bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Big Data in Driving Greener Social Welfare and Sustainable Environmental Management
Authors: Arumugam Thangaraja , Ashifa K. M. , Vinayagalakshmi V. , Kiran Uday , Ramya S.
Published: December 2023

The emergence of big data (BD) has opened up new opportunities for addressing social and environmental challenges. This chapter examines the potential of BD to drive green social welfare and sustainable environmental management. The chapter highlights how big data can be used to develop new approaches for monitoring and managing natural resources and addressing social issues such as poverty and inequality. It explores how big data can be used to promote sustainable development, from enhancing resource efficiency to improving disaster management. The chapter also discusses challenges associated with using big data for social welfare and sustainable development, including privacy concerns and improved data quality. Ultimately, the chapter concludes that big data has the potential to transform our approach to sustainable development but that a coordinated effort is required to ensure that it is used effectively and responsibly.
Harnessing AI and Big Data for Ethical and Efficient Decisions
Authors: Bag Akash , Roy Souvik
Published: December 2023

Smart technologies like AI and big data have transformed decision-making. These tools are becoming increasingly popular in various businesses, but India's political sector has not used them. The previous two years have seen a pandemic that has impacted society. The chapter investigated whether AI and big data can be used in politics to make faster, more efficient, and morally acceptable decisions, and how politicians can ensure ethical use. Question: How can big data and AI help politicians make ethical decisions? Using relevant literature, the qualitative investigation found utilization, problems, ethical issues, and hazards. Semi-structured interviews with politicians and AI experts were also done to determine if the technologies may be used in politics. Before AI can support decision-making, much political data must be digitized. In conclusion, AI and big data can streamline Indian decision-making through document reading and analysis. There is no ethical framework for AI and big data utilization today, making ethical decisions impossible.
Hybrid Learning
Authors: Prajapati Renu , Gupta Sandhya
Published: December 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, different methods of learning were used, in which hybrid learning was prominent. The use of technology and other complexities in this method made it hard to adapt, especially for teachers who are less tech-friendly. This method requires a huge amount of teacher presence and to provide that the teachers have to compromise with their mental health. As not being mentally healthy, teachers start perceiving their job negatively, which leads to declined job satisfaction among them. This study aims to assess the role of hybrid learning and teacher presence in mental health and job satisfaction among teachers. To assess hybrid learning and teacher presence, a survey was conducted on the government teachers. The data was analyzed statistically, and the findings suggest that hybrid learning came out as a significant predictor of job satisfaction. It was found that mental health was significantly negatively predicted by teacher presence. Another finding also emerged that both hybrid learning and teacher presence predicted job satisfaction.
Supply Chain Information System for Sustainability and Interoperability of Business Service
Authors: Pal Kamalendu
Published: December 2023

With the realization of environmental and social sustainability in developing and using apparel products and services, stakeholders – particularly consumers- are more concerned regarding these issues in business operations. In order to address new developments and changing trends, apparel businesses are compelled to identify and implement innovative and sustainable solutions for regular activities. This chapter assesses how the textile and apparel supply chains can comply with the United Nations' sustainable development goals. In particular, verifying the source of raw materials and maintaining visibility of merchandise products and related services while moving through the value-chain networks is challenging and maintains interoperable business sustainability. Information systems play a vital role in maintaining operational sustainability. This chapter presents a blockchain-based Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure powered by service-oriented computing architecture as a solution for information processing for maintaining sustainable supply chain operations.
Constitutive Model and Impact Induced Fragmentation of W-Zr Alloy
Authors: Yang Yi Zhe , Wang Chuan Ting , Yang Yan Song , He Yuan , Guo Lei , He Yong
Published: December 2023

In this paper, two types of W-Zr alloy with different proportions were prepared. The dynamic and quasi-static compression mechanical properties of Zr-25%W alloy and Zr-50%W alloy at various strain rates were obtained. The results showed that the tungsten component could improve the mechanical strength of the alloy, while the zirconium component could significantly improve the plasticity of the alloy. The JC constitutive models of two types of W-Zr alloys and the KHL constitutive model of Zr-25%W alloy were proposed. The fitting parameters of JC model and KHL model were determined by the dynamic and quad-static compression tests. Dynamic impact tests of two types of W-Zr alloys were carried out in argon atmosphere at various velocities. The power law distribution theory for brittle materials could also describe the high-speed impact of W-Zr alloy.
Micro-Alloying Effect on the Inter-Critical Grain Coarsened Heat Affected Zone of a S355 Steel Welded Joint
Authors: Di Schino Andrea , Sgambetterra Mirko , Schmidt Rolf , Stornelli Giulia , Tselikova Anastasiya
Published: December 2023

The inter-critical heat affected zone (ICHAZ) appears to be one of the most brittle sections in the welding of high-strength micro-alloyed steels (HSLA). Following repeated heating cycles in in with temperature ranging Ac1 /Ac3, the ICHAZ will face with an evident toughness and fatigue behavior reduction especially due to martensite-austenite constituent (MA) formation. Microalloying in high strength steels causes the generation of some phases in the matrix able to increase the mechanical properties of the joint. In this paper we report an investigation related to 1000 ppm vanadium addition in the welded joint of a structural S355 steel. The inter-critical zone of ta double pass welded joint is here reproduced by dilatometer, with second peak temperature ranging 720°C-790°C. The residual austenite dependence on inter-critical temperature is analyzed and related to the hardness behavior.
Factor for Improvement of Plastic Workability in Magnesium Alloy Pipes through Processing by Torsion and Back-Torsion
Authors: Okazaki Hayata , Kato Taro , Furui Mitsuaki
Published: December 2023

Magnesium alloys have the advantages being lightweight and high recyclability. On the other hands, it is thought that magnesium has the disadvantage of poor plastic workability at room temperature due to its crystal structure. Especially, in pipe materials, winkles occur on the compressed side during bending. We aim to improve the bending workability in magnesium alloy pipe by torsion and back-torsion. In this study, tensile and compressive tests using specimens of pipes processed by torsion and back-torsion showed reduction the difference of yield stress. Microstructural observation of processed pipes revealed reducing crystal grain size and forming deformation twinning. Vickers hardness tests shows increasing hardness by torsion and back-torsion. Moreover, bending tests showed decreasing flatting ratio by torsion and back-torsion. These results demonstrated that torsion and back-torsion have effect of improvement in bending workability for magnesium alloy pipes.
Mass Production and Vast Application States of Bulk Metallic Glasses
Authors: Inoue Akihisa , Kong Fan Li , Zhu Xu Guang , Gao Kuan
Published: December 2023

Since the first synthesis of bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) by copper mold casting in 1990, much effort has been devoted to the searching of new BMG composition, the clarification of fundamental and engineering properties for BMGs and their industrialization. At present, BMGs have been formed in a large number of multicomponent alloy systems where the empirical three component rule is satisfied. Nowadays, commercialized BMGs are classified to Zr-based and Fe-based alloy groups. When we look at the industrialization of Zr-Al-Ni-Cu-based BMGs, the first commercialization was made for golf clubs in Japan in 1998, followed by watch parts etc. Since then, Zr-based BMGs have been used continuously up to 2013, though their application scale was in a limited state. Since 2014, the application scale was significantly extended in collaboration with the rapid developments of smartphones and electric vehicles. At present, the mass production facilities for Zr-based BMGs have been significantly developed and variety of BMG products have been produced. On the other hand, Fe-based soft magnetic BMGs were found in 1995. Their BMGs have also been used on a huge number of pieces in various kinds of electronic-magnetic instruments. These recent application states for Zr- and Fe-based BMGs are introduced together with new nanocrystalline Fe-based soft magnetic alloys developed through the derivation of alloy composition from Fe-based BMGs.
Manufacturing Method and Thermal Properties of Open-Cell Type Aluminum Foam by Replication Casting Process
Authors: Kim Jong Min , Ha Tae Kyu , Han Beom Suck , Kim Young Jig
Published: December 2023

Open-cell type aluminum foam possesses unique structural characteristics comprising numerous interconnected pores within. This intriguing structure facilitates the passage of fluids (gas or liquid) through the interior of the open-cell type aluminum foams, enabling easy transfer to the exterior. The objective of this study is to manufacture open-cell type aluminum foams with varying pore sizes using the replication casting process and to evaluate their thermal properties. The equipment designed for the production of open-cell type aluminum foams consists of a chamber and an inner container. The chamber is connected to a vacuum line and an Ar gas line, with the container positioned inside. The aluminum alloys utilized for the foams were A356 and ADC12, and Na2CO3 served as the space holder. As a result of manufacturing the foams, there was no significant difference of porosity with space holder size and alloy types, the porosity averaged around 62%. To investigate the thermal properties of open-cell type aluminum foams in relation to pore size and alloy types, temperature variations were measured during sample heating via the hot plate method. Consequently, it was confirmed that the thermal properties of the foams were influenced by the structural conditions and alloy types.
Mechanical Properties and Microstructure Evolution of an AA5083 via Introducing 0.33%Sc and Cryorolling
Authors: Bah Thierno Amadou , Waqas Farid , Yu Hai Liang
Published: December 2023

The influence of Sc on the mechanical properties and microstructure evolution an AA5083 was studied. AA5083/0.33wt%Sc was prepared by stir casting, and then this alloy was subjected to a cryorolling process at-196°C with 50 % rolling reduction. The mechanical properties of the specimens were measured by tensile strength testing and Vickers microhardness test. Furthermore, the microstructure of specimens was analyzed by X-Ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), optical microscopy and electron back scattered diffraction. The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of the base AA5083 alloy was 238 MPa, which increased to 244 MPa after adding 0.33wt%Sc. After subjecting the as-cast AA5083/0.33wt%Sc to 50% cryorolling reduction, the UTS increased to 404 MPa. The fractured surfaces revealed a large-scale dimpled structure, similar to the ductile fracture mechanism in the starting material. In the cryorolled sample, a fibrous morphology with tiny dimples was observed, corresponding to the low elongation.
Microstructure Observation of Al-Zn-Mg Alloy with High Mg Content
Authors: Ahmed Abrar , Lee Seung Won , Tsuchiya Taiki , Matsuda Kenji , Nishimura Katsuhiko , Nunomura Norio , Toda Hiroyuki , Hirayama Kyosuke , Shimizu Kazuyuki , Yamaguchi Masatake , Tsuru Tomohito , Itakura Mitsuhiro
Published: December 2023

The microstructure and mechanical properties of Al-Zn-Mg alloys with low Zn/Mg ratios have been studied.According to various researchers, the major strengthening is due to η-phase and T phase. There are many briefly research on the microstructure and interface of the η-phase types but not briefly information about the T-phase That’s why now our aim to work on T-phase. In actual our aim is to observe the T-phase interface. The MgZn2 phase (η phase) and its metastable phase (η′ phase) were the most prominent precipitates. Another study revealed various Mg32(Al,Zn)49 phases (T phase) and their metastable phase (T′ phase) in Al-Zn-Mg alloys with low Zn and high Mg content. Al-Zn-Mg alloys with a Zn/Mg ratio of 0.71 were explored for this study. The alloy with a Zn/Mg ratio of 0.71 aged at 473k for 2000 minutes exhibited the highest hardness, according to the observations. The strengthening precipitates in the investigated alloy were totally T′ phase, according to TEM observation.
Ultrafast Laser Fabrication of Microchannels on Aluminium Alloy Substrate
Authors: Cholkar Abhijit , Chatterjee Suman , Kinahan David , Brabazon Dermot
Published: December 2023

Aluminium alloy 6061 has a versatile application within industrial heat exchangers, heat sinks, chemical equipment, and frames of aircraft and ships. Its physical and mechanical properties such as lightweight, high strength, corrosion resistance, and thermal and electrical conductivity make it a suitable material choice for these applications. Within thermal and micro-electromechanical applications, such as heat exchanges, radiators, and heat sinks used in microelectronics, the dissipation of heat plays an important role. For optimum heat dissipation, a higher surface area is required. This can be achieved by modifying the surface by fabricating microchannels. A number of processing techniques are used for fabricating microchannels on different materials. A laser is a flexible non-contact machining tool that may be used to create any profile or contour on practically any material. In recent times due to the advancement in laser technology, the use of ultrafast laser material processing is one potential route toward further extending the fabrication of high-quality microchannels without defects caused due to heat-affected zones and in a sustainable manner. In this paper, we present an experimental work of fabrication of microchannels on an aluminium alloy 6061 surfaces by using a low power (<4 W) 400 fs laser system. The dimensional accuracy of the fabricated microchannels is assessed using scanning electron microscopy and 3D profilometry. Furthermore, as processing speed and scale is of importance in industrial laser processes, the use of scanning optics is examined as a means of developing a rapid and scalable ultrafast laser process.
Why Do Grains Remain Roughly Equiaxed during Steady State Discontinuous Dynamic Recrystallization?
Authors: Montheillet Frank , Piot David
Published: December 2023

The combination of advection and migration of grain boundaries is analyzed on the basis of a simple mesoscale model, where parallelepipedic grains are considered under uniaxial compression straining. Strain hardening and dynamic recovery are described by the classical Yoshie-Laasraoui-Jonas equation. Grain-boundary migration is driven by the difference in dislocation densities between one representative grain and the average over the material. Finally, nucleation is assumed to occur at grain boundaries. Special attention is paid to the aspect ratio, which starts from unity (infinitely small cubic nucleus) and tends to zero when the grain disappears. In spite of the role of migration, the average shape of the grains is determined as a first approximation by their lifetimes.
Effect of Core Hole Diameter on Tensile and Fatigue Properties of the Helically Formed Internal Thread in AlSi10MnMg Cast Alloys
Authors: Sarafraz Yashar , Felinks Nils , Biermann Dirk , Walther Frank
Published: December 2023

The manufacturing of internal thread using the helical thread forming process (Punch Tap) as a novel high-performance manufacturing technology provides high productivity by reducing the tool path, which can save manufacturing time up to 75% compared to the conventional thread forming process. For instance, cast gearboxes in the transport sector consisting of numerous internal threads can benefit from this manufacturing method to realize detachable joints. While the required core hole diameter for conventional (cut) tapping depends on the thread dimension, this diameter depends either on the material properties for the thread forming process. The proper core hole diameter according to material flow possibility enables forming of complete thread profiles, which can consequently enhance the mechanical properties of the thread. This study aims to analyze the effect of the core hole diameter on the quality of the formed threads in AlSi10MnMg cast profiles. M6 threads were formed into the pre-drilled core holes with two different diameters. CT-scan analysis indicated that reducing the core hole diameter decreases the inner volume of the formed internal thread, which is justified by better material flow and complete forming of the thread profiles. Adaptation of the manufacturing parameters according to the material properties enhanced the geometry of the formed thread profiles. This enhancement increased the tensile and fatigue strengths of the detachable joints by subjecting the four initially formed threads at the top of manufactured nuts to the static and cyclic loads.
Effect of Process Condition and Test Environment on Tensile Properties in Cold-Rolled Al-Cu-Mg Alloys
Authors: Ishii Yuki , Kobayashi Junya , Kobayashi Equo , Ohnuma Masato , Kuramoto Shigeru , Itoh Goroh
Published: December 2023

Severe plastic deformation processing and subsequent aging treatment have been known to be effective for achieving higher strength than the conventional aging treatment in aluminum alloys. This study prepared the Al-Cu-Mg-based alloy sample, Al-5.3Cu-2.8Mg (mass%). The alloys were solution treated at 480, 495 and 505°C, and cold-rolled by 90%. The effect of process condition and test environment on tensile properties in cold-rolled Al-Cu-Mg alloys was investigated. Results confirm that strength and ductility were improved with increasing the solution heat treatment temperature regardless of test environment. 0.2% proof stress and ultimate tensile strength were higher than aging treatment specimens, but elongation to failure was lower than aged one. Hydrogen embrittlement susceptibility increased with increasing solution treatment temperature. Ductile fracture with many dimples is observed in both cold-rolled and aged specimens. Second-phase particles were observed at the bottom of the dimples. There was no significant difference in fracture surface between the different test environments.
Pregnancy Behavior Induce Changes in Glia Cells Rattus norvegicus Offspring Brain Through Prenatal Stimulation of Holy Quran
Authors: Kusuma Ridzky Berliana , Joewono Hermanto Tri , Zanudin Asfarina
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

The environment influences the development of nerves in the brain from early pregnancy until newborn. The purpose of this study was to determine the response of glial cells in the fetus to the sound stimulus of the murottal Al-Qur'an in newborn Rattus norvegicus. Besides that, the goal of this study was to show that murottal Al-Qur'an has seductive chants, makraj, and tajwid, which can emit brain waves and increase the number of glial cells by decreasing stress hormones and relaxing, thereby continuing to support fetal growth and development through the increasing number of glial cells.

Methods:

Female Wistar were divided into two equal groups. The control group without treatment and the surah Ar-Rahman group were given exposure treatment on days 10–20 of pregnancy. At the end of the experiment, R. norvegicus was sacrificed, and the cerebrum was taken, the head weight was measured, and the left and right hemispheres were analyzed for the number of left and right glial cells. Then, the brain was prepared using hematoxylin–eosin and observed in 400 magnifying microscopes in five fields.

Results:

The results showed that exposure to surah Ar-Rahman murottal could increase the number of glial cells with a significant difference (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

This research establishes a relationship between stimulation since pregnancy with murottal Al-Qur'an and a number of glial cells (astrocyte, oligodendrocyte, and microglia). This finding can help identify stimulation of the murottal Al-Qur'an sound during pregnancy with glial cells.
Pheochromocytoma with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Subclinical Cushing's Syndrome
Authors: Mawardi Rosyid , Mudjanarko Sony Wibisono , Yunasan Elvina
Published: December 2023

Pheochromocytoma is a catecholamine-producing tumor that originates from adrenal medullary chromaffin cells. It affects 1–8 per million people annually and accounts for 5% of adrenal incidentalomas. Here, we report a 62-year-old man with sudden excessive sweating, palpitations, and headaches. He has a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and an adrenal mass found incidentally by ultrasonography. Clinical history and further imaging suggest a pheochromocytoma; however, the presence of subclinical Cushing's syndrome and a normal urine vanillylmandelic acid level have led to diagnostic challenges. Finally, the patient underwent a left adrenalectomy. Histopathology showed the tumor as thick nests of cells, positive chromogranin A staining, and negative inhibin staining that confirmed the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. In conclusion, our patient had pheochromocytoma that was thought to produce adrenocorticotropic hormone ectopically, resulting in subclinical Cushing's syndrome.
Protective Effect of Pteropyrum scoparium against Heated Palm Olein-Induced Oxidative Stress in Rat Liver
Authors: Al Nasiri Amal M. , Waly Mostafa I. , Al-khusaibi Mohammed , Ali Haytham , Al-Alawi Ahmed A. , Albalushi Ruqaiya , Al-Subhi Lyutha , Al-Sabahi Jamal , Rahman Mohammad S.
Published: December 2023

Pteropyrum scoparium leaves extract (PSE) is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of different diseases due to its antioxidant properties, yet only a few studies have investigated its protective effect against oxidative stress. This study aimed to asses the biochemical impact of PSE on heated palm olein-induced oxidative stress in rat liver tissue as an experimental model. The palm olein was repeatedly heated at 180 ± 1 °C for 25 hours (5 days’ step heating) and then used for rat feeding. The oil properties before and after heating were analyzed by measuring peroxide value (PV), acid value (AV), and total polar compounds (TPC). Forty-eight adult male Fischer 344 rats were divided into four equal groups (n = 12); first group: rats were fed non-heated palm olein (NHPO) diet, second group: rats were fed the same diet as the first group with PSE, third group: rats were fed heated palm olein (HPO) diet, and fourth group: rats were fed the same diet as the third group with PSE. The rats were given PSE by oral gavage (0.1 mg extract/1 mL water/day) for 8 weeks before being sacrificed. Hepatic histopathological changes and biochemical measurements of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and glutathione (GSH) in liver tissue homogenates were assessed. There was a significant increase in PV, AV, and TPC for HPO as compared to NHPO, P < 0.05. The HPO diet caused oxidative stress in the rat liver, as evidenced by decreasing TAC levels and depletion of GSH. Besides, HPO fed group showed fatty infiltration of the hepatocytes as shown by histopathological analysis, in contrast to the NHPO group that exhibited normal structure and architectures of the hepatic cells. In addition, an improvement was observed in serum biochemical parameters (aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase), indicating a protective effect of PSE against HPO-induced liver injuries, confirmed by histopathological studies. In conclusion, PSE supplementation showed a protective effect in HPO fed groups by improving GSH and TAC levels significantly. PSE combats oxidative stress induced by the HPO diet in hepatocytes of experimental rats.
Prevalence and pattern of use of herbal medicines during pregnancy by pregnant and childbearing women
Authors: Bhupathyraaj Mullaicharam , Alharbi Hanan Fahad , Al Ghazali Mohammad , Al Sayigh Fatma Abdul Razak , Al Shereiqi Raiya , Hakak Marwa Hatem Sharif , Sulieman Salma , Khalil Fatema Abdulzahra , Mahmood Mona , Rajamani Yoga S
Published: December 2023

The accessibility and low cost of herbal medicine are contributing to its growing popularity. The majority of pregnant mothers choose to use herbal remedies to treat pregnancy symptoms like nausea, headaches, and so forth. This study aims to determine how common it is for women to use herbal remedies while pregnant in Bahla, Sultanate of Oman. The study was a cohort study involving between 80 and 100 pregnant women. Along with the consent form, a questionnaire was used to gather the quantitative data (both English and Arabic). Face-to-face interviews were employed in the collection of qualitative data. It was reported that 17% of pregnant women have used herbal medicine. Forty-seven percent of them were taking herbal medicine at the time of delivery, according to the study. 43.8% of people believe that the primary cause is the inadequacy of modern medicine. As mentioned by 52.9% of pregnant women, the primary goal of using herbal medicine is to speed up labor. Additionally, 23.5% of them said that using herbal medicine is to start labor. The results of this study showed that women in Bahla frequently use herbal remedies during pregnancy. The most widely used herbal remedies were Verbenaceae, Fenugreek, Castor oil, Brown sugar, and Saffron. It is recommended that social media should be used to raise awareness of the pregnancy-related effects of herbal medicine. Additionally, those involved in antenatal care, in particular, should be aware of the evidence about the potential benefits or risks of herbal medicinal agents.
Seroprevalence of VZV and HSV-2 Antibodies among Women of Childbearing Age Referring to Health Centres of Mashhad, Iran: The Need for Consideration of VZV Vaccination Program
Authors: Youssefi Masoud , Zahedi Avval Farnaz , Ghasabzadeh Hoda , Khadem-Rezaiyan Majid
Published: December 2023

Background:

Infections with herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV) are associated with serious maternal and neonatal health consequences. The literature review reveals a research gap regarding the seroprevalence of HSV-2 and VZV among women of reproductive age in Mashhad, Northeast of Iran. The present study aims to evaluate the seroprevalence of these viruses among a group of women in Mashhad, Iran.

Methods:

Sera were collected by health center personnel using a cluster sampling method from healthy women with specific age characteristics residing in three distinct socioeconomic regions of the city. The participants, aged 20–35, were divided into three groups (20–25, 26–30, and 31–35 years). The levels of VZV and HSV-2 IgG antibodies were evaluated using commercial ELISA kits. Subsequently, the results were analyzed using SPSS software.

Results:

A total of 93 women were included in the study. Anti-HSV-2 IgG antibody was detected in 3 out of 93 participants (7.5%), while anti-VZV IgG antibody was found positive in 80 out of 93 individuals (83.3%). The HSV-2 positive cases were concurrently positive for the VZV antibody. There was no significant difference in the positivity of anti-HSV-2 and anti-VZV antibody positivity within age groups or socioeconomic status (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

The high seroprevalence of VZV among nonvaccinated participants indicates a widespread presence of the virus and underscores its potentially serious impact on community health. Therefore, it is recommended that a VZV vaccination program be considered by the health system. Furthermore, the reactivation of latent HSV-2, whether symptomatic or asymptomatic, during pregnancy should not be disregarded as a life-threatening threat.
Clinical study to evaluate the efficacy of autoinoculation in genital molluscum contagiosum in reproductive age group
Authors: Choudhary Durga , Yadav Chinmai , Kachhawa Dilip , Rajoriya Deepti
Published: December 2023

Context:

Molluscum contagiosum (MC) typically presents as asymptomatic or itchy, discrete, smooth, flesh-colored, dome-shaped papules with central umbilication. Lesions on the genitals are often sexually transmitted and tend to be seen in young adults. Homologous auto implantation is a simple technique which helps in inducing a cell-mediated immune response to the antigens, aiding clearance of both local and distant lesions.

Aim and Objectives:

The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy and side effect of the technique of autoinoculation for the treatment of genital MC in terms of reduction in number of lesions.

Materials and Methods:

Thirty-one patients having >5 genital molluscum attending skin outpatient department were enrolled out of which 30 remain. A well-defined mc lesion was approached using an insulin syringe (30 G) and pierced from a site just adjacent to the lesion. Results were assessed every 2 weeks for 2 months.

Results:

60% (n = 18) patients showed excellent response, 20% (n = 6) patients showed very good response, 6.6% (n = 2) patients showed good response and 13.3% (n = 4) showed poor response at the end of the study.

Conclusion:

The autoinoculation technique is an effective technique in terms of excellent clearance of MC lesions with fewer chances of recurrence, side effects, and shorter duration taken to achieve a complete response to distant lesions.
The profile of sexually transmitted infections of men who have sex with men
Authors: Pravitha Balakrishnan Pookkottil , Prathap Priya , Asokan Neelakandhan , Sudhiraj Thiruthara Sukumaran
Published: December 2023

Context:

Very few studies have compared the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and risk factors particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM) with the non-MSM group.

Aims:

(1) To compare the profile of STIs among MSM and non-MSM attending our STI clinic, (2) To identify the risk factors for STIs among MSM.

Subjects and Methods:

In this comparative cross-sectional study, we analyzed the records of all male attendees of our STI clinic from March 2015 to March 2020 for demographic details, sexual history, clinical examination and laboratory findings.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Chi-square test and logistic regression were utilized in analysis.

Results:

The number of both MSM and non-MSM attending the clinic increased over 5 years with a more sharp increase in the number of MSM, after 2017. 68.9% of MSM had their first sexual contact before attaining 20 years of age. The most common STIs were syphilis (53.75%), genital warts (30%) and herpes genitalis (20.62%). Syphilis was the most frequent STI among MSM (48/74, 64.90%) as well as non-MSM (38/86, 44.20%); though its frequency was significantly more among MSM (P < 0.01). Being unmarried (odds ratio [OR] = 3.58, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.85–6.93, P < 0.01), having more than two sexual partners (OR = 4.49, 95% CI = 2.12–9.50, P < 0.01), practising peno-oral sex (OR = 4.74, 95% CI = 2.33–9.62, P < 0.01) and peno-anal sex (OR = 19, CI = 8.55–42.38, P < 0.01) were significantly associated with MSM behavior.

Conclusions:

There was an increasing trend of MSM attending the STI clinic from the year 2017. MSM persons are likely to be younger, unmarried, and have more than two sex partners. The commonest STI among MSM was syphilis.
Association of dermatological manifestations with CD4 count among people living with HIV attending tertiary care hospital of South Gujarat
Authors: Parmar Brijesh Vinubhai , Purohit Neha , Patel Yogesh
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Dermatological manifestations are common manifestations of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease, seen in 80% to 95% of HIV-infected patients. Dermatological manifestations are considered clinical indicators to predict and assess the underlying immune status.

Aim:

This study aims to document the dermatological manifestations in relation to CD4 count in people living with HIV (PLHIV).

Materials and Methods:

Cross-sectional study in 250 PLHIV fulfilling inclusion–exclusion criteria was conducted. Variables including sociodemographic profile, recent CD4 count (data from antiretroviral therapy center), and dermatological manifestation (physical examination) were collected. Clinical diagnosis was established, and patients were grouped according to the World Health Organization immunological staging

Results:

Majority of PLHIV (39.6%) were in the age group of 31–40 years. Males were affected more than females (1.6:1). A total of 364 dermatoses were observed; dermatological manifestation per patient ranged from 1 to 4. 32.80%. PLHIV had CD4 count >500 cells/mm3, 15.60% had CD4 count between 200–349 cells/mm3. Majority of dermatosis had infectious etiology (77.6%), out of which dermatophytosis (27.2%) was the most common infectious condition, whereas pruritic papular eruption was the most common (11.6%) noninfectious condition. A statistically significant association of CD4 count was found with dermatophytosis (P ≤ 0.001) and candidiasis (P = 0.001).

Conclusion:

The study showed a significant association between the number of dermatological manifestation and CD4 count as majority of study participants (67.2%) had CD4 <500 cells/mm3 at the time of episode of dermatosis.
A menace to fraternity
Authors: Narang Sanya Kamal , Rathwa Pratiksha Kanubhai , Shah Hiral A.
Published: December 2023

Congenital syphilis (CS), once a forgotten disease, has now remerged. A 2-month-old male child presented with multiple discrete skin-colored papules over the trunk, back, bilateral lower limbs, and groin. He also had a deformity of bilateral lower limbs and a widening at the wrist. Radiological findings suggested syphilitic changes in long bones. Nontreponemal as well as treponemal tests were positive in the baby and both parents confirming the diagnosis of CS. The father had a history of multiple sex partners and untreated genital lesions in the past. The case emphasizes the importance of awareness regarding sexually transmitted infections and its timely treatment and judicious antenatal screening for the same.
Split X-jaw Planning Technique of Volumetric Modulated Arc Radiotherapy
Authors: Nath Jyotiman , Sarma Gautam
Published: December 2023

This brief communication article examines the constraints posed by the Varian linear accelerator machine’s volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) due to the maximum extent of the multileaf collimator (MLC) in the x-jaw direction. The MLC leaves within this machine are capable of extending up to 15 cm in the x-jaw direction. However, when VMAT is employed with excessive extension, modulation level decreases, leading to compromised target dose distribution, and the protection of critical organs. The existing VMAT techniques involve open and limited x-jaw approaches, but these methods present avenues for enhancement. One innovative approach is the split x-jaw planning technique, which involves segmenting the open field into two distinct fields with some overlap. This strategy yields four treatment arcs that comprehensively cover the planning target volume (PTV). Enhancing modulation and conformity can be achieved by restricting each field’s size to 15 cm. Consequently, this technique demonstrates improved target dose distributions, heightened plan conformity, and more effective sparing of organs at risk compared to the limited and open methodologies. Initial dosimetric studies suggest that the split X-jaw technique holds promise as a superior planning solution for larger PTVs that exceed the MLC’s maximum x-jaw extent.
Dosimetric Comparison of Unmatched Flattening Filter-free and Flattened Beams in Volumetric Arc Therapy Plans for Head-and-neck Cancer
Authors: Kumar Arvind , Sharma Kiran , Bhatt Chandi Prasad , Garg Abhishek
Published: December 2023

Introduction:

Conventionally, the fattened beam is being used in radiotherapy for routine clinical cases even after introduction of intensity-modulated radiotherapy with incorporation of multi-leaf collimator system. With the removal of the flattening filter (FF) from the beam’s path average energy of the photon gets reduced resulting in reduced scatter, reduction in treatment time, and reduced neutron contamination for high-energy beam and ultimately resulting in treatment plan quality deviations. This study aims to investigate the usefulness of the FF-free (FFF) beam for routine head-and-neck cancer (HNC) cases treated with volumetric arc therapy (VMAT) and dosimetrically compares the result with the FF beam.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, 20 patients treated on HalcyonTM (unmatched 6 megavoltage [6MV] FFF beam) medical linear accelerator with VMAT of different HNC selected and for comparison with 6MV FF beam, 20 equivalent treatment plans are created for TruebeamTM configuration and the plans have been evaluated for target coverage, doses to the organ at risk (OAR), and other dose quality indices.

Results:

Comparable target coverage, doses to OARs except for rest right parotid (P = 0.02) between 6MV FFF beam and 6MV FF beam is observed. Insignificant differences in conformity index, homogeneity index, and gradient index have been observed. Higher monitor unit (MU) (P ≤ 0.001) and lesser beam on time (BOT) (P = 0.003) have been observed in 6MV FFF.

Conclusion:

6MV FFF beam provides comparable target coverage and improved dose-sparing effect to most of the OARs. 6MV FFF beam has lesser BOT, but on the other hand number of MUs is higher as compared to 6MV-FF plans.
Avascular necrosis predictive factors after closed reduction in patients with developmental dysplasia of the hip
Authors: Kheiri Sara , Tahririan Mohammad Ali , Shahnaser Soheil , Ardakani Mohammadreza Piri
Published: December 2023

Background:

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) is a common pediatric orthopedic condition. Closed reduction (CR) is the conservative treatment approach with high success rates for DDH. However, avascular necrosis (AVN) is a severe potential complication after this procedure. This study retrospectively assessed the potential risk factors for AVN occurrence after CR and Spica cast immobilization.

Materials and Methods:

In a retrospective observational study, 71 patients (89 hips) with DDH aged 6–24 months old undergoing CR were enrolled. All patients were followed up for 3 years, and their demographic data, initial Tönnis grade, pre-reduction procedures, abduction angle in the Spica cast, and the AVN presence (based on Bucholz and Ogden classification [3rd–4th class]) were documented.

Results:

Of 71 patients (89 hips) with a mean age of 12.5 ± 3.9 months, 13 patients (18 hips) developed AVN. The mean age of patients in the AVN and non-AVN groups was 14.3 ± 4.9 and 12.2 ± 3 months (P = 0.07); also, the mean abduction angle in patients with and without AVN was 51.86 ± 3.66 and 58.46 ± 3.91 (P < 0.001) in univariate analysis. The distribution of initial Tönnis grade, and previous conservative procedures, adductor tenotomies during the CR were comparable between the two groups (P > 0.05). We found age 12 months and 54° in abduction angle as the best cutoff values for differentiating AVN patients from non-AVN and the risk of experiencing AVN for patients older than 12 months was odds ratio (OR) =4.22 (P = 0.06) and patients with abduction angle greater than 54 was OR = 34.88 (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

In this study, older age at the time of intervention and larger abduction angle in the hip Spica cast were two predictors of experiencing AVN in DDH patients after undergoing CR treatment approach. Performing CR at a younger age and keeping the abduction angle lower than 54° in the hip Spica cast could help to have the best possible prognosis.

Level of Evidence:

IV, retrospective, observational, cross-sectional study.
DIRECTIONS FOR USING THE BIOENERGY POTENTIAL OF AGRICULTURE FOR THE PRODUCTION OF BIOMETHANE AND DIGESTATE
Authors: Yemchyk Tetiana , Pantsyreva Hanna , Gontaruk Yaroslav , Vovk Valeriia
Published: December 2023

All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of America. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, or stored in a database or retrieval system, without the prior written permission of the publisher. The content and reliability of the articles are the responsibility of the authors. When using and borrowing materials reference to the publication is required.
Modeling a Solar Power Plant with Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: ARSLAN Seren , ESEN Hikmet , AVCI Engin , CENGİZ Can
Published: December 2023

This study will enable us to estimate the power of the solar power plant with measurement data such as outdoor temperature-humidity, wind and precipitation amount, to protect the system from imbalance, and to determine the instant and daily effective energy trade more easily. By taking the data from the solar power plant installed in Samsun, Turkey, estimation was made with Artificial Neural Networks for electricity generation. In this study, Levenberg-Marguardt feed-forward backprop learning algorithm was used to find the best approach in the network. The best prediction results were obtained from the 2-layer and 5-neuron Artificial Neural Networks model, and it was observed that the system gave better training results as the number of iterations increased (multiple determination coefficient, R2, 0.99818).
Elastosonography and electrodiagnosis in relation to symptomatic and functional grading of carpal tunnel syndrome
Authors: Yahia Marwa , El Shambaky Ahmed , Lasheen Doaa
Published: December 2023

Objectives: This study focused on the symptomatic and the functional evaluation in correlations to median nerve elasticity, its ultrasound parameters, and the electrodiagnostic grading of primary carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) patients.

Patients and methods: In the case-control study, 100 wrists of 57 CTS patients (54 females, 3 males; mean age: 39±9.8 years; range, 20 to 60 years) clinically diagnosed according to the American Academy of Neurology Clinical Diagnostic Criteria were evaluated between December 2019 and December 2020. The control group included 110 nondiseased wrists of 55 sex- and age-matched healthy subjects (males 7, females 48; mean age: 35.7±10.3 years; range 20 to 58 years). Functional assessment using Hi-Ob-Db clinical scale, electrodiagnosis, ultrasonographic screening, and elasticity evaluation were done for all patients.

Results: CTS patients had an increased stiffness of the median nerve compared to controls. Functional stages were positively correlated with the ultrasonographic parameters and the electrodiagnostic stages of CTS. The elastogram of clinically diagnosed patients was revealed more stiffness of the MN, with negative electrodiagnosis results.

Conclusion: Clinically diagnosed CTS could be missed by the electrodiagnosis but then properly figured by ultrasonography and potentially graded by sonoelastography. Sonoelastography may be an effective method for early diagnosis and appropriate grading of CTS.
Notas sobre la situación actual de la Filosofía y el problema de las Humanidadesa de las Humanidades
Authors: Ordoñez García José
Published: December 2023

Este trabajo es una reflexión sobre la situación actual de la Filosofía desde el marco en el que se plantea una revisión de las llamadas "humanidades". Se ha intentado trasladar el sentido original del pensamiento, desde la definición aristotélica de Filosofía a su situación fenomenológica actual, teniendo en cuenta la fragmentación moderna de la Ciencia y la crisis del espíritu filosófico desde la llamada 'postmodernidad'. No se trata de un trabajo exhaustivo pero sí lleno de sugerencias en la medida en que se limita a establecer las ideas que subyacen a esta posible decadencia de la llamada filosofía
Artificial Intelligence: A Promising Tool to Manage Clinical Studies during Fertility
Authors: Mundhra Shakshi , Kadiri Sunil Kumar , Tiwari Prashant
Published: December 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) may be an additional catalytic instrument to manage several diseases and disorders. This review article aims to address the significant intervention of AI to manage fertility-associated clinical symptoms. Several challenges in pregnancy research lie in the necessity to consider the welfare and interests of fertile parents. In addition to that, there are several challenges to developing, designing and delivering the new drugs intended for pregnant women. Some of the AI tools perform specific subtasks within the clinical trial design process to enhance the overall performance of clinical trials. Thus, by adhering to the AI approach which can be gradually integrated into the clinical trial ecosystem. This review has also examined the difficulties that emerge when conducting trials that are intended for use during pregnancy and childhood and further, AI techniques can act as potential strategies for mitigating adverse drug reactions during trial sessions. However, Various ethical and regulatory guidelines are set up for effective trial management.
Fuzzy Power, Converter for Color Sorting System
Authors: B.Badadwar Bhakti , Awati J. S. , Kumbhar M. S.
Published: December 2023

Intelligent robot technology is currently widely applied to all facets of human production and existence. Future development must focus on using intelligent robots rather than humans to achieve automatic sorting. In the field of sorting robots, color sorting robots are a significant research object. This paper examines the color recognition principle of the TAOS Company’s TCS3200 color sensor, based on the introduction of the theory of three primary colors. It goes into detail about how important white balance is. An ATmega16 single-chip microcomputer serves as the robot's brain, color and grey sensors serve as its sense organs, and steering gears are used as its moving parts in the design of a color block sorting robot. It is capable of recognizing, organizing, and manipulating various color blocks. The technique of multiple detections and high probability results are used in color recognition, which greatly increases detection accuracy. There is a specific practical benefit to the system.