bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new combination and synonym in Bupleurum (Apiaceae, Apioideae), based on morphological, molecular and cytological evidence
Authors: Wang Li-Hua , Li Shuo , Zhang De-Ning , Liu Quan-Ru
Published: March 2024

Specimen examinations and field observations revealed that Bupleurum smithii var. parvifolium was distinctly different from B. smithii var. smithii in umbel, leaf, and fruit morphology, but was very similar to B. commelynoideum var. flaviflorum. Based on these morphological evidences, the present study re-examined the taxonomic status of these taxa through morphological, cytological, and phylogenetic analyses. The results showed distinguishable features in the width of middle leaves and bracteoles of B. smithii var. parvifolium compared to B. smithii var. smithii. Morphological variation between B. smithii var. parvifolium and B. commelynoideum var. flaviflorum was continuous and overlapping. Notably, the chromosome number of B. smithii var. parvifolium was 2n = 14 (x = 7), consistent with B. commelynoideum var. flaviflorum, whereas B. smithii var. smithii was 2n = 64 (x = 8). Additionally, phylogenetic analyses revealed B. commelynoideum var. flaviflorum nested within B. smithii var. parvifolium, and that both were distant from the B. smithii var. smithii and B. commelynoideum var. commelynoideum. Based on the evidence above, the differences between B. smithii var. parvifolium and B. smithii var. smithii extend beyond the level of intraspecific variation, and B. commelynoideum var. flaviflorum is considered to be identical with B. smithii var. parvifolium. Hence. A new combination and status, B. parvifolium (Shan & Y.Li) Q.R.Liu & L.H.Wang, comb. et stat. nov., is proposed. Furthermore, B. commelynoideum var. flaviflorum should be treated as a synonym of B. parvifolium.
Soft rough fuzzy sets based on covering
Authors: Mareay R. , Abu-Gdairi Radwan , Badr M.
Published: March 2024

Soft rough fuzzy sets ($ \mathcal SRFSs $) represent a powerful paradigm that integrates soft computing, rough set theory, and fuzzy logic. This research aimed to comprehensively investigate the various dimensions of $ \mathcal SRFSs $ within the domain of approximation structures. The study encompassed a wide spectrum of concepts, ranging from covering approximation structures and soft rough coverings to soft neighborhoods, fuzzy covering approximation operators, and soft fuzzy covering approximation operators. We introduced three models of $ \mathcal SRFSs $ based on covering via the core of soft neighborhood. We discussed and analyzed our models' characteristics and properties. The relations between our models for soft fuzzy covering sets and Zhan's model for soft rough fuzzy covering were presented.
Inverse problem of determining diffusion matrix between different structures for time fractional diffusion equation
Authors: Peng Feiyang , Tang Yanbin
Published: March 2024

In this paper we consider some inverse problems of determining the diffusion matrix between different structures for the time fractional diffusion equation featuring a Caputo derivative. We first study an inverse problem of determining the diffusion matrix in the period structure using data from the corresponding homogenized equation, then we investigate an inverse problem of determining the diffusion matrix in the homogenized equation using data from the corresponding period structure of the oscillating equation. Finally, we establish the stability and uniqueness for the first inverse problem, and the asymptotic stability for the second inverse problem.
The African Conception of Death: A Cultural Implication
Authors: Baloyi Lesiba , Makobe-Rabothata Molebogeng
Published: March 2024

From an African perspective death is a natural transition from the visible to the invisible spiritual ontology where the spirit, the essence of the person, is not destroyed but moves to live in the spirit ancestors’ realm dead. It signifies an inextricable spiritual connection between the visible and invisible worlds. This chapter focuses on how traditional Africans conceive and deal with the bereavement process. We adopt the African worldview and philosophy as our framework. We dispute the often held view in mainstream psychology that behavior, in this case the concept of death and the bereavement processes have universal applicability, articulation, representation and meaning. For Africans, death is accompanied by a series of the performance of rituals which connect the living dead and the living. Two case studies are presented and discussed to illustrate the African conception of death, its meaning, significance and accompanying mourning rituals and process. We approach the participants’ stories from a qualitative narrative inquiry viewpoint as our methodology. The experiences in the participants’ stories in the workplace reveal that African indigenous ways of dealing with death are still not recognized, respected and understood in organizations which have a dominant Western culture.
Could the Profile of Orphans Represent the Javanese Position in the Indulgence Versus Restraint Culture Dimension?
Authors: Risnawaty Widya , Tiatri Sri , Jap Tjibeng , Monika Sesilia
Published: March 2024

Javanese culture (one of the cultural groups in Indonesia) emphasizes the importance of social norms and social consequences as a control to social behavior. The aim of this research is to study the dimension of restraint in the behavior and psychological dynamics of Javanese late adolescents, who live at two orphanages in Central Java. The participants are 40 male adolescents in the care of two public orphanage houses, with the age range between 12 to 19 years. The method used in data retrieval is qualitative, that is through observation, interviews, and drawing test. The results showed that the behavior and psychological dynamics that occur on the individual self between those two orphanages are quite similar. Participants in both orphanage houses tend to control ways to express their feelings. They also present themselves as calm, tight in norms, and under control. Additionally, showing control of emotions and being not easily surprised is also important. These observations may represent the characteristics of Javanese culture as have been found in previous research, namely, the tendency to be restrained in the Indulgence Versus Restraint dimensions (Hofstede, Hofstede, & Minkov, 2010).
Maternal Expectations of Child Development in Two Cultural Groups in Germany
Authors: Özlem Otyakmaz Berrin
Published: March 2024

Cross-cultural research on developmental expectations has shown that the ages mothers expect children can master developmental skills vary according to their cultural background. This study examined the role of culture on developmental expectations by comparing Turkish-German (n = 107) and German (n = 127) mothers with preschool aged children in terms of their estimations regarding children’s mastery on 8 different developmental domains (e.g., cognitive, physical, social). Results have shown that Turkish-German mothers expected children to attain developmental milestones later than German mothers in nearly all domains. But the differences were not quite to the same extent in all domains. Furthermore Turkish-German mothers who grew up in Germany differed in some domains less from German mothers than mothers who grew up in Turkey. This is seen as an evident that parental ethnotheories are not adopted in a determined and probably already dysfunctional mode for the child’s adaptation to its current environment but that they are reinterpreted by integrating new information and reflecting the demands of the environment in order to allow their children an optimal adaptation to their environment.
Enhancing the clinical value of single-phase computed tomography angiography in the assessment of collateral circulation in acute ischemic stroke: A narrative review
Authors: Yang Yunqiu , Wang Zhen , Hu Qingmao , Liu Libo , Ma Guorui , Yang Chen
Published: March 2024

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) condition assessment and clinical prognosis are significantly influenced by the compensatory state of cerebral collateral circulation. A standard clinical test known as single-phase computed tomography angiography (sCTA) is useful for quickly and accurately assessing the creation or opening of cerebral collateral circulation, which is crucial for the diagnosis and treatment of AIS. To improve the clinical application of sCTA in the clinical assessment of collateral circulation, we examine the present use of sCTA in AIS in this work.
Color-Driven Object Recognition: A Novel Approach Combining Color Detection and Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Nayyer Aadarsh , Kumar Abhinav , Rajput Aayush , Patil Shruti , Kamat Pooja , Wagle Shivali , Choudhury Tanupriya
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION: Object recognition is a crucial task in computer vision, with applications in robotics, autonomous vehicles, and security systems.
OBJECTIVES: The objective of this paper is to propose a novel approach for object recognition by combining color detection and machine learning techniques.
METHODS: The research employs YOLO v3, a state-of-the-art object detection algorithm, and k-means optimized clustering to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of object recognition. RESULTS: The main results obtained in this paper showcase the outperformance of the authors’ approach on a standard object recognition dataset compared to state-of-the-art approaches using only color features. Additionally, the effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated in a real-world scenario of detecting and tracking objects in a video stream.
CONCLUSION: In conclusion, this approach, integrating color and shape features, has the potential to significantly enhance the accuracy and robustness of object recognition systems. This contribution can pave the way for the development of more reliable and efficient object recognition systems across various applications.
Liouville-type theorems for double-phase problems involving the Grushin operator
Authors: Khuat Quang Thanh
Published: March 2024

In this paper, we are concerned with the double-phase problem involving the Grushin operator in the whole space

\mathbb{R}^{N}=\mathbb{R}^{N_1}\times\mathbb{R}^{N_2}

- \operatorname{div}_{G} (|\nabla_{G} u|^{p-2}\nabla_{G} u + w(z) |\nabla_{G} u|^{q-2}\nabla_{G} u) = f(z)|u|^{r-1}u,

where

\nabla_{G}

is the Grushin gradient,

\Delta_{G}

is the Grushin operator,

q\geq p \geq 2

,

r>q-1

and

w, f \in L^{1}_{\mathrm{loc}}(\mathbb{R}^{N})

are two nonnegative functions satisfying some growth conditions at infinity. Our purpose is to establish some Liouville-type theorems for stable weak solutions or for weak solutions which are stable outside a compact set of the equation above.
Alcohol associated liver disease and bariatric surgery: Current perspectives and future directions
Authors: Cooper Katherine M , Colletta Alessandro , Hebda Nicholas , Devuni Deepika
Published: March 2024

Bariatric surgery is a routinely performed procedure and is associated with a reduction in all-cause mortality in patients with obesity. However, bariatric surgery has also been linked to increased alcohol use with up to 30% of these patients developing alcohol use disorder (AUD). The mechanism of AUD after bariatric surgery is multifactorial and includes anatomic, metabolic, and neurohumoral changes associated with post-surgical anatomy. These patients are at increased risk of alcohol associated liver disease and, in some cases, require liver transplantation. In this article, we provide a scoping review of epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical outcomes of alcohol-related health conditions after bariatric surgery.
Evaluation of bacterial contamination and medium-term oncological outcomes of intracorporeal anastomosis for colon cancer: A propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Kayano Hajime , Mamuro Nana , Kamei Yutaro , Ogimi Takashi , Miyakita Hiroshi , Nakagohri Toshio , Koyanagi Kazuo , Mori Masaki , Yamamoto Seiichiro
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Although intracorporeal anastomosis (IA) for colon cancer requires longer operative time than extracorporeal anastomosis (EA), its short-term postoperative results, such as early recovery of bowel movement, have been reported to be equal or better. As IA requires opening the intestinal tract in the abdominal cavity under pneumoperitoneum, there are concerns about intraperitoneal bacterial infection and recurrence of peritoneal dissemination due to the spread of bacteria and tumor cells. However, intraperitoneal bacterial contamination and medium-term oncological outcomes have not been clarified.

AIM

To clarify the effects of bacterial and tumor cell contamination of the intra-abdominal cavity in IA.

METHODS

Of 127 patients who underwent laparoscopic colon resection for colon cancer from April 2015 to December 2020, 75 underwent EA (EA group), and 52 underwent IA (IA group). After propensity score matching, the primary endpoint was 3-year disease-free survival rates, and secondary endpoints were 3-year overall survival rates, type of recurrence, surgical site infection (SSI) incidence, number of days on antibiotics, and postoperative biological responses.

RESULTS

Three-year disease-free survival rates did not significantly differ between the IA and EA groups (87.2% and 82.7%, respectively, P = 0.4473). The 3-year overall survival rates also did not significantly differ between the IA and EA groups (94.7% and 94.7%, respectively; P = 0.9891). There was no difference in the type of recurrence between the two groups. In addition, there were no significant differences in SSI incidence or the number of days on antibiotics; however, postoperative biological responses, such as the white blood cell count (10200 vs 8650/mm3, P = 0.0068), C-reactive protein (6.8 vs 4.5 mg/dL, P = 0.0011), and body temperature (37.7 vs 37.5 °C, P = 0.0079), were significantly higher in the IA group.

CONCLUSION

IA is an anastomotic technique that should be widely performed because its risk of intraperitoneal bacterial contamination and medium-term oncological outcomes are comparable to those of EA.
Clinical observation of extraction-site incisional hernia after laparoscopic colorectal surgery
Authors: Fan Bao-Hang , Zhong Ke-Li , Zhu Li-Jin , Chen Zhao , Li Fang , Wu Wen-Fei
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery increases the risk of incisional hernia (IH) at the tumor extraction site.

AIM

To investigate the incidence of IH at extraction sites following laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery and identify the risk factors for IH incidence.

METHODS

This study retrospectively analyzed the data of 1614 patients who underwent laparoscopic radical colorectal cancer surgery with tumor extraction through the abdominal wall at our center between January 2017 and December 2022. Differences in the incidence of postoperative IH at different extraction sites and the risk factors for IH incidence were investigated.

RESULTS

Among the 1614 patients who underwent laparoscopic radical colorectal cancer surgery, 303 (18.8%), 923 (57.2%), 171 (10.6%), and 217 (13.4%) tumors were extracted through supraumbilical midline, infraumbilical midline, umbilical, and off-midline incisions. Of these, 52 patients developed IH in the abdominal wall, with an incidence of 3.2%. The incidence of postoperative IH was significantly higher in the off-midline incision group (8.8%) than in the middle incision groups [the supraumbilical midline (2.6%), infraumbilical midline (2.2%), and umbilical incision (2.9%) groups] (χ 2 = 24.985; P < 0.05). Univariate analysis showed that IH occurrence was associated with age, obesity, sex, chronic cough, incision infection, and combined diabetes, anemia, and hypoproteinemia (P < 0.05). Similarly, multivariate analysis showed that off-midline incision, age, sex (female), obesity, incision infection, combined chronic cough, and hypoproteinemia were independent risk factors for IH at the site of laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of postoperative IH differs between extraction sites for laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery. The infraumbilical midline incision is associated with a lower hernia rate and is thus a suitable tumor extraction site.
Reinforced tissue matrix to strengthen the abdominal wall following reversal of temporary ostomies or to treat incisional hernias
Authors: Lake Spencer P , Deeken Corey R , Agarwal Amit K
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Abdominal wall deficiencies or weakness are a common complication of temporary ostomies, and incisional hernias frequently develop after colostomy or ileostomy takedown. The use of synthetic meshes to reinforce the abdominal wall has reduced hernia occurrence. Biologic meshes have also been used to enhance healing, particularly in contaminated conditions. Reinforced tissue matrices (RTMs), which include a biologic scaffold of native extracellular matrix and a synthetic component for added strength/durability, are designed to take advantage of aspects of both synthetic and biologic materials. To date, RTMs have not been reported to reinforce the abdominal wall following stoma reversal.

AIM

To evaluate the effectiveness of using an RTM to reinforce the abdominal wall at stoma takedown sites.

METHODS

Twenty-eight patients were selected with a parastomal and/or incisional hernia who had received a temporary ileostomy or colostomy for fecal diversion after rectal cancer treatment or trauma. Following hernia repair and proximal stoma closure, RTM (OviTex® 1S permanent or OviTex® LPR) was placed to reinforce the abdominal wall using a laparoscopic, robotic, or open surgical approach. Post-operative follow-up was performed at 1 month and 1 year. Hernia recurrence was determined by physical examination and, when necessary, via computed tomography scan. Secondary endpoints included length of hospital stay, time to return to work, and hospital readmissions. Evaluated complications of the wound/repair site included presence of surgical site infection, seroma, hematoma, wound dehiscence, or fistula formation.

RESULTS

The observational study cohort included 16 male and 12 female patients with average age of 58.5 years ± 16.3 years and average body mass index of 26.2 kg/m2 ± 4.1 kg/m2. Patients presented with a parastomal hernia (75.0%), incisional hernia (14.3%), or combined parastomal/incisional hernia (10.7%). Using a laparoscopic (53.6%), robotic (35.7%), or open (10.7%) technique, RTMs (OviTex® LPR: 82.1%, OviTex® 1S: 17.9%) were placed using sublay (82.1%) or intraperitoneal onlay (IPOM; 17.9%) mesh positioning. At 1-month and 1-year follow-ups, there were no hernia recurrences (0%). Average hospital stays were 2.1 d ± 1.2 d and return to work occurred at 8.3 post-operative days ± 3.0 post-operative days. Three patients (10.7%) were readmitted before the 1-month follow up due to mesh infection and/or gastrointestinal issues. Fistula and mesh infection were observed in two patients each (7.1%), leading to partial mesh removal in one patient (3.6%). There were no complications between 1 month and 1 year (0%).

CONCLUSION

RTMs were used successfully to treat parastomal and incisional hernias at ileostomy reversal, with no hernia recurrences and favorable outcomes after 1-month and 1-year.
Influence of different magnetic forces on the effect of colonic anastomosis in rats
Authors: Tian Bo-Yan , Zhang Miao-Miao , Ma Jia , Lyu Yi , Yan Xiao-Peng
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Despite much work having been conducted on magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) in the digestive tract, there are no reports on the influence of magnetic force on the anastomosis.

AIM

To investigate the effect of different magnetic force magnets on the MCA of the digestive tract.

METHODS

Two groups of magnets of the same sizes but different magnetic forces were designed and produced. A total of 24 Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned into two groups (powerful magnet group and common magnet group), with 12 rats in each group. Two types of magnets were used to complete the colonic side-to-side anastomosis of the rats. The operation time and magnet discharge time were recorded. The anastomotic specimens were obtained 4 wk after the operation and then the burst pressure and diameter of the anastomosis were measured, and the anastomosis was observed via the naked eye and subjected to histological examination.

RESULTS

The magnetic forces of the powerful and common magnet groups at zero distance were 8.26 N and 4.10 N, respectively. The colonic side-to-side anastomosis was completed in all 24 rats, and the operation success rate and postoperative survival rate were 100%. No significant difference was noted in the operation time between the two groups. The magnet discharge time of the powerful magnet group was slightly longer than that of the common magnet group, but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.513). Furthermore, there was no statistical difference in the burst pressure (P = 0.266) or diameter of magnetic anastomosis (P = 0.095) between the two groups. The gross specimens of the two groups showed good anastomotic healing, and histological observation indicated good mucosal continuity without differences on healing.

CONCLUSION

In the rat colonic side-to-side MCA model, both the powerful magnet with 8.26 N and the common magnet with 4.10 N showed no significant impact on the anastomosis establishment process or its effect.
Clinical efficacy and safety of erlotinib combined with chemotherapy in the treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer: A meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Xiao-Yan , Pan Hong-Nian , Yu Yue
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Advanced pancreatic cancer is resistant to chemotherapeutic drugs, resulting in limited treatment efficacy and poor prognosis. Combined administration of the chemotherapeutic gemcitabine and erlotinib is considered a potential first-line treatment for advanced pancreatic cancer. However, their comparative benefits and potential risks remain unclear.

AIM

To assess the clinical efficacy and safety of erlotinib combined with other chemotherapy regimens for the treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer.

METHODS

Literature on the clinical efficacy and safety of erlotinib combined with chemotherapy for advanced pancreatic cancer was retrieved through an online search. The retrieved literature was subjected to a methodological qualitative assessment and was analyzed using the RevMan 5.3 software. Ten randomized controlled trials involving 2444 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer were included in the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Compared with chemotherapeutic treatment, erlotinib combined with chemotherapy significantly prolonged the progression-free survival time of pancreatic cancer patients [hazard ratio (HR) = 0.78, 95%CI: 0.66–0.92, P = 0.003]. Meanwhile, the overall survival (HR= 0.99, 95%CI: 0.72–1.37, and P = 0.95) and disease control rate (OR = 0.93, 95%CI: 0.45–0.91, P = 0.84) were not significantly favorable. In terms of safety, the erlotinib and chemotherapy combination was associated with a significantly higher risk of diarrhea (OR = 3.59, 95%CI: 1.63–7.90, P < 0.05) and rash (OR = 3.63, 95%CI: 1.64–8.01, P < 0.05) compared with single-agent chemotherapy. Moreover, the risk of vomiting (OR = 1.27, 95%CI: 0.62–2.59, P = 0.51), regurgitation/anorexia (OR = 1.61, 95%CI: 0.25–10.31, P = 0.62), and infection (OR = 0.72, 95%CI: 0.28-1.87, P = 0.50) were not significant in either group.

CONCLUSION

Compared with a single chemotherapeutic modality, erlotinib combined with gemcitabine can prolong progression-free survival in pancreatic cancer, but does not improve survival benefit or disease control rate, and can increase the risk of diarrhea and rash.
Endoscopic ultrasound-guided lauromacrogol injection for treatment of colorectal cavernous hemangioma: Two case reports
Authors: Zhu Hua-Tuo , Chen Wen-Guo , Wang Jing-Jie , Guo Jia-Nan , Zhang Fen-Ming , Xu Guo-Qiang , Chen Hong-Tan
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Colorectal cavernous hemangioma is a rare vascular malformation resulting in recurrent lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage, and can be misinterpreted as colitis. Surgical resection is currently the mainstay of treatment, with an emphasis on sphincter preservation.

CASE SUMMARY

We present details of two young patients with a history of persistent hematochezia diagnosed with colorectal cavernous hemangioma by endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). Cavernous hemangioma was relieved by several EUS-guided lauromacrogol injections and the patients achieved favorable clinical prognosis.

CONCLUSION

Multiple sequential EUS-guided injections of lauromacrogol is a safe, effective, cost-efficient, and minimally invasive alternative for colorectal cavernous hemangioma.
Artificial Neural Network-Based Tool Wear Prediction in Turning AISI 1040 Medium Carbon Steel Blanks
Authors: Ntukidem B. I. , Achebo J. I. , Ozigagun A. , Uwoghiren F. O. , Obahiagbon K. O.
Published: March 2024

The objective of this paper was to investigate the Cutting Speed, Feed Rate and Depth of Cut to predict Tool wear during Turning of AISI 1040 Medium Carbon Steel Blanks using Artificial Neural Network Approach. The significance of the cutting parameters was investigated using the Analysis of Variance and results revealed the feed rate as the most influential factor, followed by the interaction of cutting speed and depth of cut. The Artificial Neural Network model exhibited notable correlation coefficients (R) in training (0.81301), validation (0.99932), and test (0.99922) datasets, with an overall coefficient of 0.86662, affirming the model's efficacy in predicting tool wear. The minimum predicted tool wear (0.1007mm) was observed at a 0.50mm depth of cut, cutting speed of 200m/min, and feed rate of 0.15mm/rev, demonstrating a close alignment with the observed data. The ANN predictions effectively capture the intricate relationship between tool wear and process parameters, substantiated by high correlation coefficients.
Production of Sequential Interpenetrating Polymer Networks from Ximenia americana Seed Oil-based Polyurethanes and Polystyrene
Authors: Samuel A. E. , Eromosele I. C. , Kamba S. Y. , Samaila D. S.
Published: March 2024

Interpenetrating polymer network are combinations of two or more polymer in network form. The objective of this paper was to evaluate the production and characterization of sequential polyurethane-polystyrene interpenetrating polymer networks from different diisocyanates and varied styrene content using Ximenia americana seed oil as base material. The polymer networks were characterized for their Tensile, Swelling and Thermal properties. The tensile strength and tensile modulus for MDPU-1.50-PS polymer networks, 57.86 ±5.42 - 422.85±15.25 MPa and 2.26±0.91 - 11.08±4.21 MPa respectively are higher than the values represented for HDPU-1.50-PS and TDPU-1.50-PS polymer networks, but the latter polymer networks are higher in values for elongation at break than the former. This is also corroborated by the swelling mass ratio (qm) with values for HDPU-1.50-PS and TDPU-1.50-PS networks higher than those for MDPU-1.50-PS, consistent with lower polystyrene crosslinks in the former polymer networks. Thermal studies present HDPU-1.50-PS-20 as the most stable network at 10% degradation, but at higher degradation temperatures MDPU-1.50-PS-20 polymer network shows stability up to 6000C with 19.40g residual weight of char polymer. This study shows that derivatised Ximenia americana seed oil is suitable as starting material for preparation of an interpenetrating polymer network.
Assessment of Status and Distribution of Trees Inside Forest and Trees Outside Forest between 1990-2021 in Adamawa Central, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Ba A. M. , Isah M. , Mohammed S. A. , Modibbo A. M.
Published: March 2024

Forests significantly aid the stabilization of the global ecology by solving environmental concerns such as climate change and carbon sequestering. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to evaluate the status and distribution of Trees Inside Forest (TIF) and Trees Outside Forests (TOF) between 1990 and 2021in Adamawa Central, Adamawa State Nigeria, using standard methods of the Normalized Different Vegetation Index (NDVI), through the use of satellite imagery from 1990, 2000, 2013, and 2021 respectively. The findings showed that, the TOF decreased from 12.9 km2 in 1990 to just 3.6 km2 in 2021, the number of TIF decreased from 549.2 km2 in 1990 to 174.8 km2 in 2021. A shift in policy is necessary to mitigate the negative effects of changing land cover, boosting agricultural production, and restoring urban and forest trees by various means like afforestation and replanting.
Stormwater Quantity and Quality Management Options in Rapidly Urbanizing Watersheds: The Case of Mbezi River Catchment in Dar Es Salaam-Tanzania
Authors: Mhina G. J. , Mapinduzi P. R.
Published: March 2024

Over the past two decades there has been a growing worldwide concern about the ability of urban infrastructure systems to withstand the increasing impacts of urban population and climate change. Akin to similar concerns, the objective of this paper was to evaluate stormwater quantity and quality management options in rapidly urbanizing watershed of Mbezi River catchment in Dar es Salaam-Tanzania using field investigations, public meetings and GIS techniques. Analysis results of capacity quantification of the proposed stormwater management components indicate that stormwater harvesting alone can disconnect up to 12% of stormwater runoff stream generated in the study catchment. In addition to other components, the proposed landscape-based stormwater management system puts more emphasis on rainwater harvesting, stormwater retention and detention elements to decelerate runoff speed and enhance more residence time for the runoff not only to infiltrate, but also to evapotranspire, while improving the scenery and aesthetic quality of the environment altogether.
Hydrogeochemical evaluation of Groundwater Suitability for Drinking and Irrigation Purposes in Coastal Community of Gbaramatu Kingdom, Nigeria
Authors: Omorogieva O. M. , Ugwuja J. C. , Tonjoh J. A. , Eyinlaye A. O.
Published: March 2024

The aim of this paper was to evaluate the hydrogeochemistry of groundwater suitability for drinking and irrigation purposes in Okerenkoko Gbaramatu Kingdom, South-South Region, Nigeria using standard methods. The results obtained in the study indicates that over 70% of the groundwater under investigation fell in the category of C3S1 and C4S1 in the USSL salinity diagram implying high to very high salinity. The concentration of Lead (Pb) in all the samples collected exceeded the recommended value of 0.01 mg/L set by the World Health Organization and the Standard Organization of Nigeria respectively. Groundwater from the study area can only serve as irrigation purpose for salt tolerant crops like the sweet potato, grain-sorghum, sugar beet, cotton and carrot. The production of these crops on the vast arable fallow land will contribute significantly to food security and economic advancement of the study area and the global community at large. Conversely, the groundwater cannot be consumed unless treatment is administered.
Survey of Natural Radioactivity of Soil and Rock Samples and their Radiological Implications to Human Health in Ugwuele Quarry Mining Site, Uturu, Abia State, Nigeria
Authors: Echeweozo E. O. , Agwu K. K. , Ogada J.  C. , Ike P. O.
Published: March 2024

This work measured the activity concentration of natural radionuclides 238U, 232Th and 40K in soil and rock samples collected in Ugwuele mining site and it surrounding communities in Uturu, Abia state, Nigeria. Fifteen different samples collected were analyzed.  A NaI (Tl) spectrometry detector system was adopted for this research. The results obtained were used to estimate the radiological implication of the quarry mining in the study area.  The average gamma activity obtained for 238U, 232Th and 40K in soil were 53.39 ± 3.08, 76.79 ± 9.66 and 1061.02 ± 15.72 Bq/kg respectively and 55.09 ± 5.71, 90.96 ± 16.10 and 1281.78 ± 6.38 Bq/kg respectively for rock samples. The calculated radiological hazard indices from Absorbed dose rate, Annual effective dose, Radium equivalent, internal hazard index and External hazard index gave 120.25 nGy/h, 0.147 msv/yr, 247.5 Bq/kg, 0.833 and 0.687 respectively. The average dose rate was higher than the recommended limit. Therefore, soil and rock materials found in Ugwuele could increase the radiological hazards on miners and residents of the area due to long time cumulative exposure.
Evaluation and Optimization of Proximate Composition, Farinographical, Extensographical and Sensory Properties of Sausage Rolls Made from Wheat-Breadfruit Flour Composite
Authors: Olurin T. O. , Ogunmoyela O. A. B. , Okuofu S. I. , Ajiboye O.
Published: March 2024

Flour forms the skeleton that supports the other ingredients in a baked products such as bread, cakes, and pastries. Both the physical and chemical characteristics of flours affect their quality and the subsequent products from them. Hence, this paper evaluates the proximate composition, farinographical and extensographical properties and sensory evaluation of sausage rolls made from wheat-breadfruit flour composite using standard methods. Breadfruit substitutions decreased the protein contents while ash, crude fibre and moisture contents increased significantly (p ≤ 0.05) in the blends. Likewise, the pasting properties and sensory evaluation showed that BF substitution up to 25 % resulted in the dough and a sausage rolls that were similar to 100 % wheat dough and sausages. Further optimisation of the baking parameters showed that 25 % bf substituted flour could be baked at (160 -190 oC) for 20 – 29 min to produce a highly acceptable sausage roll. These results of the study showed the possibility of replacing wheat flour with breadfruit flour in the production of good quality sausage rolls.
Evaluation of Equivalent Noise Levels across Some Commercial Areas of Warri and Benin Metropolis in Nigeria
Authors: Akpolile A. F. , Tobi A. C. , Abdul F. E.
Published: March 2024

Globalisation has given rise to an increase in the amount of noise generated around us, such that man has adjusted to this increment without considering the possible risks associated with it. This study aims to measure the equivalent noise level in eighteen (18) locations in some commercial areas of Warri and Benin Metropolis in Nigeria using a noise level metre (Model: CEL-231). The assessment was done twice daily, during the day and at night. The results obtained revealed that the daytime equivalent noise level of both cities ranged from 48–68, 78–102 dBA for minimum and maximum noise levels, while the nighttime equivalent noise level ranged from 39–59, 59–83 dBA for minimum and maximum levels, respectively. It was observed that the daytime noise level values in some locations for both cities were higher than the nighttime values and also higher than the recommended standard noise quality description for daytime and nighttime duration as recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and some existing literature in Nigeria and across the globe. The reason for this noise level elevation is due to the activities of automobiles and tricycles plying the road incessantly, and again, these are major industrial cities with a lot of activities during the daytime. However, it can be recommended that those whose daily activities confine them to areas with unhealthy noise levels ensure at least 10 hours of recovery time in areas where the sound level is less than 65 dBA and also encourage the planting of trees in this vicinity
Severe hypoxemia after radiofrequency ablation for atrial fibrillation in palliatively repaired tetralogy of Fallot: A case report
Authors: Li Zhi-Hang , Lou Lian , Chen Yu-Xiao , Shi Wen , Zhang Xuan , Yang Jian
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Patients with tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) often have arrhythmias, commonly being atrial fibrillation (AF). Radiofrequency ablation is an effective treatment for AF and does not usually cause severe postoperative hypoxemia, but the risk of complications may increase in patients with conditions such as TOF.

CASE SUMMARY

We report a young male patient with a history of TOF repair who developed severe hypoxemia after radiofrequency ablation for AF and was ultimately confirmed to have a new right-to-left shunt. The patient subsequently underwent atrial septal occlusion and eventually recovered.

CONCLUSION

Radiofrequency ablation may cause iatrogenic atrial septal injury; thus possible complications should be predicted in order to ensure successful treatment and patient safety.
Stranci u svom / Strangers in Their Own Space
Authors: Handanović Merima
Published: March 2024

Using the example of two novels by Dževad Karahasan, The Night Council and Introduction to Floating, this paper provides a comparative analysis of the characters of Simon Mihailović and Peter Hurd in relation to the figure of the stranger, who is searching for parts of his being in a dislocated space. Considering the spiral structure of both novels and the intertextual connections with Dante’s Divine Comedy, this paper uses a comparative approach to discuss the treatment and role of the guide through the different types of “hell” which the characters experience. Along with the question of artistic motivation and the motivational system of a literary work, the work analyzes and problematizes the relationship of the characters to situations. In addition, the paper questions the literary constructions through which the characters move in getting to know themselves. Through the comparison of the characters of Simon Mihailović and Peter Hurd, this paper questions Mihailović’s and Hurd’s relationship with their guides through “hell”, Enver Pilav and Rajko Šurup. Using a comparative approach to analyse the characters of the strangers in two novels by Dževad Karahasan, this paper shows different relationships to the same phenomenon, as well as different ways of manifesting the intertextual connection.
Unutargrupna pristranost / In-Group Bias
Authors: Batinić Marija , Hadžiahmetović Nina
Published: March 2024

Religion represents a system of beliefs, understandings, and actions from which religious individuals draw an array of values for their judgments of the world. Religiousness is a multidimensional construct comprising a multitude of religious orientations of which extrinsic and intrinsic religiousness are the most prominent in scientific literature. Also, in the social psychological domain, religion represents a social group whose members show a tendency toward in-group bias, a phenomenon basically immanent in every social group. The construct of in-group favoritism refers to a tendency of favoring one’s in-group members over out-group members. The focus of this paper is oriented on the basic dimensions of religiousness and their behavioral manifestations such as in-group favoritism, prejudice, biases in prosocial behavior, etc. Based on scientific literature, the aim of this paper is to determine the relations between religiousness and in-group bias, i.e., favoring the in-group and derogation of the out-group. An additional aim is to demonstrate the importance of the influence of religious priming on the social behavior of an individual in terms of making or breaking in-group biases and out-group prejudices.
Prof. dr Midhat Riđanović (1935-2023)
Authors: Leko Nedžad
Published: March 2024

In memoriam.
Uvodna riječ / Foreword
Authors: Sadiković Amira
Published: March 2024

Foreword.
EVALUATION OF THE PERFORMANCE OF POLYMER ELECTROLYTE MEMBRANE FUEL CELL (PEMFC) DESIGNED IN DIFFERENT SIZES
Authors: YILMAZ Adem , ÜNVAR Sinan , AYGÜN Bünyamin
Published: March 2024

Fuel cells, which are the technology of the future, are the formation of electrical energy by the combination of hydrogen and oxygen as a result of a chemical reaction and the release of heat with H2O as waste. The fuel cell is a device that consists of an electrolyte and two electrodes during this coupling and converts chemical energy into electrical energy. Since electricity is produced without combustion, less pollution occurs. The part where the chemical reaction takes place in the Polymer Electrolyte Membrane (PEM) fuel cell consists of the membrane. In this study, the fuel consumption of different sizes (5-25-50 cm2) of fuel cells was investigated and the factors affecting the performance were determined experimentally. First of all, the PEM fuel cell was installed, and appropriate amounts of Hydrogen (H2) and Oxygen (O2) were sent to the fuel cell according to the characteristics of the established cell. During the study, the performances of different sizes of fuel cells were determined. The performance of fuel cells was evaluated according to their size and the amount of electrical energy they would produce was calculated. It was determined that the most efficient fuel cell is C60H60 with a size of 5 cm2, C60H46 with a size of 25 cm2 and C60H46 with a size of 50 cm2.
TEDARİK ZİNCİRİNDE DİRENÇ KONULU LİTERATÜRÜN BİBLİYOMETRİK ANALİZİ
Authors: KOCAOĞLU Batuhan , ULUÇAY Utkan
Published: March 2024

Küreselleşmenin etkisi ve karmaşıklaşan ürün-üretim yapıları nedeniyle tedarik zincirlerinin geleneksel doğrusal yöntemlerle açıklanması giderek zorlaşmaktadır. Bu çalışmanın amacı CAS (Complex Adaptive Systems-Karmaşık Uyumlu Sistemler) yaklaşımıyla bilimsel literatürdeki tedarik zinciri ve direnç konularının genel eğilimini ve literatürdeki boşlukları belirlemektir. Sistematik literatür tarama ve bibliyometrik bilimsel haritalama yöntemleriyle Web of Science veri tabanında tedarik zinciri özelinde araştırma yapılmıştır. Tedarik zinciri ve direnç konularının akademide son yıllarda ilgi çektiği, karmaşıklık teorisi yaklaşımının tedarik zinciri ve direnç konularına uygun bulunduğu, önerilen en yaygın analitik doğrulama yönteminin simülasyon olduğu görülmüştür. Bulguların ilgili fakültelerde müfredat güncellemesine ve konuyla ilgili çalışmaların literatürdeki eğilime göre ayarlanmasına katkı sağlaması beklenmektedir.
Incapacidad permanente derivada de enfermedades encuadradas en el síndrome del espectro de desregulación: criterios de los equipos de valoración versus judiciales
Authors: Catalán Mejía Gema
Published: March 2024

En los últimos años se han incrementado las enfermedades relacionadas con las patologías encuadradas dentro del síndrome del espectro de desregulación, o enfermedades de sensibilización central, no conociéndose las causas de estos padecimientos.

Este artículo analiza el tratamiento jurídico de estas patologías a efectos de su reconocimiento como situación incapacitante permanente en la seguridad social. Para ello es necesario adentrarse en el conocimiento nosológico de estas enfermedades, analizando las peculiaridades de aquellas que generan un mayor impacto a nivel incapacitante, centrando este análisis en tres enfermedades encuadradas en este síndrome, fibromialgia, síndrome de fatiga crónica y síndrome de hipersensibilidad electromagnética, por ser las enfermedades que presentan un mayor número de personas afectadas y un mayor impacto en el ámbito laboral. Se incidirá en las características fundamentales de este tipo de enfermedades que, en los casos en los que la afectación patológica refiera una especial gravedad, podrán ser susceptibles de reconocimiento incapacitante permanente, a través del tratamiento con el que se abordan estas situaciones en el ámbito administrativo de gestión de la seguridad social y posteriormente por parte de jueces y tribunales.
Dry Eye-Like Ocular Surface Dysfunction in Post-Vitreoretinal Surgery Eyes
Authors: Barabino Stefano
Published: March 2024

Objective: Dry eye is associated with reduced QoL and with the relevant social and economic costs. We evaluated the prevalence of dry eye signs and symptoms in a group of patients who underwent vitreoretinal surgery for epiretinal membrane removal for at least 6 months.

Method: Fourty-one consecutive patients were enrolled. Ocular surface symptoms were evaluated using a structured form and a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Blink completeness, Break-Up Time (BUT), fluorescein and lissamine green staining and thickness of the lower tear meniscus were also assessed. Lissamine green staining was used to evaluate the mucocutaneous junction.

Results: Symptoms were present up to 1 year from surgery in 80% of population. Foreign body and burning sensations were reported by 14 (34.1%) and 11 (26.8%) patients. Blinking was incomplete in 36.8% of patients; eyelid mucocutaneous junction was abnormal in 68.3% of patients. Mild or moderate eyelid injection were reported by 29 (70.7%) and 12 (21.3%) patients; moderate and peri-keratic hyperemia were reported by 22 (53.7%) and 15 (36.6%) patients. Only 26.2% of patients showed a normal BUT (>10 s). Corneal sensitivity was absent in 4 patients (9.8%) and strongly decreased in 2 patients (7.3%). The lower tear meniscus was <0.2 mm in 21 patients (51.2%). Fluorescein staining of the cornea was positive in 56% of patients.

Conclusion: Patients who underwent vitreoretinal surgery showed, in the long-term, signs and symptoms of ocular surface dysfunction (dry eye) with a frequency that is more than double the expected frequency of the disease.
Epidemio-Clinical Profile of Onchocerciasis in Sambwa in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Jean Paul Lukinga Witanene
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Onchocerciasis is the second leading cause of infectious blindness. This condition is serious because of its ocular complications. The sickness is caused through a Nematode specifique of I man Ochocerca Volvulus the transmission se made through a vecteur the Simulie (Mouches blacks circulant autours of the waters at current fast). We have 5 Syndroms: Cutane, Nodulaire, Oculaire, Lymphatique and Neurologique. These complications eyes him at valu the name of cecite of riviere through OMS in 1972. Our objective was to determine the epidemiological profile of onchocerciasis in the Sambwa health area.

Materials and method: We conducted a prospective cross-sectional descriptive study over a period of 5 months (01/01 to 01/05/2023). We included patients whose skin biopsy was positive for onchocerciasis, aged 10 to 90 years old and having lived more than 10 years in Sambwa. The significance threshold was 0.05%. Excel, Word and IBM SPSS 23 software were used for data entry and analysis. One hundred people were examined, 38 of whom were retained.

Results: The frequency of onchocerciasis was 38%, men predominated (57.9%, sex ratio 1.4). The average age was 64.37±11.63 years. Farmers represented 68.4%. Most patients had a stay in Sambwa of 10 to 29 years (42.2%). Ocular syndromes represented 57.6% of cases, of which bilateral cataract (31.6%) predominated, there was an association between age and ocular syndromes (p=0.00011). Blindness represented 31.6% of cases in the right eye while in the left eye mild impairment represented 26.3% of cases. Tonometry between 15.9 and 20.6 mmHg was 81.6% on the right and 76.3% on the left. In most cases the fundus was inaccessible (26.3% on the right and 21.1% on the left). In 47.4% of cases there was a refractive error.

Conclusion: Considering our results, onchocerciasis is a relatively common condition, the Sambwa health area is a Hypoendemic area.