bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Young and the Wild: What Happens to Protoclusters Forming at Redshift z ≈ 4?
Authors: Remus Rhea-Silvia , Dolag Klaus , Dannerbauer Helmut
Published: June 2023

Using one of the largest volumes of the hydrodynamical cosmological simulation suit Magneticum, we study the evolution of protoclusters identified at redshift ≈ 4, with properties similar to the well-observed protocluster SPT2349-56. We identify 42 protoclusters in the simulation as massive and equally rich in substructures as observed, confirming that these observed structures can already be virialized. The dynamics of the internally fast-rotating member galaxies within these protoclusters resemble observations, merging rapidly to form the cores of the brightest cluster galaxies of the assembling clusters. Half of the gas reservoir of these structures is in a hot phase, with the metal enrichment at a very early stage. These systems show a good agreement with the observed amount of cold star-forming gas, largely enriched to solar values. We predict that some of the member galaxies are already quenched at z ≈ 4, rendering them undetectable through measurements of their gas reservoirs. Tracing the evolution of protoclusters reveals that none of the typical mass indicators at high redshift are good tracers to predict the present-day mass of the system. We find that none of the simulated protoclusters at z = 4.3 are among the top ten most massive clusters at redshift z = 0.2, with some barely reaching masses of M ≈ 2 × 1014
M
⊙. Although the average star formation and mass growth rates in the simulated galaxies match observations at high redshift reasonably well, the simulation fails to reproduce the extremely high total star formation rates within the observed protoclusters, indicating that the subgrid models are lacking the ability to reproduce a higher star formation efficiency (or lower depletion timescales).
Searching for Dwarf Hα Emission-line Galaxies within Voids. I. Survey Methods and First Observations
Authors: Draper Christian D. , Moody J. Ward , McNeil Stephen R. , Joner Michael D. , Steele Rochelle , Steele Jackson
Published: June 2023

The population density of dwarf galaxies in low-density voids is likely determined by the dark matter halo mass function and how galaxy formation proceeds in smaller halos. This depends on the nature of dark matter itself, making the dwarf galaxy population a tracer of its properties. While dwarfs have been found in smaller, closer voids, they have proven difficult to find in larger, more distant voids through magnitude-limited spectroscopic surveys. This is because these surveys detect an overwhelmingly large number of objects behind the voids that must be verified spectroscopically, making void surveys prohibitively inefficient and expensive in terms of large-telescope time. Narrowband imaging for emission lines such as Hα reduces the number of background objects, although the overall number remains large. If imaging is done through a filter set with overlapping transmission wings, then object redshift can be estimated from photometry alone. The precision possible is an order of magnitude greater than single-band photometry, with the caveat that the captured line must be identified through other means. Broadband photometry can be used to reject enough objects with emission of an unwanted type to make obtaining spectra of the remaining objects feasible. In this study, we present an Hα survey for dwarf galaxies with M

r
′ fainter than −14 mag through the center 4.3 square degrees of the void FN8. Using Sloan

g
′
,
r
′
,
i
′

photometry, we exclude enough [O ii] and [O iii] emitters that follow-up spectra of only a few dozen objects are required to statistically estimate the void population density.
Binary Formation in a 100 μm Dark Massive Core
Authors: Kong 孔 Shuo 朔 , Arce Héctor G. , Tobin John J. , Zhang Yichen , Maureira María José , Kratter Kaitlin M. , Pillai Thushara G. S.
Published: June 2023

We report high-resolution ALMA observations toward a massive protostellar core C1-Sa (∼30 M
⊙) in the Dragon infrared dark cloud. At the resolution of 140 au, the core fragments into two kernels (C1-Sa1 and C1-Sa2) with a projected separation of ∼1400 au along the elongation of C1-Sa, consistent with a Jeans length scale of ∼1100 au. Radiative transfer modeling using RADEX indicates that the protostellar kernel C1-Sa1 has a temperature of ∼75 K and a mass of 0.55 M
⊙. C1-Sa1 also likely drives two bipolar outflows, one being parallel to the plane of the sky. C1-Sa2 is not detected in line emission and does not show any outflow activity but exhibits ortho-H2D+ and N2D+ emission in its vicinity; thus it is likely still starless. Assuming a 20 K temperature, C1-Sa2 has a mass of 1.6 M
⊙. At a higher resolution of 96 au, C1-Sa1 begins to show an irregular shape at the periphery, but no clear sign of multiple objects or disks. We suspect that C1-Sa1 hosts a tight binary with inclined disks and outflows. Currently, one member of the binary is actively accreting while the accretion in the other is significantly reduced. C1-Sa2 shows hints of fragmentation into two subkernels with similar masses, which requires further confirmation with higher sensitivity.
Protéger l’emploi et lutter contre la dégradation du revenu des ménages
Authors: Chardon-Boucaud Solal
Published: June 2023

Cet article étudie les politiques de sauvegarde de l’emploi et de préservation du revenu des ménages déployées dans plusieurs pays européens (France, Allemagne, Royaume-Uni, Italie, Espagne, Pays-Bas, Belgique, Luxembourg, Suède, Portugal, Irlande) pour faire face à la crise sanitaire. Nous dressons un bilan des mesures d’urgence (chômage partiel, aides exceptionnelles…) mises en place par les États en les rapportant aux évolutions d’indicateurs de performances sociales (taux de chômage, pouvoir d’achat des ménages…). Nous montrons que les politiques déployées ont jusqu’à présent globalement permis d’éviter une forte augmentation du chômage et une dégradation trop marquée du revenu des ménages. Dans l’ensemble, les politiques de protection sociale qui semblent générer les meilleurs résultats sont celles qui ont associé un dispositif d’activité partielle de grande ampleur avec des aides exceptionnelles ciblées sur les foyers les plus précaires. Nous mettons aussi en perspective, via une élaboration de faits stylisés, les réformes ou projets de réformes qui visent à pallier les faiblesses des systèmes de protection sociale européens mises en exergue par la pandémie. Nous montrons que des efforts conséquents sont engagés pour améliorer la couverture de certaines populations à risque (indépendants, jeunes…), accroître la prise en charge des risques emploi et exclusion sociale et améliorer les services fournis aux citoyens dans les secteurs de la santé et des soins de longue durée.
Understanding of low-carbon steel marine corrosion through simulation in artificial seawater
Authors: Pusparizkita Yustina M , Fardilah Vivi A. , Aslan Christian , Jamari J. , Bayuseno Athanasius P
Published: June 2023

The current laboratory experiments investigated the corrosion resistance of carbon steel in artificial seawater (ASW) using the steel coupons hanging on a closed glass reactor of ASW with volume-to-specimen area ratios ranging from 0.20 to 0.40 mL/mm2. These coupons were immersed in ASW for varying time durations (7 and 14 d) at room temperature without agitation. Further, the corrosion rates based on the weight loss and electrochemical analytical method were determined. Following exposure to carbon steel for 7 and 14 d, corrosion rates were 0.2780 mmpy and 0.3092 mmpy, respectively. The surfaces appeared to be not protected by oxides based on this result. The electrochemical impedance spectrometer in potentiostatic/galvanostatic mode, in conjunction with EDX analysis, predicted the evolution of oxygen reduction. The 7th-day immersion sample had a higher oxygen content, and the 14th-day immersion sample had a slightly lower oxygen content. Methods of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) characterized the surface morphology and composition of their corrosion product. Corrosion products derived from rust minerals hematite, lepidocrocite and magnetite appeared to cover the carbon steel surface after exposure. This result can get insight into the corrosion behavior of low-carbon steel used in marine environments.
Local stabilization for a hyperchaotic finance system via time-delayed feedback based on discrete-time observations
Authors: Xu Erfeng , Xiao Wenxing , Chen Yonggang
Published: June 2023

This paper considers the local stabilization problem for a hyperchaotic finance system by using a time-delayed feedback controller based on discrete-time observations. The quadratic system theory is employed to represent the nonlinear finance system and a piecewise augmented discontinuous Lyapunov-Krasovskii functional is constructed to analyze the stability of the closed-loop system. By further incorporating some advanced integral inequalities, a stabilization criterion is proposed by means of the feasibility of a set of linear matrix inequalities under which the hyperchaotic finance system can be asymptotically stabilized for any initial condition satisfying certain constraint. As the by-product, a simplified criterion is also obtained for the case without time delay. Moreover, the optimization problems with respect to the domain of attraction are specially discussed, which are transformed into the minimization problems subject to linear matrix inequalities. Finally, numerical simulations are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the derived results.
On a two-dimensional nonlinear system of difference equations close to the bilinear system
Authors: Stević Stevo , Tollu Durhasan Turgut
Published: June 2023

We consider the two-dimensional nonlinear system of difference equations

   \begin{document}$ x_n = x_{n-k}\frac{ay_{n-l}+by_{n-(k+l)}}{cy_{n-l}+dy_{n-(k+l)}},\quad y_n = y_{n-k}\frac{{\alpha} x_{n-l}+{\beta} x_{n-(k+l)}}{{\gamma} x_{n-l}+{\delta} x_{n-(k+l)}}, $\end{document}

for $ n\in{\mathbb N}_0, $ where the delays $ k $ and $ l $ are two natural numbers, and the initial values $ x_{-j}, y_{-j} $, $ 1\le j\le k+l $, and the parameters $ a, b, c, d, {\alpha}, {\beta}, {\gamma}, {\delta} $ are real numbers. We show that the system of difference equations is solvable by presenting a method for finding its general solution in detail. Bearing in mind that the system of equations is a natural generalization of the corresponding one-dimensional difference equation, whose special cases appear in the literature from time to time, our main result presented here also generalizes many results therein.
Socio-Ecological and Green Innovation Management System Performance
Authors: Vargas-Hernandez José G. , Ali Muhammad Mahboob , Vargas-González Omar C.
Published: June 2023

This study has the aim to analyze the implications of socio-ecological and green innovation management system performance. It begins from the assumption that the socio-ecological system in any national, regional, local, organizational, group, and personal green innovation in system performance leads to the system performance. The method employed is a meta-analytical reflection based on theoretical and empirical literature review of the literature. It is concluded that the green innovation management system performance is determined by the socio-ecological strategies and policymaking.
The Past, Present, and Future of Sustainable Marketing
Authors: Popescu Catalin , Ionescu Razvan , Gigauri Iza
Published: June 2023

Sustainable Development Goals have to be integrated into every aspect of modern society. Economic agents are transforming accordingly taking into consideration the economic, social, and environmental footprints of their activities. The marketing domain has devoted attention to sustainability issues for a long time. Organizations have applied social marketing, ethical and green marketing, as well as corporate social responsibility in their marketing strategies and programs. Sustainable marketing can center on sustainable communication, sustainable production and consumption, sustainable branding, and the promotion of sustainable behavior. The connection between marketing and sustainability can be contradictory as traditional marketing strategies induce overconsumption. Moreover, enhanced digitalization affects marketing and shapes the tools and strategies marketers are adopting. Digital transformation of marketing is expected to be based on sustainable development.
Why Do We Need Sustainable Digital Marketing?
Authors: Tchanturia Nino , Dalakishvili Rusudan
Published: June 2023

The conventional approach to business is not eco-friendly, and as the issue of climate change intensifies, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their preferred companies. Therefore, businesses need to evaluate their impact on the environment. Consumers are becoming more informed about how their purchases affect the environment and more selective about which companies they buy from. According to a survey by IBM, 57% of respondents are willing to alter their buying habits to decrease environmental impact. People want to contribute to ecological preservation, and one way to do so is by using their purchasing power. As a company, it is crucial to provide customers with the opportunity to support environmental sustainability by purchasing your products. This is where sustainable marketing can be beneficial.
PROGETTO DI PACE O FATA MORGANA? L’ACCORDO MARITTIMO TRA LIBANO E ISRAELE ALLA PROVA DEI FATTI
Authors: Mazzucotelli Francesco
Published: June 2023

L'accordo tra Libano e Israele sulla delimitazione dei confini marittimi e delle zone economiche esclusive è molto insolito. I due Paesi non hanno normalizzato le loro relazioni e non hanno firmato un trattato di pace dopo l'armistizio del 1949 e le vicissitudini dei decenni successivi, tra cui più di vent'anni di occupazione militare israeliana del sud del Libano. Il 27 ottobre 2022, con la mediazione degli Stati Uniti, le parti hanno raggiunto un accordo che risolve le controversie esistenti sui giacimenti di gas situati nel Mediterraneo orientale. L'accordo è stato annunciato come una potenziale svolta, in quanto potrebbe consentire l'esplorazione e l'estrazione di risorse di idrocarburi non ancora sfruttate. Tuttavia, il più ampio contesto bilaterale e regionale rimane altamente volatile e può ostacolare un'efficace attuazione dell'accordo. Le dinamiche della demarcazione del confine terrestre tra Libano e Israele, così come la disputa in corso sulle zone economiche esclusive e sullo sfruttamento delle risorse nelle acque intorno a Cipro, dimostrano come le pratiche di tracciatura dei confini definite dalla razionalità pragmatica e da considerazioni tecniche non siano di per sé in grado di modificare la struttura del conflitto in assenza di accordi più completi e di una volontà politica di compromesso.
Diritto al pianeta
Authors: Veca Salvatore
Published: June 2023

Non disponibile.
A clinical study to evaluate the reliability of light-correcting devices in clinical shade selection
Authors: Kurian Nirmal , Varghese Vinaya Susan , Sudharson Nishanth A , Wadhwa Samiksha , Narang Chitvan , Sethi Nivea , Singh Irina
Published: June 2023

Background:

Visual and advanced instrumental methods are the most common tools for shade selection. The instrumental methods are considered reliable and provide quantifiable values, but the high cost puts them out of the reach of most dentists. Light-correcting devices provide an economical alternative for clinical shade selection. The aim of this study was to assess the reliability of the light-correcting device in clinical shade selection.

Materials and Methods:

The in vivo experimental prospective study sample included 60 volunteers aged 18–25 years, with no severe enamel pigmentation or anomaly in anterior maxillary teeth. Two observers performed visual shade matching of the maxillary right central incisor without a light-correcting device and later with a light-correcting device at the same time of the day at an interval of 1 week. The shades were confirmed with the control value obtained by using a spectrophotometer. Each observer was blinded to the shade color selected by the other examiner. The data collected were subjected to the statistical analysis. The shade measured with the light-correcting device and without its use was compared with the control shade obtained by the spectrophotometer. The value closer to the control shade value was considered accurate, and the method used for shade matching would be considered reliable. The Fleiss kappa statistical test was used to assess the reliability of each method. P ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

Using a light-correcting device significantly increased the reliability of the visual shade selection method. When compared to the shades recorded by the spectrophotometer (control), the use of a light-correcting device as an aid in visual shade selection showed more accurate and reliable results as compared to the visual shade selection without a light-correcting device (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Light-correcting devices can assist in reliable shade selection and allow better communication with the dental laboratory technician to provide predictable esthetic results.
Effect of premedication on the success of inferior alveolar nerve block in patients diagnosed with irreversible pulpitis: An umbrella review
Authors: Khademi Abbasali , Iranmanesh Pedram , Mosayebi Neda , Heydari Mahboobeh , Bagherieh Shervin
Published: June 2023

Successful management of pain during endodontic treatment is essential for both patients and dentists. Achieving adequate pulp anesthesia in mandibular molars is a significant concern for patients with irreversible pulpitis during endodontic treatment. The increased sensitization of nociceptors due to inflammation decreases the success of inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB). The main focus is on reducing inflammation before delivery of local anesthesia to increase the success of anesthetic drugs. This umbrella review aimed to revise, qualify and summarize the existing body of evidence on the effect of premedication on IANB in patients with irreversible pulpitis. A literature search was conducted using electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, the Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library) with no date restriction until September 2021 to identify the relevant studies. All the cross-references of the selected studies and grey literature were also screened. Four systematic reviews assessing the effect of premedication on the success of IANB were selected. A conclusion was drawn that premedication with >400 mg of ibuprofen can positively affect the success of IANB.
Astragalus adscendens extract shows antidiabetic effects through controlling oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Raziani Yosra , Karami Kimia , Mohammadi Hamid Reza , Mahmoudvand Hossein , Moradi Mohammad Nabi , Yadegari Javad Ghasemian
Published: June 2023

Objective:

To assess the effect of oral treatment of methanolic extract of the aerial parts of Astragalus adscendens in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.

Methods:

In order to induce diabetes, rats intraperitoneally received streptozotocin at 65 mg/kg. Sixty adult male Wistar rats were allocated into six groups (10 rats per each) including the healthy control group, the diabetic group as well as the diabetic group treated with Astragalus adscendens methanolic extract at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg per day or glibenclamide (0.6 mg/kg/day) for 28 d. The effects of Astragalus adscendens methanolic extract on the levels of glucose, insulin, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate aminotransferase, bilirubin, creatinine, urea, uric acid, total protein, albumin, triglyceride, cholesterol, α-amylase, oxidant/antioxidant enzymes, and inflammatory cytokines were evaluated. Real time-PCR was also used for measuring the gene expression of caspase-3, Bcl2, and Bax.

Results:

The levels of glucose, cholesterol, triglyceride, creatinine, urea, uric acid, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, and malondialdehyde considerably declined (P<0.001) in diabetic rats after treatment with Astragalus adscendens methanolic extract especially at a dose of 200 mg/kg. In addition, treatment with Astragalus adscendens methanolic extract noticeably increased the level of insulin, total protein, and albumin as well as improved the activities of catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase, as well as the expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, caspase-3, Bcl2 and Bax (P<0.001) compared to the diabetic control group. The extract also inhibited α-amylase in a dose-dependent manner with an IC50 value of 19.6 µg/mL.

Conclusions:

Astragalus adscendens methanolic extract shows potent antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and antioxidant effects in diabetic rats. However, more studies are needed to verify the underlying mechanism of the effect of this plant extract and test its efficacy in clinical trials.
Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis in Primary Sjogren Syndrome
Authors: Mishra Om Prakash , Singh Ankur , Gupta Priyanka , Prasad Rajniti , Batra Vineeta Vijay
Published: June 2023

Sjogren syndrome is an autoimmune disorder primarily affecting adults. Presentation in childhood is uncommon. Kidney manifestations chiefly include hypokalemia and renal tubular acidosis. The common pathological lesions which have been reported are tubulointerstitial nephritis, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, membranous nephropathy, and rarely, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). We report a patient of primary Sjogren syndrome, who presented with rough dry skin, recurrent parotid swellings, positive anti-Sjogren-syndrome-related antigen A autoantibodies, secondary nephrotic syndrome and acute kidney injury, with FSGS on histopathology, and remission of proteinuria following immunosuppression.
C3 Glomerulopathy in a Nigerian Adolescent with Nephritic-Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Briggs Datonye Christopher , Aitafo Josephine Enekole , Adefidipe Adeyemi Abiola
Published: June 2023

C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) occurs due to an alternative complement pathway overdrive. Differentiating C3G subtypes from postinfectious-glomerulonephritis and treatment is a challenge in resource-constrained settings. A 13-year-old girl, presenting with nephritic-nephrotic syndrome, low C3-complement, and increased anti-streptolysin O (ASO) titre, became steroid resistant with C3 hypocomplementemia persisting beyond 12 weeks. Initial kidney biopsy suggested collapsing glomerulopathy. She received mycophenolate mofetil, steroids and angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitors. Repeat biopsy revealed mesangioproliferative glomerulonephritis and only brightly staining glomerular C3c on immunofluorescence, suggestive of C3G. C3 nephritic factor was negative. Electron microscopy was unfeasible. After 2 years, partial remission of proteinuria with a slowing of chronic kidney disease progression was observed.
A study on the burden of disability among the residents of Endosulfan-sprayed areas of Dakshina Kannada
Authors: Sanora Arjun B , Senapathi Pradeep , Perduru Sushantha , Kambale Shambulinga , Salim Saniya K , Azeez Abeera , Shabanaz
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Endosulfan is one of the most dangerous pesticides with numerous nations reporting unintentional and deliberate harm brought on by its use. Before a ban was put in place, Endosulfan was widely applied on the cashew plantations in more than 90 villages in the Dakshina Kannada district. This study aims to assess the severity of disease among persons identified with specific illnesses in Endosulfan-sprayed areas of Dakshina Kannada district of Karnataka.

Materials and Methods:

A record-based study was conducted from September, 2022 to October 2022 where detailed information was obtained regarding persons identified with specific illnesses in Endosulfan-sprayed areas of Dakshina Kannada from records maintained at the District Health Office of Dakshina Kannada. Data regarding socio-demographic details and severity of disability were collected.

Results:

Among five taluks of Dakshina Kannada district, a total of 4542 persons were identified with specific illness due to Endosulfan spray. Majority are in Puttur taluk (40%) followed by Belthangadi taluk (34.6%). The severity of disability was <25%, 25%–60%, and >60% for 12.1%, 20.7%, and 60.5%, respectively. Overall mortality was 6.6%.

Conclusion:

Disability more in Puttur and Belthangadi taluks. Disability allowance can be increased and allowance can be given to persons with <25% disability also.
Preliminary Pharmacognostical and Phytochemical Study of the Stem Bark of Berberis Aristata DC
Authors: Paudel Kiran , Ramamurthy A , Sharma Gaurav
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Berberis aristata DC. (Daruharidra) is the shrub of 8 feet in height. The root is woody thick and the bark is thin and brittle. B. aristata DC. have simple leaf arrangement. Flowers are numerous with racemose inflorescence. Fruits are small berry. Ethnobotanically, the plant is used in hepatic-related diseases, especially in jaundice, enlargement of the spleen and as an emmenagog. Alcoholic and aqueous extracts showed anti-inflammatory activity. Berries are used as laxative and antiscorbutics.

Aim:

The following study is based on the pharmacognostical and phytochemical study of B. aristata DC.

Subjects and Methods:

B. aristata DC. were collected from natural habitat and authenticated properly. TS, LS section of B. aristata DC. and powder microscopy of it were studied. The extractive values, pH values, moisture contents, and ash values were calculated. Rf value of the sample drug was also calculated.

Results:

The bark of B. aristata DC. is yellowish brown. The pharmacognostic, phytochemical, and thin layer chromatography of the drug sample were done, and values were evaluated.

Conclusion:

From the pharmacognostical study of the stem bark of B. aristata DC., there is cork which is thin-walled brown cells. Presences of starch grain, yellow coloring matter, trichomes in elongated cells, 'V-shaped vascular bundles are the diagnostic characteristics of B. aristata DC. Dragendorff's test positive signifies the presence of alkaloids in B. aristata DC. extract.
Can Environmental Assessment Protect Caribou? Analysis of EA in Nunavut, Canada, 1999-2019
Authors: Cameron Emilie , Kennedy Sheena
Published: June 2023

This paper analyses the environmental assessment of every proposed mining project that has undergone full review through the Nunavut Impact Review Board from 1999 to 2019, with specific emphasis on how impacts to caribou were identified and assessed. Caribou are the most important terrestrial species in Nunavut from a food security, traditional culture, and harvesting perspective, and mining is known to have impacts on caribou habitat, migration and calving behaviour, predation and hunting patterns, and other effects. Close study of how caribou impacts are discerned and evaluated within environmental assessment (EA) can thus reveal broader trends about both EA and the broader resource governance process. Although some project proposals were initially rejected, every EA ultimately concluded that impacts to caribou were not significant, despite evidence presented to the contrary. We present three modes through which serious impacts are rendered insignificant within EA (mitigation, strategic use of scale, and strategic use of Inuit knowledge and consultation) and comment on the broader context shaping EA in Nunavut. We argue that EA cannot do what it is expected to do (come to rational, science-based decisions that balance ecological, social, and economic goals) and is an insufficient tool for ensuring the long-term well-being of caribou in Nunavut.
Congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) presenting as spontaneous pneumothorax in young boy
Authors: Lonsane Abhijeet Rameshwar , Wankhede Vaibhav Vishwambhar , Tirpude Sneha , Rout Abhipsa , Kekre Geeta
Published: June 2023

Congenital pulmonary airway malformation (CPAM) is most common congenital lung anomaly of lower respiratory tract accounting for approximately 25% of all congenital pulmonary malformations. It is usually unilateral and involves single lobe of lung. It is usually diagnosed prenatally; rarely found in children and adults. We report a rare case of 14-year-old male presented with sudden onset breathlessness secondary to right sided pneumothorax associated with right lower lobe cystic lesion; successfully managed with multidisciplinary approach involving tube thoracostomy and non-anatomical wedge resection of right lower lobe cystic lesion (using VATS). Adults diagnosed with CPAM usually present with breathlessness, fever, recurrent pulmonary infection, pneumothorax, and haemoptysis. For definitive treatment of symptomatic CPAM cases, surgical resection at the time of diagnosis is recommended in view of possible risk of malignant transformation and recurrent respiratory tract infections. Considering the mild but definitive risk of malignancy, it is advocated to closely monitor the individuals with CPAM even after the surgical resection.
Nebulised magnesium sulphate as an adjuvant to the treatment of acute exacerbation of COPD: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials with trial sequential analysis
Authors: Datta Priyankar Kumar , Aravindan Ajisha , Nath Sayan , Chowdhury Sumit Roy , Dutta Deep
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy of nebulised magnesium in the treatment of acute exacerbation of COPD. PubMed and Embase databases were searched for randomised controlled trials comparing any dose of nebulised magnesium sulphate with placebo for treatment of acute exacerbation of COPD, published from database inception till 30 June 2022. Bibliographic mining of relevant results was performed to identify any additional studies. Data extraction and analyses were done independently by review authors and any disagreements were resolved through consensus. Meta-analysis was done using a fixed-effect model at clinically significant congruent time points reported across maximum studies to ensure comparability of treatment effect. Four studies met the inclusion criteria, randomly assigning 433 patients to the comparisons of interest in this review. Pooled analysis showed that nebulised magnesium sulphate improved pulmonary expiratory flow function at 60 minutes after initiation of intervention compared to placebo [median difference (MD) 9.17%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.94 to 15.41]. Analysis of expiratory function in terms of standardised mean differences (SMD) revealed a small yet significant positive effect size (SMD 0.24, 95% CI 0.04 to 0.43). Among the secondary outcomes, nebulised magnesium sulphate reduced the need for ICU admission (risk ratio 0.52, 95% CI 0.28 to 0.95), amounting to 61 fewer ICU admissions per 1000 patients. No difference was noted in the need for hospital admission, need for ventilatory support, or mortality. No adverse events were reported. Nebulised magnesium sulphate improves pulmonary expiratory flow function and reduces the need for ICU admission in patients with acute exacerbation of COPD.
Evaluating the Effect of an Intervention on Timeliness and Accuracy of Routine Immunization Data Reporting in Nigeria
Authors: Tor S , Onyeneho NG , Okolie N , Aronu N Idemili , Atumah O , Okwuosa LN , Igwe I , Ebenezer OT , Ezenwaka U , Mbachu C , Onwujekwe OE
Published: June 2023

ABSTRACT

Aim:

This paper provides new knowledge on the outcomes of an intervention implemented to improve the timeliness and accuracy of routine immunization (RI) data reporting for decision-making in Nigeria.

Method:

It used a pre-and post-intervention cross-sectional study design with 600 respondents selected from health facilities through a multistage sampling technique. A set of uniformly structured questionnaires was used to collect data on health workers’ perspectives on the uses of immunization data, collection, archiving, and storage of immunization data as well as the challenges associated with these, and suggestions for improvement. Data were also collected on the quality of immunization data available in the immunization programs using checklists on the timeliness and completeness of data submitted from the lower to the higher levels of the immunization programs. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and Chi-square statistics were used to measure the differences in the availability and quality of data before and after intervention. The dependent variables were timeliness and completeness of reporting of immunization data, whereas the independent variables included timing of the study, socio-demographic characteristics of the public health workers, and the area councils. The level of significance was set at a P value <0.05.

Results:

The results revealed general improvements in the key quality indicators of timeliness and completeness of RI data post-intervention. There were significant improvements in timeliness (F-ratio 5.35 (P < 0.05) and completeness (F-ratio 10.65 (P < 0.05) of submission of RI data following the intervention.

Conclusion:

The study has demonstrated the effectiveness of improving RI data quality through implementation research for evidence-informed decision-making toward effective coverage of immunization programs.
Priority Setting of Implementation Research Questions to Strengthen Immunization Data Systems for Equitable Immunization Coverage in Nigeria
Authors: Onwujekwe O , Mbachu CO , Agu IC
Published: June 2023

ABSTRACT

Aim:

This paper presents stakeholders’ prioritization of implementation research questions for strengthening immunization data systems and improving immunization coverage in Nigeria.

Methods:

The methods used were document review and stakeholder consultation workshop. Twenty-four routine immunization stakeholders from the six geopolitical zones in Nigeria and the federal level participated in the workshop. A modified nominal group technique was used to generate a list of implementation research questions, which were then ranked in order of importance on a five-point Likert scale. There were two rounds of ranking based on six criteria—answerability, feasibility, affordability, potential for translation, ethics, and potential for impact. The mean of criteria scores was calculated for each question.

Results:

A comprehensive list of 81 priority research questions was generated. Their scores ranged from 154 to 253 in the first round of ranking, and from 106 to 260 in the second round. The top three research priorities for strengthening immunization data and information systems in Nigeria are (i) How can poor data management and utilization for decision-making be minimized? (ii) How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected immunization data and information systems, and what strategies can be used to mitigate the effect of the pandemic on immunization coverage and data systems? (iii) How can training and retraining in data management be made feasible and available at the local government level for immunization and M&E officers?.

Conclusion:

This process resulted in the identification of high-priority research questions that would generate relevant evidence for improving routine immunization data and information systems in Nigeria.
Relativizing characterizations of Anosov subgroups, I (with an appendix by Gregory A. Soifer)
Authors: Kapovich Michael , Leeb Bernhard
Published: June 2023

We propose several common extensions of the classes of Anosov subgroups and geo- metrically finite Kleinian groups among discrete subgroups of semisimple Lie groups. We relativize various dynamical and coarse geometric characterizations of Anosov subgroups given in our earlier work, extending the class from intrinsically hyperbolic to relatively hyperbolic subgroups. We prove implications and equivalences between the various relativizations.
Prevalence, Characteristics, and Outcomes Associated with Acute Kidney Injury among Adult Patients with Severe Dengue in Mainland China
Authors: Wang Changtai , Hong Wenxin , Ou Zhiyue , Yang Huiqin , Zhao Lingzhai , Zhang Zhenhua , Zhang Fuchun
Published: June 2023

Acute kidney injury (AKI) can occur in adult patients with severe dengue (SD) and have serious clinical outcomes. This study aimed to determine the prevalence, characteristics, risk factors, and clinical outcomes of AKI in adult patients with SD; the correlation of dengue virus (DENV) serological and virological profiles with AKI; and the clinical features of patients with severe AKI who received renal replacement treatment (RRT). This multicenter study was conducted in Guangdong Province, China, between January 2013 and November 2019. A total of 242 patients were evaluated, of which 85 (35.1%) developed AKI and 32 (13.2%) developed severe AKI (stage 3). Patients with AKI had a higher fatality rate (22.4% versus 5.7%; P < 0.001) and longer length of hospital stay (median: 13 versus 9 days; P < 0.001). Independent risk factors for AKI were hypertension (odds ratio [OR]: 2.03; 95% CI: 1.10–3.76), use of nephrotoxic drugs (OR: 1.90; 95% CI: 1.00–3.60), respiratory distress (OR: 4.15; 95% CI: 1.787–9.632), high international normalized ratio (INR) levels (OR: 6.44; 95% CI: 1.89–21.95), and hematuria (OR: 2.12; 95% CI: 1.14–3.95). There was no significant association between DENV serological and virological profiles and the presence or absence of AKI. Among patients with severe AKI, those who received RRT had a longer length of hospital stay and similar fatality rate. Hence, adult patients with SD should be closely monitored for the development of AKI to enable timely and appropriate therapy.
Malaria-Related Psychosocial Factors, Past Antenatal Care–Seeking Behaviors, and Future Antenatal Care–Seeking Intentions by Maternal Age in Malawi and Democratic Republic of the Congo
Authors: Olapeju Bolanle , Bride Michael , Gutman Julie R. , Butts Jessica K. , Malpass Ashley , McCartney-Melstad Anna , Van Lith Lynn M. , Rodriguez Katie , Youll Susan , Mbeye Nyanyiwe , Ntoya Ferdinand , Lankhulani Sosten , Mpata Florence , Babalola Stella
Published: June 2023

Young women in sub-Saharan Africa are a group at increased risk for malaria in pregnancy. Early antenatal care (ANC) seeking makes it more likely that women will receive the recommended doses of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria in pregnancy. This study used data from national Malaria Behavior Surveys conducted in Malawi and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in 2021 to explore the association between intention to attend ANC in the first trimester for a future pregnancy (early ANC intention) and psychosocial factors among women aged 15–49 years. Eight psychosocial factors related to ANC and based on the ideation model were included, including knowledge, attitudes, and self-efficacy. The study used multivariable logistic regression models controlling for demographic characteristics to evaluate associations between early ANC intention and the individual ideational factors and the composite measure. Analysis included 2,148 women aged 15–49 years (Malawi: 827, DRC: 1,321). Antenatal care ideation was lower among young (aged 15–20 years) than among older (aged 21–49 years) women in Malawi. Young mothers with higher ANC ideation were more likely to intend to attend ANC early in their next pregnancy in both countries. Specific ideational factors associated with intention to attend ANC early varied by country and included positive attitudes, knowledge of ANC, and positive self-efficacy. In Malawi and the DRC, youth-friendly social and behavior change interventions to increase ANC-related ideation could increase future early ANC attendance among young women to improve malaria and birth outcomes.
Ion Current Sensing as Combustion Diagnostics for a Spark-Ignited Natural Gas-Hydrogen Engine
Authors: Salim Naqib , Beltaifa Youssef , Kettner Maurice , Loose Oliver , Weißgerber Tycho , Züfle Michael , Pöhlmann Klaus , Berlet Peter
Published: June 2023

The use of hydrogen as an alternative fuel to power cogeneration gas engines has been a research topic over the last few decades and has currently gained importance, even more due to current circumstances related to decarbonisation efforts for the energy supply. A significant part of the research done is focused on the topic of combustion diagnostics, which can be fulfilled through different methods. This work investigates the feasibility of the ion current sensing for a pure hydrogen fueled series natural gas cogeneration engine. For this purpose, a variation of the fuel composition (from 100% natural gas to 100% hydrogen) was carried out while maintaining the indicated mean effective pressure (IMEP) and the combustion phasing (CA50). This demonstrated that the efficiency increased monotonically as the hydrogen concentration rose. Simultaneously, the duration of the ion current signals gradually dropped but was still detectable at 100% hydrogen combustion. Signals from the spark ignition interfered with the measureable ion current during the actual combustion. To further investigate this effect, a second series of experiments was conducted, where the duration of the spark ignition was varied. The results show, that a spark duration of 500 μs is sufficient to ignite a combustion with pure hydrogen and the ion current measured matches characteristic ion current signals of an engine combustion.
Knowledge of the Phase is Crucial for the Analysis of All Dynamic Hydraulic Systems
Authors: Lenz Thomas A. , Sander Christian , Kulzer André , Bargende Michael
Published: June 2023

For metrological traceability of pressure sensors, static calibration procedures are standard. If these sensors are used in dynamic systems, unexpected phenomena or deviations occur in the recorded signal characteristics. By setting up a dynamic pressure calibration facility, it is possible to investigate this dynamic behavior and learn about the interactions between sensor and investigated system. To be able to identify the disturbing influences and interactions occurring during calibration and in subsequent measurement use, it is necessary to increase the existing understanding of the system. In the context of the contribution, the calibration procedure used, its properties such as repeatability, reproducibility as well as the system interaction of the influencing variables are analyzed. Special attention is paid to the effects of varying gas content in the calibration medium, its influence on the system and on the observed phenomena occurring. By varying the system parameters, while keeping an eye on shock amplitude and gradient, the hypotheses suspected in prior publications can be confirmed. Observing the influences of signal processing and sensor geometry on the shape of pressure traces clearly shows the complexity of interactions of the system components. All performed measurements impressively demonstrate the need to separate the influences in dynamically excited pressure-carrying systems, to better understand their causes, and thus to be able to perform precise sensor classification and calibration. Using a setup for dynamic calibration of pressure sensors, the article discusses a variety of phenomena of multiphase hydraulic systems and provides detailed insights into fluid mechanical relationships.
3DCFD-Modeling of a Hydrogen Combustion-Process with Regard to Simulation Stability and Emissions
Authors: Dafis Aristidis , Rottengruber Hermann , Jochmann Paul
Published: June 2023

In the context of the energy transition, CO2-neutral solutions are of enormous importance for all sectors, but especially for the mobility sector. Hydrogen as an energy carrier has therefore been the focus of research and development for some time. However, the development of hydrogen combustion engines is in many respects still in the conception phase. Automotive system providers and engineering companies in the field of software development and simulation are showing great interest in the topic. In a joint project with the industrial partners Robert Bosch GmbH and AVL Germany, combustion in a H2-DI-engine for use in light-duty vehicles was methodically investigated using the CFD tool AVL FIRE®. The collaboration between Robert Bosch GmbH and the Institute for Mobile Systems (IMS) at Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg has produced a model study in which model approaches for the combustion of hydrogen can be analyzed. Plausibility checks and a validation of the models with measurement data were carried out for the resulting models. The major advantage of a hydrogen combustion engine is its potential CO2 neutrality. However, with the goal of climate neutrality and compliance with criteria pollutant emission legislation, an investigation of exhaust emissions was necessary. Due to the very high temperatures during the combustion, in locally rich areas within the combustion chamber nitrogen oxides (NOx) are produced. The formation process of NOx in the H2-Air mixture was therefore investigated and modelled by simulation. A further aim is to provide the necessary data for a variation of the operating point in order to be able to achieve a more precise NOx prediction with simulation models.
Lightweight Potential and Crash Performance of Friction Stir Welded Tailored Blanks
Authors: Bachmann Maximilian , Stöckl PhD Johannes , Riedmüller PhD Kim Rouven , Liewald Mathias
Published: June 2023

Previous research papers presented methods for joining different aluminium or steel sheets of the same thickness using the friction stir welding process with flat tools. A novel variant of the friction stir welding process has been developed by the Materials Testing Institute of the University of Stuttgart, enabling the joining of aluminium and steel sheets of different thicknesses in order to further increase the lightweight potential of sheet metal components. Compared to the conventional welding method, the difference of this method relates to the stir welding tool used, which consists of a stepped welding pin and allows combined lap-and-butt joints to be produced. In this context, this paper aims to demonstrate the lightweight potential and the crash performance of Tailor Welded Blanks (TWBs) made from DX54(1 mm) and AL6016 - T4 (2 mm). For this purpose, the first step was to identify possible parts of car body structures that could be replaced by components made from these TWBs. Subsequently, these parts were constructively integrated into the selected structures, which were finally used to perform crash simulations with front and side impacts. To demonstrate the benefits of the new joining technology, the calculated crash results were compared with those of the conventional car body structures and the advantages of the used TWBs were highlighted. Concretely, the friction stir welded TWBs enabled the vehicle weight to be reduced while providing comparable properties to those of currently used components, thus lowering CO2 emissions during car use.