bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective Doses and Excess Lifetime Cancer Risks from Absorbed Dose Rates Measured in Facilities of Two Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria
Authors: Olowookere C. J. , Jibiri N. N. , Oyekunle E. O. , Fatukasi J. , Osho E. S. , Raheem A. A. , Adejumo D. B. , Awolola T. A.
Published: November 2022

This study was aimed at examining the radiation absorbed dose rate, annual effective doses and excess lifetime cancer risks of halls of residence, Radiotherapy Unit and Radiology Department of UI, UCH and UNIMEDTH respectively. Results of measurements show that the mean absorbed dose rate for male and female hall are 0.33 ± 0.05476 and 0.17 ± 0.05074 µSv h-1 respectively. The mean overall absorbed dose rates calculated for facilities studied are 0.269 ± 0.0992 µSv h-1, 0.121 ± 0.036 µSv h-1 and 0.123 ± 0.00931 µSv h-1 in UI, UCH and UNIMEDTH respectively. The mean annual effective doses recorded in both male and female halls in University of Ibadan ranges between 0.71 mSv y-1 and 2.67 mSv y-1. The mean annual effective doses obtained from the facility of University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital, Ondo (UNIMEDTH) ranges between 0.17 and 0.44 mSv y-1. In addition, the mean annual effective doses calculated from the measured absorbed dose rate in Radiotherapy Department of University College Hospital, Ibadan ranges between 0.20 and 1.22 mSv y-1. As regards ELCRs, the mean values  determined in various facilities examined are 6.07 x 10-3 (Male Halls, UI), 3.27 x 10-3 (Female Halls, UI), 0.57 x 10-3 (UNIMEDTH- NE), 0.99 x 10-3 (UNIMEDTH- EX), 0.65 x x 10-3 (Teletherapy, UCH) and 0.57 x 10-3 (Brachytherapy, UCH).The mean ELCRs of both halls examined are higher than the world average of 1.45 x 10-3 and the standard value of 0.29 x 10-3 by at least a factor of 1.97 units.
Modelling the Transmission Dynamics of COVID-19 Incorporating public Enlightenment Campaign
Authors: Ashezua T. T. , Aondona L. C. , Amaonyeiro A. U.
Published: November 2022

A mathematical model to study the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 incorporating public enlightenment campaign as control is presented. The effective reproduction number (Rc) was computed using the next generation method. Using the Lyapunov method, the global stability of the disease-free equilibrium was found to be globally asymptotically stable whenever (Rc ≤ 1)   . Sensitivity analysis was conducted on the effective reproduction number in order to determine parameters of the model that are most sensitive and targeted by way of intervention strategies. Numerical simulations of the COVID-19 model shows that if  of both treatment and public enlightenment campaign is achieved, the pandemic will be greatly controlled and subsequently eradicated in the population.
Shea (Vitellaria paradoxa) Pulp Juice Production and Quality Evaluation via Proximate and Mineral Composition Analyses
Authors: Kolo S. I. , Dadi-Mamud N. J. , Aliyu-Paiko M. , Jubril B.
Published: November 2022

Shea trees (Vitellaria paradoxa) are common in African countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Uganda, Sudan, and others. When fully ripe, the Shea tree's green fruit turns yellow. The tree is well-known and valued for its versatility. Its entire composition is useful in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries. Among its applications is the production of butter from the nuts, while the rest of the fruit is left to rot or discarded. This study focuses on using other parts of the fruit to create a new product, reduce waste, and expand the Shea value chain. Three formulations of Shea fruit juice were created. The juice were evaluated for nutritional, physicochemical, and mineral compositions. The nutritional composition revealed a high moisture content that ranged from 84.39 to 93.01%, high carbohydrate and caloric values, ranging from 5.84 to 8.96% and 33.51 to 67.31%, respectively. It also had a high concentration of vitamin C (16.45 - 38.99 percent). The mineral composition was observed to increase as the Shea pulp percentage increased. Magnesium was observed to be higher in sample C (36.71±0.24) while sample A recorded a lower magnesium content (18.04±0.06). Calcium was also found to be present in high concentrations (30.07 - 50.64 %). The juice's potassium content ranged from 58.6 - 50.54% in sample C to 24.6 - 60.16% in sample A. The physicochemical analysis revealed a close range of p H values (5.37 - 6.06 %) between the samples and the control, making the juice less susceptible to spoilage. Overall, the results presented a high-quality juice that could compete favorably in the market with other fruit juices.
Decadal Assessment and Distribution of Rainfall Anomaly Index (1991 – 2020) for Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Ofordu C. S. , Onilude Q. A. , Adedoyin E. D. , Mba N. C. , Adeoti O. O. , Osundun S. O. , Kilasho A. R.
Published: November 2022

This study was designed to provide valuable insight into the temporal patterns of rainfall in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria using rainfall data from 1991 – 2020 (30 years) collected from Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), airport station, Benin City. The data were assessed based on 10 years interval (decade) identified as decadal A (1991-2000), decadal B (2001-2010) and decadal C (2011-2020). The data was analysed descriptively using charts and graphs. Also, Rainfall Anomaly Index (RAI) was determined for each decadal. Findings from the study reveal that rainfall pattern changes significantly based on statistics for each decadal. In decadal A, rainfall usually began in the month of July to October, June to September in decadal B while May to September in decadal C with rainfall going above the annual precipitation (2679 mm) for the City. The rainfall anomaly over the city revealed that there was a composite nature in which some dry years were mixed with wet years and vice versa and this occurred in all decades. RAI revealed that decadal C recorded the highest number of years (7) of intense rainfall compared to decadal A and B. The trend for the average annual rainfall showed a significant trend based on the decade. The average annual rainfall increased with time (decade) as the trend rose from 1886.9 mm in decade A to 1890.0mm in decade B and 2078.8 mm in decade C. The year of greatest positive value was 2016 (decadal C), with an average RAI of 6.53 classified as extremely humid. Based on these findings, the study concludes that the climate in Benin City has significantly changed.
Improving cybersecurity incidents reporting in Nigeria: micro and small enterprises perspectives
Authors: Ikuero F. E. , Zeng W.
Published: November 2022

Leveraging on the provisions of the internet enhances the productivity of Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs), increases industrial growth and their contributions to national prosperity. Every cyber-attack against their businesses should be reported to the requisite incident response body through the appropriate channels for quick recovery from attack. This research examines how the MSEs in Nigeria report cybersecurity incidents. This study surveyed 100 MSEs. The outcome of the research shows that 72% of the MSEs is unaware of the channel of reporting cyber incidents and does not report cyber incidents. Participants totaling 90% believe that the Sectoral Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT) could improve on reporting of cybersecurity incidents through sensitisation. Amongst others, we recommended the Sectoral CSIRTs were to develop an Incident Report and Response Plan (IRRP) for managing cybersecurity incidents in MSEs.
Systems identification of servomechanism parameters using jellyfish, particle swarm and constraint optimization
Authors: Nyong-Bassey B. E. , Epemu A. M.
Published: November 2022

In this paper, DC servomechanism parameters were identified offline using Jellyfish, particle swarm and constraint optimization techniques in a MATLAB simulation environment with experimental data. Specifically, the unknown parameters of the servomechanism were identified using a two-step approach. Initially, the first-order transfer function of the servomechanism which is characterized by a DC gain and time constant was determined analytically using the experimental open-loop speed step response of the servo motor. Next, by iterative minimization of a fitness score derived from the root mean squared error between the experimental and simulated position response of the servomechanism of an equivalent state-space model structure, the servomechanism parameters were identified. The simulated angular position step response of the servomechanism with the particle swarm, Jellyfish and constraint optimization algorithm, showed excellent agreement with the experimental data in descending order and was consistent with the fitness score of 1.9035, 0.0083, and 0.00706 respectively.
An optimal control technique for single-phase grid-connected inverter
Authors: Ali M. H. , Sisa A. A. , Ahmed A. B.
Published: November 2022

This paper evaluates the performance of control technique based on Digital Pulse Width Modulation (DPWM) for single-phase grid-connected inverter application. Despite the importance of this synchronization technique, reports on its performance are scarce. The evaluation takes place in two simulation environments: ModelSim and MATLAB/Simulink. The performance of the technique expressed in Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of Point of Common Coupling (PCC) current of the inverter is found to be 3.62%, a very good result on the standard of IEEE-519. This encouraging performance of this technique will result in injecting more renewable energy into the grid system, resulting in a more sustainable system.
Periodic study with selected mineral elements levels of cow and goat milk samples obtained from two animal markets in Benin City and estimated daily intake of studied heavy metals
Authors: Dibie N. E. , Asuelimen P. R.
Published: November 2022

This work entailed periodic investigations of raw goat and cow milk samples collected from Eyan and Technical College Road Animal Markets in Benin City, Nigeria; for levels of Ca, Fe, Zn, Cu, Co, Cr, Cd and Pb. The collection of samples was carried out on a weekly basis for a period of four weeks. Another portion of the work was concerned with the estimation of daily intake (EDI) of the examined heavy metals through milk consumption. Determinations of the examined mineral elements were carried out in accordance with standard methods. Significantly, atomic absorption spectrophotometry using buck scientific model 210VGP atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used for Ca, Fe, Zn, Cu, Co, Cr, Cd, and Pb Levels determinations. Estimation of daily intake (EDI) of the examined heavy metals through milk consumption was by calculation. Data generated were statistically evaluated using International Business Machine (IBM) Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results indicate variations in the levels of the examined mineral elements with respect to both sampling period and location. The observed variations were statistically significant (P˂0.05). Also discernable from results, was that in the studied goat milk samples, Ca with a mean total value of 127.802mg/kg occurred highest, while Pb with a mean total value of 0.005mg/kg was the lowest occurring of the examined mineral elements. Similar trend of result was obtained for the studied cow milk samples. Results from the portion of work on the estimation of daily intake of the examined heavy metals through milk consumption, indicate that with respect to goat milk, EDI Value of 17.694μg/kg/daily consumption, obtained for Zn in males within the studied age bracket (1-5years) was the highest; while the EDI of 0.009μg/kg/daily consumption, recorded for Pb in both male and female within the studied age group bracket (17 years and above) was the lowest. Similar pattern of EDI results was obtained for the EDI values of the examined heavy metals through cow milk consumption. The occurrence of toxicologically relevant lead and cadmium in all the studied milk samples, is an indication of the need for measure that would minimize the exposure of the animals to contaminated foliage and water, to be put in place.
Analysis and remedies for factors responsible for time between overhaul: a case study of Do-228 aircraft starter generator
Authors: Bolorunduro G.A. , Mohammed A. , Uche U.E. , Ibrahim B.G. , Audu S. T.
Published: November 2022

The starter generator is used for cranking the engine and to produce electricity for the aircraft system after a sustainable speed. A review of relevant literature reveals the time between the overhaul of the Do-228 aircraft starter generator but did not go in-depth to unravel the factors responsible. A survey research method is adopted to elicit information on the factors. Raosoft sample technique calculator: a software that primarily calculates or generates the sample size of a research or survey was used to obtain the minimum sample size from the study population with the nominal rolls of the technicians as the sampling frame. The questionnaire was vetted and validated by a professional focus group discussion team. The result shows that the factors responsible for the time between overhaul of the starter generator are Environmental Factors (10%), Mechanical Factors (20%), Poor Maintenance Factors (17%), Time Due (25%), Usage/Life Cycle (16%) and Aging (12%). 75% overhaul is unscheduled. It is recommended that the overhauling of the aircraft starter generators be done at 900 as against 1000 flight hour intervals to mitigate unscheduled maintenance.
An equilibrium model of NOx emission in gas turbine combustors
Authors: Ighodaro O.O. , Ilori S.O. , Aburime E.I. , Obanor A.I.
Published: November 2022

In this study, an equilibrium model for NOx emission in gas turbine combustors was developed. The model is based on the governing thermodynamic, materials, and energy balance equations. Results obtained from the model simulation were compared with operational data from a local gas turbine power plant. There was about a 3 to 6 percent deviation for the periods considered. Consequently, the model is reliable in the design of new combustors and in assessing the pollutant emission during operations. It was established that factors that affect NOx formation include flame temperature and quantity of excess air used. Furthermore, the results revealed that the most important parameter that governs the formation of NOx is flame temperature, as the formation of NOx rises exponentially with an increase in the combustor flame temperature.
A comparative analysis of haemoglobin variants using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Okandeji A. A. , Odeyinka O. F. , Sogbesan A. A. , Ogunye N. O.
Published: November 2022

In medical sciences, to ascertain the origin of a sickness, professionals utilize their expertise and knowledge to analyze a person's symptoms and indications. These symptoms (indicators) are threshold values that health specialists use to determine the cause of the illness by comparing a specific proportion of measurements to where a healthy population would fall. Consequently, diagnostic mistakes occur as a result of inaccuracy and imprecision. This study utilizes machine learning to categorize haemoglobin variations. Specifically, the data set used in this study includes 752 complete blood count laboratory analyses of adult patients aged eighteen and above obtained from Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH). Multiple machine learning methods were utilized for classification from which five of the methods employed were examined and assessed. Comparative analysis was done using the five algorithms (K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Decision Tree (DT), Random Forest (RF), and Naive Bayes (NB)). Contrary to work done by previous researchers, it was observed that the SVM model showed the best classification accuracy of 94.7%, with an F1-score of 94.5%, precision of 94.8%, recall of 94.7%, specificity of 97.3%, and area under curve (AUC) of 99.0%. Among the other models considered, the RF model gave the least accuracy result of 87.4%. The study shows that the support vector machine algorithm outperforms the other classifiers in terms of accuracy when predicting haemoglobin variants given the haematological parameters.
Analysis of solid waste composition and its treatment potentials in University of Nigeria Enugu State, Nigeria.
Authors: Nwoke O. A. , Ime C. , Solueke M. M. , Ogwo V. , Chukwuma E.C. , Obuladike C.E. , Ugwu S.N.
Published: November 2022

The aim of the study is to determine the quantity, composition and treatment potentials of solid waste generated in University of Nigeria Nsukka campus. To achieve these, solid waste was sampled for 1 week from Nine (9) academic buildings, sixty-two (62) academic departments administrative offices, eight (8) corridors, and three (3) cafeterias giving a total of 82 waste sampling points. In total, 4821.1kg/week of waste were separated at University of Nigeria. The total quantity of solid waste at collection points were buildings (1034.9 kg/week), corridor (910.7 kg/week), cafeteria (502.5kg/week) and departmental offices (2373 kg/week). The mean quantities of waste generated at collection points were 114.99kg/week, 113.84kg/week, 167.57kg/week and 38.27kg/week for building, corridors, cafeteria and departmental offices respectively. This shows that on the average that the highest quantity of waste is generated from cafeteria. The weighted average amount of solid waste generated in University of Nigeria Nsukka Campus per sampling point is 58.79kg/week. The weighted average percentage of the waste fractions for university of Nigeria Nsukka Campus is 37.66%, 20.23%, 6.65%, 24.86%, 3.33% and 7.28% for paper, plastic, metal, organic, glass and others respectively. The waste fractions are generated in a decreasing order as follows: paper (37.66%), organic (24.86%), plastic (20.23%). metal (6.65%), others (7.28%) and glass (3.33%). The estimated waste generation rate for the university campus was 0.019kg/capita/day from the four sources analyzed based on current student population of 36000 and weekly generation of 4821.1kg. 28.35% of the waste is compostable while 64.49 % is recyclable and these sums up to 92.84% indicating that only a small proportion that is 7.16% of generated waste which can neither be composted or recycled will be diverted to landfill. Therefore, recovery of resources and recycling call for segregation of waste at the source, through providing separate waste containers for different waste types.
Comparative analysis on the performance of non-electronic and electronic initiation systems on fragmentation distribution at Gold Fields Ghana Limited-Tarkwa Gold Mine
Authors: Agyei G. , Dadzie A J.
Published: November 2022

The purpose of blasting is to reduce rock mass to acceptable sizes suitable for load and haul operations to satisfy primary crusher requirement. The crusher settings of Gold Fields Ghana Limited require that about 80 percent of every muckpile be less than the size of 240 mm to enable free flow of materials in the crusher. Initiating blast at Gold Fields Ghana Limited is done by the shock tube non-electronic (NONEL) initiation system as well as the electronic initiation system. As a result of findings from previous studies the shock tube non-electronic system is used more often while the electronic initiation system is used at sensitive areas of the mine specifically the Atuabo pit. However, no detailed current study has been carried out to determine which of these initiation systems is more efficient in terms of the cut-off sieve size of the crushing plant. This paper compares the percentage fragmentation sizes of the blasts produced by the initiations systems used at the mine to determine which of the initiation methods produces 80 percent of the muckpile being less than the size of 240 mm; keeping every parameter related to fragmentation constant. The results obtained reveal that initiating with the electronic system increases the percentage of the required sizes above the 80 percent benchmark. About 33.33% of blast initiated by the NONEL system were below the 80 percent. The achievement by the electronic initiation system could be attributed to the higher precision and accuracy of the electronic detonators.
Predicting Fragmentation Distribution of Rock Blasting at Eshiem Pit of Aliko Resources Limited, Ghana
Authors: Agyei G. , Asssua P.
Published: November 2022

This work predicts rock fragmentation distribution and assesses the performance of the Kuz-Ram, Modified Kuz-Ram and Kuznetsov Cunningham Ouchterlony (KCO) models to determine the most accurate prediction model applicable for Aliko Resource Limited (ARL). The performance assessment was done using the Root Mean Square Error and Correlation and Regression Analysis. A general trend of prediction of more fines (<16.00 mm) and boulders (>800.00 mm) was observed for all the three models. The fragmentation results showed that there was a high quantity of fines with insignificant amounts of boulders produced from the blasts. Although all the models had a high correlation coefficient, R (> 95%), the Modified-Kuz-Ram model performed best for the blasts studied. It is therefore recommended for fragmentation prediction and blast optimisation studies of the mine.
Effects of Ferro-Silicon addition, heat-treatment and plastic deformation on corrosion resistance of 6063 Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Agboola J. B. , Olawale O. A.
Published: November 2022

6063 aluminium alloy is widely used in architectural applications such as window and door frames because of its nice appearance and acceptable strength. Its major alloying elements are magnesium and silicon. Not many studies focused on the influence of plastic deformation and the alloy content on post-processing quality and corrosion resistance of the alloy have been published. Considering the influence that variation in chemical composition could have on the properties of the alloy, this work aims to investigate the effects of Ferro-Silicon addition, heat-treatment and cold rolling on post-processing quality and corrosion resistance of 6063 Aluminium Alloy. 5000 g of Aluminium 6063 alloyed with 500 g of ferrosilicon was produced. Cast samples from the alloy were homogenized at 350 ºC before cold rolling in the range of 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30% reduction. The corrosion behaviour of the produced alloy was evaluated using a potentiodynamic test in a 3.5wt % sodium chloride solution. The results show that the addition of FeSi and cold- rolling results in improved mechanical properties but has little effect on corrosion resistance. Heat-treatment has not caused significant impact in corrosion resistance and mechanical properties of the alloy.
Targeting GSK-3β enzyme by diazepino-quinolone derivatives
Authors: Swellmeen Lubna , Basheer Haneen A , Uzrail Amal , Sallam Haneen , Al-Hiari Yusuf , Alkilani Ahlam
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To synthesize a heterocyclic system containing quinolone and diazepine scaffolds as GSK-3β inhibitor.

Methods: The diazepino-quinoline derivatives were synthesized starting from quinolone nucleus in a simple chemical reaction. The in vitro GSK-3β enzyme assay and MTT assay against cancer cell lines were carried out followed by Z´ı-LYTE GSK-3β assay. Anticancer activity was determined using U-87 glioma cell line.

Results: Diazepino-quinoline derivatives were obtained in a good yield, and compound 102 exhibited significant activity against in vitro GSK-3β (IC50: 0.114 μM), and anticancer activity (IC50: 37 μM) against U-87 glioma cell line.

Conclusion: The GSK-3β enzyme is a potential target to treat different diseases, and diazepines derivatives are a successful template for inhibitors design against GSK-3β enzyme with IC50 in a micromolar range.
Establishing convergent validity of a medication literacy assessment instrument for use within the Nigerian setting
Authors: Abdu-Aguye Samirah N , Abi Ruth U , Auwal Fatima I , Shehu Aishatu , Mohammed Elijah NA
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To establish convergent validity of a previously designed medication literacy instrument for use in Nigeria.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Zaria, Kaduna State from May to August 2021, with structured instruments administered to conveniently sampled members of the public via one-on-one interviews to collect data. These instruments included a previously designed medication literacy assessment instrument and the Newest Vital Sign United Kingdom version (NVS-UK) health literacy assessment questionnaire. Data obtained was reported using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: Three hundred respondents were interviewed, majority of whom were females (51 %) and aged between 15 – 25 (76.6 %). The percentage of correct responses to the NVS-UK questions ranged from 22 to 58.3 %, while the total number of NVS-UK questions answered correctly by respondents ranged from 0 to 6 with a mean of 2.2 ± 1.7. Respondents’ NVS-UK scores were associated with their highest level of education completed (p = 0.001). The NVS-UK showed adequate internal consistency (Cronbach’s Alpha = 0.7) and validation of the developed medication literacy instrument against the NVS-UK demonstrated a Spearman’s rho correlation coefficient of 0.42.

Conclusion: The designed instrument is valid and can be used to assess medication literacy within the country.
Effect of combined application of sevoflurane and remifentanil on laparoscopic surgery, postoperative recovery time and stress response
Authors: Chen Yong , Lin Hongkai
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of application of sevoflurane and remifentanil on laparoscopic surgery, and its effect on patients’ postoperative recovery time and stress response.

Methods: Ninety patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery in Zhongshan City People's Hospital, Guangdong Province, China were selected and randomly divided into propofol group (PG) and sevoflurane group (SG), with 45 patients in each group. Patients in PG were anesthetized with combination of propofol and remifentanil, while those in SG received combination of sevoflurane and remifentanil. Patients’ heart rate (HR), stroke volume (SV) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) were tested before anesthesia induction (T1), after intubation (T2), 15 min after pneumoperitoneum (T3), and after extubation (T4), in order to evaluate the stability of vital signs in the patients.

Results: At T2, T3, and T4, HR, SV, and MAP were more stable in SG than in PG (p < 0.05). At T3 and T4, the levels of ET-1, noradrenaline (NE) and cortisol (Cor) were significantly lower in SG than in PG (p < 0.05). Furthermore, postoperative recovery time, spontaneous breathing time, time taken to open the eyes under command, and orientation recovery time were shorter in SG than in PG (p < 0.05). After awakening, SG had significantly higher Ramsay score than PG (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The combined use of sevoflurane and remifentanil for anesthesia in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery results in stable vital signs, facilitates recovery after surgery, improve quality of recovery, and reduce stress response. Therefore, the combination anesthesia merits further mechanistic and large-scale investigation before clinical application.
Effect of C-type natriuretic peptide and amiodarone in Chinese patients with arrhythmia
Authors: Li Yajie , Chun Yuhu , Dang Hongwei , Chen Kai , Wang Xia
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To compare the effect of C-type natriuretic peptide and amiodarone in Chinese patients with arrhythmia.

Method: Chinese men and women aged 18 to 65 years with premature ventricular complexes (PVCs), were administered C-type natriuretic peptide (CNP) - test group or amiodarone (study group) in ratio of 1:1 for 96 h. Patients in CNP group received infusion of synthetic human CNP (10 pmol/kg/min) for an initial 2 h, and then for 30 min every day until discharge. Patients in amiodarone group received initial dose of 1000 mg over the first 24 h. Change in PVCs from baseline was the primary efficacy endpoint. Secondary efficacy endpoint includes: change in PVCs-related symptom scores from baseline, change in ejection fraction of left ventricle (LV), end‑diastolic diameter of LV, and cardiac events as composite outcome (CCE). The effect of both treatments on hemodynamic and electrocardiography parameters, and safety were evaluated. Data from 200 patients were analyzed.

Results: The CNP showed significantly greater decrease in the number of PVCs when compared to amiodarone (p < 0.005). Moreover, CNP was superior in alleviating PVCs- related symptoms when compared to amiodarone (p < 0.005). A similar trend of favorable effect of CNP was observed for other endpoints.

Conclusion: The C-type natriuretic peptide offers significantly greater benefits of suppressing PVCs and related symptoms, and demonstrates significantly greater improvement of cardiac function and clinical outcome. Thus, CNP can be considered for further investigation as a suitable alternative in the management of ventricular arrhythmia with PVC among Chinese patients.
Analysis of molecular mechanisms of drug resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and its pharmacoeconomics
Authors: Bao Zeqing , Bao Yingyi , Qin Xiaocui , Wu Weibin , Zhang Xia
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To investigate the molecular mechanisms of drug resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in patients with pulmonary tuberculosis and its pharmacoeconomics.

Methods: Data pertaining to patients with primary tuberculosis treated in the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhaoqing Medical College, Zhaoqing, China from January 2020 to June 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Sputum specimens were collected from all eligible patients, and 151 uncontaminated specimens with good bacteriophage activity were screened.

Results: A total of 107 Mycobacterium tuberculosis strains were isolated from the 151 specimens, 31 of which strains were resistant to varying degrees to rifampicin, isoniazid, streptomycin, and ethambutol with an overall resistance of 28.97 %. There were 16 strains with rpoB mutation, 22 strains with katG mutation, and 8 strains with inhA mutation. The difference in the sputum negative rate, lesion absorption rate, and tuberculosis cavity closure rate, and total medical cost between the two group were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The incidence of adverse reactions in the FDC group was significantly lower than that in the blister pack group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The total resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in primary tuberculosis patients remains at a high level, and the development of resistance is associated with mutations in rpoB, katG, and inhA genes. FDC regimen provides more pharmacoeconomic and therapeutic benefits than blister pack regimen.
Effect of butylphthalide in patients with vascular cognitive impairment
Authors: Guo Meng , Wu Lirong
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To study the effects of butylphthalide in patients with vascular cognitive impairment.

Method: Sixty patients with vascular cognitive impairment were randomly divided into control group and butylphthalide (NBP) group (n = 30). Control group received blood pressure control, blood sugar control, and lipid-lowering therapies, while NBP group received butylphthalide capsules (200 mg, thrice daily). Treatments in both groups lasted for 14 days. Thereafter, Hasegawa Dementia Scale (HDS), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADL), and event-related potential (P300) were used to evaluate the effects of butylphthalide treatment.

Result: Following 14 days of treatment, HDS, MMSE and ADL scores of NBP group were significantly higher than those of the control group (p < 0.05). The P300 latency of NBP group was shorter than that of control group, while P300 amplitude was higher than that of control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Butylphthalide treatment achieves higher scores of HDS, MMSE and ADL scores, but shorter P300 latency. These results provided good evidence of the effectiveness of butylphthalide therapy in the management of vascular cognitive impairment. However, further clinical trials are recommended prior to application in clinical practice.
Comparison of efficacy and safety profiles of rivaroxaban and aspirin versus clopidogrel and aspirin in the prevention of atherosclerotic events in Chinese dyslipidemic patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Tu Rongzu , Lu Zhaie
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To compare the efficacy and safety profiles of rivaroxaban (R) + aspirin (A) and clopidogrel (C) + aspirin (A) in the prevention of atherosclerotic events in Chinese dyslipidemic patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods: Coronary artery disease patients were given either R (10 mg daily) + A (100 mg daily) or C (75 mg daily) plus A (100 mg daily), with 105 subjects in each group. Each patient was followed up for 30 months. The following clinical outcomes (as aspects of primary endpoints) were assessed: percentge of patients with incidence of atherosclerotic events, and deaths due to any cause/cardiovascular causes. Hazard ratios and safety were also determined.

Results: A total of 210 enrolled patients completed the study. Compared to C + A group, patients treated with R + A had slightly lower incidence of atherosclerotic events (33.2 vs 32.6 %, p > 0.05) and lower death rate due to any cause/cardiovascular causes (3.1 vs 2 %, p > 0.05). Patients treated with R + A had significantly greater incidence of bleeding (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The R + A treatment is more effective than C + A treatment in the prevention of atherosclerotic events, although this was not statistically significant different. The incidence of bleeding are significantly higher in R + A group than in C + A group.
Tanshinone IIA inhibits exosome-induced cardiomyocyte pyroptosis through NLRP3/caspase 1 pathway
Authors: Xu Shun , Wang Menghan , Chen Yu , Shen Zaoli , Jia Qing , Wang Aili
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of Salvia miltiorrhiza, a traditional Chinese medicinal plant, on exosome-induced cardiomyocyte pyroptosis.

Methods: Pyroptosis was induced in human AC cells using exosomes. Then, the effect of Danshen (dried roots of S. miltiorrhiza) on exosome-induced pyroptosis was determined using flow cytometry. The expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), while protein levels of cytokines were assayed by Western blotting.

Results: Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA), the bioactive molecule in Danshen, inhibited cardiomyocyte pyroptosis by significantly reducing the expressions of proinflammatory cytokines (p < 0.001). Thus, Tan IIA reduced pyroptosis induced by cardiomyocyte-derived exosome via inhibition of the expression of NLRP3 inflammasome in human AC cells.

Conclusion: This study has identified a potential mechanism through which Danshen functions to prevent cardiac diseases. It involves, at least in part, the inhibition of pyroptosis in cardiomyocytes. Thus, tanshinone IIA may be a pharmacologically beneficial cardioprotective compound, especially when used against heart failure.
Glucuronidase beta is an early predictive marker for the use of antidepressant in the treatment of glioma patients
Authors: Xu Dayuan , Cui Gang
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To screen early targets and investigate the potential molecular mechanisms involved in the use of antidepressant in the treatment of glioma.

Methods: The GSE89873 dataset, including expression levels of C6 cells under antidepressant treatment, non-antidepressant drug treatment, and untreated cells (control), was downloaded from database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between antidepressant treatment and untreated cells, and between non-antidepressant drug treatment and untreated cells were identified and annotated. Genes that were significantly related to different drug treatment conditions were screened.

Results: In all, 416 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were selected between cells of the antidepressant treatment and control groups, while 650 DEGs were selected between cells of the non-antidepressant treatment and control groups. The 402 overlapping DEGs were significantly associated with the apoptotic process, transforming growth factor beta receptor signaling pathway, and cell cycle arrest (p < 0.05). The DEGs ACOX1, ACSL1, GSTM3, and GSTP1 were significantly related to hormonal therapy (p < 0.05). Glucuronidase beta (GUSB) was significantly associated with age and targeted molecular therapy (p < 0.05). The GUSB was also significantly associated with overall survival time (p < 0.05). It is one of the unique DEGs in the antidepressant treatment group that participates in the drug metabolism-cytochrome P450 metabolic pathway.

Conclusion: Glucuronidase beta may be a specific biomarker for the early response of antidepressants to glioma treatment. This should, however, be further investigated to validate this finding.
Inhibition of SPRY2 expression protects sevoflurane-induced nerve injury via ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Hu Lin , Du Jianan , Zhu Heye , Xu Xia , Mao Zemei
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of Sprouty2 (SPRY2) on sevoflurane (SEV) induced nerve injury in rats and its potential signaling pathway.

Methods: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into sham and SEV groups containing six rats per group. Neurological injury assessment and H & E staining were performed to evaluate the degree of nerve injury in the rats, while quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and immunoblot assays were performed to confirm the expression levels of SPRY2 in hippocampus tissues. Morris water maze tests were performed to determine the degree of cognitive deficit in rats. TUNEL and immunoblot assays were performed to evaluate the effects of SPRY2 on the apoptosis of hippocampus tissues.

Results: The SPRY2 expression was elevated in sevoflurane-induced hippocampus injury (p < 0.001). Ablation of SPRY2 inhibited sevoflurane-induced hippocampal neuron apoptosis (p < 0.001). In addition, depletion of SPRY2 promoted hippocampal neuron activity and decreased apoptosis (p < 0.001). Knockdown of SPRY2 promoted ERK signaling pathway, thereby protecting against sevoflurane-induced nerve injury and cognitive deficit in the rats (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Sevoflurane induces cognitive dysfunction and upregulates SPRY2 expression in brain tissues in rats. The SPRY2 knockdown improves SEV-induced neural injuries and cognitive deficits, inhibits hippocampal neuron apoptosis, and enhances its activity. Meanwhile, SPRY2 depletion protects SEV-induced nerve injury via the ERK pathway. Thus, Sprouty2 could serve as a promising drug target for the treatment of SEV-induced cognitive dysfunctions.
Scoparone inhibits the growth of liver cancer cells by regulating MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Xitao , Huang Jie
Published: November 2022

Purpose: To investigate the possible effects of scoparone on the viability, apoptosis and motility of liver cancer cells, as well as the mechanism of action.

Methods: CCK-8 and colony formation assays were carried out to determine liver cancer cell viability, while flow cytometry (FCM) and Immunoblot assays were performed to evaluate cell apoptosis. Wound closure and Transwell assays were performed to determine the effect of scoparone on cell motility, while immunoblot assays were performed to assess the effect of the compound on MAPK pathway of liver cancer cells.

Results: Scoparone suppressed the viability of Hep3B2 and Huh-7 cells (p < 0.01), as well as the apoptosis and motility of the cells (p < 0.01). Furthermore, scoparone inhibited the growth of liver cancer cells via MAPK pathway.

Conclusion: Scoparone suppresses liver cancer cell growth via MAPK pathway, and is thus a promising drug for liver cancer treatment. However, in vivo studies are required to validate these findings.
“The Angel’s Share”
Authors: Marín Risquez Ainoa
Published: November 2022

In this paper I present my personal reflections and knowledge of social work based on the film “The Angels’ Share” directed by Ken Loach and released in 2012. The movie is about young who cannot escape their criminal past. To avoid prison, they are sentenced to community service with an assigned social educator, Harry. He soon becomes their mentor, reintegrating them into socjety in a most curious way, introducing them to art and the world of whiskey. The message of this film goes beyond being hopeful, as it shows us the variability of social work, and how it consists of helping individuals, groups or communities to improve social functioning and create conditions, adapting to each situation by using the optimal resources for the individuals being the environment.
“Dying to Tell”
Authors: Ibarra Ane Román
Published: November 2022

The present reflection is based on the documentary “Dying to tell” by Hernan Zin (2018). This report is intended to provide the reader with insight into the reality of war reporters who give their voice and sometimes lives so that the truth is known. The documentary addresses issues such as different emotions (fear, frustration), the consequences of PTSD, death, or what this profession implies on a daily basis. It can be concluded that even though war correspondents do not have sufficient social recognition, their informative work on society is crucial to have reliable sources of events such as the war of Syria or Afghanistan.
Conflictos sociales en el sector energía en el Perú
Authors:   Universidad ESAN, Morales Oswaldo , Amésquita Fidel ,   Universidad ESAN
Published: November 2022

En distintos países emergentes, incluyendo el Perú, existe una relación directa positiva entre el crecimiento económico y las inversiones en energía, léase en la industria extractiva de hidrocarburos, la generación eléctrica, el procesamiento y almacenamiento de hidrocarburos para la obtención de combustibles y las diferentes modalidades de transporte de energía, sean oleoductos, gasoductos o líneas de transmisión eléctrica de alta, media o baja tensión. Pero este crecimiento energético viene acompañado de proyectos que se desarrollan en una determinada área territorial operativa y de influencia en la que se encuentran diferentes grupos de interés, el principal de los cuales es la comunidad, generalmente rural, en la que se ejecuta la inversión. Las comunidades y sus líderes no siempre comparten los objetivos de las empresas; en muchos casos, tienen una visión diferente del uso de su territorio y también ven la oportunidad de beneficiarse económicamente al recibir una compensación por el uso de este o a tener prioridad en la asignación de puestos de trabajo en el proyecto. Cuando los intereses de empresa y comunidad no se alinean, nacen o se generan conflictos energéticos socioambientales, los cuales tienen como protagonistas principales, por un lado, a la empresa privada inversora y, por el otro, a la comunidad afectada. A estos dos actores relevantes se les suman otros que incluyen desde autoridades locales, regionales y/o gubernamentales hasta los medios de comunicación de nivel nacional y la sociedad en general, dependiendo de la trascendencia del caso. Las experiencias plasmadas en este libro van a permitir a gestores de las empresas energéticas, a consultores y a la comunidad académica en general conocer planteamientos creativos de solución para casos reales ya presentados que contribuyan a la solución de conflictos sociales similares, actuales o potenciales, sean estos del mismo sector o de otros sectores económicos.
Metastasis of Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma: A Descriptive Study of 75 Patients
Authors: Sekkat Kenza , Haraj Nassim Essabah , El Aziz Siham , Chadli Asma
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Differentiated Thyroid Carcinoma (DTC) is the most common endocrine malignancy, and is generally of favorable prognosis. However, this latter is significantly worse when initial distant metastasis is present. The aim of our study is to describe the clinical, paraclinical, and therapeutic aspects of metastatic carcinomas in patients followed-up at the Endocrinology Department of the CHU Ibn Rochd in Casablanca, Morocco. Methods: This is a retrospective descriptive study of patients diagnosed with metastatic differentiated thyroid cancers and followed in the endocrinology service at the university hospital of Ibn Rochd in Casablanca over a 34 years period (1986- 2020). The variables studied were age, histological type and features, TNM stage, and metastasis localizations. Data analysis was performed using SPSS 22.0 software. Results: We included 75 patients in our study. The mean age at diagnosis was 46.4 years ± 14.2 years. The sex ratio M / F: 0.1. Metastases were revelatory of DTC in 19 cases. Fifty-seven patients had lymph node metastasis, 17 patients had bone metastasis and 15 patients had lung metastasis. The most frequent histological types were classical papillary carcinoma (47%), papillary carcinoma with vesicular differentiation (21%), then vesicular carcinoma (11%). Regarding the histological characteristics, capsular effraction was found in 35% of cases, vascular emboli in 18% and multifocality in 23% of cases. Analysis of the variables studied showed that gender was not a predictive factor for the appearance of a certain type of metastasis. However, patients older than 55 were significantly more likely to develop lung metastases (p=0.01). Concerning histological features, the existence of vascular emboli was significantly associated with the apparition of lymph node and bone metastases (p=0.01) as well as lung metastases, although not significantly (p=0.1). The mortality rate in our sample was relatively low at 8%. Conclusion: Patients with vascular emboli were more likely to develop lymph nodes and bone metastases, and patients older than 55 were more likely to develop lung metastases. Even if metastases occur, prognosis is generally favorable for DTCs compared to other types of thyroid cancers.
La competencia lectora: un estudio de caso en Escuelas rurales del sur de Zacatecas, México
Authors: García Carlos Alfredo Damián
Published: November 2022

El objetivo de la investigación fue mejorar la competencia lectora de alumnos en Educación Primaria, implicando la velocidad, fluidez y comprensión. Se aplicaron diversas estrategias de lectura y de comprensión de textos, así como preguntas de diferente nivel cognitivo de Wilson, Leslie O. (2001), dentro de la práctica docente. Cairo (1989) nos señala lo complejo que puede llegar a ser el comprender un texto, dejando en claro la importancia que tiene la comprensión como actividad estratégica, ya que el lector debe llevar un proceso. Es un estudio de caso cualitativo de acuerdo con Simons (2011), donde participaron 6 estudiantes del 6° Semestre de la Licenciatura en Educación Primaria de la Escuela Normal de Juchipila, Zacatecas, México y 95 alumnos de 6 Escuelas primarias rurales del Sur del Edo. de Zacatecas, México. Se utilizó la observación participante, la videograbación, las fotografías y la triangulación de datos. Dentro de los hallazgos, se encontró que el planteamiento de preguntas a partir de situaciones o casos sucedidos en el texto, propició la reflexión sobre la información y la vinculación con sus emociones contestando preguntas afectivas, abiertas, de opción múltiple y de toma de decisión, considerando los diferentes niveles de dominio cognitivo, impactando en la elaboración de inferencias sobre los textos.