bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STABILITY ANALYSIS AND NUMERICAL SIMULATIONS OF IVGTT GLUCOSE-INSULIN INTERACTION MODELS WITH TWO TIME DELAYS
Authors: Saber Sayed , Alalyani Ahmad
Published: August 2022

This paper presents a systematic study of a mathematical model of glucose and insulin interaction with two time delays, with a focus on analytical studies, bifurcation analysis, and very well numerical simulations. This model based on the Intra-Venous Glucose Tolerance Test (IVGTT) and is presented with two time delays. One delay is the insulin response time to an increase in glucose concentration, and the hepatic glucose production time delay is the other. Then, we establish results on positivity, boundedness, and persistence. We also provide suﬃcient stability analysis conditions for both local and global asymptotic stability of the proposed models. For the latter, two diﬀerent strategies are used: stability bifurcation analysis and Lyapunov-Krasovskii functionals. We investigate diﬀerent regions of parameter space using two approaches, that yield diﬀerent sets of suﬃcient conditions for global stability. The bifurcation graphs generated from our extensive and carefully designed simulations complement and conﬁrm these analytical results. The insulin concentration level peaks after the glucose concentration level, according to the numerical simulations.
UNIQUENESS OF DEGENERATING SOLUTIONS TO A DIFFUSION-PRECIPITATION MODEL FOR CLOGGING POROUS MEDIA
Authors: Schulz Raphael
Published: August 2022

The current article presents a degenerating diffusion-precipitation model including vanishing porosity and focuses primarily on uniqueness results. This is accomplished by assuming sufficient conditions under which the uniqueness of weak solutions can be established. Moreover, a proof of existence based on a compactness argument yields rather regular solutions, satisfying these unique conditions. The results show that every strong solution is unique, though a slightly different condition is additionally required in three dimensions. The analysis presents particular challenges due to the nonlinear structure of the underlying problem and the necessity to work with appropriate weights and manage possible degeneration.
The TESS–Keck Survey. XIII. An Eccentric Hot Neptune with a Similar-mass Outer Companion around TOI-1272
Authors: MacDougall Mason G. , Petigura Erik A. , Fetherolf Tara , Beard Corey , Lubin Jack , Angelo Isabel , Batalha Natalie M. , Behmard Aida , Blunt Sarah , Brinkman Casey , Chontos Ashley , Crossfield Ian J. M. , Dai Fei , Dalba Paul A. , Dressing Courtney , Fulton Benjamin , Giacalone Steven , Hill Michelle L. , Howard Andrew W. , Huber Daniel , Isaacson Howard , Kane Stephen R. , Kosiarek Molly , Mayo Andrew , Močnik Teo , Akana Murphy Joseph M. , Pidhorodetska Daria , Polanski Alex , Rice Malena , Robertson Paul , Rosenthal Lee J. , Roy Arpita , Rubenzahl Ryan A. , Scarsdale Nicholas , Turtelboom Emma V. , Tyler Dakotah , Van Zandt Judah , Weiss Lauren M. , Esparza-Borges Emma , Fukui Akihiko , Isogai Keisuke , Kawauchi Kiyoe , Mori Mayuko , Murgas Felipe , Narita Norio , Nishiumi Taku , Palle Enric , Parviainen Hannu , Watanabe Noriharu , Jenkins Jon M. , Latham David W. , Ricker George R. , Seager S. , Vanderspek Roland K. , Winn Joshua N. , Bieryla Allyson , Caldwell Douglas A. , Dragomir Diana , Fausnaugh M. M. , Mireles Ismael , Rodriguez David R.
Published: August 2022

We report the discovery of an eccentric hot Neptune and a non-transiting outer planet around TOI-1272. We identified the eccentricity of the inner planet, with an orbital period of 3.3 days and R
p,b = 4.1 ± 0.2 R
⊕, based on a mismatch between the observed transit duration and the expected duration for a circular orbit. Using ground-based radial velocity (RV) measurements from the HIRES instrument at the Keck Observatory, we measured the mass of TOI-1272b to be M
p,b = 25 ± 2 M
⊕. We also confirmed a high eccentricity of e

b
= 0.34 ± 0.06, placing TOI-1272b among the most eccentric well-characterized sub-Jovians. We used these RV measurements to also identify a non-transiting outer companion on an 8.7 day orbit with a similar mass of M
p,c sin i = 27 ± 3 M
⊕ and e

c
≲ 0.35. Dynamically stable planet–planet interactions have likely allowed TOI-1272b to avoid tidal eccentricity decay despite the short circularization timescale expected for a close-in eccentric Neptune. TOI-1272b also maintains an envelope mass fraction of f
env ≈ 11% despite its high equilibrium temperature, implying that it may currently be undergoing photoevaporation. This planet joins a small population of short-period Neptune-like planets within the “Hot Neptune Desert” with a poorly understood formation pathway.
Sudden Dimming of the Symbiotic Mira HM Sge
Authors: Goldman Steven R. , Sankrit Ravi , Wolthuis Nathan , Garner Sean , Gualdoni Carlo , Bolzoni Simone
Published: August 2022

The Symbiotic Mira HM Sge has dimmed considerably over the last year, beyond what is expected of its pulsation-related variability. HM Sge is composed of a cool oxygen-rich AGB star accreting onto a hotter white dwarf companion. The system brightened 6 mag in the optical in 1975 as a result of a Nova-like outburst. It has since dimmed and plateaued in the visible, while gradually growing in brightness in the near-IR over the past 15 yr (0.092 mag yr−1). Within the last year, however, the brightness has dropped by 1.52 mag in the I-band. While the system is expected to be near its pulsation minimum, the brightness is below the values expected of the last three pulsation cycles, and appears independent of the system’s fundamental mode pulsations. We suspect this may be the result of a change in the orientation of the system or episodic mass loss.
Un impensé historique. Les processus de renseignement français et prussien pendant la guerre de 1870
Authors: Arboit Gérald
Published: August 2022

Le renseignement dans la guerre de 1870 n’a pas jusqu’à présent vraiment mobilisé les historiens. Dans cette seconde moitié du xix e  siècle, le renseignement en était encore à un stade préliminaire dans les deux pays, le premier capteur étant le système diplomatique. Entre 1830 et 1867, chacun développa l’emploi d’attaché militaire, dont une des missions fut le renseignement. Il recruta des agents, dont seuls ceux de l’Allemand à Paris passèrent à la postérité. En préparation de la guerre à venir, la Prusse se montra également plus déterminée à organiser des opérations clandestines (Italie et Afrique du nord), tandis que la connaissance de l’ordre de bataille français fut privilégiée. De son côté, la France privilégia la reconnaissance en profondeur de l’espace allemand, mais eut la surprise stratégique de devoir combattre sur son territoire.
The Financial Burden of Health Expenses in Retirement
Authors: Legendre Bérangère , Le Duigou Sarah
Published: August 2022

Lors du passage à la retraite, l’augmentation de la consommation de services de santé et la perte de la couverture d’assurance financée par l’employeur peuvent entraîner une hausse des dépenses de santé à la charge des individus. Dans cet article, nous évaluons l’effet du départ à la retraite sur les dépenses de santé en France et considérons différents effets en fonction du niveau de revenu afin de mieux comprendre les implications sur le niveau de vie des retraités et les inégalités au sein de cette population, nous utilisons la 7ème vague de l’Enquête sur la Santé, le Vieillissement et la Retraite en Europe et proposons un modèle à variable instrumentale (IV) prenant en compte la discontinuité dans la possibilité de prendre sa retraite. Nous concluons que le départ à la retraite augmente les dépenses de santé de 148 % à utilisation égale des soins de santé et que cette augmentation est plus importante chez les personnes à hauts revenus. Pour les 50 % les plus aisés, cette augmentation des restes-à-charge en santé s’accompagne d’une augmentation de la consommation de services de santé, en particulier de soins ambulatoires.
The Economic Value of NBS for Flood Risk Mitigation and their Benefits in a River Basin Context: a Meta-Regression-Analysis
Authors: Arfaoui Nabila , Gnonlonfin Amandine
Published: August 2022

De nos jours, les Solutions Fondées sur la Nature (SFN) représentent un levier important des politiques publiques de réduction d’inondation. Afin de faciliter l’analyse coûts-bénéfices des investissements dans les SFN, cet article propose la première fonction de transfert fondée sur une méta-analyse. Cette fonction permet d’identifier et d’évaluer la valeur des SFN pour la réduction des risques d’inondation dans un contexte de bassin-versant. Nous avons analysé 199 observations provenant de 62 études menées en Amérique, en Europe et en Asie-Océanique depuis le milieu des années 1990. Nos estimations montrent que les SFN liées à la restauration écologique du lit de la rivière et des zones humides sont les plus valorisées. Quant aux bénéfices, nos résultats montrent que le principal avantage de la régulation de l’eau n’est pas significatif alors que les co-bénéfices tels que les services de récréation, d’appréciation esthétique et de provision de nourriture et de matériels sont positifs et significatifs. Les tests de validité de la fonction de transfert – au sein de l’échantillon et dans le contexte du bassin versant de la Brague – montrent une Moyenne Absolue des Pourcentages d’Erreurs (MAPE) comprise entre 5 % et 66 % avec une médiane de 17 %. Cela suggère que la fonction de transfert peut raisonnablement être utilisée pour estimer les bénéfices des SFN pour réduire des risques d’inondation.
Un départ comme tant d’autres
Authors: Candebat François
Published: August 2022

La souffrance au travail n’est en rien une fatalité. C’est un choix. Elle est le fait de capitaines d’industrie convaincus. Leurs techniques managériales véhiculent une description mensongère du travail. Celui-ci n’est plus qu’indicateurs, évaluations, résultats. L’intelligence mobilisée pour faire face aux résistances et imprévus rencontrés dans la réalisation du travail est occultée. Seule l’atteinte des objectifs est reconnue, mais elle est mystérieusement inatteignable. Construit ainsi, le travail ne peut plus être ce puissant moteur psychique de l’accomplissement de soi. Reste alors, seule, la souffrance… Que faut-il faire ? Défendre ce que l’on imagine être « du bon travail », au risque de s’isoler, ou alors collaborer ? «  Ils ne nous laissent pas vraiment le choix  », entendons-nous souvent. Ou «  Ce n’est pas nous les responsables  », lorsqu’un collègue flanche. La force de l’idéologie libérale est d’avoir banalisé l’injustice sociale. Nous participons alors à un système qui produit notre propre perte. Il perdure parce que nous y collaborons. Il s’agit d’une véritable aliénation culturelle. C’est ce que nous disent les travaux en psychodynamique du travail. Le puissant texte de La Boétie ou ceux d’Hannah Arendt viennent éclairer, avec acuité, cette nouvelle servitude volontaire. Face à cette aliénation, il est, pour nous, urgent d’y opposer nos imaginaires. Ce texte y invite, à sa manière.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Suicidal and Self-Harming Behavior of Young People
Authors: Briggs Stephen
Published: August 2022

The unprecedented use of lockdown and quarantine to combat the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) severely disrupted young people's social worlds. Both short- and long-term negative consequences were widely predicted for adolescent mental health, which was, however, reported to be deteriorating before the COVID-19 pandemic. By taking a microperspective, exploring in depth the experiences of therapeutic work with young people with suicidal thoughts or behavior, including two composite case examples, this article provides a nuanced understanding of the pandemic's effects. The discussion links the accounts of these cases, firstly, with evidence to date about the patterns that are emerging regarding the effects of the pandemic and, secondly, with theories of the relationship between suicidal thoughts and behavior and the impasse/breakdown in the adolescent developmental processes. In conclusion, it is suggested that the capacity to negotiate loss and change are crucial for sustaining development despite the COVID-19 pandemic and often in the face of overwhelming anxieties.

[
Psychiatr Ann
. 2022;52(8):318–322.]
Reoperation After Osteochondral Autograft and Allograft Transfer in the Pediatric Knee
Authors: Hall Tyler B. , Hyman Max J. , Patel Neeraj M.
Published: August 2022

Osteochondral autograft (OAU) transfer and osteochondral allograft (OAL) transfer are options for treating sizable articular cartilage lesions in the knee, but there is little evidence to support one technique over another. The goal of this study is to compare the rate of reoperation among children and adolescents undergoing OAU or OAL of the knee. In this retrospective cohort study, the Pediatric Health Information System, a national database consisting of 49 children's hospitals, was queried for all patients undergoing OAU and OAL between 2012 and 2018. A total of 732 subjects with a mean age of 15.4±2.4 years were included. Of these, 393 (53.7%) initially underwent OAL and 339 (46.3%) underwent OAU. The overall reoperation rate was 144 of 732 (19.7%) at a median of 6.6 months (range, 0.6–53.5 months) after the index operation. This rate was similar for OAL and OAU. For 18 subjects (2.5%), OAU, OAL, or autologous chondrocyte implantation (ACI) was performed at the time of revision surgery. When analyzing only open procedures, we found that the reoperation rate was 25.5% for open OAU compared with 16.5% for open OAL (
P
=.03). When adjusting for covariates in multivariate regression, we found that those who underwent open OAU had 1.7 times higher odds of requiring a future reoperation than those who underwent open OAL (95% CI, 1.1–2.8;
P
=.04). Although the rate of reoperation after OAU or OAL among children and adolescents is relatively high, few require revision OAU, OAL, or ACI. Patients undergoing open OAU have higher odds of ultimately requiring reoperation than those undergoing open OAL. [
Orthopedics
. 2022;45(6):378–383.]
Predictors of Femtosecond Laser–Assisted Arcuate Keratotomy Efficacy for Astigmatism Correction in Cataract Surgery
Authors: Zhang Fan , Li Shaowei , Huo Dongmei , Li Qiumei
Published: August 2022

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the predictors related to the efficacy of epithelium- and Bowman membrane-penetrating femtosecond laser–assisted arcuate keratotomy (FSAK) in the treatment of preoperative astigmatism in patients with cataracts and to clarify the predictive role of the incision-to-limbus distance.

METHODS:

This retrospective study included patients who underwent femtosecond laser–assisted cataract surgery combined with FSAK using the LenSX platform (Alcon Laboratories, Inc) at Beijing Aier-Intech Eye Hospital from March 2017 to December 2021. The Lenstar LS900 (Haag-Streit, Inc) was used to measure the horizontal corneal diameter, and ImageJ software (National Institutes of Health) was used to measure the vertical corneal diameter and incision-to-limbus distance. Finally, the measured values were converted. Changes in corneal astigmatism before and 3 months after surgery were analyzed using Alpins vector analysis. Correlation analysis and regression analysis were used to evaluate the factors associated with surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) in preoperative ocular biometric parameters.

RESULTS:

The study included 94 eyes of 94 patients. The mean target induced astigmatism was 1.36 ± 0.44 diopters (D), SIA was 0.82 ± 0.43 D, and mean difference vector was 0.70 ± 0.40 D. Pearson correlation analysis and univariate regression analysis showed that preoperative corneal astigmatism, arcuate keratotomy arc length, incision-to-limbus distance, and astigmatism type were significant predictors of SIA. Multiple variable regression analysis included parameters such as age, arcuate keratotomy arc length, and incision-to-limbus distance and established a multiple regression model of SIA (all
P
< .01).

CONCLUSIONS:

The incision-to-limbus distance was a significant independent predictor of SIA, and inclusion of this parameter may further improve the accuracy of the nomogram.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2022;38(8):480–486.]
Look at What I Have Created!
Authors: King Miller Beverly A.
Published: August 2022

This chapter addresses the underrepresentation of students of African descent and Latinx heritage by offering a model that supports inclusion into science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) pipeline via research competitions. The 5P Model is a social justice framework designed to redress the exclusion of underrepresented students by providing a support structure for success in research competitions. The model includes conducting research, performing a research experiment, creating a poster board presentation, writing the research paper, and the oral presentation. These elements develop research skills and strategies which are foundational for overall academic success and preparation for most career pathways. Drawing from a qualitative study of 120 middle school 6th and 7th grade students from a middle/high charter school in New Mexico, the data reveals evidence that, as self-efficacy increased, persistence and positive attitudes toward participation increased.
Reimagining HBCUs in the Future of P-20 Black Education
Authors: Hill Johnathan T.
Published: August 2022

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are linked to P-12 Black education through a shared history and purpose in the United States. As HBCUs are in question, it will be important to not only provide the historical perspectives of HBCUs in higher education, but to think broadly about the role of HBCUs in the entire P-20 Black education spectrum. This chapter explores HBCUs role in P-20 Black education by exploring the experiences and perspectives of Black HBCU alumni in educational spaces and shedding light on how their HBCU experiences shaped their racialized identity and consciousness (i.e., Black identity and racial consciousness). Drawing on a 90-minute focus group interview with seven HBCU graduates, the author contends three themes of experiences at HBCUs that contributed to the development of Black alumni's racial consciousness and identity and that may translate in P-12 Black education: (1) a perspective of self in educational spaces, (2) HBCUs as safe spaces, and (3) HBCUs helping to create Black and racially conscious individuals.
Producing Ceria (CeO2) Nanoparticles Using Ethanol/Water Mixture as Solvent: Effect of Temperature on the Morphology and Crystallite Size
Authors: Rusdi Suharno , Chafidz Mas Sahid Achmad , Nurkhamidah Siti , Fardhyanti Dewi Selvia , Handayani Prima Astuti , Prasetiawan Haniif
Published: August 2022

Cerium oxide has been widely used in many application. One of the most important applications is for chemical mechanical application/planarization (CMP). In the current work, ceria nanoparticles have been prepared via precipitation method using ethanol/water mixture as the solvent, while cerium nitrate hexahydrate as cerium source and ammonium solution as precipitant. The effects of two different temperatures (i.e. 30 and 50°C) and two different apparatus setup (i.e. Setup A and Setup B) on the morphology and crystallite size of the ceria nanoparticles were studied. The morphology and crystallite size of the ceria were analyzed using X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD) and Tranmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The XRD analysis results showed that the peak intensity of the ceria nanoparticles prepared by using setup B was much higher than the ones prepared by using Setup A. The XRD results revealed that the crystallinity growth and mean crystallite size of the ceria was better or higher when using Setup B. The crystallite size of the calcined ceria nanoparticles were found to be 9.8; 10.5; 14.5 nm for Ceria-1, Ceria-2, and Ceria-3 samples, respectively. In addition, the TEM images showed that Ceria-3 sample exhibited better morphology and less agglomerated compared to that of Ceria-1 and Ceria-2 samples. Futhermore, Ceria-3 sample also had better dispersion stability compared to that of Ceria-1 and Ceria-2 samples due to its better morphology.
COVID-19 patients at referral to hospital during the first peak of disease: Common clinical findings including myalgia and fatigue
Authors: Honarmand Amin , Sheybani Fateme , Aflatoonian Elahe , Saberinia Amin
Published: August 2022

The wide range of manifestations and clinical symptoms of COVID-19 has made it a unique disease. Investigating the epidemiology of different clinical manifestations of this disease in patients referred to medical centers is one of the most effective steps in adopting a suitable diagnostic and treatment approach. These findings also provide a basis for comparing the evolution of the virus and its clinical manifestations over time and at different peaks of the disease. Therefore, the present study was aimed at investigating common clinical findings at the time of referral in patients with COVID-19 in Afzalipour Hospital, Kerman, during the first peak of the disease. This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was performed on hospitalized patients diagnosed with COVID-19, between March 2020 and June 2020. The patients were included in the study by census method, and the research variables related to demographic indicators, disease course and clinical symptoms were extracted from the patients' medical records, and then subjected to statistical analysis. In this study, a total of 210 patients were examined, consisted mainly of male patients (59.5%). The mean age was found to be 53.95 ± 19.55 years. Also, 20.3% of patients needed admission in the intensive care unit. In addition, 1% of patients were infected in February 2020, 24% in March 2020, 47.4% in April 2020 and 27.4% in May 2020. The mean onset of symptoms until hospitalization was also found as 6.51 days. The most common clinical symptoms included shortness of breath (75.7%), dry cough (52.9%), fever (50.5%), myalgia (45.7%) and fatigue (41.9%). Fever at admission time was significantly more common in ages less than 50 years (p=0.034). Our study showed that the most common clinical symptoms were shortness of breath, dry cough, fever, myalgia and fatigue. No statistically significant difference was found in common symptoms between men and women. Among the common clinical symptoms, only fever at admission time was observed to be significantly higher in those under 50 years of age.
A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF WORKERS WITH OCCUPATIONAL EXPOSURE TO PETROLEUM DERIVATIVES
Authors: Fenga C. , Spatari G. , Loreto C. , Leonardi R. , Germanò D.
Published: August 2022

Human involucrin (hiNV) is an early cytoplasmatic protein of the cornified cell envelope (1, 2) that is considered as a marker of normal keratinocyte differentiation and maturation (3,4). In keratinocytes the formation of the cornified cell envelope is needed to enable skin to withstand physical, mechanical and chemical agents ( 5) .

In normal orthokeratinized body, hiNV expression begins in the upper spinous layer coincident with cell flattening (6); however deeper epidermal staining for hiNV has been described in hyperproliferative and diseased epidermis ( 5) . [...]
Infection with high-risk genotypes of human papillomavirus and cervical cytological findings among kidney transplant recipients in Kenya: a single centre experience
Authors: S Masinde Millicent , K Kayima Joshua , J Gichuhi Wanyoike , C Cheserem Eunice , I Maranga Orora , K Kabinga Samuel
Published: August 2022

Background: High-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) infection is linked with uterine cervix premalignant lesions and invasive carcinomaof the uterine cervix.

Methods: Descriptive cross sectional study carried out among female kidney transplant (KTx) recipients in Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi-Kenya. We studied the risk factors for acquisition of hrHPV, examined cervical cytology and assayed for 14 hrHPV DNA using Cervista® HPV HR test and Cervista® MTA (Hologic®) automated platforms.

Results: The 14-hrHPV genotypes assayed were 16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 66, and 68 and the prevalence rate was 31.25 % (10/32). Abnormal cervical cytology was noted in 4/32 (12.5%) and included low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (2/32), atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (1/32) and atypical glandular cells (1/32). The average age was 41.9 years with mean age at first coitus being 20.4 years. Majority of the women 20(62.5%) were married while 8(25%) were single. About 18(56.3%) had only one sexual partner. About 20% of women were nulliparous and 4(12.5%) had a parity of five. Duration since transplantation ranged between 1-21 years.

Conclusions: The burden of hrHPV and abnormal cervical cytology in our study seemed lower than that reported elsewhere andeven in general population. This study may form basis for further studies about HPV infections and carcinoma of the uterine cervixamong the kidney allograft recipients in our setting.

Keywords: Cervical carcinoma; kidney transplant recipients; high risk Human Papillomavirus.
The spatial relationship between tuberculosis and alcohol outlets in the township of Mamelodi, South Africa
Authors: Booi Lazola , D Breetzke Gregory
Published: August 2022

Background: The availability of alcohol in society is known to increase the risk of a range of negative health outcomes.

Objectives: The aim of this research is to determine if there is a spatial association between tuberculosis and alcohol outlets in Mamelodi, South Africa. We also aim to examine whether the socio-economic characteristics of the neighbourhood in which an alcohol outlet was located was related to the magnitude of tuberculosis in the immediate vicinity of the alcohol outlet.

Methods: Location quotient analysis is used to compare the extent of tuberculosis within a series of buffer intervals (100m, 200m, 300m) immediately surrounding alcohol outlets with tuberculosis across the township of Mamelodi as a whole.

Results: The density of tuberculosis around alcohol outlets in Mamelodi at all buffer distances was found to be substantially higher than across the township as a whole. These findings indicate that the risk of tuberculosis in Mamelodi is higher around alcohol outlets. Alcohol outlets located in more deprived areas of Mamelodi were significantly associated with higher density of tuberculosis relative to alcohol outlets located in more affluent neighbourhoods.

Conclusion: Despite alcohol outlets forming an integral part of the urban landscape in townships in South Africa, they may facilitate the transmission of tuberculosis.

Keywords: Tuberculosis and alcohol outlets; Mamelodi; South Africa.
The comparison of remimazolam and midazolam for the sedation of gastrointestinal endoscopy: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies
Authors: Zhang Lin , Li Chun , Zhao Chuncheng , You Yulai , Xu Jian
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Remimazolam and midazolam are used for the sedation of gastrointestinal endoscopy, but their efficacy remains controversial. We conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the sedation of remimazolam with midazolam for gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Methods: PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the influence of remimazolam versus midazolam on gastrointestinal endoscopy were included. Two investigators independently have searched articles, extracted data, and assessed the quality of included studies. This meta-analysis was performed using the random-effect model.

Results: Three RCTs involving 528 patients were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with midazolam for gastrointestinal endoscopy, remimazolam was associated with higher procedure success (OR=9.78; 95% CI=1.48 to 64.71; P=0.02), lower need for rescue medication (OR=0.09; 95% CI=0.01 to 0.80; P=0.03), shorter total recall (Std. MD=0.93; 95% CI=0.15 to 1.72; P=0.02) and delayed recall (Std. MD=0.44; 95% CI=0.05 to 0.83; P=0.03), reduced incidence of hypotenson (OR=0.39; 95% CI=0.25 to 0.62; P<0.0001) and adverse events (OR=0.36; 95% CI=0.17 to 0.79; P=0.01), but had no obvious influence on fully alert (Std. MD=-0.75; 95% CI=-1.58 to 0.08; P=0.08).

Conclusions: Remimazolam demonstrated better efficacy and safety for the sedation of gastrointestinal endoscopy compared to midazolam.

Keywords: Remimazolam; midazolam; gastrointestinal endoscopy; meta-analysis.
Traditional bone setting and trauma care in South-Eastern Chad
Authors: J Hancock Canaan , Breme Hissein , P Mazur Jan , Chintalapati Keerthana , Hashikawa Andrew , Kroner Eric
Published: August 2022

Background: Traditional bonesetters are the main providers of fracture treatment and trauma care in much of Africa. However, there is a paucity of literature on bonesetters in Chad.

Objectives: Our study sought to investigate Chadian bonesetter practices, their relationship to the community, and the complex local perspectives on trauma care in Am Timan, Chad.

Methods: Thirty-three semi-structured interviews were conducted with community members, traditional bonesetters, and physicians in Am Timan using a constructivist grounded theory approach. Responses were coded, categorized, and compared within and across study populations to identify themes.

Results: Most community members (n=25) interviewed preferred bonesetters for trauma care due to their affordability, continuity and convenience of care, and the community’s fear of Western medical practices. Although the Chadian bonesetters’ fracture management mirrored bonesetters in neighboring African countries, the Chadian bonesetters have a much wider scope of practice, including treatment for both medical and spiritual ailments. Both Jabari (n=6) and physicians (n=2) emphasized the need for more training and collaboration.

Conclusion: As in much of Africa, bonesetters perform a major role in providing trauma care in Chad. Our research identifies an opportunity to maximize trauma care in Chad through dialogue, training, and collaboration between bonesetters and physicians.

Keywords: Wounds And Injuries; African Traditional; Orthopedics.
Implementation of Kifilideen Trinomial Theorem based on Matrix Approach in Computation of the Power of Base of Tri-Digits Number
Authors: Osanyinpeju Kifilideen
Published: August 2022

The use of binomial theorem to expand trinomial expression of particular power n  requires a bit by bit breaking down of the expansion until the final answer is obtained. This method had been seen not to be direct enough and involves repeated application up to the final result is achieved which makes the method to be unattractive. There is need to develop a direct and straight way in expanding trinomial expression of any power. This study implemented Kifilideen trinomial theorem based on matrix approach in computation of the power of base of tri – digits number. This method adopts Kif matrix approach in generating the power combination required in the evaluation. The use of Kifilideen trinomial theorem in expanding trinomial expression of positive power of n  helps to eliminate humdrum nature of using binomial theorem in expanding such trinomial expression of positive power of n The Kifilideen matrix approach in solving the tri – digits number of power n  does not involve the repeated multiplication of figures unlike the use of long multiplication approach in solving such problem.
Extraction and Characterization of Cassava, Potato and Mango Starches
Authors: Usman Nasiru , Agwamba Ernest , Hassan Lawal , Almustapha Nura , Achor Mohammed
Published: August 2022

Starches from cassava tubers, sweet potato, and mango seeds were isolated and characterized. The starches' proximate, elemental composition, physicochemical and physical properties, were studied. Cassava tuber yielded 93.45 percent, while Potato and Mango seed yielded 88.65 and 78.45 percent, respectively, in the proximate composition.  When compared to cassava at 5.49 and potato starch 5.72, which have a highly acidic pH, mango starch had a neutral pH of 6.9. The moisture content of starch extracted from cassava and mango was significantly closed values at 6.00 and 6.5 percent, respectively, when compared to potato, which had a moisture content of 4.5 percent. Cassava starch (0.0012±0.003, 0.08 ±0.01) had significantly lower protein and nitrogen levels than Potato (0.35±0.00001) and (0.06±0.03), and was significantly lower than Mango starch (0.35±0.01) and (0.06±0.01) (p <0.005). Cassava starch had the highest swelling capacity of 0.940 cm3 compared to 0.285 and 0.250 cm3 for mango and potato, respectively. Cassava and potato starches have significantly higher swelling capacities of 92.00 and 93.00 percent, respectively, than mango starch, which has a swelling capacity of 75.2 percent. Cassava starch had a greater moisture absorption index of 36.00, compared to Potato 24.10 and Mango starch 23.65 percent, which showed no significant difference. Mango starch had significantly higher sodium, potassium, and calcium concentrations than cassava and potato starch, but magnesium and phosphorus concentrations were significantly higher in mango starch than cassava and potato starch. All of the starches have outstanding characteristics and can be used interchangeably, especially in food and pharmaceuticals.
Factors influencing Adoption of Irrigation Technologies among Smallholder Farmers in Machakos County, Kenya
Authors: Muluki Kithome Mary , Rasugu Mogaka Hezron , Njeri Mugwe Jayne , Nyarindo Isaboke Hezron
Published: August 2022

The study examined the factors that drive decisions to adopt and use irrigation technologies among smallholder farmers in Machakos County, Kenya. Data were collected from a sample of 300 smallholder farmers. Cross-sectional survey design, a multistage sampling procedure and random sampling method were employed. Percentages, means and econometric analysis were used in data analysis. Results showed that, 31.7% of the respondents practiced irrigation. Sex of household head, education, farm size, off-farm income, credit accessed and access to extension services positively influenced adoption of irrigation technologies. Adoption intensity was positively influenced by gender, off-farm income, farming experience, primary occupation and extension services. As a result, it is suggested that while formulating development strategies and programs for smallholder farmers, agricultural extension organizations should give priority to these factors.
In Vitro Screening of Zea mays L. for drought tolerance
Authors: Okafor U.C. , Onyekwuluje C. , Kenechukwu E.J. , Okafor N.M. , Egonu S.N. , Obayi H.C. , Adeosun C.A.
Published: August 2022

The drought tolerance of two local varieties of Zea mays L. (var. indentata and var. everta) were studied using different concentrations (0 g/l, 3 g/l and 5 g/l) of polyethylene glycol (PEG) in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium. The maize seeds were surface sterilized with 10% (v/v) sodium hypochlorite for 15 minutes and subsequently in 70% (v/v) ethanol for 1 minute and thereafter rinsed thrice with sterile water. The sterile seeds were inoculated in the growth media and observed for growth. The experiment was done in a completely randomized design (CRD) with ten replicates for a period of 15 days and growth parameters were evaluated. The result showed that for var. indentata, the shoot length (19.15 ± 1.34cm), leaf length (16.62 ± 1.27cm), leaf width (1.19 ± 0.07cm) and leaf number (3.00 ± 0.15cm) of the plants grown in the control medium were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those grown in media containing 3g/l and 5g/l PEG, but the root number (8.80 ± 1.03cm) was lower in the control compared to the media containing PEG. The same pattern of increase in control compared to media containing PEG were also observed for var. everta. With the growth parameters of the control being the highest for both varieties, it therefore shows that both var. indentata and var. everta are susceptible to drought.
Bio-Terrorism Incidents: Nigeria Awareness and Preparedness
Authors: James I.I. , Ibout A.A. , Akpan P.S. , Bassey E.E. , Edem A.B. , Okon R.
Published: August 2022

Biological agents are microorganisms or their products that can be potentially applied in biological warfare. The use of biological agents as weapons in conflicts has been prevalent throughout history. With the increase in terrorism incidents globally and within the Nigerian environment, as well as the graduation of terrorist groups from their previous objectives of fighting governments to inflicting mass damage and national carnage, bioterrorism actions are becoming a possibility that Nigeria needs to be aware and prepare for. The anthrax-laden letter attacks in the USA in 2001 led to realization of the possibilities of, and dangers posed in bioterrorism actions, and increased investment in preparedness for a potential bioterrorism attack by the US and other developed nations. Defending the nation against possible events involving such agents obviously requires being prepared. The Nigerian security and emergency management sector seem to be totally unprepared for most emergency situations, and therefore may not cope in the face of a biological attack, leading to the increase in spread and effects of such incidents. This article aims to look at the challenges posed to emergency preparedness for potential biological incidents in Nigeria and outline steps that can be taken to prepare for them.
Effect of bioactive whey protein-supplemented paclitaxel on nutritional status and tumor growth in a mouse model of subcutaneously transplanted triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Chen Xi , Zhang Min
Published: August 2022

Purpose: To study the effect of bioactive whey protein-supplemented paclitaxel on nutritional status and tumor growth in a mouse model of subcutaneously transplanted triple negative breast cancer (TNBC).Methods: Eighty (80) mice were equally assigned to chemotherapy and control groups. The chemotherapy-treated mice received bioactive whey protein-supplemented paclitaxel chemotherapy, while the control group received paclitaxel chemotherapy only. Differences in body weight, glutathione (GSH) contents in tumor tissue and blood, tumor volume and extent of tumor suppression, serum levels of CA153 and TSGF, and survival time were determined and compared between the two groups.Results: After 4 weeks, tumor tissue GSH was markedly lower in chemotherapy-exposed mice than in control mice, while blood GSH content in the chemotherapy group was significantly higher than that of control group (p < 0.05). After drug administration, volume of transplanted tumor and tumor weight were significantly lower in chemotherapy mice than in control mice, while levels of CA153 and TSGF in serum were down-regulated in chemotherapy-exposed mice, relative to control mice. Moreover, the mean survival time of mice in chemotherapy group was significantly longer than that in control group (p < 0.05).Conclusion: Bioactive whey protein-supplemented paclitaxel improves the nutritional status of mice, slows down weight loss, lowers the levels of tumor growth factors, suppresses tumor growth, prolongs survival period, and improves prognosis of subcutaneously transplanted triple negative breast cancer in mice. This therapeutic strategy can potentially be used. for the management of breast cancer but this requires prior successful clinical trials
Experiencia pedagógica virtual de educación ambiental: Reto del ecoladrillo
Authors: Ramírez Rubio Leticia
Published: August 2022

El presente trabajo documenta la experiencia del reto del ecoladrillo como estrategia pedagógica con alumnos universitarios en modalidad virtual. El objetivo es reconocer la aportación individual en la generación de residuos y el consumo responsable por parte de los alumnos. El reto consistió en recuperar residuos inorgánicos durante 21 días para colocarlos dentro de una botella de tereftalato de polietileno, esta actividad debía ser documentada diariamente utilizando la herramienta diario de Blackboard®. Se realizó un análisis cualitativo del contenido del diario de cada alumno, utilizando el software QDA Miner® la información se categorizó en antes, durante y después del reto. Al finalizar el reto, los alumnos se vieron a sí mismos como agentes de cambio debido a que con pequeñas acciones individuales pueden hacer una diferencia para el planeta. El 41% de los participantes se comprometieron a mejorar sus hábitos de consumo para disminuir la cantidad de residuos y el 19% manifestó que continuarían realizando el ecoladrillo. Si bien un ecoladrillo no es la solución a la problemática ambiental, sí es una herramienta que motiva a la acción pues el alumno hace cambios en su estilo de vida con la esperanza de que lo aplique en su vida profesional futura.
Infraestructura hospitalaria y personal médico del Sistema Público de Salud en México ante la pandemia por COVID-19
Authors: Olivera-Martínez Grissel , García-Andrés Adelaido
Published: August 2022

Este artículo presenta un análisis sobre la infraestructura hospitalaria y recursos humanos del sistema de salud público en México en el contexto de crisis sanitaria de COVID-19. Con base en los parámetros que considera la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS), se explora la disponibilidad de las camas hospitalarias, así como del personal médico y de enfermería. Asimismo, se efectúa un análisis comparativo de los recursos de la Secretaría de Salud (SSA) para observar los cambios en la reconversión hospitalaria en respuesta a la crisis sanitaria. Los resultados indican que en el país persisten asimetrías en la infraestructura de servicios médicos por debajo de los parámetros sugeridos por la OMS y con amplias brechas entre estados. Situación que en el contexto de pandemia por COVID-19 exacerba las desigualdades preexistentes y representa retos adicionales de cobertura para el sistema de salud público del país.
FIRST RECORD OF RED LIONFISH Pterois volitans (LINNAEUS, 1758) (SCORPAENIFORMES: SCORPAENIDAE) IN THE GREAT AMAZON REEF SYSTEM, STATE OF PARÁ, BRAZIL
Authors: Cintra Israel , Klautau Alex , Martins Déborah , Marceniuk Alenxandre , Santos Wagner , Barbosa José Milton
Published: August 2022

New records of 13 red lionfish Pterois volitans (Linnaeus, 1758) collected in 2021 in commercial fisheries for lobster Panulirus argus (Latreille, 1804) and snapper Lutjanus purpureus (Poey, 1866) in the Great Amazon Reef System. We provide information about the first occurrence in the Amazon continental shelf in Pará State, depth, target fishery, fishing gear and size of the specimens. These records expand the geographic distribution of P. volitans and the knowledge about its invasion in Brazil.
Piloting A Qualitative Interview for Malaysia Primary School Active Learning Needs Analysis Regarding Learner Control Experiences
Authors: Hui Leow , Halili Siti Hajar , Razak Rafiza binti Abudal
Published: August 2022

This paper describes a holistic process of a pilot test to determine the trustworthiness of semi-structured interview questions to be used in the qualitative investigation of Malaysia primary school active learning needs analysis, by focusing on the learner control peculiarity in the context. The researchers carried out the pilot test based on a sequential cycle of determining, assessment, adjustment, revisiting, and reflection. The researchers generated semi-structured interview questions mainly based on Hutchinson and Waters’s (1987) framework for analysis of learning needs. The researchers tested the semi-structured interview questions on two teacher and two pupil participants mirroring the intended subjects in the field. The pilot test allows the researchers to practice beforehand the semi-structured interview techniques and provides valuable insights for the researchers to modify and improve the interview questions. Finally, this paper reports the modification or refinement made to the interview questions, which proves that the questions are readied to be used in future study. This paper also provides methodological insights for other researchers, who may also undertake qualitative interview methods in active learning studies.
APPLICATION OF FIBONACCI SERIES, GOLDEN PROPORTIONS AND GOLDEN RECTANGLE TO HUMAN HAND USING STATISTICAL ANALYSIS
Authors: LETCHUMANAN SUWATYRA , IDRIS RUWAIDIAH
Published: August 2022

The Greek letter φ (Phi) represents one of the most mysterious numbers (1.618…) known to humankind. Historical approbation for φhas led to the monikers “The Golden Number” or “The Divine Proportion”. This simple, but inscrutable number, is inseparably linked to the recursive mathematical sequence which produces Fibonacci numbers. The study of the Fibonacci sequence exists in most aspects of life starting from the leaves of a non-flowering plant, design, paintings, animals, and even human body. Despite its wide-spread prevalence and existence, the Fibonacci series and also the Rule of Golden Proportions have not been widely documented within the human body. The main objective of this study is to prove that the length of the human hand bone is in step with the Fibonacci series to spot the degree of movement and variation for every finger. Victimization of the sample z test with 95% confidence interval, this analysis shows that just one of the four bone length ratios contained the ratio phi φ within the 95% confi dence interval and follow the Fibonacci series, that of the little fi nger metacarpal and proximal phalanx in both hands. The largest variability was seen within the little fi nger phalangeal relationships and other fingers will follow mathematical relative series. Due to the relationship with the golden number, it will facilitate in monitoring the individual with an injured hand, especially if injured in small fingers throughout a medical aid, or to identify the cause of the problem of physical functioning of the hands or individual fingers. Hence, it should be helpful for the length of the clenched fist to perform in reconstruction or placement of the prosthesis.
POSITION ACCURACY STUDY OF USING PORTABLE USB GPS ANTENNA IN OPEN AND CLOSED SPACES
Authors: SAMO AISYAH , NOOR MOHD
Published: August 2022

This research involved the positional accuracy study of portable Global Positioning System (GPS) in open and closed spaces. The project has several phases; the first phase consists of setting the portable GPS antenna on the laptop computer and running the u-center data recording application software for raw data recording. The second phase involves data filtration, extraction of position information both for open and closed spaces for analysis. The next stage generation of results including the determining means of latitude and longitude errors and comparing positional accuracy in open and closed spaces. The errors between positions in open and closed spaces were determined for comparison based on selected known locations. The results are plotted into real latitude and longitude scale to show the position acquired. The result in open and closed spaces were finally statistically compared. The pattern of positions accuracy for open and closed space indicates larger longitude error compared to latitude error varying between 1-15 meters in terms of range error from the mean. Test for known positions using ANOVA indicate significant difference between locations acquired in open and closed spaces.
Criteria for a Structure to be Mesoionic
Authors:   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Materials Science, Sizov Georgii N. , Babaev Eugene V. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Faculty of Chemistry
Published: August 2022

In the article, at the mathematical level of rigor, it is shown that the pair of concepts "covalence – mesoionicity" correlates in the same way as the pair "kekuleness – non-kekuleness". A criterion for a structure to be mesoionic (mesoionicity criterion) is formulated and proved, which makes it possible to enumerate all mono-charged mesoionic structures (mesomeric betaines) on a given graph. The mesoionicity criterion and the Kasteleyn theorem (on counting the number of perfect matchings in a graph) were used as the basis for a computer program that classifies dipolar resonance structures. The work of the program is demonstrated on the lists of obtained mesoionic structures. A general approach to mesoionicity is discussed.