bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Vision Impairment in Glaucoma: Current Scenario
Authors: Singh Mamta , Mishra Deepak , Sinha Bibhuti Prassan , Mishra Sujeet Kumar 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Glaucoma is the third most common cause of blindness in the world. It affects nearly 12 million Indians, causing blindness in 1.5 million of them. Every eighth Indian over the age of 40 year is either at risk or is suffering from glaucoma. Although primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) is more prevalent in India, blindness is more common due to primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG). The prevalence of blindness caused by POAG varies from 1.5% to 11.1%, while that caused by PACG varies from 5.9% to 20%. This causes an irreversible loss of vision and has a huge psycho-somatic and financial impact on the patient’s life. It decreases the overall quality of life. The key to preventing glaucoma blindness lies in creating awareness in the community toward this disease and early case detection and treatment. More than 90% of Indian glaucoma patients are unaware of the type and severity of their condition. Glaucoma has been recognized as a priority disease in the National Health Mission (12th five-year plan) by the Government of India. A cost-effective, combined community-based mass screening for all blinding diseases, along with clinic-based opportunistic screening, particularly of “at-risk” population and the use of portable newer diagnostic tools and software, can increase the efficacy of these screening programs. A focused training program for healthcare professionals at the primary, secondary, and tertiary levels will not only increase the accuracy of glaucoma diagnosis but also reduce the overdiagnosis and overtreatment of these patients. Preparation of a cost-effective and convenient module of treatment customized for our country, supporting the ocular, physical, and emotional wellness of patients is a crucial step of its management.
Micronutrient needs in critically Ill children undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy and protein requirements in acute kidney injury patients
Authors: Demirkol Demet , Cortina Gerard , Deep Akash 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Nutrition is one of the cornerstones in the treatment and support of critically ill patients. Nutritional support includes the provision of calories, protein, electrolytes, vitamins, and trace elements through enteral or parenteral routes. Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common problem in critically ill patients and can lead to severe consequences, impacting metabolism and nutritional status significantly. Furthermore, regardless of the modality used, renal replacement therapy (RRT) has profound effects on metabolism. Evidence on nutritional support during continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) is limited, and there are no established clinical guidelines for nutritional adaptations during CRRT in critically ill patients. This review outlines some essential principles for providing micronutrient support in critically ill patients undergoing CRRT and protein requirements in AKI patients.
Clinical evaluation of AYUSH-SL in patients receiving mass drug administration for the treatment of chronic inflammatory lymphedema, a double blind, placebo controlled, multicentric study
Authors: Mitra Achintya , Bhuyan Gurucharan , Muralikrishna C , Naser SM , Ratha KK , Babu G , Venkateswarlu B , Dhoke Sujata , Bagchi Chiranjib , Singh Renu , Tripathi Arunabh , Rana Rakesh , Sharma BS , Khanduri Shruti , Gupta Bharti , Rao BCS , Kumar Adarsh , Padhi MM , Srikanth N , Dhiman KS , Tripathi K Santanu 
Published: December 2024

Background & objectives:
A 2.5-year placebo controlled double blind trial was conducted to investigate the safety and efficacy of AYUSH- SL, a poly- herbal Ayurvedic formulation on filarial lymphedema in different endemic areas of India. Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is caused by parasitic nematodes from Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, or B. timori that are transmitted through mosquitoes. In Ayurveda, LF has been elaborately narrated under the heading Shlipada, and the literature also includes detailed therapeutic measures.

Methods:
The multicenter, prospective, parallel group interventional study of a total of 180 participants were recruited within the duration through competitive enrollment. Diagnosed cases of grade I and grade II filarial lymphedema of Grade I and Grade II (lower extremities) were included in the trial. The study group was treated with MDA and AYUSH-SL or its placebo tablet.

Results:
The control group had received MDA and a matching placebo. The primary outcome measure was the reduction in edema calculated for analysis by percentage reduction from baseline at the 4th, 12th and 24th week. Secondary outcome measures included improved quality of life (QoL), which was assessed using the Lymphatic Filariasis Specific QoL Questionnaire, and prevention of recurrence of acute episodes, which was evaluated by investigating the presence and severity of episodes in the past 4 weeks. The water displacement method for the evaluation of the efficacy of the intervention was shown to be highly significant compared to the baseline value (right leg; 3071.60 ± 970.482, 2828.40±829.339, p<0.001and Left leg; 3158.69 ± 1136.391, 2890.73 ±1077.475, p<0.001).

Interpretation & conclusion:
There was significant improvement of Quality of Life in the LF QoL Questionnaire (p <0.001) at each follow-up visit in both groups. Safety estimations on hematologic and biochemical parameters were within limits and or changes were not significant. The results revealed that AYUSH- SL is safe and effective for FL due to its comprehensive anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-allergic activities.
Thermal Modeling of Large Format Prismatic Lithium-Ion Cell – A Comparative Study
Authors: M Abhishek , Napa Nagaraju , Agrawal Manish Kumar , Tamma Bhaskar , Garg Akhil 
Published: December 2024

<div class="section abstract"><div class="htmlview paragraph">Lithium-ion batteries are one of the prominent energy storage devices that can store electrical energy in the form of chemical energy and release it as required. During their operation, Lithium-ion batteries generate heat that needs to be removed to ensure their optimum performance and safety. A prior knowledge of heat generation rates can help design efficient thermal management systems. Numerical models are quite successful in estimating the heat generation inside Lithium-ion cells. In the present study, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model is developed to estimate the heat generation and temperature distribution within a 30 Ah Prismatic Lithium-ion cell using two modelling approaches namely, the Newman, Tiedemann, Gu, and Kim (NTGK) model and the Pseudo 2-Dimensional (P2D) model. The NTGK model, known for its robust representation of electrochemical and thermal aspects is evaluated against the P2D model while providing a detailed explanation of the battery's internal states and interactions. Both models are implemented to simulate the thermal behavior under varying operating conditions such as different discharge rates (2C, 5C) at <i>T<sub>amb</sub></i> = 25<sup>°</sup><i>C</i>, and coolant flow (natural and forced convection). The results indicate that the computationally less intensive NTGK model provides a reasonable approximation of temperature distribution and thermal gradients, making it suitable for real-time applications and large-scale simulations. Conversely, the computationally expensive P2D model offers more precise insights into the internal thermal and potential hotspots, necessary for advanced design and optimization. This comparative analysis highlights the tradeoff between model complexity and accuracy associated with these modelling approaches and guides towards the selection of appropriate thermal management strategies for battery cooling applications.</div></div>
Caractérisation de la flore ligneuse du campus socio-pédagogique de l’Université Cheikh Anta Diop (UCAD), de Dakar (Sénégal)
Authors: Sy Thierno Bachir , Deme Mamoudou , Dieng Sara Danièle , Badiane Sidia Diaouma , Gueye Mathieu 
Published: December 2024

Cette étude porte sur la caractérisation de la flore ligneuse du campus de l'Université Cheikh Anta Diop de Dakar. À travers un inventaire systématique, 8079 individus appartenant à 128 espèces, réparties en 46 familles, ont été recensés. Les espèces les plus représentatives étaient : Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC. (16%), Azadirachta indica A. Juss. (12%), Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC.) K.Heyne (11%) et Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth. (10%). En outre, l'analyse de la répartition des espèces a révélé une prédominance des espèces pantropicales et africaines. La structure du peuplement montre la prédominance de la classe de hauteur de 5-10 m avec 48% et celle de circonférence de 51 cm-100 cm avec 49% des arbres. Les indices de diversité confirment la richesse spécifique de la flore du campus. Enfin, l'évaluation de l'état de santé a indiqué que la grande majorité des arbres étaient sains. Ces résultats fournissent des indications déterminantes pour la gestion et la préservation de ce peuplement urbain. Ils relèvent le défi de la conservation des espèces autochtones et de la promotion de la diversité spécifique pour garantir la durabilité à long terme des écosystèmes urbains.

Characterization of woody flora in the socio-pedagogical campus of Cheikh Anta Diop University (UCAD), Dakar (Senegal)This study characterizes the woody flora on the campus of Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar. Through a systematic inventory, 8079 individuals belonging to 128 species, divided into 46 families, were counted. The most representative species were : Prosopis juliflora (Sw.) DC. (16%), Azadirachta indica A. Juss (12%), Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC.) K.Heyne (11%) and Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth (10%). Analysis of species distribution also revealed a predominance of pantropical and African species. The stand structure shows the predominance of the 5-10 m height class with 48% and the 51 cm-100 cm circumference class with 49% of trees. Diversity indices confirm the specific richness of the campus flora. Finally, the health assessment showed that the vast majority of trees were healthy. These results provide decisive indications for the management and preservation of this urban stand. They raise the challenge of conserving native species and promoting specific diversity to guarantee the long-term sustainability of urban ecosystems.
Evaluation de la consommation des fruits de <i>Scyphocephalium ochocoa</i>, des écorces de Hua gabonii et des amandes de <i>Irvingia gabonensis</i> consommés par les populations de la Lékoumou et de la Sangha au Congo
Authors: Elenga Michel , Massamba Stève Moulengo , Zebita Gedellevie Ryssie Miantoko , Mananga Vital , Okouango Yvon Simplice Itoua 
Published: December 2024

L’objectif de cette étude consistait d'évaluer la consommation des fruits de Scyphocephalium ochocoa, des écorces de Hua gabonii et des amandes de Irvingia gabonensis dans les départements de la Lékoumou et de la Sangha. À cet effet, une enquête de consommation a été réalisée sur le mode, le motif, les plats et la fréquence de consommation. Cette étude a révélé que les populations auprès desquelles l’enquête a été menée étaient en majorité jeunes. Elles étaient composées en majorité des femmes et vivaient pour la plupart en union libre, à l’exception de celles de Ouesso qui étaient majoritairement célibataires. Leur fonction principale était l’agriculture, bien que dans la plupart des cas à Ouesso, ils fussent élèves. La plupart des enquêtés consommaient ces condiments cuits dans un repas, car cela améliorait le goût. Malheureusement, ils étaient consommés saisonnièrement en raison de la rareté des espèces, bien qu’à Ouesso, leur consommation est plus fréquente au cours de la semaine. Ainsi, les résultats ont mis en évidence l’importance de ces condiments dans l’amélioration de la qualité organoleptique des régimes alimentaires des populations de la Lékoumou et de la Sangha.

Evaluation of the consumption of fruits of Scyphocephalium ochocoa, Hua gabonii and almonds of Irvingia gaboninsis consumed by the populations of Lékoumou and Sangha in Congo
The aim of this study was to evaluate the consumption of Scyphocephalium ochocoa fruits, Hua gabonii bark, and Irvingia gabonensis kernels in the departments of Lékoumou and Sangha. To this end, a consumption survey was conducted regarding the manner, reasons, dishes, and frequency of consumption. The study revealed that the majority of the surveyed populations were young, predominantly composed of women living in commonlaw unions, except in Ouesso where they were mostly single. Their primary occupation was agriculture, although in most cases in Ouesso, they were students. Most respondents consumed these condiments cooked in meals because it enhanced the taste. Unfortunately, they were consumed seasonally due to species rarity, though in Ouesso, their consumption is more frequent during the week. Thus, the results underscored the importance of these condiments in enhancing the organoleptic quality of diets among the populations of Lékoumou and Sangha.
Assessment of Novel Food Galacto-Oligosaccharides (Oligomate ®55N) for a Change to the Conditions of Use in Food Supplements (RP1770)
Authors:   Food Standards Agency,   Food Standards Scotland
Published: December 2024

Yakult Pharmaceutical Industry Co., Ltd (“the applicant”) submitted a novel food application for the authorisation of a change to the conditions of use of galacto-oligosaccharides as a novel food (product trade name Oligomate ®55N) in food supplements to each nation of Great Britain in October 2022. Galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) have been the subject of several prior applications in the EU, under Regulation (EC) 258/97 applicable to GB. Oligomate ®55N, a ≥55% GOS containing product, was authorised in the EU (and UK) in 2013 following an opinion through the substantial equivalence process of Regulation (EC) 258/97 by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) (FSAI 2013). GOS are currently authorised for use in several food and drinks categories for the general population including infant and baby food and formulas and food supplements. This application seeks to modify the conditions of use in food supplements at a higher maximum intake level than currently authorised. GOS are a source of non-digestible prebiotic fibre. GOS are manufactured by enzymatic conversion of milk lactose by two β-galactosidase enzymes produced from yeast strains: Sporobolomyces singularis and Kluyveromyces lactis and then purified into a syrup (≥55% GOS by dry weight). This change to the conditions of use of the GOS novel food ingredient had its application for authorisation assessed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which was published in January 2021. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) have reviewed the information available, including the EFSA opinion, and confirmed that GOS are safe under the proposed change to the conditions of use. The anticipated intake levels and use in food supplements were not considered to be nutritionally disadvantageous. This safety assessment represents the opinion of the FSA and FSS.
Safety Assessment of UV-treated Agaricus Bisporus Mushroom Powder With Increased Vitamin D2 as a Novel Food for Use in Food and Food Supplements (RP1550)
Authors:   Food Standards Agency,   Food Standards Scotland
Published: December 2024

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) and Food Standards Scotland (FSS) received an application from Monterey Mushrooms, LLC (“the applicant”) for the authorisation of UV-treated Agaricus bisporus Mushroom Powder with increased vitamin D2 as a novel food in April 2022. The novel food is an ingredient produced by the exposure of A. bisporus mushrooms to ultraviolet light which catalyses the conversion of endogenous ergosterol within the mushrooms to vitamin D2. The mushrooms are then dehydrated and ground into a powder. The novel food contains vitamin D2 content ranging between 125-463 μg/g and is intended to be used as ingredient to achieve a maximum dose of vitamin D2 of 2.25 μg/100 g for food products, and 1.125 μg/100 mL for beverages. In food supplements the proposed maximum dose of vitamin D2 is 15 μg/day in food supplements for the general population older than 1 year of age and at 10 μg/day in food supplements for infants from 7 to 11 months. To support the FSA and FSS in their evaluation of the application, the Advisory Committee on Novel Foods and Processes (ACNFP) were asked to review the safety dossier and supplementary information provided by the applicant. The views of the Committee were taken into account by the FSA and FSS who concluded that the applicant had provided sufficient information to assure the novel food, UV-treated A. bisporus Mushroom Powder with increased vitamin D2, was safe under the proposed conditions of use. The anticipated intake levels and the intended use in food and food supplements was not considered to be nutritionally disadvantageous. This safety assessment represents the opinion of the FSA and FSS.
The Legal Framework for B.O.T. Contracts in Egypt and the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Aboelazm Karem Sayed , Tawakol Fady , Ibrahim Emad , Ramadan Saad Ali 
Published: December 2024

Objective: This paper sheds light on the legal nature of B.O.T. contracts in light of the distinction between administrative contracts, private law contracts, and international investment contracts. The paper also provided an analysis of the B.O.T. contract and the different types of this type of public-private partnership contract.

Theoretical Framework: The paper also aimed to analyze the legal frameworks regulating contracting with the B.O.T. system in Egypt and the United Arab Emirates. In addition, it will examine the constitutional framework for concession contracts in general and B.O.T. contracts. Considering this, the study relied on descriptive and analytical approaches. The study found that multiple laws in Egypt regulate and govern contracting with the B.O.T. system in the fields of roads, airports, electricity, and railways. In the United Arab Emirates, one law regulates contracting with the B.O.T. system in all fields.

Method: In this research, we relied on the descriptive analytical method as a fundamental approach in monitoring and analyzing the concept of B.O.T. contracts. The content analysis approach was also relied upon in analyzing the legal and constitutional texts governing the contract of obligation in its traditional and modern sense, represented by the B.O.T. contract.

Results and Discussion: Considering the contracts of public utility obligations under the B.O.T. system as administrative contracts, the disputes that arise regarding these contracts are subject to the jurisdiction of the administrative judiciary of the State Council.

Research Implications: The contract for the concession of public facilities to the B.O.T. system is an administrative contract under what has been established in jurisprudence, as well as by what is stipulated in the law of the State Council, as this contract is considered a contract of concession, but in an advanced form of it.

Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by explaining the legal framework for BOT contracts in the comparative context.
Consumers Awareness and Attitude towards Sustainable Practices of 5-Star Category Hotels of Mumbai
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Balkawade Amol 
Published: December 2024

Background: Hotels have embraced a number of green initiatives in response to growing environmental concerns and the worldwide movement towards sustainable development. However, customer awareness and attitudes towards these practices play a major role in the success of these projects. Objective: To examine the consumer awareness level towards sustainable practices exercised in 5-star category hotels of Mumbai and the consumers attitude towards sustainable practices exercised in these hotels. Methodology: The goals of the current study were achieved through the use of descriptive design. The information was gathered from guests who had stayed at Mumbai’s five-star hotels and came from all across India. Convenience sampling was the approach employed in this study to obtain data. A total of 270 respondents were given the questionnaire; 165 of them completed it, and 156 of those answers were deemed legitimate. The main tool used to collect data is the structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics namely frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation were calculated Microsoft excel was used for the data analysis. Results: The mean scores indicate varying levels of awareness, with energy conservation initiatives having the highest mean of 3.44 (SD = 1.56) and community engagement and support the lowest at 2.57 (SD = 1.31). The analysis of consumer attitudes towards sustainable practices in 5-star hotels in Mumbai indicates a strong preference for eco-friendly accommodations. The highest mean score of 3.69 (SD = 1.33) was recorded for the preference for sustainable hotels, however, support for community engagement and educational initiatives was, 2.79 (SD = 1.36) and 2.72 (SD = 1.36), respectively. Conclusion: Consumer awareness of sustainable practices in 5-star hotels in Mumbai is strongest in areas like energy conservation, waste management, and water conservation, which are well-implemented and promoted. Consumer generally have a positive attitude towards sustainability initiatives, particularly those that are visible, like energy and water conservation. Others require enhanced visibility and engagement to elevate their perceived importance.
Designing financial products for non-banking institutions: Global perspectives and applications
Authors: Olafisayo Ogunbiyi-Badaru  , Olakunle Babatunde Alao  , Oritsematosan Faith Dudu  , Enoch O. Alonge  
Published: December 2024

Non-banking institutions (NBIs) are vital in promoting financial inclusion and addressing the needs of underserved populations worldwide. This paper explores the strategic design of financial products tailored to NBIs, highlighting their significance in global financial systems. It provides a comprehensive theoretical framework, discussing key concepts and economic principles that underscore the demand for specialized products. Global trends and challenges, including regional variations, regulatory complexities, and technological barriers, are examined alongside examples of innovative financial solutions. Strategic considerations for designing these products emphasize principles such as customization, affordability, and scalability, while leveraging technology, data analytics, and partnerships to enhance product innovation. The paper concludes by offering recommendations for policymakers, financial institutions, and non-banking entities to foster innovation, scalability, and equitable financial access. This study aims to provide actionable insights to strengthen the role of NBIs in creating inclusive and sustainable financial ecosystems.
Keywords: Non-Banking Institutions, Financial Inclusion, Tailored Financial Products, Technology-Driven Innovation, Global Financial Systems, Policy and Regulation.