bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Process of Recording Accounting and Reporting of Groundwater Tax Receipts
Authors: MONGDONG Jeremia Jonathan Julio , KALANGI Lintje , KINDANGEN Wulan
Published: April 2023

Groundwater Tax is a local tax imposed on the withdrawal and/or utilization of groundwater, excluded for the withdrawal and/or utilization of groundwater for basic household needs, irrigation of agriculture and smallholder fisheries, worship, and the withdrawal and/or utilization of groundwater regulated by regional regulations. This research was conducted at the Regional Revenue and Financial Management Agency of Tomohon City. The purpose of this research is to analyze the Accounting and Reporting Process of Groundwater Tax Revenue in Tomohon City based on Government Regulation Number 71 of 2010 concerning Government Accounting Standards and Minister of Home Affairs Regulation Number 77 of 2020 concerning Technical Guidelines for Regional Financial Management. The research method used is a qualitative descriptive method which aims to describe, record, analyze, and interpret the conditions that occur in the research object. The results showed that the Accounting and Reporting Process of Groundwater Tax Revenue at the Regional Revenue and Financial Management Agency of Tomohon City was in accordance with Government Regulation Number 71 of 2010 concerning Government Accounting Standards and Minister of Home Affairs Regulation Number 77 of 2020 concerning Technical Guidelines for Regional Financial Management.
Analysis of Value Added Tax Accounting Treatment at PT Daya Anugrah Mandiri Airmadidi Branch
Authors: ANTOW Angelica , GAMALIEL Hendrik , WANGKAR Anneke
Published: April 2023

Value Added Tax (VAT) is a levy imposed on every sale and purchase transaction of goods and services carried out by individual taxpayers or business entities that have received the status of a Taxable Entrepreneur (PKP). The last amendment to the VAT Law is in Law Number 7 of 2021 concerning the Harmonization of Tax Regulations (UU HPP). PT Daya Anugrah Mandiri or better known as Daya Motor is a subsidiary of the Daya Group engaged in the retail sector of Honda motorcycles. Every purchase and sale of motorbikes carried out by PT Daya Anugrah Mandiri Airmadidi Branch is inseparable from the imposition of Value Added Tax (PPN). The purpose of this study is to find out how the VAT accounting treatment is at PT Daya Anugrah Mandiri Airmadidi Branch. This study used descriptive qualitative method. Researchers will explain the data obtained through interviews, observation, documentation, so as to get answers to problems in detail and clearly. The results of this study indicate that 4 aspects of the VAT accounting treatment at PT Daya Anugrah  Mandiri Airmadidi Branch are in accordance with existing tax provisions and regulations, namely recognition, calculation, presentation, and reporting. But the recording is not appropriate because there is a recording error which results in data differences.
Application Gas, Implementation ICS, and CAF on QFR With HRC Moderating Variable
Authors: SUKMA Aan , HIDAYAH Nurul
Published: April 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of the application of Government Accounting Standards, the application of Internal Control Systems and Completion of audit findings on the Quality of Financial Statements with Competence of Human Resources as a moderating variable. The research design method uses a survey method with data collection methods using a questionnaire. The population in this study were employees of 32 financial administration employees in the Regional Work Unit (SKPD) of Lahat Regency, using a purposive sampling technique, so that 90 employees were selected as the research sample. The analysis technique used is SmartPLS software version 4.0.8.5. The results of the analysis show that simultaneous and partial testing, the application of Government Accounting Standards, the application of the Internal Control System and the completion of audit findings have a significant effect on the quality of financial reports. Meanwhile, the competence of human resources is not able to moderate the influence between the application of Government Accounting Standards, Internal Control Systems and completion of audit findings on the Quality of Financial Statements. The coefficient of determination is 92.5 percent, while the remaining 7.5 percent is explained by other variables.
ICS Effectiveness, Application AIS, HRC on Good Governance and Impact Quality FS
Authors: MARZUKI Ismail , HIDAYAH Nurul
Published: April 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of the effectiveness of the internal control system, the application of accounting information systems, and the competence of human resources on the implementation of good governance and its impact on the quality of regional financial statements. This research was conducted at the Regional Organization (OPD) in South Tangerang City using the purposive sampling method and conducted a survey of 30 OPD as a research sample. Data collection was carried out by distributing questionnaires to 100 respondents. The data analysis method uses descriptive statistical analysis using SEM PLS as an analytical tool in this study. The results showed that: the effectiveness of the internal control system has a positive and significant effect on good governance, the application of the accounting information system does not have a significant effect on good governance, Human resource competence does not have a significant effect on good governance, the effectiveness of internal control does not have a significant effect on the quality of financial statements, the establishment of accounting information systems has no significant effect on financial statements, human resource competence has no significant effect on financial statements, and good governance has a positive and significant impact on the quality of financial statements.
Spatio-temporal distribution characteristics of the risk of viral hepatitis B incidence based on INLA in 14 prefectures of Xinjiang from 2004 to 2019
Authors: Wang Yijia , Xie Na , Wang Zhe , Ding Shuzhen , Hu Xijian , Wang Kai
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to explore the spatio-temporal distribution characteristics and risk factors of hepatitis B (HB) in 14 prefectures of Xinjiang, China, and to provide a relevant reference basis for the prevention and treatment of HB. Based on HB incidence data and risk factor indicators in 14 prefectures in Xinjiang from 2004 to 2019, we explored the distribution characteristics of the risk of HB incidence using global trend analysis and spatial autocorrelation analysis and established a Bayesian spatiotemporal model to identify the risk factors of HB and their spatio-temporal distribution to fit and extrapolate the Bayesian spatiotemporal model using the Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation (INLA) method. There was spatial autocorrelation in the risk of HB and an overall increasing trend from west to east and north to south. The natural growth rate, per capita GDP, number of students, and number of hospital beds per 10, 000 people were all significantly associated with the risk of HB incidence. From 2004 to 2019, the risk of HB increased annually in 14 prefectures in Xinjiang, with Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Urumqi City, Karamay City, and Bayangol Mongol Autonomous Prefecture having the highest rates.
The Impact of Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic on Female Patients Seeking or Undergoing Fertility Treatment in a Single In Vitro Fertilisation Clinic in Greece
Authors: Pappa Konstantina , Xydias Emmanouil M. , Ziogas Apostolos C. , Bimba Kanelina , Tsakos Elias , Kolibianakis Efstratios
Published: April 2023

Background:

The temporary delay in fertility treatments due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, in combination with the imposed lockdowns, has created psychological distress and anxiety amongst infertile patients.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to evaluate how the pandemic has influenced assisted reproduction technology (ART) patients in Greece, during the second wave of the pandemic. An additional aim was to examine the effects of the pandemic on cross-border patients in particular, compared to national ones.

Settings and Design:

This study was a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study, distributed to 409 patients of a single in vitro fertilisation (IVF) clinic in Greece, during the period between January until the end of April 2021.

Materials and Methods:

The survey was conducted online via E-mail and was distributed to national and international female patients of a single IVF clinic in Greece, who were undergoing ART treatment during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Patient participation was anonymous, and participants provided informed consent for collection and publication of data.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The mean values of baseline characteristics, along with answer percentages per questionnaire item, were calculated. Collected data were cross-tabulated, and the Chi-square test was used as a measurement of the differences between national and cross-border patients. A P value lower than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. All analyses were conducted using the SPSS Statistics software.

Results:

From 409 initial candidates, 106 women, with a mean age of 41.2 years, completed the questionnaire (26% response rate). The majority of national patients did not experience any delays in their fertility plans (62%), while cross-border patients experienced over 6 months of delays (54.7%). The main reason for fertility postponement was travel restrictions due to COVID-19 for cross-border patients (62.5%), while national patients cited additional reasons. The majority of patients experienced a degree of stress (65.2%) due to the delays, however were not fearful of COVID-19 infection (54.7%). Most patients were aware of the protective measures taken by IVF clinics (80.2%), and this was a determinant factor (71.7%) for their decision to restart their fertility treatment.

Conclusion:

The COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns had a significant emotional impact on patient receiving or undergoing ART treatment in Greece. This impact was more pronounced on cross-border patients. This highlights the need for continuation of ART care, with the appropriate protective measures, during the pandemic, as well as during similar times of crisis in the future.
Factors Influencing the Pregnancy Outcome of Intrauterine Insemination and Follow-Up Treatment
Authors: Huang Xuan , Sun Qin , Tang Xu , Li Meiling , Zhou Cheng , Cheng Xi , Yao Bing , Chen Li
Published: April 2023

Background:

Many factors were reported associated with the pregnancy rate of intrauterine insemination (IUI), which played key role is still debated.

Aims:

The aim of this study was to explore related clinical pregnancy outcome factor in IUI cycles of non-male factor.

Settings and Design:

The clinical data of 1232 IUI cycles in 690 couples experiencing infertility who attended the Reproductive Center of Jinling Hospital between July 2015 and November 2021 were retrospectively analysed.

Materials and Methods:

Female and male age, body mass index (BMI), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), male semen parameters before and after wash, endometrial thickness (EMT), artificial insemination timing and ovarian stimulation (OS) protocols were compared between the pregnant group and the non-pregnant group in order to explore any correlation.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Continuous variables were analysed using independent-samples t-test, and Chi-square test was used for comparison of measurement data between the two groups. P <0.05 was considered statistical significance.

Results:

There were statistically significant differences in female AMH, EMT and duration of OS between the two groups. The AMH was higher in the pregnant group than in the non-pregnant group (P < 0.01), the stimulated days was significantly longer (P < 0.05) and EMT was significantly greater (P < 0.01) in the pregnant group than in the non-pregnant group. Further analysis showed that when patients with IUI had the following conditions: AMH > 4.5 ng/ml, EMT between 8 and 12 mm and letrozole + human menopausal gonadotropin stimulation with higher clinical pregnancy. However, there were no differences between the pregnant group and the non-pregnant group amongst the female and male age, BMI, hormones on baseline and day of human chorionic gonadotrophin, number of ovulated oocytes, sperm parameters before and after wash, treatment protocols and the timing of IUI (P > 0.05). Furthermore, there were 240 couples who not pregnant received one or more cycles of in vitro fertilisation/intracytoplasmic sperm injection/ pre-implantation genetic technology treatment, and another 182 couples forgo follow-up treatment.

Conclusion:

The results of the present study demonstrate that the clinical IUI pregnancy rate is correlated with the factors of female AMH, EMT and OS protocol; more studies and samples are necessary to evaluate whether other factors affect pregnancy rate.
Male Idiopathic Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism
Authors: Salehisedeh Nastaran , Parhizkar Amir , Yaghmaei Parichehreh , Sabbaghian Marjan
Published: April 2023

Background:

Idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) is a form of male infertility caused by a congenital defect in the secretion or action of gonadotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus. Oestradiol emerged as the main sex steroid in the regulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–testicular axis, reproductive function and growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor-1 (GH/IGF-1) axis in men. Moreover, GH/IGF-1 axis has been suggested to play a role in IHH.

Aims:

This study evaluated serum IGF-1 in IHH men and controls. Furthermore, we evaluated the association between serum total oestradiol (TE2) and IGF-1 levels in patients and controls. Parameters including age, body mass index and fertility history were analysed.

Settings and Design:

This prospective study was conducted at the Royan institute.

Materials and Methods:

In 20 men with IHH and 20 controls, serum IGF-1 levels were estimated using chemiluminescence immunoassay and serum E2 levels were assessed by means of the electrochemiluminescence method.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Kolmogorov-Smirnov test, parametric t-test or the Mann-Whitney and the Pearson correlation coefficient were performed. SPSS version 22 was used for the analysis of data.

Results:

There was a significant decrease in serum IGF-1 levels in IHH patients compared with controls (145.1 ± 8.9 ng/ml vs. 229.6 ± 7.3 ng/ml P < 0.001, respectively). Furthermore, a significant decrease was observed in TE2 levels in IHH male patients (12.3 ± 2.5 pg/ml) compared with controls (31.9 ± 5.3 pg/ml P < 0.001). A positive correlation was observed between serum IGF-1 and TE2 levels in the total number of participants, suggesting that E2 deficiency in IHH cases can explain the lower levels of serum IGF-1.

Conclusions:

These findings suggest that the reduction in IGF-1 levels may be associated with the influence of E2 on the GH/IGF-1 axis, and may confirm the role of the GH/IGF-1 axis in IHH. Further investigations will be required to determine the exact mechanisms by which E2 and IGF-1 affect the reproductive neuroendocrine function.
Assessment of the Impact Induced by Different Incubation Time, Storage Time, Storage Medium and Thawing Methods on Sperm DNA Fragmentation Assay
Authors: Sabbaghian Marjan , Hosseinifar Hani , Rafaee Alemeh , Gilani Mohammad Ali Sadighi
Published: April 2023

Background:

The sperm DNA fragmentation has been considered an important index in the field of male infertility.

Aims:

Our study aims to evaluate the impact of different factors, including incubation time, storage time, storage medium and method of thawing, on DNA fragmentation of semen samples.

Settings and Design:

This study was designed as a before–after study in five experiments.

Materials and Methods:

Experiment 1 was conducted to assess the effect of storage time in liquid nitrogen on 15 semen samples. In experiment 2, DNA fragmentation was performed on 10 semen samples with different incubation times before freezing. In experiments 3, 4, two different storage media and thawing methods were applied respectively in two separate groups, each containing 30 samples and the DNA fragmentation index (DFI) was measured using the sperm chromatin structure assay method.

Statistical Analysis:

Data were analysed using Stata version 11.

Results:

There was a significant increase in sperm DNA fragmentation of samples stored in liquid nitrogen for 1 month. This increase occurred in the first 2 weeks. Furthermore, our results showed a significant increase in the DFI after 120 min of incubation at room temperature (RT) and also thawing in RT separately.

Conclusion:

It is better to use fresh samples to measure DNA fragmentation up to 2 h after ejaculation to achieve more accurate results. Furthermore, if sperm freezing is inevitable, the use of a water bath (37°C) to thaw will be the most appropriate option, as it can lead to less DNA damage.
Does Testicular Sperm Alter Reproductive and Perinatal Outcomes in Assisted Reproductive Technology Cycles? 10 Years' Experience in an Indian Clinic
Authors: Mantravadi Krishna Chaitanya , Rao Durga Gedela , Sree Y. Rupa
Published: April 2023

Background:

Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) has revolutionized the reproductive outcomes for couples with male factor infertility. Especially in azoospermic men, use of ICSI with surgically retrieved testicular sperm has helped them have their own biological child. However, considering the immature nature of testicular sperm safety of testicular sperm has been debated.

Aims:

To compare reproductive outcomes, neonatal outcomes and the incidence of congenital malformations in children born after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), using different sperm origins.

Settings and Design:

This is a retrospective study in which a total of 989 participants were enrolled. Study group (Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA) ICSI group) had 552 couples with female partners aged ≤37 and had self gamete cycles. ICSI cycles with ejaculated sperm (EJS) acted as the control group.

Materials and Methods:

All male patients underwent surgical sperm retrieval and all the women underwent controlled ovarian stimulation and transvaginal oocyte retrieval and Ovum Pick Up (OPU) as per the standard operating procedures of the clinic. Frozen embryo transfer with two good-grade blastocysts, which had shown 100% survival, were transferred in subsequent cycles.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The Student's t-test was performed for age distribution; odds ratio was performed to find the confounding factors.

Results:

Embryonic and reproductive outcomes were comparable and not statistically significant in the study and control groups. Incidence of congenital anomalies was observed in singleton live births and twin live births in both the TESA-ICSI group and the EJS-ICSI group, but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

Our study revealed that congenital malformations in children born out of ICSI using testicular sperm and EJS were similar; no difference was observed in miscarriages between the testicular sperm-ICSI and EJS-ICSI group. Our data suggests that surgical sperm retrieval in couples with male factor infertility does not alter their reproductive outcome.
Premature Progesterone Elevation in in vitro Fertilisation Cycles – Current Perspectives
Authors: Gurunath Sumana
Published: April 2023

The impact of premature elevation of progesterone (PPE) on the day of the trigger on pregnancy outcome in in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycles has been a matter of contention and debate for decades. Research over the last 30 years has indicated that PPE >1.5 ng/ml is associated with declining live birth rates following fresh embryo transfer. Freeze-only approach has become a universal solution to overcome the issue of PPE. However, the topic is still mired with controversy. Few studies have not shown a negative impact on pregnancy rates. The impact of PPE on embryological parameters such as oocyte and embryo quality and ploidy is still very controversial. An important contentious issue is the choice of the threshold P value above which it is considered abnormal and a freeze-all strategy would be cost-effective. Currently, though a cutoff of >1.5 ng/ml is widely used, practices are not uniform and varying thresholds from 0.4 to 3 ng/ml are utilised. This review addresses the current understanding of PPE in IVF and the above controversies. The incidence, aetiology and source of progesterone rise, impact on endometrial receptivity, oocyte and embryo quality, impact on live birth and cumulative live birth and impact on frozen embryo transfer and donor oocyte cycles are discussed. Current controversies regarding the optimal threshold, assay performance and future directions are addressed.
Preoperative Predictors for the Presence of Motile Spermatozoa in the Epididymis and Patency of Anastomosis During Microsurgical Vasoepididymal Anastomosis in Patients with Obstructive Azoospermia
Authors: Kadian Bhopesh , Sharma Aditya Prakash , Rohilla Manish , Gorsi Ujjwal , Kaur Japleen , Mavuduru Ravimohan S.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Following microsurgical vaso-epididymal anastomosis (VEA), anastomotic patency with sperm returning to the ejaculate is not always present and may even be delayed. The presence of motile spermatozoa is highly suggestive of future patency following surgery.

Aims:

We prospectively analyse the factors that could predict motile spermatozoa at the epididymis intraoperatively and predictors of patency in patients with obstructive azoospermia (OA) undergoing microsurgical VEA.

Settings and Design:

Department of Urology of a tertiary care centre in Northern India. It is a prospective observational study.

Materials and Methods:

Over a 2-year period (July 2019 to June 2021), 26 patients with idiopathic OA were enrolled in the study. Twenty patients underwent microsurgical VEA. Patients were divided into two groups based on the presence/absence of intraoperative motile spermatozoa.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Analysis of preoperative and intraoperative factors was done using the Mann–Whitney U-test, Chi-squared test and Fischer exact test.

Results:

Out of 20 patients, 5 (group 2) had intraoperative motile spermatozoa in the epididymal fluid and 15 (group 1) had nonmotile spermatozoa. Low luteinising hormone (LH) levels (P = 0.01) and high testosterone levels (P = 0.05) were the predictive of presence of motile spermatozoa in epididymal fluid. Mean follow-up was 9 months (6–18 months). Predictors of higher patency were grade 2 epididymis (firm, turgid and tense) (P = 0.003), low LH levels (P = 0.03), low sertoli cell index (P = 0.006), high sperm-Sertoli index (P = 0.002) and better surgeon satisfaction (P = 0.01).

Conclusion:

Low LH levels and high testosterone levels may be predictive of the presence of motile spermatozoa in epididymal fluid. Firm, turgid and tense epididymis, low Sertoli cell index, high sperm-Sertoli index and surgeon satisfaction suggest a greater chance of success after VEA for idiopathic azoospermia.
Phytochemical analysis of chitraka granthikadi kashaya—an ayurvedic polyherbal formulation
Authors: Dhanya P. R. , Sajjanar Neelakanta J. , Gopalakrishna G.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Chromatographic fingerprinting of herbal formulations is a useful tool for explaining the scientific background and to develop a more targeted treatment methodology. Thus, this study has undertaken to report the characteristic parameters of chitraka granthikadi kashaya an ayurvedic polyherbal formulation to validate its quality.

Materials and Methods:

The root of Shodhita (purified) Chitraka (Plumbago zeylanica L.) and Eranda (Ricinus communis L.), dried rhizome of Shunti (Zingiber officinale Roscoe.), fruit of Pippali (Piper longum L.), and Saindhava lavana (Rock salt) were the ingredients of chitraka granthikadi kashaya. The Kwatha (medicated decoction) was prepared and evaluated for its phytochemical parameters and thin layer chromatography, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry chromatography parameters in accordance with the standard methods.

Results:

The phytochemical screening, GC–MS study, and TLC of the formulation reported the presence of 13 potential bioactive compounds. The action of these compounds based on the available literature has given a close similarity with the therapeutic action of the formulation.

Conclusion:

The presence of 13 bioactive compounds was found in this formulation with different peak values. Major compounds present are piperine, B-sitosterol, geranyl isovalarate, hexacosane, etc. Few compounds were very minimal and even no sufficient literature data available for them.
Recent advances in diagnosis and management of ischemic heart diseases in perspective of contemporary and Ayurveda medicine—a comprehensive review
Authors: Joglekar Aishwarya Ashish , Vyas Mahesh K. , Bhojani Meera K.
Published: April 2023

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) or commonly known as coronary heart disease is considered as of the important cause of morbidity and mortality across the globe. This condition affects both the structure and function of heart muscle. Its prevalence should be considered since the advent of human life as even classical texts of Ayurveda have given ample emphasis on physiology and pathology of Hridroga (heart diseases). This is thus a topic of interest for the cardiologists, Ayurveda physicians, and general physicians. In order to cope with the transformations in the field of medicine, especially critical care, one must be well versed with the recent advances especially concerning this critical field of cardiology. The available classical literature regarding Hridroga and contemporary literature pertaining to IHD is reviewed in the present study with the help of robust search of different databases, published scientific works to present solid knowledge foundation for effective diagnosis, management, and research opportunities concerning filed of cardiology. The advances concerning the different clinical and preclinical trials on interventional drugs in treatment of IHD along with the different observational and exploratory studies done to understand the pathophysiology of Hridroga are highlighted in this article. Encouraging findings were achieved by the means of a thorough review put forth in the article which elaborates to highlight the recent advances in the research, diagnosis, management, and prevention of IHD in terms of both Ayurvedic and contemporary approaches.
Yogic breathing and meditation techniques on lung functions in healthy individuals
Authors: Aruchunan Mooventhan , Nivethitha L.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Yogic breathing (i.e., pranayama) and meditation techniques (YBMT) are the most important parts of yoga. Regular practice of yoga has shown to improve pulmonary functions in healthy as well as in people with pulmonary diseases. However, studies on effectiveness of YBMT alone on lung function are lacking.

Aims:

To evaluate the short-term effect of YBMT on peak expiratory flow rate in healthy individuals.

Settings and Design:

A pilot randomized controlled study was done in a medical college hospital located in South India.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty healthy individuals were randomly allocated to either a study group or a control group. Study group practiced YBMT for 10 min/day for 2 weeks, while the control group was under their normal routine. Peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) was assessed before and after 2 weeks of intervention.

Statistical Analysis:

Independent t test and paired t test were conducted to compare the means of inter groups and intra-groups using SPSS, version 16.

Results:

A significant increase in PEFR was observed in the study group (P < 0.001), unlike the control group (P = 0.588). Moreover, a significant increase in PEFR was observed in the study group (P = 0.047) compared to the control group.

Conclusion:

Results suggest that YBMT might be useful in improving PEFR in healthy individuals.
Evaluation of efficacy and safety of Amarantha footcare cream in subjects suffering from cracked heels (xerosis of the feet)
Authors: Nipanikar Sanjay U. , Mundhe Narendra B. , Gajare Kamlakar V. , Deshmukh Pranita Joshi
Published: April 2023

Xerosis of the foot can lead to cracks in plantar surface with discomfort, pain, and predisposition to infection. This study was conducted to evaluate the comparative efficacy and safety of Amarantha footcare cream (AFC) in subjects suffering from cracked heels (xerosis of feet). A total of 79 subjects (26 in AFC group, 26 in marketed cracked heal cream [MCHC] group, and 27 in Amarantha wound healing cream [AWHC] group) were completed the study. All trial subjects were advised to apply sufficient quantity of given creams, twice daily for 28 days or till complete clearance of the cracked heel, whichever was earlier. Study subjects were called for follow-up visits on days 7, 14, 21, and 28. Clinical trial registry of India registration number is CTRI/2020/11/028829. The mean days required for complete healing of cracked heel were 16.69, 22.96, and 25.74 in AFC, MCHC, and AWHC groups respectively. The mean xerosis score was significantly reduced (P < 0.01) in AFC group than other groups from baseline to end of study. Overall clinical cutaneous score was significantly (p < 0.01) reduced in AFC group as compared to other two groups on day 7, 14 and 21. AFC group showed overall very much improvement than other two groups at the end of the study. Few adverse events were reported; however, none was related to study drugs. AFC is safe and effective for the treatment of cracked heels (planter xerosis).
Supporting Caregivers of The Aging Adult: A Program Evaluation
Authors:   , O'Brien Tanya
Published: April 2023

There is an ever-increasing burden on caregivers of individuals with cognitive illness as a result of the increasing number of older adults with dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Currently, St. John's County Florida offers three programs designed to provide support for caregivers of individuals with cognitive illness. This project evaluated the three programs as part of a program evaluation to determine the efficacy of program selection for sustainability. Utilizing the Center for Disease Control's (CDC) Program Evaluation Framework (PEF), a detailed and thorough evaluation review of the Power Tools for Caregivers, Savvy Caregiver, and an original three-model program developed by the Council on Aging (COA) was conducted. The three programs currently in use were found to meet the requirements of a successful program per the CDC Program Evaluation Framework, and therefore, were recommended for continued use in assisting caregivers of individuals with cognitive illness.
Implementation of Purposeful Hourly Rounding to Decrease Fall Rates
Authors:   , Kizy Danette
Published: April 2023

Practice Problem: Patient falls can lead to an increased length of stay and potentially reduce the quality of life. In addition to serious injury, the patient and the hospital have a significant financial burden. PICOT: On a medical-surgical unit, does incorporating purposeful hourly rounding in the patient care routine compared to no purposeful rounding decrease patient fall rates over eight weeks? Evidence: Of the 35 articles related to fall prevention and PHR, a final selection of eight articles met the criteria and were of high quality and evidence levels. Intervention: PHR was implemented to decrease falls over a period of eight weeks. Fall rates were then calculated and compared with the previous eight weeks. Outcome: The calculated fall rate for the baseline phase was 3.64 falls per 1000 patient bed days. The calculated fall rate for the implementation phase was 2.1 falls per 1000 patient bed days. The incidence of the fall rate between baseline and implementation was (M=1.95, SD=.07) and implementation phase (M=2.05, SD=.21); t= -.50, p=0.70. Conclusion: The results of this EBP project did not indicate statistical significance. However, clinical significance was identified through improved clinical practice of the unit staff.
Hawkins' Way: Rembembering Astronomer Gerald S. Hawkins
Authors: Allen, Jr. Hubert A.
Published: April 2023

Gerald Hawkins, who rose to fame in the 1960s as the author of Stonehenge Decoded, was due to have been a keynote speaker at the INSAP IV conference. As preparations were being made for the conference, the sad news was received that he had passed away, on his farm in Virginia. Stonehenge Decoded and other publications played a seminal role in defining the study of prehistoric astronomy and bringing that study to wider critical attention. He was fortunate to have lived long enough to see others take up the challenge of decoding human intellect embedded in ancient architecture. He was particularly interested in proposals for English Heritage's plans for a new Stonehenge Visitor Centre. The following tribute was prepared by his friend and colleague, Hubert A. Allen.
Star Imagery in Petroglyph National Monument
Authors: Allen, Jr. Hubert A. , Ballone Terry Edward
Published: April 2023

Petroglyph National Monument, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA, is dedicated solely to preserving an estimated 17,000 carvings on rock (petroglyphs) made by ancestral and historic Native Americans, early colonists and regional visitors. Among the images that recur along the 17 miles of volcanic escarpment is a four-pointed star, sometimes called the ‘star-being’ or ‘star-head’ by locals and park guides, as it usually involves some degree of anthropomorphism. This image may be as simple as a circle with four symmetrically disposed points and no other details to as elaborate as the basic star-head with facial features, crown and body with, perhaps, limbs holding objects – a cane, staff, or club. This project involved a photographic field survey of the ‘star-head’ image in the Monument. Two teams of two and three surveyors combed the escarpment rock (height ranging from 10m - 100m high) and identified and photographed approximately 100 ‘star-head’ images. Results include a classification of ‘star-head’ images according to level of detail, size of images, and associations with other petroglyphs and archaeological remains. The literature review discusses the possible role of this icon as a war symbol and a Venus deity and provides a rough time line of their creation and cultural associations.
Astronomy and the Magic Lantern
Authors: Butterworth Mark
Published: April 2023

The nineteenth century saw the introduction of the term ‘populariser of science’. The development of this phrase coincided with the increasing use of the magic lantern to illustrate science lectures and astronomy was one of the first disciplines to see its widespread application. The magic lantern was invented in the sixteenth century and spread throughout Europe as a form of home or family entertainment. Examples from the eighteenth century still exist of lantern slides showing astronomical subjects. The invention of limelight illumination in the early nineteenth century resulted in the widespread use of the lantern for public lectures and, again, astronomy was one of the first and most popular subjects. Slides were produced in a wide variety of formats and showed both simple and complex astronomical concepts and phenomena. By the end of the nineteenth century astronomical lectures were seen every year by thousands of members of the general public. With the invention of the moving image and the increasing complexity of astronomy as a science, magic lantern lectures declined in popularity and by the 1930s were only generally given in academic institutions.
Sun, Moon and Stars on Kievan Rus Jewellery (10th - 13th Centuries)
Authors: Caudano Ann Laurence
Published: April 2023

The principalities of Kievan Rus, a state formed by the area that covered the Western Bug to the Volga between the tenth and thirteenth centuries, legated numerous earrings and medals shaped as a sun, a star, or a moon crescent, probably a reminiscence of Slavic paganism. Unfortunately this abundant material has not been satisfactorily analysed in studies of the Rus cosmological worldview, even though the information provided by these jewels is essential to complement the documents alluding to the heavens. Indeed, the Slavonic translations of Byzantine patristic texts with cosmological contents, or descriptions of astronomical phenomena in chronicles, deal only with a more restricted – literate – audience in Rus. Furthermore, on the basis of such written sources, one would easily conclude that the Rus showed but very little interest in the stars: it did not produce any original speculation on the heavens, and most of its material was copied or imitated from Byzantine models. The study of jewels indicates that, on the contrary, the sky and its celestial bodies fascinated a broad range of the Rus population. Despite the limited interpretations one can offer to these sources, which do not provide a coherent picture of the cosmos, the frequent solar, lunar and stellar motifs on jewellery reveals a representation of heavens specific to the Kievan period. Indeed, they appeared in the region in the late eighth and early nineth centuries and disappeared almost completely in the thirteenth century, after the Mongol invasions. My presentation focuses on two aspects of this material: the origin of these jewels and their role in Rus society. In fact, if these motifs seem to be typical of the Rus, comparable designs were found also in Byzantium and among Finno-Ugric tribes. It is thus essential to determine in what measure these neighbouring states and tribes influenced Rus crafts. More puzzling is the sudden end to their production in the thirteenth century, which could be explained by political and economic factors, or its coincidence with a stronger implantation of the Christian faith in the Rus. This, as such, would reveal radical changes in the consideration of heavens at that period.
The Sun is God
Authors: Campion Nicholas
Published: April 2023

The belief that precession of the equinoxes – the slow shift of the stars against the sun's position at the vernal equinox – was well known in ancient times is a staple of modern 'alternative' archaeology. It underpins Norman Lockyer's early archaeoastronomy in the 1890s and 1910s, C. G. Jung's theories on early Christianity in the 1950s, Georgio di Santillana and Hertha von Deschend's ‘Hamlet’s Mill’ the 1960s, and best sellers by Graham Hancock and Robert Bauval in the 1990s. However, the idea can be traced back to radical antiChristian Enlightenment thinkers at the end of the eighteenth century, such as Jean Sylvain Bailly (1736–1793), who expounded his arguments on the astronomical origin of religious forms in two major works, ‘Histoire de l’astronomie ancienne’ (1775) and ‘Traité de l’astronomie indienne et orientale’ (1787). Charles François Dupuis extended the debate in 1781 in his ‘Mémoire sur l’origine des constellations, et sur l’explication de la fable par le moyen de l’astronomie’ (1742–1809) by attempting to establish the astronomical origins of mythology, while setting out a detailed argument that the twelve signs of the zodiac originated as an allegory of the seasonal cycle. The radicals' purpose was to undermine Christianity's claim to unique truth by demonstrating that it shared a common origin with all other religions, that the first religion was sun worship, that all gods, including Christ, were essentially solar, and that the changing forms of deities and religious ritual could be observed in the shift of constellations in relation to the vernal equinox. However, what was, to anti-clericalist free thinkers, a means of demonstrating religion's essential meaninglessness became, in the hands of the Romantics, a way of demonstrating that all religions were meaningful. Moved by such feelings, together with the belief that all religions shared a solar origin, the English painter Turner is reputed to have uttered the words 'the Sun is God' on his deathbed. Two hundred years later, the belief in the ancient knowledge of precession is still capable of exciting great passion.
The Sun is God
Authors: Campion Nicholas
Published: April 2023

The belief that precession of the equinoxes – the slow shift of the stars against the sun's position at the vernal equinox – was well known in ancient times is a staple of modern 'alternative' archaeology. It underpins Norman Lockyer's early archaeoastronomy in the 1890s and 1910s, C. G. Jung's theories on early Christianity in the 1950s, Georgio di Santillana and Hertha von Deschend's Hamlet's Mill in the 1960s, and best sellers by Graham Hancock and Robert Bauval in the 1990s. However, the idea can be traced back to radical antiChristian Enlightenment thinkers at the end of the eighteenth century, such as Jean Sylvain Bailly (1736–1793), who expounded his arguments on the astronomical origin of religious forms in two major works, Histoire de l'astronomie ancienne (1775) and Traite de l'astronomie indienne el orientals (1787). Charles François Dupuis (1742–1809) extended the debate in 1781 in his Mémoire sur l'origine des constellations, et sur l'explication de la fable, by attempting to establish the astronomical origins of mythology, while setting out a detailed argument that the twelve signs of the zodiac originated as an allegory of the seasonal cycle. The radicals' purpose was to undermine Christianity's claim to unique truth by demonstrating that it shared a common origin with all other religions, that the first religion was sun worship, that all gods, including Christ, were essentially solar, and that the changing forms of deities and religious ritual could be observed in the shift of constellations in relation to the vernal equinox. However, what was to anti-clericalist free thinkers a means of demonstrating religion's essential meaninglessness became, in the hands of the Romantics, a way of demonstrating that all religions were meaningful. Moved by such feelings, together with the belief that all religions shared a solar origin, the English painter Turner is reputed to have uttered the words 'the Sun is God' on his deathbed. Two hundred years later the belief in the ancient knowledge of precession is still capable of exciting great passion.
Cosmic Gardens
Authors: Chapman-Rietschi Anne
Published: April 2023

The article presents different gardens featuring cosmic principles or motifs. Among the examples: the first garden mentioned by the Sumerians; the Biblical Garden of Eden; the astral-related gardens of the Ancient Egyptians; Plato’s garden in Athens; and Tycho Brahe’s ‘Uraniborg on Hven’. The motifs usually focus on planetary spheres and star-shaped designs. Allegorically, these, as well as other thematic astral elements of gardens, enabled the elite to ponder astral and religioud mysteries.
Desire, Heavenly Bodies, and a Surrealist's Fascination with the Celestial Theatre
Authors: Hatch John G.
Published: April 2023

In 1922, the German Surrealist artist Max Ernst produced a montage work that included a woman's bare buttocks protruding out of the rings of Saturn. It is, to say the least, an unusual combination of images, but one that addresses some very basic human impulses. Largely, it expresses Ernst's understanding that inscribed upon the night sky are some of our deepest held fears and fantasies. Ernst sought to generate contemporary re-phrasings of our mythologizing of the cosmos in a complex and often enigmatic way, drawing on such varied sources as Freudian psychology, late nineteenth-century symbolism, alchemy, and Surrealism. Ultimately, Ernst manages to weave an intricate, cryptically autobiographical narrative through such astronomical bodies and groups of stars as Saturn, the Pleiades, Praesepe, and Cygnus, to name but a few. This paper navigates some of the celestial imagery found in the work of Ernst between 1919 and 1934 in the hopes of demonstrating, in its own small way, just how rich a source astronomy has been for modern and contemporary art.
Bertrand Russell in Blue Spectacles: His Fascination with Astronomy
Authors: Henry Holly
Published: April 2023

Bertrand Russell frequently formulated his epistemological investigations of the material world with examples drawn from astronomical phenomena. He persistently evoked images of stars and starlight, the planets, the sun, eclipses, even planetariums, to stage his arguments. This is true for early publications such as ‘Our Knowledge of the External World’ (1914) and ‘The Analysis of Mind’ (1921), as well as later works such as ‘An Outline of Philosophy’ (1927), and ‘Human Knowledge’ (1948). Russell was clearly fascinated by astronomy and cosmological phenomena. He notes that his interest in astronomy was inspired by his uncle, Rollo Russell, who lived in Bertrand’s childhood home, and whose conversations with Bertrand ‘did a great deal to stimulate [his] scientific interests’. The Honourable Rollo Russell ‘was a meteorologist, and did valuable investigations of the effects of the Krakatoa eruption of 1883, which produced in England strange sunsets and even a blue moon’. At a very young age, Bertrand knew something of the planets. He noted that, at about age five or six, he would wake early in the morning to watch Venus rise: ‘On one occasion I mistook the planet for a lantern in the wood’. ‘The world of astronomy,’ Russell later observed, ‘dominates my imagination and I am very conscious of the minuteness of our planet in comparison with the systems of galaxies’. Russell also once noted, ‘I have always ardently desired to find some justification for the emotions inspired by certain things that seemed to stand outside human life and to deserve feelings of awe…the starry heavens…the vastness of the scientific universe…’. This fascination with the stellar universe would be productive for Russell’s philosophical inquiries into the nature, and multiplicity, of physical phenomena. This paper will explore the importance of Russell’s analogies of astronomy for British literary writers such as Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West. The paper will offer a reading of two fiction selections, ‘Solid Objects’ by Woolf and ‘Seducers in Ecuador’ by Sackville-West, against the backdrop of Russell’s fascination with astronomy.
Astronomy and the Sacred Landscape in Irish Myth
Authors: Hicks Ronald
Published: April 2023

The abundant tales from Irish myth recorded in manuscripts dating from the seventh century onward make frequent references to the calendrical festivals that mark the changing of the seasons in the ancient agricultural cycle. They also feature a number of gods whose characteristics suggest they are associated with the sky, particularly the sun and moon. And there are references to days on which the sun is stopped in the sky or that last far beyond the usual limits. By themselves, these references only suggest a concern with astronomy. However, the tales also detail a sacred landscape, telling where the gods live and describing their adventures and journeys. When the sites mentioned are identified and their relationships examined in conjunction with their role in the stories, it becomes apparent that the sacred landscape reflects the astronomical concerns the stories imply. Interestingly, a number of the sites mentioned, some dating to the Neolithic, are far older than the stories, also suggesting a continuity of astronomical knowledge and belief over a period of at least three thousand years. This paper will present several examples illustrating these relationships of astronomy, myth, and the landscape and describing the roles these play in the belief system and early Irish culture.