bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross Cultural Currents in Early 20th Century Chinese Architectural Practice
Authors:   Georgia Institute of Technology, Johnston George B. , Guo Wenbo ,   Georgia Institute of Technology
Published: August 2023

This paper considers the transplantation of the Western concept of architecture to China set against the backdrop of Western colonization from the mid-19th century. With the increasing presence of foreign populations, the urgent demand for a considerable number of new building types greatly spurred the Chinese construction market. Beyond consideration of the physical artifacts, this paper focuses upon the story behind the scenes, the mode of architectural production, and particularly how the intricate relationships among different professionals helped to shape the physical world. The West China Union University, constructed from 1915 through 1940s in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, serves as an apt case study to exemplify this process. A cooperative product of five missionary organizations from the United States, Britain and Canada, this project was designed by a British architect whose practice was based in England, super-intended on-site by an American architect, and constructed by local Chinese workmen. How were these professionals able to communicate and cooperate over such a long distance and across huge cultural gaps in architectural and building practice? This case study demonstrates that the relations among different actors in the field of architecture, specifically the tripartite interactions among client, architect and builder, were far more complex and nuanced than we might otherwise assume. This paper offers critical insights into the dramatic changes in the system of Chinese architectural practice under the sway of Western influence during the first half of 20th century.
From Earth to Tower: The Materialist Philosophy of Twentieth-Century Aluminum Producers
Authors:   University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Johnson Tait
Published: August 2023

The history of aluminum production in the United States is a reflection upon tangible materials, shifting power plays for ecological resources in the context of rapidly-expanding consumerism, and the focus of this paper, the perceived revolutionary properties of aluminum. Aluminum producers believed that the material possessed an extraordinary ability to solve spatial problems, represent beauty, and ultimately bring prosperity. Within this context, producers and manu¬facturers competing in the architectural products market left an indelible mark on the built environment with a wide range of components. Cladding, however, is the most visible mark. This paper follows the process of aluminum cladding production from Bauxite mine to the installation of aluminum panels on two high rise towers in the mid-twentieth century: the Alcoa Tower, Pittsburgh, 1953, and Republic National Bank, Dallas, 1954. Increased scrutiny of this process reveals an underlying philosophy of materialism similar to contemporary philosophies of “New Materialisms” which advocate the abilities of materials outside of the human domain. The producers’ materialist beliefs helped substantiate their drive to extract raw materials at great expense and with much exhaustion of natural resources, which continues today. The process of twentieth-century aluminum production involved damming the world’s largest rivers for power, claiming resources on domestic and colonial lands, and the employment of human capital. Boosted significantly by war production, in which producers manufactured aluminum air¬craft parts, gun turrets and munitions, the postwar result was often a clean, lightweight and shiny aluminum panel, contrasting sharply with the gritty production process of mining, processing and manufacturing. Yet, this contrast is precisely a manifestation of the producers’ materialist philosophy, which maintained the properties of aluminum, liberated from the earth, could help bring about a prosperous future. Such a future was a leading marketing message of producers, promoted in so-called “homes of the future” and cities of aluminum, but also made in promises that aluminum could bring about prosperity. A tall, gleaming corporate tower of aluminum symbolized the producers’ claims about the agency of aluminum. Examining the archives of Alcoa and Reynolds – the two largest domestic aluminum producers of the twentieth century, this paper explains how producers’ beliefs about material agency underpinned the vast expansion of aluminum into the building products market. Aluminum spread widely from the mid-twentieth century onward, growing in use today on a global scale. Furthermore, this paper invites a deeper look at the ways in which the beliefs about the inherent abilities of materials motivated other material producers in their contribution to architectural modernism.
Experimental considerations for integration method of Si thin-film microchips for fluidic self-assembly
Authors: Fujita Yutaka , Tanabe Katsuaki
Published: August 2023

Fluidic self-assembly is a technique in which numerous semiconductor chips are integrated spontaneously. Here, we demonstrate that the integration efficiency is significantly improved by optimizing the separation conditions and appropriately controlling the external forces to which the microchips are subjected to the solution. In particular, an external drag force was found to prevent the Si microchips from forming aggregations and prompting transfer to the Si receiver pockets. This resulted in a significant improvement in the integration selectivity. Moreover, experiments with various microchip sizes statistically determined the effect of the Si receiver chip rinse on the evaluation functions: deposition selectivity, yield, and overall yield. While rinsing was effective for fluidic self-assembly of 10 μm scale Si microchips, rinsing of 800 nm scale chips is indicated to have different integration mechanisms. Our quantitative analysis indicated the potential applicability of the fluidic self-assembly technique to the integration technologies of Si micro semiconductor devices.
COMPARISON OF PROPOFOL AND SEVOFLURANE INDUCTION FOR EASE OF LARYNGEAL MASK AIRWAY INSERTION AND PRESSOR RESPONSE IN SHORT SURGICAL PROCEDURE: AN OBERVATIONAL STUDY
Authors: Kalunke Bhagyashree , Shende Sunita , Sudhakarrao Misal Ullhas , Thanekar Sarita
Published: August 2023

Background: Sevourane, as compared with propofol, has the advantage of providing better hemodynamic stability and a smoother transition to
the maintenance phase without a period of apnea. Hence, the present study was conducted to compare the induction characteristics, ease of LMA
insertion, hemodynamic changes, and complications during LMA insertion following induction of anesthesia with inhalation of propofol and
induction with sevourane. The prospective observational study was conducted in the Material: Department of Anaesthesia at Tertiary Care
Centre in central India. Total 72 patients in the age between 18 to 60 years, of either sex, ASA grade I and II and who were scheduled for short
surgical procedures lasting for 30 min in gynecology and orthopedic surgery were enrolled in the study. Both the groups were comparable Results:
and found no signicant difference in terms of demographic data of patients including age, sex, weight, and BMI with p value of >0.05. There was
no signicant difference in both the groups in terms of hemodynamic parameters (HR, SBP, DBP and MAP) in preoperative period and during
induction. Occurrence of complications likes coughing, biting, jaw relaxation and laryngospasm during induction and LMA insertion were
comparable between two groups. There were moderate movements in 2.77% of patients in groups P and 5.55% in group S. Induction Conclusion:
with Propofol is better than induction with Sevourane for insertion of LMA in adults with respect to induction characteristics, ease of LMA
insertion with less complications during LMA insertion
ASSESSMENT OF OUTCOME WITH RESPECT TO NON INVASIVE VENTILATOR IN TYPE 1 AND TYPE 2 RESPIRATORY FAILURE IN INTENSIVE CARE UNIT
Authors: Gupta Manglesh , Khandelwal Abhijeet , Jain Piyu , Labana Navdeep
Published: August 2023

Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) represents the delivery of positive pressure to the lungs without inserting an endotracheal tube. Noninvasive
ventilation has been successfully used in patients with acute respiratory failure. It is imperative to watch for outcome of NIV in patients with acute
respiratory failure. Aim & Objective: To compare the clinical, radiological and laboratory parameters of patients being treated by non invasive
ventilation in type1 and type 2 respiratory failure. Materials and Methodology: This was a prospective study performed at tertiary care centre
over period of 1.5 year. Conclusions: Study indicates that a trial of NIV is effective in improving gas exchange, reducing intubation, and length of
stay in hospital in patients with acute respiratory failure
A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY TO ASSESS THE PREVALENCE AND TO DETERMINE THE ASSOCIATION BETWEEN SELECTED NON COMMUNICABLE DISEASES AND BEHAVIOURAL RISK FACTORS IN NORTH KARNATAKA, INDIA
Authors: L Iti Jannatbi , Sonavane Rekha , Byakod Mahesh
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Non communicable diseases contributes to morbidity and mortality affecting the productivity of the country. Objectives: 1. To assess the prevalence of selected NCDs like diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases with behavioural risk factors among adults in Gadag. 2. To determine the association between selected NCDs like diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases with behavioural risk factors among adults in Gadag. Methodology: A community based cross sectional study was conducted among 494 adults aged above 18 years for 6 months. After taking informed consent in local Kannada language the study subjects were interviewed using predesigned and pretested questionnaire. The data was analyzed by frequency, proportions and chi-square test. Results: Out of 494 the study subjects 286 (57.8%) had diabetes, 325 (65.8%) had hypertension and 6 (1.2%) had cardiovascular diseases. Conclusion: The study found the association between selected NCDs and behavioural risk factors an attempt to focus on preventive health measures.
EVALUATION OF HEARING IMPAIRMENT IN VERY LOW BIRTH WEIGHT NEONATES BY OTOACOUSTIC EMISSIONS AND BRAINSTEM EVOKED RESPONSE AUDIOMETRY
Authors: Patra Ananya , Pradhan Nishikanta , Bharatendu Kapoor Arnav , Samantaray Kabikanta
Published: August 2023

Objective: The study aimed at investigating the diagnostic performance of two sequential otoacoustic emissions and Brainstem evoked response audiometry in detecting hearing impairment in very low birth weight neonates. A Methods: total of 102 very low birth weight neonates admitted in Neonatal intensive care unit, Department of Pediatrics were screened by Distortion Product Otoacoustic Emissions (DPOAE) pre-discharge (>34 weeks post-menstrual age). At the follow up visit i.e. at 6 weeks to 3 months corrected age both DPOAE and BERA (Brainstem Evoked Response Audiometry) was done. The results showed a Male preponderance was observed in our Results: study (M: F=54:48). For the Left ear Sensitivity, Specicity, Positive Predictive Value and Negative Predictive value of OAE 1 was 100%, 78%, 8.33% and 100% respectively. For the Right ear Sensitivity, Specicity, Positive Predictive Value and Negative Predictive value was OAE 1 100%, 78.22%, 4.35% and 100% respectively. For the Left ear Sensitivity, Specicity, Positive Predictive Value and Negative Predictive value of OAE 2 was 100%, 100%, 100% and 100% respectively. For the Right ear Sensitivity, Specicity, Positive Predictive Value and Negative Predictive value was OAE 2 100%, 100%, and 99% respectively. Conclusion: Though OAE cannot replace BERA for detection of sensorineural hearing loss a 2-step sequential OAE has shown to have benecial diagnostic performance
Improving Chemical Properties of Inceptisol Media Applied with Calcite and Kiserite and its Effect on Yield and Mineral Content of Moringa Leaves (Moringa oleifera Lam.)
Authors: Indra Rahadi Yunihadi , Hapsoh Hapsoh , Wawan Wawan
Published: August 2023

This research is about the improvement of the chemical properties of Inceptisol media applied by Calcite and Kiserite and its effect on yield and mineral content of Moringa leaves (Moringa oleifera Lam.) was carried out to consider the importance of growth and productivity of Moringa plants on Inceptisol soils with high leaf Mg levels. This study aims to determine the effect of interaction and the main effect of Calcite and Kiserite treatment on improving the chemical properties of Inceptisol media, increasing the yield and mineral content of Moringa leaves. The research was conducted at Karen Nisrina Agro, Kampar Regency, with a 4x3x3 factorial Completely Randomized Design. The first factor is Calcite with 3 dose levels, 0.0 tons ha-1., 2.11 tons ha-1 and 4.22 tons ha-1. The second factor is Kiserit with 4 levels, 0.0 tons ha-1., 0.35 tons ha-1.,0.45 tons ha-1, and 0.55 tons ha-1. Observation parameters: chemical properties of the media (pH, Ca and Mg), leaf yield and stover, and leaf mineral content (Ca and Mg). Observational data were analyzed using analysis of variance at 5% significance level, followed by Duncan's multiple distance test at 5% significance level. On the chemical properties of the soil, the interaction of giving Calcite and Kiserite occurred at pH and Ca media. Calcite increases the pH and Ca media. Kieserite increases Mg and decreases Ca media. The application of Calcite and Kiserite significantly increased the yield of leaves and stover, but there was no interaction between them. For leaf mineral content, the interaction of giving Calcite and Kiserite was found in the Ca content of the leaves. Calcite and Kiserite application had no significant effect on the Ca and Mg levels of the leaves.
Projecting the Potential Budget Impact Analysis of Paliperidone Palmitate in Egyptian Adult Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Elsisi Gihan , Ezzat Mohamed , Ramadan Mohamed
Published: August 2023

Background: Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that has greater negative consequences on role functioning than many other severe chronic diseases.

Objective: We evaluated the economic impact of long-acting injections of paliperidone palmitate (PP) vs daily oral antipsychotics to treat chronic schizophrenia from a societal perspective over a 2-year period.

Methods: A static budget impact model was developed to compare PP with daily oral antipsychotics (risperidone, olanzapine, and aripiprazole) in the treatment of patients with chronic schizophrenia. Our study included treatments used during relapse and hospitalization, validated by an expert panel. The clinical parameters were extracted from the PRIDE trial. Direct medical costs and indirect costs were measured. The unit cost of drug acquisition for all medications was extracted from the public sector. One-way sensitivity analyses were conducted.

Results: The target population in our model was estimated to be 142 incident patients. In the first year, the total drug costs in Egyptian pounds (EGP) for PP and oral antipsychotics were £2.7 million and £724 004, respectively, while the total medical costs for PP and oral antipsychotics were £3 million and £5.6 million, respectively. In the second year, the total drug costs for PP and oral antipsychotics were £2.7 million and £724 004, respectively, while the total medical costs for PP and oral antipsychotics were £3 million and £5 million, respectively. The total costs for PP (£11.6 million) over 2 years were less than those of oral antipsychotics without PP (£12.7 million). PP produced an estimated budget savings of £1 046 561 (budget savings per patient per year, £3667). In addition, PP resulted in the avoidance of 18 hospitalizations per year compared with the without-PP arm. Sensitivity analyses showed that the percent of hospitalizations for both oral antipsychotics and PP had the greatest impact on the results.

Conclusion: The lower hospitalization rates associated with PP offset the increase in drug costs. PP may potentially be cost-saving compared with the standard of care in chronic schizophrenia in Egyptian representative healthcare settings. Policy makers may consider this approach to improve patient outcomes and budget sustainability.
The effect of heat treatment on the size stabilization of precision
parts made of 29NK-VI precision alloy
Authors: Golovkin Р.A.
Published: August 2023

The features of the structure of hot-rolled bars and the effect of heat treatment on the size stabilization of precision
parts made of the 29NK-VI precision alloy are analyzed.
Justification of the choice
of grips of a multifunctional gripping device for automating the technological
process of assembling micro-drives used in bioprosthetics of the upper
extremities
Authors: Bezjazychnyi V.F. , Istratov V.A. , Eliseichev E.A.
Published: August 2023

The choice of types of grips for the development of a multifunctional gripping device that makes it possible to automate
the technological process of assembling micro-drives is substantiated by analyzing the design of micro-drives manufactured
by MAXON MOTOR and FAULHABER, which are actively used in bionic prosthetics of the human hand. The analysis
of the geometric shape of the micro-drive parts is carried out and the types of grips for each of the parts are proposed.
Study of the impact of perturbations forces in a system of frictional
self-oscillations with the Van der Pol characteristic taking into account the nonlinearities
of a complex structure
Authors: Erlich B.M.
Published: August 2023

The influence of disturbing forces in a system of frictional self-oscillations with a Van der Pol characteristic is investigated.
In the differential equations of the research methodology, three types of external forces periodic disturbances are
taken into account: harmonic, impulsive and shock, as well as the presence of various types of complex nonlinearities
elastic, dissipative, or simultaneously elastic and dissipative. To reduce the amplitude of oscillations, sometimes reaching
significant values, force action is introduced into the system. Its structure and parameters are determined based on the
methods of the theory of harmonic linearization and optimal control.
Modeling assembly process based on fuzzy logic
apparatus
Authors: Ivanov A.А. , Kretinin O.V.
Published: August 2023

The modeling of assembly processes and systems is shown in order to develop solutions in conditions of uncertainty.
The concept of a fuzzy set, membership functions of fuzzy sets and operations with fuzzy sets are given. Fuzzy modeling
of assembly processes and systems in conditions of uncertainty is considered. The implementation of the selective assembly
of critical units based on intelligent systems is presented.
THE EFFECT OF CAPITAL INTENSITY, INSTITUTIONAL OWNERSHIP, AND SALES GROWTH ON TAX AVOIDANCE
Authors: Wieta Chairunesia
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this research is to examine how capital intensity, institutional ownership, and sales growth impact tax avoidance in the energy sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange between 2017 and 2021. The independent variables analyzed in this study are capital intensity, institutional ownership, and sales growth, while the dependent variable is tax avoidance. The data used for this study is secondary data, collected from the financial reports of all energy sector companies listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange during the specified time frame. The sampling method used was purposive sampling, which resulted in a total sample size of 16 energy sector companies. To analyze the data, researchers conducted multiple regression tests using SPSS 22 software. The findings show that all the independent variables in this study- capital intensity, institutional ownership, and sales growth- have a negative effect on tax avoidance.
KEYWORDS: Tax Avoidance, Liquidity, Company Size, Institutional Ownership, Sales Growth
IMPACT OF E-CIGARETTES ON THE ORAL HEALTH - LITERATURE REVIEW
Authors: Niemczyk Stanisław , Niemczyk Wojciech , Prokurat Monika , Grudnik Katarzyna , Kuleszyński Mikołaj , Niciejewska Ewelina , Lau Karolina , Kasperczyk Janusz
Published: August 2023

E-cigarettes are electronic devices used to inhale aerosols generated from the vaporization of flavored liquids. Nowadays, the use of e-cigarettes has become one of the most popular alternatives to traditional smoking. The wide variety of devices and liquids makes it challenging to assess the health effects of using e-cigarettes. During the vaporization of e-liquids, toxins, carcinogens, and various other chemicals can be released and inhaled by the user. Limited data exist regarding the potential health impact of exposure to e-vapors, primarily derived from animal studies and in vitro research. The oral tissues are the first site of direct interaction with the components of the inhaled vapor. While e-cigarettes are commonly portrayed as safer alternatives to tobacco cigarettes, little is known about the short- or long-term health effects of their use. The aim of this review is to briefly present the available data regarding the impact of chemical ingredients and toxins present in e-cigarette vapors on oral cavity cells.
The Role of The Sharia Supervisory Board In Sharia Banking In Indonesia
Authors: Adinugroho Mukhtar , Herlambang Teguh , Hakiki Moh. Saiful , Yudianto Firman
Published: August 2023

One of the characteristics that distinguishes Islamic Commercial Banks from conventional banks is the existence of a sharia supervisory board (DPS) at an independent Islamic bank and located parallel to the board of commissioners. DPS, has an important and strategic role in the implementation of sharia in Islamic Banks. DPS is responsible for ensuring that all products and procedures of Islamic Banks comply with sharia principles. This research is entirely a literature review. The purpose of this research is to find out about the role of DPS in Islamic banking. The analytical method used is content analysis method. The results of this study indicate that the DPS is an independent body consisting of muamalah sharia experts who also have knowledge in banking in Islamic financial institutions and are tasked with overseeing the implementation of the decisions of the national sharia board at these sharia financial institutions. DPS has an important and strategic role in the application of sharia principles in sharia banking. DPS is responsible for ensuring that all sharia bank products and procedures comply with sharia principles.
Evaluation of women's knowledge of human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and HPV Vaccine
Authors:   Fatma Horasan Altıntaşoğlu
Published: August 2023

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the knowledge level of women aged 18 to 45 years who applied to our clinic about HPV infection and vaccination. For this purpose, 204 women aged 18 to 45 years who applied to our clinic between 2009 and 2018 were asked to answer questions about HPV and its vaccine. A questionnaire was prepared to determine the knowledge level of the women. The answers were evaluated using the SPSS program. In the study, the mean age of the 204 participants was 27.8 years. 26 women (12.8%) reported that they had no knowledge, 60 had little knowledge (29.4%), and 98 (48.0%) had high knowledge of HPV. 20 (9.8%) also reported that they had had the HPV vaccine. In the evaluation of questions about the vaccination, 130 women (63.72%) stated that they did not have sufficient knowledge about the vaccine and did not want to get vaccinated. 30 women (14.72%) said that they had read about the risks associated with the HPV vaccine and believed that it was harmful. 24 women (11.76%) stated that they could not get vaccinated because of the cost.
Impacts of the Pandemic on Hospitality Operations: The Managerial Perspective
Authors: Günaydin Yusuf , Kozak Metin , Çinar Kevser
Published: August 2023

Despite the fact that there has been much research in the field of COVID-19 and its impacts, the existing literature has been extensively dominated by a limited time scale and departments in the hospitality industry. Therefore, this study investigates the potential short-term impacts
of a pandemic on hospitality operations, specifically relating to the revision of annual budgets and the provision of regular services and how these operations progressed in 2 years. The study aims to fill the literature gap and convey the mission to guide entrepreneurs and managers from an
industrial perspective. Data were collected twice: the first was in the early weeks of 2021while the second corresponds to the early weeks of 2022 through personal interviews with 13 general managers of hospitality businesses operating in Turkey. Findings indicate that the pandemic has substantially
changed the proposed annual budgets and hospitality operations. However, such changes have yet to be fully stable later.
Experiencias y valoración del profesorado respecto del liderazgo de docentes directivos
Authors: Jara Pacheco Jazmín , Pérez Cruz Pablo , Altamirano Soto Marcela
Published: August 2023

El ejercicio del liderazgo en la  gestión escolar es un desafío que tienen todas las escuelas en Chile y en el mundo, más aún en aquellos sistemas educativos en donde el imperativo es transitar a ciclos de mejora que apunten hacia una mayor equidad, inclusión y justicia social. Este desafío involucra no sólo potenciar habilidades y aprendizajes de los estudiantes sino también renovar y despertar motivaciones en el cuerpo docente, generando sentido de pertenencia, compromiso y responsabilidad frente al quehacer educativo. En esta investigación se indaga la experiencia y la valoración del profesorado sobre los distintos tipos de liderazgo que ejercen los docentes directivos, a través de un enfoque cualitativo y diseño fenomenológico, utilizando para ello la técnica de la entrevista en profundidad, se entrevistó a 20 profesores de diversas instituciones educativas. Entre los resultados se destaca la valoración de liderazgos de tipo instruccional y distribuido, aparece de manera incipiente el enfoque de justicia social, por sobre otros, y como el impacto que tienen los docentes directivos en la organización escolar determina cómo será el desempeño docente y la eficacia-eficiencia de la institución educativa.
Nghiên cứu hiệu quả và tính an toàn theo liều của thuốc arni (sacubitril/valsartan) ở bệnh nhân suy tim mạn có phân suất tống máu thất trái giảm
Authors: TA DONG NGUYEN
Published: August 2023

TÓM TẮT

Đặt vấn đề: Trên thực hành lâm sàng tại Việt Nam, những nghiên cứu về hiệu quả của loại thuốc này vẫn còn hạn chế. Vì thế chúng tôi tiến hành đề tài với hai mục tiêu là khảo sát đặc điểm lâm sàng, cận lâm sàng của bệnh nhân suy tim mạn tính LVEF giảm, được sử dụng ARNI và đánh giá hiệu quả, tính an toàn của ARNI ở nhóm bệnh nhân này.

Đối tượng, phương pháp: Gồm 69 bệnh nhân nhập viện vì suy tim và được chẩn đoán là suy tim mạn tính có phân suất tống máu thất trái giảm. Phương pháp nghiên cứu: Mô tả cắt ngang có theo dõi

Kết quả: Nam giới nhiều hơn nữ giới, tỷ lệ nam/nữ là 2,16. Tuổi trung bình là 60,69 ± 17,03 tuổi. Mức độ cải thiện của phân độ NYHA sau điều trị so với trước từ hai nhóm phân theo liều đều có ý nghĩa thống kê (p = 0,004). Sự thay đổi của nồng độ NT-proBNP có ý nghĩa thống kê với p < 0,01 (4931 pg/mL so với 3638 pg/mL). Đường kính tâm trương - tâm thu thất trái và phân suất tống máu thất trái có sự thay đổi theo xu hướng tốt có ý nghĩa (p < 0,01). Không có sự thay đổi của đường kính nhĩ trái và Nồng độ creatinin trước và sau điều trị không thấy có sự biến đổi có ý nghĩa.

Kết luận: ARNI có hiệu quả trong điều trị suy tim mạn tính có EF giảm: cải thiện phân độ NYHA, EF, LVDs, LVDd và giảm nồng độ NT-pro BNP theo liều và hầu như không có tác dụng phụ nào đáng kể.

ABSTRACT

DOSAGE EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF ARNI (SACUBITRIL/VALSARTAN) IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC HEART FAILURE AND REDUCED LEFT VENTRICULAR EJECTION FRACTION

Background: In Vietnamese clinical practice, studies on the effectiveness of ARNI (Sacubitril/Valsartan) are still limited. So, we conducted the study with two goals: Investigation of clinical and subclinical characteristics of patients with chronic HFrEF using ARNI and Evaluation of the dosage efficacy and safety of ARNI in these patients.

Methods: A cross - sectional description with follow - up was conducted on 69 patients hospitalized diagnosed: chronic heart failure with reduced left ventricular ejection fraction.

Results: Male were more than female, the male/female ratio was 2.16. The mean age was 60.69 ± 17.03 years old. The level of improvement of the NYHA class after treatment compared to before from the two dosage groups was statistically significant (p = 0.004). Reduce of NT-proBNP concentration was statistically significant with p < 0.01 (4931 pg/mL versus 3638 pg/mL). The left ventricular diastolic - systolic diameter and EF changed significantly (p < 0.01). There was no change in left atrial diameter and Creatinine concentration before and after treatment showed no significant change.

Conclusion: ARNI was effective in the treatment of chronic HFrEF: improving NYHA class, EF, LVDs, LVDd and reducing NT-pro BNP levels according to dose and with almost no significant side effects.
Giá trị xét nghiệm gene xpert mtb/rif đàm trong chẩn đoán lao phổi mới afb(-)
Authors: THANH BINH PHAN
Published: August 2023

TÓM TẮT

Đặt vấn đề: Xét nghiệm soi AFB đàm trực tiếp có độ nhạy không cao, dễ bỏ sót lao phổi AFB(-). Việt Nam đã triển khai XN Gene Xpert MTB/RIF như một kỹ thuật chẩn đoán nhanh bệnh lao. Đề tài nhằm đánh giá tỉ lệ lao phổi mới AFB(-), khảo sát và so sánh một số đặc điểm với lao phổi mới AFB(+); Xác định độ nhạy của XN Gene Xpert MTB/RIF trong chẩn đoán lao phổi mới AFB(-).

Đối tượng, phương pháp: Đối tượng là 328 bệnh nhân lao phổi mới gồm 202 AFB(-) và 126 AFB(+), phương pháp mô tả cắt ngang.

Kết quả: Tỉ lệ lao phổi mới AFB(-) chiếm 61,58%. So sánh với lao phổi mới AFB(+): Tỉ lệ vào các khoa khác của lao phổi mới AFB(-) cao hơn (20,09%, vs 11,11%: p < 0,01), tổn thương có hang thấp hơn (30,20% vs 41,27%: p < 0,05), tổn thương phổi độ I cao hơn (32,67% vs 20,63%: p < 0,05). Độ nhạy của XN Gene Xpert MTB/RIF đàm trong chẩn đoán lao phổi mới AFB(-) là 72,28%.

Kết luận: Độ nhạy của XN Gene Xpert MTB/RIF đàm trong chẩn đoán lao phổi mới AFB(-) là 72,28%.

ABSTRACT

VALUE OF GENE XPERT MTB/RIF SPUTUM TEST IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF NEW PULMONARY TB AFB(-)

Background: Direct sputum AFB test has low sensitivity, easy to miss AFB (-) pulmonary tuberculosis. Vietnam has deployed the Gene Xpert MTB/RIF test as a rapid diagnostic technique for tuberculosis. To evaluate the rate of new pulmonary TB AFB(-), survey and compare some characteristics with new pulmonary TB AFB(+); Determination of the sensitivity of Gene Xpert MTB/RIF test in the diagnosis of new pulmonary TB AFB(-).

Methods: Subjects were 328 new pulmonary tuberculosis patients, including 202 AFB(-) and 126 AFB(+), descriptive cross-sectional method.

Results: The rate of new pulmonary tuberculosis AFB(-) accounted for 61.58%. Compared with new pulmonary TB AFB(+): The rate of admission to other departmentsof new pulmonary TB AFB(-) is higher (20.09%, vs 11.11%: p < 0.01), lesions with cavernous lesions lower (30.20% vs 41.27%: p < 0.05), higher grade I lung injury (32.67% vs 20.63%: p < 0.05). The sensitivity of Gene Xpert MTB/RIF sputum test in the diagnosis of new pulmonary TB AFB(-) is 72.28%.

Conclusions: The sensitivity of Gene Xpert MTB/RIF sputum test in the diagnosis of new pulmonary TB AFB(-) is 72.28%.
On the ethics of researching informal urbanism
Authors: Kamalipour Hesam , Peimani Nastaran
Published: August 2023

Forms of informal urbanism, ranging from informal settlement to street vending and informal transport, have become integral to how places work across different contexts and scales. In this article, we reflect on the ethics of researching forms of urban informality, with a focus on the capacities and challenges associated with exploring informal urbanism, particularly in the context of what is considered the global South. By drawing on our experiences of investigating various forms of informality in different contexts, this article engages with ethical considerations that arise when researching informal urbanism. We argue that designing, conducting and disseminating research on forms of urban informality can pose critical ethical questions for researchers who not only strive to bring about positive change but must also exercise caution to avoid causing more harm than good by exposing individuals at risk of exploitation, eviction or displacement.

This article was published open access under a CC BY licence:
https://creativecommons.org/licences/by/4.0
.
Statistical Relationship between Long-duration High-energy Gamma-Ray Emission and Solar Energetic Particles
Authors: Bruno A. , de Nolfo G. A. , Ryan J. M. , Richardson I. G. , Dalla S.
Published: August 2023

Large solar eruptions are often associated with long-duration γ-ray emission extending well above 100 MeV. While this phenomenon is known to be caused by high-energy ions interacting with the solar atmosphere, the underlying dominant acceleration process remains under debate. Potential mechanisms include continuous acceleration of particles trapped within large coronal loops or acceleration at coronal mass ejection (CME)-driven shocks, with subsequent back-propagation toward the Sun. As a test of the latter scenario, previous studies have explored the relationship between the inferred particle population producing the high-energy γ-rays and the population of solar energetic particles (SEPs) measured in situ. However, given the significant limitations on available observations, these estimates unavoidably rely on a number of assumptions. In an effort to better constrain theories of the γ-ray emission origin, we reexamine the calculation uncertainties and how they influence the comparison of these two proton populations. We show that, even accounting for conservative assumptions related to the γ-ray flare, SEP event, and interplanetary scattering modeling, their statistical relationship is only poorly/moderately significant. However, though the level of correlation is of interest, it does not provide conclusive evidence for or against a causal connection. The main result of this investigation is that the fraction of the shock-accelerated protons required to account for the γ-ray observations is >20%–40% for six of the 14 eruptions analyzed. Such high values argue against current CME-shock origin models, predicting a <2% back-precipitation; hence, the computed number of high-energy SEPs appears to be greatly insufficient to sustain the measured γ-ray emission.
Detection of the Low-stellar-mass Host Galaxy of a z ∼ 6.25 Quasar with JWST
Authors: Stone Meredith A. , Lyu 吕 Jianwei 建伟 , Rieke George H. , Alberts Stacey
Published: August 2023

We characterize the stellar mass of J2239+0207, a z ∼ 6.25 sub-Eddington quasar (M
1450 = −24.6), using dedicated JWST/NIRCam medium-band observations of a nearby point-spread function star to remove the central point source and reveal the underlying galaxy emission. We detect the host galaxy in two bands longward of the Balmer break, obtaining a stellar mass of ∼1010
M
⊙, more than an order of magnitude less than this quasar’s existing measured [C ii] dynamical mass. We additionally calculate the mass of J2239+0207's central supermassive black hole using JWST/NIRSpec integral field unit observations, and determine that the black hole is ∼15 times more massive than predicted by the local M
BH–M
* relation, similar to many high-redshift quasars with dynamical masses determined via millimeter-wave line widths. We carefully consider potential selection effects at play, and find that even when z ∼ 6 quasars are compared to a local sample with similarly determined dynamical masses, many of the high-redshift quasars appear to possess overmassive black holes. We conclude z ∼ 6 quasars are likely to have a larger spread about the M
BH–M
* relation than observed in the local Universe.
Hidden Companions to Intermediate-mass Stars. IX. Discovery of a 1.5 M
⊙, 1 au Companion to the Primary within the Multiple HIP 57606*
Authors: Waisberg Idel , Klein Ygal , Katz Boaz
Published: August 2023

HIP 57606 is an intermediate-mass a ∼ 88 au visual binary (A+B) that also has 680 au (C) and a 120,000 au (D) companions. Here we report on a VLTI/GRAVITY interferometric observation that revealed that the primary star A is itself a close binary with a 83% K band flux ratio companion at a projected separation ρ = 14.8 mas ↔ 1.0 au. Through isochrone fitting we find masses M
Aa = 1.58M
⊙, M
Ab = 1.49M
⊙ and M
B = 1.15M
⊙ and an age 1 Gyr for the inner triple. The latter will evolve to become a double or triple white dwarf system within about 6 Gyr and which will be under the dynamical influence of the outer companion C.
Inventory of tiger- and ground-beetles (Coleoptera, Caraboidea, Cicindelidae and Carabidae) in two sampling seasons of the Gorongosa National Park, Mozambique
Authors: Serrano Artur , Baptista Martim , Carvalho Rui , Boieiro Mário , Mendes Sara , Bartz Marie , Timóteo Sérgio , Azevedo-Pereira Henrique , Aguiar Carlos , Alves da Silva António , Alves Joana , Briones Maria , Borges Paulo , Sousa José , Martins da Silva Pedro
Published: August 2023

The Gorongosa National Park (Mozambique) is one of the most emblematic protected areas in Africa, well known for its vertebrate biodiversity and restoration ecology efforts following the Mozambican civil war in 1992. The invertebrate biodiversity of Gorongosa National Park is still poorly studied, although the scarce information available indicates the existence of a rich number of species, namely in the case of tiger- and ground-beetles (Coleoptera, Caraboidea). Moreover, the study of arthropod assemblages is key for designing conservation practices since they are potentially accurate biodiversity and ecological indicators. Hence, the diversity assessment of Caraboidea beetles using standardised methodologies is likely to provide a new insight for future conservation planning and help to quantify the effects of climate change in areas identified as vulnerable to anthropogenic pressures, such as the Gorongosa National Park.

We report the occurrence of five tiger beetles (Cicindelidae) and 93 ground-beetles (Carabidae) species/morphospecies in Gorongosa National Park from a field survey funded by the ECOASSESS project. Sampling was performed in the four main habitat types present in the Park (miombo tropical forest, mixed dry forest, transitional forest and grasslands) between 25 October and 25 November 2019. In this sampling window, the turnover of Caraboidea species from the dry season to the wet season was recorded for the first time. Twenty-eight species of ground-beetles are new records to Mozambique, including three new subgenera and three new genera. Additional information on species phenology and habitat preferences is also provided.
A new species of Paracedicus Fet, 1993 (Araneae, Desidae) from Turkey
Authors: Gündüz Gökhan
Published: August 2023

The desid spider genus Paracedicus Fet, 1993 comprises seven species distributed in the western Palaearctic. From Turkey, only Paracedicus baram Levy, 2007 has been recorded so far.

A new species, Paracedicus turcicus sp. nov., is described, based on specimens of both sexes collected in Eastern Anatolia. Detailed morphological description and photographs are provided. Additionally, a key to all species of the genus and a distribution map are provided.
The impact of antimicrobial de-escalation therapy in culture-negative pneumonia: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Song Jae-Uk , Lee Jonghoo
Published: August 2023

Background/Aims: Antimicrobial de-escalation (ADE) remains a challenging strategy in the treatment of pneumonia. We investigated the outcomes of ADE as measured by mortality and duration of the use of antibiotics in patients with culture- negative pneumonia.Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The primary outcome was inpatient mortality.Results: We examined six studies comprising 11,933 subjects, of whom 1,152 received ADE. Overall, the ADE strategy was associated with a statistically lower risk of in-hospital mortality compared with non-ADE (risk ratio [RR] = 0.60, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.38 to 0.93). Although substantial heterogeneity was found among the included studies (I2 = 66%), a meta-regression analysis could not reveal plausible sources of heterogeneity. And ADE was associated with a shorter duration of total and initial antibiotic therapies and total length of hospital stay compared with non-ADE.Conclusions: Our findings suggest that ADE seems to be significantly associated with better clinical outcomes compared with non-ADE. Caution is demanded when interpreting data of this study because of substantial between-study heterogeneity.
The serotype-specific prevalence of pneumococci in hospitalized pneumonia patients with COPD: a prospective, multi-center, cohort study
Authors: Kim Jae Yeol , Jung Jae-Woo , Kang Min-Jong , Kim Deog Kyeom , Choi Hayoung , Cho Young-Jae , Jang Seung Hun , Lee Chang-Hoon , Oh Yeon Mok , Park Ji Sook
Published: August 2023

Background/Aims: The overall incidence of pneumococcal pneumonia is declining. However, the change in the pathogenic distribution of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients and the serotype specificity of Streptococcus pneumoniae have not been evaluated in the post-era of pneumococcal vaccination in Korea.Methods: We conducted a prospective, multi-center, cohort study from seven University-affiliated hospitals. The primary objective was the identification of serotype-specific prevalence of pneumococcal pneumonia in COPD patients hospitalized for CAP. For the purpose, we conducted serotype-specific urine antigen detection (SS-UAD) assays for S. pneumoniae. The secondary objectives were other clinical characteristics of pneumonia including vaccination status.Results: The total number of participants was 349. Most of them were male (95.1%) with old ages (75.55 ± 8.59 y). The positive rate for S. pneumoniae was 9.2% with SS-UAD assay and the common serotypes were 22F, 6A, and 6B. In the sputum, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (5.0%) and Haemophilus influenzae (4.0%) were common pathogens. The vaccination rate was 78.8%, 53.0%, and 25.8% for influenza, pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine 23 (PPV 23), and pneumococcal protein- conjugated vaccine 13 (PCV 13), respectively. Thirteen patients died during hospitalization (mortality rate; 3.7%). There was no difference in the respective rate of influenza vaccination (79.2% vs. 69.2%, p = 0.288) and PCV 13 vaccination (25.6% vs. 30.8%, p = 0.443) between survivors and the deceased.Conclusions: Serotypes 22F, 6A, and 6B, which are covered either by PPV 23 or by PCV 13, are still common pneumococcal serotypes in COPD pneumonia in the post-vaccination era in Korea.
Prognostic role of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Kim Jin , Song Su Hyun , Oh Tae Ryom , Suh Sang Heon , Choi Hong Sang , Kim Chang Seong , Ma Seong Kwon , Kim Soo Wan , Bae Eun Hui
Published: August 2023

Background/Aims: The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has a prognostic value in cardiovascular disease, infection, inflammatory disease, and several malignancies. Therefore, the NLR has a possible predictive value in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), but this predictive value has not been validated. Here, we aimed to investigate the possibility of NLR as a predictor of CKD progression.Methods: This retrospective observational study included 141 patients with non-dialysis CKD. The participants were divided into terciles (T1, T2, and T3) according to NLR. The primary outcome was defined as a composite kidney event, which included a decline in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of at least 50% or initiation of renal replacement therapy during the follow-up period.Results: The mean follow-up duration was 5.45 ± 2.11 years. The mean NLRs were 1.35 ± 0.05 in T1 (n = 47), 2.16 ± 0.04 in T2 (n = 47), and 4.29 ± 0.73 in T3 (n = 47). The group with the highest NLR (T3) had higher baseline CKD and serum creatinine and lower eGFR levels than the group with the lowest NLR (T1). The cumulative incidence rate of composite kidney events was significantly higher in T3 compared with T1 (p < 0.001, log-rank test). Cox regression analysis revealed that high NLR was associated with the risk of composite kidney events (adjusted hazard ratio, 3.33; 95% confidence interval, 1.43–7.76).Conclusions: A higher NLR reflects the more advanced stage of CKD and suggests a role for NLR as a biomarker for predicting CKD progression.
Investigating difficulties and enhancing understanding in linear algebra: Leveraging SageMath and ChatGPT for (orthogonal) diagonalization and singular value decomposition
Authors: Karjanto Natanael
Published: August 2023

We explored some common challenges faced by undergraduate students when studying linear algebra, particularly when dealing with algorithmic thinking skills required for topics such as matrix factorization, focusing on (orthogonal) diagonalization and singular value decomposition (SVD). To address these challenges, we introduced SageMath, a Python-based open-source computer algebra system, as a supportive tool for students performing computational tasks despite its static output nature. We further examined the potential of dynamic ChatGPT, an AI-based chatbot, by requesting examples or problem-solving assistance related to (orthogonal) diagonalization or the SVD of a specific matrix. By reinforcing essential concepts in linear algebra and enhancing computational skills through effective practice, mastering these topics can become more accessible while minimizing mistakes. Although static in nature, SageMath proved valuable for confirming calculations and handling tedious computations because of its easy-to-understand syntax and accurate solutions. However, although dynamic ChatGPT may not be fully reliable for solving linear algebra problems, the errors it produces can serve as a valuable resource for improving critical thinking skills.
An uncommon anatomic variation of the sartorius muscle in a domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris)
Authors: Viegas Katia Aparecida da Silva , Fogaça Jessica Leite , Nunes Adriane Lauro , Leal Rodrigo , Silva Ellen Satilio da , Machado Vania Maria de Vasconcelos , Filadelpho André Luis
Published: August 2023

The sartorius muscle is located in the pelvic limb of the dog and is divided into a cranial and caudal part. There is no report describing of the three parts of the sartorius muscle. The aim of the present report was to describe the presence of a third part of the sartorius muscle in a dog. Although it does not represent a malformation, it is an important anatomical variation to consider for didactic purposes of dissection and in surgeries of the pelvic limb, as in this case there is a need to move the muscles apart to maintain their integrity. Furthermore, this anatomical description is relevant for comparative purposes in this animal species.