samples are collected from these three Villages and are subjected to ICP-MS analysis. To test a group of 24 Elements viz., Li, Be, Al, Sc, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, As, Se, Rb, Sr, Ag, Cd, Cs, Ba, TI, Rb, and U for their levels, the obtained levels of each Element is compared with the WHO/FAO permissible values. In these 24 Elements, as per FAO/WHO standards 16 Elements shows severe affect on kidneys and the remaining 8 (Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Se, Sr, and TI) cause other health problems when they are in high concentration[1-5]. The results reveal that Ba is in high concentration (2.51 times) in all the tested samples and Pb is in high concentration (1.28 times) in 11 samples, Ag and Fe are in one sample each. Among the three locations highest Ba concentration is observed in S1 (Capsicum) of L2 followed by S5 (Musa) and S1 (Capsicum) of L1. The highest Pb concentration is present in S1 (Capsicum) of L3 followed by S1 (Capsicum) of L2. The results reveal that out of the six vegetables tested, Capsicum showed high concentrations of Ba and Pb. The non-uniformity of levels of Trace Elements and Heavy Metals with regard to location and samples may be due to soil and ground water.
Overlying strata movement and stress evolution under multiple coal seam mining: insights from physical modelling
Authors: YANG Yi , LI Yingchun , WANG Lujun , WU Yang
Published: March 2023

Extensive studies have been conducted on the movement of overlying strata when a single coal seam is mined. However, structural characteristics and associated stress field variation of the overlying strata over multiple coal seam mining remain unclear. Here we performed physical modelling experiments analogous to No.42108 working face of Buertai coal mine, Shendong coalfield, where No.22 coal seam (2.9m thickness) was mined first, preceding No.42 upper coal seam (6.1m thickness) with an inter-coal-seam distance of 72.8m. We employed DIC (digital image correlation) measurement and systematically-laid pressure cells to visualize the overlying strata movement and monitor stress field variations over multiple coal seam mining. We found that the stress of the inter-coal-seam strata increased significantly in the late mining stage of No.22 coal seam due to the strata collapse, and culminated after compaction of the caved blocks. The inter-coal-seam strata stress gradually decreased over mining of No.42 upper coal seam and arrived at zero after the inter-coal-seam strata collapsed. The mining of No.42 upper coal seam aggravated the roof settlement of No.22 coal seam; and the floor stress was noticeably lower than that of No.22 coal seam due to the pressure-relief caused by the former mining activity. Our physical modelling findings advanced our understanding on structural characteristics and stress evolutions of overlying strata over multiple coal seam mining and offered guidance for prediction and mitigation of strata movement associated disasters in underground coal mining with geomechanical and mining conditions similar to those of Buertai coal mine.
Comparison of salivary cortisol levels between women with functional hypothalamic amenorrhea and healthy women: A pilot study
Authors: Koukoubanis Konstantinos , Stefanaki Katerina , Karagiannakis Dimitrios S , Kalampalikis Andreas , Michala Lina
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea (FHA) has been associated with excessive-chronic stress, eating disorders and weight loss. A common feature is the increased serum cortisol, but its measurement has many limitations. Currently, salivary cortisol (SC) has been proposed as a more sensitive and adequate index.

Aim

To investigate the SC alterations through a 24-hour period and the possible correlation with the severity of stress in women with FHA.

Methods

Between July 2019 and March 2021, 12 FHA women and 12 healthy controls of comparable age were included. Psychological, eating and physical abnormalities were evaluated by applying equivalent validated self-questionnaires.

Results

No significant differences were found between FHA women and healthy individuals with respect to morning (8:00 am) serum cortisol and ACTH (522.5±155.3 vs 443.1±138.4; p=0.23 and 37±47.7 vs 17.4±10.2;p=0.18 respectively). Women with FHA had statistically significant higher morning SC compared to control subjects (21.81±5.63 nmol/l vs 12.76±3.64 nmol/l;p<0.0001), while no significant differences were found regarding the afternoon (4:00 pm) and midnight (12:00 am) SC. A significant positive correlation was found between morning SC and morning serum cortisol (r=0.532,p=0.007), as well as with EAT-26 (r=0.527,p=0.008) and HADS-Anxiety score (r=0.471,p=0.02). Additionally, a significant negative correlation between morning SC and BMI was observed (r=-0.53, p=0.009).

Conclusion

Compared to serum cortisol, SC seems to express better the hypercortisolemic state of women with FHA and correlates well with the underlying contributing factors. Larger studies are needed in order to confirm these results and validate the optimal SC cut-off value associated with the development of FHA.
Application of Failure Mode Effect Analysis (FMEA) in the traditional medicine Industry: A Case study on Spirulina Capsule Production
Authors: Rustandi Tedi , Andri Devid , Hayati Fakhriah
Published: March 2023

Spirulina powder is used as a raw material by many traditional medicine industries in Indonesia. Spirulina powder produced in capsule preparations generally has indications for maintaining the immune system. Risk control through quality risk management has been required by the BPOM of the Republic of Indonesia as a consumer security guarantee. The method used to control risk is FMEA combined with fishbone analysis. This research produces several potential risks in the process stages until Spirulina powder is finished. Processes that potentially pose a risk and need to be controlled include receiving raw materials, storing raw materials, mixing, filling, and finishing good storage. The recommended controls to reduce risk are environmental control, machine, equipment, in-process control, and verification of the raw materials' correctness
Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats
Authors: Kahwa Ivan
Published: March 2023

Background
Species in genus Vernonia (Asteraceae) are traditionally used in the management of
different ailments for instance the leaves in both fresh and dry forms have been used in
dressing wounds. Anecdotal reports show that ash of Vernonia amygdalina (V.
amygdalina) has been utilised in the treatment of wounds, however there are no
scientific reports to substantiate this claim. Thus, the present study focused on
comparing the wound-healing activity of its leaf and leaf ash extracts.
Methods
In this study, the wound healing activity of V. amygdalina leaf was carried out in Wistar
Albino rats in an excision wound model using its aqueous extract (AE), and leaf ash
(LA) at concentrations of 1%, 2% and 3% (w/v). Mupirocin ointment and distilled water
were used as positive and negative controls respectively. The wound diameter was
measured every 3 days from day 1 to day 22 and the results were used to calculate the
percentage of wound reduction in all groups.
Results
Significant wound healing activity was observed in all groups except 3% (w/v) AE,
against the negative control group (p<0.05). Group 2 (1% AE), group 5 (1% LA), and
group 6 (2% LA) showed faster wound healing than the positive control (p<0.05). Leaf
ash was shown to have the best wound healing activity, and its lower concentrations
worked better than the category of the same concentrations in aqueous extracts.
Conclusions
Our findings have for the first time confirmed the traditional claim of using V.
amygdalina ash in the treatment of topical wounds.
Inequality of opportunities and beliefs about economic outcomes in the Western Balkans
Authors: Drishti Elvisa , Mehmetaj Nevila , Imami Drini , Zhllima Edvin
Published: March 2023

An egalitarian society is one that incentivises individuals to use their resources in order to be improve their economic outcomes and achieve social integration. The objective of this paper is to analyse Inequality of Opportunity (IOp), a measure of deprivation which counts for differences in economic outcomes, as well as estimate its effects. The research findings show that IOp is positively associated with statements on beliefs about the unfair distribution of outcomes in the sense of a successful life and towards the most important factors of finding a job at present. On the other hand, higher levels institutional trust reverse the effect of IOp. There are additional positive impacts in terms of such beliefs for those whose access to primary goods is limited due to disfavourable initial conditions at birth (being born in a rural area and being a female),who perceive themselves as belonging to a lower social class and those who have had positive experiences from their interaction with institutions. Findings are especially important in the context of countries with weak institutions and democracy, such as the case of Western Balkans (focus of this paper) and urge for a strengthening of institutions which regulate and support the citizens’ integration into society.
Interpolation numerical calculus for analytic functions by using algebraic polynomials
Authors: Fukuchi Tsugio
Published: March 2023

The finite difference method is a powerful method for numerical analysis of equilibrium and steady states of physical phenomena. In the traditional finite difference method, second-order accuracy differences have been used. From an engineering point of view, this approach is often regarded as having sufficient accuracy. However, much research has been done on increasing the accuracy of this numerical analysis. Virtual error zero (VE0)calculations are defined as calculations that can perform numerical calculations with exact solutions for 15 significant digits under double-precision calculations. VE0 calculation is considered to be the ultimate goal of high-accuracy numerical analysis. This paper is written from the viewpoint that such numerical calculations have inherent value. VE0 calculations are always obtained as long as we deal with functions having no singularities in the computational domain for ordinary differential equations as boundary value problems. Furthermore, VE0 calculation is possible even for ordinary differential equations as initial value problems. In both numerical analyses, algebraic polynomials commonly play an important role. This paper comprehensively examines the important role that algebraic polynomials play in increasing the accuracy of numerical calculations in various fields of numerical analysis, such as numerical differentiation, numerical integration, and numerical analysis of integral and integrodifferential equations.
Toward the digital economy: Mobile payment affecting sustainable consumption behavior
Authors: Yuan Jing , Jiang Songyu , Mary Joy Dela Cruz Bethzaida
Published: March 2023

Mobile payment has a pronounced impact on the consumption mode of various industries and provides new clues for sustainable consumption. This study aims to explore the role of perceived risk and perceived technology on sustainable consumption intention and behavior. Moreover, it proposes the structural equation model of mobile payment for sustainable consumption behavior. 574 participants from Chinese higher education institutions filled in the questionnaire. The bootstrapping method was used to solve the problem of mediating factors. Amos 26.0 helped to construct structural equation models. The study determined the negative effect of the perceived mobile payment risk on the perceived mobile payment usefulness, perceived mobile payment ease of use, and sustainable consumption intention. Moreover, the three variables have a particular buffer in the relationship between perceived mobile payment risk and sustainable consumption behavior. Furthermore, perceived mobile payment usefulness positively impacts sustainable consumption intention, and they have a chain-mediated effect on the relationship between perceived mobile payment risk and sustainable consumption behavior. The same effect also occurs in the relationship between perceived mobile payment ease of use and sustainable consumption intention.
Sustaining small and medium-sized enterprises through financial awareness, access to digital finance in South Africa
Authors: Sthembiso Msomi Thabiso , Muzombo Kandolo Ka
Published: March 2023

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have several critical challenges that threaten their capacity to survive and thrive. However, access and awareness to digital platform is fundamental to moderate the financial costs and develop financial productivity and sustain SMEs financially. Considering this, the purpose of this study is to get empirical information on the level of management awareness and usage of digital platforms in SMEs in South Africa. The methodological framework included a quantitative research strategy and positivist paradigm. Purposive sampling was utilized to collect data from 321 out of 700 SMEs owners, and the Cochran formula was used to explain the sample size. There were 321 surveys sent out, and 304 were filled out and returned (95% response rate). Descriptive analysis, Pearson’s correlation, and regression analyses from the Statistical Package for Social Sciences were used. The results of Pearson’s correlation coefficient establish a statistically significant relationship between access to digital finances and SME Sustainability (r = 0.334), as well as a statistically significant relationship between financial awareness and SME Sustainability (r = 0.549). The findings alert SMEs managers of the need to improve their digital platforms awareness in order to meet current financial demands and make better informed financial choices to improve company success. The results explain the advantages of trading using many digital platforms available in the country to improve the performance of their enterprises.
Building Competitive Advantage Through Halal Assurance System and Employee Performance
Authors: Fauzi Muchammad , Mujaddid Ade Yusuf
Published: March 2023

By general destination from research this u for test and find out by real about influence implementation of HAS on employee performance and excellence Compete in Industrial Fast food in Central Java .Study  this useful approach quantitative  with the number of samples is 101 respondents. With purposive sampling technique, analyzed use   descriptive and inferential  with analysis technique with using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) which is operated through the AMOS program. The results of this study are existence influence real that SJH will could explain happening enhancement performance employees. Show existence influence real that performance employee will could explain happening enhancement superiority compete. Show no existence influence real that SJH will could explain happening enhancement superiority compete. Sshow that in the industry food fast Halal certified fast food. Implementation of HAS in the production process capable create employees who produce high performance and performance employee proven take effect positive significant to superiority compete. That is, performance employee will also cause happening superiority compete.
The Role of Digital Banking Industry Towards Consumer Behavior During The Covid 19
Authors: Aniqoh Nur Aini Fitriya Ardiani , Nihayah Ana Zahrotun , Amalia Farah
Published: March 2023

Covid 19 has had an impact on various changes, especially with the revolution towards a digital base, one of which is the banking system. This study aims to analyze the role of the digital banking industry in consumer behavior during Covid 19. The general objective of this research is to assist the government in determining appropriate policies regarding the digital banking industry. Referring to the formulation of the problem, this research uses a qualitative descriptive approach. Descriptive method is a method that describes an objective event or certain events based on visible or proper facts which are then accompanied by efforts to make general conclusions based on these historical facts. The Covid 19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the Indonesian economy due to a policy implemented by the government which prohibits people from gathering in large numbers. This policy makes people get used to utilizing various financial technologies to carry out their lives. Therefore, banks must accelerate the use of digital banking services. The implementation of digital banking can accelerate public acceptance of digital transformation. The banking industry needs to take advantage of the conditions of the Covid-19 pandemic to accelerate digital investment and further increase efficiency. Basically, banking has been carrying out digital innovations for a long time, including in the development of mobile banking and a number of other applications and platforms. This research will provide policy benefits in strengthening government institutions, especially the banking industry to control the implementation of digital banking in Indonesia so that it has a positive impact on consumer behavior.
Bioeconomy as One of the Ways To Sustainable Development of Russian Regions
Authors: Titova E. S. , Shishkin S. S. , Shtykhno D. A.
Published: March 2023

Bioeconomy is considered as a special type of activity and economic system, which is based on the science achievements, primarily related to biology, as well as chemistry, bioengineering, computer science, ecology, and even sociology. This activity is actively carried out in dozens of countries where national bioeconomy development programs have been formed. The existing programs provide, first of all, for the set of works implementation performed with the help of biotechnologies for the goods (bioproducts) based on natural bioresources production, including industrial, agricultural and household waste processing. As a result, global and regional bioproducts markets are being formed, providing consumers with new materials, as well as intangible benefits and services. The bioeconomy state analysis in several leading countries, as well as in the Russian Federation, indicates the expediency of using a regional approach to bioeconomy development, as well as advance training of relevant personnel. To achieve these goals, it is proposed to use several principles arising from the essence of the bioeconomy activity organization.
Changes in Leptin to Adiponectin Ratio After Antiretroviral Therapy: A
Pilot Observational Study
Authors: Hikasa Shinichi , Shimabukuro Shota , Hideta Kyoko , Higasa Satoshi , Sawada Akihiro , Tokugawa Tazuko , Tanaka Kuniyoshi , Yanai Mina , Kimura Takeshi
Published: March 2023

Aim:

Weight gain with the use of dolutegravir, bictegravir, and tenofovir alafenamide for
antiretroviral therapy has been reported. However, studies on changes in body composition and the
leptin/adiponectin ratio after antiretroviral therapy initiation are limited. These factors are important
because they can be used as indicators of metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease risk.

Introduction:

This study aimed to investigate the changes in waist circumference, body composition,
and adipokine levels after the initiation of antiretroviral therapy consisting of dolutegravir, bictegravir,
and tenofovir alafenamide and evaluate the relationships between these parameters in Japanese
patients living with human immunodeficiency virus.

Methods:

This is a single-center, prospective, observational study. Waist circumference, body composition,
and adipokine levels were measured at baseline and 12 months after antiretroviral therapy
initiation in antiretroviral therapy-naive Japanese patients living with human immunodeficiency virus.
Body composition was determined by bioelectrical impedance analysis.

Results:

We included 11 patients (10 bictegravir/TAF/emtricitabine, 1 dolutegravir/lamivudine) in
this study. The results showed no significant changes in waist circumference and body composition
among the patients. The leptin/adiponectin ratio and serum leptin levels significantly increased after
antiretroviral therapy initiation. Changes in waist circumference, fat mass, and visceral fat area
showed a strong positive correlation.

Conclusion:

The leptin/adiponectin ratio increased following antiretroviral therapy initiation. The
waist circumference measurement can be a simple, inexpensive, and useful method to identify changes
in fat mass and visceral fat area after initiation of antiretroviral therapy.