bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hubungan Hubungan Gula Darah Dengan Nilai Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) Pasien Diabetes Mellitus Tipe 2
Authors: Widyanata Komang Agus Jerry , Daryaswanti Putu Intan , Artawan I Kadek
Published: August 2023

Diabetes Melitus tipe 2 (DMT2) merupakan penyakit kronis karena tubuh tidak mampu menggunakan insulin yang diproduksinya secara efektif. Kadar glukosa dalam darah yang tidak stabil pada penderita DM tipe 2 dapat menimbulkan berbagai komplikasi salah satunya adalah neuropati perifer. Penilaian ABI terhadap Pasien DM tipe 2 perlu dilakukan untuk mengetahui secara dini terjadinya neuropati perifer terutama pada telapak kaki. Rendahnya nilai ABI yang menimbulkan gangguan vaskular dipengaruhi oleh multi faktor seperti usia yang semakin bertambah, lamanya menderita DM, obesitas, menkonsumsi obat anti hiperglikemik yang belum tepat, tingkat aktivitas fisik yang rendah, perawatan kaki yang belum optimal dan diet DM belum dilakukan secara taat, serta kontrol glikemik yang buruk. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui lebih lanjut Hubungan Gula Garah Dengan Nilai Ankle Bracial Index (ABI) Pada Pasien Diabetes Mellitus Tipe 2 Di Wilayah Kerja Puskesmas Kuta Utara. Penelitian ini menggunakan penelitian korelatif dengan rancangan cross-sectional study dengan 80 responden yang merupakan penderita DM di Wilayah Kerja Puskesmas Kuta Utara. Instrument untuk mengukur nilai ABI adalah tensi meter digital, SPO, dan lembar leklist dan untuk mengukur gula darah menggunakan SPO dan glucotest yang sudah terkalibrasi. Analisis data dilakukan analisa data dengan menggunakan uji statistik parametrik Pearson. Pada uji korelasi (Product Moment) hipotesa alternatif diterima apabila nilai p<0,05. Hasil penelitian menunjukan nilai gula darah pasien DM di wilayah Kuta Utara Sebagian besar masuk ke dalam kategori tidak terkontrol (71,2%), nilai Angle Bracial Indek (ABI) pasien DM di wilayah Kuta Utara Sebagian besar masuk ke dalam kategori ditoleransi (42,4%), dan Nilai Gula darah dengan nilai Angkle Bracial Indek (ABI) memiliki hubungan yang signifikan dengan nilai hubungan negative. Artinya adalah semakin tinggi nilai gula darah pasien makan semakin rendah nilai ABI dan berpotensi mengalami Periperal Arteri Desease (PAD)
SINDROMA PARAMENSTRUALE DHE TRAJTIMI I SAJ
Authors:   Reald University College, Petanaj Aida , Kotori Petrit ,   Reald University College
Published: August 2023

I krijuar si term “sindroma paramenstruale” që prej vitit 1953 studiuesit vazhdimisht kryejnë hulumtime të ndryshme shkencore që nga evidentimi i simptomave e deri tek trajtimi me medikamente. Përveç trajtimit me medikamente një bazë të rëndësishme sot po zënë edhe mjekimet me bazë bimore. Bimët medicinale, të cilat përbëjnë shtyllën kurrizore të mjekësisë tradicionale, në dekadat e fundit kanë qenë objekt i studimeve shumë intensive farmakologjike; kjo është sjellë nga njohja e vlerës së bimëve medicinale si burime të mundshme të komponimeve të reja me vlerë terapeutike dhe si burime të komponimeve të plumbit në zhvillimin e ilaçeve. Qëllimi artikullit është që të sjelli një analizë të simpotomave të sindromës paramenstruale, dhe trajtimi i saj me medikamente dhe bimë mjekësore. Për realizmin e artikulli janë përdoru disa metoda studimore të cilat kanë shërbyer për realizimin e artikullit. Studimet dhe të dhënat kanë evidentuar rëndësinë dhe mangësitë e studimeve në këtë fushë si dhe rritjen e përdorimit të bimëve mjekësore për trajtimin e kësaj sindrome.
Peningkatan Keterampilan Wirausaha Siswa SMK NU Kedungtuban melalui Pelatihan Produksi, Pengemasan dan Penerapan Aplikasi Inventory
Authors: Mege Stacia Reviany , Windriya Anafil , Subari Arkhan
Published: August 2023

Mastery of entrepreneurship knowledge and skills is one of the objectives of holding a Business Center as a teaching factory from Kedungtuban NU Vocational High School. However, on the other hand, there are still a number of obstacles such as the lack of production and packaging facilities (equipment), as well as manual inventory management in stores which results in a lack of business center performance. The purpose of this community service is to improve the entrepreneurial skills of students at the NU Kedungtuban Vocational School, especially the Online Business and Marketing Department. The method in this activity is training with the concept of project-based learning. The results of this PkM activity are the renewal of production and packaging equipment and the existence of an inventory application for the Business Center. The training activities resulted in an increase in skills in production and packaging as well as the use of an inventory application of at least 80%. It can be concluded that the PkM activity target was achieved and the training methods and intensive mentoring used proved to be effective in improving skills.
Starting Pediatric VAD Program: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities; A Case Series of a Single Center
Authors: Bakoš Matija , Novak Milivoj , Šarić Dalibor , Bartoniček Dorotea , Belina Dražen , Đurić Željko , Anić Darko , Čolak Željko , Konosić Sanja , Mihalec Marina , Rubić Filip , Matić Toni , Međimurec Goran , Planinc Mislav
Published: August 2023

Background: The prevalence of heart failure is constantly increasing in both children and adults. End-stage heart failure in children unresponsive to medical therapy has limited treatment options. Surgical options include heart transplantation or implantation of durable ventricular assist devices (VADs). To start the VAD program, it was necessary to train core team members, invite experienced proctors and adjust the organizational approach. Methods: We present our first seven pediatric patients who underwent a VAD implantation with primary indication end-stage dilated cardiomyopathy. Results: The median age on implant was four and a half years and the median duration of VAD support was 39 days with long term survival achieved in three patients. The causes of death were multiorgan failure, thromboembolic events, sepsis, and low cardiac output syndrome. Ischemic stroke was the reason for successful neurointervention during VAD support in two patients. Conclusions: To establish a VAD program, numerous specialties must be included with adequate training and learning for all team members.
Peran Kepala Madrasah dalam Meningkatkan Perilaku Organisasi di MTs Ma’arif Cijulang
Authors: Holisoh Elis , Aditya Rama , Nupusiah Ulpah
Published: August 2023

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui peran kepala madrasah dalam meningkatkan prilaku organisasi di Mts Ma’arif Curug Cijulang. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dengan Teknik pengumpulan data berupa observasi, wawancara dan dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa Upaya Kepala Sekolah Meningkatkan Harmoni Organisasi di Mts Ma'arif Curug Cijulang Keberhasilan proses pendidikan yang bermutu ditentukan oleh sepuluh faktor, yaitu: efektivitas kepemimpinan kepala sekolah, partisipasi dan rasa tanggung jawab guru, staf dan personel lainnya, proses belajar mengajar yang efektif, program pengembangan staf guru dan personel lainnya, kurikulum yang relevan dan fleksibel yang sesuai dengan perkembangan zaman, visi, misi dan strategi yang jelas, iklim sekolah yang kondusif, penilaian kelebihan dan kekurangan, komunikasi yang efektif baik internal maupun eksternal, serta keterlibatan orang tua dan masyarakat. Kepala sekolah Mts Ma'arif Curug Cijulang telah melakukan beberapa pembenahan baru untuk membangun hubungan komunikasi antara karyawan dan guru untuk menciptakan keharmonisan dalam organisasi, diantaranya kepala sekolah Mts Ma'arif Curug Cijulang mengadakan rapat koordinasi antar staf , pimpinan, guru dan karyawan, sebagai inovasi baru yang diisi dengan musyawarah bersama, sharing antara guru dan karyawan, serta berbagi pengalaman tentang tugas masing-masing, sehingga kegiatan ini diharapkan dapat mempererat hubungan yang harmonis antara guru dan karyawan, berkontribusi terhadap satu sama lain dan memberikan motivasi untuk melaksanakan tugas yang diberikan.
E-Module in Teaching Statistical Methods: An Asynchronous and Synchronous Delivery Mode Under the New Normal
Authors: Angeles Helen Grace
Published: August 2023

The study entitled E-module in teaching statistical methods: an asynchronous and synchronous delivery mode under new normal focused on the development and assessment of the e-module created using office mix. The e-module was developed with powerpoint presentation for each of the eight (8) lessons in statistics having audio or video explanation of the topics per slide exported as video presentation were shared by the researcher to the mathematics experts, IT experts and students for evaluation. The research adopted the ADDIE model from the analysis of the students that led in realizing the study up to the implementation and evaluation. Each of the lessons in the e-module was designed and developed based on the needs of the students.
The research findings of the mathematics experts, IT experts, and students favored the e-module as it was proven very acceptable and therefore highly recommended for use. In terms of the objectives, content, motivational or review activities, delivery of instruction, and formative assessment exercises evaluated by the mathematics experts, the grand mean was 3.62 indicating the e-module was really having acceptable standards. While the evaluation of the ICT experts revealed a grand mean of 3.77 indicating that the content, layout, design, usability and quality of the e-module are very acceptable and highly recommended for use. The students’ evaluation obtained a grand mean of 3.74 numerical description and interpretation that the content, layout, delivery of instruction, instructional use, and formative assessment exercises are also very acceptable and highly recommended for use. The evaluation of the students also resulted to the positive feedback while exploring and using the e-module that provided them with notable experiences about the office mix.
Les constitutions des instituts religieux et le droit canonique depuis le concile Vatican II : repères chronologiques
Authors: Tawil Emmanuel
Published: August 2023

L’aggiornamento des constitutions des instituts religieux voulu par le concile Vatican II a mis parfois plus de 10 ans avant d’aboutir à l’adoption de textes définitifs. Cette période, relativement longue, a donné lieu non seulement à une efflorescence de documents juridiques, parfois très créatifs, mais aussi à une réflexion sur le sens de la vie religieuse et le charisme des fondateurs. Lorsque le code de droit canonique de 1983 est entré en vigueur, les instituts avaient le plus souvent déjà dépassé cette phase transitoire.
De la pauvreté à la mise à jour des Constitutions de l’Ordre des Frères Mineurs
Authors: Buffon Giuseppe
Published: August 2023

Avec l’analyse de la mise à jour (aggiornamento) du texte des constitutions de l’Ordre des Frères Mineurs en 1971, l’étude entend aborder un changement d’identité fondamental pour l’histoire franciscaine : du concept de pauvreté, relatif à la dimension matérielle, juridique et patrimoniale à celui de minorité, concernant plutôt une attitude intérieure, une posture de marginalité spirituelle avant d’être sociale et économique. L’analyse de la métamorphose du texte des constitutions sera suivie par l’examen des quelques réunions importantes, notamment parmi les provinciaux d’Europe du Nord (à Noordwijkerhout et à Exaten), au cours desquelles il a été décidé de passer de la considération de la question pastorale à la prise en compte de la question de l’identité.
Miroir des attentes et de la mise en oeuvre de Perfectae caritatis et d’Ecclesiae sanctae : La Vie des communautés religieuses et l’adaptation de la vie consacrée
Authors: Auger Claude , Gagnon Louis-Joseph
Published: August 2023

Cet article conjoint est issu d’une communication présentée le 23 septembre 2022 au congrès annuel de la Société canadienne d’histoire de l’Église catholique sur la réforme des constitutions des communautés religieuses à l’aune du concile Vatican II. Il s’appuie sur un dépouillement des articles de la Vie des communautés religieuses (VCR). Fondée en 1942, la VCR est la principale revue de langue française dédiée au phénomène de la vie consacrée en Amérique du Nord. Elle constitue un matériau de première importance pour mesurer l’impact des changements provoqués par le concile Vatican II dans les congrégations religieuses du Québec et du Canada francophone. De1942 à 1980, les articles attestent d’une attention subtile, mais soutenue, aux constitutions qui sont approchées sous l’angle prédominant de la théologie. Mais c’est avant tout le contexte théologique de l’époque – l’adaptation et la rénovation de la vie religieuse aux temps modernes, titre repris par le décret Perfectae caritatis – qui fournit la clé de lecture permettant de faire le pont avec la réforme des constitutions des instituts religieux dans les articles publiés par la VCR.
Les Constitutions des Soeurs de Notre-Dame du Perpétuel Secours : évolution
identitaire, spirituelle et structurelle
Authors: Guillemette Gaétane
Published: August 2023

L’évolution des Constitutions des Soeurs de Notre-Dame du Perpétuel Secours
s’inscrit dans un parcours historique, socioculturel, ecclésial et religieux spécifique
selon les époques. De 1892 à 1982, la rédaction et la révision des Constitutions connaissent
des étapes d’avancée, de stagnation et de réajustement sans pour autant perdre le caractère
propre de l’institut. La Tradition de la congrégation, avec sa physionomie spirituelle, sa
manière de penser, de vivre et d’agir, en influence le contenu. Patrimoine vivant et
dynamique, le défi des Constitutions est d’assurer stabilité, adaptation et incarnation dans
le temps, les cultures et pays d’insertion de l’institut, en fidélité au
charisme.
Documentation et mobilisation des traditions juridiques autochtones comme fondements normatifs d’ordres juridiques contemporains : de quelques approches méthodologiques possibles
Authors: Farget Doris , Houde Nicolas
Published: August 2023

Cet article présente la démarche qui a précédé la mise en oeuvre du projet de recherche Tan tshe eishi nashekanitsh ka ui pukuhutishuanuatsh Pekuakamiulnuatsh — vers une constitution des Pekuakamiulnuatsh. Ce projet a été coconstruit avec la communauté ilnue de Mashteuiatsh, en raison de l’intérêt que cette dernière a manifesté à l’égard de l’importance de documenter ses propres traditions juridiques. Comme trame de départ, cette démarche a été animée par la question de savoir comment d’autres avant nous avaient procédé pour entreprendre la documentation de traditions juridiques autochtones au sein du territoire qu’est aujourd’hui le Canada. Cet article fait donc état des principales approches méthodologiques et théoriques qui balisent actuellement le travail mené par les juristes et les communautés quant aux traditions juridiques autochtones en ce territoire. Par cette revue de la littérature croisant plusieurs champs disciplinaires, nous avons cherché à identifier des outils et des perspectives qui pouvaient inspirer les démarches de documentation des traditions juridiques autochtones au Québec. Cet article vise ainsi à rassembler en un même document les principaux outils et les perspectives théoriques utiles pour la recherche sur les ordres juridiques autochtones.
Shared and distinct pathways and networks genetically linked to coronary artery disease between human and mouse
Authors: Kurt Zeyneb , Cheng Jenny , Barrere-Cain Rio , McQuillen Caden N , Saleem Zara , Hsu Neil , Jiang Nuoya , Pan Calvin , Franzén Oscar , Koplev Simon , Wang Susanna , Björkegren Johan , Lusis Aldons J , Blencowe Montgomery , Yang Xia
Published: August 2023

Mouse models have been used extensively to study human coronary artery disease (CAD) or atherosclerosis and to test therapeutic targets. However, whether mouse and human share similar genetic factors and pathogenic mechanisms of atherosclerosis has not been thoroughly investigated in a data-driven manner. We conducted a cross-species comparison study to better understand atherosclerosis pathogenesis between species by leveraging multiomics data. Specifically, we compared genetically driven and thus CAD-causal gene networks and pathways, by using human GWAS of CAD from the CARDIoGRAMplusC4D consortium and mouse GWAS of atherosclerosis from the Hybrid Mouse Diversity Panel (HMDP) followed by integration with functional multiomics human (STARNET and GTEx) and mouse (HMDP) databases. We found that mouse and human shared >75% of CAD causal pathways. Based on network topology, we then predicted key regulatory genes for both the shared pathways and species-specific pathways, which were further validated through the use of single cell data and the latest CAD GWAS. In sum, our results should serve as a much-needed guidance for which human CAD-causal pathways can or cannot be further evaluated for novel CAD therapies using mouse models.
Shared and distinct pathways and networks genetically linked to coronary artery disease between human and mouse
Authors: Kurt Zeyneb , Cheng Jenny , McQuillen Caden N. , Saleem Zara , Hsu Neil , Jiang Nuoya , Barrere-Cain Rio , Pan Calvin , Franzen Oscar , Koplev Simon , Wang Susanna , Bjorkegren Johan , Lusis Aldons J. , Blencowe Montgomery , Yang Xia
Published: August 2023

Mouse models have been used extensively to study human coronary artery disease (CAD) and to test therapeutic targets. However, whether mouse and human share similar genetic factors and pathogenic mechanisms of CAD has not been thoroughly investigated in a data-driven manner. We conducted a cross-species comparison study to better understand CAD pathogenesis between species by leveraging multiomics data. Specifically, we compared genetically driven and thus CAD-causal gene networks and pathways, by using human GWAS of CAD from the CARDIoGRAMplusC4D consortium and mouse GWAS of atherosclerosis from the Hybrid Mouse Diversity Panel (HMDP) followed by integration with functional multiomics human (STARNET and GTEx) and mouse (HMDP) databases. We found that mouse and human shared >75% of CAD causal pathways. Based on network topology, we then predicted key regulatory genes for both the shared pathways and species-specific pathways, which were further validated through the use of single cell data and the latest CAD GWAS. In sum, our results should serve as a much-needed guidance for which human CAD-causal pathways can or cannot be further evaluated for novel CAD therapies using mouse models.
Transcriptional immune suppression and up-regulation of double-stranded DNA damage and repair repertoires in ecDNA-containing tumors
Authors: Lin Miin S , Jo Se-Young , Luebeck Jens , Chang Howard Y , Wu Sihan , Mischel Paul S , Bafna Vineet
Published: August 2023

Extrachromosomal DNA is a common cause of oncogene amplification in cancer. The non-chromosomal inheritance of ecDNA enables tumors to rapidly evolve, contributing to treatment resistance and poor outcome for patients. The transcriptional context in which ecDNAs arise and progress, including chromosomally-driven transcription, is incompletely understood. We examined gene expression patterns of 870 tumors of varied histological types, to identify transcriptional correlates of ecDNA. Here, we show that ecDNA-containing tumors impact four major biological processes. Specifically, ecDNA-containing tumors up-regulate DNA damage and repair, cell cycle control, and mitotic processes, but down-regulate global immune regulation pathways. Taken together, these results suggest profound alterations in gene regulation in ecDNA-containing tumors, shedding light on molecular processes that give rise to their development and progression.
The involvement of the human prefrontal cortex in the emergence of visual awareness
Authors: Fang Zepeng , Dang Yuanyuan , Ling Zhipei , Han Yongzheng , Zhao Hulin , Xu Xin , Zhang Mingsha
Published: August 2023

Exploring the neural mechanisms of awareness is a fundamental task of cognitive neuroscience. There is an ongoing dispute regarding the role of the prefrontal cortex (PFC) in the emergence of awareness, which is partially raised by the confound between report- and awareness-related activity. To address this problem, we designed a visual awareness task that can minimize report-related motor confounding. Our results show that saccadic latency is significantly shorter in the aware trials than in the unaware trials. Local field potential (LFP) data from six patients consistently show early (200–300ms) awareness-related activity in the PFC, including event-related potential and high-gamma activity. Moreover, the awareness state can be reliably decoded by the neural activity in the PFC since the early stage, and the neural pattern is dynamically changed rather than being stable during the representation of awareness. Furthermore, the enhancement of dynamic functional connectivity, through the phase modulation at low frequency, between the PFC and other brain regions in the early stage of the awareness trials may explain the mechanism of conscious access. These results indicate that the PFC is critically involved in the emergence of awareness.
Deciphering molecular heterogeneity and dynamics of neural stem cells in human hippocampal development, aging, and injury
Authors: Yao Junjun , Dai Shaoxing , Zhu Ran , Tan Ju , Zhao Qiancheng , Yin Yu , Sun Jiansen , Du Xuewei , Ge Longjiao , Xu Jianhua , Hou Chunli , Li Nan , Li Jun , Ji Weizhi , Zhu Chuhong , Zhang Runrui , Li Tianqing
Published: August 2023

While accumulated publications support the existence of neurogenesis in the adult human hippocampus, the homeostasis and developmental potentials of neural stem cells (NSCs) under different contexts remain unclear. Based on our generated single-nucleus atlas of the human hippocampus across neonatal, adult, aging and injury, we dissected the molecular heterogeneity and transcriptional dynamics of human hippocampal NSCs under different contexts. We further identified new specific neurogenic lineage markers that overcome the lack of specificity found in some well-known markers. Based on developmental trajectory and molecular signatures, we found that a subset of NSCs exhibit quiescent properties after birth, and most NSCs become deep quiescence during aging. Furthermore, certain deep quiescent NSCs are re-activated following stroke injury. Together, our findings provide valuable insights into the development, aging, and re-activation of the human hippocampal NSCs, and help to explain why adult hippocampal neurogenesis is infrequently observed in humans.
Psychological Well-being of Late Adolescents in Urban Karnataka and Tamil Nadu during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Augustine Anjali Maria , Kamath Nidhi , Kota Keshava Pai
Published: August 2023

Introduction: The Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and prolonged lockdowns has impacted the mental health of adolescents. Late adolescence is an age peculiarly vulnerable to mental health issues, and very few studies have exclusively focused on this age group during the pandemic. Aim: To evaluate the presence and severity of anxiety and depression symptoms among late adolescents (15-18 years), taking into account their socio-demographic variables and additional stressors like board exams during the pandemic in India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnairebased study was conducted in High schools in Urban Karnataka and Urban Tamil Nadu from October 2020 to December 2021 with snowball sampling. An online form was given to 104 students, which included socio-demographic data, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9, adopted for adolescents), and the Generalised Anxiety Disorder Assessment (GAD-7) questionnaires. The participants were divided into two groups for subgroup analysis. Group-1 constituted standard X and XII and Group-2 constituted standard XI. Unpaired t-tests, Spearman’s correlations, and univariate analysis of variance were used for data analysis. Results: A total of 104 late adolescents from an urban setting participated in the study. A total of 24% had significant clinical depression, and 20.2% had significant anxiety levels. Board exams did not influence the presence of depression or anxiety. Among the socio-demographic variables, presence or absence of pets caused significant differences in PHQ 9(A) levels between the two groups (p=0.01). The PHQ-9(A) scores for Group-1 (p=0.031) and Group-2 (p=0.001) showed a significant correlation with increased social media usage. GAD-7 scores also showed a significant correlation with increased social media usage in both groups (Group-1, p<0.001 and Group-2, p=0.018) and the presence of siblings in Group-2 (p=0.010). No other variable showed a significant correlation with PHQ-9(A) and GAD 7 scores in the groups. Suicide risk and ideation were seen in 17.7% of the cohort. Conclusion: The study revealed the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the mental health of late adolescents. The increased usage of social media impacted depression and anxiety levels.
Development of a Genetic Algorithm Based Geodesic Active Contour for Iris Based Ethnicity Prediction System
Authors: Makinde Bukola O. , Fenwa Olusayo D. , Falohun Adeleye S. , Adedeji Oluyinka T.
Published: August 2023

The developments in science and technology have made it possible to use biometrics in applications where it is required to establish or confirm the identity of individuals. Among all possible biometric characteristics, the use of iris texture for recognition of individuals has been proven to be highly reliable. However, existing iris prediction systems have suffered from inability to handle more constrained acquisition (processing non-ideal iris images), high processing time and inappropriate parameter settings which usually results in inaccurate segmentation and poor classification results. This research therefore developed an improved segmentation and classification algorithms for iris-based ethnicity prediction system featuring the three major tribes in Nigeria.  Six hundred (600) iris images from three major tribes in Nigeria (Yoruba, Hausa and Ibo) were locally captured for the database. Genetic Algorithm based Geodesic Active Contour (GAGAC) and standard Geodesic Active Control (GAC) were used for iris segmentation while Standard Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Galactic Swarm Optimisation SVM (GSOSVM) was used for iris classification. GAGAC and GSOSVM were used in the designing of the iris-based ethnicity prediction system at segmentation and classification stage. The developed iris-based ethnicity prediction system gave an improved predictive performance over the conventional one. The developed system can be used in different areas where higher security authentication is required.
Risk-return Performance of Residential Property Investment in Lagos, Nigeria: A Quantitative Survey Analysis From 2001 to 2021
Authors: Medale Oluwafunbi Kemisola , Ezeokoli Nnaemeka Bethel
Published: August 2023

Aim: To evaluate the risk-return performance of residential property investment between 2001 and 2021 in Lagos, Nigeria.

Study Design: Quantitative Survey research.

Place and Duration of Study: Eti-osa and Somolu LGA, Lagos State, 2022.

Methodology: Survey with structured questionnaire collected primary data on non-owner-occupied residential property investments in Somolu and Eti-Osa, Lagos, Nigeria. Estate surveying and valuation firm provided the data. Analysis used descriptive statistics (charts, tables, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation) and trend analysis over 20 years (2001-2021) to assess risk-return performance. This included rental index, rental growth rate, standard deviation, and coefficient of variation.

Results: In Eti-Osa, duplexes had a high expected return of 54.04% with a risk of 18.58. Bungalows and flats had lower returns of 44.61% and 41.8% with risks of 16.38 and 15.39, respectively. Duplexes performed best with a coefficient of variation of 0.34, followed by bungalows and flats at 0.37 each. In Somolu, self-contained and duplex properties performed best with returns of 19.12% and 19.08% but higher risks of 14.82 and 17.08. Bungalows and tenement buildings had returns of 15.5% and 15.32% with lower risks of 10.43 and 8.25. Self-contained apartments had the lowest return of 13.31% and low risk of 6.57, performing best in risk-return with coefficient of variation of 0.49. Overall, Eti-Osa properties performed better than Somolu.

Conclusion: The study shows that rental prices experienced an overall upward trend, with flats and bungalows exhibiting higher rental growth rates compared to other property types. Appreciation rates varied across property categories, with duplexes in Eti-Osa and bungalows in Somolu showing higher average annual appreciation rates. Anticipated yield and risk varied among property types, with duplexes having the highest anticipated yield but also the highest level of risk. Therefore, this study recommends that investors prioritize flats and bungalows in Eti-Osa and Somolu, Lagos for higher rental growth and appreciation. Evaluate duplex risks, as they offer greater returns but entail elevated risk.
Exchange Rate Pass-through Dynamics: VAR Evidence for Kenya
Authors: Njenga John K.
Published: August 2023

A VAR framework with exogenous variable is considered to analyse the exchange rate pass-through dynamics in Kenya. Monthly time series data from January 2006 to December 2022 is used. Six endogenous variables namely; US dollar exchange rate, broad money supply, total import, 20 Nairobi stock exchange share index, consumer price index and 91 days treasury bond rate sourced from the central bank of Kenya were considered. Global food price index and oil prices per barrel sourced from statista and Murban Adnoc respectively are the exogenous variables. Unit root test is first performed to test for stationary in line with VAR assumptions. Oil price and total import are the only stationary variables, while the other variables are of integrated order 1. Secondly, a VARX (2,0) is estimated, which is statistically significant at 5% level. Thirdly, Granger causality test is performed, that provide evidence of causality for 20 Nairobi stock exchange share index, consumer price index and broad money supply with respect to other endogenous variables. In addition, VARX(2,0) is converted to MA(2) to develop US dollars impulse response function. There exist high level of volatility for all variables. Finally, a forecast error variance decomposition following Cholesky decomposition shows significant proportion of variance explained by other variables respectively. Kenya’s policy makers need to build strong framework for monetary policy and exchange rate control measures in safeguarding the performance of macroeconomic indicators.
Effect of the Aqueous Extract of Corchorus olitorius L. on the Lipid Parameters of Rats Subjected to a Hyperlipidic Diet
Authors: Delor Kamenan Koua Christ , Raoul Brahima Kouamé Koffi , Bognan Ackah Jacques Auguste Alfred
Published: August 2023

Background: Advances in physiological data, clinical research and medico-economic findings have led to considering obesity as a pathogenic situation, even a real disease. Measures should be taken to stop the spread of this pathology associated with abnormalities in glucose and lipid metabolism. Thus, a plant species was tested to assess its effect on lipid parameters.

Method: the aqueous extract of the plant Corchorus olitorius L. was tested on female rats subjected to a hyperlipidic diet and the biochemical parameters were evaluated. In addition, a phytochemical characterization was carried out.

Results: The high fat diet led to overeating and weight gain. The aqueous extract of Corchorus olitorius L. contains bioactive molecules, which favored the reduction of plasma and tissue levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL and an increase in HDL levels in rats subjected to a hyperlipidic diet.

Conclusion: The aqueous extract of Corchorus olitorius L. has beneficial effects on lipid disorders.
Fruit Peels as Biofertilizers and Biopesticides for Sustainable Agriculture and Horticulture: A Review
Authors: Devi Okram Bijaya , Singh Anita , Raising L. Peace , Sherpa Tshering Lhamu , Haokip Songthat William , Hazarika Sanjay , Khan Anam
Published: August 2023

The annual increase in global population of 1.1% necessitates increased agricultural yields to provide a sustainable food supply, which necessitates the extensive use of chemical fertiliser and pesticide. This practise, however, causes a number of environmental and health issues, which ultimately drives the creation of safer organic fertilisers and bio-pesticides. Organic fertiliser comprises various antioxidants and carbonaceous matter, which are inexpensive and safe elements utilised for plant growth. While inorganic fertiliser is typically made entirely, such as sulphate of ammonia, they may also be processed from quarries. One must need to develop other sustainable alternative to meet the demand of world's expanding population, thereby meeting the SDGs of poverty eradication, zero hunger, and climate action.One possible technique is to use fruit peels as biofertilizers and bio pesticides. Fruit peels are often discarded in the garbage and taken to a solid waste dumping facility. Because of the breakdown of peel material at the disposal location, this generates an odour problem. Ergothis is critical for establishing the peel as a significant bio resource in worldwide organic agriculture development, reducing solid waste accumulation in the environment with its attendant public health threat, and documenting a long-term management technique. Fruit peels are high in nutrients such as potassium, calcium, iron, zinc,calcium, citrate content, and other minerals.
Exploring the Impact of Virtual Reality Technology on International Tourism During the Period 2018 to 2023
Authors: Jassim Dr. Radhi Hammoud
Published: August 2023

This research study aims to explore the intersection of virtual reality with international tourism from 2018 to 2023, identifying the opportunities and challenges presented during this period of rapid technological progress. In this study the literature on the integration of virtual reality in international tourism is reviewed and current theories, concepts and empirical studies are analyzed by studying the developments, trends and research results in this area, identify opportunities to enhance tourist experiences using virtual reality technology. And conduct a comprehensive analysis of the challenges and limitations associated with the intersection of virtual reality with international tourism, including technological developments, infrastructure requirements, data security, privacy concerns and preserving the authenticity of tourist places and analyze the data collected to extract insights on the impacts, benefits and limitations of integrating virtual reality into international tourism. The results of this study also contribute to providing a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and challenges arising from the intersection of virtual reality and international tourism from 2018 to 2023, and aims to inform industry stakeholders, policy makers and researchers about the possibility of leveraging virtual reality to enhance tourism experiences and guide the responsible adoption of virtual reality technologies in the tourism sector
Evaluation of residential reorganization from the living environment before and after group relocation (part 1): Focusing on the living environment and community
Authors: Tomobuchi Takayuki , Tsukihashi Osamu , Yamazaki Juichi
Published: August 2023

The reorganization of residential areas through mass relocation has had 3 impacts on the living environment of the village. Owing to the reduction in the area of the site, the residential space has lost the room for inviting non‐family members. The number of houses with gardens and fields has also decreased. As the density of housing has increased, more people are concerned about the view from the outside. As a result, many houses close their curtains. The trust among residents is still high today.
Recent Advances of LATP and Their NASICON Structure as a Solid‐State Electrolyte for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yin Jian-Hong , Zhu Hua , Yu Shi-Jin , Dong Yue-Bing , Wei Quan-Ya , Xu Guo-Qian , Xiong Yan , Qian Yan
Published: August 2023

The organic electrolyte in commercial liquid lithium‐ion batteries is volatile, prone to low‐temperature failure, has a declining safety performance at high temperatures, and is susceptible to serious side reactions with electrodes. The current research hotspots are solid‐state electrolytes with high energy densities and high safety performance. The next‐generation lithium metal solid‐state battery electrolyte is expected to be Li1+xAlxTi2−x(PO4)3 (LATP) with a sodium superionic conductor structure due to its high ionic conductivity, high energy density, and good stability in air. In this article, a review of the crystal structure of LATP, lithium‐ion diffusion channels, synthesis methods, factors affecting high ionic conductivity, and regulation and application of interfacial stability is presented. This effectively addresses the problems of LATP in current applications and facilitates the promotion of all‐solid‐state batteries in future applications.
On the Reliability of Automated Analysis of Fracture Surfaces Using a Novel Computer Vision‐Based Tool
Authors: Engelhardt Anna , Decke Jens , Meier David , Dulig Franz , Ragunathan Rishan , Wegener Thomas , Sick Bernhard , Niendorf Thomas
Published: August 2023

Fracture surface analysis is of utmost importance with respect to structural integrity of metallic materials. This especially holds true for additively manufactured materials. Despite an increasing trend of automatization of testing methods, the analysis and classification of fatigue fracture surface images is commonly done manually by experts. Although this leads to correct results in most cases, it has several disadvantages, e.g., the need of a huge knowledge base to interpret images correctly. In present work, an unsupervised tool for analysis of overview images of fatigue fracture surface images is developed to support nonexperienced users to identify the origin of the fracture. The tool is developed using fracture surface images of additively manufactured Ti6Al4V specimens fatigued in the high‐cycle‐fatigue regime and is based on the identification of river marks. Several recording parameters seem to have no significant influence on the results as long as preprocessing settings are adapted. Moreover, it is possible to analyze images of other materials with the tool as long as the fracture surfaces contain river marks. However, special features like multiple origins or origins located in direct vicinity to the surface, e.g., caused by increased plastic strains, require a further tool development or alternative approaches.
Pump‐Less Platform Enables Long‐Term Recirculating Perfusion of 3D Printed Tubular Tissues
Authors: Zhang Feng , Lin Dawn S. Y. , Rajasekar Shravanthi , Sotra Alexander , Zhang Boyang
Published: August 2023

The direction and pattern of fluid flow affect vascular structure and function, in which vessel‐lining endothelial cells exhibit variable cellular morphologies and vessel remodeling by mechanosensing. To recapitulate this microenvironment, some approaches have been reported to successfully apply unidirectional flow on endothelial cells in organ‐on‐a‐chip systems. However, these platforms encounter drawbacks such as the dependency on pumps or confinement to closed microfluidic channels. These constraints impede their synergy with advanced biofabrication techniques like 3D bioprinting, thereby curtailing the potential to introduce greater complexity into engineered tissues. Herein, a pumpless recirculating platform (UniPlate) that enables unidirectional media recirculation through 3D printed tubular tissues, is demonstrated.The device is made of polystyrene via injection molding in combination with 3D printed sacrifical gelatin templates. Tubular blood vessels with unidirectional perfusion are firstly engineered. Then the design is expanded to incorporate duo‐recirculating flow for culturing vascularized renal proximal tubules with glucose reabsorption function. In addition to media recirculation, human monocyte recirculation in engineered blood vessels is also demonstrated for over 24 h, with minimal loss of cells, cell viability, and inflammatory activation. UniPlate can be a valuable tool to more precisely control the cellular microenvironment of organ‐on‐a‐chip systems for drug discovery.
A Nanodisc‐Paved Biobridge Facilitates Stem Cell Membrane Fusogenicity for Intracerebral Shuttling and Bystander Effects
Authors: Jin Yi , Tang Zhiyuan , Shang Shibeilei , Chen Yun , Han Guochen , Song Mingjie , Zhou Jianping , Zhang Huaqing , Ding Yang
Published: August 2023

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapies experience steadfast clinical advances but are still hindered by inefficient site‐specific migration. An adaptable MSC membrane fusogenicity technology is conceptualized for lipid raft‐mediated targeting ligand embedding by using toolkits of discoidal high‐density lipoprotein (HDL)‐containing biomimicking 4F peptides. According to the pathological clues of brain diseases, the vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 specialized VBP peptide is fused with 4F to assemble 4F‐VBP (HDL), which acts as a biobridge and transfers VBP onto the living cell membrane via lipid rafts for surface engineering of MSCs in suspension. When compared with the membrane‐modifying strategies of PEGylated phospholipids, 4F‐VBP (HDL) provides a 3.86 higher linkage efficiency to obtain MSCs4F–VBP(HDL), which can recognize and adhere to the inflammatory endothelium for efficient blood–brain barrier crossing and brain accumulation. In APPswe/PSEN1dE9 mice with Alzheimer's disease (AD), the transcriptomic analysis reveals that systemic administration of MSCs4F–VBP(HDL) can activate pathways associated with neuronal activity and diminish neuroinflammation for rewiring AD brains. This customizable HDL‐mediated membrane fusogenicity platform primes MSC inflammatory brain delivery, which can be expanded to other disease treatments by simply fusing 4F with relevant ligands for living cell engineering.
Impact of development periods on chemical properties and bioactive components of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) varieties
Authors: Yilmaz Merve , Geçgel Ümit , Apaydin Demet , Culpan Emrullah
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to determine the chemical properties (fatty acid composition, oil content, sterol and tocopherol compositions) of the oils extracted from the seeds of safflower (Dinçer, Remzibey, Balci, Linas, Yenice, Olas) varieties harvested in different periods from flowering to ripening period. In parallel with the increase of harvest time, the humidity rate decreased, while the oil ratios increased. It was determined that palmitic (16:0) and stearic (18:0) acids, which are significant saturated fatty acids, and oleic (18:1) and linoleic (18:2) acids, which are unsaturated fatty acids, are quite high in the oils of all safflower varieties. These fatty acids showed significant changes from the first harvest to the last harvest. The total saturated fatty acid ratios decreased, while the amount of unsaturated fatty acids increased as the maturation progressed. The first and latest harvest samples of Dinçer, Remzibey, Balcı, Linas, Yenice, Olas cultivars were selected and their sterol and tocopherol compositions were examined. The highest level of sterol in all cultivars was β‐sitosterol and the amount of sterols decreased towards full maturity. It was determined that α‐tocopherol was the dominant tocopherol found in the safflower oils and the amount of tocopherol increased towards full maturity.
Preparation and corrosion resistance study of two‐dimensional mica‐based composite coatings modified with UIO‐66 and polyethyleneimine
Authors: Guo Shijie , Yu Zongxue , Peng Bokai , Chen Haidong , Guo Yuchi , Chen Jiahui
Published: August 2023

Numerous challenges arise from metal corrosion, including economic loss, environmental pollution, and safety issues. Epoxy coatings, as a solution to metal corrosion problems, have been widely used worldwide. The improvement of epoxy coating performance is also a major focus of research. In this paper, we employed a hydrothermal method to load UIO‐66 crystals onto a two‐dimensional mica substrate, while simultaneously modifying the surface with polyethyleneimine (PEI) to enhance the compatibility of the filler in the epoxy coating. The water absorption and adhesion of the PMC‐UIO(4:1)/EP coating were optimized after the addition of the modified filler, with the adhesion strength of the PMC‐UIO(4:1)/EP coating improved to 8.28 MPa. In terms of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, the PMC‐UIO(4:1)/EP coating manifested long‐lasting and superior corrosion resistance. Specifically, the electrochemical impedance modulus of this coating reached as high as 1011. Remarkably, even after immersion in a 3.5 wt% sodium chloride solution for 30 days, the coating maintained an impedance value order of magnitude at 109, which is unparalleled among all the composite coatings studied, demonstrating its exceptional corrosion resistance.
Continuous precipitation‐filtration process for initial capture of a monoclonal antibody product using a four‐stage countercurrent hollow fiber membrane washing step
Authors: Minervini Mirko , Mergy Matthew , Zhu Yuncan , Gutierrez Diaz Mario A. , Pointer Craig , Shinkazh Oleg , Oppenheim Sheldon F. , Cramer Steven M. , Przybycien Todd M. , Zydney Andrew L.
Published: August 2023

The significant increase in product titers, coupled with the growing focus on continuous bioprocessing, has renewed interest in using precipitation as a low‐cost alternative to Protein A chromatography for the primary capture of monoclonal antibody (mAb) products. In this work, a commercially relevant mAb was purified from clarified cell culture fluid using a tubular flow precipitation reactor with dewatering and washing provided by tangential flow microfiltration. The particle morphology was evaluated using an inline high‐resolution optical probe, providing quantitative data on the particle size distribution throughout the precipitation process. Data were obtained in both a lab‐built 2‐stage countercurrent washing system and a commercial countercurrent contacting skid that provided 4 stages of continuous washing. The processes were operated continuously for 2 h with overall mAb yield of 92 ± 3% and DNA removal of nearly 3 logs in the 4‐stage system. The high DNA clearance was achieved by selective redissolution of the mAb using a low pH acetate buffer. Host cell protein clearance was 0.59 ± 0.08 logs, comparable to that based on model predictions. The process mass intensity was slightly better than typical Protein A processes and could be significantly improved by preconcentration of the antibody feed material.
An Insight into Synthesis of the Antifreeze Alkaline Hydrogel Electrolyte: Fine‐Tuning Chemistries for Efficient Ion Transport
Authors: Khor Chun Keat , Blackstone Chance Coady , Ignaszak Anna
Published: August 2023

Invited for this issue's Front Cover is the group of Prof. Anna Ignaszak from the University of New Brunswick (Canada). The cover picture shows the structure of a leakage‐free polymer electrolyte that sustains its ionic conductivity and mechanical resilience at extremely cold temperature. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/celc.202300113.
Economists' Folk Theorems and Problems with the US Energy Transition
Authors: Makholm Jeff D.
Published: August 2023

Proposition: For the challenges facing the US energy transition to renewable electricity, and renewable energy generally, organized US wholesale electricity markets are part of the problem.