bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nephroprotective effect of atorvastatin at a dose of 80 mg in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction with an invasive treatment strategy
Authors: Gavrilko A. D. , Mezhonov E. M. , Shalaev S. V. , Krasheninin D. V. 
Published: December 2023

Aim. To study the effectiveness of atorvastatin 80 mg, prescribed immediately prior emergency endovascular intervention, in reducing the incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) defined by сontrast-induced nephropathy (CIN) and by Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).Material and methods. The study included 386 patients with STEMI. Main group patients immediately prior to sheath insertion took atorvastatin at a high dose (80 mg). The control group was not prescribed statins before the intervention. In both groups, further statin therapy in the postoperative period was not regulated by the study protocol and was prescribed taking into account current guidelines. In order to equalize the groups according to the main clinical indicators, propensity score matching was carried out, as a result of which new comparison groups of 86 patients each were formed. In order to assess the nephroprotective properties, the following end points were selected: the incidence of AKI according to the CIN and KDIGO criteria, the frequency of serum creatinine level recovery to initial values on the 7th day.Results. In the study sample, the median glomerular filtration rate (GFR) on admission was 86,5 [70,0-97,0] ml/min/1,73 m2. There were 22 (12,7%) and 15 (8,7%) patients with GFR<60 ml/1,73 m2 at admission and kidney pathology, respectively. The median volume of contrast injected during coronary angiography (CAG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was 100 [90-200] ml, while there were 8 (4,7%) patients in whom the volume of contrast injected exceeded 3,7xGFR. In the group of patients receiving atorvastatin before the intervention, the incidence of AKI was significantly lower according to CIN criteria as follows: 9 (10,5%) vs 21 (24,4%) (p=0,016, odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence interval (CI) — 0,36 (0,16-0,85)), while in case of diagnosis according to KDIGO criteria there was no significant difference: 6 (7,0%) vs 13 (15,1%) (p=0,143, OR (95% CI) — 0,42 (0,15-1,17)).The frequency of serum creatinine level recovery to initial values on the 7th day was higher in the main group: 57 (66,3%) vs 43 (50,6%) (p=0,037, OR (95% CI) — 1,92 (1,04-3,56)). Inhospital mortality was higher in the control group: 6 (7,0%) vs 1 in the main group (1,2%) (p=0,120, OR (95% CI) — 0,17 (0,02-1,47)).Conclusion. The use of atorvastatin at a dose of 80 mg immediately before emergency coronary angiography in patients with STEMI, in comparison with the traditional statin prescription in the postoperative period, reduces the risk of AKI according to the CIN criteria, and also improves renal function.
BIBLIOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF SHARIAH COMPLIANT CAPITAL ASSET PRICING MODELS
Authors: Touti Nihal , Alaoui Taïb Asmâa 
Published: December 2023

This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of the literature on shariah compliant asset pricing based on Scopus-indexed publications. The data on publications are collected employing a search string encompassing various keywords related to Islamic finance and asset pricing. Simple statistical techniques are applied, complemented by the utilization of VOS viewer software to analyze document trends by year, country, source, and patterns of collaboration among authors, co-citations, and keywords co-occurrence. The bibliometric analysis reveals a proliferation of publications across 127 journals, with the Pacific Basin Finance Journal being the most prominent. Collaboration among authors spans 56 countries, with Malaysia emerging as a key contributor. Notably, keywords like "Islamic finance" and "Shariah-compliant" have seen increased importance in recent years. The statistical results demonstrate a substantial surge in Scopus-indexed publications related to Shariah-compliant compliant Capital Asset Pricing Models, particularly in the past five years, reflecting the growing popularity and research opportunities within Islamic finance and asset pricing.
Fatigue Life Assessment of A356 Aluminum Alloy used for Engine Cylinder Head
Authors: Angeloni Mauricio , Ruchert Cassius Terra , Pommier Sylvie 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

The main aim of this study is assessing fatigue resistance of casting A356 alloy for the manufacture of engine cylinder heads at high temperatures. Testing for isothermal and in-phase thermo-mechanical fatigue was conducted at 120ºC and 280ºC and from 120ºC to 280ºC, respectively. The fatigue crack growth rate was estimated, employing different waveforms under displacement and load control. The objective to perform the relaxation tests at temperatures ranging from 75oC to 280oC was to obtain further information for modeling. The results showed that casting defects and heterogeneities of the material in conjunction with long testing times at high temperatures and under different loading waveforms are critical factors in determining fatigue performance. These research findings will provide parameters for simulating the evolution of mechanical properties of the material under investigation under cyclic loadings at high temperatures, whether isothermal or thermo-mechanical, to later validate the crack propagation model proposed by Pommier and Risbet (2005).
Socially Vulnerable Communities and Green Stormwater Infrastructure planning in Washington D.C.
Authors: Park Minkyu , Whiteheart Rachel Marie , Alves Priscila Barros Ramalho , Hendricks Marccus 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
In the face of natural or manmade disasters, marginalized communities often bear disproportionate vulnerabilities, shaped by complex interplays of political, economic, demographic, and historical factors. This study employs the Pressure and Release (PAR) model to elucidate the roots of unequal resource distribution and varying vulnerability levels among communities. Focusing on Washington DC, the research delves into the social vulnerability of its Southeast communities through Pareto ranking and an additive model. Results reveal the advantages of Pareto ranking, emphasizing the intertwined nature of vulnerability factors. Concurrently, the study examines Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) programs, revealing their exclusionary practices. Drawing on environmental justice literature, the research connects socio-economic indicators to infrastructure disparities. The study hypothesizes that comprehensive social vulnerability contributes to the unequal distribution of both grey and green stormwater infrastructure. The findings underscore the urgency of addressing maintenance neglect and community exclusion within GSI practices.
Management of chocolate spot disease in faba bean plants by using biological control means
Authors: Ahmed Mohamed F.A. , Salem Emad A. , Mahmoud Mohamed A. , Shaheen Sabry I 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

This study was conducted in Nubaria city, EL-Behira Governorate, Egypt, during two winter growing seasons (2021/22 and 2022/23) to estimate the efficiency of different antagonists — Trichoderma album, T. atrovirde, T. hamatum and T. harzianum (30x106 spore/ml), as well as with the two commercial biocide products, including Blight Stop and Bio Zeid in controlling chocolate spot of bean plants on a naturally infected farm that has a history of high infection with the fungus Botrytis fabae, which causes brown spot disease which causes a decrease in productivity. In vitro, T. atroviride significantly caused the highest reduction of mycelial growth being 90.00 % followed by T. harzianum (86.67 %) and T. T. album (83.89%) on the average. In vivo, all tested antagonists significantly reduced disease incidence and severity of Botrytis fabae in both seasons 2021/22 and 2022/23. T. atroviride showed the highest efficacy bioagent (73.55 and 85.15%) followed by T. harzianum (72.55 and 81.22%) in controlling B. fabae of faba bean plants during two seasons 2021/22 and 2022/23, respectively. In addition, the results also showed that all tested bio-inducer treatments had an impact on yield components and increased levels of chlorophyll, protein%, phenols, flavonoids, peroxidase (PO), polyphenoloxidase (PPO), chitinase, and -1, 3-glucanase activities compared to control treatment in both seasons. In this regard, Spraying T. atroviride showed the highest efficacy bioagent followed by T. harzianum. On the other hand, T. hamatum showed the lowest efficacy in comparison with control treatment during the two growing seasons.
Estimating Tax Effort: New Evidence from a Heterogeneous Panel
Authors: Hayruni Tatul , Minasyan Gevorg , Nurbekyan Armen 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

We provide new evidence on countries’ tax effort based on a self-constructed heterogeneous panel of 114 countries, covering the period from 1995 to 2020. We apply the stochastic frontier model of Kumbhakar et al. (2014) to disentangle country-specific fixed effects from persistent and time-varying components of tax effort. This allows us to mitigate the misspecification bias of other studies that treat persistent effort as either individual heterogeneity or a time-varying phenomenon. Furthermore, we control for tax rate differences across countries, improving accuracy and interpretation of the previous estimates. We find that 1) the level of development, trade volume, education, income inequality, and the ease of tax collection are important determinants for tax collection; 2) countries with historically strong indicators of governance, rule of law, and control of corruption have a higher level of persistent effort; 3) there is a non-linear relationship between time-varying inefficiency and statutory tax rates.JEL Classification: H21, H22, H26, C23, G40
Dual-energy computed tomography quantitative parameter analysis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma cervical lymph node characteristics and prediction of radiotherapy sensitivity: A prospective study
Authors: Li Zhiru , Li Chao , Yang Dong , Wang Shuangyue , Song Junmei , Min Kang 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background and purpose Treatment efficacy may differ among patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) at a similar tumor–node–metastasis stage. Moreover, end-of-treatment tumor regression is a reliable indicator of treatment sensitivity. This study aimed to investigate whether quantitative dual-energy computer tomography (DECT) parameters can predict the sensitivity of neck-lymph node radiotherapy in patients with NPC. Materials and methods Overall, 549 lymph nodes were collected from 98 patients with NPC who underwent pretreatment DECT between September 2021 and December 2022. The patients were divided into complete response (CR) and partial response (PR) groups. Clinical characteristics and quantitative DECT parameters were compared between the groups, and the optimal predictive ability of each parameter was determined using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. A nomogram prediction model was constructed and validated using univariate and binary logistic regression analyses. Results The DECT parameters were higher in the CR group than in the PR group. Iodine concentration (IC), normalized IC, Mix-0.6, spectral Hounsfield unit curve slope, effective atomic number, and virtual monoenergetic images were significantly different between the groups. The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the DECT parameters was 0.637–0.71 (P < 0.001). The AUC value of the constructed model was 0.813, with a sensitivity and specificity of 85.56% and 81.25%, respectively. Conclusion Quantitative DECT parameters can potentially predict the sensitivity of radiotherapy to NPC. Therefore, DECT parameters and NPC clinical features can be combined to construct a nomogram with high predictive power and used as a clinical analytical tool.
Cereal production amidst fertilizer usage, cereal cropland area, and farm labor in Nigeria: A novel dynamic ARDL stimulations approach
Authors: Abdullahi Nazir Muhammad , Ibrahim Adamu , Ahmad Abubakar , Huo Xuexi 
Published: December 2023

Abstract
Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, and the basic foods for Nigerians are cereal crops, including maize, rice, sorghum, millet, and wheat. However, their productivity is significantly affected by population pressure, poor utilization of cropland, and fertilizers. Against this backdrop, this study examines the relationship between cereal production, cereal cropland area, fertilizer usage, and the rural population (farm labor). The study utilizes the novel dynamic autoregressive distributed lag stimulations (DYARDLS) model and analyzes annual time series data for Nigeria from 1980 to 2021. The results of the unit root test suggest that the chosen variables are stationary both at the level and in the first difference. Furthermore, the bound test affirms that all variables are cointegrated, with a significance level of 1%. The results from DYARDLS show that in the long run, a percentage change in rural population and cereal cropland area boosts cereal food production by 0.018% and 0.51%, respectively. Meanwhile, a 1% change in the food production index exacerbates cereal output by 0.25% in the long run and 1.06% in the short run. We also find that fertilizer consumption could improve cereal production in both the short and long run, but the results are insignificant. In conclusion, we demonstrate that our study variables are the decisive determining factors of cereal productivity and cannot be disregarded in the mission to attain food security.
JEL Codes: O13, O33
Identification of Genes related to Cervical Disc Degeneration and Immune Infiltration
Authors: Bei Dikai , Gan Kaifeng , Zhao Fengdong , Chen Binhui , li Jie 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to identify new diagnostic genetic-biomarkers for early-stage cervical intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) and analyze the potential association between key genes and infiltrating immune cells.
Methods: Cervical disc specimens were collected from anterior cervical discectomy and fusion surgery, which were classified into IDD and controlled group depending on MRI disc degeneration grade. mRNA expression profile data was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were determined from GEO database profile. Gene ontology (GO) functional annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) signaling pathway enrichment analysis were performed on DEGs. Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression model and Support Vector Machine Recursive Feature Elimination (SVM-RFE) algorithm were employed to screen for potential biomarkers. The composition of 22 immune cell fractions in IDD patients was analyzed using CIBERSORT. Biomarker expression levels in cervical disc specimens were detected through quantitative PCR.
Result: 71 DEGs were found, including 50 genes up-regulated and 21 genes down-regulated. KEGG pathway analysis revealed significant enrichment of inflammation-related pathways. Based on the results of two machine learning screening methods and validation in cervical disc specimens, CDKN3, SLC22A4, and SYDE1 were identified as key biomarkers for cervical IDD. Immune cell infiltration analysis showed significant differences, with higher rate of M0 macrophage and mast cell activation (P=0.004, P=0.004), and lower rate of T-cell CD8 and NK cell activation (P=0.045, P=0.024).
Conclusion: CDKN3, SLC22A4 and SYD1 are associated with the occurrence and progression of cervical IDD through the regulation of certain immune cells. Therefore, they have the potential to be the biomarkers for the diagnosis of cervical IDD and play a role in monitoring the progression of cervical IDD.
Strengthening accountability for TB policy implementation in South Africa: perspectives from policymakers, civil society and communities
Authors: Westhuizen Helene-Mari , Giddy Janet , Coetzee Renier , Makanda Goodman , Tisile Phumeza , Galloway Michelle , Bunyula Siyavuya , Schoeman Ingrid , Nathavitharana Ruvandhi R. 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Introduction Translating health policy into effective implementation is a core priority for responding effectively to the TB crisis. The TB Recovery Plan is a collection of national TB policies introduced in South Africa in response to the negative impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on TB care. We aimed to explore the implementation of the TB Recovery Plan and develop recommendations for strengthening accountability for policy implementation for this and future TB policies.Methods We interviewed 24 participants working on or impacted by TB policy implementation in South Africa that included perspectives from national and provincial policymakers, local policy implementers, civil society, and community perspectives. In-depth interviews were conducted in English and isiXhosa and we drew on reflexive thematic methods for analysis.Results Implementation of the TB Recovery Plan predominantly used a top-down approach to implementation (cascading from national policy to local implementors) but experienced bottlenecks at provincial level. Civil society organisations were concerned about the lack of provincial implementation data which impeded advocacy for better accountability. There was strong interest in community-led monitoring for local TB policy implementation from community representatives. Broader engagement on TB as a public health priority and on new policies in the development and implementation phases would be needed to facilitate that.Conclusion Communities affected by TB, with the support of civil society organisations, could play a bigger role in monitoring policy implementation at local level and need to be capacitated to do this. This bottom-up approach could complement existing top-down strategies and contribute to greater accountability for TB policy implementation.
Regression Predictive Models for Depth Temperature of Asphalt Layers in Iran
Authors: Sedighian-Fard Mohammad , Solatifar Nader 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Depth temperature of asphalt layers is one of the most predominant required factors for asphalt pavements analysis, design, maintenance, and rehabilitation purposes. In this study, using the results from field experiments in six asphalt pavement sites located in different climatic conditions in Iran, the depth temperature of asphalt layers was investigated. By employing the four well-known regression-based predictive models including, Gedafa et al., Albayati and Alani, BELLS, and Park et al., the depth temperatures of asphalt layers were predicted. Two statistical criteria, accuracy and bias, have been adopted for evaluating the performance and capability of these models in predicting the depth temperature of asphalt layers. Results exhibited a fair correlation between the predicted depth temperature values and those measured during the Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) testing. However, it is necessary to enhance the prediction accuracy and diminish its bias by calibrating the mentioned models for determining the depth temperature of asphalt layers in pavements in Iran. For this reason, these existing prediction models were calibrated, and new predictive models were developed. Performance evaluation and validation of the newly developed models showed an excellent correlation between predicted and measured values. In addition, results exhibit the capability of the developed models in predicting the depth temperature of asphalt layers with very good prediction precision (R2 = 0.94) and low predictive bias.
Aquatic Bird Predation by Antarctic and Subantarctic Pinnipeds Vagrants Off Argentina
Authors: Padula Antonella D. , Romero M. Alejandra , Machado Rodrigo , Rosenthal Alan F. , Dassis Mariela , Rodríguez Diego H. , Carlos Caio J. , Pon Juan Pablo Seco , Denuncio Pablo 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic pinnipeds are well-known seasonal visitors of the Southwest Atlantic Ocean. According to the literature, at their breeding grounds they feed mainly on a variety of fish, cephalopods, and crustaceans. During the non-breeding period and far away from its breeding colonies, little is known about their feeding habits. Here, we present records of predation on aquatic birds by Antarctic and Sub-Antarctic pinnipeds off northern Argentinian coast (37°27′ S, 57°06′ W to 41°50' S 65°02' W). We examined the gastrointestinal contents of 22 specimens by four pinnipeds species (Arctocephalus gazella [n = 10], A. tropicalis [n = 10] and Hydrurga leptonyx [n = 1]) collected from 1996 to 2023. Remaining of aquatic birds were found in the gastrointestinal tracts of three individuals (13.64%) of two A. gazelle and one H. leptonyx. We identified feathers, and other bird parts by comparing them to specimens from scientific collections and descriptions/illustrations from the literature. Two of the three aquatic birds found in the gastrointestinal tracts were most probably Magellanic Penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus); whereas the other one was a Great grebe (Podiceps major). To our knowledge, this is the first study reporting predation on aquatic birds by Antarctic pinnipeds far from their breeding colonies.
Determinants to compliance with food hygiene and safety practices among food handlers in boarding schools in Embu County, Kenya.
Authors:   Rosaline W. Kaugi*1, Alfred Owino Odongo2 and John G Kariuki3, Kaugi Rosaline 
Published: December 2023

Abstract

Background: Globally, and particularly in low- and middle-income countries, food-borne illnesses are a major public health concern. Mainly escalating the spread of food-borne illnesses are poor food hygiene practices. The purpose of this research was to assess the determinants of compliance with food hygiene and safety practices among food handlers in boarding schools in Embu County, Kenya.
Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study design was utilized. A sample size of 196 study respondents was calculated by the use of the Magnani formula. Multistage sampling was applied to select the study participants. STATA version 17 was employed for data analysis.
Results: In the multivariate analysis, factors associated with compliance with food hygiene and safety measures included sex(OR=2.2, 95% CI:1.1-4.6, p=0.028), age(OR=2.7, 95% CI:1.1-6.4, p=0.023), those who had previously had training on food safety(OR=2.0, 95% CI:1.0-4.0, p=0.046), monthly income(OR=3.0, 95% CI:1.2-7.3, p=0.015), and regular inspection by public health officials(OR=1.7, 95% CI:1.2-2.3, p=0.001. However, education level, marital status, and work experience were not associated with compliance with food hygiene and safety measures.
Conclusion: In the multivariate analysis, education, marital status, and work experience were not associated with compliance with food hygiene and safety measures while the presence of previous training on food safety, presence of regular inspection of food premises, age, gender, and income level were found to be significantly associated with compliance with food hygiene and safety measures.