bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homogeneous continuous-flow nitration of O-methylisouronium sulfate and its optimization by kinetic modeling
Authors: Guo Jiapeng , Su Weike , Su An
Published: June 2024

Nitration of O-methylisouronium sulfate under mixed acid conditions gives O-methyl-N-nitroisourea, a key intermediate of neonicotinoid insecticides with high application value. The reaction is a fast and highly exothermic process with a high mass transfer resistance, making its control difficult and risky. In this paper, a homogeneous continuous-flow microreactor system was developed for the nitration of O-methylisouronium sulfate under high concentrations of mixed acids, with a homemade static mixer eliminating the mass transfer resistance. In addition, the kinetic modeling of this reaction was performed based on the theory of NO2+ attack, with the activation energy and pre-exponential factor determined. Finally, based on the response surface generated by the kinetic model, the reaction was optimized with a conversion of 87.4 % under a sulfuric acid mass fraction of 94 %, initial reactant concentration of 0.5 mol/L, reaction temperature of 40 °C, molar ratio of reactants at 4.4:1, and residence time of 12.36 minutes.
The Modern Trends in Internal Auditing and Their Role in Enhancing the Efficiency and Effectiveness of Performance in Governmental Units
Authors: AL Fatlawi Layla Naji Majeed
Published: June 2024

This research aims to explore and analyze the modern trends of internal auditors in the Iraqi public sector and their role in enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of performance, with the objective of developing their professional practices. It examines how recent advancements, such as advanced technology and risk-based practices, improve the efficiency and effectiveness of internal auditing within the governmental environment. The study provides data-supported recommendations for policymakers and managers in governmental units to enhance transparency and efficiency through the adoption of best global practices. To achieve the research objective, the researcher designed a questionnaire containing (47) variables distributed across three axes. The first axis (fundamental trends of internal auditing) included (22) items covering aspects of this axis. The second axis (the contemporary role of internal auditing in risk management) comprised (3) main items and (15) sub-items covering all variables of this axis. The third axis (the reflection of internal auditing in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the economic unit) included (10) items. The study reached several conclusions, the most significant being that internal auditing according to modern trends is not limited only to assessing compliance and financial control, but its role extends to vital aspects such as risk classification, risk management evaluation, and fraud and fraud prevention. Internal auditing is a crucial tool not only in control and compliance but also in enhancing efficiency and effectiveness within institutions.
Secondary Spontaneous Pneumothorax in Former Pulmonary Tuberculosis: a Case Report
Authors: Rijal Syamsu , Aisyah Windy Nurul , Natsir Bulkis , Yasin Julian Muhammad
Published: June 2024

A 36-year-old male presented to the hospital with a chief symptom of dyspnea that began one day before admission and increased during the night upon admission. The individual does not experience nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and has regular urination and normal bowel movements. Loss of appetite and fatigue. There is no prior record of comparable grievances. The existence of a history of trauma cannot be refuted. Past medical history: The patient had pulmonary TB and completed treatment in April 2023. During the physical examination, the patient's overall condition was observed to be moderately unwell, with a clear and alert state of consciousness. Assessment of vital signs revealed a blood pressure of 117/84 mmHg, a pulse rate of 65 beats per minute, a respiratory rate of 25 breaths per minute, a body temperature of 37°C, and an oxygen saturation level of 94%. In the thoracic region, the examination reveals the following findings: - Inspection shows movement of the chest wall on the left side. - Palpation detects weakened tactile fremitus on the left side. - Percussion produces a hypersonor sound on the left side. - Auscultation reveals normal vesicular sounds on the right side and weak vesicular sounds on the left side. Rhonchi are not present, but wheezing is heard in both sides of the chest. The supporting studies yielded a complete blood count within normal range, a VCT examination showing non-reactive HIV antibodies, a TCM sputum examination with undetectable MTB findings, and a chest X-ray examination indicating left pneumothorax and active pulmonary TB.
Case Report: The Effect of Ajwa Dates on Calcium Levels in Perimenopausal Women
Authors: Rahma Muftihatur , Mappaware Nasrudin Andi , Diana Ajar
Published: June 2024

Perimenopause itself is defined as the permanent cessation of menstruation due to loss of ovarian activity confirmed by the onset of amenorrhea for 12 consecutive months in the absence of other pathological or physiological causes, occurring at the age of 42 years until menopause. In perimenopausal women, besides decreasing estrogen levels, there is also a decrease in calcium absorption which causes osteoporosis. Where dates contain iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus and potassium, but it also contains phytochemical compounds such as phytosterols and phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens have the same structure and function as endogenous estrogens that serve to exert a major effect on women on bone remodeling and also control the timing of osteoclast apoptosis. Objective : To determine the relationship between giving ajwa dates to calcium levels in perimenopausal women. Method : Literature review with narrative review design. Results : Based on several journals that have been reviewed, it can be concluded that giving ajwa dates can inhibit the decrease in bone density in elderly women, where the active substances that play a role in this are calcium and phytoestrogens. Conclusion : Giving ajwa dates can inhibit the decrease in bone density in elderly women. Keywords : ajwa date (Phoenix dactylifera L), perimenopause, calcium.
Delivery of Dust Particles from Protoplanetary Disks onto Circumplanetary Disks of Giant Planets
Authors: Maeda Natsuho , Ohtsuki Keiji , Suetsugu Ryo , Shibaike Yuhito , Tanigawa Takayuki , Machida Masahiro N.
Published: June 2024

The principal regular satellites of gas giants are thought to be formed by the accumulation of solid materials in circumplanetary disks (CPDs). While there has been significant progress in the study of satellite formation in CPDs, details of the supply of satellite building blocks to CPDs remain unclear. We perform the orbital integration of solid particles in the protoplanetary disk (PPD) approaching a planet, considering the gas drag force by using the results of three-dimensional hydrodynamical simulations of a local region around the planet. We investigate the planetary mass dependence of the capture positions and the capture rates of dust particles accreting onto the CPD. We also examine the degree of dust retention in the accreting gas onto the CPD, which is important for determining the ratio of the dust-to-gas inflow rates, a key parameter in satellite formation. We find that the degree of dust retention increases with increasing planetary mass for a given dust scale height in the PPD. In the case of a small planet (M
p = 0.2M
Jup), most particles with insufficient initial altitudes in the PPD are isolated from the gas in the accreting region. On the other hand, in the case of a massive planet (M
p = 1M
Jup), dust particles can be coupled to the vertically accreting gas, even when the dust scale height is about 10%–30% of the gas scale height. The results of this study can be used for models of dust delivery and satellite formation in the CPDs of gas giants of various masses, including exoplanets.
Revisiting the Dust Torus Size–Luminosity Relation Based on a Uniform Reverberation-mapping Analysis
Authors: Mandal Amit Kumar , Woo Jong-Hak , Wang Shu , Rakshit Suvendu , Cho Hojin , Son Donghoon , Stalin C. S.
Published: June 2024

We investigate the torus size–luminosity relation of Type 1 active galactic nuclei (AGNs) based on the reverberation-mapping analysis using the light curves of the optical continuum and the IR continuum obtained with the W1 and W2 bands of the Wide-field Infrared Survey Explorer survey. The final sample consists of 446 and 416 AGNs, respectively, for W1- and W2-band light curves, covering a large dynamic range of bolometric luminosity from 1043.4 to 1047.6 erg s−1, which show reliable lag measurements based on our quality assessment analysis. After correcting for the accretion disk contamination in the observed IR flux, we constrain the torus size (R
dust) and AGN bolometric luminosity (L
bol) relationship with the best-fit slope of 0.39 (0.33) for the W1 (W2) band, which is shallower than expected from the dust radiation equilibrium model. By combining the previous K-band lag measurements, we find that the measured torus size depends on the observed wavelength of the dust radiation, as R
dust,K
: R
dust,W1: R
dust,W2 = 1.0:1.5:1.8 (R
dust ∝ λ
0.80) at L
bol = 1046 erg s−1, confirming a stratified structure of the torus, where wavelength-dependent emissions originate from distinct regions of the torus. By investigating the deviation from the best-fit torus size–luminosity relation, we find a moderate correlation between the offset from the R
dust–L
bol relation and Eddington ratio. This suggests a possible influence of the Eddington ratio on the observed flattening of the R
dust–L
bol relationship.
Spectropolarimetric Radio Imaging of Faint Gyrosynchrotron Emission from a CME: A Possible Indication of the Insufficiency of Homogeneous Models
Authors: Kansabanik Devojyoti , Mondal Surajit , Oberoi Divya
Published: June 2024

The geo-effectiveness of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) is determined primarily by their magnetic fields. Modeling of gyrosynchrotron (GS) emission is a promising remote sensing technique to measure the CME magnetic field at coronal heights. However, faint GS emission from CME flux ropes is hard to detect in the presence of bright solar emission from the solar corona. With high dynamic-range spectropolarimetric meter wavelength solar images provided by the Murchison Widefield Array, we have detected faint GS emission from a CME out to ∼8.3 R
⊙, the largest heliocentric distance reported to date. High-fidelity polarimetric calibration also allowed us to robustly detect circularly polarized emission from GS emission. For the first time in the literature, Stokes V detection has jointly been used with Stokes I spectra to constrain GS models. One expects that the inclusion of polarimetric measurement will provide tighter constraints on the GS model parameters. Instead, we found that homogeneous GS models, which have been used in all prior works, are unable to model both the total intensity and circular polarized emission simultaneously. This strongly suggests the need for using inhomogeneous GS models to robustly estimate the CME magnetic field and plasma parameters.
Partial spike gene sequencing for the identification of SARS-CoV-2 variants circulating in Cameroon in 2021
Authors: Monamele Chavely Gwladys , Sadeuh-Mba Serge Alain , Ilouga Pauliana Vanessa , Moumbeket Moïse Henri Y , Messanga Loique Landry E , Mounchili Njifon Aristide , Madaha Estelle L , Njankouo Ripa M , Tagnouokam-Ngoupo Paul Alain , Tchatchueng Jules Brice M , Tejiokem Mathurin Cyrille , Perraut Ronald , Eyangoh Sara , Njouom Richard
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Global monitoring of severe acute respiratory syndrome related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) genetic sequences and associated metadata is essential for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) response. Therefore, Sanger's partial genome sequencing technique was used to monitor the circulating variants of SARS-CoV-2 in Cameroon.
Methodology: Nasopharyngeal specimen was collected from persons suspected of SARS-CoV-2 following the national guidelines between January and December 2021. All specimens with cycle threshold (Ct) below 30 after amplification were eligible for sequencing of the partial spike (S) gene of SARS-CoV-2 using the Sanger sequencing method.
Results: During the year 2021, 1481 real time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) SARS-CoV-2 positive samples were selected for partial sequencing of the S gene of SARS-CoV-2. Amongst these, 878 yielded good sequencing products. A total of 231 probable variants (26.3%) were identified. The variants were mainly represented by Delta (70.6%), Alpha (15.6%), Omicron (7.4%), Beta (3.5%), Mu (1.7%) and Gamma (0.4%). Phylogenetic analysis of the probable variants from Cameroon with reference strains confirmed that all prior and current variants of concern (VOC) clustered with their respective reference sequences.
Conclusions: The surveillance strategy implemented in Cameroon, based on partial sequencing of the S gene enabled identification of the major circulating variants and provided information on the distribution of these variants, which contributed to implementing public health measures to control disease spread in the country.
Implementation of a Culturally Sensitive Caring-Based Nursing Service Model Increasing Patient Satisfaction in Hospitals
Authors: Mau Aemilianus , Haryati Tutik Sri , Novieastari Enie , Gayatri Dewi
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND: Culturally sensitive caring-based nursing services yield numerous benefits for patients, nurses, and hospitals. One of the advantages hospitals derive is enhanced patient satisfaction and loyalty, leading to financial benefits.
AIM: The aim of this study was to assess the impact of culturally sensitive caring-based nursing services on patient satisfaction in hospitals.
METHODS: Quasi-experimental pre-post-test control group design. The sample consisted of inpatients that were purposefully selected. The formula for the difference in proportions between the two groups was used to determine the sample size, yielding a total sample of 360 people, 180 in the intervention group and 180 in the control group. The intervention group received model socialization, module books, and 2 months of assistance with model implementation practices, while the control group only received module books without socialization and assistance. Data collection utilized a patient satisfaction questionnaire developed from the Swanson caring instrument, validated for reliability. Data analysis involved independent sample t-tests to ascertain differences in patient satisfaction between the intervention and control groups, and the general linear model repeated measure (GLM-RM) test to assess the development of patient satisfaction during the intervention and the model’s contribution to its increase.
RESULTS: The independent t-test yielded a p = 0.0001 <0.05, signifying a significant difference in patient satisfaction between the intervention and control groups. The GLM-RM test demonstrated a Partial Eta Squared value of 0.715, indicating that the model contributed to a 71.50% increase in patient satisfaction, with the remainder influenced by other variables.
CONCLUSION: Culturally sensitive caring-based nursing services enhance patient satisfaction in hospitals. Suggestion: This model can be implemented across hospitals.
What is the variant of fractal dimension under addition of functions with same dimension and related discussions
Authors: Zhang Ruhua , Xiao Wei
Published: June 2024

This paper attempts to explore possible box dimension of two added fractal continuous functions with the same dimension. Two interesting and meaningful results are obtained. Let $ g(x) $ and $ h(x) $ have the same box dimension $ t\; (1 < t\leq 2) $, the box dimension of $ g(x)+h(x) $ may or may not exist. If it exists, it can take an arbitrary real number $ \gamma $ satisfying $ 1 < \gamma\leq t $. If it does not exist, its lower and upper box dimensions can reach arbitrary different real numbers $ t_1\; {\rm and}\; t_2 $ that satisfy $ 1 < t_1 < t_2 < t\leq 2 $. These unexpected conclusions drive us to probe into the characteristics of collection of all fractal continuous functions with the same box dimension under ordinary linear operations (scalar multiplication and addition). Following the known fractal features of some typical fractal functions such as the Weierstrass function $ W_t(x) $, we classify the fractal functions into three types: consistent fractal functions, non-consistent fractal functions, and simple fractal functions. By utilizing these classifications and fractal feature descriptions, the causality of the box dimension of two added fractal functions can be partially revealed. We hope that these initial superficial discussions will lead deeper consideration on the essence of variants of fractal dimension under linear combinations of fractal functions. Moreover, these fractal features may be applied further in other fields of fractals.
Generalized $ (\alpha_s, \xi, \hbar, \tau) $-Geraghty contractive mappings and common fixed point results in partial $ b $-metric spaces
Authors: Chang Ying , Guan Hongyan
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we introduce two new classes of mixed $ (\mathcal{S, T}) $-$ \alpha $-admissible mappings and interspersed $ (\mathcal{S}, \mathfrak{g}, \mathcal{T}) $-$ \alpha $-admissible mappings and study the sufficient conditions for the existence and uniqueness of a common fixed point of generalized $ (\alpha_s, \xi, \hbar, \tau) $-Geraghty contractive mapping in the framework of partial $ b $-metric spaces. We also provide two examples to show the applicability and validity of our results. Moreover, we present an application to the existence of solutions to an integral equation by means of one of our results.
Stability analysis of an explicit numerical scheme for the Allen-Cahn equation with high-order polynomial potentials
Authors: Choi Jaeyong , Ham Seokjun , Kwak Soobin , Hwang Youngjin , Kim Junseok
Published: June 2024

The Allen-Cahn (AC) model is a mathematical equation that represents the phase separation process. The AC equation has numerous applications in various disciplines, such as image processing, physics, and biology. It models phase transitions, such as solidification and grain growth in materials, pattern formation in chemical reactions, and domain coarsening in biological systems like lipid membranes. Numerical methods are crucial for solving the AC equation due to its complexity and nonlinear nature. Analytical solutions are often extremely difficult to obtain. Therefore, the development of efficient numerical techniques is indispensable for approximating solutions and studying phase transitions, material behavior, and pattern formation accurately. We investigate the stability of an explicit finite difference method (FDM) used to numerically solve the two-dimensional (2D) AC model with a high-order polynomial potential, which was recently proposed to preserve a more intricate structure of interfaces. To demonstrate the precision and optimal estimate of our stability constraints, we conduct various computational tests using the derived time step formulas that ensure the maximum principle.
Population Responses of Blueback Herring to Dam Passage Standards and Additive Mortality Sources
Authors: Stich D. , Eakin W. , Kenney G.
Published: June 2024

The management of anadromous fishes is inherently complicated because this suite of species exhibits complex life histories in multiple habitats and is subject to varying natural and anthropogenic influences during discrete ontogenetic periods. Fishery scientists and managers often adopt life history–based simulation models to help understand potential effects of management decisions on fish populations while incorporating uncertainty in life history, climate, and other components of resource management systems. We applied one such model to Blueback Herring Alosa aestivalis in the Hudson River watershed, New York, USA. Our goal was to better understand influences of historical habitat loss on anadromous fishes and determine to what extent and under what conditions novel habitat created by canal infrastructure might confer increased population abundance. We found that access to historical habitat in the upper Hudson River increased population abundance at all upstream dam passage rates with sufficient downstream survival of adult and juvenile Blueback Herring but that abundance decreased with increasing upstream passage relative to the “no passage” scenario when downstream survival through dams was not sufficiently high. Access to novel spawning habitat in the Mohawk River canal system resulted in increased abundance of Blueback Herring when downstream survival of adults and juveniles was at least 0.80/dam, and both upstream passage and probability of using the Mohawk River were greater than approximately 0.25. Both mortality during upstream passage of locks in the Mohawk River and marine fishery mortality had the potential to reduce Blueback Herring abundance below historical population abundance, despite access to novel spawning habitat. These results highlight the complexity associated with effects of upstream and downstream fish passage standards on population responses while emphasizing similarities observed in other diadromous species and watersheds.
Applications of Underwater Video for Imperiled Fish Species Population Monitoring
Authors: Mollenhauer Robert , Bean Megan G. , Chilleri Dominik , Bean Preston T.
Published: June 2024

Common freshwater fish sampling methods (e.g., seining and electrofishing) are inherently invasive and often not appropriate for imperiled species. Visual observation methods provide a noninvasive alternative for population monitoring. Despite increasing popularity, the use of underwater video to monitor imperiled fishes is relatively unexplored. We evaluated the efficacy of underwater video to estimate occurrence and abundance of the imperiled Comanche Springs Pupfish Cyprinodon elegans using both point observations and time intervals (surveys). We deployed camera traps at sites within major habitat types (pool, canal, and ciénaga) of Balmorhea State Park, Texas, United States, in March and October 2019 (seasons). We detected Comanche Springs at all occupied sites in both seasons when viewing ∼30 min of video. The species was detected at 80% of occupied sites when viewing ∼10 min and ∼5 min of video in March and October, respectively. Comanche Springs Pupfish detection probability was higher in October, with no variability among habitat types. On average, cumulative species detection probability was >0.9 with 15 60-s surveys. However, species detection probability of a single survey ranged from 0.02 to 0.62 (mean = 0.14). Although there was no variation between seasons or among habitats, variation was high in the detection of the maximum Comanche Springs Pupfish count among sites even with observations every 5 s. Individual capture probability from a repeated-count abundance model was less variable than species detection probability (0.01–0.33) and generally low (mean = 0.06). Site absolute abundance was generally comparable among major habitats but with higher uncertainty with increasing maximum count. Our study provides a comprehensive assessment of underwater video for imperiled fish species population monitoring. The findings show a trade-off between processing effort and information loss and limitations associated with imperfect detection and individual capture common to any fish sampling method.
El drama romàntic i la seva paròdia: el Jaume I de Pitarra Don Jaume el Conqueridor i L'engendrament de Don Jaume
Authors: Massip Francesc
Published: June 2024

La parodie est l'apport le plus original de Frederic Soler au théâtre catalan. On analyse ici deux pièces de jeunesse du célèbre dramaturge, de l'époque où il était connu sous le nom de Serafí Pitarra. L’une, Don Jaume el Conqueridor (1862), parodiait le drame romantique en général et, en particulier, une œuvre homonyme, en castillan, d'Antoni Altadill, de Tortosa. Pièce emblématique de l'étape facétieuse de Soler, elle devint la comédie la plus populaire et la plus connue de Pitarra, qui faisait écho au malaise provoqué par la guerre coloniale d'Afrique. L’autre, L’engendrament de Don Jaume, faute de s'inspirer d'un texte sérieux, traduit un certain manque d'inspiration et d'ingéniosité. L'une et l'autre laissent paraître une moquerie voilée de la monarchie des Bourbons.
Du régime onirique des jeux vidéo : images et jeu au gré des songes
Authors: Baychelier Guillaume
Published: June 2024

Cet article s’attache à analyser le régime onirique des jeux vidéo, c’est-à-dire la capacité du médium vidéoludique à s’offrir comme une expérience hallucinatoire jouant de la confusion entre perception et sensation. Après un bref état des lieux des représentations du rêve en jeu vidéo (de Super Mario Bros. 2 à Catherine), cet article s’arrête sur l’esthétique hallucinée du jeu vidéo Alice Madness: Returns pour y discerner les ressorts perceptifs au cœur de l’expérience ludique proposée. Ensuite, cette étude analyse les spécificités du jeu Get Even afin d’en décrypter la proposition ludique et expérientielle. Il y est question du rapport entre le régime perceptif propre au rêve et celui relatif à l’expérience des espaces numériques navigables, tout particulièrement dans le cadre de la réalité virtuelle. Cette étude tente d’appréhender et de décrire à la fois les dimensions esthétiques et plastiques de cette approche.
Repercussão do insider trading ilegal no mercado de capitais e o grau de penalidade: um comparativo entre Brasil e EUA
Authors: Ventura Ana Flávia Albuquerque , Decourt Roberto Frota , Ventura Júnior Raul , De Alencar Lucas Vieira Pereira , Alves Paulo César Barbosa
Published: June 2024

Objetivo: Este estudo tem por objetivo analisar a relação entre a repercussão do insider trading ilegal no mercado de capitais e o grau de penalidade em companhias brasileiras e norte americanas.Método: Essa pesquisa se caracteriza como descritiva, com análise quantitativa, por meio dos testes estatísticos do Qui-quadrado de Pearson e Mann-Whitney. O levantamento de dados foi realizado por meio de busca de casos de insider trading em sites governamentais do Brasil e Estados Unidos, CVM e SEC, respectivamente, além de pesquisas em sites de notícias. O período investigado considerou os anos entre 2000 até 2021, cujo amostra consiste em cento e trinta casos de insider trading ilegal.Originalidade/relevância: Este trabalho se diferencia por mostrar as consequências do insider trading em comparação às penalizações desse ato ilegal em ambientes institucionais distintos.Resultados: Os achados deste estudo mostram que a relação entre a repercussão do insider trading no mercado de capitais com a penalidade é maior em países com menor proteção ao acionista, não se rejeitando a hipótese do estudo, corroborando com a literatura teórica. Adicionalmente, observou-se que há diferença estatística na penalidade aplicada, já que nos Estados Unidos existe um maior enforcement do que no Brasil, influenciada pela realidade institucional diferenciada destes dois países.Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas/práticas: As evidências apresentadas sinalizam aos órgãos reguladores brasileiros a importância de dar uma maior atenção quanto ao conteúdo das leis e a qualidade de sua aplicação com o intuito de aumentar a confiabilidade dos investidores. Como sugestão para futuras pesquisas, recomenda-se aumentar a quantidade de casos investigados ou outro critério diferenciador, como o período e a quantidade de países.
Orçamento e indicadores de desempenho em uma instituição federal de educação
Authors: Martins Andreia Dulce , Lavarda Carlos Eduardo Facin
Published: June 2024

Objetivo: Analisar a percepção dos gestores sobre a inclusão de indicadores de desempenho, dispostos na Plataforma Nilo Peçanha, em uma matriz para distribuição de recursos orçamentários de uma Instituição Ensino Superior (IES) às suas unidades acadêmicas.Método: Esta pesquisa possui natureza qualitativa e descritiva. Os dados foram coletados dados por meio de documentos institucionais, realizou-se entrevistas e aplicou-se questionários com 19 gestores do caso estudado. Os dados foram triangulados e foi aplicada a técnica de análise de conteúdo temática.Originalidade: Evidenciar as percepções dos gestores acerca do modelo de distribuição orçamentário, bem como a proposição de um novo modelo sob a luz da New Public Management (NPM).Resultados: Os resultados foram apresentados em seis categorias, as quais destacam a carência de critérios objetivos no modelo atual de distribuição de recursos orçamentários.Contribuições teóricas/metodológicas/práticas: Esta pesquisa avança na literatura ao considerar elementos de desempenho na discussão da alocação orçamentária das IES. Ainda, contribui para a literatura de NPM e possibilita a implantação do modelo a fim de tornar as ações orçamentárias mais equitativas, eficientes e transparentes.
TiO2- Polyurethane Cocopol Blend Nanocomposites as an Anticorrosion Coating for Mild Steel
Authors: Ruda Archie Gomera , Bonilla Marjune Tamayo , Ubas Kurt Sterling M. , Tilendo Amierson C. , Estrada Dave Joseph E. , Capangpangan Rey , Cumba Rey Marc T. , Labis Joselito P. , Sayson Noel Lito B. , Alguno Arnold C.
Published: June 2024

Mild steels were the most frequently used materials in industries and factories since it possesses unique properties but due to weak environmental changes, these cause deterioration and corrosion to the materials’ surface. To prevent such, protective coatings were applied to protect against corrosion in which by incorporating titanium nanoparticles in polyurethane coatings. Titanium nanoparticles were synthesized using titanium butoxide as a precursor. The obtained nanoparticles were used as an inhibitor mixed with coconut oil-based polyurethane polyol blend against the corrosion on mild steel of 3.5% of sodium chloride solution which has been investigated using the Tafel polarization technique. The polarization curves of the corrosion potential for bare mild steel, along with different amounts of titanium nanoparticles coating, exhibit a positive shift. This shift indicates that the coating film effectively reduces the transport path for the corrosive solution, providing a protective barrier against corrosion. This observation is further supported by the results of the adhesive strength test, which demonstrates that the attachment of the coating films to the metal increases with higher amounts of titanium nanoparticles. This indicates improved adhesion and a stronger bond between the coating and the substrate, enhancing the overall corrosion resistance. The increase of contact angle test confirms the improvement of the coating’s hydrophobicity with the addition of titanium nanoparticles. This suggests that the coating repels water more effectively, further contributing to its protective properties against corrosion. Results also show that the addition of 4wt% of titanium nanoparticles has better anti-corrosion properties than the PU CCP alone, and 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0wt% of titanium added.
Effect of Adding Minor Cu Amounts on Stability of Constituent Phases in AlxCrFeMnNi High Entropy Alloy Microstructure
Authors: Navazani Mohammad , Kada Sitarama Raju , Fabijanic Daniel , Barnett Matthew R.
Published: June 2024

A family of AlxCuyCrFeMnNi (x=0, 0.15, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9 and y=0, 0.07, 0.14) high entropy alloys (HEA) were arc cast and then heat treated for 24h at 1100֯C-1150֯C followed by water quench. The microstructure of low Al alloys (Al0Cux and Al0.15Cux) consisted of FCC and BCC phases. Al0.3Cux showed an additional ordered precipitate phase. High Al alloys (Al0.6Cux and Al0.9Cux) consisted of two BCC phases rich in Cr-Fe and Ni-Al. In the present study, the phases formed in the microstructures were evaluated in light of valence electron concentration (VEC), Hume-Rothery (H-R) and degree of partitioning. Although VEC successfully predicts the impact of Al and Cu on the trend of FCC-BCC phase formation, the parameter does not accurately predict the structure of high Al alloys. A good agreement was observed between H-R rules prediction and the experiments which might be ascribed to the high temperature equilibrium phases developed by the heat treatment. As per these criteria, increasing Cu (up to 3at.%) and decreasing Al promote formation of solid solution phases. Adding minor amounts of Cu avoids the Cu partitioning that besets high Cu HEAs.
Mitigation of Erosion Wear Produced by Fly-Ash Slurry on 900 Elbow by Changing the Cross-Section Shape and Area Ratio
Authors: Ananya Latchupatula , Patel Vivek Kumar
Published: June 2024

The predominant method of transporting fly ash involves conveying it in slurry form through pipelines within diverse industrial facilities. The key elements of slurry conveyance encompass bends, pumps, and valves. These components of the pipeline endure significant erosion and wear due to the impact of discrete particles. In this investigation, the study assessed the wear induced by slurry erosion in conventional 900 pipe bend and 900 square section elbows of different area ratios using ANSYS Fluent. The discrete phase model was used to estimate the slurry erosion wear for the fly ash-water suspension. From the investigation, the outcomes from the standard k-turbulence model were discovered to be in agreement with the experimental data. This study also looked at a number of other influencing factors, such as the solid concentration and velocity. The analysis reveals that the average erosion wear is lower in the square cross-section elbow compared to the standard elbow. Furthermore, the erosion wear is observed to decrease further with an increase in the cross-sectional area of the square section elbow.
The Impact of International Financial Reporting Standards Adoption on Value-Relevance of Earnings in Listed Companies of the Plantation Sector in Sri Lanka
Authors: Wijekoon H. M. U. , Perera R. K. D. , Perera I. A. M. M. , Athauda A. G. K. G. K. , Yasas T. D. L. , Udeshika S. A. , Hewage P. M. , Ranasinghe R. A. H. K. , KandanaArachchi V. R. , Indunuwan G. W. C. , Senaratne D. S. N. P.
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the impact of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) adoption on value-relevance of earnings in listed companies of the plantation sector in Sri Lanka. The main objective is to identify whether the value of earnings has increased after the adoption of IFRSs in listed companies of the plantation sector in Sri Lanka. In order to investigate the impact of IFRS adoption on the value-relevance of earnings in the listed companies this study used a panel data regression analysis of 144 firms per quarter observations of share prices and earnings per share (EPS) over a period of six years before and after the adoption of IFRSs. In addition to earnings, the size of the firm and its leverage were also considered as moderating variables in explaining the share prices. The results indicate that the value-relevance of earnings had decreased after the adoption of IFRSs.
Area of admission and short-term care: is it still possible after the COVID pandemic?
Authors: Serafini Francesco , Vettore Elia , Presotto Fabio
Published: June 2024

Dear Editor, Since 2011, the Internal Medical Unit of Ospedale dell’Angelo, Mestre, has been equipped with an area of eight beds which served as a short-stay unit called area di accoglimento e degenza breve (area of admission and short-term care, ADB). All patients coming from the emergency room (99%) passed through the ADB area. Here, doctors and nurses carried out an initial clinical care triage to identify patients with features that made the discharge possible within 72 hours. [...]
The politics of a South African catholic student movement
Authors: Allen G.R.
Published: June 2024

No abstract available.
South Africa: A modern history
Authors: Prinsloo P.J.J.
Published: June 2024

No abstract available.
The Table Mountain book
Authors: Roux Anton
Published: June 2024

No abstract available.
The governership of sir Benjamin D'Urban at the Cape of Good Hope, 1834-1838
Authors: Van Aswegen H.J.
Published: June 2024

No abstract available.
The bouquet of freedom: social and economic relations in the Stellenbosch district, South Africa. c.1870-1900
Authors: Venter C.
Published: June 2024

No abstract available.
Origins of Empangeni: Rev. Aldin Grout's mission station Inkanyesi on the Mpangeni river May 1984 - 25 July 1842
Authors: Cubbin A.E.
Published: June 2024

From June 1840 till July 1842 Rev. Aldin Grout carried out mission work among the Zulus in Natal. His headquarters were at Inkanyesi (the origin of present day Empangeni). The conditions under which he operated were difficult. The relationship between Grout and the Zulu king, Mpande, deteriorated rapidly as a results of Grout's arrogant attitude and Mpande's mistrust of Grout's motives. Specifically, Grout's action in encouraging Zulus to settle on the mission station under his care provoked Mpande's attack on and destruction of Inkanyesi.
The Albany journals of Thomas Shone
Authors: Cope R.L.
Published: June 2024

No abstract available.
Assessment of BMI in obese patients after semiconductor laser acupuncture therapy
Authors: Mohamed Nagwa H. , Zikri Emad N. , Ali Asmaa , Elsheikh Mai S.
Published: June 2024

Background/aim

There is an urgent need to diminish BMI due to the increased prevalence of chronic critical diseases accompanied by overweight and obesity. Laser acupuncture (LA) is a complementary modality that might lower the BMI by diminishing the abdominal and visceral adipose tissue content and influencing the regulation of the lipid metabolism process. It is a painless tool which is almost free from side effects. The aim of the present study is to assess the BMI in obese patients after semiconductor LA therapy.

Patients and methods

This is a randomized clinical trial study that enrolled 111 obese patients who visited the Acupuncture and Laser Clinic, Excellence Medical Centre, National Research Centre, Cairo, Egypt. They received 19 successive LA sessions for 2 months without any intervention concerning their routine lifestyle. Low-level laser irradiation was applied at certain acupuncture points according to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Laser parameters were wavelength 850 nm, and power density 200 mW. Calculated energy 6 J/cm2 for 24 s per acupoints. The anthropometric measurements were done on all participants before and after the end of LA sessions.

Results

The present result indicated that there is a significant decrease in weight (P<0.05), with a percent of changes –5.8%. Additionally, the BMI showed a significant decrease (P<0.05), with a percent of changes –6.1% after 2 months of stimulated LA sessions compared to before laser therapy. Also, more than 15 sessions gave 95% sensitivity, 100% specificity for successful significant response, and the number of LA sessions had a significant good utility in predicting successful responses in weight reduction and BMI management.

Conclusion

The upgrading of the conducted LA sessions had a promising value in different grades of obesity and was safely applicable for BMI management.
Application of neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and red blood cell distribution width in diabetes mellitus complicated with heart failure
Authors: Pang Jie , Qian Lin-Yan , Lv Ping , Che Xiao-Ru
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Accumulating clinical evidence has shown that diabetes mellitus (DM) is a serious risk factor for cardiovascular disorders and an important factor for adverse cardiovascular events.

AIM

To explore the value of the combined determination of the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and red blood cell distribution width (RDW) in the early diagnosis and prognosis evaluation of DM complicated with heart failure (HF).

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed clinical data on 65 patients with type 2 DM (T2DM) complicated with HF (research group, Res) and 60 concurrent patients with uncomplicated T2DM (control group, Con) diagnosed at Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital between January 2019 and December 2021. The NLR and RDW values were determined and comparatively analyzed, and their levels in T2DM + HF patients with different cardiac function grades were recorded. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were plotted to determine the NLR and RDW values (alone and in combination) for the early diagnosis of HF. The correlation between NLR and RDW with the presence or absence of cardiac events was also investigated.

RESULTS

Higher NLR and RDW levels were identified in the Res vs the Con groups (P < 0.05). The NLR and RDW increased gradually and synchronously with the deterioration of cardiac function in the Res group, with marked differences in their levels among patients with grade II, III, and IV HF (P < 0.05). ROC curve analysis revealed that NLR combined with RDW detection had an area under the curve of 0.915, a sensitivity of 76.9%, and a specificity of 100% for the early diagnosis of HF. Furthermore, HF patients with cardiac events showed higher NLR and RDW values compared with HF patients without cardiac events.

CONCLUSION

NLR and RDW were useful laboratory indicators for the early diagnosis of DM complicated with HF, and their joint detection was beneficial for improving diagnostic efficiency. Additionally, NLR and RDW values were directly proportional to patient outcomes.
Efficacy of recombinant human epidermal growth factor plus sodium hyaluronate eye drops in diabetic dry eye post-cataract surgery
Authors: Li Jun-Ling , Zhao Jin , Guo Zhen-Feng , Xiao Chang , Liu Xuan
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Dry eye syndrome (DES) after diabetic cataract surgery can seriously affect the patient’s quality of life. Therefore, effective alleviation of symptoms in patients with this disease has important clinical significance.

AIM

To explore the clinical effect of recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) plus sodium hyaluronate (SH) eye drops on DES after cataract surgery in patients with diabetes.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 82 patients with diabetes who experienced DES after cataract surgery at Tianjin Beichen Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Nankai University between April 2021 and April 2023. They were classified into an observation group (42 cases, rhEGF + SH eye drops) and a control group (40 cases, SH eye drops alone), depending on the different treatment schemes. The thera-peutic efficacy, dry eye symptom score, tear film breakup time (TFBUT), basic tear secretion score [assessed using Schirmer I test (SIt)], corneal fluorescein staining (FL) score, tear inflammatory markers, adverse reactions during treatment, and treatment satisfaction were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Therapeutic efficacy was higher in the observation group compared with the control group. Both groups showed improved TFBUT and dry eye, as well as improved SIt and FL scores after treatment, with a more pronounced improvement in the observation group. Although no marked differences in adverse reactions were observed between the two groups, treatment satisfaction was higher in the observation group.

CONCLUSION

rhEGF + SH eye drops rendered clinical benefits to patients by effectively ameliorating dry eye and visual impairment with favorable efficacy, fewer adverse reactions, and high safety levels. Thus, this treatment should be promoted in clinical practice.
Accuracy of FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring in patients with type 2 diabetes who migrated from highlands to plains
Authors: Sun Zeng-Mei , Du Yuan-Ze , Wang Su-Yuan , Sun Shu-Yao , Ye Yan , Sun Xue-Ping , Li Ming-Xia , He Hua , Long Wun-Chun , Zhang Cheng-Hui , Yao Xuan-Yu , Fan Wu-Yi , Wang Ling , Wu Yun-Hong
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

The FreeStyle Libre flash glucose monitoring (FGM) system entered the Chinese market in 2017 to complement the self-monitoring of blood glucose. Due to its increased usage in clinics, the number of studies investigating its accuracy has increased. However, its accuracy has not been investigated in highland popu-lations in China.

AIM

To evaluate measurements recorded using the FreeStyle Libre FGM system compared with capillary blood glucose measured using the enzyme electrode method in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) who had migrated within 3 mo from highlands to plains.

METHODS

Overall, 68 patients with T2D, selected from those who had recently migrated from highlands to plains (within 3 mo), were hospitalized at the Department of Endocrinology from August to October 2017 and underwent continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) with the FreeStyle Libre FGM system for 14 d. Throughout the study period, fingertip capillary blood glucose was measured daily using the enzyme electrode method (Super GL, China), and blood glucose levels were read from the scanning probe during fasting and 2 h after all three meals. Moreover, the time interval between reading the data from the scanning probe and collecting fingertip capillary blood was controlled to < 5 min. The accuracy of the FGM system was evaluated according to the CGM guidelines. Subsequently, the factors influencing the mean absolute relative difference (MARD) of this system were analyzed by a multiple linear regression method.

RESULTS

Pearson’s correlation analysis showed that the fingertip and scanned glucose levels were positively correlated (R = 0.86, P = 0.00). The aggregated MARD of scanned glucose was 14.28 ± 13.40%. Parker's error analysis showed that 99.30% of the data pairs were located in areas A and B. According to the probe wear time of the FreeStyle Libre FGM system, MARD1 d and MARD2–14 d were 16.55% and 14.35%, respectively (t = 1.23, P = 0.22). Multiple stepwise regression analysis showed that MARD did not correlate with blood glucose when the largest amplitude of glycemic excursion (LAGE) was < 5.80 mmol/L but negatively correlated with blood glucose when the LAGE was ≥ 5.80 mmol/L.

CONCLUSION

The FreeStyle Libre FGM system has good accuracy in patients with T2D who had recently migrated from highlands to plains. This system might be ideal for avoiding the effects of high hematocrit on blood glucose monitoring in populations that recently migrated to plains. MARD is mainly influenced by glucose levels and fluctuations, and the accuracy of the system is higher when the blood glucose fluctuation is small. In case of higher blood glucose level fluctuations, deviation in the scanned glucose levels is the highest at extremely low blood glucose levels.